#BakaNaman it’s time for Andok’s Litson Baka

I’m one of those folks who make a beeline for the carving station at hotel buffets. My quest was usually centered on roast beef being served – a few slivers at a time – by a server who I sometimes think secretly judges me for coming for seconds.

While I can overcome my self-consciousness for my second (or third) plate of roast beef from the carving station, what I couldn’t overcome is the dearth of buffet options during the pandemic.

This is why I was excited last year when Andok’s launched its Litson Baka.

Andok’s Litson Baka
Andok’s Litson Baka

Andok’s has been around since the 1980s, serving up Pinoy-style roasted chicken – litson manok – in a way that’s easily accessible to everyone, being so affordable and present in practically every street corner.

Which is why I was more than a little miffed when its litson baka was made available only in a limited number of stores (and none near my home!) during its initial launch.

I had to get Hubby to drive some distance just to get our hands on a box (or two!) for my daughter #ExhibitA’s birthday lunch a few months ago.

Andok’s Litson Baka
Andok’s Litson Baka

Well, no more, because Andok’s litson baka is now more widely available. And at Php429 per box, quite affordable, too! (In my case, #BakaNaman became #BakaNaTalaga!)

Whenever I get a craving for this kind of roast beef, or I need a quick, fuss-free and delicious contribution to a family potluck, all I have to do is grab my phone and open the Grab app to order from the nearest branch.

Andok’s Litson Baka
Andok’s Litson Baka

Within a few minutes, the fam and I will be enjoying tender and flavorful slices of Pinoy-style roast beef. (Definitely with lots and lots of rice!)

I keep meaning to make roast beef sandwiches from leftovers. However, despite always ordering two boxes at a time, I never seem to get any of this delicious litson baka left over once it has been laid out on our dinner table.

Andok’s Litson Baka
Andok’s Litson Baka

Oh, well. That’s what future orders are for.

And at least I won’t have to worry about any server judging me as I go for my second or third serving.

#BakaNaman it’s time to get your own taste of Andok’s litson baka. Drop by your nearest Andok’s outlet or order for delivery via Grabfood.

To know more about Andok’s products and promos, follow it on Facebook or Instagram.

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.

Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe

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!).

Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe

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.

Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe

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

Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe

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

Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe

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

Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe

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.

Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe

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!

Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe

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 & Brunch Cafe
Roasted Brown Butter (Php65).
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Walnut Crunch (Php75).
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Peanut Butter Cup (Php65).
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Bacon Bomb (Php75).
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Bean-to-Bar Dark Chocolate (Php65).
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Dark Chocolate & Peanut Butter (Php75).
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Nutty Chocolate (Php65).
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Super Peanut Butter Cup (Php75).
Molly’s Donuts
Uji Matcha Morihan (Php75).
Molly’s Donuts

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.

Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe
Molly’s Donuts & Brunch Cafe

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.

PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie, SM Mega Fashion Hall

I had to accompany my daughter #ExhibitA as she got her booster shot last Sunday, and I thought “Why not make an outing of it?”

Given my work schedule and her classes, we hardly get any opportunity for some mother-daughter bonding.

So we took the opportunity to have brunch at PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie at SM Mega Fashion Hall.

PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie
PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie
PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie
PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie

This cafe is a spot of understated luxury inside a busy mall. Here, handmade bread are freshly baked throughout the day as has been done in various PAUL bakeries for over 120 years.

PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie
PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie

The cafe also offers menu items that combines the pleasures of eating with well-being. These dishes are characterized by authenticity, the use of natural ingredients and being attentive to the need for a balanced diet. These include:

Croque Salmon (Php420). Smoked salmon, cream and ementhal cheese enveloped in soft butter-toasted pain de mie and served with crisp greens drizzled with a tangy-sweet vinaigrette.

PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie
PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie

Pesto & Cream Pasta (Php295). Al dente fusili tossed in basil pesto cream sauce and garnished with sundried tomatoes, parmesan cheese and bread stick.

PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie
PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie

Creme Brulee (Php175). Rich and creamy vanilla flavored custard topped with caramelized sugar.

PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie
PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie

Drinks. Freshly steeped Earl Grey Tea (Php115) and Salted Caramel Flavored Latte (Php215).

PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie
PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie

A lovely meal and a relaxing atmosphere made for an enjoyable time!

PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie
PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie

This PAUL Boulangerie et Pattiserie branch is located at Ground Floor Al Fresco 1, Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, Ortigas, Mandaluyong City. For inquiries, call +63 995 2525279.

To know more about its products and offers, visit PAUL’s website or follow it on Facebook or Instagram.

Middle Eastern classics at OK Bob

If you’re a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine, here’s something that’s sure to catch your fancy.

OK Bob, the newest stall in The Grid Food Market, recently launched new menu items crafted by Chefs Decker Gokioco and Jorge Mendez, giving the metro’s foodies more chances to sate their cravings for kebabs, curries and more.

OK Bob
OK Bob
OK Bob
OK Bob

Middle Eastern food is comprised of a variety of cuisines from a long list of countries, it is generally characterized by the frequent use fragrant spices, olive oil, nuts and creamy elements.

The resulting flavors and textures from this culinary tradition come into play with OK Bob’s newest dishes.

Crab Biryani (Php2,500).

Indulge yourself with the flavors of the sea and spices with OK Bob’s Crab Biryani. Fresh 500g crab is braised in curry-spiced yogurt and served on a bed of spiced Basmati rice with fried onion, cilantro, papadum and coriander cream.

OK Bob
OK Bob
OK Bob
OK Bob

OK Bob Plate Meat Combo (Php450).

Grilled chicken and beef served on a bed of spiced Basmati rice accompanied by fresh tomatoes, onions, lettuce, buttered Naan bread with garlic sauce and Tikka spiced hot sauce.

OK Bob
OK Bob
OK Bob
OK Bob

Beef Kabab Roll (Php320).

Grilled marinated ground beef skewer on top of romaine lettuce and cilantro encased in a bread roll and served with Persian-spiced fries, cucumber raita and sumac salad.

OK Bob
OK Bob
OK Bob
OK Bob

Don’t miss this chance to expand your food horizons with these exciting dishes from OK Bob!

OK Bob
OK Bob
OK Bob
OK Bob

OK Bob is open for pickup and delivery at thegridfoodmarket.com. It is also available for dine-in at Stall 2 at The Grid Food Market, Powerplant Mall, Rockwell Drive, Rockwell Center, Makati. It also delivers via GrabFood, FoodPanda and Pick-A-Roo.

For more details on its menu items and offers, follow OK Bob on Facebook and Instagram.

The Grid Food Market is the resident food hall of Powerplant Mall which offers a wide range of flavors to cater to various cravings.

Check out my previous posts on other cuisines available at The Grid Food Market:

Disclosure: Product samples were provided to facilitate this feature.

Marites’ Day Out at Toby’s Estate and Pinks, BGC

Everyday is a good day for teams of Marites to come together and exchange some of those proverbial “tea.”

If the encounter happens in a posh area with lots of green spaces such as in the eateries in Bonifacio Global City, then so much the better. (Because Maritesses love them some nature!)

BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s
BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s
BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s
BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s

How do I know this?

Because I’m a Marites myself, and I recently swarmed together with my fellow Maritesses for some “tea” and company at BGC.

Toby’s Estate

Our first stop was in Toby’s Estate, home of beautiful coffee sustainably sourced from farmers around the globe. (Because we Maritesses care about sustainability!)

Here, we exchanged chikas over a filling and energizing brunch, which included:

BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s
BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s

Mocha (Php190). A hot latte made with a splash of rich chocolate syrup.

BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s
BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s

Hot Chocolate (Php170). A rich and comforting cocoa drink.

BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s
BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s

Grilled Cheese Sandwich (Php295). Oodles of melty cheese in crisp butter-toasted bread served with house-made potato chips and a tangy tomato compote.

BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s
BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s

Eggs Benedict (Php385). My breakfast of choice composed of sliced ham topped with poached eggs on over toasted English muffins, all drenched with house-made Hollandaise sauce.

BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s
BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s

This tita-ish brunch powered us for a day of lively conversations.

However, the fun didn’t stop here because we hopped over right next door to…

Pink’s Hotdogs and Burgers

At this local offshoot of Hollywood famous hotdog franchise, our group of Maritesses continued on our merry exchanges.

We didn’t see any Tinseltown celebrities but we did bond over some yummy snackables:

BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s
BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s

Milkshakes (Php322). Nothing feels like a childhood indulgence quite look a tall glass of milkshakes.

BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s
Chocolate Milkshake
BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s
Strawberry Milkshake

Hand-cut French Fries (Php190). Freshly deep-fried sticks of potatoes served with ketchup. Great for munching!

BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s
BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s

Sausage Sampler (Php620). Sausages served with pickles, mustard, ketchup and mayonnaise.

BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s
BGC - Toby’s Estate and Pink’s

With such munchable treats, who would want this Maritess’ Day Out to end?

These branches of Toby’s Estate and Pink’s Hot Dogs are located at the the High Street Park, Shangri-la at the Fort, 30th Street corner 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

What’s your bet for your chika session snackables with your Maritess friends?

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.

Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta

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.

Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta

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.

Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta

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.

Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta

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.

Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta

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.

Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta

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

Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta

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

Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta

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

Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta

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

Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta

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.

Cafe Agusta
Cafe Agusta

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.

A French cafe experience at PAUL le cafe

France has a delicious history with coffee dating back to 17th century when cafes started opening up, offering not just coffee but also a feeling of community. Cafes encouraged the practice of slowing down, lingering and connecting with one’s neighbors and peers; they became focal points for conversation, artistic expression, and, at some point, even revolutionary sentiments.

With the opening of its first Philippine store in Greenbelt 5 in Makati, PAUL le cafe brings the French cafe experience center stage, much to the delight of coffee lovers in the metro.

PAUL le cafe
PAUL le cafe

PAUL le cafe also incorporates classic coffee colors as well as black, the emblematic hue of the original family-owned PAUL bakeries in France, and terra-cotta red, the color of coffee cherries.

Its clean and modern look was developed with the help of interior and set designer Emilie Bonaventure. Its spectacular lighting, gleaming coffee machine and welcoming colors are accented by artfully placed photographs, all set against the PAUL trademark black and white flooring.

PAUL le cafe
PAUL le cafe
PAUL le cafe
PAUL le cafe

In this stylish setting, coffee lovers can enjoy their favorite beverage expertly crafted by PAUL’s baristas, using 100% Arabica coffee sourced from sustainable Rain Forest Alliance producers.

The store also offers and expanded menu of hot coffee drinks that include classics such as espresso, latte and Americano, to gourmet recipes such as flat white, cappuccino, cafe Viennois and mochas, even vegan options made with almond or oat milk.

PAUL le cafe
PAUL le cafe
PAUL le cafe
PAUL le cafe

To cool down on a hot day (which we have a lot of in this country), customers can also opt for iced versions of their coffee favorites.

The store also offers non-coffee beverages such as hot and iced teas, freshly squeezed juices and smoothies.

PAUL le cafe
PAUL le cafe

Customers can also get a taste of the PAUL macaron frappe – a concoction made of milk, cream and a French macaron – blended together with ice, resulting to a sweet and brightly colored drink.

These drinks are best enjoyed with something delicious to nibble on. Luckily, savory lunch items such as freshly prepared sandwiches and salads, quiches and pizzas are on offer.

PAUL le cafe
PAUL le cafe
PAUL le cafe
PAUL le cafe

However, the highlight for a sweet tooth like me has got to be the pattiserie – a collection of French pastries and cakes that appeal to the eyes and tastebuds of every dessert lover.

PAUL le cafe
PAUL le cafe
PAUL le cafe
PAUL le cafe

Among the macarons, fruit tartlets, Napoleons, and more on display, all manner of sweet cravings can be sated.

At PAUL le cafe, coffee lovers can bask in the elegantly relaxed atmosphere of a French cafe while enjoying premium drinks and high quality pastries.

It is a place to relax, unwind and take a precious moment, whether to catch up with friends or enjoy one’s solitude in comfort.

PAUL le cafe
PAUL le cafe

Drop by PAUL le cafe at Ground Floor, Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati City and say “Bonjour” to a posh yet relaxing coffee shop a la francaise experience.

For more details on its offers, follow PAUL Philippines on Facebook and Instagram.

Disclosure: I attended the Grand Opening of this restaurant where food and drink were served for honest feedback.

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf brings childhood indulgence with its Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake

What is it about chocolate chip cookie dough that we can’t just stop ourselves from licking the spoon when our mom whips up a batch of cookies?

Who would have thought that the combination of flour, sugar, butter, vanilla and chocolate would be irresistible, even if the mixture has not yet achieved its final form?

CBTL Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake
CBTL Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake

Just the scent of a fresh batch of chocolate chip cookie dough is enough to get us salivating, right? What more if we actually get to eat it by the spoonful?

Well, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf heard our hearts’ (or tummies’) cry and came up with Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake!

CBTL Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake
CBTL Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (sometimes affectionately referred to as CBTL) hails all the way from Southern California, where founder Herb Hyman started importing and roasting coffee back in 1963.

Remember those ice-blended drinks we love so much? They actually came about in 1987 when a store manager had a burst of inspiration and mixed coffee, chocolate powder and milk together with ice at CBTL’s Westwood, California store.

Clearly, CBTL is no stranger to bringing new tasty items for its customers to enjoy. Its Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake is no exception.

CBTL Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake
CBTL Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake

It is a melt-in-your mouth wonder from its base of crushed chocolate cookie crumbs right under a thick layer of rich vanilla cheesecake with bits of chocolate chip cookie dough and chocolate syrup drizzled on top.

CBTL Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake
CBTL Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake
CBTL Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake
CBTL Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake

What would make this dessert even better? Pairing it with some of CBTL’s signature drinks such as Ice-Blended Caramel and Ice-Blended Vanilla!

CBTL Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake
CBTL Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake
CBTL Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake
CBTL Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake

So when you’ve got that craving for good ‘ole cookie dough that brings back memories of childhood, you know that you can always grab a bite and some drinks to go with it at CBTL!

CBTL Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake
CBTL Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake

CBTL outlets are located at:

  • Las Pinas: Evia Lifestyle Center, Sipag Center, SM Southmall and Starmall
  • Makati: Ayala North Exchange, Ayala Triangle Garden, BDO Tower, Century City Mall, Circuit Lane, Convergys, Four Seasons Salcedo, Glorietta 2, Greenbelt 5, iAcademy, Philamlife Tower, Phinma, Power Plant Rockwell, Rada Street, SM Jazz, Enterprise Tower, The Residences
  • Manila: Adriatico, Avenue of the Arts, De La Salle University, Laperal Apartments, Midtown Padre Faura, One Archers Place, Robinsons Place Ermita, SM Grand Central, UST Bellagio Residences
  • Muntinlupa: Alabang Town Center, Asian Hospital, Ayal Malls Southpark, Festival Malls Filinvest
  • Paranaque: Ayala Malls Manila Bay
  • Pasay: Double Dragon, NAIA 3, SM MAAX, SM Mall of Asia, SMX Convention Center Manila, Solaire Casino & Resort, Two E-Com, W Mall
  • Pasig: Ayala Malls Feliz, Ayala Malls The 30th, Citadines Millennium Ortigas, Eastwood Mall, Estancia Capitol Commons, Ortigas Park, Rockwell Business Center, Shangri-la Plaza, SM City East Ortigas, SM Megamall, Victor R Potenciano Hospital
  • Quezon City: Ayala Malls Cloverleaf, Banawe Lifestyle Center, Batasan Pambansa, Eton Centris, Fairview Terraces Mall, Gateway Cinema, Gateway Mall, Katipunan, M Place, Mezza Residences, Robinson’s Galleria, Robinson’s Magnolia, SM Fairview Expansion Parkway, SM North EDSA, Tomas Morato, Trinoma Mall, UP Town Center, Vertis North
  • San Juan: Promenade Greenhills
  • Taguig: Bonifacio High Street, Bonifacio Stopover, Burgos Circle, Central Square Cinema, Every Nation Building, Newport, Resorts World, One Park Drive, Shell C5 Logcom, SM Aura, Starmall Taguig, Uptown Mall, Venice Piazza McKinley Hill

Photo Credits: Chocolate chip cookie flatlay by Georgie Devlin on Pexels and Chocolate chip cookie dough by Pam Menegakis on Unsplash

Enjoy a feast fit for an emperor at Hahn Restaurant

Have you ever found yourself somewhat distracted from the storyline of your newest binge-able Korean drama because you can’t take your eyes off the sumptuous dishes that your oppas and unnies are feasting on?

If you’ve been salivating over the colorful and appetizing food that make appearances in your favorite K-dramas, then Ayala Malls Manila Bay’s Korean Town should be right up your alley.

Home of authentic Korean specialties

Located in this hub is Hahn Restaurant, a stalwart when it comes to authentic Korean cuisine.

Inside its elegant interiors, you can sit down and dine in comfort as you experience Korea and its culture through food with your special someone, or with your family and friends.

Hahn Restaurant
Interiors
Hahn Restaurant
Interiors

You may also entertain a large group in one of the VIP Rooms (both can be combined into one even larger room for bigger parties).

Hahn Restaurant
VIP Room
Hahn Restaurant
VIP Room

You may also opt to enjoy your Korean food al fresco by stepping out to the veranda.

Hahn Restaurant
Bar
Hahn Restaurant
Al fresco dining

True to its positioning as the home of authentic Korean cusine, its offerings are prepared using traditional cooking methods such as fermenting, boiling, blanching, seasoning, and pickling. These are served with bap (cooked rice), kuk (dishes with broth), kimchi (traditional Korean sode dish made of fermented and seasoned vegetables) and banchan (side dishes), to be consumed at the same time, as the layering of flavors and textures is a hallmark of Korean dining.

A feast fit for an emperor

If you’re all set to expand your gastronomic horizons in Korean cuisine, Hahn Restaurant’s Emperor’s Feast will bring you the classic Korean faves, all in one set, meticulously prepared by the resto’s Chef Isagani according traditional Korean methods.

Hahn Restaurant
Emperor’s Feast
Hahn Restaurant
Emperor’s Feast
Hahn Restaurant
Emperor’s Feast
Hahn Restaurant
Store supervisor Jong Hoon Lee and Chef Isagani

With this exciting meal set, you and a friend can enjoy a filling array classic Korean flavors for just Php980, which includes:

Kimchi-Jjigae. The central dish of the Emperor’s Feast, this hearty stew made with kimchi, pork belly and gochujang brings you spicy, tangy and umami flavors with each spoonful.

Hahn Restaurant
Kimchi-Jjigae
Hahn Restaurant
Kimchi-Jjigae

Hahn Gimbap. To cool your palate, you can bite into a few slices of cooked rice, crisp vegetables and meats rolled in dried seaweed sheets.

Hahn Restaurant
Hahn Gimbap
Hahn Restaurant
Hahn Gimbap

Bibimbap. For a truly satisfying meal for you and your companion, two servings of Hahn Restaurant’s best-seller – the Bibimbap, made with cooked rice topped with sauteed vegetables, kimchi, sliced meat and fried egg – will be served.

Hahn Restaurant
Hahn Restaurant

Banchan. Bite into these delicious side dishes to complement your meal.

Hahn Restaurant
Banchan
Hahn Restaurant
Banchan

To complete the set, you and your friend can choose two sodas from the restaurant’s beverage menu.

Hahn Restaurant
Emperor’s Feast
Hahn Restaurant
Emperor’s Feast
Hahn Restaurant
Emperor’s Feast
Hahn Restaurant
Emperor’s Feast

The Emperor’s Feast is truly a feast for the taste buds, but you need to hie yourself over to Hahn Restaurant asap to experience it as it’s available for a limited time only.

If you feel that a visit to a Korean restaurant is not complete without grilling some meat, you can always add an ala carte order of Pork Belly Samgyupsal for just Php350.

Hahn Restaurant
Samgyupsal
Hahn Restaurant
Samgyupsal

So whenever you feel like grabbing the food off the K-drama lead’s hands during your binge-watching sesh, just drop by Hahn Restaurant to get your taste of deliciously authentic Korean food.

Hahn Restaurant
Happy Jellybeans!
Hahn Restaurant
Emperor’s Feast
Hahn Restaurant
Emperor’s Feast
Hahn Restaurant
Jellybeans and Jogpen

Hahn Restaurant is located at Third Floor, Korean Town, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Paranaque City, open Mondays to Thursdays from 10am to 7pm and Fridays to Sundays from 10am to 9pm. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 2 79337658 or +63 906 2142575.

You may also order from its website for delivery. Here’s a tip: Use my code JellyHR15 and get 15% off your orders (excluding The Emperor’s Feast). Code is valid until August 31, 2022 for online purchases.

To stay updated on its latest promos and offers, follow Hahn Restaurant on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Youtube.

Disclosure: I attended a food-tasting held in the restaurant. Food items mentioned here were served to facilitate the experience for an honest review.

Miguelito’s Avocado Locco

With the impending approach of those sweltering summer days, it’s time we explore ways to cool ourselves down.

A perennially favorite method of doing so is indulging ourselves with our favorite ice cream flavors. My fam’s preferred flavors happen to include avocado.

Avocado
Avocado

Avocados see much use in desserts here in the Philippines. Aside from its creamy richness and distinct flavor, this fruit pairs well with sugars like cane, honey and other sweeteners, resulting in delicious avocado flavored desserts.

To sate the Pinoy’s love for the avocado and avocado-based desserts, Miguelito’s Avocado Locco serves up various tasty iterations of the avocado ice cream at its many stalls in the metro.

I ordered some for my family’s meriend through FoodPanda. These include:

Avocado Oreo (Php110). Avocado ice cream with chopped avocados topped with crushed chocolate cookie crumbs and Miguelito’s special cream.

Miguelito’s Avocado Locco
Miguelito’s Avocado Locco

Nutty Avocado (Php120). Chopped avocados topped with avocado ice cream, sliced almonds and caramel sauce.

Miguelito’s Avocado Locco
Miguelito’s Avocado Locco

Avocado Sago (Php120). Sweetened small pearls and chopped avocados topped with avocado ice cream and Miguelito’s special cream.

Miguelito’s Avocado Locco
Miguelito’s Avocado Locco

Avocado Cheesecake (Php140). Chopped avocados cream cheese and sliced almonds topped with avocado ice cream and caramel sauce.

Miguelito’s Avocado Locco
Miguelito’s Avocado Locco

With these avocado ice cream treats so easily accessible, we’re in for some cool and delicious times this summer!

Miguelito’s Avocado Locco
Miguelito’s Avocado Locco

This Miguelito’s Avocado Locco stall is located at Second Floor, SM City East Ortigas, Ortigas Extension, Barangay Sta. Lucia, Pasig City.

To keep updated on Miguelito’s Avocado Locco’s latest promos and offers, follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Photo credit: Avocado photos by Dominika Roseclay from Pexels