asian cuisine – Jellybeans in the City

A sweeping yet affordable gastronomic journey at Marcelino Cafe, Manila Prince Hotel

If you happen to be in the old Manila area, you’re in for a real foodie treat!

Right in that historic vicinity, within the elegant ambiance of the Manila Prince Hotel lies Marcelino Café, an emerging culinary oasis thanks to its diverse array of dishes as well as a setting imbued with old world charm.

Want to know more about this erstwhile hidden dining destination? Read on, then!

An Ambiance of Nostalgia

Marcelino Café envelops its diners in an atmosphere of old-world nostalgia with a few modern touches. Floor-to-ceiling windows on the side facing the street are installed with water features provide a relaxing vibe while the windows on the opposite side showcase a serene view of the hotel’s pool area surrounded with lush greenery. The café’s expanded dining area boasts stylish decor and increased seating capacity, ensuring a comfortable and inviting space for diners.

A Gastronomic Journey Around the Globe

At Marcelino Cafe, you can let your taste buds take flight across a world of flavors. Indulge your taste for comfort and adventure across various stations.

Comfort

Appetizers. A selection of cold cuts, canapés, and refreshing salads to get you started.

Italian. Craft your own pasta dish according to your preference by choosing from three types of pasta (spaghetti, penne, and tagliatelle) and three types of sauces (alfredo, bolognese, and amatriciana).

Grillery. Choice cuts of freshly roasted chicken and roast beef paired with your favorite sauces.

Filipino. Pinoy cuisine classic dishes such kare-kare, lumpiang shanghai, and fried street food favorites plus a colorful array of kakanins (rice cakes) for a taste of traditional Filipino sweets.

Adventure

Japanese. Exotic flavors of Japan with a surprising sashimi selection featuring local fish such as tanigue and lapulapu, together with sushi rolls and classic favorites like shrimp tempura and pork katsu.

Asian. An eclectic array of dishes including Szechuan-style prawns, Mongolian bowl, Vietnamese pho, and Korean samgyupsal cooked to order, plus exotic offerings like Parrata, Papadum, and Chicken Satay for a taste of the diverse flavors of Asia.

Desserts. An indulgent assortment of sweets including mini cakes, rolls, puddings cookies and fresh fruits in season to satisfy every sweet craving.

The good news is that you can take advantage of Marcelino Café’s special group promo to treat your family and friends to this culinary journey. With every group of 5 paying guests, the 6th person feasts for free! Priced at Php999 nett per person (from regular rate of Php1,500 nett per person) for both lunch and dinner, this offer provides exceptional value for money. Plus, with blackout dates only on December 24 and 25, 2024, you have ample opportunity to gather your friends and family for a memorable dining experience.

Note: Buffet rate per child of 5 to 12 years old is Php499 nett. Kids 4 years old and below are free of charge.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to indulge take your taste buds on a tour across exquisite cuisine and create lasting memories at Marcelino Café.

For inquiries and reservations, please call +632 5328 2222, email fnb@manilaprince.com, or visit www.manilaprince.com.

Marcelino Cafe is located at Manila Prince Hotel, #1000 San Marcelino Street, Ermita, Manila near UN Square, and serves lunch buffet daily from 11.30am to 2.30pm and dinner buffet from 6pm to 10pm.

Keep updated on Marcelino Cafe’s menu and offers by visiting Manila Prince’s website or following the hotel on Facebook and Instagram.

Disclosure: Menu items were served at no charge in exchange for honest feedback and to facilitate this feature story.

A MAS PINASARAP anniversary foodie adventure at Seven Corners, Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria

A (not so) few years ago, my Significant Other and I decided to make it official and go through the adventure of married life together. The past several years had its ups and downs but they are always marked with significant milestones and great memories.

Well, these deserve to be celebrated in grand style, don’t they? So on our special day, Dear Hubby and I decided to go on a food adventure at Seven Corners, Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria’s renowned all-you-can-eat buffet restaurant.

A Warm Welcome and Stylish Ambiance

Upon arrival, we were greeted by the restaurant’s chic and contemporary interiors, a result of its recent renovation. The stylish lighting, sleek furniture, stunning view of the Ortigas business district from our window seat as well as the thoughtfully placed accent pieces all created an airy, refreshing vibe that set the tone for our evening.

