Savor the Flavors: A Despedida to Remember at The Perfect Pint, Estancia Mall

A despedida can be a mix of emotions, but at The Perfect Pint: Craft Beer + Fine Food in Estancia, Capitol Commons, we made sure it was more of a celebration than a farewell. The newly opened branch in April 2024 welcomed us with its sleek, modern-industrial interiors and a craft brewery right inside the restaurant. Whether you prefer dining al fresco or want the privacy of a reserved room, The Perfect Pint has you covered. It’s more than just a place to eat and drink—it’s where you “Celebrate life one pint at a time.”

The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia

Feasting First: Satisfy Your Appetite

Before we dived into the beers, we let our taste buds lead the way. We kicked off the evening with The Perfect Pint’s legendary Kapampangan Sisig (₱480). Served sizzling hot, this dish brought all the savory, tangy flavors you’d expect from a classic sisig. The crispy bits and perfectly balanced seasoning made it an instant crowd favorite. Next up was the towering Onion Ring Tower (₱410). This stack of crunchy, golden onion rings was both a visual treat and a delicious snack to share. Paired with its accompanying dips, it was the perfect precursor to the hearty dishes that followed.

The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia

For our main course, we couldn’t resist the Perfect Pint Pizza (₱550). Loaded with homemade meatballs, peppers, salami, onions, bacon, and topped with a sunny-side-up egg, this pizza was a flavor-packed bite of indulgence. The Mushroom and Truffle Pasta (₱450) added a touch of elegance to the meal, with its earthy, creamy notes providing a satisfying contrast to the richness of the pizza.

The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia

The TPP Sausage Platter (₱1,110) stole the show, though. This carnivore’s dream came loaded with a variety of juicy, herbed, and spiced sausages, perfect for sharing. And let’s not forget the Crispy Pork Knuckles (₱970)—a glorious rendition of the Pinoy classic Crispy Pata, it’s a dish of oven-braised, deep-fried pork knuckles that was crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and paired with a tangy mango salad and Tom Yum dip.

The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia

No despedida is complete without dessert, and the Mango Crêpe Samurai (₱320) was the sweet finale our night deserved. Light, fluffy, and filled with a delightful combination of mango, custard, caramel, and crêpe, it provided a refreshing contrast to the richness of our earlier dishes.

The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia

Time to Toast: Discovering Craft Beers

After indulging in the food, it was time to explore the craft beers that The Perfect Pint is known for. The Beer Flight (₱390) was the perfect introduction—a tasting tray of four different brews, fresh from the taps. This sampler allowed the beer lovers in our group to appreciate the variety and complexity of The Perfect Pint’s in-house creations, from crisp and refreshing ales to robust stouts.

The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia

For those who prefer something darker, the Dunkel (₱230 / ₱320) was a hit. This wheat beer’s roasted notes, complemented by hints of banana and caramel, made it a smooth and satisfying choice. It paired beautifully with the heavier dishes, enhancing every bite.

The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia

The Perfect Pint’s craft beers aren’t just an afterthought—they’re meticulously brewed in small batches to ensure every glass delivers on flavor. With awards from the Asia Beer Championships under their belt, it’s clear that The Perfect Pint takes their brewing seriously.

Celebrate Life, One Pint at a Time

Throughout the night, The Perfect Pint exceeded our expectations, seamlessly blending food and beer into an unforgettable dining experience. From the thoughtfully curated dishes to the carefully crafted beers, everything worked in harmony to create moments of pure enjoyment.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just catching up with friends, The Perfect Pint in Estancia offers a dining experience that’s hard to beat. The combination of great food, exceptional craft beer, and a welcoming atmosphere ensures that every visit feels like a celebration.

The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia
The Perfect Pint, Estancia

So, next time you’re in Capitol Commons, make sure to stop by The Perfect Pint. Raise a glass, enjoy the food, and celebrate life one pint at a time.

