food blogger – Jellybeans in the City

Check out Bon A Patty’s tasty pasta dishes for your holiday parties

The holiday season is upon us, bringing an array of parties and get-togethers. It’s the time when friends and family gather, and what better way to celebrate than over a table of delightful food? For those seeking the perfect dishes to share at these joyous occasions, let me introduce two remarkable options: the Beef Lasagna and Truffle Mushroom Pasta from Bon A Patty.

Meet Patty: The Heart Behind the Dishes

At the heart of Bon A Patty is Patty, a passionate food enthusiast and the driving force behind these delightful offerings. Patty’s culinary journey began with a simple love for cooking. It was this love that led her to experiment and eventually create the delightful Beef Lasagna and Truffle Mushroom Pasta we’re about to delve into.

Bon A Patty’s story started as a delightful accident, a happy twist of fate during an ordinary day of cooking lasagna at home. Patty shared her creation with friends, and their overwhelmingly positive response sparked the idea to share these dishes with a broader audience through an online venture. Besides Bon A Patty, Patty also manages an online dessert shop, @pattysseriemnl, showcasing her diverse culinary skills and love for flavors.

Beef Lasagna: A Classic Favorite

The Beef Lasagna from Bon A Patty is a classic favorite reimagined. It encapsulates all that we adore about lasagna—layers of premium beef, oozing cheese, and a blend of carefully selected herbs. It’s comfort food with a delightful twist, a perfect choice for any gathering.

Truffle Mushroom Pasta: A Flavor Fusion

On the other hand, the Truffle Mushroom Pasta is a delightful fusion of flavors. This pasta dish boasts the earthy richness of truffles combined with the savory essence of mushrooms. Every bite is a dance of flavors a delight to the taste buds.

Occasions to Enjoy

Delicious food is at the heart of memorable gatherings, making the Beef Lasagna and Truffle Mushroom Pasta from Bon A Patty ideal choices for a variety of occasions.

Weekend Brunch with the Family. These hearty dishes are perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch with family. The Beef Lasagna offers a comforting, filling meal that everyone loves, while the Truffle Mushroom Pasta adds a touch of gourmet elegance to the gathering. Their flavors and generous servings ensure that everyone leaves the table satisfied and content.

Office Potluck. Impress your colleagues at an office potluck with the indulgent Beef Lasagna and Truffle Mushroom Pasta. The Beef Lasagna’s classic appeal is sure to be a hit, and the Truffle Mushroom Pasta will add a touch of sophistication to the spread. These dishes are easy to serve and will have your coworkers raving about your culinary skills.

Large Family Reunions. For a large family reunion, the Beef Lasagna and Truffle Mushroom Pasta are both practical and crowd-pleasing choices. The Beef Lasagna’s traditional flavors evoke a sense of togetherness and nostalgia, making it a perfect fit. Meanwhile, the Truffle Mushroom Pasta provides a modern and unique option that caters to various palates, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Barkada Gatherings. When it comes to barkada gatherings, the Truffle Mushroom Pasta steals the spotlight. Its fusion of flavors and gourmet appeal elevates the dining experience, creating a delightful atmosphere for sharing stories and creating new memories. The Beef Lasagna, a classic favorite, complements the pasta, offering a diverse and satisfying meal for a fun-filled get-together.

These occasions are made even more enjoyable with the addition of Bon A Patty’s Beef Lasagna and Truffle Mushroom Pasta. Their versatility and ability to cater to different events make them go-to choices when you want to impress and delight your guests. Bring the warmth of Bon A Patty’s creations to your gatherings and make every moment a tasty, unforgettable one.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to tantalize your taste buds and share the joy of delicious dining with those you care about. Ordering these delightful dishes is simple. Bon A Patty operates online through Facebook and Instagram or by calling +63 977 8162090.

Experience the joy of bringing these mouthwatering dishes to your next gathering and watch the smiles unfold.

Disclosure: Product samples were provided in exchange for honest feedback.

#BaguioEats: Savoring authentic Japanese delights at Chaya

Hubby and I recently took the fam on a much-deserved break in Baguio, the charming city known for its cool weather, scenic landscapes, and delightful dining experiences.

Aside from the sightseeing and the meet-ups with family and friends, the family certainly looked forward to the foodie adventures that the City of Pines has to offer.

Fortunately, Hubby’s cousin, who we make a point of meeting up with whenever we’re in Baguio, suggested Chaya – the hidden culinary gem nestled in a peaceful suburb just 10 minutes away from Session Road – for our dinner rendezvous.

Discovering Chaya’s Allure

Goin to Chaya feels like stumbling upon a well-kept secret. This little haven exudes warmth and coziness, making it the perfect place for an intimate family meal. The quaint residential area sets the stage for an unforgettable dining adventure.

Once inside, you’ll find yourself transported to a charming Japanese abode. Every corner is adorned with personal touches – from unique Japanese-themed decor to handcrafted quilts adorning the walls. Potted plants add a touch of nature, creating an inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.

While we missed the chance to dine in its al fresco area due to the rainy weather, we still found its interior just as enchanting. The sprawling wooden communal tables made us feel like we’re in a big family gathering. For a more intimate setting, there are also circular tables and couch seating.

The heart and soul of Chaya

The driving force behind Chaya is its chef and co-owner – Sonoko Taguchi. Her culinary journey started with her aunt and grandmother, who ran a restaurant in Japan. Their traditional recipes have been passed down through generations, which she then brought to Baguio for the enjoyment of its locals and visitors.

Drawn by the cool weather and the allure of fresh produce at the local market and inspired by her dream of creating Japanese dishes with a touch of the town’s supplies and flavors, Sonoko opened Chaya in 2010, which became a much-loved dining destination in Baguio.

One of the things that set Chaya apart is its commitment to green cuisine – contemporary Japanese dishes that are both authentic and delicious. The restaurant boasts a diverse menu, catering to various preferences, including vegetarian and vegan options. Here, foodies can indulge guilt-free while relishing the flavors of Japan.

Indulging in Chaya’s Culinary Offerings

Now, let’s dive into the highlight of our visit – the delectable dishes we enjoyed at Chaya.

First up, the fresh and succulent Tuna Sashimi (Php490) and Salmon Sashimi (Php490), both served with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger were a perfect start to our meal.

We also freshened up our palate with the Chaya Salad (Php400), made with greens topped with fresh fruits and drizzled with a fruity vinaigrette dressing.

Next on our meal was the Chicken Karaage (Php420) – Japanese-style fried chicken that was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, a true comfort food delight, and a true favorite for my son, especially when accompanied by rich Japanese mayo.

The Ebi Tempura (Php480) showcased perfectly battered and fried shrimp, while the Vegetable Tempura (Php400) presented a medley of carrots, zucchini, pumpkin flowers and onions in a light and crispy coating, both served with the sweet-savory tempura dipping sauce.

The Sukiyaki (Php560), a delightful Japanese hot pot dish, simmered thinly sliced beef, vegetables, and tofu in a savory broth, left us feeling warm and satisfied despite the chilly weather.

The Agedashi Tofu (Php295), is Hubby’s favorite treat, thanks to its crispy outer layer and sweet-savory sauce.

For Hubby, no Japanese meal is complete without some classics like Edamame (Php220), those steamed soybeans served in their pods, and the heartwarming Miso Soup (Php130) with tofu, seaweed, and scallions.

While the rest of the fam opted for plain rice to go with our Japanese viands, I couldn’t resist treating myself to some flavorful Chahan (Php360), Japanese-style fried rice.

Service with a Smile

The experience at Chaya extends beyond just the food. The attentive and friendly service made your visit even more enjoyable. The staff thoughtfully served complimentary side dishes and hot tea while we waited for our meal, and then bite-sized green tea ice cream for dessert afterwards, ensuring that we left the restaurant well-satisfied.

Chaya is definitely a culinary haven where authentic Japanese dishes meet heartwarming hospitality.

(A word to the wise: be sure to arrive early or schedule your visit during off-peak hours as the limited parking may be an issue.)

Whether you’re visiting Baguio for a special occasion, or, like us, simply seeking a casual meal withfamily and friends, Chaya promises an unforgettable dining experience. So, if you find yourself in this beautiful city, make sure to add Chaya to your list of must-visit restaurants.

Green Chaya Restaurant and Cafe is located at 72 Legarda Road, Baguio City, Benguet Province, open daily from 10am to 8pm. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 915 9054820.

Another branch is located at SM City Baguio, along Luneta Hill, Upper Session Road, Baguio City, Benguet Province. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 945 4388495.

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

A Spanish-inspired Feast from Chef Tatung at Azadore

Indulging in a delightful lunch with my officemates at Azadore, Chef Myke “Tatung” Sarthou’s newest restaurant in the Tomas Morato area, was a culinary adventure that transported us harried office workers to a world of international flavors with a touch of homegrown flair. There, we were able to experience Chef Tatung’s passion for food and sense of nostalgia which resulted to a memorable dining experience.

Romancing the Grill: Chef Tatung’s Concept

Drawing inspiration from his cherished memories of backyard barbecue parties and family gatherings, Chef Tatung crafted Azadore as an international grill with a heartwarming touch of home. The name itself, a playful fusion of “asador,” meaning “fire pit or grill” in South American countries, and “adore,” symbolizing love and cherish, perfectly captures the essence of this culinary haven.

A Journey Back in Time: The Converted Ancestral Home

As we stepped into Azadore, housed in a converted ancestral home on Scout Fernandez Street in Quezon City, we were instantly captivated by its timeless charm. The mid-century post American-era family home, transformed into a beautiful dining destination, enveloped us in a nostalgic embrace inspired by Chef Tatung’s childhood memories of grilling in his Cebu garden and his grandmother’s dining table.

Converting an almost 80-year-old home into a 300-seater restaurant was no small feat, but with the expertise of interior designer Ivy Almario, the team infused their unique style into the space while preserving its classic allure. The original footprint of the house was respected, paying homage to its architectural bones. Original materials and flooring were retained, gracefully blending the past with a modern twist. Azadore embodies the idea that we can embrace the present and future while staying connected to our roots and cherished traditions.

A Haven for Gatherings: Azadore’s Unique Spaces

Azadore offers a haven for both large and intimate gatherings. With an indoor seating capacity of 113 and the Breezeway Terrace, an al fresco area accommodating 180 people, the restaurant provides an ideal setting for various occasions. Whether it’s a family reunion, a milestone celebration like a birthday or anniversary, or even corporate events such as product launches or seminars, Azadore can caters to various large group functions. Former bedrooms have been transformed into private dining rooms, offering a more intimate ambiance for special gatherings.

A Spanish-Inspired Respite: Our Flavorful Escape

Amidst the hustle and bustle of our busy workday, we found respite in Azadore’s Spanish-inspired dishes. Chef Tatung’s vision of serving Spanish fare the way we Filipinos know and love them truly came alive in our lunch experience. Here are the highlights of our delectable feast:

Dinner rolls and butter

This much appreciated complimentary dish helped to tide us over while waiting for our orders to be served.

Paella Negra (Php1,350)

A captivating dish featuring rice flavored with squid ink, adorned with succulent octopus, shrimp, and clams. The flavors mingled harmoniously, creating a medley that pleased both the eyes and the taste buds. It is served with a side of creamy aioli but I preferred the rice dish without it.

Salpicao (Php690)

Tender cubes of beef tenderloin sautéed to perfection in garlic, butter, and wine. This may be a little “sauce-ier” than my usual preference for salpicao but it went well with our paella.

Gambas con Chorizo (Php950)

A mouthwatering combination of prawns, garlic, homemade smoked chorizo, parsley butter, and a hint of lemon juice. The flavors danced on our tongues, showcasing the skillful fusion of Spanish and Filipino influences.

These dishes were served in portions that suited our group of four quite well, resulting in well-satisfied foodies who can happily go back to being corporate drones.

In addition to savoring the sumptuous dishes, we couldn’t resist capturing the moment with some delightful photo opportunities. Azadore’s charming ambiance and visually appealing presentations provided the perfect backdrop for our Instagram-worthy snapshots.

A Culinary Adventure Awaits at Azadore

Azadore, Chef Tatung’s newest restaurant, has undoubtedly become a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking a delightful blend of international and local flavors. The passion and expertise poured into every aspect of this culinary gem, from its nostalgic concept to its converted ancestral home, make it a truly exceptional dining experience. Whether you’re planning a gathering with loved ones or simply seeking a delectable respite from the everyday, Azadore promises a journey that will satisfy both your palate and your heart.

Embark on your own gastronomic adventure and discover the warmth and flavors of Azadore, where the love for food and cherished memories come together in perfect harmony.

Azadore is located at 111 Scout Fernandez Street, Barangay Sacred Heart, Quezon City, open daily from 10am to 12 midnight. For inquiries and reservations, contact +63 917 101 0070.

Stay updated on its menu and offers by following Azadore on Facebook and Instagram.

Indulge in homecooked bliss at The Frazzled Cook, Tomas Morato

There’s a charming little gem nestled along Scout Gandia Street in the vibrant Tomas Morato area of Quezon City. It is said that in this modest house resides a quirky chef who could instill home-cooked yumminess into any dish, and who prioritizes the comfort that food brings above all else. In this homey yet eclectic abode, delicious international cuisines are served with a quirky, home-cooked style.

Together with my officemates on a lunch outing, I embarked on a culinary adventure filled with comfort food delights and a charming ambiance at The Frazzled Cook.

A Home Away from Home

Who is The Frazzled Cook? LeeChoaChengCo Inc., the brilliant minds behind this culinary haven, set out to create a place that would stand out from the rest. Their mission was to provide a comfortable and relaxing dining experience with a homecook-style Western-Italian menu, all set within a cozy and eclectic atmosphere. The mismatched furniture, dim lighting, and quirky decors collected from around the world all contributed to the comfy and homey feel of the place.

Comfort Food Galore

The Frazzled Cook specializes in homecook-style Western-Italian cuisine, offering a tantalizing array of dishes that cater to busy office folks craving for comfort food such as:

Squid Salad (Php415 single | Php725 family). A refreshing blend of crisp greens, slivered prunes, walnuts, homemade croutons, and sweet peppery squid tossed in a basil vinaigrette.

Truffle Pasta (Php395 single | Php645 family). This dish was a pasta lover’s dream come true. The mixed pasta was perfectly al dente, complemented by sautéed Portobello mushrooms and a luscious homemade white truffle sauce. The earthy aroma of truffles wafting from the plate made each forkful pure bliss.

Pork BBQ Ribs (Php595 single | Php1195 family). The succulent ribs, simmered for four hours and glazed with homemade BBQ sauce, is tender, juicy, and bursting with smoky flavors.

Wagyu Salpicao (Php595). The Waygu beef cubes sautéed with sliced garlic and mushrooms showcased the restaurant’s mastery of flavors and was both comforting and indulgent.

Lengua with Mushroom and Corn (Php425). The stewed ox tongue, drizzled in a creamy white sauce and served with mushrooms, sweet corn, and buttered vegetables, was a comforting classic elevated to new heights.

Fish and Fries (Php325). Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and served with a delectable aioli dip, the breaded fish fillet and fries satisfied our seafood cravings perfectly.

To accompany our feast, we slaked our thirst with a double pitcher of their refreshing Cucumber Lemonade (Php395), a cool and tangy concoction that complemented the flavors of the dishes.

Stellar Service and Parting Thoughts

The attentive and friendly service at The Frazzled Cook added an extra layer of enjoyment to our experience. Our large group was seated in a semi-private room, and thanks to a convenient call button on the table, we could easily summon our server whenever we needed assistance. The staff promptly served our food, ensuring that our lunch flowed smoothly.

Before we bid adieu to The Frazzled Cook, it’s worth mentioning that reservations are highly recommended, especially during busy lunch periods. Additionally, parking can be limited, so arriving early is advisable to secure a spot.

For foodies seeking a place to indulge in comforting and delicious cuisine, The Frazzled Cook is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its warm and welcoming ambiance, impeccable service, and a menu filled with mouthwatering homecook-style Western-Italian dishes, this restaurant is an ideal destination for leisurely meals with loved ones.

So, gather your friends and family, and allow The Frazzled Cook to whisk you away on a culinary journey that will leave you satiated yet craving for more.

The Frazzled Cook is located at 78 Scout Gandia Street, Brgy. Laging Handa, Quezon City, open daily from 10am to 10pm.

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

Manam Comfort Filipino, Greenhills: A cozy culinary journey through Filipino comfort food

One of the things I look forward to every weekend is Sunday brunch with the fam. After attending mass, we usually enjoy a meal at restaurant that gives us a welcome break from our usual lutong-bahay viands and fast-food delivery fare.

One particular Sunday gave me the chance to revisit Manam Comfort Filipino. During my pre-pandemic era, I enjoyed a HappyLunch at its Trinoma branch with my officemates but I was unable to repeat the experience afterwards.

Until now.

A Warm Embrace of Filipino Comfort

Manam Comfort Filipino is a culinary gem founded by friends Abba Napa, Eliza Antonino, and Jon Syjuco. This homegrown concept by The Moment Group pays homage to the founders’ cherished childhood memories and culinary adventures. With a menu that beautifully marries tradition and innovation, Manam offers a dining experience that subtly challenges the taste of Filipino classics while remaining relatable and comforting to the contemporary Filipino palate.

Comfort Beyond Taste: The Cozy Atmosphere of Manam

For this particular Sunday brunch, I enjoyed the meal with my family at Manam’s Greenhills branch. Here, we were enveloped by an inviting and cozy ambiance. The spacious interiors, adorned with light-colored furnishings and walls adorned with vibrant artwork, create an atmosphere that feels like home. It’s the kind of place where families and friends gather, creating lasting memories while enjoying the comforting flavors of Filipino cuisine.

Unfolding Hominess: A Taste of Manam’s Filipino Soul

Manam is more than just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of heartily delicious Filipino cuisine. The name itself, derived from the Filipino word “malinamnam,” perfectly encapsulates the essence of Manam’s brand—a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to unfold hominess to all who enter. The founders’ vision was simple yet innovative: to present Filipino comfort food in a way that satisfies the modern diner’s cravings while preserving the nostalgia of beloved childhood dishes.

Classics and Twists: An All-Filipino Menu to Savor and Discover

At Manam, the menu is thoughtfully divided into two categories: classics (homestyle cooking like our lolas used to make) and twists (creative versions of our favorite ulams). Serving sizes include small, medium and large, accommodating diners ranging from solo and intimate groups to family-size parties. This unique menu concept takes diners on an exciting culinary journey, indulging in a feast of comfort dishes, including both new and familiar flavors.

From the Classics:

House Crispy Sisig (Php190 small | Php340 medium | Php570). A sizzling plate with crispy pork jowl and cheek, onions, and chilis—a harmonious symphony of textures and flavors.

Beef Salpicao and Garlic (Php265 small | Php495 medium | Php895). Tender beef cubes marinated and braised in a flavorful garlic sauce.

Sizzling Bulalo Steak (Php350 small | Php635 medium | Php1,135). Beef shank, succulent and tender, bathed in savory gravy, served on a sizzling plate to add an enticing touch.

From the Twists:

House Tofu Sisig (Php175 small | Php295 medium | Php485). Crispy fried tofu cubes, drenched in Manam’s vegetarian house sisig sauce, accompanied by fried okra, scallions, and fresh green chilis—a vegetarian twist on a beloved classic.

Caramelized Patis Wings (Php190 small | Php465 medium | Php915). Succulent chicken wings coated in a sweet, tangy and savory caramelized patis glaze, delivering a delightful fusion of flavors.

Crispy Pancit Palabok (Php225 small | Php440 medium | Php725). Crunchy glass noodles adorned with chicharon, crispy garlic, shrimp, squid, and tinapa flakes, bathed in a savory shrimp sauce—a delightful textural journey through the flavors of the Philippines.

To complement our comforting feast, we cooled down with refreshing Mango Pomelo Sago (Php175), their smooth and citrusy sweetness adding a delightful touch to our culinary adventure.

Manam Comfort Filipino in Greenhills has truly mastered the art of comfort dining, blending tradition and innovation to create a culinary experience that warms both the heart and the palate. From the inviting ambiance to the carefully crafted classics and inventive twists, Manam offers a delightful taste of Filipino soul food. Whether you’re seeking a cozy family gathering or a comforting meal for one, Manam is the place where Filipino comfort takes center stage, reminding us of the flavors that define us and the memories that bind us.

This Manam Comfort Filipino branch is located at OSquare 2, Greenhills Shopping Center, San Juan City, open Mondays to Thursdays from 10am to 9pm and Fridays to Sundays from 10am to 10pm.

Other Metro Manila branches are located at:

Makati: Greenbelt 2
Mandaluyong: SM Mega Fashion Hall
Manila: Robinsons Place Manila
Muntinlupa: Festival Supermall Expansion Wing, Molito Lifestyle Center
Paranaque: Ayala Malls Manila Bay
Pasay: SM Mall of Asia
Quezon City: Ayala Malls Trinoma, SM City North EDSA, SM Fairview, Robinsons Magnolia, Gateway Mall
Taguig: Uptown Mall, Net Park

Check out my previous post about Manam Comfort Filipino:

Pinoy Bloggers take on The New Normal

It has been more than three months since the pandemic has essentially turned our worlds upside down.

As we waited for quarantines to be lifted and restrictions to be loosened, many of us found ourselves willing time to hurry up so things can get back to normal.

But we can’t really go back to the way things used to be, right? Not when the threat of COVID-19 or any future communicable health risk still looms.

Hence, the emergence of The New Normal. While businesses re-open and people are more frequently moving about, the following principles still apply:

Increased importance of personal hygiene
Practice of physical distancing
Focus of all activities in the home
Transition of most interactions to digital

To help ease the way towards The New Normal, several Filipino bloggers have taken it upon themselves to broach topics relevant to the transition. They create content to guide, inspire or entertain as we all grapple with the changes to our way of life.

Keepin’ Fit and Healthy

If the pandemic has taught us anything, it is the value of one’s health. We have seen how this viral infections has wreaked havoc, not only on one’s physical well-being, but also on one’s finances and social interactions. Also, keeping fit has become challenging for many with exercising outside the home and in the gym no longer among the options available. It is no wonder, then, that bloggers have chosen to dwell on how to maintain one’s health and fitness during this time.

Ces Dimalanta of Manila Millennial, for instance, guides her readers on how to conduct a COVID-19 self assessment using FightCOVID.app.

Prevention is better than cure so it’s good that we continue monitoring ourselves if we develop symptoms, but at the moment, there’s just so much strain on medical workers and doing a self-check is the least that we can do to help. – Manila Millennial

Dale Palisoc of The Little Binger, on the other hand, shares a list of free apps and websites on home workouts that can help his bingers to keep on track with their health goals.

We spent every single day at home because we are restricted and it is not safe… But you know what it is not healthy to stay stagnant. We still have to keep on moving. The big question, however, is how to do it? Especially now that gyms are closed and it is terrifying to jog outside… – The Little Binger

Home is the place to be… stuck in?

The home emerged as the safest place to be in, but, as most of us discovered, it is not always the most comfortable or the most entertaining. People who are used to going out and having a social life now find themselves isolated. Families who used to just see each other at dinnertime or on weekends now spend the whole day in each other’s company. The problem that arose from these scenarios is how to while away the time while “stuck” at home? These bloggers may have just the answer.

Nicole San Miguel of Living Beyond Style, Wendyflor Palomo of Wendyflor.com and Mikhaela Adarve of Youthsoloartsy.com, all give their own takes on how one can make the most of the time at home resulting from the quarantine.

Community quarantine may be a disorientating experience, especially for those of us who are used to spending most of our time outside the house. But, it’s also essential to look on the bright side, while channeling our energy into some productive activities. – Living Beyond Style

Beyond my motherhood duties to my two sons, I have come to appreciate the time I have: to do things I have always wanted to do but never got to, because I have always put them aside. – Wendyflor.com

Don’t forget to smile and be positive regardless of what situation you are in. One creative hobby helps us a lot to be more productive and manage our mental health to lessen the stress level. Despite the current situation, it always good to remember you got the passion to do things right and be the right person to deliver results to continue your undeniably creative hobby. – Youthsoloartsy

How can we get our hands on those food!

Anybody who knows me also knows that the enjoyment of good food is central to my happiness. When the community quarantine was implemented, my foodie friends and I worried about our favorite restos, and rightfully so. The restaurant industry was among the most badly hit by the pandemic and the resulting lockdown with the reduced clientele, lack of manpower and rising overhead costs putting a huge strain on their finances.

Those who were able to pivot their operations to be viable by making their food available for pickup or delivery stand a chance at surviving in The New Normal.

Plus, for those who are not used to cooking their own food, having tasty and easily accessible food options will make the quarantine restrictions seem not as harsh.

Since the start of the quarantine, I have featured noteworthy dishes from these establishments which can now be enjoyed at home. If you have time, do check out my posts on Fresh Takes on Filipino Food for Araw ng Kalayaan and Extraordinary Sushi for International Sushi Day.

So, what’s next?

Through all the difficulties we faced due to the pandemic, we are buoyed by the hope that someday it will end. When that day comes, we need to be prepared on what do do.

Ivan Jose of Ivan + Khris’ Travels gives advice to would-be travelers on how to travel safely and hassle-free.

Practice social distancing as much as you can. When exploring city centers and parks, take cycling tours instead of walking tours or bus tours. Cycling presents the least risk of coming into close contact with other tourists. Plus, cycling is great for your health at any time! – Ivan + Khris’ Travels

GV Caplas of Wandering Good Vibes presents a 30-day challenge to her readers to divert them from their worries and anxieties.

#30DayNewNormalChallenge aims to help citizens face this New Normal phenomenon. This will allow us to just live day-by-day unaware that we have adapted positively with this universal change. – Wandering Good Vibes

Karla Obispo of Travel with Karla, on the other hand, provides a playbook on how to be a decent person in the time of COVD-19 which I think still applies into The New Normal.

There are many ways on how to be a good citizen in the time of COVID-19. I hope you choose to be one. – Travel with Karla

Navigating the way into a new set of circumstances, norms and environments as a result of COVID-19 may seem daunting, but be assured, your blogger friends are with you ready to share what we can to guide, inspire or entertain you into The New Normal.

Many thanks to my fellow bloggers for contributing to this post!

Photo Credits:
Header photo by Sarah Killian on Unsplash
Health and Fitness photo by Cathy Pham on Unsplash
Home Life photo by Tanaphong Toochinda on Unsplash
Food photo by Victor He on Unsplash
Beyond photo by Dan Meyers on Unsplash