family dining – Jellybeans in the City

Dimsum discovery at King Chef Dimsum Kitchen, SM Cherry

Hidden within the bustling confines of SM Cherry Shaw Boulevard lies a haven for dimsum aficionados – King Chef Dimsum Kitchen. Amidst the array of dining options in the mall, King Chef stands out not only for its authentic Cantonese cuisine but also for its commitment to providing an affordable yet delectable dining experience.

After a morning of errands, I treated Hubby and my son to lunch at this branch of King Chef Dimsum Kitchen, given that it’s the branch nearest our home.

After spending hours in our car, we were glad to be greeted by the restaurants warm and inviting ambiance. Thanks to its tastefully decorated interiors, with modern touches complementing traditional Chinese elements and the heartwarming house tea, we were made to feel quite at home. It’s definitely a space where families gather, friends reunite, and for foodies to embark on culinary adventures.

Discovering new and embracing old dimsum faves

Being dimsum lovers, we went all out with our orders, opting for both olf favorites as well as venturing towards new flavors and textures. These include:

Filling up on the Mains

But the dimsum extravaganza is just the beginning. King Chef Dimsum Kitchen also boasts an enticing selection of hearty and filling main courses, all at prices that won’t break the bank, such as:

The King Chef Experience

Beyond the tantalizing dishes, what truly sets King Chef apart is the dining experience it offers. Every staff member, from the server to restaurant manager, is quick to anticipate our request and answer our questions about dishes and promo offers.

With a commitment to personalized service and attention to detail, the staff at King Chef ensure that every visit is a memorable one.

Behind the scenes, the story of King Chef is one of passion and dedication. Founded in 2010 by owners Michael Chan Ang and Marites Apiado-Ang, the restaurant was born out of a desire to share authentic Cantonese cuisine with the Filipino community. With a team of Filipino chefs trained in the art of Cantonese cooking, King Chef has become a beacon of excellence in the culinary landscape.

This delicious lunch with my boys clearly shows that King Chef Dimsum Kitchen offers more than just affordable dimsum – it offers a culinary journey filled with flavor, warmth, and hospitality. Whether you’re a dimsum enthusiast or simply seeking a satisfying meal, King Chef invites you to discover the delights of Cantonese cuisine without breaking the bank.

So, why not treat yourself to an affordable dimsum adventure at King Chef Dimsum Kitchen? Your taste buds will thank you.

This King Chef Dimsum Kitchen branch is located Lower Ground Floor, SM Cherry – Shaw Boulevard, Brgy. Pleasant Hills, Mandaluyong City, open daily from 10am to 9pm. For inquiries and reservations, call +639322378464, +639190791667, +639190791668 or +63287262433.

Other branches are located at:

King Chef Dimsum Kitchen:

3rd Floor, 238 Banawe Centre, Panalturan & Pagataan, Brgy. Manresa, Quezon City

King Chef Seafood Restaurant:

West Avenue Brgy. Sta. Cruz, Quezon City
Phase 2 Level 3, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Parañaque City
2nd Floor, Lucky Chinatown Mall Binondo, City of Manila

Know more about King Chef by visiting its website or following it on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous posts about King Chef:

King Chef brings exclusive treats for smart diners

A Flavorful Family Reunion: Sumptuous Breakfast Buffet at Guevarra’s

There’s something magical about the idea of a leisurely breakfast, isn’t there? It’s that comforting embrace of a hearty meal that warms both your belly and your soul, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead. And when it comes to weekends, the allure of a great breakfast spread is irresistible – a treat that turns ordinary mornings into memorable occasions.

Recently, I had the pleasure of treating my US-based kuya and nephew, as well as my family, to a special breakfast experience mere hours after the balikbayans touched down in Manila. This was more than just a meal; it was a chance to re-introduce my erstwhile Amboys to the flavors of Pinoy cuisine and, more importantly, to share precious moments together as a family, something we hadn’t enjoyed since the pandemic happened.

The Filipino Breakfast Tradition at Guevarra’s

In Filipino culture, breakfast is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition. It’s a time when families come together and share hearty, flavorful dishes. Guevarra’s by Chef Laudico understands the importance of this tradition and has curated a breakfast buffet that truly pays homage to it. Led by culinary maestros, Chefs Rolando and Jackie Laudico, Guevarra’s has become a renowned spot for a delightful breakfast buffet that captures the essence of Filipino breakfast culture.

Chef Lau, as he is affectionately known, draws inspiration from Pinoys’ love for silogs (sinangag-itlog), creating a menu that allows diners to create their personalized garlic fried rice meal with a variety of eggs and mains.

Their culinary philosophy is simple yet profound: a commitment to quality, freshness, and authenticity in every dish. No shortcuts, no artificial flavorings, and definitely no MSG. It’s this dedication to the essence of Filipino breakfast that makes Guevarra’s stand out.

The Breakfast Buffet Experience

Stepping into Guevarra’s feels like you’re being welcomed into someone’s home. The restaurant’s vintage interior combines rustic old-world charm with modern comfort, setting the perfect stage for the family’s breakfast adventure.

And what an adventure it was!

Guevarra’s breakfast buffet laid out an astonishing array of over 40 dishes, each a masterpiece in its own right. Our culinary journey began with a visit to the bread station, where local favorites like ensaymada, pan de coco, and Spanish bread await. Adding a dash of novelty to this Filipino breakfast experience are the unique pizza creations inspired by beloved ulams like tocino and tuyo.

The heart of the buffet, however, is the build-your-own silog station. Here, the diners call the shots. We started with the egg station, where we had our eggs prepared just the way we like them – perfectly scrambled with all the add-ons or runny sunny side up. Then came the exciting part – choosing our mains which include garlicky Vigan longganisa, daing na bangus, crispy danggit, and chicken pork adobo. We made it a point not to miss the star of the show, Guevarra’s signature Angus Beef Tapa, with its tantalizing smoky flavor.

But breakfast at Guevarra’s isn’t just about silogs. We also enjoyed a variety of Filipino breakfast classics, including champorado and arroz caldo. For those with a sweet tooth, the dessert table didn’t disappoint with its array of Palitaw, Sapin-Sapin, Pichi-Pichi, and more.

What’s remarkable is how everyone at our table found their favorites despite our varied tastes. My balikbayan relatives couldn’t get enough of the silogs, while my health-conscious husband and daughter appreciated the veggies and healthy options. As for me and my son, we happily indulged in the breakfast sweets.

Want to treat yourselves to a breakfast buffet experience at Guevarra’s?

You can find this delightful breakfast haven at 387 P. Guevarra corner Argonne Streets, Addition Hills, San Juan City. For more information and reservations, visit www.guevarras.com, or send a message through its Facebook Page.

The Breakfast Buffet at Guevarra’s by Chef Laudico’s is available every Sunday, from 7:30 to 10 a.m., priced at a reasonable Php589 net per person (Php420.71 for Seniors and PWDs).

In the midst of our busy lives, taking the time to savor a lavish breakfast buffet at Guevarra’s is like hitting the pause button and indulging in a moment of pure joy. It’s an experience that encapsulates the heart and soul of Filipino breakfast culture, with Chefs Lau and Jac’s unwavering commitment to quality shining through in every bite.

So, if you’re seeking a flavorful family reunion, a delightful breakfast outing, or simply a way to treat yourself to some mouthwatering Pinoy delights, make Guevarra’s your destination. Really, it’s more than just a meal – it’s a memory waiting to be savored.

Check out my previous post about Guevarra’s:

Celebrating in style at Guevarra’s by Chef Laudico

#BaguioEats: A delicious Mediterranean feast at Lemon & Olives Greek Taverna

My fam and I continued our food-tripping around Baguio with a lunch at one of its celebrated culinary destinations: Lemon and Olives Greek Taverna. As the first and only authentic Greek restaurant in the area, Lemon and Olives lives up to its promise of providing a delightful journey through the flavors and aromas of Greece.

We approached Lemon and Olives along Outlook Drive, a mere ten minutes drive from where we were staying, with quite a bit of excitement. After all, thanks to Hubby’s pre-trip research (mostly made up of Youtube videos of travel bloggers who’ve tried the restaurant), we’ve been looking forward to sampling to the wonders of Greek cuisine.

Exploring the Ambiance

The interior of Lemon and Olives exudes a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for an authentic Greek dining experience. The whitewashed walls, wooden floors, and elements like wrought-iron lamps that give off warm light and tchotchkes artfully placed on shelves transported us to a comfy Greek home.

However, the real treat for diners await outside on the veranda. Surrounded by lush greenery and with a breathtaking view of the forest and mountains, the veranda provides an enchanting backdrop to any meal.

Here’s a tip: To secure the best seats and enjoy the picturesque view, make sure to get there early. We visited for lunch as soon as the restaurant opened at 11 am, but the veranda dining area – the best seats in the house with the amazing views of the mountainside – were already filled up. We had to settle for a window-side table which still had a picturesque view of the nearby forest area.

Our Journey Through Delicious Greek Flavors

Greek food is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean flavors, characterized by fresh and wholesome ingredients that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Greece. Known for its emphasis on olive oil, feta cheese, herbs like oregano and mint, and an abundance of fresh vegetables, Greek cuisine offers a harmonious balance of savory and tangy tastes.

Our culinary journey began with the classic Greek Salad (Php390). A delightful blend of fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, bell peppers, feta cheese, imported olive oil, and Greek olives, this salad instantly refreshed our palates.

Next, we tried the Evia Salad (Php460), a unique and refreshing combination of dried Greek figs, fresh pomegranate pearls, candied walnuts, mixed greens, and a tangy balsamic reduction.

Our taste buds continued to dance as we indulged in the Poikilia (Php420), a mixed grill platter featuring Greek village sausage, spicy soutzouki sausage, saganaki cheese, tzatziki dip, and pita bread. This truly lived up to its moniker of Parthenon of Greek Appetizers!

The highlight of our feast was undoubtedly the succulent Special Lamb Chops (Php2,220 – good for four). Tender lamb chops infused with various Greek herbs then grilled to perfection and served with a tangy sauce and assorted grilled veggies, this dish was a true culinary masterpiece.

For burger enthusiasts, the Athens Burger (Php380) is a must-try. A juicy ground beef patty topped with tzatziki dressing and fresh veggies, served in a soft brioche bun alongside a generous side of potato wedges. It’s a heavenly combination that my son had no trouble wolfing down.

To satisfy our sweet tooth, we savored the traditional Greek dessert, Ekmek (Php150). Layers of shredded crispy phyllo pastry soaked in lemon honey syrup, topped with a luscious milk custard and cream – it was pure bliss in every spoonful.

We should also not forget the Classic Baklava (Php200), a delectable pastry featuring layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and a honey-lemon syrup. A sweet ending to an unforgettable feast!

Creating Cherished Memories

Beyond the delicious food and charming ambiance, what made our experience truly special was the time spent with my husband and son. It was heartwarming to see my boy enjoy new flavors and embrace the wonders of Greek cuisine. Lemon and Olives provided the perfect setting for us to create cherished memories together.

If you’re looking for a taste of Greece in the heart of Baguio, Lemon and Olives is the place to be. Don’t miss the chance to embark on your own gastronomic journey and experience its magic from the combination of warm hospitality and mouthwatering dishes

Lemon and Olives Greek Taverna is located at No. 26 Outlook Drive, Baguio City, Benguet Province, open daily from 11am to 9pm. For inquiries, call +63 0917 8906573. Seating remains on a first-come, first-served basis.

Stay updated on Lemon and Olives’ menu and offers by following it on Facebook and Instagram.

A flavorful family experience at Yabu House of Katsu, SM Megamall

Every Sunday is Family Day. Part of my family’s Sunday routine is to have lunch together after attending mass. We usually opt for either old favorites or new restaurants we want to try. For this instance, we opted for Yabu House of Katsu since we already know that we love the food there.

Yabu’s Unique Katsu Experience

Yabu House of Katsu stands out among other restaurants for several reasons, making it a unique and beloved destination for katsu enthusiasts. The first thing that struck us was their commitment to authenticity. Yabu prides itself on offering an authentic Japanese katsu experience. They adhere to traditional Japanese cooking techniques and use high-quality ingredients to ensure the utmost authenticity in their dishes. From the breading to the frying method, Yabu pays attention to every detail to create a truly authentic katsu. One ritual that we particularly enjoyed was preparing the katsu sauce by grinding the toasted sesame seeds in a textured bowl before pouring and mixing in the prepared katsu sauce.

Customization and variety are also key features of Yabu’s menu. They offer a wide range of katsu options to cater to various tastes. Whether you prefer pork, chicken, seafood, or even vegetarian katsu, Yabu has got you covered. This level of customization allows diners to enjoy their favorite type of katsu in their preferred style. The attention to detail is evident in the little extras they provide, such as unlimited servings of cabbage salad and various dipping sauces to complement the katsu. The miso soup is carefully crafted, and the rice is perfectly cooked, further enhancing the overall meal.

Delicious Katsu Selections at Yabu

We know that we couldn’t go wrong with the katsu sets, which consist of a special cut of katsu served with refillable soup, rice, cabbage, and fruit. I opted for the Rosu (Pork Loin) Set (P390/80g | P430/120g | P490/180g) since the fat trimming adds a lot of flavor to the meat.

My husband and daughter, both more fitness-conscious, opted for the Hire (Pork Tenderloin) Set (P415/80g | P450/120g), which has no fat.

My son, being a cheese-lover, went for the Menchi Katsu Set (P430) made with a mixture of minced beef and pork mixed together with Yabu’s special spices and stuffed with creamy cheese.

Of course, the kids insisted on an order of Mozzarella Katsu Sticks (P320), sticks of mozzarella coated in golden panko tossed with Yabu’s special furikake blend and served with spicy aioli dip.

Meanwhile, my husband wanted to munch on an order of Agedashi Tofu (P265), panko-crusted Japanese tofu topped with shredded bonito flakes and grated radish, and served on a bed of soy-dashi sauce, while waiting for our katsu sets.

The pricing of these items is just right for a weekend family meal. It feels like something special and tasty that we can look forward to without breaking the bank.

Inviting Ambiance at Yabu SM Megamall

The ambiance at the SM Megamall branch of Yabu is inviting and comfortable, creating a pleasant dining experience for guests. The modern and stylish decor with sleek lines and contemporary furniture adds a touch of sophistication to the restaurant’s overall atmosphere. The warm lighting, with its soft and warm-toned lights, sets a relaxed and intimate mood, making it a perfect place to enjoy a meal with family and loved ones.

The seating arrangements at Yabu SM Megamall are thoughtfully designed to accommodate both small and large groups comfortably. Whether you’re dining as a couple or with a larger party, you’ll find seating arrangements that cater to your needs. The staff at Yabu SM Megamall are very welcoming and attentive, and quite prompt when we needed rice and cabbage refills. From the moment we entered the restaurant, we were greeted with a warm welcome and provided with any assistance or guidance we needed throughout our dining experience.

The vibrant and energetic atmosphere of the SM Megamall branch adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the overall dining experience. The restaurant is often bustling with activity, creating a lively ambiance that makes it a great place for friends and families to gather and enjoy a meal together.

I can say that Yabu House of Katsu does deserve its position as one of the fam’s favorite restaurants

This Yabu branch is located at Bldg B, SM Mega Mall, 202 EDSA corner Dona Julia Vargas Avenue, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City, open daily from 10am to 9pm.

Other Yabu branches are located at:

Las Pinas: SM Southmall
Makati: Glorietta 2, Rockwell Powerplant
Manila: Robinsons Place Manila
Muntinlupa: Alabang Town Center
Pasay: SM Mall of Asia
Pasig: Ayala Malls the 30th, Ayala Malls Feliz
Quezon City: UP Town Center, SM North EDSA, Robinsons Magnolia, Ayala Vertis North, Robinsons Galleria
Taguig: SM Aura

Yabu House of Katsu also delivers via GrabFood.

Know more about its menu and offers by following it on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous posts about Yabu House of Katsu: