Casa Crawford’s flavorful Tex-Mex creations delivered to your doorstep

If there’s one thing that unites food lovers around the world, it’s the sheer joy of indulging in comfort food. For Filipino television host and singer Billy Crawford and his wife, fellow host Coleen Garcia, this passion for comfort led them to embark on a flavorful journey in the world of Tex-Mex cuisine.

In 2021, in the midst of the global pandemic, they introduced Casa Crawford, a cloud kitchen that brings the heartwarming flavors of Mexican comfort food directly to your doorstep.

Casa Crawford’s Tex-Mex Creations

Casa Crawford’s dedication to flavor is matched by the comfort its creations bring to Tex-Mex food lovers. These include:

Nachos (Php249). Who would say no to a plate piled high with crispy flour tortilla chips, generously topped with succulent pork carnitas, velvety cheese sauce, zesty pico de gallo, and a hint of pickles for that perfect tang? These nachos are more than just an appetizer; they’re a symphony of textures and flavors that turn any gathering into a fiesta. It’s perfect for game day gatherings – adding a burst of flavor to the thrill of the game – or for virtual gatherings – a sure crowd-pleaser when your family and friends come together to catch up over good food.

Casa Crawford
Casa Crawford
Casa Crawford
Casa Crawford

Quesa-Birria Rice Bowl (Php399). When comfort meets creativity, you get Casa Crawford’s Quesa-Birria Rice Bowl. Bolzico Beef Birria meat, slow-cooked to tender perfection, is paired with a lavish serving of cheese sauce, all atop aromatic Mexican rice. It’s a dish that wraps you in a warm embrace, offering not only a satisfying meal but also a reminder of the power of comfort food. Reach for this bowl when you’ve got late-night cravings or when you want to treat yourself to something new and tasty.

Casa Crawford
Casa Crawford
Casa Crawford
Casa Crawford

Taco Pork Sisig (Php239). Prepare for a delightful fusion of cultures with Casa Crawford’s Taco Pork Sisig. This innovative creation combines the beloved Filipino dish pork sisig—featuring crunchy sisg bits topped with fresh veggies with a squeeze of tangy calamansi encased in soft tortilla. The result? A tantalizing marriage of savory and spicy flavors that takes your taste buds on a global journey. Make your weeknight dinners extra-special with this fantastic twist to a classic ulam.

Casa Crawford
Casa Crawford
Casa Crawford
Casa Crawford
The Perfect Blend of Comfort and Convenience

At the heart of Casa Crawford’s success lies their commitment to providing comfort and convenience. Billy and Coleen share a vision of offering reasonably-priced, flavorful food that effortlessly bridges the gap between nostalgia and innovation.

In a world that’s constantly evolving, one thing remains unchanged—the universal love for delectable comfort food. With Casa Crawford, you don’t need to venture far to savor the authentic flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine.

Casa Crawford
Casa Crawford
Casa Crawford
Casa Crawford

From nachos that elevate your gatherings to the Quesa-Birria Rice Bowl that wraps you in comfort, and the Taco Pork Sisig that explores new culinary horizons, Casa Crawford’s offerings are designed to cater to your cravings, one delectable bite at a time.

To get your hands on these Tex-Mex delicacies, simply course your order through GrabFood or FoodPanda.

Stay updated on Casa Crawford’s menu and offers by following it on Facebook and Instagram.

Disclosure: Product samples were provided to facilitate this feature story.

Get your Japanese food fix from Katsu-Sama: Japan at your doorstep

As the rainy season casts a shadow over outdoor plans and traffic jams make venturing out a daunting task, there’s no need to compromise when you crave for Japanese food.

You won’t need to leave the comfort of your home or the convenience of your office when you want to savor the delicious flavors of Japan. Thanks to Katsu-Sama, a Japanese food delivery service, you can enjoy delectable Japanese cutlets and more, without stepping foot outside.

Katsu-Sama’s Solo Offerings

Katsu-Sama’s Solo Meals are perfect for a satisfying solo dining experience. For just Php259, you can indulge in a delectable combination of Meat and Rice. Choose from an array of mouthwatering viands, including Pork Katsu, Chicken Katsu, Pork Katsudon, Chicken Katsudon, Gyudon, or Chicken Karaage.

Katsu-Sama
Katsu-Sama
Katsu-Sama
Katsu-Sama

How About an Upgrade?

Enhance your Solo Meal experience with affordable upgrades. For an additional Php69, you can add a refreshing beverage to your order. Choose from House-blend Iced Tea, Green Apple Iced Tea, or Lychee Iced Tea. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, why not upgrade your rice to Kimchi rice for just Php39?