This branch of The Perfect Pint is located at the Ground Floor, East Wing, Estancia Mall, Capitol Commons, Meralco Avenue, Barangay Oranbo, Pasig City. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 917 6249537.

Other branches are located at:

  • Molito Lifestyle Building, Madrigal Avenue, Alabang
  • The Proscenium Retail Row, Rockwell Center, Makati

Know more about The Perfect Pint: Craft Beer + Fine Food by visiting its website or following it on Facebook and Instagram.

Toasting to Freedom and Flavor with Liberator Lager at Cafe Romulo

In the annals of Philippine history, the name Carlos P. Romulo is etched in golden letters. This journalist, diplomat, and the first Asian to serve as president of the UN General Assembly left an indelible mark on our nation. His legacy endures through the prestigious restaurant chain operated by his descendants, Romulo Café. But this isn’t your ordinary dining experience; it’s a culinary journey through history and heritage.

At Romulo Café, every dish tells a story. Their recipes pay tribute to Virginia Llamas Romulo, the grandmother behind Romulo Café’s culinary treasures. Known for her exotic table settings and delectable food when hosting embassy dinners where her husband marshalled for full Philippine independence, Lola Virginia was a paragon of hospitality. Her legacy is carried forward in Romulo Café’s commitment to Filipino cuisine.

Cafe Romulo’s Makati Branch

As Romulo Café expands its footprint, it’s hard to miss the swanky Makati branch on Jupiter Street. This branch is the sophisticated sibling of the first outpost in Quezon City. Ivy and Cecile Almario, the acclaimed designers, have lent their artistic touch to create an ambiance that’s both classy and relaxed.

Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo

The Makati branch offers a curated experience which transports visitors to the different facets of Carlos P. Romulo’s illustrious life. With walls adorned with framed black-and-white photos of Romulo, both with his family and alongside other political and historical luminaries, the restaurant provides immersive journey through Philippine history.

Liberator Lager: Fulfill Your Promise

And in this location, on the anniversary of a very important date in Philippine history, another historic first is introduced: Liberator Lager. This refreshing beer, available exclusively at Romulo Café branches, is the result of a collaboration with Engkanto Brewery. It’s not just any beer; it’s a promise fulfilled, a homage to the indomitable spirit of the Filipino people.

Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo

Brewed using the finest Pilsner malt and American hops, Liberator Lager is a masterpiece that embodies the flavors of freedom. It has just the right balance of malt sweetness and a subtle tropical profile with hints of citrus, passionfruit, and melon. With every sip, you’re tasting history and honor.

The launch of Liberator Lager holds a special place in the hearts of the Romulo family. It coincided with the anniversary of the Leyte Landing, a momentous event in Philippine history. General Douglas MacArthur’s promise of “I shall return” was fulfilled on this day. Carlos P. Romulo played a pivotal role in ensuring the freedom of the Philippines, delivering speeches in America during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines in 1944 to keep the U.S. focus on the Pacific. It’s a part of history that deserves to be celebrated.

Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo

Liberator Lager pairs exceptionally well with Cafe Romulo’s menu items, enhancing the flavors and experience. Try it with their delectable bar chows and appetizers like Chicharon Bulaklak, Pinoy Nachos, Laing & Chorizo Dip with Pandesal Cheese, or the feisty Super Lolo dumpling filled with laing.

Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo

For mains, the Sotanghon Guisado, Oven Baked Crispy Pata, and Gising-Gising are all excellent choices. Liberator Lager’s refreshing taste complements the hearty, satisfying dishes on Romulo Café’s menu.

Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo

So whether you’re enjoying some downtime after a hard day’s work, or getting together with friends and family, why don’t you celebrate those moments – along with flavor and freedom – with great Filipino food and Liberator Lager at Romulo Cafe?

Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo
Liberator Lager by Cafe Romulo

This Romulo Cafe branch is located at 148 Jupiter corner Comet Street, Barangay Bel-Air, Makati City, open daily from 11am to 9pm. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 86919069, +63 84786406 or
+63 917 1523814.

Other branches are located at:

  • 32 Scout Dr. Lazcano St corner Scout Tuazon, Barangay Laging Handa, Tomas Morato, Quezon City (Tel: +63 2 83327273 | +63 2 83327275 | +63 917 1522755)
  • Azumi Boutique Hotel, 2205 Market Street, Alabang, Muntinlupa City (Tel: +63 2 85561443 | +63 917 1826226)
  • Unit L218, 2nd Floor, One Bonifacio High Street Mall, 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig (Tel: +63 2 79106487 |+ 63 917 5768886)

Know more about its menu and offers by visiting its website or following Romulo Cafe on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous post about Romulo Cafe:

Raise your glasses to MNL Beerfest 2023

Craft beer lovers, the moment you’ve been waiting for is here! The MNL Beerfest is back and bubbling with excitement, slated to run from October 13th to 15th at the picturesque Capitol Commons Park in Pasig City. With its doors open from 4 pm to midnight for three consecutive days, this year’s festival is brewing up something truly exceptional for all you beer enthusiasts.

A Symphony of Craft Beer

The MNL Beerfest is more than just a gathering; it’s a celebration of the artistry and innovation that flows through the craft beer community, both locally and internationally. This festival is a stage where the creativity of craft brewers is spotlighted, where their finest concoctions, from IPAs to stouts, lagers to sours, are put on display for all to savor. It’s a testament to the dedication and passion of these artisans, and it’s supported wholeheartedly by the vendors and patrons of local craft breweries.

An Experience for All Palates

No matter where you stand on your beer journey – a seasoned craft beer connoisseur or a newcomer, the MNL Beerfest has a treat in store for you. It’s a playground for your taste buds, an opportunity to explore and indulge in a diverse range of flavors and aromas.

Festival Highlights

  • Craft Beer Tastings: Immerse yourself in an extensive selection of beers, featuring both local craft breweries and imported treasures. It’s a chance to discover new favorites or rediscover old ones.
  • Gourmet Food: While the stars of the show are undoubtedly the beers, don’t miss out on the mouthwatering food offerings from a variety of local vendors. The perfect complement to your beer adventure.
  • Vibrant Venue: The festival unfolds against the stunning backdrop of Capitol Commons Park, nestled beside Estancia, a lifestyle mall that offers a world of shopping and entertainment right across the street. It’s the ideal setting to enjoy great beer, delicious food, and good company.

Words from the Organizer

Cherry S. Genato, Festival Organizer, shared her excitement about the event: “The MNL Beerfest regularly brings Beer festivals to the public to give Local Craft beer breweries an event to showcase craftsmanship and creativity that goes into making craft beer. We’re excited to bring together beer enthusiasts, brewers, and food lovers for a day filled with great beer, delicious food, and a fantastic crowd.”

Tickets and Information

Tickets are your key to this beer wonderland, priced at just Php 500 each. With each ticket, you’ll receive 2 drink servings and unlimited beer tastings from select beer vendors throughout the night. You can secure your tickets in advance via the festival’s Viber Community – MNL BeerFest or purchase them at the venue on the event dates. Please note that attendees must be 18 years or older to enter the beer festival.

Stay in the Know

For the latest updates on the festival, participating breweries, and vendors, be sure to visit the official MNL BEERFEST Facebook Account at FB Page Link.

Join the festival’s Viber Community here: Viber Link.

So, mark your calendars and get ready for a memorable beer adventure at MNL Beerfest this October! Cheers to craft beer excellence!

Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits celebrates POUR years

In heaven there is no beer, (no beer!)
That’s why we drink it here (right here!)
And when we’re gone from here,
Our friends will be drinking all our beer!

Well, I couldn’t posit on the unavailability of booze past the Pearly Gates, but I do know a place where good ales abound that it’s sheer heaven to beer lovers: Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits.

Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits

This nano-brewery and pub hidden away in the Quezon City suburbs is known for producing high-quality craft beers, hard ciders and hard seltzers while incorporating sugars from local fruits such as mangoes, dalandan, guava and guyabano, readily available on tap for customers thirsting for their favorite beverage and a good time with friends.

Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits

Elias came about when owner and certified beer sommelier Raoul Masangkay brought home the wealth of knowledge on the art and science of fermented drinks that he developed in the US as well as his award-winning craft beer recipes back home to Manila.

Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits

Here, expert and budding beer connoisseurs can enjoy artisanal beverages, brewed for six hours, fermented in small batches for four weeks, re-carbonated for four days before bottling, resulting to artisanal beers that have a a clear and sparkling appearance as well as a clean and distinct taste. These can be enjoyed by the bottle, on tap or in tasting flights.

Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Bright Side Very Berry
(hard seltzer)
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Lost in Japan
(white ale)
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Pwedeee Guava
(hard cider)
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Supa Fly
(India pale ale)
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Darker Vader
(stout)
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Tasting Flight: Half Full (ale), Hop Boi (IPA), Rose Rizal (hard cider), Swabe Raspberry (hard cider)

Of course, beer is best enjoyed with some chows. Fortunately, Elias offers mouth-watering pulutan with a twist that make swillin’ your booze so much more fun.

Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Pulled Pork Nachos
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Honey Glazed Wings
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Pride Chicken
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Wicked Sisig
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Crispy Pata
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits

Plus, in celebration of its four years in the business, Elias launched an epic three-day celebration called POUR Years. From April 22 to 24, customers can enjoy unlimited refills of over twenty types of craft beers, hard ciders and hard seltzers on tap for just Php1000, plus daily specials:

  • Apr 22 (Fri): Libis Nights Throwback with DJs Simon Castro, Jeano and Mike Tan
  • Apr 23 (Sat): Acoustic Rockeoke
  • Apr 24 (Sun): Unli Wings
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits

So now’s definitely the time to join the outpouring of fun, plus happy times with good food and great friends, and, of course, our favorite booze, while we still can, right? Just in case it’s true that in heaven, there is no beer, we should definitely drink it all here!

Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits is located at 13 Ubay Street, Santa Mesa Heights, Quezon City, open daily from 3pm to 1am. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 926 6179030 or check out its beverage at food menu at www.wickedelias.com.

Disclosure: I attended a food tasting for media held at this establishment. Food and beverage items mentioned here were served at no cost to the attendees.

#TasteMagic at Salamangka, Eastwood City

Salamangka translates to “sleight of hand” in Tagalog. It is a word wrapped in magic and mystery, calling to mind enchantment and wonder.

The restaurant and bar in Eastwood Citywalk that bears that name lives up to it by offering coffee, cocktails and craft beer, as well as its own reimagining of Filipino food, against a welcoming backdrop laden with a hefty dose of mystical appeal.

Salamangka, Eastwood

Together with my foodie friends from #WeLoveToEatPH and #SaanSaPH, I stepped inside Salamangka’s doors for a taste of magic.

In the late morning, Salamangka is awash with light, the black murals of mythical creatures and the balete tree on the wall wonderfully offset by the clean white background. Furniture made with native materials and a huge table and bench set made from solid pieces of wood provide ample seating for the diners.

Salamangka, Eastwood
Salamangka, Eastwood
Salamangka, Eastwood
Salamangka, Eastwood

Salamangka’s menu consists of its own take of classic Filipino dishes, such as:

Kamote Chips (Php199). Crispy deep-fried slices of of sweet potatoes that go so well with its dip of condensed milk reduction.

Salamangka, Eastwood

Piknik (Php199). Crispy hand-cut potato slivers served with three different sauces (but they’re ok without the sauce as evidenced by the way I keep popping them into my mouth, hehehe!)

Salamangka, Eastwood City

Coca Cola Wings (Php259). Fried chicken wings simmered in a Coca Cola reduction and served with piknik.

Salamangka, Eastwood

Itlog na Maalat Wings (Php349). Fried chicken wings covered in a sauce of salted eggs and served with piknik.

Salamangka, Eastwood City

Vegan Nachos (Php199). Toasted pita chips topped with ground tofu and drizzled with a mixture of Yummza pesto hummus, lemon and oil. Live a little and add Php20 for additional topping of grated cheese.

Salamangka, Eastwood City

Tinapa (Php189). A bowl of smokey tinapa flakes on top of garlic rice and paired with salted egg, a side of tomatoes and burong mangga.

Salamangka, Eastwood
Salamangka, Eastwood

Bawang na Bangus (Php189). Fried bangus marinated in garlic served on top of garlic rice with salted egg and atsara.

Salamangka, Eastwood
Salamangka, Eastwood

Sinigang sa Manggang Hilaw (Php279). Beef sinigang with a sour sauce instead of broth on top of steamed rice and served with sour mango and bagoong.

Salamangka, Eastwood City

Once you’ve eaten your fill, how about lettin’ loose and sampling Salamangka’s much celebrated alcholic concoctions? Impress your friends with your knowledge of native folklore when you identify the entities that give their name to these intense spirits.

Salamangka, Eastwood City

Wakwak (Php99 per glass | Php349 per pitcher). Named after a vampiric bird-like creature that makes the noise “wak-wak” as it flaps its wings, this cocktail is mixture of rum, lime juice, mango puree and mint leaves.

Mambabarang (Php99 per glass | Php349 per pitcher). Made with gin, lime juice, cucumber slices and mint leaves, this cocktail got its name from the warlock or sorceress that cast malevolent hexes on people

Ibong Adarna (Php99 per glass | Php349 per pitcher). Named after the mythical bird whose song has healing qualities, this drink is made with tequila, pineapple, calamansi and chili placed in a salt-rimmed glass. A sip of this drink is multi-layered: you get the citrus flavor from the calamansi, the spiciness from the chili, the saltiness from the rimmed glass and the fire of the tequila as it travels down your throat.

What really got me excited was Pitong Elemento (Php350). A flight of seven intense native infusions inspired by legendary elementals, this consists of seven shot glasses of flavored spirits that pack quite a punch.

  • Duwende (dried mango rhum – named after the mischievous house spirit)
  • Sigbin (orange vodka – named after the mythical creature that suck its victims’ blood from the shadows)
  • Kibaan (raisin gin – named after the mythical creature that lead travelers astray with its backward feet)
  • Tiyanak (Thai chili tequila – named after the creature that takes the form of a crying baby to attack folks who pick it up)
  • Undin (roasted bell pepper vodka – named after the water sprite that drown people who disturb it)
  • Santelmo (lemon vodka – named after St. Elmo’s Fire, balls of fire that appear as portents of doom)
  • Nuno sa Punso (spearmint chocolate vodka – named after the dwarf-like creature that dwell in mounds of earth).

You can also opt to get these infusions individually by the shot glass at Php50 each, except for Nuno sa Punso which is at Php99.

Salamangka, Eastwood City

(Note: I only attempted to try Nuno sa Punso and, really, a few sips were more than enough for a lightweight like me.)

Fans of the local craft beer Engkanto would really go for a Beer Flight (Php249) a four variant sampler consisting of lager, pale ale, IPA and double IPA.

Salamangka, Eastwood City

Salamangka also prides itself on its Single Origin local coffees at Php99/cup such as those from Bukidnon and Batangas. These are freshly ground upon order and then brewed using pour over cups. Until August 31, get a Buy 1 Get 1 deal on these local coffees from 7am to 10am, thanks to Salamangka’s ongoing Hiwaga ng Umaga promo.

Salamangka, Eastwood City
Salamangka, Eastwood
Salamangka, Eastwood City

Salamangka’s Bulletproof Coffee (Php190), which is made with brewed coffee, coconut oil and unsalted butter, would probably be great for chasing away a hangover given the coffee’s touted properties for enhancing alertness. I would just prefer the residual flavor from the coconut oil to be tempered down a little bit more so that the creaminess and the slight sweetness from the butter would be more pronounced.

Salamangka, Eastwood City

So if you want a great time with your friends tinged with magic and mystery, head on to Salamangka.

Salamangka, Eastwood City
Salamangka, Eastwood City
Salamangka, Eastwood

Thanks to Darryl, Issa, Veni and Kevin of Salamangka for having us!

Salamangka, Eastwood City

Join Salamangka’s Hocus Focus Facebook contest by posting a picture of you posing in one of Salamanka’s Kreature Kutouts. Make sure your post is public, tag @salamangkamnl, use the hashtags #IsangTaongHiwaga and #TasteMagic, for a chance to get a freebie.

Salamangka, Eastwood
Salamangka, Eastwood
Salamangka, Eastwood

Feel like pitting your knowledge against other Salamangka guests? Join the Gabi ng Pagsusulit, a quiz night held at Salamangka every second and fourth Thursday of the month.

Salamangka is located at Eastwood Citywalk 1, Libis, Quezon City, open daily from 7am to 3am. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 2 5518557.

Did you know you can buy two drinks and get the same two drinks for free at Salamangka through Zomato Gold? Zomato Gold provides members with 1+1 deals on food or 2+2 deals on drinks.

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.

Three reasons why Tiyo Craft Kitchen & Bar, Tomas Morato is your next favorite hangout spot

So you’ve just clocked out but are not yet in the mood to face the long commute home.  What can you do and where can you hang out to while away the rush hour?

If you’re near the foodie-friendly Tomas Morato area, you’re in luck.  Tiyo Craft Kitchen & Bar located along Scout Rallos Street, as my fellow foodies from #WeLoveToEatPH and #SaanSaPH and I have recently discovered, may just be your next favorite hangout spot.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato
Tiyo, Tomas Morato

Here are the reasons why:

1) Luxurious ambiance with a vintage charm.

Stepping into Tiyo’s interiors is akin to entering a time portal to the era of Old Manila where elegance and comfort take center stage from the Escolta-themed mural, muted lighting to the white marble tabletops.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato
Tiyo, Tomas Morato
Tiyo, Tomas Morato

2) Pinoy artistry in food and drink preparation. 

Tiyo serves a thoughtfully curated menu of local fare which takes the best representations of Philippine regional cuisine and painstakingly uses traditional ingredients and cooking methods, and yet has reinvented and served these dishes with a modern flair.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato
Tiyo, Tomas Morato
Tiyo, Tomas Morato
Tiyo, Tomas Morato

During our fun-filled foodie meetup, we were presented with viands that are familiar yet decidedly different from our usual fare, and definitely a lot more exciting to dig in to.

Manila Ensalada (Php180).  Crispy and golden-brown okoy (deep-fried shrimp fritters popular in the Ilocos region) served with green mango, unripe papaya and assorted greens.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato

Lengua Kaldereta Nachos (Php380).  The ubiquitous Mexican bar chow has been upgraded with the addition of tenderized and finely chopped ox tongue and generous dollops of kaldereta sauce and kesong puti sauce, flavored by salsa and malunggay chimichurri.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato

Inihaw na Liempo Sinigang (Php420).  Take your inihaw na liempo (grilled pork belly) and sinigang na baboy (pork in sour tamarind broth), put them together and you have this delightfully deconstructed dish.  Take the pork belly and tamarind gravy together with the sour broth or separately, it doesn’t matter. Both iterations are equally good.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato

Corned Beef Caldereta (Php460). Here’s a new and leveled-up spin to the breakfast classic, corned beef! Combine fork-tender house-made corned beef with tomato puree, liver and grilled veggies and you’ve got yourself a filling and flavorful dish!

