Sunday brunch – Jellybeans in the City

Delightful takes on Filipino food: Locavore Kitchen + Drinks, Eastwood City

If you’re on the lookout for a place that beautifully reinvents Filipino cuisine, where the heartwarming flavors of home-cooked Filipino dishes intertwine with a dash of innovation, well, nestled in the vibrant Eastwood City neighborhood, is your ultimate destination for an unforgettable dining experience that brings classic Filipino flavors to new heights.

That is Locavore Kitchen + Drinks.

History and Mission

The story of Locavore is one of culinary passion and a commitment to reinventing Filipino cuisine. Four couples, including the dynamic Speedy and Alta Lyttle, teamed up with the daring and talented chef Kel Zagguire. Their vision? To take the comforting essence of home-cooked Filipino food and transform classic staples into something that appeals to a broader and more diverse palate.

Locavore’s journey began along Brixton Street in Kapitolyo, Pasig City, becoming a haven for locals in search of a community bistro within months of opening. With its playful and unique menu that still stays within the essence of straightforward Filipino flavors, Locavore became the place where you can enjoy “Filipino food you wouldn’t be able to eat at home.”

Unique Approach to Filipino Cuisine

At the core of Locavore’s identity lies an unyielding dedication to employing exclusively fresh, locally sourced ingredients, nurtured and cultivated by nearby farmers and growers. This devotion extends to fostering strong relationships within the local agricultural community, resulting in every mouthful being not just audacious and adventurous, but also naturally organic and environmentally sustainable. This holistic approach stands as a heartwarming gesture of reciprocity, echoing their commitment to empowering local businesses and embracing a more connected culinary ecosystem.

My Family’s Brunch Experience

One fine Sunday morning, after the family has attended mass, brunch seemed like a great idea. Given the fam’s developing taste for foodie adventures, we decided to dine at Locavore’s Eastwood branch.

In this restaurant with a chic hispter vibe, we found modernity and creativity in equal measure. The sleek interior design set the stage for an extraordinary meal. Its high ceiling and floor-to-ceiling windows that let in lots of natural light give a sense of spaciousness. For diners who prefer to enjoy their meal in the open air, Locavore offers an al fresco dining area where they can savor their food amidst the relaxed atmosphere of Eastwood’s surroundings.

For our Sunday brunch, the fam and I feasted on:

Salted Egg Chips (Php445). A tantalizing creation of thinly sliced taro coated in salted egg puree, topped with quesong puti and a zesty salsa, serving as a great start to our meal!

Boneless Lechon Belly (Php800). A nod to Cebu’s finest, served with pinakurat vinegar and bagoong, complemented by pickled cucumber.

Sizzling Sinigang (Php680). Locavore’s most famous dish, boasting tender beef cubes and vegetables served sour and garlicky on a sizzling plate. This is definitely a family favorite and not a dish to be missed!

Dining at Locavore is an experience that encapsulates the heart and soul of Filipino cuisine while weaving in innovative twists. So, whether you’re seeking something entirely different or yearning to rediscover a beloved favorite, Locavore is the answer. Gather your loved ones and embark on a culinary journey that tickles both your imagination and palate.

Head over to Locavore Kitchen + Drinks at Ground Floor 1880 Eastwood Ave Building, Eastwod City, Bagumbayan, Quezon City, open daily from 10am to 10pm. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 917 5120159.

Other Locavore branches are located at:

10 Brixton Street, Barangay Kapitolyo, Pasig City (+63 917 6842014)
Ground Floor, Estancia Mall, Capitol Commons, Oranbo, Pasig City (+63 917 7742023)
Forbes Town Center, Burgos Circle, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig (Tel: +63 917 5742017)
Ground Level, Three Central, Valero St., Salcedo Village, Makati (Tel: +63 917 1782018)
Ground Level, S’Maison, Seaside Blvd, Pasay (Tel: +63 917 8472747)
Upper Ground, SM Bacoor, Bgy Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo Highway corner Tirona Highway, Bacoor, Cavite (Tel: +63 917 1472022)

To stay updated on its menu and offers, follow Locavore Kitchen & Drinks on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous post about Locavore:

C lassic Filipino dishes with a twist at Locavore, Kapitolyo

Not your ordinary Filipino food at Locavore, BGC

Home-cooked delights for Sunday Brunch at Mom & Tina’s Libis

When it comes to finding the perfect spot for a cozy Sunday brunch, Mom & Tina’s new branch in Libis hits all the right notes. As a food blogger and a devoted lover of comfort food, I eagerly anticipated the new store opening of this delightful bakery café chain founded by the talented mother and daughter duo, Belen Torres and Tina Santos. What started as a hobby quickly blossomed into a popular destination, thanks to their mouthwatering home-cooked meals and pastries, all prepared with love using cherished family recipes.

