Embrace a flavorful escape from the Monday blues with Chowking’s latest offering: the Sweet ‘n Sour Chef Specials! The leading Chinese quick-service restaurant in the Philippines presents an enticing opportunity to break away from the routine.
Monday Makeover: Breaking the Routine
Mondays often arrive with the burden of routine, leaving many feeling weary and unenthusiastic. However, Chowking offers an appealing solution to infuse Mondays with a burst of flavor. Whether you’re on your lunch break or looking for a pambaon for your little one, Chowking’s new Sweet ‘n Sour Chef Specials promise an exhilarating departure from the ordinary. Now, you can dive into a taste adventure that diverges from your standard Monday fare.
Thanks to Chowking’s Sweet & Sour Pork, featuring succulent meat slices bathed in the Chef’s special sauce alongside bell peppers, red onions, pineapple chunks, and an infusion of wok flavor, as well as the Sweet & Sour Chicken and the crispy Sweet & Sour Fish, there’s an array of tantalizing options.
New Week, New Partner
Kickstart the week with Chowking’s Sweet & Sour Dish, offering a burst of flavors to transform your Monday into a delightful exploration of taste. Available for dining in at your nearest Chowking outlet or for convenient enjoyment at home through Take-Out, Drive-Thru, and delivery via chowkingdelivery.com or the Chowking App, the Sweet ‘n Sour Chef Specials are set to make every Monday a #MondayTryDay.
Stay Connected
To stay updated on the latest offerings and promotions, follow Chowking across various social media platforms: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.
Chowking’s Sweet ‘n Sour Chef Specials aim to revolutionize your Mondays, turning them from mundane to mouthwatering, promising a delectable start to your week.
Ernest Hemingway once cited The Manila Hotel as “the perfect representation of the city, if not the country’s resilience, vitality, versatility and hospitality.”
This certainly is true as the iconic Grand Dame not only evokes the prestige and nostalgia of the old city, but, as its current president Joey Lina put it, it also “is a repository of culture and history.”
And one of the exciting facets of Filipino culture that the hotel regularly sheds light on is Pinoy cuisine.
Fresh off its successful homage to Laguna’s annual food festival, Anilag or Ani ng Laguna, the hotel’s legendary dining destination, Cafe Ilang-Ilang highlights Western Visayan cuisine for the whole month of August.
A Collaboration in Heritage Cuisine
For this month’s feature on regional culinary traditions and innovations, Cafe Ilang-Ilang collaborated with Chef Rafael “Tibong” Jardeleza, Jr. Hailing from Western Visayas himself, Chef Tibong is a champion of heritage cuisine and brings the region’s diverse culinary delights to join the cafe’s buffet offerings.
Chef Tibong Jardeleza
Chef Tibong with The Manila Hotel’s chefs
Western Visayas, known as the Food Haven of the Philippines, boasts a vibrant food culture that reflects its rich history, geography, and cultural influences. The partnership between Cafe Ilang-Ilang and Chef Tibong showcases a tapestry of flavors, offering a contemporary twist to classic dishes as well as the region’s local recipes, distinct ingredients, and time-honored cooking techniques.
Top Picks Among the Flavors of Western Visayas
Together with fellow bloggers, I attended a special preview of the Flavors of Western Visayas at The Manila Hotel’s Cafe Ilang-Ilang.
Curious about the heritage dishes to be savored there? Check out my top picks below:
Lechon Cerveza
Guimaras Mango Lobster Salad
Kinilaw na Tanigue
Grilled Lambchop with Tamarind Sauce
Duck ala Mangga
Callos
Diwal
Pineapple-Glazed Ham
Chicken Galantina
Paella Negra with Chiperones
Dulce de Gatas
La Paz Baboy Ice Cream
These are just a sampling the delicious flavors of Western Visayas, available on rotation at the Filipino food station of Cafe Ilang-Ilang until August 31.
The International Buffet
If you want to venture out from our homegrown flavors, you can also check out Cafe Ilang-Ilang’s extensive array of cuisines from around the globe. Brace yourself for a mouthwatering journey as you visit each station:
Salads and Breads Station: Vibrant, crisp salads, freshly baked bread, an assortment of cheeses, and delicatessen treats await your eager taste buds.
Churrasco Station: Portuguese-style grilled beef, pork, chicken, lamb, sausages, and seafood skewers, accompanied by a variety of delectable sauces, promise to satisfy your cravings.
Pan-Asian Station: A delightful selection of dim sum, sushi, sashimi, noodles, dumplings, and stir-fries will transport you to the streets of Asia.
Italian Station: Indulge in mouthwatering pizzas and pastas, freshly prepared and cooked to perfection.
Mediterranean Station: Refreshing salads, fresh seafood, halal dishes, and perfectly grilled meats evoke the coastal charm of the Mediterranean.
American Station: Sink your teeth into juicy steaks and tender roasts, epitomizing the hearty flavors of the United States.
Dessert Station: Satisfy your sweet tooth with luscious cakes, pies, pastries, and creamy ice cream that will leave you longing for more.
The dinner buffet at Cafe Ilang-Ilang is available daily from 6 pm to 10 pm. On Sundays to Wednesdays, it is priced at Php3,145 for adults and Php1,572 for children. On Thursdays to Saturdays, the price is Php3,790 for adults and Php1,895 for children. To secure your table, make inquiries, or reservations, contact +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, or send an email to restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com.
Stay updated on The Manila Hotel’s news and offers by following it on Facebook and Instagram.
Check out my previous posts about The Manila Hotel’s Cafe Ilang-Ilang:
One Saturday morning, I had the pleasure of meeting up with my former officemates at The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery in Bonifacio Global City. Here, we gathered around the big central table, reminiscing about our days working together and catching up on the new goings-on in our lives, and soaked up the relaxing atmosphere of the cafe.
A Modern Industrial Haven
The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery boasts of a modern and industrial concept that exudes urban charm. With painted brick walls, concrete floors, and stylish modern lighting, the cafe’s design sets the stage for a trendy and inviting dining experience. Large glass windows allow natural light to flood in, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease.
Friendly Vibes and Attentive Service
One of the standout aspects of our brunch experience was the friendly and attentive staff at The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery. From the time I called the branch to reserve our table to the time we arrived and dined there, the staff made us feel right at home. They ensured that our orders were taken and served promptly with a smile. With such efficient service, we were able to savor our brunch without any unnecessary delays.
A Delectable Brunch Spread
The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery’. Their’s menu includes a delightful selection of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, ensuring that there’s something for everyone’s taste buds. Here are some of the standout dishes that made our brunch truly unforgettable:
Breakfast Steak Skillet. A juicy ribeye steak, perfectly paired with garlic confit, garlic rice, a grilled tomato, and a fried egg.
SS Poppers. Crispy beer-battered deep-fried shrimp and squid, and served with a zesty lemon wedge and tangy aioli dip.
Avocado Toast. The classic combination of mashed avocado, poached eggs, and a sprinkle of spices on thick-cut sourdough bread and topped with arugula and feta cheese.
Tartufo Pasta. Fettuccini tossed in truffle cream, porcini mushrooms, prosciutto, and Parmesan cheese.
Soy Honey Seared Tuna. A light and refreshing option made with herb-crusted tuna seared to perfection, glazed with a sesame sriracha sauce and topped with arugula and cherry tomatoes.
Kale-Crusted Salmon. A healthy and flavorful dish featuring oven-roasted salmon crusted with kale pesto, and served on a bed of quinoa and salted French beans.
TFS Signature Pork Chop. A juicy and tender bone-in pork chop cooked sous vide and served with a delectable herbed butter and rice.
Wagyu Pares. Up-leveled Pinoy dish made with succulent wagyu beef braised in sweet soy sauce and spices and served with fried rice and beef broth on stackable steel containers, a nostalgic nod to our grade school lunch boxes.
Coffee and Refreshing Beverages
No brunch is complete without a satisfying cup of coffee or a refreshing beverage. At The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery, you can choose from a range of options to quench your thirst and satisfy your caffeine cravings. Some noteworthy choices include:
Cappuccino. Combines espresso, steamed milk, and a thick layer of foam.
Latte. A classic coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk.
Mango Sunshine Smoothie. A refreshing and fruity delight made with luscious mango, banana, and chia seeds.
The morning spent with my former coworkers at The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery was a joyful experience filled with laughter, good food, and heartwarming memories. The cafe’s modern industrial ambiance, friendly service, and delectable menu options make it an ideal venue for brunch and get-togethers with friends. So, if you’re a foodie on the hunt for a fantastic brunch spot, make sure to add The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery to your list. Head over, relax, indulge, and create new memories over a delightful brunch that will leave you longing for more.
This branch of The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery is located at the Ground Floor, One Meridien Tower, 9th Avenue corner 27th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, open daily from 10am to 8.30pm.
Other branches are located at:
2/F Greenbelt 3, Esperanza Street, Ayala Center, Makati
Ground Floor, Phase 2, UP Town Center, Katipunan Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City
Check out my previous posts about The Fat Seed Cafe:
Prepare your taste buds for a delightful adventure that will transport you to the beautiful province of Laguna, where rich flavors and centuries-old recipes await. The Manila Hotel recently unveiled a delectable collaboration that brings together two culinary powerhouses, Café Ilang-Ilang and Calle Arco, for an extraordinary dining experience like no other. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey that celebrates the vibrant tastes of Laguna and its captivating culinary heritage.
Café Ilang-Ilang, the legendary dining destination at The Manila Hotel renowned for its extensive international buffet spread, has joined forces with Calle Arco, a historic ancestral home in Pagsanjan, Laguna, that has been transformed into a restaurant of Filipino food wonders. Together, they have crafted a culinary masterpiece that pays homage to Laguna’s annual food festival, Anilag or Ani ng Laguna, a splendid celebration of the region’s rich culinary traditions.
EJ Yap, The Manila Hotel’s Assistant Director for Food & Beverage, can barely contain his excitement about this collaboration. “We are absolutely thrilled to introduce AniLag to all the wonderful patrons of Café Ilang-Ilang. This partnership allows us to honor our cultural heritage in the most delectable way possible,” he shares.
Throughout the entire month of July, Café Ilang-Ilang will be your gateway to experiencing the magic of the Anilag festival. Brace yourselves for a carefully curated menu that showcases the authentic and time-honored recipes of Calle Arco, passed down through generations. From the very first bite, you will be transported to the heart of Laguna, where flavors dance on your palate and whisper tales of culinary tradition.
Prepare to indulge in a feast fit for royalty as you savor some of the festival’s highlights. Let your taste buds revel in the crispy, succulent goodness of Binagoongang Crispy Pata, a dish that combines the irresistible allure of crispy pork leg with the rich flavors of bagoong. Experience the regal delight of Hurnong Lechon, a roasted pig prepared with meticulous care and secret ingredients that elevate it to the status of a true gastronomic masterpiece.
But wait, there’s more! Brace yourself for a parade of flavors that will dazzle and delight. Savor the velvety richness of Kare-Kare (Galapong), a traditional Filipino stew made with a unique twist. Dive into the luscious depths of Pancit Habhab, a stir-fried noodle dish that will have you coming back for seconds. Indulge in the comforting embrace of Sinigang na Baka na may Langka, a tangy beef soup infused with the sweetness of ripe jackfruit. And that’s just the beginning!
Grilled Pla-Pla with Pako will take you on a journey to the lush landscapes of Laguna, with its perfectly grilled fish adorned with a refreshing fern salad. And for the grand finale, let the divine flavors of Kamote de Leche enchant your senses, as this delightful dessert made from sweet potatoes and creamy milk leaves you craving for more.
Are you salivating yet? Well, the good news is that these mouthwatering dishes will be available on a rotating basis throughout the month at Café Ilang-Ilang’s lunch and dinner buffets, ensuring that you have ample opportunities to indulge in Laguna’s culinary treasures. So, gather your fellow food enthusiasts, bring your appetites, and let the flavors of Laguna whisk you away on an unforgettable culinary adventure.
For more information and to secure your spot at this extraordinary celebration of flavors and culture, call (+632) 8527-0011 or (+632) 5301-5500, or simply shoot an email to restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com. Don’t miss out on this chance to experience the culinary wonders of Laguna right here in the heart of Manila. AniLag at Café Ilang-Ilang awaits you!
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.
We often hear of restaurants referred to as “hidden gems,” those little-known or undiscovered dining spots that offers exceptional food, service, or ambiance that is worth discovering.
Often tucked away in some out-of-the-way location, these spots may be hard to find but but once discovered, they offer a unique and unforgettable dining experience that makes them stand out from other more well-known restaurants.
It’s no wonder then that foodies like me are always on the lookout for hidden gems; aside from the delicious and unique eats, we greatly enjoy the feeling discovering a hidden treasure that is not widely known, and we take pride in sharing our discovery with others who share our passion for great food.
One such discovery is Amah Restaurant in Taguig City.
A quarantine venture
Amah Restaurant was founded by Chef Jose Villarreal, a young culinary prodigy who parlayed his childhood interest in cuisines into a budding career as a chef. While on lockdown in 2020, he and his classmates at the prestigious Enderun Colleges set about gaining real-world experience in their field by launching their own food business headquartered in Jose’s family home in Taguig.
From researching, test cooking and initially selling food products online, Jose and his team eventually opened AMAH Restaurant, named after his maternal grandmother, situated at the roof deck of his family home in 2021. By October 2022, the restaurant gained accreditation from Enderun Colleges as an establishment where its students can undergo their on-the-job training.
Amah Restaurant is known for its heirloom Filipino-Chinese dishes with a twist such as Sisig Stuffed Chicken Wings, Smoked Char Siu Pork Belly with Bao Buns and Bibingka Cheesecake. These delicacies are prepared by the young chefs who made it a point to use local ingredients and put their own unique twists to heirloom recipes.
The restaurant also treats its patrons to a breathtaking view of the Makati and BGC cityscapes. Sunsets were definitely amazing on the upper roofdeck, making it a favorite for engagement proposals, anniversaries, and other special occasions.
A dream collaboration
Chef Jose recently led his team of fellow student-chefs for a dream collaboration with Chef Donovan Cooke from Melbourne, Australia on a two-night dinner event which featured 14 specially-curated gourmet courses from Chef Donovan’s menu. These dishes were prepared by Chef Jose and his Amah team under the supervision of Chef Donovan himself.
Chef Donovan is known for his exceptional culinary skills and his extensive experience in the fine dining industry. He has worked in some of the most prestigious restaurants around the world and gained recognition for his expertise in seafood as well as for his innovative and creative approach to cooking, which combines classic French techniques with modern Australian flavors.
“This was such an honor for Amah and a great treat for our clientele,” Chef Jose shared. “We were so excited to have had the opportunity to work in the same kitchen as Chef Donovan and to have him guide us as we prepared dishes he developed. It was definitely a major milestone for all of us at Amah. And our guests for those two nights were so lucky for the experience that was in store.”
Chef Donovan Cooke was just as excited about the dinner event. “These young chefs are very dedicated and passionate about their craft. They could have taken it easy during the pandemic, found an excuse to just lay around and rest like many of us did during the lockdowns. But they forged ahead because they’re all determined to continue learning and honing their talents. It was my privilege to be one of their mentors, to encourage them as they make their marks in the business.”
A symphony of flavors
The 14-course dinner took Amah Restaurant’s guests on an exciting flavor journey, with each dish thoughtfully designed to showcase the interplay of ingredients.
The meal startsedwith a refreshing Chilled Oyster Truffle Soup with cos lettuce, followed by the delicate balance of Mud Crab with pomelo, coriander, and ginger. The Torched Sardines with escabeche olive offered a burst of smoky and umami flavors, while the Seared Spiced Tuna with Watercress, pickled mushroom, and truffle dressing offered a combination of spice and earthy notes.
Chilled Oyster Truffle Soup with cos lettuce
Mud Crab with pomelo, coriander and ginger
Torched Sardines with escabeche olive
Seared Spiced Tuna with Watercress, pickled mushroom and truffle dressing
The dinner progressed with the richness of the Mussels Mariniere with parsley and white wine sauce, and the Baby Squid with Pear, Parma Ham, and olive oil emulsion that offered a delightful play of sweet and savory flavors. The Grilled Octopus with Piperade and Spanish chorizo brought a smoky touch to the table, while the Slow Roast Free Range Chicken with celery heart and sauce Bois Bourdain offers a comforting and savory indulgence.
Mussels Mariniere with parsley and white wine sauce
Baby Squid with Pear, Parma Ham and olive oil emulsion
Grilled Octopus with piperade and Spanish chorizo
Slow Roast Free Range Chicken with celery heart and sauce Bois Bourdain
The Hibachi Grilled King Prawn with asparagus and shellfish citrus vinaigrette added a burst of freshness, while the Curry Roast Mahi-Mahi with cauliflower, capers, raisins, and apple offered a unique blend of sweet and spicy flavors. The Spiced Roast Duck with fig compote and spice jus brought a depth of flavors with its combination of sweet and savory notes, while the Braised Beef Shin with balsamic onion and bordelaise sauce offered a rich and succulent experience.
Hibachi Grilled King Prawn with asparagus and shellfish citrus vinaigrette
Curry Roast Mahi-Mahi with cauliflower, capers, raisins and apple
Spiced Roast Duck with fig compote and spice jus
Braised Beef Shin with balsamic onion and bordelaise sauce
The meal came to a close with the delightful Mango and Almond Cake with Mango Salad and Banana Passionfruit Sorbet, followed by the Spiced Pineapple with Pain Perdu and gingerbread ice cream, offering a sweet and tangy finale to the flavor journey.
Mango and Almond Cake with Mango Salad and Banana Passionfruit Sorbet
Spiced Pineapple with Pain Perdu and gingerbread ice cream
To fully appreciate the intricacies of each dish, diners were encouraged to savor each bite, to allow the flavors to linger on the palate while taking note of the unique combinations of ingredients, the textures, and the subtle nuances of flavors that Chef Jose and his team have masterfully crafted. Each dish tells a story, a culmination of culinary expertise and creativity, meant to be savored and enjoyed to the fullest.
After successfully executing a challenging 14-course menu in collaboration with Chef Donovan Cooke, it’s clear that Chef Jose Villareal and his team of student-chefs from Amah Restaurant are ready to take the local food scene by storm. This unique culinary experience allowed them to showcase their skills and creativity in the kitchen, while learning from a master chef like Donovan Cooke.
It sure is exciting to anticipate what more these enterprising young restaurateurs will be able to come up with in the future with the hidden gem Amah Restaurant as the backdrop for these culinary adventures!
Amah Restaurant is located at 27 F. Segundo Street, Phase 4, AFPOVAI, Taguig City, open Tuesdays to Fridays from 5pm to 10pm and Saturdays to Sundays from 10am to 10pm.
Disclosure: Together with fellow content creators, I attended a food tasting held at this restaurant. Food items mentioned here were served to us at no cost.
Jellybeans in the City 