The Super Meal: A Hearty Feast

When hunger strikes with a vengeance, go for Katsu-Sama’s Super Meal. For only Php599, you’ll be treated to an expansive feast, featuring your choice of meat (either Pork Katsu or Chicken Katsu), Gyudon, a Large Rice, Miso Soup and your preferred Iced Tea.

Katsu-Sama
Katsu-Sama
Katsu-Sama
Katsu-Sama

Customization and Add-ons

At Katsu-Sama, the power of customization lies in your hands. Enhance your meal by selecting from an array of add-ons such as soft drinks, Japanese mayo, fried egg, and more. This level of personalization allows you to create the perfect Japanese culinary experience tailored to your preferences without burning a hole through your wallet.

Japan at Home

Embrace the feeling of Japan at your doorstep with Katsu-Sama’s delectable offerings. Craving a Japanese cutlet? Katsu-Sama’s Solo Meals are meticulously crafted to bring the taste of Japan’s street food to your dining table. The convenience of ordering from home means you don’t have to brave the rain or navigate through heavy traffic just to enjoy a scrumptious meal.

Katsu-Sama
Katsu-Sama
Katsu-Sama
Katsu-Sama

Japan at the Office

In the hustle and bustle of the workday, treat yourself and your colleagues to a delightful Japanese lunch without leaving the office. Katsu-Sama’s delivery service offers a practical solution for satisfying your cravings during those busy work hours. With options like the Yokozuna Feast, designed for groups of four, or the Katsu Platter to Share, ideal for groups of eight, you can share the joy of Japan’s culinary wonders with your colleagues.

Branches and Delivery Options

With branches located at Katipunan, Aurora Boulevard, San Juan, Sheridan, and Mall of Asia, Katsu-Sama ensures that Japan’s culinary delights are accessible to Japanese food enthusiasts all over the metro. Whether you’re residing or working near these areas, you can conveniently enjoy Katsu-Sama’s offerings.

Plus, the hassle-free delivery service via Grabfood and FoodPanda brings Japan to your doorstep with just a few taps on your phone.

Katsu-Sama
Katsu-Sama
Katsu-Sama
Katsu-Sama

When the rainy season or a busy workday confines you to the comfort of your home or office, know that you can always count on the Kastu Master, Katsu-Sama to come to your aid and bring you yummy and affordable Japanese fare.

Know more about Katsu-Sama’s menu and offers by following it on Facebook and Instagram.

Disclosure: Product samples were provided to facilitate this feature.

Simplify your back-to-school season with these essentials on Amazon

The beginning of a new school year is an exciting time for students as they embark on new learning adventures, but for us parents, it can be a season of stress and overwhelming responsibilities. One of the primary challenges that we face during this time is ensuring that our children have all the essentials they need for a successful school year. For me, sometimes, finding the right products can become a daunting task. However, there’s a smarter and more convenient way to tackle this annual back-to-school shopping frenzy – Amazon.

The Convenience of Back-to-School Shopping on Amazon

Amazon, the world’s largest online marketplace, has revolutionized the way we shop, and back-to-school season is no exception. With just a few clicks, parents can access a vast array of products, making it a one-stop-shop for all their back-to-school needs. Say goodbye to long queues and crowded stores; Amazon offers the ultimate shopping convenience for busy parents.

Top 10 Back-to-School Essentials on Amazon

To kickstart your back-to-school shopping, here are ten essential products available on Amazon that will ease the transition and set your kids up for a successful school year.

Durable Backpacks with Ergonomic Design. Sturdy backpacks designed to evenly distribute weight, reducing strain on children’s shoulders and backs, is crucial for carrying books and school supplies without discomfort.

High-Quality Stationery Sets. Comprehensive sets featuring pens, pencils, erasers, sharpeners, and more ensure that your children are well-equipped for note-taking and creative tasks.

Trendy Lunch Boxes and Water Bottles. Insulated lunch boxes and spill-proof water bottles in fun designs encourage healthy eating habits.

Reliable Scientific Calculators. Advanced calculators suitable for older students’ complex mathematical needs are perfect for high schoolers and college-bound students taking advanced math courses.

Organizational Planners and Notebooks. Planners and notebooks with sections for class schedules, assignments, and personal notes help the kiddos stay organized and productive throughout the school year.

Noise-Canceling Headphones. Headphones that minimize distractions during study sessions or online classes are ideal for creating a focused learning environment, especially in busy households.

Comfortable Desk Chairs. Ergonomic chairs with proper lumbar support promote good posture and prevents discomfort during long study hours.

USB Drives. High-capacity USB drives for storing and transferring important digital files ensure that your child’s schoolwork is always accessible and backed up securely.

Interactive Educational Globes. Interactive globes spark curiosity and help children understand geography, countries, and cultures in an immersive way. It’s a fantastic addition to any home or classroom.

Inspiring Educational Posters. Colorful and informative posters for decorating study spaces enhance the learning environment and make studying more engaging.

While this list gives you an idea of what to secure for your children this back-to-school season, be sure to keep an eye out for other back-to-school deals on Amazon which can save you some money.

Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to be stressful; Amazon simplifies the process and offers an extensive selection of essential products for your children’s educational journey. The convenience and variety of products on Amazon will make this back-to-school season a breeze. Embrace the ease of online shopping, and ensure your children have all they need to excel academically and enjoy their learning experience to the fullest!

Want to make the most out of your Amazon.com purchases? Sign up for an Amazon Prime membership and enjoy these exclusive benefits:

  • Fast and free delivery. Get two-day, next-day or same-day delivery to a US address for millions of items.
  • Exclusive member deals. Enjoy savings when you shop through exclusive discounts on thousands of items.
  • Amazon Photos. Enjoy unlimited photo storage and 5GB video storage.
  • Prime Video. Get access to fresh movies releases and original award-winning Amazon productions.
  • Prime Reading. Get access to a rotating catalogue of e-books and audio books including one free pre-release book every month from editor’s picks.
  • and more!

Header image by Lifestylememory on Freepik

#ShareTheSpice with Chowking’s new fiery delight: Introducing the Spicy Chao Fan

Indulging in delicious and affordable Chinese cuisine has always been a delightful experience for Pinoy foodies. In its quest to tantalize taste buds and ignite culinary adventures, Chowking, the leading chain of Chinese quick-service restaurants specializing in Filipino-Chinese cuisine, has introduced its newest masterpiece: the Spicy Chao Fan, ready to take you on a spicy flavor journey that will leave you craving for more.

Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
A Celebration of Spice: The Grand Launch

Chowking recently held an exhilarating product launch event for its Spicy Chao Fan at the prestigious Atrium of Enderun Colleges, nestled in the vibrant McKinley Hill of Taguig City. The air was charged with anticipation as Chowking’s esteemed celebrity ambassador, the charming Kim Chiu, graced the occasion. With her infectious energy and love for Chinese cuisine, Kim Chiu took center stage to present the fiery sensation to an enthusiastic audience of media and fans. The event, aptly billed #ShareTheSpice, marked the beginning of an unforgettable adventure in flavor.

Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Chowking: A Legacy of Flavorful Fusion

Chowking has become a household name, combining the best of Filipino and Chinese flavors into delectable creations. With over 600 branches across the Philippines and a presence in the United States, Canada, and Saudi Arabia, Chowking has established itself as a leader in the highly competitive fast-food industry. Renowned for its affordability and an extensive menu featuring Chinese favorites, such as Beef Wonton Noodles, Lauriat, and Siopao, Chowking has captured the hearts and palates of millions.

Introducing the Spicy Chao Fan: A Fiery Twist to a Classic Delight

Prepare to ignite your taste buds with the Spicy Chao Fan, Chowking’s newest sensation that takes the beloved stir-fried rice dish to new heights of spiciness. Crafted with precision, this flavorful delight combines day-old rice, a medley of crisp vegetables including carrots, peas, and onions, and meat for that signature Wok-Sarap flavor. Stir-fried to perfection in a wok and seasoned with a tantalizing blend of sauces and seasonings, and just the right amount of salt and pepper, each bite delivers a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Chowking Spicy Chao Fan

“When we were creating the Spicy Chao Fan, we deliberately wanted it to have the right level of spice that everyone can enjoy. It’s not soicy for spicy’s sake, it has just the right Spicy Wok-Sarap kick that will leave you wanting more,” said Jonathan de Quitoz, Chowking Brand Director for Chao Fan and Brand Operations.

Kim Chiu: The Perfect Spicy Companion

In the world of showbiz, one name stands out as the perfect embodiment of charisma and relatability: Kim Chiu. Known for her captivating performances in television shows and movies, Kim Chiu has captured the hearts of Filipinos with her infectious energy and genuine love for food. As Chowking’s beloved celebrity ambassador, Kim Chiu’s vibrant personality, spicy charm and way of reinventing herself make her the perfect match for the Spicy Chao Fan. Her presence adds an extra layer of excitement and authenticity to Chowking’s newest creation.

Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Savor the Spice, Anytime, Anywhere

Craving a fiery feast? Whether you prefer the cozy ambiance of dine-in, the convenience of take-out, the on-the-go experience of drive-thru or the sheer ease of ordering online or via the Chowking App, Chowking has got you covered. The Spicy Chao Fan is available at a Chowking branch near you, ready to be savored at your convenience. Gather your friends, bring your appetite, and embark on a taste adventure that will leave you craving for more.

#ShareTheSpice Challenge

During the event, Kim Chiu also introduced the #ShareTheSpice Challenge. For a chance to win gift certificates and special prizes from Chowking, all you have to do are:

  • Try the Spicy Chao Fan.
  • Post about it on any social media platform with the hashtag #ShareTheSpice and #SpicyChaoFan.
  • Tag two of your friends who you want to share the spice with.
Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Chowking Spicy Chao Fan
Chowking’s Commitment to Excellence

Beyond delivering mouthwatering flavors, Chowking takes pride in its commitment to customer service, quality, and sustainability. Recognized for its dedication to excellence, Chowking ensures that every dining experience is a memorable one. From the warm smiles of their staff to the cleanliness of their establishments, Chowking goes the extra mile to create an atmosphere that resonates with their customers.

Ignite Your Senses with Chowking’s Spicy Chao Fan

Get ready to ignite your taste buds and embark on a thrilling culinary journey with Chowking’s Spicy Chao Fan. This fiery twist on a classic stir-fried rice dish combines affordability, flavor, and an unmistakable touch of spice. From the grand launch featuring the vibrant Kim Chiu to the legacy of excellence behind Chowking, every element comes together to create an unforgettable experience. So, head to your nearest Chowking branch, and let the Spicy Chao Fan take you on a mouthwatering adventure you won’t soon forget.

To know more about its menu and offers, follow Chowking on Facebook and Instagram.

Why a staycation is the perfect romantic getaway

When couples think of romantic destinations where they can spend much-needed time together, places like Paris, Santorini, and Bali usually come to mind. Beautiful city skylines and beautiful island getaways make excellent backdrops for a romantic getaway since they create the perfect ambiance that helps couples focus on their relationship without a care in the world. 

Unfortunately, planning for a romantic getaway usually takes a lot of time to prepare and costs a lot of money. And, for a lot of couples, they simply don’t have the time or budget to make their dream couple’s vacation a reality. Luckily, couples can still create their perfect romantic getaway without having to travel far or break the bank by choosing to go on a staycation at home or in a nearby hotel. 

Staycation, which combines the words “stay” and “vacation”, has become increasingly popular not only for singles but for a lot of couples as well. For one thing, staycations give couples the freedom to spend their vacation days however they want without having to worry about following a schedule. It also gives them an incredible opportunity to strengthen and deepen their relationship. 

But how exactly can a staycation achieve this? First, let’s delve into the advantages of a romantic staycation and how it can transform your romantic life.

The Advantages

A romantic staycation carries many benefits, some of which may surprise you. Here are some of the advantages of having a romantic staycation at home or a hotel that’s close by:

Comfort and Convenience

Staycations allow you to bypass the stress and fatigue that often comes with traveling. If you’re living in Manila, for example, it’s easier to have a staycation in Pasay or at home because you don’t have to spend long hours in transit or to adjust to a new environment. Instead, you can enjoy the comfort and familiarity of your hometown, making it easier to relax and focus on each other.

Flexibility

Unlike a traditional vacation, where itineraries can be rigid and crowded with various activities, a staycation gives you the freedom to set your own pace. Want to have breakfast in bed at noon or watch movies until the early hours? With a staycation, you can.

Affordability

A staycation can be a more budget-friendly romantic getaway. It eliminates expenses like airfare, expensive meals, and tourist traps, freeing up your budget for other special treats like a fancy take-out dinner or even splurging on a high-end local hotel for a night.

Quality Time

Perhaps the most significant advantage of a staycation is the opportunity to spend quality, uninterrupted time together. Without the distractions and demands often associated with travel, you and your significant other can connect on a deeper level and strengthen your relationship even further.

A Bit of Planning Goes a Long Way

A romantic staycation may be a dream come true, but a bit of planning can take it to the next level. Here are some ideas you can try to turn up the romance level of your staycation to a hundred:

Setting the Mood

Create a romantic atmosphere to make your staycation feel special. This could be as simple as cleaning and decluttering your space, lighting scented candles, or setting up fairy lights for a cozy ambiance. Don’t forget to prepare a playlist of your favorite songs to set the mood.

Food and Drinks

One of the highlights of any vacation is trying new and exciting food. For your staycation, consider ordering from a restaurant you’ve always wanted to try or cooking a special meal together. Pair it with your favorite wine or try making homemade cocktails.

Disconnecting from Routine

To make your staycation truly feel like a romantic getaway, it’s important to disconnect from your regular routine. This means setting an out-of-office email, turning off message notifications, and putting off household chores. Make this time purely about enjoying each other’s company.

The Variety of Romantic Staycation Activities

To make the most of your romantic staycation, it’s a great idea to plan some activities that can enhance your experience and promote bonding. Whether you decide to stay at home or book a hotel room, there are plenty of enjoyable things you can do together. Here are some activities that you might consider to make your romantic staycation more memorable:

Cooking or Baking Together

If you’re at home, try cooking or baking a new recipe together. This not only allows you to enjoy a delicious meal or treat but it also gives you the chance to create shared memories.

Movie Marathon

Choose a series of movies or binge-watch a new series together. To make the experience even more romantic, you can create a cozy atmosphere with dimmed lights, comfortable pillows, and your favorite snacks. This can be done both at home or in a hotel, making it a versatile option.

Game Night

Whether you’re at home or in a hotel, setting up a game night can be a lot of fun. Bring out classic board games, card games, or even video games you both enjoy, and your time spent together will be filled with laughter and playful banter.

DIY Spa Day

You can transform your bathroom into the ultimate spa by simply placing scented candles on the bathroom counter and using aromatherapy sprays. You can even make bath time more romantic by adding some bath salts or throwing in a bath bomb in the tub. When the ambiance is set, you can enjoy a relaxing bath together, give each other massages, or try out new skincare products. This can be a special treat, particularly if you’re in a hotel with a beautiful bathtub.

In a world where we are constantly on the go, a staycation offers a refreshing change of pace. It’s a chance to slow down, appreciate the simple things, and focus on the one you love. With the right planning and mindset, a staycation can provide you with all the joy, relaxation, and romantic connections of a traditional vacation without the hassle.

Get lucky with GCash: Win up to Php 100,000 every week!

GCash Lucky Load is back and better than ever! Get ready for a chance to win big this 2023 with this exciting promo. As a GCash user in NCR, North Luzon, South Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, you have the opportunity to win up to Php 100,000 every week from the Lucky Load draw.

To participate in the promo, all you have to do is purchase at least Php 50 worth of mobile, broadband, or non-telco load on the GCash app. This automatically earns you one ticket to join the Lucky Load promo.

There are three ways to access your tickets: by clicking on the pop-up banner after purchasing load, checking the Lucky Load notification in your GCash inbox, or tapping the Lucky Load icon in the Enjoy section of your app menu.

To play GCash Lucky Load, select 6 icons from the roster of 30 and submit your ticket entry. The winning Lucky Load combination will be announced every Monday, and all winners for the week will be announced on the GCash app and Facebook page every Tuesday.

This year, a grand pot prize of Php 100,000 per broad region will be given out every week by GCash:

  • 6 matched Icons – NCR (Php 100,000)
  • 6 matched Icons – North Luzon (Php 100,000)
  • 6 matched Icons – South Luzon (Php 100,000)
  • 6 matched Icons – Visayas (Php 100,000)
  • 6 matched Icons – Mindanao (Php 100,000)

If you’re the only winner who matches all 6 icons, you’ll win the entire Php 100,000 prize pool in your region! And if there are no winners for the week in all regions, the pot prize will be carried over onto the next draw the following week.

With GCash, buying load and staying connected is now even more convenient, plus you have a chance to win bigger prizes! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be the next lucky winner. Download the GCash app from the App Store or Google Play today.

Promo runs until July 31, 2023.

About GCash

GCash (G-Xchange, Inc.) is the #1 Finance App in the Philippines. Through the GCash App, 79M registered users can easily purchase prepaid airtime; pay bills at over 1,600 partner billers nationwide; send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts; purchase from over 5.2M partner merchants and social sellers; and get access to savings, credit, loans, insurance and invest money, and so much more, all at the convenience of their smartphones. GCash is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt (Globe Fintech Innovations, Inc.), the first and only duacorn in the Philippines.

GCash was recognized by The Asian Banker (TAB) and by the IDC in 2021 for its outstanding digital financial inclusion programs.