Diamond in the Rough

The Good Thing about Bad Bird Serendra

I have this impression that the food in Bad Bird is way too expensive for my average budget. There is always a long line at Hole in the Wall but I never joined the hype. For me, a chicken platter seems too common to be overrated. However, how can the good reviews not convince me…

Goto Believe: Gourmet Lugaw for the Win

With the rapid changes and innovations today, it’s no surprise to see creative and out-of-the-box food concepts sprout like mushrooms everywhere. In every city, there is something new to rave about. What’s even more impressive is that how food enthusiasts transition a simple food into something grandiose, even in the shabby nooks or corners unimaginable….

A Newbie’s Adventures in Baler

My summer was packed with colorful adventures. Another late summer trip last June which was memorable to me was when I traveled to Baler for a team building with Team D. I mentioned in my previous post that I am always game for team buildings because I want to bond with my associates outside work…

Team Building Made More Fun at Aquaria Water Park

I always look forward to attending annual team buildings. It’s the best time of the year when you get to bond with your colleagues outside the usual office routine and enjoy the perks of the company. Although I’ve had a fair share of beach clubs, resorts, recreational centers, parks and other team building venues outside…

Things I Love About My Ilocos Trip

Many things have been said and written about Ilocos, being a famous tourist site in the country. It’s a melting pot of rich culture and history, good food, pretty beaches, and scenic places. I won’t discuss too much on history as I am not well-versed in that, nor give a detailed itinerary because surely, the…

Keeping it Low Key, One Day at a Time

If you’ll notice, I haven’t written a blog post in a while. I would write one post, but the gap until the next one is a bit long. I don’t want to claim that I am losing inspiration to write, but probably I just get caught up with a series of emotions or happenings that…

Nana’s Farm: A Tranquil Country House in Tagaytay

As a traveler, I noticed I’ve changed preferences. I wanted to deviate a little bit from the mainstream to pursue the road less traveled. I guess it comes with the maturity that it gets clear what you want, even if that does not conform to what is popular. Ironically, it is simple but not always…

Calle Gourmet: Gourmet Food for Less

As someone who loves food, I’ve tried quite a number of restaurants already. I get excited trying newly-opened food businesses and check out how they uniquely execute their concepts. Whether it’s a hole-in-the-wall, a classy restaurant, a budget eatery or a famous fast food chain — I’m sure there is always something extraordinaire to discover….

One Sweet Day at the Dessert Museum

Fatma and I have been friends for 15 years already. She has now moved to Saudi to work as a pharmacist and we make it a point to see each other once in a while each time she comes home in the Philippines. We’ve surely changed a lot — not only in perspectives but also…

Exquisite Dining Experience at The Cafe at Hyatt | City of Dreams

In the family, we always treat each occasion as special as possible. My mom instilled to us that memories are always priceless and that family should be a top priority. That’s why even if it comes with a hefty price tag, my sister and I often look for new ways to hold our celebrations, be…

Takusa, Ramen Under Php 150 in Pateros: Yay or Nay?

Pateros holds many memories during my teenage years. It was a common place for doing small errands, riding a jeepney, or eating our favorite merienda such as Goto, Inutak, and Palabok at Aling Tessie’s Lugawan — a famous eatery in the town. When we moved to staffhouse in Pembo, my family and I didn’t get…

Another Story: The Story of a Whimsical Restaurant in Alabang

I’ve always been vocal about my penchant for themed restaurants. The distinct effort to design the interiors aesthetically could speak so much about the ingenuity of the concept, aside from the owner’s passion for food. As for Another Story in Alabang, they were able to manifest both. It holds so many reasons why the story…

Holiday Staycation at Azure Urban Residences

For my sister’s birthday, we booked an overnight stay at Azure Urban Residences via Airbnb. This was the chosen venue after the lunch celebration at The Cafe at Hyatt in City of Dreams. I’ve heard so much about Azure, being the property designed by the famous Paris Hilton. The swimming pools were structured similar to…

Centuria Medical Makati Holds Women’s Health and Financial Wellness Expo

The month of March is very emphatic on celebrating and honoring women. You’ve seen events, activities and programs centered on recognizing women’s contributions to the society and likewise celebrating their individuality. In conjunction with the International Women’s Month, Centuria Medical has organized an event last March 16 to promote awareness on women’s health, wellness and…

Ippudo Ramen: A Ramen Champion

There are those days when thinking where to eat seems a chore. When running out of choices, there is always a default place where all parties can willfully agree and temporarily set aside prejudices — a Ramen bar. Caught up in the same dilemma, we headed to Ippudo for a late lunch in Uptown. Ramen is a…

Elements Hall @ Rallos Grand Opening

Quezon City is a bustling food scene in the metropolis. In addition to the bountiful restaurants, food gems, food parks and hole-in-the-wall dining spots, Elements Hall brings together in a two-storey food complex a dynamic range of gourmet finds. Today, we witnessed the grand opening. I noticed that each concessionaire is a new concept, something…

Six Daily Steals at 8 Cuts Burger Blends

When it comes to quality burgers, 8 Cuts Burger Blends is a cut above the rest. Boasting eight different cuts of premium beef complemented with the freshest of ingredients, 8 Cuts has become a hallmark among the burger joints in the metro. Just like any growing restaurant, 8 Cuts constantly evolves and improves. It was…

5 Romantic Restaurants for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s day is just around the corner. I don’t usually join the bandwagon and avoid restaurants and malls this day due to heavy traffic and V-day “commercialism”, but I know many still look forward to celebrating it with their loved ones. It’s that red-letter day when most dining places are fully-booked, hence people are looking…

Blue Lagoon Inn And Suites: Budget Yet Classy Hotel in Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa was our last stop in Palawan before heading back home. We stayed overnight for a simple city tour, food trip in one of its best restaurants and last-minute pasalubongs before going back to Manila. Since this marks the last stretch of our Palawan adventure, we wanted it to be more laid back but…

Shawarma Bros Introduces its New Menu

Isn’t it exciting when a restaurant rolls out a new roster of its menu? For me, it is a good indication that people behind the business are constantly thinking of innovative ways to please its customers. The competitive food industry is evolving too fast that you can’t be complacent enough. Trends in the market come…

Why Visiting Your Former School is Life Changing

Last October 2017, I visited my high school with my friends Rekha and Euri. It started with a random tagging at a Facebook post then popped the question “Tara, visit tayo sa CSA!” “Kailan? Bukas pwede ako !” Knowing that it is very rare for us to meet schedules due to work responsibilities, I took the…

Traveling Essentials for the Smart Backpacker

I love to travel. The idea of going to the mountain, a secluded island or a remote city in the country thrills me. With my frequency in traveling, somehow I already have a list consistent list of must-haves when going outdoors. Completing your traveling gears makes it easier to set a routine when packing. It…

What 2017 Taught Me

Writing this was not easy, hence the delay. Although there are lots of excuses to be made not publishing this, (such as work, busyness, etc.), I just can’t break a yearly tradition and skip looking back at 2017. But tracing the root of my reluctance, it could probably because I am not too satisfied with…

#Bestmeever Book Launch: Of Positivity and Possibilities

We all have our low moments. Inevitably, there will be circumstances that would challenge our faith and test our character. Sometimes, all we need is a ray of sunshine to cope. These come in the form of people, sometimes situations, or even an inspiration from a book. #BestMeEver is a book that presents little nuggets…

Lola Deling’s Traditions: Passion in Every Jar of Atchara

Today, almost anything in the kitchen can be made to enhance the taste of our food. There are variants of appetizers or sides to choose from, but my admiration goes to the ones made of out one’s labor of love. One of which is Atchara, or pickled green papaya placed in an airtight container and…

United Bloggers Philippines Holds Thanksgiving Party

The year 2017 was remarkable for me. It was the year I started to join groups in blogging which paved the way for me to meet new friends and be introduced to local brands in the community. It opened doors of opportunity for me and likewise deepened my perspective about this passion through exposure to…

Hortikultura 2018 Happening on Feb 2-11

LIFE IN THE CITY Living in the city has its perks. Being the center of business and commercialization, it has created changes and differences in the lives of people. However, as technology advancements flourish too quickly, the fast-paced modernization also poses hazardous effects towards our health. In an urban zone where towering edifices almost dominate the…

Tips in Planning a Staycation with the Family

Staycation is now a well-rounded alternative for family outings, a great idea for a bonding activity. Considering the unfavorable condition of traffic nowadays, many prefer staycation over out-of-town travels to save time and energy. It’s easier to plan, based on my experience. I have always initiated staycations with my family during holidays or special occasions….

Restaurant Depot: Your One Stop Shop in the Food Industry

Being in the food business requires you to have several connections to constantly replenish your stocks, supplies, and equipment. Surviving in this booming industry means being on par with your competitors, so completing all the necessary things is a must. Good news for everyone in the restaurant business, there is now a depot tailored to…

Fat Fook: A Taste of Taiwan in Manila

Following the successful reign of Ramen Nagi in the Metro food scene, the same owners who are passionate about good food and travel brought another Asian concept to Manila — this time putting Taiwanese cuisine in the spotlight. Fat Fook, or “fat luck“ introduces its second branch in Robinson’s Galleria after the first branch in…

Christmas Gift-Giving Hacks and Thrift Tips

Since I started working, I consider gift-giving as an important part of our Christmas celebration. It’s my little way of giving back to others, sharing my blessings with them. Gift-giving is also one of my primary love languages to other people so I do cherish this chance to express my affection and gratitude. Inevitably, choosing…

Ramen Nagi: My December Comfort Food

Christmas rush can be a bit tiring, admittingly. When traffic, long lines, and crowded malls get too overbearing, I can’t think of a better way to de-stress than indulging in my favorite food – Ramen! Nothing beats a good bowl of hot, rich, flavorful Ramen this cold weather, and Ramen Nagi is definitely the answer…

Dapo Bar and Restaurant: Making Your Occasions Extra Memorable

It’s indeed the most festive time of the year! Typically, it’s the season when we gather with our friends, families and loved ones to celebrate the holidays over food and gift-giving. As we participate in subsequent celebrations left and right, the dilemma would always be thinking of the venue. On these momentous occasions, we’re often…

A Sweet Stop at Vizco’s Restaurant and Cake Shop

I’ve known Vizco’s as the famous, leading supplier of the luscious Strawberry Shortcake in Baguio. Even if it was not much publicized years ago in online platforms getting honored as one of the must-to-go-places in Baguio, it has been the talk of the town for its decadent desserts. Word of mouth was its strongest marketing…

Plakafe: A Fusion of Art, Vinyl Music and Cuisine in Baguio City

Baguio will always be one of my favorite destinations for vacation. Even with the outgrowing number of tourists that slightly obstructs its natural beauty, Baguio holds this undisputed charm that won’t dissuade me from visiting it. I know there are still beautiful places, stories, and people to be discovered in the lovely City of Pines…

All4U Unlimited Grill and Organic Shabu Shabu

Annyeong-Haseyo! There is something too enticing about Korean food that made me visit three restaurants in just two months. I’ve visited Nice 2 Meat U, Jumong, and just recently – All4U Unlimited Grill and Organic Shabu Shabu in Century Mall, Makati. It could be the freshness of ingredients, the aesthetics in food presentation, convenience in dining,…

Follow Your Sweet Cravings at Mio Gelati

When it comes to cold desserts, Gelato will always be my top pick. Compared to ice cream, Gelato is more dense, rich, creamy and flavorful. Despite the small servings, the taste lingers in my mouth. I remember indulging a lot of this dessert during my El Nido trip! Imagine my excitement when I received the…

10 Things You Can Do This Long Weekend

Nope, I am not part of the population rejoicing over the recently declared long weekend due to the ASEAN Summit. I got work to do during these days, sadly. However, I can at least suggest some activities you can do or places to visit during these holidays. Planning an out-of-town trip sounds a good idea,…

El Mateo: Artisan Spreads Within Your Budget

We always look for ways to enhance our food. With the constant innovation in the food industry today, I am not surprised if there are several new products being introduced left and right in the market to improve our food experience. As an example, dips and spreads started to boom among small entrepreneurs to provide…

Mackerel and Salted Egg Nachos + Uni-Pak Giveaway

We Pinoys always look at Mackerel as a simple, straightforward dish that saves the unplanned dinner if you’re running out of budget or time to prepare a heavy meal. Toss it from the can, either saute it in noodles or eat it as it is – then you’re good to go. However, with its many…

Garden Cheese Omelet Recipe

I call this the Garden Cheese Omelet because it has veggies and cheese in it. I’m not yet skilled in creating a perfect omelet so I let my brother assist me, since he used to work in the kitchen. It looks hard to try, if you got the right pan temperature and techniques, it’s easy…

Shrimp, Chicken and Veggies in Olive Oil Recipe

Lately, I am trying to switch my lifestyle by changing my diet. With that, I am trying to find recipes that can substitute veggies for rice. My food stash consists of mostly vegetables, chicken, seafood, etc. With the available ingredients in my refrigerator, I tried to come up with a simple recipe that combines chicken, shrimp…

Justice League Grand Launch: Will You Join the League?

The most-awaited movie of the year is ready to rock the theaters soon. But before that much anticipated premiere, Pacific Licensing Studio, in collaboration with Warner Bros. Consumer Products and SM Supermalls set the stage ablaze as it launched DC’s legendary superheroes, the Justice League last October 14 at The Block of SM North Edsa. The…

Nailaholics Celebrate #NationalPamperingDay again! (Market!Market! Experience)

It’s my first time at Nailaholics. I used to think that specialized nail services like these are too luxurious for my taste. Good thing, Nailaholics held its second year of National Pampering Day, and that I was one of the recipients of this complimentary gift together with its other loyal patrons. Its aim was to…

Nice Two Meat U: Riding the Korean Bandwagon (Not!)

Kdrama has taken over the trend today, influencing music, gestures, language and even food. Thanks to the Kdrama hype, a lot of Korean restaurants today have boosted their influx of customers wanting to immerse on the culture of their idols. Seeing a lot of friends on my IG feed dining at Korean restaus, I suddenly…

Things I’ve learned from the Food Photography Workshop by Ricky Ladia and Fujifilm PH

Last August, I attended a Food Photography Workshop organized by Hole in the Wall, Fujifilm and Ricky Ladia. When I knew that the registration was free, I hurriedly signed up. I know that photography workshops can be way too expensive so I did not let this opportunity pass. Ricky Ladia worked as a photographer for…

October 17, 2017 is #NationalPamperingDay!

Today’s “millenial” generation has become active in wearing many hats at work, school, church and community. Although I am evasive about being labeled as a member of it (still in denial, yeah!), I am not exempted from having that active lifestyle as I juggle career, home, blogging and church ministries all at the same time….

Spanish Sardines Pasta Recipe

Inspired by the outcome of the Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta, I tried making use of Spanish Sardines as the base ingredient for my new pasta recipe. I prefered sardines over tuna because the it is less fishy but tastier. I also resolved to keep a stock of olive oil in my pantry because I…

Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp with Angel Hair Pasta

Pasta is one of my favorite dishes by default. Pertaining to sauces, I am more inclined to cooking cream and tomato-based ones because these are more in-demand in the family. But recently, I tried cooking oil-based variants since the last dish my that friend Kit and I prepared turned out well. Cooking became our bonding…

Tour C in El Nido: Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Star Beach, Matinloc Shrine and Helicopter Island

Just after a five-hour sleep at Balay Paragua, we woke up as early as 6 am the following day to prepare for the start of our island tour. It was only a short rest to recover from the gruesome traveling hours, but our excitement to explore the best island in the world replaced all the…