food exploration – Jellybeans in the City

A taste of old Beijing at Dragon Court, Manila Prince Hotel

Ever since the Manila Prince’s Dragon Court reopened its doors last September, I’ve been wanting a taste of its esteemed menu. After all, this gastronomic destination is on a worthy mission: to preserve the restaurant’s cherished signature flavors while introducing a tantalizing array of new dishes, an endeavor that foodie who’s always on the lookout for delicious adventures fully supports.

Old-World Beijing Charm

The Manila Standard aptly described Dragon Court as emanating “old Beijing feels,” a sentiment I wholeheartedly agree with. Stepping into this restaurant transported me to a realm that seamlessly blended old-world Beijing charm with the excitement of contemporary Chinese cuisine.

Immersed in hues of red and gold, Dragon Court exudes an unmistakable aura of traditional grandeur. Dragon motifs, lanterns, and traditional arches gracefully adorn the restaurant, creating an ambiance that’s both regal and inviting. High-backed chairs encircle round tables equipped with iconic lazy Susans, ensuring an enjoyable, communal dining experience.

Well-Suited for a Myriad of Celebrations

Dragon Court proves to be an ideal venue for a myriad of celebrations. From intimate family dinners to larger get-togethers, this restaurant effortlessly caters to diverse occasions, making it a versatile destination for Chinese food enthusiasts seeking not just a meal but a memorable experience.

For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, Dragon Court offers private rooms that elevate the dining experience. I discovered that these spaces are not only perfect for intimate gatherings but also serve as splendid venues for Filipino-Chinese engagement ceremonies known as tinghun, adding a cultural and personal touch to special events.

Chinese Culinary Journey

The heart of Dragon Court lies in its culinary offerings, a diverse menu curated by Chef EJ Yap and her team. This tasty collection takes diners on a journey through classic and innovative Chinese delights, some of which I was able to enjoy during a recent visit with a friend.

Dimsum Delights

The dimsum offerings are a testament to the craftsmanship in Dragon Court’s kitchen. From the delicate folds of Xiao Long Bao (Php300/3pcs) to the burst of flavors in the Shrimp and Pork Siu Mai with Crab Roe (Php280/3pcs), each bite is a symphony of taste. The Steamed Shrimp Dumpling (Php240/3pcs), more commonly known as Hakaw, with its generous and succulent filling, further elevated our dimsum experience.

Savoring Soups

I can say that Dragon Court’s soul-warming soup selections certainly started our meal right. The Eight Treasure Wintermelon Soup (Php390), a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, and the Braised Assorted Seafood and Fish Maw Soup (Php320), a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients, showcase the culinary prowess behind each creation.

Satisfying Mains

The main courses at Dragon Court are a celebration of the diverse possibilities inherent in Chinese cuisine. I can’t imagine a Chinese meal without Yang Chow Fried Rice (Php280), and this was no exception, as it pairs well with other delicious dishes such as another classic like the Sweet and Sour Pork with Pineapple (Php380).

The Vegetarian Stewed Eggplant in Clay Pot (Php320) offered a hearty and flavorful option, while the Braised Grouper Fillet and Vermicelli in Hotpot (Php420) was quite a sensory delight. On the other hand, the Fried Shrimp Ball with Mozzarella Cheese (Php680) presented a delectable surprise.

Sweet Endings

No culinary journey is complete without a sweet denouement, and Dragon Court delivered it in style with its Hot Almond Cream with Glutinous Rice Ball (Php120), a warm milky embrace for the taste buds, and the Mango Tapioca Pudding (Php220), which provided a refreshing and delightful conclusion to the feast.

Want a similar Chinese feast? Dine in at Dragon Court and take yourself on sumptuous journey through classic and contemporary Chinese cooking.

Dragon Court is located at Manila Prince Hotel, #1000 San Marcelino Street, Ermita, Manila near UN Square, open daily for lunch service from 11am to 3pm and dinner from 6pm to 10pm.

For inquiries and reservations, call +63 2 53282222 local 1231 or email fnb@manilaprince.com.

Keep updated on Dragon Court’s menu and offers by visiting Manila Prince’s website or following the hotel on Facebook and Instagram.

Disclosure: Menu items were served at no charge in exchange for honest feedback and to facilitate this feature story.

Taiwanese Culinary Bliss at Din Tai Fung, SM Megamall

Are you on the hunt for a taste of authentic Taiwanese cuisine that will leave your taste buds singing? Well, look no further than Din Tai Fung. This award-winning Taiwanese restaurant, renowned for its exquisite Xiaolongbao, has found its way to the heart of the Philippines, and it’s not just a restaurant – it’s an experience!

The Moment Group brought the magic of Din Tai Fung to the Philippines in 2015, opening its first branch at the ever-vibrant SM Megamall. Since then, this food haven has expanded to other locations, including BGC, Power Plant Mall, Greenbelt 3, SM North EDSA and SM Mall of Asia, delighting the metro’s foodies.

During a recent shopping trip with my Hubby and son at SM Megamall, we treated ourselves to a Taiwanese feast for lunch at Din Tai Fung.

The Meaning Behind the Name

Ever wondered about the meaning behind Din Tai Fung’s name? Each character holds significance that aligns perfectly with the restaurant’s vision. “鼎” (Din) stands for Wok, symbolizing the traditional cooking method used to create some of their delectable dishes. “泰” (Tai) represents Peace, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Din Tai Fung – a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere for you to indulge in Taiwanese goodness. Finally, “豐” (Fung) stands for Abundance, promising a dining experience that leaves you fully satisfied and wanting more.

The Concept and Ambiance

Similar to other Din Tai Fung restaurants, the ambiance of its SM branch is marked by simplicity and understated charm.

While waiting for our table, we watched the expert chefs busily crafting the dimsum and rolling noodles from scratch.

The newly renovated interiors feature light wood walls elegantly adorned with LED screens and anime-style posters, minimalist wooden tables and chairs, and a relaxed dress code which set the stage for a laid-back yet elegant dining experience.

Whether you’re here with friends, family, or just treating yourself, Din Tai Fung promises an atmosphere that allows you to focus on what truly matters – the food.

Efficient Ordering, Serving, and Payment Process

One of the most unique aspects of dining at Din Tai Fung is the efficient and interactive ordering process. As my Hubby, son, and I settled into our seats, we were handed a clipboard with a list of mouthwatering dishes. Excited to explore the menu, we ticked off the dishes we craved, specifying the serving size and quantity we desired. Our choices were swiftly logged into the restaurant’s system, and a printed list was posted on our table to guide the servers in delivering the dishes we ordered.

After our meal, we settled our bill at the counter where payments via cash, credit or debit cards, Maya e-wallet are accepted.

The Mouthwatering Taiwanese Feast

Our lunch feast at Din Tai Fung was a combination of our all-time Taiwanese food faves as well as new dishes we wanted to try. The resulting symphony of flavors whisked us away to the streets of Taiwan.

Din Tai Fung’s iconic Pork Xiao Long Bao (Php375) are delicate parcels of heaven. Thanks to a visual guide shown by the wait staff, we were able to savor the full experience of eating our xiao long bao. This involved dipping our dumpling in a sauce made with made with ginger slivers, soy sauce and vinegar, placing it on a spoon and poking a small home into to release the broth, and then gently biting into it to get the full flavor explosion from the soup and the luscious pork filling.

Hubby couldn’t resist the Hot Sour Soup (Php215). The tangy, spicy, and savory broth filled with vegetables and tofu warmed him up for the rest of the meal.

Apparently, I also couldn’t resist the temptation of the Pork Roasted Garlic Bun (Php175), thanks to the rich, savory flavor of its pork, garlic, and scallions filling combined with the fluffy, steamed bun.

The Shrimp Shao Mai (Php255), on the other hand, is a treat to the eyes and tastebuds, thanks to its delicate wrapper and the sweetness of shrimp mingled with pork and mushrooms.

To balance our indulgence, we savored the Organic Spinach (Php285), lightly stir-fried with garlic and scallions. This simple yet delightful dish was a refreshing break, adding a dose of health to our feast.

The Salted Egg Squid (Php465), made with crispy, tender squid slices coated in a salty, savory egg batter, is an old favorite that we can always go for.

The 3 Cups Chicken (Php305), on the other hand, was a delicious viand cooked to perfection in a soy sauce, ginger, and scallion sauce; the chicken was tender and juicy, complemented by the rich sauce.

Of course, we couldn’t skip the Shrimp Fried Rice (Php275), a delightful combination of shrimp, chicken, and vegetables tossed in a fragrant soy sauce, ginger, and scallion base. The crispy rice and the medley of flavors complemented the other dishes in our meal.

Din Tai Fung at SM Megamall is quite worth a visit, with every dish is crafted with meticulous care and attention to detail. The ambiance is inviting, the service impeccable, and the flavors unforgettable.

So, foodies, if you’re looking for an authentic Taiwanese dining experience that’s full of peace and abundance, Din Tai Fung is the place to be. Head over to their branches across Metro Manila and embark on a culinary adventure with your loved ones while savoring some of the finest Taiwanese cuisine around.

This Din Tai Fung branch is located at Level 2, Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, EDSA corner Doña Julia Vargas Avenue, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City, open daily from 10am to 10pm. For inquiries, call +63 2 89971935 or +63 919 0845376.

Other branches in Metro Manila are located at:

City	Address	Operation Hours	Contact Number
Pasay City	Level 1 South Entertainment Mall, SM Mall of Asia	10 AM-10 PM (Mon-Sun)	+63 2 85271364 / +63 928 5124433 / +63 928 5181466
Quezon City	2nd floor, City Center, SM North EDSA	10 AM-10 PM (Mon-Sun)	+63 2 84590292
Taguig	LG/C1, Bonifacio High Street Central, Bonifacio Global City	11 AM-11 PM (Mon-Thu) 10 AM-1 AM (Fri-Sat) 11 AM-1 AM (Sun)	+63 2 88091865 / +63 919 0785209
Makati City	R1 Level, Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center	11 AM-9 PM (Mon-Thu) 11 AM-10 PM (Fri) 10 AM-10 PM (Sat) 10 AM-9 PM (Sat)	+63 2 88382344 / +63 919 0845732 / +63 960 4383830
Makati City	Level 2, Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center	11 AM-9 PM (Sun-Thu) 11 AM-10 PM (Fri-Sat)	+63 2 71211933 / +63 919 0845370

Stay updated on Din Tai Fung’s menu and offers by visiting The Moment Group’s website or by following Din Tai Fung on Facebook and Instagram.

Silantro Fil-Mex Cantina: Exploring the flavors of Filipino-Mexican Fusion Cuisine

Looking for an exciting culinary adventure? Let me introduce you to a delightful dining experience that combines the vibrant flavors of two beloved cuisines: Filipino and Mexican. Silantro Fil-Mex Cantina, brings you a tantalizing menu that showcases the best of Fil-Mex fusion.

The Fusion of Filipino and Mexican Flavors

Silantro Fil-Mex Cantina embraces the concept of blending the distinctive tastes of Filipino and Mexican cuisines to create something truly exceptional. It’s a culinary fusion that seamlessly combines the bold and spicy elements of both cultures, resulting in an explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Immerse Yourself in the Festive Atmosphere

Aside from the tantalizing culinary creations, Silantro Fil-Mex Cantina is known for its vibrant and lively ambiance. Step into their restaurants adorned with colorful decorations and captivating Mexican artwork, instantly transporting you to a festive fiesta. The warm and friendly staff add an extra touch of hospitality, making your dining experience truly memorable.

Experience the Flavors: A Culinary Journey at Silantro Fil-Mex Cantina

Now that we’ve explored the rich history and convergence of flavors, it’s time to embark on a culinary journey at Silantro Fil-Mex Cantina. During my recent visit, my husband and I had the pleasure of savoring some of their most delightful offerings:

Dinamita (Php160). Crispy wontons filled with a tantalizing combination of ground beef and cheese, deep-fried to perfection and served with a spicy chili sauce. These little bites of heaven perfectly embody the fusion of Filipino and Mexican elements, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Carnitas Lucha Taco (Php110). Soft corn tortillas generously filled with shredded pork carnitas, topped with onions and shredded lettuce, and doused with a special Silantro sauce. Every bite is an explosion of savory goodness, with the pork’s tenderness complemented by the fresh flavors and crisp texture of the toppings.

Caliente Wings (Php290). Indulge in the succulent pleasure of marinated chicken wings, coated in Silantro’s special sweet and spicy sauce, and deep-fried to perfection. These wings are a testament to the restaurant’s ability to balance flavors and create addictive delights.

Beef & Lengua Burrito (Php250). A large flour tortilla envelops a filling of perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender beef tongue, rice, beans, and vegetables. The combination of textures and flavors in this burrito is a true testament to the harmonious fusion of Filipino and Mexican culinary traditions.

Silantro Fil-Mex Cantina is a haven for foodies seeking a delectable fusion of Filipino and Mexican flavors. With its inspired menu, reflecting the convergence of taste profiles and the influence of the Manila galleon trade, this culinary gem offers a remarkable dining experience. Embark on your own gastronomic adventure, indulge in the mouthwatering dishes, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. Discover the magic that happens when Filipino and Mexican cuisines come together at Silantro Fil-Mex Cantina!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your loved ones, bring your appetite, and dive into the world of Fil-Mex fusion at Silantro Fil-Mex Cantina. Your taste buds will thank you!

This branch of Silanto Fil-Mex Cantina is located at Eastwood Citywalk 1 (above TGI Fridays), Eastwood City, Bagumbayan, Quezon City, open Mondays to Thursdays from 10am to 9pm and Fridays to Sundays from 10am to 10pm. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 919 0687819.

Other Metro Manila branches are located at:

75 East Capitol Drive, Bgy. Kapitolyo, Pasig (Tel: +63 919 0687823 | +63 945 2518631)
2nd Level Phase 1, UP Town Center, 216 Katipunan Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City (Tel: +63 919 0687824 | +63915 0037403)
Ground Floor, Alabang Town Center, 1780 Theater Drive, Ayala Alabang, Muntinlupa (Tel: +63 2 83645463 | +63 919 0687821)

Know more about its menu and offers by following Silantro Fil-Mex Cantina 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:

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: