Bonifacio Global City – Jellybeans in the City

Taiwanese Culinary Bliss at Din Tai Fung, SM Megamall

Are you on the hunt for a taste of authentic Taiwanese cuisine that will leave your taste buds singing? Well, look no further than Din Tai Fung. This award-winning Taiwanese restaurant, renowned for its exquisite Xiaolongbao, has found its way to the heart of the Philippines, and it’s not just a restaurant – it’s an experience!

The Moment Group brought the magic of Din Tai Fung to the Philippines in 2015, opening its first branch at the ever-vibrant SM Megamall. Since then, this food haven has expanded to other locations, including BGC, Power Plant Mall, Greenbelt 3, SM North EDSA and SM Mall of Asia, delighting the metro’s foodies.

During a recent shopping trip with my Hubby and son at SM Megamall, we treated ourselves to a Taiwanese feast for lunch at Din Tai Fung.

The Meaning Behind the Name

Ever wondered about the meaning behind Din Tai Fung’s name? Each character holds significance that aligns perfectly with the restaurant’s vision. “鼎” (Din) stands for Wok, symbolizing the traditional cooking method used to create some of their delectable dishes. “泰” (Tai) represents Peace, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Din Tai Fung – a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere for you to indulge in Taiwanese goodness. Finally, “豐” (Fung) stands for Abundance, promising a dining experience that leaves you fully satisfied and wanting more.

The Concept and Ambiance

Similar to other Din Tai Fung restaurants, the ambiance of its SM branch is marked by simplicity and understated charm.

While waiting for our table, we watched the expert chefs busily crafting the dimsum and rolling noodles from scratch.

The newly renovated interiors feature light wood walls elegantly adorned with LED screens and anime-style posters, minimalist wooden tables and chairs, and a relaxed dress code which set the stage for a laid-back yet elegant dining experience.

Whether you’re here with friends, family, or just treating yourself, Din Tai Fung promises an atmosphere that allows you to focus on what truly matters – the food.

Efficient Ordering, Serving, and Payment Process

One of the most unique aspects of dining at Din Tai Fung is the efficient and interactive ordering process. As my Hubby, son, and I settled into our seats, we were handed a clipboard with a list of mouthwatering dishes. Excited to explore the menu, we ticked off the dishes we craved, specifying the serving size and quantity we desired. Our choices were swiftly logged into the restaurant’s system, and a printed list was posted on our table to guide the servers in delivering the dishes we ordered.

After our meal, we settled our bill at the counter where payments via cash, credit or debit cards, Maya e-wallet are accepted.

The Mouthwatering Taiwanese Feast

Our lunch feast at Din Tai Fung was a combination of our all-time Taiwanese food faves as well as new dishes we wanted to try. The resulting symphony of flavors whisked us away to the streets of Taiwan.

Din Tai Fung’s iconic Pork Xiao Long Bao (Php375) are delicate parcels of heaven. Thanks to a visual guide shown by the wait staff, we were able to savor the full experience of eating our xiao long bao. This involved dipping our dumpling in a sauce made with made with ginger slivers, soy sauce and vinegar, placing it on a spoon and poking a small home into to release the broth, and then gently biting into it to get the full flavor explosion from the soup and the luscious pork filling.

Hubby couldn’t resist the Hot Sour Soup (Php215). The tangy, spicy, and savory broth filled with vegetables and tofu warmed him up for the rest of the meal.

Apparently, I also couldn’t resist the temptation of the Pork Roasted Garlic Bun (Php175), thanks to the rich, savory flavor of its pork, garlic, and scallions filling combined with the fluffy, steamed bun.

The Shrimp Shao Mai (Php255), on the other hand, is a treat to the eyes and tastebuds, thanks to its delicate wrapper and the sweetness of shrimp mingled with pork and mushrooms.

To balance our indulgence, we savored the Organic Spinach (Php285), lightly stir-fried with garlic and scallions. This simple yet delightful dish was a refreshing break, adding a dose of health to our feast.

The Salted Egg Squid (Php465), made with crispy, tender squid slices coated in a salty, savory egg batter, is an old favorite that we can always go for.

The 3 Cups Chicken (Php305), on the other hand, was a delicious viand cooked to perfection in a soy sauce, ginger, and scallion sauce; the chicken was tender and juicy, complemented by the rich sauce.

Of course, we couldn’t skip the Shrimp Fried Rice (Php275), a delightful combination of shrimp, chicken, and vegetables tossed in a fragrant soy sauce, ginger, and scallion base. The crispy rice and the medley of flavors complemented the other dishes in our meal.

Din Tai Fung at SM Megamall is quite worth a visit, with every dish is crafted with meticulous care and attention to detail. The ambiance is inviting, the service impeccable, and the flavors unforgettable.

