cocktails – Jellybeans in the City

#FindTheVault: Greenhills’ Prohibition-Era Secret Bar

Ever fancied yourself as a modern-day Gatsby, unlocking the door to a hidden world of glamour and mystery? If the thought of a clandestine rendezvous tickles your fancy, then Vault, the secret bar at Tittos Latin BBQ & Brew in Greenhills, should be right up your alley. Here’s the lowdown on how to step into this hidden gem and lose yourself in a bygone era of elegance and excitement.

The Adventure Begins

Behind the lively facade of Tittos Latin BBQ & Brew lies a secret that only the keenest eyes can uncover. Tittos isn’t just your average dining spot; it’s the gateway to a thrilling adventure. Imagine dining on sumptuous Latin dishes, with whispers hinting at something more—something hidden.

Curiosity piqued? Good. The first clue is the unassuming teal-colored door. Finding Vault is like embarking on a treasure hunt. Ask the staff for directions, and you’ll be guided through the secret passage. The thrill of stepping through that door is just the beginning.

Stepping Back in Time

As you step through the unassuming door, you’re transported from the bustling Latin American restaurant to a clandestine speakeasy straight out of the Roaring Twenties. Vault isn’t just a bar; it’s a portal to another era. The moment you enter, the ambiance shifts. The dim lighting, leather seating, and granite tables exude the essence of a bygone era.

It’s as if you’ve been whisked away to the days of Prohibition, where only the worthy few could gain entry to such exclusive haunts. The carefully curated decor, reminiscent of clandestine watering holes of yesteryears, sets the perfect stage for your night of intrigue and indulgence.

Savoring the Experience

No visit to Vault is complete without indulging in their tantalizing bar chow. Here’s a sampling of what your taste buds can look forward to:

Truffle Parmesan Fries (Php320). House-made fries seasoned with a special spice mix and drizzled with truffle oil, topped with a generous sprinkling of parmesan snow and served with a side of creamy aioli sauce.

Skewers. Enjoy smokey and flavorful bite-sized pieces of grilled Angus beef (Php160/stick), succulent pork (Php70), and tender chicken mojo (Php80).

El Toro (Php350). Indulge in crispy puff pastry filled with rich cheese crema, topped with caramelized onions and shreds of savory beef barbacoa.

Nacho El Gigante (Php395 for 3-5pax | Php710 for 6-8pax). Perfect for sharing, these crispy tortilla chips are piled high with beef barbacoa shreds, fresh tomato salsa, spicy jalapeno peppers, chimichurri salsa, melted cheeses, and a drizzle of Mexican crema sauce.

Crispy Pork Sisig (Php350). Delight in crispy pork mask sautéed with onions in a special sisig sauce, finished with a perfectly cooked egg on top.

Four Cheese Pizzadilla (Php340). A delightful fusion of pizza and quesadilla made with flour tortillas stuffed with melted cheese and sweet caramelized onions.

Of course, what’s a speakeasy without expertly crafted cocktails? Vault’s beverage selection is the perfect line-up of libations for your lively time at the bar. Take these, for example:

Tequila Shots. Enjoy shot glasses of Jose Cuervo Gold at Php180/shot glass. On Fridays, enjoy 5 shots for Php599.

The Social Scene

Vault isn’t just about great food and drinks; it’s about exclusivity and community. Imagine mingling with fellow adventurers, sharing the thrill of discovery, and becoming part of an elite circle. Keep an eye out for Vault’s promos and events that add an extra layer of excitement to your visit.

Don’t be shy—share your Vault experience on social media and let the world know about this hidden treasure. Just remember to tag them using #FindTheVault. After all, a secret this good deserves to be shared with those worthy of it.

So, are you ready to unlock the Vault and step into a world of hidden treasures and bygone elegance? The adventure awaits. With its perfect blend of mystery, nostalgia, and high-quality offerings, Vault is not just a bar—it’s an experience. It’s an exclusive escape into the glamour of the past, right in the heart of Greenhills.

So let yourself in on this secret and enter that teal-colored door.

Vault is located inside Tittos Latin BBQ & Brew at Ground Floor, O Square 2, Greenhills Shopping Center, Ortigas Avenue, San Juan, open Wednesdays to Saturdays from 5pm to 1am. For inquiries and reservations, contact +63 917 8848867.

Know more about its menu, events and offers by visiting its website or following Vault on Facebook and Instagram.

Disclosure: I attended a food tasting held at this establishment. Food and drinks were served at no cost to the attendees in exchange for honest feedback.

Check out my previous post about Vault:

A Night of Excellent Chows and Laughter Unlocked at Vault, Greenhills

Brunch Bureau: A Delightful Brunch Haven for Titas… and more!