Seven Corners, Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria

We arrived a bit early so we were able to witness the frenetic energy of the chefs and servers meticulously plating and staging the stations and dining areas, ensuring that the whole experience is not just a feast for the tastebuds, but for other senses as well.

Exploring the Seven Corners

Seven Corners got its name from its diverse culinary offerings from around the world, spread across seven unique stations. Each station beckoned with a promise of a gastronomic adventure, and we eagerly embarked on our culinary journey.

Salad Station. Fresh greens, sliced vegetables, and an assortment of dressings, nuts and cold cuts awaited.

Pizza & Pasta Station. Fragrant breads, flavorful spreads, charcuterie, cheeses and freshly made pastas and brick-oven pizzas.

Japanese Station. A variety of sushi rolls, freshly cut sashimi, and crispy tempura. Hubby was pleasantly surprised to discover that his favorite miso soup was also available.

Asian Station. The Asian station offered a variety of Chinese and Southeast Asian dishes, including a combination of mussels, oysters and shrimp cooked upon order in a garlicky sauce as well as a variety of noodles and add-ons for a customized bowl of heartwarming broth.

Western Station. Classic American and European dishes including grilled meats and Spanish dishes such as Rabo del Toro, Chicken ala Madrilena and Gambas al Ajillo. The US Ribeye Steak was a standout, grilled the way we want it and accompanied by a variety of sauces and seasonings to cater to our differing palates.

Filipino Station. In celebration of Philippine Independence Day, the restaurant has a dedicated Filipino station – MAS PINASARAP – that paid delightful homage to our heritage, and brought back fond memories of family gatherings, thanks to viands loved by Filpino historical luminaries such as Tinola, Pork Binagoongan, Bistek, Fish Escabeche, Pinakbet and Sisig Rice. Of course, the star of the show is the Lechon de Cebu, herb marinated suckling pig with crispy skin that gives way to tender and flavorful meat.

Dessert Station. No meal is complete without dessert, and the Dessert station did not disappoint. From miniature cakes and cookies to Filipino delicacies like puto bumbong, bibingka and suman, the variety was astounding. Plus, samalamig in the form of gulaman and melon drinks add more refreshing sweetness to the meal.

Standout Dishes and Unforgettable Moments

Throughout the evening, we were impressed by the restaurant’s commitment to quality and flavor. Signature dishes like the prime rib-eye steak and the Lechon de Cebu. The staff’s recommendations, including the especially featured Pinoy dishes like the Kesong Puti Pizza and kakanin desserts, ensured that we experienced the best Seven Corners had to offer while exploring homegrown flavors.

A Celebration to Remember

Our anniversary celebration at Seven Corners was more than just a meal; it was our journey together through a world of flavors, expertly curated and beautifully presented. The combination of world-class service, exquisite dishes, and a stylish, comfortable setting made for a memorable evening, worthy of our very special occasion.

For anyone looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy an exceptional dining experience, Seven Corners at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria is definitely the place to be.

Lunch buffet is served Mondays to Fridays from 11.30am to 2.30pm, and Saturdays to Sundays from 12 noon to 3pm at Php2,700 per person. Dinner buffet, on the other hand, is served daily from 6pm to 10pm at Php2,900 per person.

To make a reservation, call (+632) 8790-3100, Viber (+63) 927-1630128, or email mnlcp.7corners@ihg.com. Indulge in a culinary adventure that promises to be as memorable as the moments you celebrate.

Stay updated on its promos and offers by following Seven Corners on Facebook and Instagram.

Want to book your stay at Crowne Plaza Galleria? Call +63287903100 or email cpgm.reservations@ihg.com and mention my code IKOTHGEL to enjoy 15% discount on the best available rates. (Offer valid until December 31, 2024.)

Check out my previous posts about IHG Restaurants:

Rediscovering Chinese flavors at Xin Tian Di, Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria

Intimate celebrations at the newly renovated Summit Lounge in Holiday Inn Manila Galleria

Fabulous Asian feasts for fam and friends at Manila Ocean Park

The summer season brings with it awesome opportunities to explore the metro’s sights with your nearest and dearest while taking advantage of the myriad of delectable food choices that Manila has to offer.

Take Manila Ocean Park, for example. Not only is it the Philippines’ first world-class marine theme park and premiere educational entertainment destination, it also serves up a lot of great dining selections for a fabulous foodie adventure for fam and friends.

