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Category: Makati

  • Review of Alchemy Bistro Bar (Poblacion, Makati City)

    Review of Alchemy Bistro Bar (Poblacion, Makati City)

    Tucked away in the neighborhood of Poblacion, Alchemy Bistro Bar (Food + Potions) has been serving up straightforward European meals since last year. Surprisingly, it has an extensive menu of not only wines and beers but also food served in generous and satisfying portions.

    This restaurant is an approachable spot that’s only a short walk from the hip Jupiter Street and is located quite in the heart of the developing foodie district in Makati. We visited Alchemy last Sunday and found that is a good option for a special date or a night out with your barkada.

    Review of Alchemy Bistro Bar (Poblacion, Makati City)

    Ambiance: ★★★★★

    If you know the manga/anime series Fullmetal Alchemist or are familiar with the concept of alchemy, I’m sure you will love the consistent decorations and displays here at the Alchemy Bistro Bar. I didn’t have any idea until my boyfriend explained that “alchemy” is seemingly a magical process of transformation, creation, or transmutation of matter with the sequence of comprehension, deconstruction, and reconstruction.

    Alchemy is associated with the medieval forerunner of chemistry, and this is why we saw test tubes and some lab objects that looked weird at first. As I began to slowly grasp its meaning, everything made perfect sense. The interpretation applied on the interior design was awesome.

    Brick and purple-painted walls gave a beautiful sophisticated look throughout the area. On one side of the dining room, full-length windows provided warm and flattering natural light during daytime. On the opposite view, the bar full of wines, beers, and “potions” brought a fitting backdrop as the focal accent of the bistro.

    Staying true to the venue’s theme, a picture of the transmutation circle, print of old books as wallpaper, gargoyles, and mannequins without heads were absolutely attention-grabbing elements that characterize the mystical practice of alchemy.

    The open kitchen at the side gave a glimpse of some live action going on. It’s always nice to say a quick “hi” to the chef. 🙂

    Lushly cushioned chairs were comfortable to sit on, and the rest of the furniture managed to project luxury without scaring away those who might just want a quick lunch or a glass of cocktail. Overall, Alchemy Bistro Bar looked like a great spot that’s chic enough for special occasions but also casual enough for a relaxed dinner with a friend.

    At Alchemy Bistro Bar, there’s also an entertainment stage where music is played all night long. Genre of songs rotates nightly and everyone is welcome to dance to the beats.

    The second floor showed a different side of the Alchemy Bistro Bar altogether. Bright color combinations and creative dining layouts made sure that there are enough yellow-brown clad seats to make guests feel like they got the best table in the house.

    Service: ★★★★★

    Personable and thorough, the staff toured us around and introduced dishes on the menu professionally. Her kind gesture definitely won plus points on customer service. Serving of the food and drinks was done well and in a timely manner. It was also a pleasant experience to meet and chat with the owner who also happens to be the main chef of the restaurant.

    with Chef/Owner Tina Moscardon

    Food: ★★★☆☆

    For appetizer, we shared a platter of Baked Oysters (PhP 350, 6 pieces) which I thought were really good. Beneath its crisp, browned surface, a buttery filling of spinach, Hollandaise sauce, and Gruyère cheese offered a delightful contrast to the oyster’s briny and meaty taste and texture.

    Baked in the shell, the oysters were fresh and properly salty. It’s one of those entrees that taste so good that it’s hard to imagine anything tasting better.

    Next, we were served with the Slow-braised Lamb Shank (PhP 775), a house specialty that’s been marinated and slowly braised for 42 hours. Wow! The tenderness of this New Zealand lamb shank was incredible. It was fall-apart soft off the bone.

    Mediterranean couscous, sultanas, pine nuts, mint, carrots, and French beans added a gently sweet spice with a surprising depth. The accompanying sauce also lifted the flavor that went well with the lamb shank. However, in the end, we still thought that the lamb tasted too “mild” or bland for our liking.

    Also marinated and cooked for more than 36 hours, the glistening Roasted Organic Chicken (PhP 450) was nice but not so rich. With a tea-like aroma, the taste of rosemary was evident and the flavor clung to every bite. Paired with rice pilaf vegetables and chicken jus, this chicken dish was both earthy and succulent.

    The Alchemy Pizza (PhP 450) consisted of ingredients having distinct flavors that sadly overpowered more than complemented the others. The result of putting speck, balsamic reduction, truffle oil, Scamorza cheese, and arugula could be a hit or a miss according to one’s tasting preference.

    What’s nice though was that it didn’t skimp on any of the toppings. I just did not appreciate the strong and salty flavor profile of the cured ham. It was worth a try nonetheless.

    For desserts, we had the Crème Brûlée (PhP 210), a classic made with Fresh vanilla beans, and the Warm Molten Chocolate Cake (PhP 240), a soft-centered Belgian chocolate cake with chantilly cream on the side. Not too sweet and not too heavy, these treats were enjoyable.

    For the most part, I loved how the simple and subtle flavors of vanilla bean and burnt caramel were highlighted in the crème brûlée.

    Alchemy Bistro Bar offers a super long list of drinks, but what took our interest were the mocktails. Served in a sexy slanted glass, the Cucumber Delight (PhP 210) tasted okay and quite natural. It was made with a healthy blend of fresh cucumber, mint, and lime.

    Louie ordered the Thirst Quencher (PhP 210) that was made with pineapple, orange, and ginger ale. In fairness, there’s a good balance of citrus notes and spiciness of ginger. It’s a drink recommended for serious ginger ale fanatics.

    Price for Value: ★★★☆☆

    While decors and the theme may look bizarre, food and drinks at the Alchemy Bistro Bar (Food + Potions) in Makati are pretty decent and not the “experimental” type as I initially had in mind. This is a great place to explore when you feel like discovering French fare and more European-inspired dishes plus cool drinks to try out.

    Price point is affordable and not alarmingly expensive. They even serve BUDGET LUNCH MEALS from Tuesday to Sunday, and this calls for a great deal for people who live or work nearby. Check out its Facebook page to know more of their promos and upcoming events.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/alchemybistrobar” name=”Alchemy Bistro Bar” description=”4893 Durban Street corner Polaris Street, Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City” rev_name=”For inquiries, call 02 5007398 / +63 9175555641″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-09-10″ user_review=”16″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

  • Review of Caruso Ristorante Italiano (Bel-Air, Makati City)

    Review of Caruso Ristorante Italiano (Bel-Air, Makati City)

    Permeating a classy vibe, Caruso Ristorante Italiano in Nicanor Garcia Street, Makati (an easy walk from SM Jazz Mall) is where dishes are expertly prepared and enhanced with a solid wine list raising the bar for your mealtime pleasure. This restaurant which started operating since 15 years ago was named after Enrico Caruso who’s regarded by many music lovers as the greatest Italian operatic tenor of all time.

    Caruso is a high-end authentic Italian restaurant offering a cozy, quaint ambiance for customers who appreciate fine dining and delicious Italian food. It’s a popular choice for expats and a date-night nexus of romantics. Louie and I had lunch here last Saturday with its owner, Emilio Mina, and Online Community Marketing Manager, EJ Santos, as our kind and gracious hosts.

    Review of Caruso Ristorante Italiano (Bel-Air, Makati City)

    Ambiance: ★★★★★

    The interior design of Caruso Ristorante Italiano looked like a page out of Italy. And why shouldn’t it be, this restaurant has a traditional look with rustic furniture and wooden white-clothed tables. Lightning levels and spaciousness complete the atmosphere where people can unwind in an intimate setting. Soft music playing on the background added to the unpretentious charm.

    The place also finds personality with paintings/artworks and fine wine bottles displayed at the bar section and some hanging on the walls. It’s exactly where I can imagine men in suits and women in beautiful dresses get together for a refined meal. Speaking of attire, wearing of shorts, sando, and slippers is not allowed inside.

    Service: ★★★★★

    The staff were all knowledgeable on the menu and they provided exquisite service. Since items on the menu are in Italian, first-timers who find it difficult to understand and order may find it best to allow the waiters to drive recommendations while they ride along. Every request was handled promptly and effectively, and personal attention made us feel more welcome.

    Food: ★★★★☆

    Our meal began on a high note, with a complimentary round of freshly baked Focaccia bread delivered to the table. As dip, the combination of balsamic vinegar and olive oil was deceptively simple yet tasty, resulting in a mouthwatering epicurean delight. Much like French fries with your burger, this bread can be treated as a good “sidekick” for any main pasta entrée as well.

    La Risacca Salad (PhP 860) consisted of  juicy chunks of tomatoes and plump shrimps in tortella. The shrimp’s taste was straightforward and won the perfect marriage of sweet and savory right in a bite. Yes, it was appetizing albeit not too bold and exciting in terms of flavor. We just wished there were more basil leaves or lettuce to the salad. It’s a good move to get this dish, if you’re not much of an adventurous eater.

    Given choices for pasta, which would you prefer: red, white, or green? The good news is that in Caruso Ristorante Italiano, the answer can be all of the above. A long list of different kinds of pasta is available on the menu, and customers are free to choose three kinds of pasta in seafood sauce to be served in one plate. Note: Portions are rather small compared to the full-fledged/regular portion.

    We had Spaghetti Aglio Olio e Peperoncino con Vongole (PhP 590 – regular size)—spaghetti with garlic, olive oil, chili and clams, Garganelli in Salsa di Pomodoro e Gamberetti (PhP 630 – regular size)—homemade garganelli with shrimp and tomato sauce, and Tagliolini Portofino con Salmone e Caviale (PhP 750 – regular size)—homemade taglioni with salmon and caviar. All three were creamy and perfectly seasoned, neither heavy nor greasy.

    Capping off our carbs quota, the Tagliatelle Alla Crema di Tartufo (PhP 680) was finished with truffle cream and topped with the lovely parma ham. It’s both decadent and comforting, with a hint of truffles.