Titas of Manila, let me introduce you to the newest hidden gem in the heart of Makati—Brunch Bureau! Nestled discreetly on the second floor of the Proscenium 1 Office Building in Rockwell Center, this cozy cafe is destined to be your go-to spot for a leisurely and delectable brunch experience with your beloved amigas.

A Peek into Paradise: Ambiance and Vibe

Brunch Bureau welcomes you with an inviting and laid-back atmosphere, the epitome of comfort and relaxation. The open floor plan ensures a seamless flow within the space, allowing for unhurried conversations and moments to savor. Plus floor-to-ceiling windows frames a lush view of the Proscenium grounds and nearby buildings, casting a serene natural light upon the cozy interiors. It’s a backdrop worthy of your Instagram post!

Culinary Delights for the Tita Palate: Menu Highlights

Brunch Specialties

Brunch at Brunch Bureau is a delightful affair, boasting an array of brunch specialties that will surely tantalize your taste buds.

Here are some highlights:

CAESAR SALAD (Php360). Crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, savory bacon, crunchy croutons, and a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese plus a serving of Asian Caesar dressing, all come together harmoniously.

EBI KATSU BALLS (Php500/8pcs). Crispy, flavorful mini balls made from minced shrimp and mixed Asian aromatics. Served with a luscious garlic soy glaze and roasted pepper aioli.

BRUNCH BUREAU BENEDICT (Php495). Fried tocino, sautéed spinach, eggs, and torched dalandan hollandaise, all resting atop moist and butter-toasted banana bread. Accompanied by a hint of spicy truffle honey.

GRILLED CHEESE & TOMATO CAPPUCCINO (Php420). A medley of mozzarella, cheddar, emmental, cream cheese, and parmesan paired with a delightful tomato cappuccino on the side.

MANILA CARBONARA (Php445). Savor linguine adorned with sausage crumbles, mushrooms, cream sauce, furikake poached egg, and cured egg yolks—a comforting twist on the classic carbonara.

SALMON WITH MISO EMULSION (Php595). Pan-seared salmon fillet, adorned with a velvety torched miso emulsion, graces a bed of spam and kimchi egg fried rice. Served with pico de gallo and nori rice crisps.

KOREAN CHICKEN CHOP (Php395). Chicken thigh fillet, perfectly fried and glazed with a homemade Korean-style sweet soy sauce. Served atop spam and kimchi egg fried rice, accompanied by a mix of homemade pickles.

Coffee and Cocktails

To complement your meal, Brunch Bureau offers an array of coffee-based beverages, including options made from Single Origin beans from Melbourne-based roasters Seven Seeds and locally sourced beans such as Kalsada.

In addition to coffee, the brunch experience is elevated with unique cocktails crafted for the perfect mid-morning celebration.

Time to Brunch

Brunch Bureau exemplifies the art of a perfect brunch—a blend of culinary mastery and inviting ambiance. The dedication to craft is evident in every bite, and the cozy atmosphere sets the stage for unhurried conversations and joyful camaraderie.

So, to all the Titas in search of the ideal brunch escapade—look no further. Gather your friends, swap stories, clink glasses, and relish in the joy of a wonderful brunch outing at Brunch Bureau!

If you’re a Rockwell resident, employee, office tenant or Rockwellist app user, get 50% OFF your total bill (max of Php5000) when you dine in at Brunch Bureau until October 8, 2023! Terms and conditions apply.

Brunch Bureau is located at the 2nd Floor, 1 Proscenium Office Building, Estrella Drive, Rockwell Center, Makati City, open daily from 7am to 12 midnight. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 917 8106728.

Know more about Brunch Bureau’s menu and offers by following it on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok.

Disclosure: I attended a food tasting held at this restaurant. Food items were served at no cost to facilitate this feature.

Gourmet Food Trippin’ at Manila Ocean Park

How’s your summer going so far, foodies?

If you’ve got a hankering for some #VitaminSea but are not keen on leaving the city, then Manila Ocean Park is definitely the place to be!

Having just reopened after nearly two years of being closed to the public, Manila Ocean Park is reinforcing its positioning as the all-season holiday destination with eight exciting attractions now ready for the hordes of urbanites like you who are raring for fun and adventure.

All that walking around and sight-seeing is sure to work up an appetite, though. Well, don’t worry, dear foodies, because Manila Ocean Park also serves up gastronomic delights that will satisfy even the most discerning gastronome.

These culinary creations are all curated by Manila Ocean Park’s Executive Chef Ranuka Hettiarachchi, who brings his extraordinary skill sets to bear in bringing distinctly gourmet dining experiences for the park’s visitors through its in-house restaurants.

MOP Food Trip — Chef Ranuka Hettiarachchi, Manila Ocean Park and Hotel H20’s Executive Chef

Garden Dining by White Moon Bar

Garden Dining by White Moon Bar came about in May 2021 when the lockdowns were beginning to ease up but indoor dining was not yet allowed. By making use of Manila Ocean Park’s Barnyard area to offer al fresco dining, and serving up a refreshed menu of Asian fusion dishes, this newly opened eatery became a bright spot for foodies looking for restaurant-quality fare during quarantine.

Looking at these mouth-watering dishes, you would be hard-pressed to imagine Chef Ranuka whipping these up using just a griddle and stove, which was all he had available when this restaurant first opened.

While feasting on these dishes, you can quench your thirst with refreshing shakes and cocktails.

Garden Dining by White Moon Bar is located at the side entrance of Manila Ocean Park near The Barnyard and Sea Lion pool.

Read about my previous experience here.

Makan Makan Asian Food Village

Makan Makan Asian Food Village got its name from the Singaporean expression that invites people to eat.

Located at the second floor of Hotel H2O off to the side of Manila Ocean Park, this restaurant presents an extensive array of tasty Singaporean hawker fare, staple Chinese dishes, and Pinoy classic faves, giving hotel guests and park visitors a viable option for their midday or evening meal.

With both familiar and exotic dishes on offer, Makan Makan Asian Food Village is a worthy food stop during your Manila Ocean Park adventure.

For more details and updates on its food offerings, follow Makan Makan Asian Food Village on Facebook and Instagram.

Garden Cafe by Hotel H2O

If you feel like you want to take a coffee break in the middle of your wanderings around the park, drop by Garden Cafe by Hotel H2Oo. Here, you can relax amidst a refreshing backdrop of foliage and open air, while you sip your handcrafted coffee or smoothie.

You may as well indulge yourself with some pastries while you’re at it. These confections are usually sea-themed and lovingly crafted by Chef Ranuka’s pastry chefs.

Mirror Glazed Sea-Themed Cake.

Aqua Bavarian Donut.

Cakes.

Other Pastries.

Want something to help you combat a hot day? Go for some iced coffee, then.

Don’t hesitate to sit down and take a break with your pals while having some coffee and pastries in this comfy (and very Instagrammable) nook.

Garden Cafe by Hotel H2O is located at the ground floor of Hotel H2O, easily accessible from Manila Ocean Park.

Follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

White Moon Bar

Want to end your Manila Ocean Park adventure on a high note?

Then, proceed to the second floor deck of Hotel H2O to catch the gorgeous sunset while you hang out at White Moon Bar.

Nibble on some appetizing bar chow while listening to chill music.

Of course, your sunset chillout sesh wouldn’t be complete without some of White Moon Bar’s Classic and Signature cocktails.

So take the time to enjoy good food and great company at White Moon Bar as you wind down from your activity-packed day at Manila Ocean Park.

Follow White Moon Bar by Hotel H2O on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on its offers.

Watch out for more foodie destinations that Manila Ocean Park will be launching soon!

Manila Ocean Park is located behind the Quirino Grandstand in Luneta along Roxas Boulevard, Ermita Manila. Book your tickets via Klook or visit its website.

To stay updated on its promos and offers, follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Disclosure: I attended food tastings held at these restaurants during my recent tours in Manila Ocean Park. Food items here were served at no cost to the attendees.

Check out my previous posts about Manila Ocean Park:

Manila Ocean Park's Francis Low — Profile: Manila Ocean Park’s Francis Low

Manila Ocean Park Reopening — 6 reasons to bring the fam to Manila Ocean Park

These Tanduay holiday cocktails are sure to make your celebrations merrier

Get into the holiday spirit with these cocktails infused with Tanduay’s most-awarded and best-selling rum products.

Cranberry Champagne Rum Punch

Delight your family and friends with this twist to your regular champagne. We know you’re busy will all the other preparations, so we’ve made this cocktail really easy to make with the Tanduay Asian Rum Silver giving it that right kick.

Ingredients

8 oz Rosé Sparkling Wine, chilled
11 oz Ginger Ale, chilled
2 oz Tanduay Asian Rum Silver
Frozen Raspberries
Rosemary for garnish

Procedure

Mix all the liquids in a large pitcher and distribute it into a champagne glass or any glass you’d like to serve it in. Garnish it with frozen cranberries and a sprig of fresh rosemary.

Hot Buttered Rum

As the months have gone colder, it’s nice to snuggle up and drink a delicious warm beverage. Find comfort in Tanduay’s version of the Hot Buttered Rum. That Tanduay Asian Rum Gold in the mix gives it notes and aromas that would remind you of summer nights in the tropics.

Ingredients

1 stick Unsalted Butter, softened
2/3 cup Brown Sugar, packed
3 tsp Maple Syrup
1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg
1/4 tsp Ground Cloves
1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
A pinch of Salt
1 oz Tanduay Asian Rum Gold
8 oz Boiling Water
Whipped Cream
Cinnamon Stick (optional)

Procedure

You can use an electric mixer or a simple whisk will do. Mix the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla extract and salt until they are well combined.
Scoop a tablespoon-full of the butter mixture into a glass and add Tanduay Asian Rum Gold and boiling water.
Stir until the butter is fully dissolved. You can opt for more or less water, depending on the level of sweetness you want.
Top it with whipped cream and sprinkle with ground cinnamon.
To make it more Instagram-able, you can add a stick of cinnamon or a whole star anise on top of the whipped cream. You can transfer the remaining butter in a small ramekin to save for later use.

White Christmas Mojito

A mojito is a standard drink in any celebration and Tanduay gives its own twist to this favorite by adding its Boracay Rum Coconut. The flavor is distinctly Filipino and distinctly Tanduay.

Ingredients

10 pcs Mint Leaves
3 pcs Lime Wedges
0.5 oz Lime Juice
0.5 oz Simple Syrup
1.5 oz Boracay Rum Coconut
2 oz Coconut Cream
3 oz Cranberry Juice
2 oz Club Soda
Desiccated Coconut
Sprig of Mint
Frozen Cranberry
Ice

Procedure

In a shaker, muddle the lime wedges. Slightly scrunch the mint leaves with your hands, then add into the shaker. Scrunching rather than muddling releases the mint oils without making it bitter.
Add the lime juice, simple syrup, Boracay Rum Coconut, coconut cream, and cranberry juice.
Fill it halfway with ice and then shake.
Rim the glass with desiccated coconut and then strain the mixture 3/4 of the glass.
Top it with club soda. You can use frozen cranberries and a sprig of mint for garnish.

Boozy Peppermint Mocha

No need to line up to get your peppermint mocha fix. You can now make your own at home with this easy-to-follow recipe. Having the Boracay Rum Cappuccino into the mix makes it even more delicious. You can enjoy this drink hot or cold.

Ingredients

2 oz Simple Syrup
0.5 tsp Peppermint Extract
10 oz Whole Milk
5 oz Heavy Cream
1 tbsp Unsweetened Coconut Powder
1/4 cup Dark Chocolate Chips
2 oz Boracay Rum Cappuccino
8 oz Espresso
Chocolate Syrup
Whipped Cream
Candy Cane (optional)

Procedure

In a small saucepan, sift the cocoa powder and whisk in the heavy cream until the cocoa powder is fully dissolved. Add the milk and place the pan over low heat.
Stir until the mixture starts to steam, then turn off the heat.
Add the chocolate chips and whisk until fully dissolved. Transfer the mixture into a blender and add simple syrup, peppermint extract, espresso, and Boracay Rum Coconut. Blend it until it becomes frothy.
Get a cup and drizzle it a bit of chocolate inside for design. Pour in the mocha mixture, then top with whipped cream. Drizzle again with chocolate syrup and garnish with a candy cane.

If you prefer something cold, you can put the chocolate milk mixture in the refrigerator and wait for it to cool down. Instead of espresso, use cold brew. Then serve it over fresh ice.

If you want something ice-shaken, just add ice into the blender with your mixture.

Whichever Tanduay holiday cocktail you plan to make for your celebrations, you and your guests are sure to enjoy them. In creating these cocktails, you bring a part of the Philippines, a country known for celebrating Christmas as early as September, into your own homes during this season of joy.

Cocktail images and recipes provided in a recent press release.

Photo Credit: Jia Jia Shum in Unsplash

The Jelly List: Countdown to sundown at Lamp Quarters, Marikina

The sun may rise in the East but that doesn’t mean that the fun stops here when the sun goes down.

Lamp Quarters in Marikina, for example, is one of the prime destinations east of Manila where things definitely liven up from late afternoon to late night.

Looking for a place to spend the waning hours of the day with friends? Lamp Quarters is your best bet, because:

Being located in the Marikina suburbs, it provides a welcome escape from the noise and traffic woes you experience in most parts of the metro.
It has a sprawling outdoor dining area where you can comfortably meet up with your pals over some brews, cues and even a bit of booze.
It houses several establishments that cater to diverse cravings.

So join me and my foodie friends as we count down to sundown at various foodie hotspots here at Lamp Quarters, Marikina!

4… Celsius Cafe Lounge for coffee connoisseurs

Get a taste of the sheer wondrous variety of coffee the world has to offer at Celsius Cafe Lounge.

A third-wave coffee shop that serves handcrafted brews from single-origin coffee beans sourced from various countries, Celsius is sure to broaden your coffee horizons!

Top coffee finds here include:

Filtered Coffee from Tanzania.

Espresso Affogato.

Spanish Latte.

Want some bites to go along with your brews? Then nibble on these sweet and savory snacks!

Pork Floss.

Danish Bread.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich,

Ube Queso de Bola Cheesecake.

Celsius also offers all-day breakfast with free coffee.

To know more about this extraordinary coffee shop, follow Celsius Cafe Lounge on Facebook and Instagram.

3… Tongara Ramen for ramen lovers

If you’ve been craving ramen then look no further than Lamp Quarters’ ramen destination: Tongara Ramen.

Lauded for its signature broth which is also its namesake – ton from tonkotsu (made from pork bones) and gara from torigara (made ftom chicken bones), it serves up ramen and other Japanese dishes that are sure to excite ramen lovers.

Check out its best-sellers:

Tongara Ramen.

Ebi Miso Ramen.

Tantanramen.

Tsukemen.

Karaage.

Spicy Chicken.

Tonkatsu.

Gyoza.

To support the drive for herd immunity, Tongara Ramen is also serving free gyoza for every ramen purchase upon presentation of your COVID-19 vaccination card until September 2020.

You can also enjoy Tongara’s signature dishes at home by ordering a Tongara Home Kit Bundle for pickup or delivery:

For 2 (Php1,800). Includes 2 Tongara Ramen kits and 1 frozen karaage kit
For 4 (Php2,300). Includes 2 Tongara Ramen kits, 1 frozen gyoza kit and 1 frozen karaage kit

For more deets on what you can enjoy here, follow Tongara Ramen on Facebook and Instagram.

2… Wing Commander for food trippers

Are you a kapakpak? Then hie yourself over to Wing Commander where you can embark on an unli food trip.

For just Php198, bite into unlimited crispy fried chicken wings, coated in sauces of international flavors and accompanied by filling portions of fries and rice. Add Php78 and you can have a bottomless drink to go with your meal.

Wing your next foodie adventure with these flavors:

Filipino Barbecue.

American Honey Mustard.

Chinese Szechuan.

Russian Thousand Island.

Japanese Wasabi.

Indian Cumin.

Fasten your seatbelts because at Wing Commander, the chicken bites and the chikahan are non-stop!

For the latest scoop on Wing Commander, follow it on Facebook.

1… Opening soon, Bar by East for cocktails

Want to cap the night with a drink or two? Pretty soon, Lamp Quarters will let you in on a little secret… a hidden bar!

The trendy office space of architectural firm Emerging Architects Studio (EAST) will give way to a hip and happenin’ secret bar at night!

Here’s a sneak peek at some of its refreshing classic cocktails:

Whisky Sour. Made with whisky, lemon, brown sugar, bitters.

Cold Brew Martini. Made with vodka, cold brew and coffee liqueur.

Whisky Highball. Made with whisky, ginger ale and citrus.

Gin and Tonic. Made with gin, tonic water, and citrus.

Margarita. Made with tequila, orange liqueur, lime, and salt.

Daiquiri. Made with white run, lime, sugar syrup.

Negroni. Made with gin, campari, and sweet vermouth.

Not much of a tippler? Never fear because the barista can concoct a non-alcoholic beverage for you just like this “Gel and Tonic” (a mocktail jokingly named by the barista after me, hahaha!) made with cold brew, tonic water and citrus.

The good news is that you won’t have to travel far for a hidden bar adventure!

Bar by EAST will be opening to the public soon. In the meantime, it is available for intimate private events. For inquiries, send a message to EAST on Instagram.

So don’t let the sundown get you down: welcome the end of the day with good food, good fun and good friends at Lamp Quarters!

Lamp Quarters is located along Gil Fernando Street, Centro de Buenviaje, Bgy Santo Nino, Marikina City. For updates on its special promos and events, follow Lamp Quarters on Facebook and Instagram.

For inquiries, call Lamp Quarters +63 917 6520324 or email lamp.quarters@gmail.com.

Disclosure: Together with my foodie friends, I attended a food tasting held at this venue. Food items mentioned here were served to elicit honest feedback and were not paid for by the attendees.

The Jelly List: Thoughtful Gifts for Valentine’s Day

The day of hearts is fast approaching. Despite the pandemic, Valentine’s Day remains one of the most anticipated holidays of the year.

The question is: how can sweethearts in the metro celebrate the day of romance if they can’t go out to wine and dine?

Through thoughtful gift-giving, of course!

Nothing says “I love you” like a well-considered present, one that gave thought to one’s sweetheart’s interests and passions.

Check out this list and let me know which suggestion suits your beloved best:

For the hopeless romantic: Preserved Flower Arrangement from Stories & Blossoms

Flowers are almost synonymous with Valentine’s Day. A bouquet of fresh-cut blooms would set a romantic heart racing, but nowadays, preserved flowers may be the way to go. They last longer than fresh flowers and are pretty low maintenance. (Somewhat like the ideal partner, eh?)

Tell your love story with a tasteful preserved flower arrangement from Stories & Blossoms. Through the creative combinations of colors, shapes and textures of various preserved blooms, you can express quite a lot to your loved one and evoke romantic memories. You can even have a unique arrangement inspired by your loved one favorite book, movie or TV series, just like the store’s Sex & the City Collection.

Stories & Blossoms’ preserved flower arrangements start at Php299 with more ornate signature creations starting at Php2,500. You can also have an arrangement custom-made according to your preferred colors and flowers as well as your budget. Shop online at Stories & Blossoms’ website or call +63 967 5099050.

Bar chows and chill drinks at After Hours, Tomas Morato

After hours is that precious time when the day’s work is done and we can finally sit back to relax and spend time with friends.

After Hours is also the name of a newly opened bar in foodie haven Tomas Morato. This is where my foodie friends and I, shortly before the Covid-19 and the ECQ came down upon all of us, were able to enjoy a few hours chillin’ in each other’s company while discovering all the fun to be had after hours.

1) The buzzy welcoming vibe

You would think that Tomas Morato would already have its fill of concept bars but there’s definitely room for more, especially this one.

With its ample parking space, trendy decor, comfy furnishings, a playlist made up of 80s and 90s hits (which my friends and I sang along with!), excellent chows and a well-stocked bar, After Hours is a haven for those looking for some well-deserved R ‘n R.

2) Chill drinks

According to co-owner Rey Trillana, the focus of After Hours are on cocktails, whiskey and a bit of wine, drinks to chill with after work. Each cocktail is handcrafted (no pre-mixes). For whiskey connoisseurs, the bar also boasts of a well-curated whisky collection. Guests even have the option of getting the bartender to craft something Out of the Blue, based on their favorite liquor and taste profile.

During our visit, my foodie friends and I were able to sample:

Jack Estate’s Pink Moscato. A fresh and fruity wine from Australia.

Perfect Pear. A fruity non-alcoholic mocktail for lightweights like me.

Smoked Old Fashioned. The classic mix of bourbon, simple syrup and Angostura bitters, served with a bit of smoke and flair.

Red Sangria Spritzer. Handcrafted sangria made with wine, brandy, mixed berries, chamomile honey, calamansi and soda.

After Six. Gin mixed with elderflower liquor, lavender syrup, egg white and lemon juice.

Punch Drunk Love. After Hours’ signature cocktail made with spiced rum, chai pandan syrup, lemon and pineapple juice, Angostura bitters and clarified milk, served with a dehydrated pineapple.

3) Tasty bar chows

Of course, we needed some chows to go with those drinks, and After Hours has a very good kitchen going managed by Chef Miggy. He and his crew whipped up some tasty bar chows to complement our drinks, such as:

Beef Salpicao. Tender USDA beef tenderloin sauteed in a garlic butter sauce, definitely a favorite among tipplers and foodies.

Buffalo Style Chicken Poppers. Spicy, salty and slightly sweet bite-sized chicken breasts.

BBQ Beef Pockets. Crispy wonton pockets stuffed with ground beef doused with bourbon BBQ sauce and cheese.

Four Cheese Pizza. Mozzarella, feta, parmigiano reggiano and gorgonzala, all the good stuff on a thin-crust pizza.

All-Meat Pizzadilla. Gooey mozzarella sandwiched in two flour tortillas and topped with pepperoni, sausage, bacon, BBQ sauce and even more cheese.

Pork Binagoongan Pasta. Spaghetti with crispy-fried pork cubes tossed in shrimp paste.

Bacon Mushroom Truffle Pasta. Creamy truffle spaghetti topped with crunchy bacon.

Oh, such a happy time! There were good food, good drinks and good company.

But then, the community quarantine came and, sadly, After Hours had to close its doors for a while.

It seemed like the entire bar industry had been severely affected by the community quarantine.

However, a few weeks ago, I had the pleasant surprise of finding out that it had resumed operations to enable its loyal customers to get that After Hours experience even while at home through Buy One Take One offers on its wines, its signature cocktails by the bottle, as well as a selection of its bar chows, all available for delivery or pickup!

Thanks to Rey Trillana and the rest of the management and staff of After Hours Bar for having us and congratulations for succeasfully pivoting your business to operate in The New Normal.

So until the next time I can visit After Hours again, I can enjoy my after hours at home.

After Hours is located at 125 Don A. Roces Avenue, Barangay Laging Handa, Quezon City. To order its bar chows, wines and cocktails for pick up or delivery, fill up this form, send a message over Instagram or call +63 917 1767383.

Disclosure: Together with other foodies, I attended a foodie meet-up held in this restaurant. All the food items mentioned here were served to allow us to sample the fare to facilitate honest reviews and were not paid for by the attendees, including myself.

Drinks, bar chows and songs at 121 Restaurant, BGC Stopover

Celebrations are best done with good food and fun drinks amidst friends and family.

And you know what else marks good Pinoy-style celebrations?

Music!

Any true-blue Juan or Juana can gather up the courage to break into song (in tune or not!) for the sake of a good time.

And with 121 Restaurant’s Canta Rooms, you can enjoy just that!

Canta Rooms are the restaurant chain’s videoke rooms that can cater to groups of up to twenty people. In these rooms, you and your friends can sing and party your hearts out!

Don’t forget to fuel yourselves up for a night of singing and laughter with 121 Restaurant’s tasty bar chow, such as:

Nachos (Php419). Crispy nachos doused in cheese sauce, grated cheese, onions, peppers and ground beef.

French Fries (Php139 solo | Php499 barkada). A mountain of crispy thin fries for mindless munching.

Cheese Sticks (Php199 solo | Php759 barkada). Sticks of cheese in lumpia wrapper.

121 Tofu Sisig (Php179 solo | Php699 barkada). A healthier version of the Pinoy’s favorite appetizer.

Calamares (Php219 solo | Php839 barkada). Succulent and chewy squid rings covered in batter and deep-fried for that satisfying crisp.

Pork Siomai (Php179 solo | Php699). Sate your hunger with these Chinese-style pork dumplings.

4th of July (Php599). A bundle good for four people consisting of Spicy Buffalo Wings, Chili Fries and Beer Battered Onion Rings.

To get the good times rollin’, be sure to check out the restaurant’s drinks, such as 121’s Pink Panty (P199 glass | Php999 scorpion bowl), a top secret concoction!

So the next time you’re in the mood to party and dine with your pals, head straight to 121 Restaurant’s Canta Rooms.

Many thanks to Daryl of 121 Restaurant for having us!

By the way, with Zomato Gold, you get a dish free when you dine at 121 Restaurant with a friend. 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.

This 121 Restaurant branch is located at Third Floor, BGC Stopover Pavilion, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, open 24/7. For reservations and inquiries, call +63 2 79467429.

Other branches are located at:

121 L. P. Adamson building, Leviste Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City
Ground Floor, Venice Piazza, McKinley Hill, Taguig
Second Floor, Allegro Center, Pasong Tamo Extension, Magallanes, Makati City
Eastwood Citywalk 1, Libis, Quezon City

Stuck at home during the ECQ? No need to leave the safety and comfort of your abode to enjoy 121 Restaurant’s famous bar chow. You can simply have your meal delivered through GrabFood, LalaFood or FoodPanda.

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.

Alibi, Tomas Morato

No need to wrack your brain for an excuse to have a night out with friends at the end of the work week at this newest bar in Tomas Morato.

Tucked discreetly in the basement of a converted house along Scout Delgado Street in the Tomas Morato area, Alibi is reason enough to chill out with your crew as you enjoy your favorite cocktail and bar chow.

But just in case you need to justify your night out for the Third Inquisition when you get home, you might want to mention how irresistible these are:

One: Tasty bar chow for a serious case of the munchies.

Chase away your hunger with these bar chows:

Tuna Sashimi and Salmon Sashimi (Php275 each).

Salpicao (Php250). Cubes of hanger steak sauteed in roasted garlic and served with mushrooms and cherry tomatoes.

Country-Style Fried Chicken (Php200), Juicy pieces of chicken tenders, breaded and deep-fried to a golden brown and served with gravy.

Baby Back Ribs (Php250). Succulent grilled pork ribs coated in barbecue sauce and served with a tangy coleslaw on the side.

Alibi Fries (Php190). Deep-fried thick-cut fries served with cheese and katsu sauces and topped with bonito flakes.

Mini Sausage (Php150). Sausages cut in bite-size pieces.

Pork Sisig (Php250). The classic Pinoy appetizer made of minced pork pieces sauteed in calamansi, onions and chilis.

Oyster Sisig (Php290). Alibi’s fresh take on the staple dish using oysters in the place or pork. Wow! (More on Alibi’s oyster offerings later.)

Two: Exciting cocktails to try.

Drink to a well-deserved weekend break with Alibi’s signature concoctions.

Lychee Mojito (Php145). Made with lychee, mint leaves and rum.

Tomato Quila (Php145). Made with tomatoes, pear juice and Jinro Grapefruit Soju.

Hello Kiwi (Php145). Made with kiwi, aloe vera, absinthe and soda.

Yakuroto Vodka (Php165). Made with cherry, peach vodka and Yakult.

Three: An oyster bar. ‘Nuff said!

Fresh Aklan oysters, whether plain, topped with Miso Bechamel or Pesto sauce, yours for Php50 apiece.

Who wouldn’t want to take a decadent taste of the sea with these glorious Philippine oysters?

So, go ahead. Take a long-awaited breather for the weekend. Hang out with your friends. You’ve already got your Alibi.

Alibi is located at 115 Scout Delgado Street, Barangay Sacred Heart, Quezon City, open Thursdays to Saturdays, from 7pm to 3am.

Disclosure: Together with my fellow foodies, I was invited to join a foodie meetup held at 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.

El Chante, Poblacion

Denizens of Poblacion in Makati are probably already familiar with the previous site of the Johnny Walker House in Pobacion. Located at the corner of Dona Carmen Street and Kalayaan Avenue, it is a touchstone for those seeking the night life.

In fact, a few months back, a special viewing party for the premiere for Game of Thrones Season 8 was held right here.

Today, it is the place to be for music, food and drinks have a hot Latin flavor under the name El Chante.

Chante is a colloquial Spanish word for “home.” And those who prefer their nightlife eats and entertainment to have that saucy Latin quality would surely feel at home here.

Together with my fellow foodies from #WeLoveToEat, I ventured to Poblacion and its newest nightlife destination. The Latin-style bar chow and eats we sampled include:

Salchipapas (Php200 for single | Php250 for platter). A portmanteau of Spanish words salchicha (“sausage”) and papas (“potatoes”), this Peruvian street food consist thinly sliced pan-fried sausages drizzled with ketchup and other sauces.

Beef Empanadas (Php200). Baked pastry turnovers with savory ground beef filling. Be sure to ask for extra servings of El Chante’s special sauce. You’ll know why as soon as you dip the empanada (or any of the bar chow) in it.

Buffalo Chicken Wings (Php200 for single | Php380 for platter) and Buffalo Chicken Tenders (Php250 for single | Php420 for platter). Unbreaded and deep-fried chicken pieces coated in zesty and spicy buffalo sauce prior to serving.

Cheesy Cheese Sticks (Php200) and Chili Cheese Sticks (Php200). Sticks of cheese wrapped in egg roll wrappers; the spicier ones – also called dynamite rolls – have chili peppers in them along with the cheese.

Mozzarella Sticks (Php250). Breaded and deep-fried slices of mozzarella cheese.

Nachos (Php200 for single | Php380 for platter). Freshly made tortillas deep-fried to a crisp and topped with cheese sauce, pulled pork, special mayo and salsa.

Salivating yet? Well, these bar chow are just half the fun. Wait ’til you get a taste of El Chante’s house cocktails that are just full to the brim of pop culture references!

The Irish Trash Can (Php250). Made with vodka, gin, rum, peach schnapps, blue curacao, triple sec and one can of red bull. If this doesn’t get you in a partying mood, I don’t know what will.

Mermaid’s Drink (Php250). Here’s something to cheer Ariel up! Lemon juice mixed with simple syrup, vodka, midori and blue curacao make up this drink that brings you to the seaside with every sip.

White Walker (Php250). Named after the chillest (literally!) characters in Game of Thrones, this drink consists of orchata liquer, vanilla cream soda, cream, rum and blue curacao.

Butter Beer (Php250). This is definitely NOT the Hogsmeade drink as this has beer and Liquor 45. Drink your heart out, Harry Potter!

Planning a fun night out with the gang? Check out El Chante’s special take on tequila shots. Instead of salt and lemon, brown sugar and orange slices accompany the shots of Olmeca tequila. Toast among your friends with this for just Php500 for every five shots.

Plus, there’s an open bar for just Php600 from 9pm to 12 midnight everyday.

Well, it sure looks like Poblacion’s party people have a new rockin’ destination.

El Chante is located at the Third Floor, 8456 Dona Carmen Street corner Kalayaan Avenue, Poblacion, Makati City, open Sundays too Thursdays from 8pm to 5am and Fridays to Saturdays from 8pm to 7am. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 995 8651999 or +63 917 6395487.

Photo Credit: Alex of BoyEatWorldPH for the barkada shot.