Tiyo, Tomas Morato

Dagupan Bangus Bistek (Php290). Deboned milkfish in soy calamansi sauce and garnished with red onion, suitable for those who want to eat light.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato

Maranao Piyanggang Manok (Php390). Chicken pieces served with sakurab – a vegetable mainstay in Maranao cuisine – along with coconut cream, lemongrass, turmeric, garlic, onion and ginger. Each bite is an explosion of flavor.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato

Palitaw Mochi (Php185). Instead of the usual flat kakanin (glutinous rice delicacy), these are cute dessert balls served with latik and bits of cashew crumble and coconut. Each bite is a surprise as your palitaw could be filled with either Malagos chocolate, Dulce de Leche or Ube (purple yam).

Tiyo, Tomas Morato

Turron ala Mode (Php195). My dad’s home province of Bataan produces one of the most iconic sweets of the region: gabi (taro) ice cream. That regional delicacy tops the turron (banana fritters) and caramel drizzle of this dream dessert.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato

And the craftsmanship does not stop with the food. Tiyo’s bartenders also whip up exciting craft cocktails for the thirsty but exacting diner. These concoctions are designed around local spirits, highlighting their unique flavors while demonstrating their versatility.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato

Pedro’s Uprising (basi, lemongrass, brandy and mint). It is named after the leader of the 1807 Basi Revolt which came about when the Spanish colonial government banned the private manufacture of this fermented sugar cane beverage. This just goes to show that you can’t keep the Pinoy spirit down!

Tiyo, Tomas Morato

Jai Alai (basil, white rum, brandy-infused cinnamon, tea, calamansi and honey). Named after the pastime of my own tiyo when I was growing up, this drink is sweet and heady, just like nostalgia.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato

Blame It on the Barako (coffee liquer, cream, coconut rum, syrup and orange wedge). If you find yourself lying awake at night, dreaming of the next time you’ll get a sip of this cocktail, you can always #BlameItOnTheBarako.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato

With its nine-tap craft beer system and the biggest collection of craft beer in the city, there is something from the seasoned brew connoisseur to a newbie. Opt for a Sampler Flight (Php150) of three sample glasses of different craft beers and discover your new favorite brew.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato
Tiyo, Tomas Morato

Not into alcohol? Don’t sweat it because Tiyo’s Houce Iced Tea (Php85) is drink that quenches your thirst and soothes your soul. And that straw is actually edible! It’s made of rice and tapioca so after finishing your drink, take a bite out of the straw.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato

3) It’s exciting promos and events.

Knowing the Pinoy penchant for spotting and pursuing a good deal, Tiyo has promos that lets its guests enjoy more for less.

Until the end of July, enjoy Buy 1 Take 1 deals on all craft cocktails.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato

Get 3 Gin & Tonic drinks for only Php280.

Every Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, get all the wine you can drink for only Php799.

During Ladies Night Wednesdays, all ladies get a free craft cocktail drink of their choice.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato

Every Tuesday and Saturday night, groove along with live musical entertainment.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato

With all these elements coming together, it’s easy to see how Tiyo Craft Kitchen and Bar is #TailoredToGoodTaste. So make a stopover at Tiyo tonight. You’ll be glad you did.

Many thanks to Michelle and Mik de Guzman and Ed Salvador of Tiyo Craft Kitchen and Bar for hosting this foodie meetup.

Tiyo, Tomas Morato

Tiyo Craft Kitchen & Bar is located at Second Floor, CKB Centre, Tomas Morato Avenue Corner Scout Rallos Street, Laging Handa, Quezon City, open Sundays to Mondays from 4pm to 1am, Tuesdays to Thursdays from 4pm to 2am and Fridays to Saturdays from 4pm to 3 am.  For inquiries or reservations, call +63 932 8642593.

Did you know you can buy two drinks and get the same two drinks for free at Tiyo Craft Kitchen & Bar through Zomato Gold? Zomato Gold provides members with 1+1 deals on food or 2+2 deals on drinks.

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.