    In a world filled with too many kinds of pizzas, the awesome flavor of cheese may be one of the most basic edible explanation proving why classic cheese pizza is a hit. Boasting the three colors of the Italian flag—red (tomatoes), white (Mozzarella cheese), and green (basil), the Margherita Pizza (PhP 670) was simple and just timeless. I would have found it more remarkable with a thinner and crispier crust.

    The Margherita with Mozzarella Bufala (PhP 980) was presented with a slight upgrade from the Margherita Pizza; that is, with the snowy white bufala mozzarella cheese featuring a mild and slightly sour taste. The pizza crust was about the same, soft and a bit chewy.

    For dessert, we had the deliciously creamy classic Italian Panna Cotta (PhP 360) which took me like on a mini Italian vacation while relishing it with my eyes closed. The concoction of this sweet pudding-like treat can put the regular panna cotta or leche flan we know to shame. Its texture was so good I just can’t get enough! 🙂 Obviously, it’s a must-try.

    Punctuating the end of lunch was Caruso’s Tiramisu (PhP 360), which was likewise flavorful without being too dense. Those layers of cocoa-dusted mascarpone, coffee syrup and sweet, light cake were definitely delightful. Once you taste heaven, you wouldn’t to come back down to earth.

    As a good wine paired to every dish, we tried the Prosecco Brut Treviso Agr. Venegazzù Veneto (PhP 380/glass, PhP 2800/bottle) (second from the left on the picture below) which brought out the fruity taste of tomatoes and the inherent sweetness of the cheese, framing up the integrity and quality of the other ingredients overall. It was zesty and enjoyable, party in the mouth! 🙂

    Price for Value: ★★☆☆☆

    So far, at Caruso Ristorante Italiano, price for value does not quite deserve a standing ovation. Classic Italian fare served with flair and care is what you’ll find here, so it’s probably best to consider it a distinguished night out and you won’t be mad. In any case, if you’re a seriously loved-up fan of Italian food or celebrating a special occasion, it’s okay to indulge without minding the high prices, as food tastes and ambiance surely won’t make you feel disappointed.

    Bon appétit! 🙂

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/CarusoManila” name=”Caruso Ristorante Italiano” description=”210 Nicanor Garcia Street, Bel-Air, Makati City” rev_name=”For inquiries/reservations, call (02) 8952451 or +63 9175812832″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-08-13″ user_review=”16″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

    Operating Hours:
    Lunch 11:30AM-2:30PM
    Dinner: 6:00PM-11:00PM

    Upcoming Event:

    Caruso will be hosting KIDSPIZZA Awards, a painting competition for children under 11 years old, starting from September 13, 2015 until November 29, 2015.

    A. 11:00AM to 3:00PM – Lunch at Caruso with Pizza Shape of Winnie the Pooh and other animals like the cat, fish, duck, etc. or their usual pizza and menu.
    B. Children who will participate in the competition have to give their three paintings made at home to the judge representing Galeria Astra.
    C. The painting will be submitted to three famous judge-painters. The declaration of winners will be on November 29, 2015 in Galeria Astra with special concert of children and famous testimonials.

    As prizes, winners will receive the following respectively:

    1st: PhP 10,000 + bonus for Hong Kong Disneyland with airplane ticket for three + one night in Disneyland Hotel
    2nd: PhP 7,000 + 3 tickets to KidZania
    3rd: PhP 5,000 + 2 tickets to KidZania
    4th: PhP 5,000 + 2 tickets to KidZania

    Free gifts will be given to all participants of the competition. 🙂

  • M Café Presents Sunday Boutique Brunch Buffet (Greenbelt 4, Makati City)

    M Café Presents Sunday Boutique Brunch Buffet (Greenbelt 4, Makati City)

    As you might have noticed, eat-all-you-can deals are so hot right now. Restaurants that serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a buffet setting are everywhere, and here goes Raintree Restaurants’ M Café’s Sunday Boutique Brunch, a fine go-to option for those who like to sleep in a little bit more on a Sunday morning. Shout out to weary night owls! 🙂 Finally, you can get a taste of a dreamy breakfast and lunch combination that the whole family can enjoy.

    Per my last visit, Museum Café in Greenbelt 4, Makati City still adapts an intimate interior, calm atmosphere, and good service. It’s a sleek and contemporary venue with a spacious design and live music adding to the dining experience, of which the crowning jewel is the food. Filipino, Continental, and Asian fare in the buffet are available from 10:00am to 2:30pm. Let’s get into it! 😀

    Review of M Café’s Sunday Boutique Brunch Buffet (Greenbelt 4, Makati City)

    Food: ★★★★★

    While the brunch buffet items are not exactly numerous as those of Vikings, M Café’s Sunday Boutique Brunch has something for everyone on the table, echoing “quality over quantity.” Included in the meal are appetizers, a main course, and desserts.

    Appetizers

    The appetizers section incorporate the Charcuterie, the Cheeseboard, the Raw Bar, the Salad Bar, the Bread Selection, the Omelette Station, and the Baked Items.

    With the different bright tastes and interesting mouth-feels of cheese (coconut cheese, gorgonzola, brie bridel, Parmesan, cilantro crusted cream cheese, fried garlic crusted cream cheese, and black peppercorn crusted cream cheese), I instantly became a convert. 🙂

    The rich and earthy flavors were incredible, and I was especially hooked with the depth of the cream cheeses’ creaminess. They must be quite aged as the decreased level of lactic acidity was apparent. The coconut cheese wasn’t bad either. It didn’t have that familiar saltiness of cheese, but it was a fine and unique type in its simplest form.

    The spiced tang of gourmet cured meats from the Charcuterie also packed a certain amount of wow factor. In each bite, the Jamon Serrano, Chorizo Iberico, Salchicon Extra, and Norweigan Smoked Salmon offered dueling textures—great to be eaten with bread. You won’t go wrong with anything from rye, sourdough, multi-grain, and focaccia.

    Aklan oysters, prawns, and New Zealand mussels from the Raw Bar were so fresh you could almost swear they were still swimming an hour prior arriving on your plate. Don’t forget to spritz lemons to add a zing before sending the little critters into your stomach.

    Main Course

    Main courses are prepared at the back in the kitchen, and one person can choose an entree following the a-la-carte style. I ordered the Grilled Chicken Tandoori (see below) to satisfy my craving for some Indian spice blend. As I’d hoped, the supremely tender and succulent chicken had a mixture of both smoked and hot paprika, giving a delicious and mildly spicy boost that was too intriguing to pass up. The garlic yogurt on the side made a great stand-in.

    U.S. Beef Belly Garlic Tapa – served with white rice, eggs, cherry tomato salsa and salted egg

    M Benedict – poached egg, hollandaise arugula, grilled cherry, jamon excellente

    Grilled Bone-in Pork Chop – topped with cinnamon apple, apricot compote, served with spiced pumpkin puree, harocts verts and organic carrots

    Beer Battered Fish and Chips – coleslaw, tartar sauce, mignonette, cocktail sauce

    Roasted Seafood Linguine – cilantro pesto, grilled seafood, fresh lemon

    Char-grilled U.S. Beef Burger – wild rocket, Swiss emmental, tomato jam

    Desserts

    Desserts consist of assorted pastries and cakes, fresh cut fruits and cereals. Among all, the Oreo Cheesecake and Green Tea Panna Cotta deserved most praise for me. Crumbly bits of chocolate added more texture to the otherwise boring cheesecake. Then again, it could have been better if the Oreo pieces were not limited to the top layer but were interspersed throughout. On the other hand, the lure of green tea has always been fascinating. This luxurious treat was ultra soft and smooth, with a minimal trace of bitterness.

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    By the end of our meal, I was too full to take another bite, so I spent the rest of our time chatting with friends and admiring the view feeling relaxed—a stunning end to a brunch that can only be described as exquisite. Price per adult is PhP 988+, while kids (12 years old and below) are charged PhP 550+ each. (Additional PhP 495 for all-you-can bubbly)

    Yeah, it’s not exactly cheap but it will be cool to live a little once in a while. When that time comes, know that the best way to a successful meal at Kabila / M Café’s Sunday Boutique Brunch Buffet is to come with a relatively large crew and order damn near everything on the menu for your main courses. 😛

    [schema type=”review” url=”http://www.facebook.com/raintreemcafe” name=”Kabila / Museum Café” description=”Ayala Museum Complex, Makati Avenue, corner Dela Rosa St., Makati City, Philippines” rev_name=”For inquiries, contact +632-757-3000, +632-757-6000, +632-391-4197″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-08-03″ user_review=”9″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”10″ ]

  • Vikings Luxury Buffet Features World Street Food in August 2015! #EatLikeAViking

    Vikings Luxury Buffet Features World Street Food in August 2015! #EatLikeAViking

    Truth be told, there aren’t many buffet restaurants in Metro Manila that satisfy like Vikings Luxury Buffet does. God bless the people behind the creativity of their dishes. And speaking of creative dishes, this coming August 2015, Vikings features “World Street Food” with varying kinds and presentation in each of its branches nationwide: By the Bay SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, SM Jazz Mall, SM City BF in Parañaque, SM City Marikina, SM Lanang Premier in Davao, and NIU by Vikings.

    Last Saturday, with blogger friends, I had a tasting session at Vikings SM Jazz Mall and enjoyed an incredible flow from appetizing bites at the start to desserts at the finish. Here’s a rundown, to give you a sneak preview. 🙂

    with Kat

    Vikings Luxury Buffet Features World Street Food in August 2015!

    Homemade chorizo patty and fried mantao bread are like a match made in heaven. The juicy and savory chorizo patty well complemented the fried mantou which had a fragrant crispy outer crust. No doubt, this Chori Burger from the Philippines with a twist is a modest reminder that you are in for a modern cuisine.


    Lightly battered, this Oyster Omelette from Singapore was a slightly different experience from the usual baked or grilled rendition as the crisp finish of flour mixture accompanied the soft and fresh oyster underneath the coating. I thought that adding a mayonnaise dip would further add richness to the taste.


    Time to face fears! We had Balut Deconstructed from the Philippines which was served in a rather unique fashion: in a typical shot glass. The beer battered duck embryo was topped with balut mousse and garnished with chicken floss and sliced albumen (bato).

    The duck’s embryo had some fried crispness to it and the texture of the balut mousse was excellently smooth like butter. To say it melts in your mouth would be an understatement. It’s so light you honestly won’t even know if it’s in your mouth. But it is. And it’s wonderful.


    Beef and Chicken Satay from Indonesia would easily make a lovely main standalone with a bowl of rice. The tender beef and chicken were served street food style and the peanut dipping sauce played a prominent role in making the satay taste a bit sweet and flavorful as if watered down with nice chunks of peanuts.


    Popiah from Malaysia consisted of braised jicama, tofu, shrimp and ground peanut spring rolls. The combination of ingredients and variation in texture were spot-on and did more than necessary to impress our palate. These fresh spring rolls looked almost like an art piece on its own. Paying attention to such intricate workmanship on the plate speaks volume about the chef’s culinary skills.


    One of Filipinos’ favorite snacks, Mango and Singkamas from the Philippines served with bagoong alamang (shrimp paste) remained a classic and true to taste. I just found the bagoong too salty for my liking. Water, please.

    The next entree was Bah Kut Teh (肉骨茶) from Singapore which I remember so well from local hawkers near where I used to live in Singapore. However, this soup by Vikings was cooked to suit Pinoys’ taste buds as it combined Singaporean, Malaysian, and Peranakan flavors without being intensely peppery and garlicky.

    The stock was simmered with meaty pork at length and produced from a complex broth of herbs and spices. While salinity on the soup was on the high side, the tenderness of the pork infused a refreshing touch to it that balanced out the dish.


    Topped with scrambled eggs and shrimps, the yellow noodles and thick rice vermicelli composing Hokkien Mee from Singapore were chewy, dense, and a little slippery with a slightly porous surface that fully absorbed the savory prawn broth. The best part? It had little bits of pork lard that get both crisp and melty. Yum!


    Jerk Chicken from Jamaica had a familiar warm spice aroma from spiced rub marination and it did pick up some smoky flavor on its deeply charred skin. The firm, sweet, and tart mango salsa as a topper provided a good contrast.


    It was my first time to come across Tamales and I was awestruck with its uniqueness. Boiled in a leaf wrapper, this popular Mexican dish was “Filipinized” and was completed with stuffed corn rice, shredded pork adobo, and garnished with salted egg and pork floss. As a well-rounded meal itself, the humble tamale tasted earthy and a bit spicy. It’s a must-try.


    To end our meal on a high note, for desserts, we had this fried dough pastry based snack called Churros served with rich chocolate coffee sauce. As a chocoholic, it was pretty much my duty to indulge here. Not too greasy, not too sweet, not too hard outside, and not too hollow inside, these churros were just perfect. You just can’t have one.

    The freshly sliced bananas in the Bananaque Pie were homey and straightforward with a little zing to it. There’s really something delightful about the luscious, creamy, and cool simplicity of the egg custard and fried plantain pie sweetened further with vanilla ice cream and dulce de leche. 🙂

    Wrap Up

    It seems that sky is really the limit when it comes to offering something new and exciting at Vikings Luxury Buffet. While these dishes will be available during dinner and weekends next month, I suggest you grab the chance! Prepare for a great multi-course “street-food-themed” meal with an unimpeachable roster of hits, with a few absolutely unforgettable food mixed in. 😀

  • Review of Japanese Bread and Pastries from Kumori Japanese Bakery (Philippines)

    Review of Japanese Bread and Pastries from Kumori Japanese Bakery (Philippines)

    From the humble Anpan first made in 1875, Japanese baking techniques and product lines have grown by leaps and bounds since.  Although baking was mostly a Western concept, Japanese artisan bakers had to add indigenous ingredients for the breads to appeal to local Japanese tastes.  In the spirit of this same artisanal Japanese tradition of baking craftsmanship, comes Kumori Japanese Bakery.

    Big in Japan and now in the Philippines, Kumori Japanese Bakery commits to offer natural, handmade, fresh and quality breads, cakes, and pastries imbued with true Japanese quality, culture, and tradition. Kumori uses only the finest ingredients from Japan, giving its breads unique flavors and textures. Every ingredient is wholesome and natural, so the fresh tastes and goodness shine through. I received a gift box from Kumori last week, and I’m pleased to share the details of what’s inside. 🙂 お楽しみください！

    What is Kumori?

    Kumori means “cloudy” in Japanese. However, instead of gray and gloom, Kumori represents all the sunshine and positivity that comes after the rain. Likewise, what Kumori Japanese Bakery creates are “comfort treats” with no artificial additives and preservatives.

    Review of Japanese Bread and Pastries from Kumori Japanese Bakery (Philippines)

    If you have ever in your life said, “this bread is good,” this Croissant by Kumori will melt your mind. It’s a flaky layered Danish pastry enriched with pure, premium European butter. After seeing fluffy layers with a stretch within while pulling it apart, I’m positive that the croissant was a good lure and an absolute hit with me. It was on the soft side, but the rich buttery taste still remained intact. I loved it and certainly felt more excited to try the others in the box. 🙂

    Salmon Bonito was the one I took as an afternoon snack in the office. It’s a soft bun filled with savory salmon filling, drizzled with home-made Teriyaki sauce and sprinkled with bonito flakes. While there’s no ridiculously large portion of sushi-grade salmon present, the round buns were great. Like eating a giant version of takoyaki (but stuffed with flaky salmon instead of octopus), this treat is going to sneak up on you. To be honest, it wasn’t love at first bite for me, but as the balance of flavors and textures gradually insinuated, I’ve grown to appreciate it—a lot! The salmon bonito is one-of-a-kind.

    Filled with matcha cream filling, the Soft Matcha Bun was a pleasantly decent mouthful of goodness. The matcha inside wasn’t too sweet and the bun gave a good contrast to the smooth cream. I thought this would go down well with a nice cup of green tea. 🙂

    Another delicate hand-crafted soft bread was the Fuwa-fuwa Cream Bun, filled with creamy egg custard and dusted with snow sugar powder on top. It did not disappoint as it’s not too sweet as well. The bun was super soft and almost impossible to resist!

    We saved the best for last. Kumori’s Signature Hanjuku Cheese was velvety, creamy, light and absolutely moist. It’s a half-baked cheese masterpiece original of Kumori made from premium cream cheese that’s truly best for melt-in-your-mouth moments. This should be in everyone’s must-try list when visiting Kumori Japanese Bakery. It was pure happiness wrapped in a small package.

    An easy winner for those who love Japanese cheesecakes, each piece of the Hanjuku Cheese can be finished in two bites. Aside from cheese, there’s also a chocolate cheesecake variant available. Komuri Japanese Bakery sells these per piece (at PHP48) or in a pretty box of five.

    Kumori has just set foot in the Philippines, and its first stores are located at the lower ground floor of Landmark Makati (just beside Bread Talk) and at the lower ground floor of SM Makati. Soon it will also open at the ground floor of Glorietta 2. If you love Japanese goodies, visit  Kumori Philippines on Facebook and follow its Instagram account for updates. 🙂

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  • Review of Dadding’s Kitchenette – Special Inihaw (Comembo, Makati City)

    Review of Dadding’s Kitchenette – Special Inihaw (Comembo, Makati City)

    Quality home-cooked style of food exists, and it’s here with Dadding’s Kitchenette. Opened last October 2014, this food establishment in Makati is the obvious move for your Filipino comfort food fix. Dadding’s cooks up delicious meals that pay homage to the owner’s culinary heritage in Pagsanjan province as well as his own craft. It has the formula down: food rich in flavor + authentic Pinoy taste + quick delivery + affordable prices. Via Zomato, Dadding’s Kitchenette sent two of their best-selling “Special Inihaw” dishes for me to try. In this post, we’re going to tackle them head on.

    Review of Dadding’s Kitchenette – Special Inihaw (Comembo, Makati City)

    Service: ★★★★★

    Dadding’s service is straightforward. You either dine in the restaurant or order food for delivery. For delivery requests, the food will be delivered for free on the same day or on a specified date and time with a minimum order of PhP 350. However, for now, deliveries are available only in the areas of Makati and BGC-Taguig business district. Operation schedule is from Mondays to Fridays at 6AM-10PM and Saturdays 8AM-8PM.

    Check out Dadding’s Kitchenette’s menu here:

    Food: ★★★★☆

    Dadding’s Special Inihaw:

    The tender and juicy Chicken BBQ (approx. 300g) (PhP 80) was grilled impeccably, maintaining an even balance of well-distributed barbeque sauce that makes for a clean and enjoyable eating experience. The flavor of the marinated seasoning was full of the BBQ taste. Each bite was neat and precise. Definitely get this specialty and go heavy on rice! 🙂 It’s the perfect food to bring during outings, get-togethers, and in-house events.

    The Inihaw na Tilapia sa Gata (approx. 250g) (PhP 90) is a good option for pescetarians and seafood lovers. The fish was moist and mild in taste, allowing bold flavors of the coconut sauce to shine. With a nice finish of real coconut milk, the coconut sauce was creamy and a little spicy. It was made from scratch (kakang gata)—and not from instant food packs. I just thought adding fresh herbs and mixed vegetables to the dish will form a nice contrast and present a more aromatic combination.

    Price for Value: ★★★★★

    On top of great food, prices of Dadding’s Kitchenette are pretty cheap as far as Filipino viands throughout the city go. They’re enough for everyone to go overboard and indulge in a meal costing less than PhP 100. The portion of each entree can be good for one to two hungry dudes to share. If there must be only two descriptions to remember about Dadding’s food, they are: simple and tasty. With that, price for value gets full stars. 🙂

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  • Review of Tapella by Gaudi (Greenbelt 5, Makati City)

    Review of Tapella by Gaudi (Greenbelt 5, Makati City)

    There’s quite an absence of good Spanish restaurants in my regular rotation lately, so when I received an invite to visit Tapella by Gaudi in Greenbelt 5, Makati to test out dishes by Executive Chef Robert Spakowski, I felt excited about Spanish cuisine again. 🙂 Tapella specializes in tapas and paella.

    It was interesting to learn that while Chef Robert looked totally like a foreigner (Polish-Kapampangan on his father’s side and Spanish-American-Lebanese-Chinese on his mother’s side), he speaks Filipino fluently without a weird accent. He shared that he was born and raised here in the Philippines and has earned his Diploma in Culinary Arts and Technology Management from the Center for Culinary Arts Manila (CCA).

    How did he become the executive chef in Tapella? The former executive chef of Tapella (his family friend) decided to return to Spain and asked if he can take her place. To prepare and equip himself better, Chef Robert took an intensive Grand Diplome in Spanish Culinary Arts course at the International Culinary Center in New York, USA and the rest, as they say, was history.

    Review of Tapella by Gaudi (Greenbelt 5, Makati City)

    Ambiance: ★★★★☆

    Tapella by Gaudi has been established since 2009. The rectangular dining room is well appointed and large enough, so getting a table should not be a huge pain in the ass, especially if you have reservation. Ambiance is pretty cozy, one that’s great for a date night or an amazing hangout with friends.

    At the back is a rack of wine bottles that serves as a good focus point of the interior design, versus muted brown walls bordering neutral beige that accentuates class.

    There’s also an al fresco setting which houses the bar, a change of pace from the inside. Grab a seat here to experience a more informal and chiller vibe magnified by the beautiful landscapes and garden in Greenbelt.

    Food: ★★★★☆

    I have a love-hate relationship with salads, and Tapella’s Mixed House Salad Drizzled With Special Dressing (Ensalada Tapella) (PhP 200) fell somewhere in between. Usually for me, salads are not exactly a can’t-miss-item from the menu, but it’s worth to mention that the ingredients of this house salad formed a good combination not just on the plate but also in the stomach. Mixed up with olives and corn kernels, the lettuce leaves were well seasoned with the dressing, ought to help you survive the meat and heavy rice dishes later.

    The Octopus with Paprika, Sea Salt, and Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Pulpo a la Gallega) (PhP 525) may look like a large order and intended for sharing between a group, but sometimes you need to overindulge a bit even for a party of two. As the star, the octopus was delicate and tasty, fork tender and not at all chewy.

    Fluffy and generous with filling, the Open Faced Omelette with Chorizo (Tortilla Abierta con Chorizo) (PhP 235) was wicked good, one of the best versions of omelette I’ve ever had.

    As something to whet the appetite, the Garlic Sauteed Shrimps (Gambas al Ajillo) (PhP 325) would be an excellent choice. It’s basically shrimps in garlic. What could go wrong? The shrimps tasted great and simple enough. I also noticed how the dishware was beautiful and meticulously selected for the course.

    Another appetizing dish was the tender and juicy Basque Chorizo Sausage (Chistorra Vasca) (PhP 235). The chorizo sausages in oil were packed in so much flavor that eating a piece will make you reach for some bread for plate cleanup.

    Next, we had Croquettes of Ham, Salami, and Mushroom (Croquettes Variadas) (PhP 175)—crispy turnovers with a variety of fillings. They looked great as finger food so I ditched the utensils to get proper-sized mouthfuls. Tapella’s croquettes were a bit salty and comforting wrapped into one.

    As pitch-black as coal, the Squid with Black Ink Batter (Calamares, el Bulli) (PhP 385) was cooked well, however I didn’t think there’s anything distinctly special to it other than how it looked differently from the regular fried squid in golden brown color. Simply put, there was no hint of complex flavor from the squid ink.

    Beef Salpicado, Chef’s Way (Salpicado a Mi Manera) (PhP 375) was oily but very delicious, so it would be hard to turn it down. I bet the chef used the juiciest morsel and used the choicest cut of beef for this.

    If there’s one item that you can order with confidence at Tapella by Gaudi, it’s their Prime Rib Grilled Villagodio Style (Chuleton de Villagodio) (PhP 300/100g). Arriving on a clay dish heated by a burner on the table, the certified prime angus beef that’s only speckled with sea salt and quickly seared to preferred doneness was a revelation. Yes, it was really good! For steak lovers, it can be impossible to eat it without making faces of satisfaction. This piece of meat hits home, a rightfully celebrated stroke of “steak genius.”

    Now, featuring the different kinds of paella…The Black Paella (Paella Negra) (PhP 595) was not the most outstanding, but it’s a special treat that can be best paired with gambas. I just thought that a variety of seafood to complement the squid ink would make a better contrast rather than chopped squid alone.

