product launch – Jellybeans in the City

Say hello to the New McCafe Iced Coffee

If your day is not complete without a cup (or two… or more!) of coffee, then you’re definitely not alone.

Coffee consumption in the country has been steadily growing, with Pinoys shifting from being moderate coffee drinkers to heavy consumers of the beverage, according to a recent Qantar World Panel study. In fact, eight of ten Filipinos drink 2.5 cups of coffee per day.

Personally, I couldn’t start my day without my cuppa, and I often find myself reaching for it time and again throughout the day to perk me up for my daily activities, or in the case of iced coffee, get me refreshed during hot weather. Plus, when I take my coffee with my family members at home, or with my coworkers in the office, my coffee break gets elevated into a bonding moment which is always a welcome development in my book.

Speaking of iced coffee, did you know that McDonald’s was the first fast-food restaurant to make this drink available to the Philippine market when it launched its McCafe brand in 2012? Fast forward to today, in line with its drive to improve its food and beverage offerings to serve its markets better, McCafe is launching a new formulation for its iced coffee characterized by a “bolder brew and “creamier blend.”

Together with my fellow foodies and other KOLs, I attended the launch of McCafe’s newest iced coffee variants that are sure to make McCafe the go-to coffee anytime, anywhere. There, we participated in various games and activities that drew us deeper into our coffee advanture.

To take us further into our coffee experience, we also went through a mindful sensory coffee tasting activity which activated all our senses as we enjoyed our coffee to fully evaluate its various qualities. (You might want to try doing these too when enjoying your own beverage to heighten your appreciation for the drink.)

Sense of Feel. Wrap your hands around the cup and feel its temperature. Your iced coffee should, of course, be cold.
Sense of Smell. Lift the lid of the coffee cup and breathe in its rich aroma. You should smell the vibrant roast.
Sense of Sight. Peer into your cup and check out the rich and dark color of black coffee or the creamy tan of the milkier variants of iced coffee.
Sense of Hearing and Taste. As you sip, listen to the sound the coffee makes and how it feels as it enters your mouth. Take note of the flavors that immediately stand out and which ones become apparent over time.

Equipped with fresh ways to appreciate the drink, we were all introduced to five new and better McCafe Iced Coffee variants which all characterized by a bolder brew and creamier blend!

McCafe Iced Coffee Original. Refreshing creamy brown iced coffee with a balanced blend of sweetness and creaminess.
McCafe Iced Coffee Vanilla. The original coffee flavored with vanilla syrup resulting in a balanced blend of creamy milk and sweet vanilla.
McCafe Iced Coffee Chocolate. Bold black iced coffee with a balanced blend of creamy milk and rich chocolate syrup.
McCafe Iced Coffee Black. Rich and bold unsweetened iced coffee.
McCafe Iced Coffee Float. Black iced coffee topped with creamy soft-serve ice cream and rich chocolate syrup.

Aside from these new and improved flavors, the McCafe Iced Coffee also went through a packaging glow-up thanks to its bright yellow cups (available in medium and large sizes) that embody the energy and excitement that infuses McCafe’s Iced Coffee.

Enjoy these new and better McCafe Iced Coffee variants, starting at Php50, at any of McDonald’s 760+ stores nationwide beginning August 19, 2024. Plus, take advantage of these fun promos in August and September:

Hello Yellow Day. Strut into any McDonald’s branch wearing a yellow top on August 19 from 2pm to 5pm and enjoy your cup of McCafe Iced Coffee Original for just Php25 (from Php55). Be sure to download the McDonald’s App and register your account beforehand. More details here.
Drive-Thru and get a McCafe Iced Coffee Original for only Php35. Available only for Drive-Thru VIP McDonald’s App registered users on August 20.
Get your Iced Coffee Black at Php40 (from Php50) and Iced Coffee Original at Php45 (from Php55). Available from August 26 to September 26.

For more details about its promos and offers, visit the McDonald’s website or follow it on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Yellow Cab introduces Half Moon Pizzas in “Best Ever Pizza Party”

One balmy Saturday afternoon, I joined fellow foodies and pizza enthusiasts from all corners of Manila in Bonifacio Global City for pizza and fun. There, Yellow Cab Pizza Co. hosted the “Best Ever Pizza Party,” a vibrant celebration that unveiled their latest offering: Half Moon Pizzas.

Check out the fun goings-on at this happy shindig!

Here’s a Slice of History

Did you know that pizza came from Naples, Italy, and centuries later became a global favorite? Originating as a simple meal for working-class Neapolitans, pizza has evolved into a symbol of communal dining and culinary diversity.

This phenomenon was celebrated at the “Best Ever Pizza Party.” Yellow Cab recognizes pizza’s power to bring people together while acknowledging individual preferences, leading to the creation of Half Moon Pizzas.

Half Moon Pizzas: Solo Serving big on freshness and flavor

The absolute star of the evening was the Half Moon Pizzas, a novel concept offering the perfect solution for solo diners. Available in Pepperoni and Hawaiian flavors, each box contains three slices, giving the pizza lover a convenient, single-serving option without compromising on flavor. Priced at just P159, these pizzas are prepared individually to guarantee freshness and feature a unique crust at the edges. Customers can personalize their meal with add-ons like soda, pasta, or chicken for a complete dining experience.

Elevating the Pizza Experience

Yellow Cab also introduced improved recipes for their classic pizzas, now cheesier, meatier, and tastier than ever. Made with freshly made dough, premium ingredients, and real mozzarella cheese, these pizzas set a new standard for quality.

We were treated to an array of side activities, including a photobooth station and the “Half Moon Serve” and “Topping Throw,” with the chance to win boxes of Yellow Cab’s Best Ever Pizzas in a raffle.

I was not about to pass up the chance to treat my gang to a pizza party now, right?

A Feast for the Senses

The “Best Ever Pizza Party” wasn’t just about food—it was a feast for the senses. Renowned artists Clara Benin, Lola Amour, and DJ Margachi provided the soundtrack for the evening, captivating the audience with their soulful melodies and dance-inducing beats. Multimedia artist Raco Ruiz and lifestyle brand Syndrome Supply added visual flair to the event with their collaborations.

Setting the Stage for Future Celebrations

Yellow Cab’s “Best Ever Pizza Party” was made possible in partnership with Mountain Dew and Pepsi, ensuring guests had refreshing drinks to accompany their pizza feast. The success of the event has set the stage for future celebrations, with more “Best Ever Pizza Parties.” So watch out for these happenin’ get-togethers to be announced on Yellow Cab Pizza Co.’s social media pages:

As the event drew to a close, the spirit of camaraderie and shared gastronomic delight lingered in the air, reminding us that pizza truly knows no bounds when it comes to bringing people together. With Half Moon Pizzas leading the way, Yellow Cab Pizza Co. continues to innovate and delight pizza lovers across Manila and beyond.

#ShareTheSpice with Chowking’s new fiery delight: Introducing the Spicy Chao Fan

Indulging in delicious and affordable Chinese cuisine has always been a delightful experience for Pinoy foodies. In its quest to tantalize taste buds and ignite culinary adventures, Chowking, the leading chain of Chinese quick-service restaurants specializing in Filipino-Chinese cuisine, has introduced its newest masterpiece: the Spicy Chao Fan, ready to take you on a spicy flavor journey that will leave you craving for more.

A Celebration of Spice: The Grand Launch

Chowking recently held an exhilarating product launch event for its Spicy Chao Fan at the prestigious Atrium of Enderun Colleges, nestled in the vibrant McKinley Hill of Taguig City. The air was charged with anticipation as Chowking’s esteemed celebrity ambassador, the charming Kim Chiu, graced the occasion. With her infectious energy and love for Chinese cuisine, Kim Chiu took center stage to present the fiery sensation to an enthusiastic audience of media and fans. The event, aptly billed #ShareTheSpice, marked the beginning of an unforgettable adventure in flavor.

Chowking: A Legacy of Flavorful Fusion

Chowking has become a household name, combining the best of Filipino and Chinese flavors into delectable creations. With over 600 branches across the Philippines and a presence in the United States, Canada, and Saudi Arabia, Chowking has established itself as a leader in the highly competitive fast-food industry. Renowned for its affordability and an extensive menu featuring Chinese favorites, such as Beef Wonton Noodles, Lauriat, and Siopao, Chowking has captured the hearts and palates of millions.

Introducing the Spicy Chao Fan: A Fiery Twist to a Classic Delight

Prepare to ignite your taste buds with the Spicy Chao Fan, Chowking’s newest sensation that takes the beloved stir-fried rice dish to new heights of spiciness. Crafted with precision, this flavorful delight combines day-old rice, a medley of crisp vegetables including carrots, peas, and onions, and meat for that signature Wok-Sarap flavor. Stir-fried to perfection in a wok and seasoned with a tantalizing blend of sauces and seasonings, and just the right amount of salt and pepper, each bite delivers a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.

“When we were creating the Spicy Chao Fan, we deliberately wanted it to have the right level of spice that everyone can enjoy. It’s not soicy for spicy’s sake, it has just the right Spicy Wok-Sarap kick that will leave you wanting more,” said Jonathan de Quitoz, Chowking Brand Director for Chao Fan and Brand Operations.

Kim Chiu: The Perfect Spicy Companion

In the world of showbiz, one name stands out as the perfect embodiment of charisma and relatability: Kim Chiu. Known for her captivating performances in television shows and movies, Kim Chiu has captured the hearts of Filipinos with her infectious energy and genuine love for food. As Chowking’s beloved celebrity ambassador, Kim Chiu’s vibrant personality, spicy charm and way of reinventing herself make her the perfect match for the Spicy Chao Fan. Her presence adds an extra layer of excitement and authenticity to Chowking’s newest creation.

Savor the Spice, Anytime, Anywhere

Craving a fiery feast? Whether you prefer the cozy ambiance of dine-in, the convenience of take-out, the on-the-go experience of drive-thru or the sheer ease of ordering online or via the Chowking App, Chowking has got you covered. The Spicy Chao Fan is available at a Chowking branch near you, ready to be savored at your convenience. Gather your friends, bring your appetite, and embark on a taste adventure that will leave you craving for more.

#ShareTheSpice Challenge

During the event, Kim Chiu also introduced the #ShareTheSpice Challenge. For a chance to win gift certificates and special prizes from Chowking, all you have to do are:

Try the Spicy Chao Fan.
Post about it on any social media platform with the hashtag #ShareTheSpice and #SpicyChaoFan.
Tag two of your friends who you want to share the spice with.

Chowking’s Commitment to Excellence

Beyond delivering mouthwatering flavors, Chowking takes pride in its commitment to customer service, quality, and sustainability. Recognized for its dedication to excellence, Chowking ensures that every dining experience is a memorable one. From the warm smiles of their staff to the cleanliness of their establishments, Chowking goes the extra mile to create an atmosphere that resonates with their customers.

Ignite Your Senses with Chowking’s Spicy Chao Fan

Get ready to ignite your taste buds and embark on a thrilling culinary journey with Chowking’s Spicy Chao Fan. This fiery twist on a classic stir-fried rice dish combines affordability, flavor, and an unmistakable touch of spice. From the grand launch featuring the vibrant Kim Chiu to the legacy of excellence behind Chowking, every element comes together to create an unforgettable experience. So, head to your nearest Chowking branch, and let the Spicy Chao Fan take you on a mouthwatering adventure you won’t soon forget.

To know more about its menu and offers, follow Chowking on Facebook and Instagram.

Jodi Sta. Maria and son join Chowking as ambassadors for the new and improved Chicken Lauriat

Got appetite to spare? A lauriat may just be the thing.

A lauriat typically consists of several Chinese dishes served together in a large, communal table, often enjoyed in large groups. The term originated from the Chinese word “lao diat,” which means “celebration of life.” This Chinese banquet-style meal is a favorite among Filipinos because it is often associated with special occasions and celebrations, such as birthdays and weddings. It is a shared dining experience that brings families and friends together over a delicious and satisfying meal.

But for people with monster-sized cravings fit for a lauriat, Chowking has something for you.

An elevated Chinese Sarap Chicken meal

Chowking, the number 1 Chinese fast-food chain in the country, recently introduced its Mas Pinasarap na Chowking Chinese-Style Chicken Lauriat. While this menu item still features six of the chain’s bestsellers, namely the Chinese-style Fried Chicken, Egg Fried Rice, Buchi, Siomai, Chicharap, and Pancit Canton, significant improvements have been done to the Chinese Style Fried Chicken, now with a more sarap-saya flavor thanks to a special blend of spices and seasonings, and the Pancit Canton which is now made with fresh egg noodles.

“The Chowking Lauriat is a true fan favorite, loved by Filipinos across the country. As delicious as it is, we believe that there’s always room for improvement,” said Fran Leveriza-Maralit, Chowking Brand Director. “Whether you’re dining in or eating at home, on your own or sharing with loved ones, our mas Pinasarap na Chinese-Style Fried Chicken Lauriat is part of our commitment to creating Chinese-sarap experiences with each meal we serve.”

New mother-and-son endorsers join the fold

Adding to the excitement is Chowking’s new celebrity ambassadors, Jodi Sta. Maria, and her son, Thirdy Lacson. The award-winning actress shares her love for Chowking and her favorite dishes, which include the Chinese-Style Chicken Lauriat. Jodi, who is known for her work in the entertainment industry including well-loved movies and teleseryes that shaped Pinoy pop culture, is a perfect fit for Chowking’s brand as they continue to elevate their offerings.

“Ako po ay napakasaya at sobrang nae-excite na maging parte ng Chowking family,” the actress said. “I’m just so proud today to unveil my first campaign with Chowking, syempre po sa paborito kong mas pinasarap na Chowking Lauriat.”

About Chowking

The Chowking Food Corporation is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Jollibee Foods Corporation. It combines two distinct restaurant personalities – the traditional Chinese restaurant and the western-style fastfood restaurant – to become a strong and recognizable leader in the Philippines’ highly competitive fastfood industry.

To know more about its menu and offers, follow Chowking on Facebook and Instagram.