pasta – Jellybeans in the City

Bring Italy to your table with Doña Elena’s Premium Pasta Sauces

There’s something magical about gathering around the table for a comforting, home-cooked meal—and for many Filipino families, pasta is at the heart of these shared moments. Whether it’s a simple weekday dinner or a festive celebration, a delicious pasta dish never fails to bring people together. Now, with Doña Elena’s line of authentic Italian pasta sauces, every home cook can create flavorful dishes that feel both effortless and gourmet.

A Taste of Italy, Made Easy

Known as a trusted name in olive oil and Mediterranean cooking essentials, Doña Elena continues to make European-inspired cuisine accessible to Filipino homes. Their newest addition, the Doña Elena 100% Italian Premium Pasta Sauces, is crafted from fresh, high-quality ingredients—no preservatives, just pure Italian goodness in every jar.

These sauces aren’t just for pasta. They’re wonderfully versatile, elevating pizzas, dips, spreads, and even marinades with a rich, homemade flavor. Whether you’re a kitchen beginner or a passionate home chef, these sauces promise to turn everyday meals into something special.

Four Flavors to Inspire Every Meal

Each variety of Doña Elena Pasta Sauce is designed to complement different pasta cuts and culinary moods:

Marinara – Made with 100% Italian Tomatoes
A classic sauce made from sun-ripened Italian tomatoes, slow-cooked with herbs to create a smooth, tangy, and savory flavor.
Perfect for: Spaghetti, Linguine, lasagna, chicken Parmesan, or roasted vegetables.
Arrabbiata – With Italian Peppers
For those who love a little heat, this fiery blend of tomatoes, chili peppers, and herbs delivers bold flavor with an authentic Italian kick.
Perfect for: Penne Rigate, seafood, or grilled vegetables.
Artichokes & Walnuts Sauce
A creamy and nutty combination of earthy artichokes and crunchy walnuts, enhanced with aromatic herbs for a rich, gourmet touch.
Perfect for: Fettuccine, pizza, bruschetta, or as a dip with crackers.
Pesto Sauce – With Pecorino Cheese
A vibrant, basil-based sauce with parsley, sunflower oil, and sharp Pecorino cheese for a creamy yet bold finish.
Perfect for: Linguine, grilled meats, roasted potatoes, or sandwiches.

Perfect Pairings with Doña Elena Al Dente Pasta

Of course, great sauce deserves great pasta. The Doña Elena Al Dente line—made from 100% durum wheat semolina and crafted using traditional bronze dies—boasts a unique texture that helps sauce cling perfectly to each strand or shape. Available in Fettuccine, Linguine, Lasagna, Penne Rigate, and Fusilli, this artisan-quality pasta ensures rich, flavorful bites every time.

Celebrate Pasta Month with Doña Elena

This Pasta Month, take your culinary creativity to the next level and discover your perfect pasta pairing. Mix and match the flavor profiles of Doña Elena Pasta Sauces with the different cuts of Doña Elena Al Dente Pasta—and enjoy endless ways to savor authentic Italian flavors right in your own home.

Make every meal a celebration of good taste, good company, and the goodness of Doña Elena.

Doña Elena Pasta Sauces and Doña Elena Al Dente Pasta are exclusively distributed by Fly Ace Corporation in the Philippines. For more tips, recipes, and promos visit @donaelenacuisineraclub on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Discover Mamma Mia: Home of the 6-foot Pizza Lunga and Italian Culinary Magic!

If you’re seeking to transport your taste buds straight to Italy, Mamma Mia in Uptown Mall, Fort Bonifacio is your ultimate culinary destination. From the moment you step through its doors, you’re greeted by an ambiance reminiscent of an Italian villa, exuding warmth and rustic charm. The airy outdoor dining area, the brick-walled interiors adorned with colorful knickknacks and the dynamic energy from the open kitchen set the scene for an Italian feast straight out of a movie.

A Taste of Italy in BGC

Mamma Mia doesn’t just stop at its decor; it aims to bring the full Italian resto-bar experience to its patrons. The brainchild of Giulius Iapino, owner of Rigatoni Corp., this place offers a one-stop-shop experience. As the day progresses, the atmosphere evolves – from morning coffee to lively nights with dim lights, louder music, and DJs spinning tracks, mirroring the dynamic ambiance of Italy.

The core of Mamma Mia’s mission is to encapsulate the essence of a family-owned trattoria in Italy, a place where great food brings people together for social gatherings, much like a mother’s kitchen. The owner, Giulius, noted the gap in all-day offerings in the Philippines and decided to bring a piece of Rome to the country. This concept allows customers to enjoy meals throughout the day and even transition seamlessly into a party vibe as the night unfolds.

Italian Comfort Food: A Mother’s Love on a Plate

Gulius has noted that in the Philippines, a mother’s love often translates to sumptuous meals that leave you feeling welcome and satisfied. Mamma Mia aims to encapsulate this comfort within its restaurant, presenting a diverse array of Italian classics that range from wood-fired pizzas to hearty entrees. Each dish is meticulously prepared using top-tier ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, embracing the heart and soul of Italian comfort food.

Every bite at Mamma Mia takes you on a culinary journey through the regions of Italy. The commitment to authenticity extends to the use of fresh herbs, imported meats, cold cuts, cheeses, and premium olive oil. These elements ensure an unparalleled dining experience that captures the true essence of Italian cuisine, making Mamma Mia a haven for Italian food enthusiasts.

The Great Pizza Eating Contest: Are You Up for the Challenge?

Recently, Mamma Mia introduced a thrilling challenge to the #WeLoveToEatPH community, a group of dedicated foodies in the metro. The challenge was to conquer the Great Pizza Eating Contest featuring the star of the show – the Pizza Lunga, a remarkable 6-foot long pizza. This colossal pizza is divided into three mouthwatering sections: Margherita with Anchovies, Crema Tartufo, and Pepperoni.

Teams were tasked to devour as many slices of the Pizza Lunga as possible within a 30-minute timeframe. Though no team managed to polish off their pizza slices entirely (given its impressive size!), the event was a delightful and entertaining experience for both the contestants and the supportive audience, including myself.

Think you can outdo my foodie friends? Take on the challenge yourself and savor the Pizza Lunga for just Php1950.

Beyond the Pizza: Other Italian Culinary Delights

At Mamma Mia, the Italian gastronomic adventure doesn’t end with the Pizza Lunga. The menu boasts an enticing selection of Italian dishes, promising a delightful journey for your taste buds. It includes:

Formaggi Misti (Php770). Indulge in a traditional variety of Italian cheeses, a treat for cheese aficionados.

Antipasti Fritti (Php450). Immerse yourself in the crispy delight of deep-fried suppli (rice balls), croquettes di patate, and mozzarella bites.

Fettuccini Alfredo Con Pollo (Php420 single | Php1,400 sharing). Enjoy homemade sauce combined with cream and perfectly sliced chicken, a creamy pasta delight.

Vongole Php420 single | Php1,400 sharing). Delight in sautéed clams, garlic, and a slightly spicy white wine sauce, a taste of the sea and Italy combined.

Stinco di Miale al Forno (Php990). Experience succulent meat taken off the bone of a twice-cooked pork leg served with seared apples, apple gravy, and Mamma Mia’s special stico sauce.

Aperol Spritz. A light and refreshing cocktail made with prosecco, aperol, and soda water.

Buon Appetito at Mamma Mia!

Mamma Mia at Uptown Mall is more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary journey through the heart of Italy. From the inviting ambiance to the extensive menu featuring traditional and modern Italian dishes, it’s a haven for food enthusiasts seeking genuine Italian flavors. Don’t miss the chance to savor the diverse Italian dishes that Mamma Mia has to offer. Buon appetito!

Mamma Mia is located at Ground Floor, Uptown Mall, 9th Avenue corner 36th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, open daily from 11am to 9pm.

For more information on its menu and offerings, visit its website or follow Mamma Mia on Facebook or Instagram.

Disclosure: I attended a food tasting event hosted by Mamma Mia. Food and drinks were served to attendees were served at no cost in exchange for honest feedback and features.

Brews, bites and bonds: Foodie community comes together at Estate Coffeehouse in Paseo Center

Nestled in the heart of the bustling Makati Business District lies a hidden gem for coffee connoisseurs and aficionados alike. Estate Coffeehouse, a charming boutique three-storey coffee shop, has been quietly brewing up a storm with its exquisite selection of estate coffees as well as delectable brunch items and desserts, creating a haven for those who appreciate the art and science of coffee and the sheer pleasure of good food.

Stepping into Estate Coffeehouse feels like entering a world where time slows down and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air. The cozy and rustic interior, adorned with greenery and illuminated with soothing natural light, instantly transports visitors to a bygone era when coffee was savored slowly and with great care. The warm and welcoming ambiance, combined with the friendly and attentive service from the staff, creates an irresistible allure for coffee lovers seeking an authentic experience.

I was happy to discover this delightfully quaint coffeeshop when I got together with my foodie friends when Estate Coffeehouse hosted the Third Anniversary of Makati Foodies (as well as the First Anniversary of Mega Manila Foodies).

Cool drinks for a hot summer day

During this particularly hot and humid day, right smack in the middle of a sweltering summer in Manila, we were able to chill out for a bit as we sipped on Estate Coffehouse’ Iced Drinks.

What sets Estate Coffeehouse’s icy drinks apart is the use of premium ingredients and the attention to detail in their preparation. Each beverage is carefully crafted by skilled baristas who are knowledgeable about the nuances of coffee, chocolate and tea, ensuring that every sip is a delightful experience for the taste buds. The icy drinks at Estate Coffeehouse are not only a refreshing treat during warm weather but also a testament to the commitment to quality and craftsmanship that the coffeehouse embodies.

All-Day Brunch Temptations

Estate Coffeehouse not only offers a well-curated selection of delicious coffee and tea beverages but also boasts a tempting all-day brunch menu that will tantalize your taste buds. From scrumptious munchies and toasts to comforting soups, satisfying mains and appetizing pastas, Estate Coffeehouse has something to satisfy every craving.

With these made-to-order delicacies, you can count on a flavorsome repast at Estate Coffeehouse from morning to evening.

Delectable Desserts

Estate Coffeehouse in Ayala Triangle is not just a haven for coffee and brunch lovers, but also a sweet paradise for dessert enthusiasts. Indulge in their delectable and creatively crafted dessert offerings that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Bakeshop Creations

Estate Coffeehouse in Ayala Triangle takes dessert indulgence to new heights with their exquisite line of cakes, available in whole cakes or by the slice. These delectable cakes are not only perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings, but also for pairing with your favorite coffee or for celebrating special occasions. Each cake is meticulously crafted with the finest ingredients and a touch of culinary artistry, resulting in a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds.

Indulge in a slice or take home a whole cake to share with loved ones or to celebrate special moments. Estate Coffeehouse’s line of cakes is a true treat for dessert connoisseurs and a perfect addition to your coffeehouse experience.

A place to meet and connect

Estate Coffeehouse is not just a place to indulge your craving for coffee and munchies. It is also a community hub where people come together to connect, unwind, and enjoy moments of respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The coffeehouse serves as a gathering place for like-minded individuals who share a love for coffee, where conversations flow freely, and friendships are formed over a shared passion.

Gatherings of large groups may also be held at its second and third floor areas. Similar to our experience as my foodie friends and I celebrated our group’s milestones, these venues can accommodate sizable parties with adequate space for group activities, programs and games.

As the popularity of specialty coffee continues to rise, Estate Coffeehouse remains a well-kept secret in the Makati CBD, cherished by those who have discovered its hidden charms. It is a place where the simple act of sipping a cup of coffee becomes an experience, where every detail is thoughtfully curated to create a sensory journey for the senses or to encourage the meeting of like minds over good coffee and cuisine.

So, the next time you find yourself in the area, take a moment to step into Estate Coffeehouse, and let yourself be transported into a world of rich and aromatic delights that only a truly exceptional cup of coffee and creatively crafted food can provide.

Estate Coffeehouse is located at Paseo Center, Paseo De Roxas corner Sedeño Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City, open daily from 9am to 12 midnight. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 966 1922223.

Know more about Estate Coffeehouse’ menu and offers by following it on Facebook and Instagram.

Disclosure: Food items mentioned here were served at no charge as part of Estate Coffeehouse’s sponsorship of the event.

Create Your Own Meal at Cafe France, Greenhills

Hospital visits are seldom fun.

Even for consultations for minor medical complaints like my daughter #ExhibitA had, having to carve out time from her day (and mine, as I had to accompany her) can be quite a bit of a hassle.

With all the hospital protocols and procedures, one might get the feeling of being always at the mercy of outside forces.

So you can just imagine our relief when we espied a Cafe France branch hiding behind Cardinal Santos Medical Center’s steel parking lot.

Cafe France is a chain of cafes that offer coffee, food products, and breads, including bread crumbs, baguette breads, chocolate croissants, sultana rolls, butter croissants, pastries, savories, rice meals, sandwiches and beverages.

Its airy and well-appointed interiors provides a warm and welcoming haven that contrasts with the hospital’s sterile environment.

Not only did its presence assure us of something good to eat after our business with the hospital, it also offers us to take some control of our experience, thanks to its delightful offer.

Create Your Own Meal (Php349)

Our meal includes a fresh and healthy bowl of Salad which we can choose from among these choices: Fruit & Nuts, Grilled Chicken, Oriental Shrimp and Mixed Greens.

Then comes a filling half-serving of Pasta which we can select from these options: Seafood Marinara, Creamy Truffle Carbonara, Aglio Olio Shrimp, Italian Meatball and Lasagna Roll.

Another hunger buster is a half-portion Sandwich to be chosen among delectable options such as Egg Salad, Tuna Onion, Chunky Chicken, CF Premiere Clubhouse and Seafood Deluxe Clubhouse.

These items are served with the Soup of the Day and our Drink of choice between Iced Black Currant Tea and Freshly Brewed Coffee.

Since I’m quite a sweet-tooth, I opted to add a Dessert in the form of a cake slice or a piece of cream puff to my meal for Php95.

Well, we’ve enjoyed a very satisfying meal with these winning combinations!

Plus, those who are not into pastas and sandwiches may choose to partner their salad, soup and drink with a rice meal instead for the same price. They can select their meal among Roast Chicken, Beefy Mushroom, Hickory Chops, Chicken Mediterranean and Chicken Chimichurri.

Pastries

My daughter and I are both great lovers of French pastries so we simply couldn’t resist ordering some to-go.

Chocolate Croissant (Php85). Also known as pain au chocolate, this is a traditional French pastry made from layers of buttery and flaky croissant dough filled with premium chocolate.

Almond Croissant (Php115). A delightfully textured French pastry made with layers of croissant dough filled with creamy almond filling and topped with almond slices.

We seldom look forward to hospital visits but we’re sure that we’ll have a bright spot in our day the next time we go to Cardinal Santos Medical Center and dine again at Cafe France!

This Cafe France branch is located in the Steel Parking Area of Cardinal Santos Medical Center, 10 Wilson St. Brgy. Greenhills San Juan City, open Mondays to Thursdays from 7am to 8pm and Sundays from 7am to 3pm.

Other Metro Manila branches are located in the following areas:

Manila: UN Square Mall, Manila Doctors Hospital, Ongpin, Times Plaza Building
Makati: RCBC Building, Zeta II Building, Makati Medical Center
Quezon City: UERM Memorial Hospital, St. Luke’s Hospital, Philippine Heart Center, Fisher Mall Supermarket
Pasig: The Medical City
Mandaluyong: VRP Medical Center, SM Megamall
Muntinlupa: Asian Hospital
Paranaque: Park & Shop

3 reasons to go on a family food trip at DADS World Buffet, SM Megamall

It’s so nice to finally be able to eat out, right?

During the height of the pandemic, community quarantine restrictions specifically prohibit buffet-type setups due to the difficulty in maintaining physical distancing, especially as diners tend to congregate in various food stations to fill their plates.

Nowadays, however, all-you-can-eat buffets are making their comeback. One of these eateries is DADS World Buffet.

Having been around for over thirty years, DADS was among the first dining establishments to make buffet dining popular and accessible to more Filipinos.

Growing up in the 90s, I recall that most of my family’s celebrations such as birthdays, reunions and more were held at DADS. Its a great way to ensure that everyone can eat their fill of their preferred menu items, while keeping to a budget. DADS’ group and birthday promos also came in handy to this end.

Fast forward to today, I can say the DADS has not lost its appeal. In fact, I can cite three reasons why the family’s food trip should be held at DADS World Buffet.

1. It’s easily accessible.

Located in SM Megamall, DADS World Buffet is a short ride from most parts of the metro (not counting traffic, that is!). Also, anyone who’s organized a family party know that half the battle is getting the people to the venue. Since this restaurant is situated in one of the city’s most popular malls, getting lost along the way won’t be a problem.

2. It offers a world of culinary choices.

DADS World Buffet brings together celebrated dishes from all over the world, including local favorites. These include:

Philippines. A delectable curation of Kamayan’s roster of heritage dishes.
Asia. Includes dishes from Chine, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand
The Mediterranean. An epicure’s dream which includes dishes from Spain, Italy and Greece
The Americas. From hearty all-American viands from the United States to South American favorites from Mexico and Brazil.

Personally, the sheer magnitude of food choices available at DADS World Buffet have the added benefit of eliminating food envy. That’s the feeling of looking over to what other people are eating and wishing that you ordered the same. At DADS, you can easily load your plate with whatever catches your fancy.

3. Its promos will give you more bang for your buffet buck.

Walk-ins are charged P958/person but you can enjoy savings when you dine at DADS World Buffet by taking advantage of these offers:

Fully Vaxxed Reservation Promo: Php758/person Mondays to Thursdays | Php858 Fridays to Sundays and Holidays
Birthday Promo: birthday celebrants eats for free if accompanied by two adults at Php958/person
Group of 10 Promo: for every group of ten, one eats for free while the other nine are charged at Php958/person

Kids also enjoy discounted buffet rates at DADS:

0 to 3 feet: FREE
3 feet to 4 feetL Php330
4 feet to 4’6″: Php380

Senior citizens are also charged the discounted price of Php684.29/person.

Note: These promo prices require no leftovers. Leftovers are charged Php200.

So go ahead and take a journey of culinary discovery at DADS World Buffet!

This DADS World Buffet branch is located in the Fourth Floor Bridgeway, SM Megamall, Epifanio de los Santos Ave, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City, open Mondays to Thursdays from 11am to 3pm and 4pm to 8pm and Fridays to Sunday from 11am to 9pm. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 2 86363785, +63 2 86331758 or +63 917 8961757.

Another branch is located at 523 Merchant Building Padre Faura Street corner Adriatico Street, Ermita, Maynila. (Tel: 63 2 85281724 or +63 917 8971722).

DADS also collaborates with Saisaki, Sambo Kojin at Kamayan, featuring over eighty dishes at 15 West Avenue, Quezon City (Tel: +63 2 89212873 or +63 917 8988844).

To know more about its promos and offers, follow DADS World Buffet on Facebook and Instagram.

Kumbacheros, it’s time to celebrate as Ka Tunying’s turns 7!

Woohoo! Celebrations are definitely in order because #PanlasangMakabayanTurns7!

Ka Tunying’s, that casual tambayan and restoran in one, recently marked its seventh year of operations.

Named after its founder, veteran broadcaster, TV personality and radio commentator, Anthony Taberna, Ka Tunying’s has been through seven years’ worth of ups , downs and in-betweens of running a restaurant that caters to the #PanlasangMakabayan.

Before and during a global pandemic, Ka Tunying’s has rolled with the times and even introduced service and product innovations such as the launch of its website for online ordering, its frozen food packs and its retail stores in various cities nationwide.

With restaurants located in Quezon City and Tagaytay, Ka Tunying’s has been serving afforable, no-frills yet delicious Pinoy dishes such as Kaldereta, Arroz Caldo and Sisig to satisfy the Pinoy food cravings of urbanites, families, barkadas, travelers, balikbayans and more!

Over the years, its offerings have expanded to include the following:

Breads: Baguette (Php81), Banana Loaf (Php196), Cheesebread (Php161/8pcs | Php256/14pcs), Cheese Loaf (Php138), Regular Pan de Sal (Php81/10pcs), Cheese Pan de Sal (Php104/10pcs), Malunggay Pan de Sal (Php98/10pcs), Pesto Wheat Pan de Sal (Php98), Turmeric Pan de Sal (Php92/10pcs), Ube Cheese Pan de Sal (Php334/10pcs), Ensaymada (Php58/pc | Php345/6pcs), Cheesy Ube Ensaymada (Php173), Coffee Bun (Php144/6pcs | Php242/12pcs), Hopia (Php109), Mongo Loaf (Php104), Kamote Cheeseroll (Php58), Pan de Coco (Php108/8pcs), Raisin Bonnet (Php104/6pcs), Raisin Loaf (Php104), Tasty (Php81), Wheat Bread (Php69), Spanish Bread (Php104), Whole Wheat Cinnamon (Php173).

Pastas and Noodles: Tinapa Carbonara (Php295), Pancit ni Nanay Benny (Php320), Pancit Cantonio Taberna (Php295), Daing Pesto Pasta (Php325), Vegetable Lasagna (Php320)

Customizable Cakes: Simply choose your cake design, choose among various flavors (including carrot, ube macapuno, choco caramel and choco ganache) and sizes (6-, 8-, 10 and 12-inches), then indicate your dedication message.

So, kumbacheros, go ahead and celebrate with these tasty creations from Ka Tunying’s. Order online at KaTunyings.com, calling 09952376684 or 09171038673, or sending a message on Facebook, Instagram or Viber (Ka Tunying’s PH).

Ka Tunying’s outlets are located at:

88 Visayas Ave, Quezon City, 1128 Metro Manila
Unit D, Vista Point, Tagaytay, Cavite

Ka Tunying’s also delivers via GrabFood and FoodPanda.

Check out my previous posts about Ka Tunying’s:

Ka Tunying's Brownie Pre-Mix — BakeItTilYouMakeIt: Our Baking Mama Gift Set from Ka Tunying’s

Grupo Meal at Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Capitol Commons

One thing most of us have been looking forward to – after two years of lockdown – is the freedom to come together with friends to catch up on each other’s goings-on since the pandemic.

Thankfully, with the easing of quarantine restrictions, larger groups of people can now gather in restaurants for meetings and celebrations.

That’s what happened recently when my division’s head at work got all of my workmates and myself together and treated us to dinner.

And the venue for this heretofore unprecedented gathering among officemates who have all been working from home for the past two years is Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken in Capitol Commons.

Thanks to a relatively balmy late afternoon weather, we were able to opt for the larger tables outside which could be positioned to accommodate our large group as opposed to the booth tables inside the restaurant which can only accommodate six people per table.

The resulting al fresco dining arrangement allowed our group to all sit together and share a delicious meal while enjoying boisterous banters and teasing.

Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken is a fast-casual full-service restaurant known for its signature dish: the Peri-Peri Chicken.

Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken brings about this famous dish by marinating a whole chicken overnight in a special mixture of peri-peri (bird’s eye) chili, herbs and spices, then charcoal-grilling it to a gloriously golden hue.

This flavorful and juicy grilled chicken dish is best enjoyed with one or a combination of the restaurant’s eight signature sauces representing various gastronomic destinations, ranging from mildly sweet (Cajun Remoulade, Hoisin Sesame and Sweet Soy), medium spiciness (Garlic Brew, Spiced Vinegar and Mesquite BBQ) and hot (Chili Peppa and Harissa Exotica).

My workmates and I enjoyed this dish and more during our get-together:

Appetizers

Loaded Pica Sampler (Php320). Assorted pica-pica good for sharing consisting of Salted Egg Crispy Chicken Skin, Salted Egg Potato Chips and Peri-Peri Dynamite.

Peri Nacho Bake (Php395). Peri-Peri’s twist on the trendy sushi bake wherein crisp nachos are dipped into a savory cheesy baked dip.

Fish Sticks (Php310). Battered fish fingers deep-fried to a beautiful golden btown.

Mains

Chorizo Bolognese Platter (Php560). Spaghetti topped with tomato sauce and homemade chicken chorizo.

Carbonara Platter (Php560). Spaghetti tossed in creamy white mushroom alfredo sauce and bacon.

Chicken & Rib Grupo (Php2,414). One whole Peri-Peri Chicken and One Whole Slab BBQ Pork Ribs served with 6 java rice, 6 regular sides and drink.

Like I always say, good food and good company lead to great moments!

So why don’t you take advantage of the loosening quarantine restrictions and bring your friends and work pals to Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken for a great time!

This Peri-Peri branch is located inside Capitol Commons, Meralco Avenue corner Shaw Boulevard, Ortigas Center, Pasig City, open Sundays to Thursdays from 10am to 1am and Fridays to Saturdays from 10am to 2am.

Other outlets are located in the following areas:

Las Pinas: Evia Lifestyle Center
Makati: Ayala North Exchange, Greenbelt 3
Mandaluyong: SM Megamall
Manila: Robinsons Place Manila
Marikina: SM City Marikina
Muntinlupa: Alabang Town Center
Paranaque: Ayala Malls Manila Bay
Pasay: Resorts World Manila
Pasig: SM City East Ortigas, Ayala Malls Feliz, Capitol Commons, Robinsons Galleria
Quezon City: Eastwood Mall, Gateway Mall, Robinsons Magnolia, UP Town Center, Trinoma Mall, Banawe, Brittany Square
San Juan: Promenade Greenhills
Taguig: Uptown Parade BGC, Market! Market BGC, Venice Grand Mall

To know more about Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, browse through its website , or follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous posts on Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken:

Peri Peri Chicken, SM East — Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, SM City East Ortigas

Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Tomas Morato

Happy weekend at Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe

I always look forward to the weekend (who doesn’t?). Aside from giving me a welcome break from the daily grind, it’s also a chance to take things slow and spend time with my loved ones.

This particular Saturday, I decided to indulge my daughter #ExhibitA once again when she said she wanted some donuts from Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe.

And being the indulgent mom that I am (as well as a foodie who loves discovering new places to eat in), I decided to treat her to brunch there as well.

I was happy to discover that this new cafe located in Pioneer Centre is managed by the same group that runs Mad Mark’s Creamery, one of my favorite haunts for steak and ice cream.

Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe offers quite a different gustatory experience to the metro’s foodies: artisanal fluffy brioche donuts and specialty coffee created in “pursuit of the noblest art of making people happy.” Plus, with a well-curated selection of pasta dishes and sandwiches and a quaint, industrial yet neat and comfy decor, it’s all set to become a favorite brunch venue for the titas of the city (like me!).

On my brunch date with #ExhibitA, we tried out tasty selections from its menu such as:

Chick ‘n Pops (Php185). A mixture of crispy chicken skin and juicy bits of buttermilk fried chicken served with barbecue sauce and Molly’s Special Sauce.

Guanciale & Mushroom Pasta (Php245). Al dente linguini tossed in a cream sauce with bacon bits and shiitake mushrooms.

Yangnyeom Chicken Bun (Php215). Buttermilk fried chicken coated in homemade yangnyeom sauce encased with onions, tomatoes and lettuce in fluffy brioche buns.

Fluffy Donut Ala Mode (Php165). Our choice of fluffy donut (Roasted Brown Butter) and homemade ice cream (Madagascar Vanilla Bean).

We partnered these dishes with our orders of refreshing handcrafted beverage: Iced Spanish Latte (Php125), made with an espresso shot, homemade spice blend, homemade scratch caramel and steamed milk, and Iced Uji Matcha Latte (Php135), made with whisked matcha from Uji, Japan and steamed milk.

This delish brunch date gave me and #ExhibitA the opportunity to have some time to ourselves, a bit of very welcome mother-daughter bonding.

The great thing is that the happy time didn’t stop when we left the cafe; we actually brought it home with us in the form of a dozen fluffy brioche donuts!

We decided to surprise our boys – Hubby and my son #ExhibitB – as well as our yaya with some delicious donut creations for merienda or even breakfast the next morning.

Molly’s Donuts — Uji Matcha Morihan (Php75).

While these goodies are best consumed immediately, they can be refrigerated and then heated in the microwave right before eating for that “fresh from the oven” taste and feel.

So, get ready to give yourself and your loved ones some happiness with these treats!

Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe is located at Ground Floor, Pioneer Centre Supermarket, Pioneer Street corner United, Barangay Kapitolyo, Pasig City, open for dine-in, takeout or delivery daily from 10am to 8pm. For delivery and pre-order, visit mollys.pickup.ph.

Stunning sunset and skyline views at Antipolo’s Cafe Agusta

One of the usual appeals of Antipolo restaurants is the view they offer of the Metro Manila skyline.

For many of us denizens of the metro, the city is full of smoke, traffic and stress. From afar, especially after sundown, it’s awash with color, lights and wonder. For me, it’s the kind of sight that helps you find comfort and meaning for all the hard work that we do.

This is the reason I asked two of my former bosses for a sunset meetup at Cafe Agusta in Antipolo. Not only will this be the first time we would be together for the first time since the pandemic, this tete-a-tete will also celebrate my 15 years in the company which they have been so instrumental in shaping.

Amazing views for al fresco diners

Diners who prefer to stay indoors can lounge inside the cafe where its nice and cozy.

However, let’s face it: the real draw for this place has got to be its amazing view.

With its location high up the mountain and facing west, it provides the ideal vantage point with which to gaze at the metro’s cityscape as the sun sets.

The buildings’ white walls and cobblestone lined exterior floors are complemented by tables clothed in light blue to give off that Santorini vibe as diners enjoy the cool mountain breeze and the awesome sunset view.

For guests who are in the mood for some drinks, they can get their cocktails and mixes from Agusta bar right across the cafe and enjoy their drinks in a separate deck.

Comfort food that’s good to share

Cafe Agusta serves up filling comfort food that can be enjoyed as guests soak in the view. During our foray here, my friends and I shared:

Panini Chicken Crunch (Php260). Crispy chicken fillet loaded with cheese and the resto’s special sauce.

Creamy Pesto with Grilled Chicken (Php350). Al dente noodles tossed in flavorful pesto sauce with bits of juicy grilled chicken.

Pasta di Vongole (Php300). Al dente noodles tossed with Manila clams, garlic and parsley in olive oil and spiced up with pepper flakes.

Blueberry Cheesecake (Php185). Proving that there’s always room for dessert, we capped our meal with this sweet treat.

We washed our light meal down with Raspberry and Cuban Mint Agusta Coolers (Php140 each) and an Ice Blended Mocha (Php160).

Some kinks in the system

While Cafe Agusta’s awesome view may have been worth the trip, there are some areas for improvement which, when addressed, can make the entire dining experience here absolutely phenomenal.

Here are some of my observations:

The restaurant understandably does not accept reservations, and given its popularity, some walk-in diners should expect to wait before being allowed to enter the sunset viewing deck at around 5.30pm. A notice outside of the number of guests waiting in queue would be helpful for other diners to gauge their waiting time and decide if they want to stay so they can catch the sunset.
Stray cats more or less have free rein in the al fresco dining area. While they don’t jump on the tables, steal food nor attack diners, they do go underneath the tables and would sometimes slink against the legs of the guests. Aside from concerns for those with cat allergies, these stray animals roaming about in a dining environment can be considered a bit unsanitary.
Some orders, as well as the bill preparation, took quite some time. Some efficiencies in order taking and bill processing would go a long way towards improving the customer experience.

I found the overall experience at Cafe Agusta to be quite good, thanks to the delicious pasta dishes, the friendly wait staff (one even gamely took several pictures of me and my companions), and, of course, its much lauded view.

Hopefully, with a few slight adjustments in its operations, the restaurant will be known and appreciated for more than just its view.

Cafe Agusta is located along Grand Heights Road, Grand Heights Subdivision, Antipolo City, Rizal, open Mondays to Thursdays from 12 noon to 9pm and Fridays to Sundays from 11am to 11pm.

For more details about the restaurant, follow Cafe Agusta on Facebook and Instagram.

#QuarantineCookbook: Cheesy Baked Macaroni

My mom’s Cheesy Baked Macaroni has always been a family favorite.

She used to make it for the fam during special occasions such as birthday dinners or holiday feasts. We would sometimes bring it as our contribution to our clan’s potluck parties.

Later on, when I got married, Hubby would request a tray of Baked Macaroni from my mom for his birthday.

What makes this version different from other Baked Macaroni recipes is the flavor and aroma from the red bell peppers. Coupled with the melted cheese, it helps make a truly mouthwatering dish!

It took me a while to gather up the courage to cook this dish given the sheer weight of expectations surrounding it, but I’m sure glad I did!

I was able to piece together the recipe, thanks to my memories from years of helping my mom cook this, as well as a few phone calls to my mom, just to make sure I’m on the right track.

I’ve made this dish three times in as many weeks so far, a testament to how much my fam loves it.

Check it out!

Ingredients:

1/2 kg elbow macaroni, cooked according to package instructions
1/2 kg ground beef
2 tbsp cooking oil
5 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 onion, finely chopped
4 red bell peppers, finely chopped
1 beef bouillon cube
2 cups tomato sauce
2 dried bay leaves
4 tbsp butter
4 tbsp flour
3 cups milk, heated
220g cheese, finely grated
Salt and pepper to taste

Procedure:

To make the tomato meat sauce:

Saute garlic, onions and bell peppers in oil for up to five minutes until fragrant.
Add in the ground beef and cook until it is evenly browned, then stir in the beef cube.
Pour in the tomato sauce, stir and bring to a boil.
Season with salt and pepper.
Toss in the bay leaves, and allow to simmer for five minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.

To make the cheese sauce:

Melt the butter in a saucepan.
Stir in the flour and cook for about two minutes until a paste forms.
Pour in the milk and stir constantly until the flour paste is fully dissolved.
Add in the cheese while continuing to stir until the cheese has melted and blended into the mixture, then remove from heat.

To assemble and bake:

Pre-heat the oven to 375 deg F (190 deg C).
Divide the meat sauce in half.
Mix in the cooked macaroni to half of the meat mixture.
Coat the bottom of the baking pan with a thin layer of cheese sauce.
Add a layer of macaroni, then meat sauce and top with another layer cheese sauce. Repeat the three layers if the baking pan can accommodate.
Make sure the top is covered by a thick layer of cheese sauce.
Cover the baking pan with aluminum foil.
Bake with the foil cover for 15 minutes, and without the foil cover for another ten minutes.
Remove from the oven and serve.