You won’t have to worry if you work up an appetite while visiting the park’s eight exciting attractions; you can easily and deliciously sate your appetite with these in-park restaurants.

Makan-Makan Asian Food Village

The park’s famous Asian fusion restaurant seeks to bring back authentic Asian flavors that Pinoys love, thanks to its recently revamped menu, carefully crafted to satisfy diverse palates while keeping to the spirit and culture behind every dish.

Whether you’re keen to fill the tummies of an entire family or just want to explore fresh tastes and textures of Asian cuisine, Makan Makan Asian Food Village should be right up your alley!

Makan Makan — **Laksa**. A spicy noodle dish prepared with a rich and spicy coconut curry soup that beautifully melds traditional spices with contemporary culinary techniques.

As if that array of mouthwatering dishes is not reason enough to hie yourself over to Makan Makan, the restaurant ups the ante with these irresistible promo offers!

Makan Makan Asian Food Village is located at the 2nd Floor, Hotel H2O, Manila Ocean Park Complex, Luneta, Ermita, Manila. For more details on its menu and offers, follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Shanghai Noodle & Porridge

At Shanghai Noodle & Porridge, innovation meets tradition as time-honored recipes combine with the freshest ingredients, crafting an tasty yet affordable culinary experience that transcends boundaries. And talk about fresh: noodles are here are made from scratch and pulled upon order in just 10 seconds, thanks to its noodle-making machine. At Php180/bowl, you’re all set for a dining escapade that’s quick, filling and flavorful.

Shanghai Noodle & Porridge is located at Ground Floor, Manila Ocean Park Complex (beside Taiwan Eating House), Luneta, Ermita, Manila.

Taiwan Eating House

Taiwan Eating House beckons you into a world of Taiwanese culinary delights, featuring beloved classics. Here, you can savor the rich tapestry of flavors that define the island’s culinary heritage as traditional recipes intertwine with contemporary twists.

Taiwan Eating House is located at Ground Floor, Manila Ocean Park Complex (beside Shanghai Noodle & Porridge), Luneta, Ermita, Manila.

Twist Treats

Nothing rounds off a summer adventure than some frozen sweets! Fortunately, Twist Treats’s signature Egg Waffle Overload (Php120 each), a marriage of crispy egg waffles with velvety ice cream topped with marshamallows, candy sprinkles and chocolate chips, hit the spot perfectly. Each loaded waffle is meticulously prepared to order, ensuring freshness.

Twist Treats is located at the entry of Manila Ocean Park Complex (beside the ticket booth), Luneta, Ermita, Manila.

So go ahead and take the time to go on summer outing with your kith and kin at Manila Ocean Park: enjoy itsfun and educational attractions, and be sure to treat your companions to tasty culinary delights while you’re there!

Know more about Manila Ocean Park’s attractions and food selections by following it on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok. Book your tickets now through its website.

Disclosure: I attended food tasting events held at the restaurants mentioned here. Food items were served at no cost in exchange for honest feedback and this feature.

Check out my previous posts about great eats at Manila Ocean Park:

Gourmet Food Trippin’ at Manila Ocean Park

HAPAG: Your destination for comforting Filipino food during your Manila Ocean Park adventure

Today’s your last chance to celebrate Chuseok with Ball Katsu’s Pick A Prize Promo!

As September draws to a close, so does the vibrant celebration of Chuseok, the Korean harvest festival. This annual event is a time for gratitude, togetherness, and indulgence in delectable Korean cuisine. If you haven’t seized the opportunity yet, there’s no better time than now to immerse yourself in the festivities and make the most of Ball Katsu’s Pick A Prize Promo.

Ball Katsu, a brainchild of the esteemed Korean chef Paik Jong Won, adds an exciting twist to the classic katsu by transforming it into delightful katsu balls. Before this month concludes, dive into the world of Korean flavors and savor the chance to win amazing prizes at Ball Katsu.

The Korean Twist: Explore Ball Katsu’s Innovative Katsu Balls

Visualize the traditional katsu – a succulent, crispy-on-the-outside yet juicy-on-the-inside pork cutlet. Now, imagine that same katsu, expertly shaped into charming, flavorful balls. That’s the magic of Ball Katsu.

Korean chef Paik Jong Won, renowned for his culinary ingenuity, took the beloved katsu and transformed it into delightful balls. Each ball encapsulates the flavors of katsu within a convenient, bite-sized form. It’s a fusion of textures and tastes that’s both unique and appetizing, adding a Korean twist to a well-loved classic.

A Delicious Korean Foodie Adventure at Ball Katsu

Located in Mega Fashion Hall’s Food Hall, Ball Katsu is your gateway to a yummy adventure. The unassuming setup might belie the gastronomic delights that await you, but don’t you worry, you’ll find a tantalizing array of options, including katsu balls, rice bowls, and curry rice dishes.

The katsu balls, of course, steal the spotlight. Each bite-sized sphere is a burst of flavor, showcasing the perfect harmony of tender meat and crispy coating. Ball Katsu launched its hottest flavor, the Hot Pepper Ball Katsu (Php159/pc), proving the versatility of these bite-sized delights!

For those seeking a heartier meal, the Regular Ball Katsu Rice Bowl (Php189) presents an equally satisfying experience.

The Cheese Ball Curry Rice (Php269), on the other hand, offer a comforting and aromatic journey through Korean flavors.

The Pick A Prize Promo: Seize the Last Moments of Excitement!

As the clock ticks towards midnight on September 30, 2023, seize the last chance to be part of the Pick A Prize Promo at Ball Katsu. Celebrate Chuseok as you savor the delectable katsu balls and potentially win incredible prizes.

Here’s how to join:

Make a minimum purchase of 350 pesos in a single transaction to qualify for the promo.
Like and follow Ball Katsu’s Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok Pages, and share the promo post.
Present a screenshot showing that you’ve followed and shared Ball Katsu’s social media pages.
Show the receipt as proof of purchase to the Ball Katsu staff.
After verification, pick a prize from the Ball Katsu Box/Bowl.
Each customer can avail of the promo once during the entire promo period.
Instant prizes can be redeemed on the same day or at the end of the promo period. Prizes are transferable but not convertible to cash.
Fill up the acknowledgment form for your prizes.
Staff will stamp the receipt to verify the promotion.

Make the Most of Chuseok: Hurry and Join Ball Katsu’s Celebration!

For Korean pop culture enthusiasts and food lovers alike, the last day of September is the last call to partake in this unique celebration. Chuseok is a time to immerse yourself in Korean traditions, and Ball Katsu offers not only a delightful gastronomic journey but also a chance to win exciting prizes through their Pick A Prize Promo. Don’t let this opportunity slip away; be part of the Chuseok festivities at Ball Katsu.

Ball Katsu is located at 5th Floor SM Mega Food Hall, SM Megamall, EDSA corner Doña Julia Vargas Avenue, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City.

Disclosure: I attended a food tasting event held at this restaurant. Food items were served at no cost in exchange for honest feedback and to facilitate this feature.

Savor Asian flavors at Hawker Lane, SM Megamall

If you’re craving for the bold flavors of Asian cuisine, Hawker Lane at the Eatogether Food Hall in SM Megamall should be right up your alley.

Inspired by the hawker centers in Singapore where tasty Asian dishes and more are sold from stalls inside these large food courts, Hawker Lane brings the the same vibrant colors, textures and flavors to its diners.

Together with fellow foodies last weekend, I headed to Eatogether Food Hall to sample some of its signature dishes which include:

Deep-fried Salt and Pepper Squid (Php290 ala carte | Php220 with rice). A Cantonese dish made with pieces of squid which are deep-fried and tossed in a mixture of garlic, ginger and hot peppers.

Fish Fillet Tofu Claypot (Php220 ala carte | Php180 with rice). Another authentic Chinese dish made with shallow-fried fish fillets braised together with tofu in a flavorful sauce and served in a claypot.

Crispy Fried Garlic Chicken (Php300 ala carte | Php240 with rice). Chinese-style crispy fried chicken infused with the flavor of garlic.

Theses dishes surely sated my cravings for bold tastes and textures!

Want to have your own taste of Asia? Drop by Hawker Lane!

This Hawker Lane branch is located at Eatogether Food Hall, Second Floor, Eatogether Food Hall, SM Megamall Building A, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City.

Another branch is located at Eatogether Food Hall, Second Floor, Unimart Supermarket, Oranbo, Pasig City.

Disclosure: I attended a food-tasting here together with fellow foodies. All food items mentioned here were served for us to sample the fare and elicit our honest feedback.

Check out my posts on other stalls at Eatogether Food Hall:

Best Asian fusion dishes from Bistro Charlemagne

Ever since I had my first taste of Bistro Charlemagne‘s celebrated dishes during a foodie meetup held at its Ayala Feliz branch two years ago, the restaurant has occupied a special place in my heart.

Then, the flavors my fellow foodies and I tasted were at once familiar and novel to our palates. This is because this high-end restaurant offers to its clientele a fusion of Asian and European cuisines.

I was also able to introduce this resto to Hubby and the kids, and a family favorite came to be. Bistro Charlemagne became our go-to restaurant for family celebrations, including birthdays and get-togethers with visiting relatives.

It was forced to pause its operations during the enhanced community quarantine but re-opened in the second half of the year for delivery. It was just in time for my daughter #ExhibitA’s birthday, who has declared Bistro Charlemagne as her favorite restaurant so I had some her favorite dishes delivered to our home for her birthday lunch.

As community quarantine restrictions have lessened, Bistro Charlemagne has also re-opened for dine-in service but with safety protocols in place.

I’m looking forward to dining in at Bistro Charlemagne soon. However, since my son #ExhibitB is below 18 years old and can’t enter malls, I decided to have our holiday lunch from Bistro Charlemagne delivered to our home for the whole family to enjoy.

Our family feast included:

Pares Rice (Php365). Slow-braised shredded beef shank with anise-sweet soy in fried rice topped with fried beef.

Japanese Beef Fried Rice (Php145). The fam’s favorite fried rice made with Japanese rice, ground beef, vegetables and egg.

Scallop Gratin (Php445). Baked bay scallops with garlic-chorizo cream sauce topped with cheese.

Golden 17 Chicken (Php375). Traditionally prepared soy chicken perfumed with an intricate blend of seventeen herbs and spices and served with yummy ginger sauce. Hubby discovered that its mild flavor is a perfect match with the Pares Rice.

Drunken Lengua in Brown Mushroom Sauce (Php445). Pan-seared ox tongue with mushrooms, asparagus and white wine. I’ve been raving about this dish for years now. It goes so well with the Japanese Fried Rice that these two dishes are my automatic orders.

Lengua in White Sauce (Php445). I decided to also introduce Bistro Charlemagne’s other lengua dish to the fam. Made with braised ox tongue with rich cream sauce and sautéed mushrooms. While this is an exceptional dish, the fam’s loyalty is still with our favorite Drunken Lengua.

The fam’s holiday lunch was so special because we were able to taste our old favorites and discover new ones as well.

Hoping that things normalize soon so we can all dine in at Bistro Charlemagne soon.

This Bistro Charlemagne branch is located at Fifth Floor, Ayala Malls Feliz, Dela Paz, Pasig City, open daily from 10am to 8pm. Orders may also be called in via +63 956 4507704. Digital payments via BDO and GCash are accepted.

Other branches are located at:

Paranaque: Third Floor, Cinema Building, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Aseana Avenue, Entertainment City, Parañaque City
Laguna: Solenad 3, Ayala Malls Solenad, Nuvali, Don Jose, Santa Rosa, Laguna

Bistro Charlemagne also delivers via FoodPanda, GrabFood and Mangan.

Got our food faves from Bistro Charlemagne at home

There are places and food that just become family favorites.

Take Bistro Charlemagne, for example.

I had my first taste of its unique and tasty takes on Asian cuisine in its then newly-opened Ayala Malls Feliz branch and it was only a matter of time before my whole family got hooked. Since then, we have visited this resto again and again for intimate dinners or big celebrations with the extended family. We even stopped by for a meal at its Ayala Malls Solenad branch on our way down from Tagaytay.

Unfortunately, it had to pause its operations during the enhanced community quarantine. The fam missed our enjoyable dinners there (and I missed my chance to celebrate my birthday in our favorite place). Sigh!

Thankfully, the metro has transitioned to a general community which provided people some freedom of movement and less restrictions on dining out. That said, I still have qualms about my family, especially the kiddos, leaving the safety of our home.

Well, the solution came when I heard that Bistro Charlemagne has re-opened and has made most of its menu items available for delivery and pickup.

Just in time, too, for my daughter #ExhibitA’s natal day. (She has been hounding me about having her faves from this resto for her birthday lunch.)

And wouldn’t you know it! Ordering was so easy: I just called the Ayala Feliz branch at +63 956 4507704, gave my orders, and then paid via GCash. On the day of my daughter’s birthday, I simply booked for the pickup of my orders from Ayala Malls Feliz Loading Bay for delivery to my place.

Just as #ExhibitA wished for her birthday, we feasted on several orders of:

Drunken Lengua in Brown Mushroom Sauce (Php415). Tender pan-seared ox tongue with mushrooms and asparagus in white wine sauce. This dish is particularly memorable for #ExhibitA, as she was the one who picked this dish out from the menu when I took her and her brother to eat at Bistro Charlemagne a few days after my first dining experience there.

Tenderloin Beef Rolls with Cheese (Php415). Tender, thinly sliced beef wrapped around cheese and sauteed in teriyaki sauce. This dish is absolutely irresistible for my little boy #ExhibitB, who just can’t keep himself from putting roll after roll onto his plate.

Japanese Beef Rice (Php135). Japanese rice, ground beef, mixed veggies and egg, all mixed together in one flavorful rice dish. This goes so well with the other viands that we can’t imagine our meal without this!

I may not be able to bring the whole fam outside yet, but I’m glad I was able to bring one of the best dining experiences home to my family.

Miss dining out? Bistro Charlemagne is also open for dine in and follows strict sanitation and physical distancing protocols for your safety.

This Bistro Charlemagne branch is located at Fifth Floor, Ayala Malls Feliz along Marcos Highway, Dela Paz, Pasig City. Call in your orders or book your table by calling +63 956 4507705 or +63 2 77299496.

Other branches are located at:

GFF-6, Building B, Ayala Malls Solenad 3, Nuvali, Don Jose, Santa Rosa, Laguna. (Tel: +63 049 2580846 or +63 917 8334223)
Lot 2, Third Floor, Cinemas Building, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Entertainment City Paranaque (Tel: +63 2 79149082)

Bistro Charlemagne also delivers via GrabFood, LalaFood and FoodPanda.

Download the Grab App and get a discount on your first food order when you use my code: GRABJELLYBEANS.

Use this link to download the FoodPanda app and get Php100 off your first order.

Download the LalaFood App and get a free delivery coupon when you use my code: BEINGJMR53.

Fresh changes at BOA Kitchen + Socials

Always changing is so integral to BOA Kitchen + Socials’ concept, it’s actually written on the wall.

Well, the collaborators behind this resto decided to change things up yet again by focusing on Southeast Asian cuisine.

“We decided to take a space,” says owner Joey Manuel. “We decided to niche down where we are strongest. Our chef, Julius Necor, is really good in regional Southeast Asian, so we positioned ourselves as comfort Asian.”

Comfort Asian, as Joey defined it, is the traditional regional favorites with some modern twists.

“For example, the authentic Beef Rendang would be really dry. But we (Filipinos) don’t like dry Beef Rendang here so we made ours a little saucy.”

Along with the change in menu, they also decided to cater to women, to give these titas a place to have fresh gastronomic adventures and enjoy chill time with their friends, whether as a brunch get-together or a night out drinking.

These decisions did bode well for Joey and Julius, with BOA Kitchen + Socials being recently hailed by Spot.PH as one of Metro Manila’s Top 50 New Restaurants.

Want a preview of BOA’s new menu? Check these out:

Laksa (Php425). A Peranakan dish made of shrimp, boiled egg, tofu, bean sprouts and fish cakea in a spicy curry coconut milk soup. I split this order with a friend so this is actually good for two.

Chicken Rice (Php325). Inspired by the Singaporean dish, this consist of Sous-vide ginger chicken, chicken rice, served with cucumber slices and sprinkled with kecap manis (sweet soy sauce), ginger-scallion oil and chili sauce.

Nasi Lemak Rice Bowl (Php245). The fragrant Malaysian rice dish cooked in coconut cream and pandan leaves, served with sambal (Indonesian chili sauce), dilis (dried anchovies), peanuts and soft-boiled or fried egg. You can opt for either Beef Rendang or Thai Fried Chicken to accompany this rice dish.

Deconstructed Banana Pie (Php175). A fresh take on the banana pie, this dish is made with caramelized banana strewn with streusel crumbs and served with vanilla ice cream.

House Blend Iced Tea (Php80). BOA has its own blend of iced teas which you can have as the classic or infused with mango or peach.

So, if you feel up for a change, drop by BOA Kitchen + Socials, and feel right at home.

Did you know that if you and a friend ordered 2 drinks at BOA Kitchen + Socials, you can get the same 2 drinks free via Zomato Gold?

Zomato Gold provides members with 1+1 (Buy 1 Get 1) deals on food or 2+2 (Buy 2 Get 2) deals on drinks. All you have to do is sign up for a Zomato Gold membership here. Use the code JELLYB to get 45% off the membership fee.

BOA Kitchen + Socials is located at Mezzanine Floor, 45 ABDC Building, Scout Rallos corner Scout Tuazon, Bgy. Laging Handa, Quezon City, open Sundays to Thursdays from 11am to 11pm and Fridays to Saturdays from 11am to 1am.

Check out my reviews of other restaurants serving Asian cuisines:

A delicious taste of Asia at KopiChan, Cubao

Cubao in Quezon City is a hustlin’ and bustlin’ place with various malls, shopping centers and bus stations in the vicinity.

Well, there’s a piece of good news for the hungry shopper or commuter in this area as a new and exciting restaurant just opened last month.

KopiChan translates to “coffee eatery.” It’s a place to have a sip of coffee while munching on some tasty and affordable Asian dishes.

The restaurant is styled after the old-timey Chinese restaurants in Binondo which are near and dear to us Pinoys, albeit with a few modern and colorful touches.

Together with my fellow foodies, I got a taste of its food offerings crafted by Chef Isaac Bravo and his team, which include:

Kung Pao Chicken (Php218 for solo | Php398 for sharing). Tender fried chicken fillets tossed with peanuts in a sauce made of sweet chili and soy sauce.

Soy Chicken (Php178 for solo | Php335 for sharing). Poached chicken leg in soy sauce with steamed bokchoy.

Tausi Beef Ribs (Php278 for solo | Php518 for sharing). Beef ribs with tofu cubes in tausi sauce.

Shrimp Paste Pork Ribs (Php248 for solo | Php458 for sharing). Pork spare ribs marinated in shrimp paste.

Beef Rendang (Php258 for solo | Php498 for sharing). Mildly spicy Indonesian-style beef stew in which the ribs are coconut milk.

Beef Noodle Soup (Php198 for solo | Php378 for sharing). Tender braised beef pieces in beef broth together egg noodles and bokchoy.

KC Spaghetti (Php138 for solo | Php248 for sharing). Spaghetti noodles topped with Asian spaghetti sauce and curry cheese sauce.

Salt and Pepper Squid (Php268 for solo | Php518 for sharing). Lightly battered pieces of fried squid tossed in salt and pepper.

KC Chopsuey (Php188 for solo | Php368 for sharing). Stir-fried mixed vegetables with shrimp, chicken, Chinese sausage and quail eggs in oyster sauce.

Gravy Eggs (Php48 for solo | Php118 for sharing). Hard-boiled eggs in Asian gravy.

Rendang Eggs (Php48 for solo | Php118 for sharing). Soft-boiled eggs in spicy Rendang sauce.

KC Clubhouse (Php218). KopiChan’s take on the clubhouse sandwich with bacon, egg, ham and special KC spread.

Kaya French Toast (Php198). Milk-soaked loaf bread toast topped with kaya spread, condensed milk and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Banana Pancakes (Php258). Pancakes with caramelized bananas and crunchy peanut butter.

Salted Egg Pao (Php98). Steamed salted egg custard bun.

Fried Kaya Buns (Php88). Fried mantou stuffed with kaya custard and served with vanilla ice cream.

KC Sundae (Php178). Three ice cream flavors – salted caramel, cookied and cream and vanilla – topped with crunchy cornflakes.

KopiChan will also launch new items on the menu soon so be on the lookout out for:

Yang Chow with Egg. A sunny side up egg is added to stir-fried rice with Chinese sausage, ham, egg and vegetable.

Nasi Lemak with Beef Rendang and Boiled Egg. A rice meal featuring the fragrant Malaysian rice dish cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf, accompanied by beef rendang and boiled egg.