So, foodies, if you’re looking for an authentic Taiwanese dining experience that’s full of peace and abundance, Din Tai Fung is the place to be. Head over to their branches across Metro Manila and embark on a culinary adventure with your loved ones while savoring some of the finest Taiwanese cuisine around.

This Din Tai Fung branch is located at Level 2, Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, EDSA corner Doña Julia Vargas Avenue, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City, open daily from 10am to 10pm. For inquiries, call +63 2 89971935 or +63 919 0845376.

Other branches in Metro Manila are located at:

City	Address	Operation Hours	Contact Number
Pasay City	Level 1 South Entertainment Mall, SM Mall of Asia	10 AM-10 PM (Mon-Sun)	+63 2 85271364 / +63 928 5124433 / +63 928 5181466
Quezon City	2nd floor, City Center, SM North EDSA	10 AM-10 PM (Mon-Sun)	+63 2 84590292
Taguig	LG/C1, Bonifacio High Street Central, Bonifacio Global City	11 AM-11 PM (Mon-Thu) 10 AM-1 AM (Fri-Sat) 11 AM-1 AM (Sun)	+63 2 88091865 / +63 919 0785209
Makati City	R1 Level, Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center	11 AM-9 PM (Mon-Thu) 11 AM-10 PM (Fri) 10 AM-10 PM (Sat) 10 AM-9 PM (Sat)	+63 2 88382344 / +63 919 0845732 / +63 960 4383830
Makati City	Level 2, Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center	11 AM-9 PM (Sun-Thu) 11 AM-10 PM (Fri-Sat)	+63 2 71211933 / +63 919 0845370

Stay updated on Din Tai Fung’s menu and offers by visiting The Moment Group’s website or by following Din Tai Fung on Facebook and Instagram.

Cafe Mary Grace, Uptown BGC: A Cozy Haven for the Fam’s Sunday Brunch

Cafe Mary Grace may have been dubbed the quintessential “tita place,” but I can’t help but embrace the delicious comfort it offers to its diners. And to tell you a secret: I’m not the only one in my family who does!

Ever since Hubby discovered his favorite pasta and sandwich combination at Cafe Mary Grace in SM City East Ortigas, he has oftentimes spearheaded family meals at its other branches.

One of our Sunday brunches after attending Mass was no exception, which we had at Cafe Mary Grace in Uptown Mall, BGC.

A Rich Heritage

Cafe Mary Grace is more than just a café; it is the realization of a passion for baking that started in 1983. Mary Grace Dimacali, the creative force behind the brand, began her journey as a young mother with a knack for working with dough. Starting with fruitcakes during Christmas, her delectable creations soon gained popularity among friends and family. Encouraged by her biggest supporter, Mary Grace expanded her reach by participating in bazaars, where her airy ensaymadas and cheese rolls became instant favorites.

As the bazaars thrived, Mary Grace’s children, Chiara, Gabriel, Raffy, Adrian, and Mian, realized the brand’s immense potential. In 2006, they took a leap of faith and opened the first Mary Grace Cafe in Serendra, BGC. The cafe became a true embodiment of their passion for good food and warm hospitality. Today, Cafe Mary Grace in Uptown Mall, BGC carries on the tradition, providing a haven for families seeking a memorable Sunday brunch experience.

Ambiance and Decor

This Cafe Mary Grace branch embraces its diners with a sense of home. The warm lighting, tasteful interiors, and a calm yet energizing atmosphere create a perfect setting for relaxation and connection. The modern Filipino decor, with its wooden accents and vibrant colors, reflects the cafe’s commitment to celebrating local culture. As you dine, you’ll notice dainty lamps and chandeliers adorning the ceilings, and heartfelt messages of appreciation from previous diners gracing the tables.

The cafe is thoughtfully designed to accommodate families of all sizes. The spacious dining area can comfortably seat large groups, ensuring that nobody feels left out. For those who enjoy dining al fresco, a few tables are available outside, allowing you to soak up the pleasant surroundings. At the heart of the cafe, you’ll find the bakery, where you can pick up an array of freshly baked pastries to enjoy later.

A Scrumptious Sunday Brunch

Now, let’s dive into the mouthwatering offerings that my family enjoyed at Cafe Mary Grace in BGC’s Uptown Mall. Made with lots of love and attention to detail, these dishes cemented Cafe Mary Grace’s place in our hearts:

Fili Beef & Tomato (Php403). Tender slices of beef served between batard bread with pesto dressing, garnished with tomato and lettuce. A flavorful and satisfying option for those craving a hearty sandwich.

Seafood Pasta (Php475). A seafood lover’s dream come true! Fresh clams, mussels, prawns, squid, and cream dory tossed with al dente pasta, olives, mushrooms, and tomatoes create a symphony of flavors.

Mary Grace Mushroom Cream (Php498 + Php150 for prosciutto). Indulge in fettuccine noodles enveloped in a delectable cream sauce with slivers of shiitake mushrooms. The dish is elevated with a touch of truffle oil and topped with savory sliced prosciutto.

Pasta Amatriciana with Italian Meatballs (Php433). A classic favorite with a Mary Grace twist. Spaghetti noodles topped with succulent Italian meatballs tossed in a thick tomato sauce with a hint of bacon.

Classic Carbonara (Php433). For those seeking the ultimate comfort, al dente pasta is perfectly combined with fresh mushrooms and crispy bacon slices in a homespun cream sauce.

Dory & Saffron Cream (Php430). Delight your taste buds with linguini noodles coated in a light cream sauce infused with leeks and saffron. The dish is elevated with pan-fried fillets of cream dory, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Indulgent Seasonal Desserts

No Sunday brunch is complete without a sweet ending, and Cafe Mary Grace delivers in this department too, especially with its limited-time cake offerings. Treat yourself to this heavenly desserts that will leave you craving for more before they leave the menu:

Banana Bella. A frozen pie crafted with fresh bananas, Belgian truffle ganache, and rich custard cream nestled in a buttery pie crust and topped with toasted almonds. A delightful fusion of flavors and textures.

Chocolate Rum Tiramisu. A scrumptious confection that combines espresso-soaked sponge cake made with 100-percent Arabica beans, luscious layers of mascarpone and dark chocolate ganache, and a subtle hint of premium aged Don Papa Rum.

Sundays are meant for relaxation, quality time with loved ones, and, of course, indulging in a delicious meal. If you’re on the lookout for a warm and inviting place to enjoy a comforting Sunday family meal, look no further than Cafe Mary Grace in Uptown Mall, Bonifacio Global City.

This Cafe Mary Grace branch is located at Level 4, Uptown Place Mall, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, open daily from 10am to 10pm. For inquiries and reservations, contact +63 2 87773263 or +63 917 8129154.

Stay updated on its promos and offers by visiting its website or following Cafe Mary Grace on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous posts about Cafe Mary Grace:

A tita brunch at Cafe Mary Grace, Eastwood Mall

5 ways Cafe Mary Grace’s ensaymada solves your holiday gifting dilemma

GrabFood Signatures family dinner from Cafe Mary Grace

Why we love Cafe Mary Grace’s Cheese Rolls: A delicious culinary delight

Indulging in comfort snacking at Cafe Mary Grace, SM East Ortigas

Brunching among friends: A fun get-together at The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery

One Saturday morning, I had the pleasure of meeting up with my former officemates at The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery in Bonifacio Global City. Here, we gathered around the big central table, reminiscing about our days working together and catching up on the new goings-on in our lives, and soaked up the relaxing atmosphere of the cafe.

A Modern Industrial Haven

The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery boasts of a modern and industrial concept that exudes urban charm. With painted brick walls, concrete floors, and stylish modern lighting, the cafe’s design sets the stage for a trendy and inviting dining experience. Large glass windows allow natural light to flood in, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease.

Friendly Vibes and Attentive Service

One of the standout aspects of our brunch experience was the friendly and attentive staff at The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery. From the time I called the branch to reserve our table to the time we arrived and dined there, the staff made us feel right at home. They ensured that our orders were taken and served promptly with a smile. With such efficient service, we were able to savor our brunch without any unnecessary delays.

A Delectable Brunch Spread

The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery’. Their’s menu includes a delightful selection of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, ensuring that there’s something for everyone’s taste buds. Here are some of the standout dishes that made our brunch truly unforgettable:

Breakfast Steak Skillet. A juicy ribeye steak, perfectly paired with garlic confit, garlic rice, a grilled tomato, and a fried egg.

SS Poppers. Crispy beer-battered deep-fried shrimp and squid, and served with a zesty lemon wedge and tangy aioli dip.

Avocado Toast. The classic combination of mashed avocado, poached eggs, and a sprinkle of spices on thick-cut sourdough bread and topped with arugula and feta cheese.

Tartufo Pasta. Fettuccini tossed in truffle cream, porcini mushrooms, prosciutto, and Parmesan cheese.

Soy Honey Seared Tuna. A light and refreshing option made with herb-crusted tuna seared to perfection, glazed with a sesame sriracha sauce and topped with arugula and cherry tomatoes.

Kale-Crusted Salmon. A healthy and flavorful dish featuring oven-roasted salmon crusted with kale pesto, and served on a bed of quinoa and salted French beans.

TFS Signature Pork Chop. A juicy and tender bone-in pork chop cooked sous vide and served with a delectable herbed butter and rice.

Wagyu Pares. Up-leveled Pinoy dish made with succulent wagyu beef braised in sweet soy sauce and spices and served with fried rice and beef broth on stackable steel containers, a nostalgic nod to our grade school lunch boxes.

Coffee and Refreshing Beverages

No brunch is complete without a satisfying cup of coffee or a refreshing beverage. At The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery, you can choose from a range of options to quench your thirst and satisfy your caffeine cravings. Some noteworthy choices include:

The morning spent with my former coworkers at The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery was a joyful experience filled with laughter, good food, and heartwarming memories. The cafe’s modern industrial ambiance, friendly service, and delectable menu options make it an ideal venue for brunch and get-togethers with friends. So, if you’re a foodie on the hunt for a fantastic brunch spot, make sure to add The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery to your list. Head over, relax, indulge, and create new memories over a delightful brunch that will leave you longing for more.

This branch of The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery is located at the Ground Floor, One Meridien Tower, 9th Avenue corner 27th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, open daily from 10am to 8.30pm.

Other branches are located at:

2/F Greenbelt 3, Esperanza Street, Ayala Center, Makati
Ground Floor, Phase 2, UP Town Center, Katipunan Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City

Check out my previous posts about The Fat Seed Cafe:

Nourishing the seeds of friendship at The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery, UP Town Center

The Tita’s Guide to Brunchin’ at The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery, UP Town Center

Max’s Restaurant reopens in Forbes Town: A must-try destination for BGC Denizens

Max’s Restaurant, the home of the famous Sarap-to-the-Bones® Fried Chicken, recently reopened its Forbes Town branch in Bonifacio Global City (BGC). The iconic Filipino restaurant chain well-loved for its delicious food and excellent service, is now ready to provide those residing or working in BGC the perfect place to visit for a satisfying meal any time of the day.

Max’s Restaurant: A Proud Filipino Tradition

Max’s Restaurant started in 1945 thanks to Maximo Gimenez, who opened his home together with his niece, Ruby, serving the now-famous Sarap-To-The-Bones® Fried Chicken. Since then, Max’s Restaurant has established itself as a household name, an institution, and a proud Filipino tradition.

Start Your Day with Max’s Restaurant

Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town is now open for breakfast, offering an extensive selection of sumptuous meals, baked products, and coffee. The branch recently collaborated with local coffee brand, Yardstick, to offer its special Max’s Medium Roast Blend. Customers can choose from a range of specialty coffee drinks, including Double Espresso, Cappuccino, Americano, Mocha, Spanish Latte, or the Classic Iced/Hot Latte. Pair your coffee with Max’s Corner Bakery’s Pandesal for a great start to your day.

Al Fresco Dining Area for Nature Lovers

Max’s Restaurant has also built a new al fresco pet-friendly dining area for those who prefer to dine outside. The breezy outdoor space gives a casual vibe and is best enjoyed during the summer months or days with favorable weather. It’s an excellent spot for nature lovers who want to enjoy their meals while taking in the beautiful scenery.

For the Busy Bees: Take-Out Nook

Max’s Restaurant has created a take-out nook for those on the go. Located beside the entrance door, this take-out nook offers a more convenient way to place orders and grab meals when in a rush. Whether you’re a resident or an office worker in BGC, Max’s Restaurant has got you covered.

Enjoy Filipino food favorites

One of the reasons why Max’s Restaurant has become an institution in the Philippines is because of its classic Filipino dishes. The most popular dish is, of course, its Sarap-To-The-Bones® Fried Chicken, which has crispy skin and juicy meat that Filipinos have come to love. This dish is best enjoyed with a side of sweet potato fries and banana ketchup.

For those who want a taste of different Filipino flavors, Max’s also offers a variety of classic dishes such as Lumpia (spring rolls), Chicken Sisig (a sizzling dish made with minced chicken, onions, and chili peppers), and Crispy Pata (deep-fried pork knuckles). These dishes are perfect for sharing with friends and family, especially when paired with Garlic Fried Rice.

For those who are looking for a vegetarian option, Max’s Restaurant also offers a variety of dishes such as Sizzling Tofu, which is a sizzling dish made with soft tofu, onions, and bell peppers. Lastly, Buko Pandan, a sweet dessert made with young coconut and pandan-flavored gelatin, provides a sweet cap to the meal.

The Perfect Venue for Functions and Events

Max’s Restaurant has always been a go-to place for catering to functions and events. At the second floor of Max’s Forbes Town, you’ll find newly renovated sound-proof function rooms that can accommodate company meetings, birthday parties, baptisms, and other events. Max’s Restaurant provides excellent service and high-quality food, making it the perfect venue for any occasion.

Visit Max’s Restaurant in Forbes Town

Max’s Restaurant in Forbes Town is located at 26th Street corner Forbes Town Road, Forbes Town Center, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, open daily from 7am to 11pm. Come and enjoy the delicious food, excellent service, and welcoming ambiance of Max’s Restaurant.