A Warm and Inviting Ambiance

Stepping into Mom & Tina’s is like entering a haven of warmth and hospitality. The country-themed store in Libis is tastefully decorated, radiating a cozy and inviting atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease. The friendly and attentive staff add to the charm, making you feel like part of their extended family from the moment you walk through the door.

Exploring the Delicious Menu

The menu at Mom & Tina’s boasts an enticing selection of dishes, seamlessly blending traditional Filipino favorites with beloved American and European classics. During my family’s Sunday brunch, we indulged in a leisurely feast that left us craving for more.

Soup of the Day (Php185). Our appetites were stoked when we discovered that the day’s special was the Cream of Mushroom Soup, a beloved family favorite. Served alongside Mom & Tina’s signature garlic cheese rolls, it was the perfect comfort food combination to kickstart our brunch experience.

US Roast Beef (Php645). Tender slices of juicy roast beef, generously bathed in Mom & Tina’s savory gravy, stole the spotlight. Accompanied by a medley of mixed vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and fluffy steamed rice, it was a plate brimming with satisfying flavors.

Shepherd’s Pie (Php365). A comforting classic, Mom & Tina’s Shepherd’s Pie was a heavenly creation. The ground beef, sautéed with mushrooms, was enveloped in a luscious layer of velvety mashed potatoes and served with garlic rolls, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that warmed our hearts.

Country-fried Chicken and Waffles (Php445). For those seeking a delightful fusion of flavors, the Country-fried Chicken and Waffles did not disappoint. Crispy fried chicken paired with fluffy waffles, drizzled with maple syrup, offered a delectable combination of sweet and savory.

Satisfying the Sweet Tooth

No Sunday brunch is complete without indulging in some delectable desserts. Mom & Tina’s offerings certainly impressed our taste buds.

Chocolate Swirl Banana Cupcake (Php90). Its moist banana cake base, generously topped with fudgy chocolate frosting, provided a symphony of flavors that delighted both young and old.

Blueberry Cheesecake (Php265). With its velvety smooth texture and tantalizing bursts of blueberry goodness, it was the perfect ending to our brunch affair.

Unique Features that Set Mom & Tina’s Apart

Mom & Tina’s truly stands out from the crowd, and there are several reasons why it has become a go-to destination for families seeking a cozy place for Sunday brunch:

Fresh and High-Quality Ingredients: Mom & Tina’s is committed to using only the freshest and finest ingredients, ensuring each dish is a masterpiece of flavors.
Time-Honored Recipes: The dishes at Mom & Tina’s are crafted from scratch, following traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. This commitment to authenticity shines through in every bite.
Friendly and Attentive Staff: The warm and welcoming staff at Mom & Tina’s make you feel like part of their family. Their attentive service adds a touch of warmth to your dining experience.
Immaculate and Inviting Stores: The clean and well-maintained ambiance of Mom & Tina’s creates an environment where you can unwind and savor each moment with your loved ones.

Discover the Comforting Sunday Brunch Experience

Mom & Tina’s new branch in Libis is a haven for families in search of a cozy and inviting place to enjoy a scrumptious Sunday brunch. With their dedication to using fresh ingredients, time-honored recipes, friendly staff, and delightful ambiance, Mom & Tina’s ensures that each visit becomes a cherished memory.

So, if you’re looking for a place where delicious home-cooked dishes meet a warm and welcoming atmosphere, make your way to Mom & Tina’s.

This Mom & Tina’s branch is located at S&R Libis, E. Rodriguez Jr. Avenue corner Calle Industria, Bagumbayan, Quezon City, open for dine-in, takeout and delivery daily from 8am to 10pm. For inquiries and reservations, contact +63 2 82568611 or +63 999 8850092.

Other branches are located at:

Across ABS-CBN Main Building, 58 Sgt. Esguerra Avenue, Barangay South Triangle, Quezon City (Tel: +63 2 83323579 or 63 999 8859254)
Tropical Palms Condominium, 103 De la Rosa Street corner Perea Street, Legazpi Village, Makati City (Tel: +63 2 88943598 or +63 999 8859252)

Know more about Mom & Tina’s by visiting its website or following it on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous posts about Mom & Tina’s:

Mom & Tina's Greenhills — Mom & Tina’s Greenhills

Indulge in delicious comfort food at Mom & Tina’s

Cafe Mary Grace, Uptown BGC: A Cozy Haven for the Fam’s Sunday Brunch

Cafe Mary Grace may have been dubbed the quintessential “tita place,” but I can’t help but embrace the delicious comfort it offers to its diners. And to tell you a secret: I’m not the only one in my family who does!

Ever since Hubby discovered his favorite pasta and sandwich combination at Cafe Mary Grace in SM City East Ortigas, he has oftentimes spearheaded family meals at its other branches.

One of our Sunday brunches after attending Mass was no exception, which we had at Cafe Mary Grace in Uptown Mall, BGC.

A Rich Heritage

Cafe Mary Grace is more than just a café; it is the realization of a passion for baking that started in 1983. Mary Grace Dimacali, the creative force behind the brand, began her journey as a young mother with a knack for working with dough. Starting with fruitcakes during Christmas, her delectable creations soon gained popularity among friends and family. Encouraged by her biggest supporter, Mary Grace expanded her reach by participating in bazaars, where her airy ensaymadas and cheese rolls became instant favorites.

As the bazaars thrived, Mary Grace’s children, Chiara, Gabriel, Raffy, Adrian, and Mian, realized the brand’s immense potential. In 2006, they took a leap of faith and opened the first Mary Grace Cafe in Serendra, BGC. The cafe became a true embodiment of their passion for good food and warm hospitality. Today, Cafe Mary Grace in Uptown Mall, BGC carries on the tradition, providing a haven for families seeking a memorable Sunday brunch experience.

Ambiance and Decor

This Cafe Mary Grace branch embraces its diners with a sense of home. The warm lighting, tasteful interiors, and a calm yet energizing atmosphere create a perfect setting for relaxation and connection. The modern Filipino decor, with its wooden accents and vibrant colors, reflects the cafe’s commitment to celebrating local culture. As you dine, you’ll notice dainty lamps and chandeliers adorning the ceilings, and heartfelt messages of appreciation from previous diners gracing the tables.

The cafe is thoughtfully designed to accommodate families of all sizes. The spacious dining area can comfortably seat large groups, ensuring that nobody feels left out. For those who enjoy dining al fresco, a few tables are available outside, allowing you to soak up the pleasant surroundings. At the heart of the cafe, you’ll find the bakery, where you can pick up an array of freshly baked pastries to enjoy later.

A Scrumptious Sunday Brunch

Now, let’s dive into the mouthwatering offerings that my family enjoyed at Cafe Mary Grace in BGC’s Uptown Mall. Made with lots of love and attention to detail, these dishes cemented Cafe Mary Grace’s place in our hearts:

Fili Beef & Tomato (Php403). Tender slices of beef served between batard bread with pesto dressing, garnished with tomato and lettuce. A flavorful and satisfying option for those craving a hearty sandwich.

Seafood Pasta (Php475). A seafood lover’s dream come true! Fresh clams, mussels, prawns, squid, and cream dory tossed with al dente pasta, olives, mushrooms, and tomatoes create a symphony of flavors.

Mary Grace Mushroom Cream (Php498 + Php150 for prosciutto). Indulge in fettuccine noodles enveloped in a delectable cream sauce with slivers of shiitake mushrooms. The dish is elevated with a touch of truffle oil and topped with savory sliced prosciutto.

Pasta Amatriciana with Italian Meatballs (Php433). A classic favorite with a Mary Grace twist. Spaghetti noodles topped with succulent Italian meatballs tossed in a thick tomato sauce with a hint of bacon.

Classic Carbonara (Php433). For those seeking the ultimate comfort, al dente pasta is perfectly combined with fresh mushrooms and crispy bacon slices in a homespun cream sauce.

Dory & Saffron Cream (Php430). Delight your taste buds with linguini noodles coated in a light cream sauce infused with leeks and saffron. The dish is elevated with pan-fried fillets of cream dory, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Indulgent Seasonal Desserts

No Sunday brunch is complete without a sweet ending, and Cafe Mary Grace delivers in this department too, especially with its limited-time cake offerings. Treat yourself to this heavenly desserts that will leave you craving for more before they leave the menu:

Banana Bella. A frozen pie crafted with fresh bananas, Belgian truffle ganache, and rich custard cream nestled in a buttery pie crust and topped with toasted almonds. A delightful fusion of flavors and textures.

Chocolate Rum Tiramisu. A scrumptious confection that combines espresso-soaked sponge cake made with 100-percent Arabica beans, luscious layers of mascarpone and dark chocolate ganache, and a subtle hint of premium aged Don Papa Rum.