Nasi Lemak with Charsiu Belly and Fried Egg. Another take on the nasi lemak, this time as KopiChan’s approximation of the Pinoy tocilog with charsiu pork belly and a sunny side up egg.

Soy Chicken Congee. The Asian style of rice porridge (similar to the Pinoy lugaw) served with a piece of soy chicken.

Enjoy your meal with tasty drinks that the kitchen can whip up for you:

Coffee with Condensed Milk (Php100). KopiChan’s take on the Vietnamese ca phe sua nong but this time, the condensed milk is poured into hot freshly brewed coffee.

Teh Tarik (Php100). The national drink of Malaysia, it is made from strong black tea blended with condensed milk.

Milo Dinosaur (Php135). Also known as Milo Tabur, it is a popular drink in Malaysia and Singapore wherein undissolved Milo powder is added on top of an already prepared iced Milo drink.

Horlicks (Php195). A cold drink flavored with horlicks powder primarily made of malted wheat and malted barley.

With Kopi Chan’s extensive array of affordable Asian food choices, Cubao just got itself a new foodie destination that opens of new worlds of dining for its locals and visitors!

Many thanks to Chef Isaac and team for the delightful meal and the warm welcome and to Harvard of AlwaysHungryPH for extending the invitation.

KopiChan is located at Shopwise Arcade, General Romulo Street, Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City, open 24/7. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 2 82515863 or +63 977 7486064.

Disclosure: Together with other food bloggers, I was invited to attend a food tasting held in this restaurant. Food items mentioned here were served to allow us to sample the fare and were not paid for by the attendees, including myself.

Check out my reviews of other Chinese restaurants:

Crema & Cream Bistro + Coffee Lab, Tomas Morato

Coffee culture is steadily gaining ground in the metro, with cafes and coffee shops offering high quality and specialty brews. Coffee has evolved from being just another beverage to a social lubricant.

In the foodie-friendly Tomas Morato area in QC, for instance, a new coffee establishment has sprung up, ready to elevate the coffee experience of local foodies while paving the way for friends and family to get together over their favorite coffee blends.

Crema & Cream Bistro + Coffee Lab started as a specialty coffee roaster not just supplying aficionados with coffee beans especially roasted to highlight their unique flavors, but also providing training and consultations to budding coffee experts.

Early this year, it opened its flagship store along Timog Avenue where it not only serves its quality brews but also a well-curated menu of dishes that will appeal to the metro’s epicures. It also features an inviting space for coffee lovers to work or hang out in solitude or dine together with like-minded companions.

Together with my officemates, I ventured out to Crema and Cream to experience it first-hand. Our lunch repast included:

Asian Chicken Salad (Php325). Honey-soy-and-garlic glazed fried chicken cutlets tossed into seasonal greens doused with wasabi mayo dressing and topped with fried wonton, mango, toasted almonds, corn, red radish, pickled red onion, edamame, nori, bonito flakes and toasted sesame seeds.

Mushroom Trio Toast (Php225). Mushroom jam served over arugula, tomato, feta cheese and topped with a poached egg over a slice of sourdough toast.

Chicken Waffle (Php325). Fried chicken cutlet served with a rosemary and cheese waffle topped with a fried egg and drizzled with a honey brown butter sauce.

Sausage and Egg Toast (Php255). Diced sausage and scrambled eggs served with caramelized onions, tomatoes and cheese on sourdough toast.

Pan-seared Salmon (Php565). Pan-seared salmon fillet served with French beans, cherry tomatoes, diced vegetables, herb pesto mashed potato with lemon butter cream sauce.

We also enjoyed some of Crema & Cream’s signature brews together with our meal. This included:

Hot Chocolate (Php140).

Mango and Peach Black Tea (Php120).

Flat White (Php150).

Cappuccino (Php140).

While the viands are not as hearty as we would like our lunch meal to be, the flavors presented are new and exciting. I wouldn’t mind returning to taste more of Crema & Cream’s offerings.

Crema and Cream Cafe Bistro + Coffee Lab is located at 116-B Timog Avenue corner 11th Jamboree Street, Bgy. Sacred Heart, Quezon City, open Tuesdays to Thursdays and Sundays from 8am to 11pm, and Fridays to Saturdays from 8am to 12 midnight. For inquiries or reservations, call +63 2 7130662.