Sundays are meant for relaxation, quality time with loved ones, and, of course, indulging in a delicious meal. If you’re on the lookout for a warm and inviting place to enjoy a comforting Sunday family meal, look no further than Cafe Mary Grace in Uptown Mall, Bonifacio Global City.

This Cafe Mary Grace branch is located at Level 4, Uptown Place Mall, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, open daily from 10am to 10pm. For inquiries and reservations, contact +63 2 87773263 or +63 917 8129154.

Stay updated on its promos and offers by visiting its website or following Cafe Mary Grace on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous posts about Cafe Mary Grace:

A tita brunch at Cafe Mary Grace, Eastwood Mall

5 ways Cafe Mary Grace’s ensaymada solves your holiday gifting dilemma

GrabFood Signatures family dinner from Cafe Mary Grace

Why we love Cafe Mary Grace’s Cheese Rolls: A delicious culinary delight

Indulging in comfort snacking at Cafe Mary Grace, SM East Ortigas

Sunday brunch at Crisostomo: A nostalgic feast for the family

I always look forward to Sundays. Aside from being a day of rest from my usual work, it affords me with some precious time to spend with my family.

Hubby and I usually take advantage of this day to take the kids out for brunch after Sunday mass and we are always on the lookout for fresh foodie experiences to share with the fam, such as our Sunday brunch at Crisostomo.

Location: A Quaint Haven in the Heart of Eastwood

Nestled in the Second Floor Veranda of Eastwood Mall, Crisostomo sure looks like a great destination for families seeking a memorable time over a good meal. Being short drive away from the church, and its relatively early opening hours at 10am daily also makes it a convenient location for the family’s Sunday brunch.

Ambiance: A Quaint Journey to Old Manila

Crisostomo is quite an unassuming establishment with a quaint and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant’s charming interior boasts subtle design touches reminiscent of Old Manila. From antique-inspired crown mouldings to old-fashioned chandeliers, the ambiance creates an inviting setting for families to relax and relish in the flavors of Filipino cuisine.

A Taste of Filipino Delights: Unveiling Crisostomo’s Menu

Crisostomo’s menu is a treasure trove of Filipino culinary delights. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted and pays homage to characters in Jose Rizal’s novels and personalities from his life. Here are some standout dishes that we savored during our Sunday brunch:

Kinilaw ni Custodio (Php295). A refreshing starter of tuna ceviche infused with the rich flavors of coconut milk.

Sisig Linares (Php295). Crispy and flavorful classic pork sisig from Pampanga, a Filipino favorite that never fails to delight the taste buds.

Bracken Tofu (Php215). A sizzling plate of tofu, elevated with a delectably savory sauce.

Pilosopong Pinakbet (Php325). A traditional Ilocano dish comprised of an assortment of native vegetables, showcasing the rich tapestry of Filipino flavors.

Joaquin (Php725). Tender beef shanks bathed in a sumptuous mushroom gravy, offering a hearty and satisfying dish for meat lovers.

A Culinary Journey by Chef Florabel Co-Yatco: Unleashing Filipino Cuisine

Crisostomo is a proud member of the Florabel Group, an esteemed collection of restaurants headed by the talented Chef Florabel Co-Yatco. Similar to its sister establishments like Elias, Corazon, and Sisa’s Secret, Crisostomo stands as a testament to Chef Florabel’s culinary prowess and firm belief in the vast potential within Filipino cuisine. It also celebrates the unique regional dishes that define our culinary heritage.

Brunching with Loved Ones at Crisostomo

Sunday brunch at Crisostomo is an experience that combines exceptional Filipino cuisine with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether it’s relishing the rich flavors of traditional dishes or discovering new regional flavors to try and enjoy, Crisostomo promises an unforgettable dining experience that will delight both your taste buds and your soul. So gather your loved ones, head to Crisostomo, and savor the flavors of Filipino cuisine together.

This Crisostomo branch is located at Second Floor, Veranda, Eastwood Mall, Brgy. Bagumbayan, Quezon City, open daily from 10am to 10pm. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 2 87092049 or +63 917 8814768.

Other Metro Manila branches are located at:

Muntinlupa: Alabang Town Center
Paranaque: Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard corner Aseana Avenue, Blue Bay Walk, Newport Mall
Pasig: Ayala Malls Feliz, Estancia Mall
Quezon City: Ayala Malls Vertis North, Robinsons Galleria, Robinsons Magnolia,
Taguig: Bonifacio Global City

To know more about Crisostomo, visit its website or follow it on Facebook or Instagram.