    Soft and risotto-like, Rice with Chicken and Vegetables, the Valencia Way (Arroz a la Valenciana) (PhP 450) came as a one-dish meal of poultry and veggies. For the most part, the bell peppers’ taste was responsible for the depth of flavor. Give it a shot if that sounds good to you. 

    Made with elements that create appealing color, Paella de Cocido (Cocido Paella) (PhP 400) was loaded with a good assortment of meat and vegetables as well. It’s a must-try, as it’s one of the national dishes of Spain.

    Out of all the paella we tasted, Chicken, Asparagus, Shrimp, and Manchego Cheese Paella (Arroz Manchego) (PhP 675) was the best! I’m all for seafood and veggies any day, and this rice dish blew my mind a bit—with cheese on top! I’m counting down the days till I can get another. 😛

    After tasting the previous winning paella, the Seafood Paella (Paella de Marisco) (PhP 600) failed in comparison. It was still good but not one I would be thinking about for days to come.

    For desserts, we had Tarta con Lave de Chocolate (PhP 150). It was sinful, with warmed rich chocolate oozing out of the cake. Checking all the criteria of a good chocolate lava cake, this was indeed calories worthy.

    Smooth and luscious, the Leche Flan (PhP 75) was equally enjoyable. It was creamy but still firm.

    Drawing contrast from the traditional leche flan, Bacon from the Sky (Tocino del Cielo) (PhP 75) from South of Spain was thicker and it was made with a whole bunch of egg yolks, sugar, and water (and not whole eggs, milk or cream as in leche flan).

    If you like cheesecake, go get the Tarta De Queso Dulce De Leche (PhP 150). A heavenly marriage flan and cheesecake, this dessert was so yummy that I could hardly resist the indulgence. 🙂

    We washed all the food down with cocktail drinks: Ronin Lychee Sangria (PhP 295) (sake with lychee) and Don Roberto Sangria (PhP 225) (red sangria with red wine and fruits that have been marinated for 24 hours). Both sangrias tasted bright, refreshing, and fruity, but I prefer the red over the white.

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    We came in for lunch and after the end of the meal, I can say that all the food we tried were solid and reasonably priced. Items on the improved menu are not a crazy departure from familiar Spanish plates but are just more interesting.

    Chef Robert has done a fantastic job with the restaurant and with his creative menu of culinary excellence. If you’re looking for some good Spanish comfort food in Makati, I suggest you hit Tapella by Gaudi right quick for a hearty pile of food with tons of different flavor going on.

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  • Review of Cantinetta (Power Plant Mall, Rockwell, Makati City)

    Review of Cantinetta (Power Plant Mall, Rockwell, Makati City)

    Cantinetta in Power Plant Mall, Rockwell is one of the restaurants that’s perfect for quiet romantic dinners, business meals, or simply winding down with premium wines. Coming from a home-style chain of restaurants, Cantinetta is inspired by the wine cellars in the estates of Italian noblemen, serving Italian cuisine. A short distance away from the heart of the business district in Makati, Cantinetta can keep you away from the chaos of the city and give you satisfying dishes for a reasonable price.

    Review of Cantinetta (Power Plant Mall, Rockwell, Makati City)

    Ambiance: ★★★★☆

    It did feel Italian when we entered Cantinetta. I could imagine Italian men in hats and cane conversing and sipping coffee while passing time playing cards here. Not a fast-food kind of environment, this place is impressively uncluttered, driving in quality-driven consumers. Fab tunes in the background complement the dining pleasure, while wooden furniture create a sense of history and casual warmth. Overall, Cantinetta’s interior was inviting and relaxing. It looked aged but well maintained. This place can be worth a support, provided it doesn’t get too crowded.

    Service: ★★★★★

    Other than good ambiance with slightly rustic feel, service was attentive and not overly intrusive. There was a certain air of easiness lingering somehow that would make you forget your troubles as you enjoy your meal. Wait time was fair, and the courses came out at an even pace. Severs were polite and treated us like we were guests in their home.

    Food: ★★★★☆

    For appetizers, we got some complementary bread served with liver patte and tomato, which I’m sure most hungry customers will appreciate. The bread was served warm. It was crunchy outside and had a chewy center.

    For the main, not ordering the signature Cantinetta Classica (PhP 480) when in Cantinetta should not count as an option. Baked with a good crumb structure and a crust that’s light and fresh, Cantinetta Classica was topped with Italian sausage, pepperoni, and minced beef. Each slice of this pizza achieved a glorious harmony. The Italian sausage was juicy with a nice spring to it; the minced beef had a resilience that’s mildly bouncy; and the pepperoni oozed with flavor with its savory aroma. All in all, the pizza was absolutely a winner.

    My dining partners of the night chose Fettucine Tartufo (PhP 550), which consisted of truffle cream sauce with parma ham. It’s both decadent and comforting. Even without eating the parma ham, I could taste its flavor in the pasta that’s for the record unquestionably delicious. It was like bacon, only without the oil.

    Next, I loved every bite of the Ravioli Al Funghi Porcini (PhP 540) and I almost did not want it to end. Cantinetta’s ravioli stuffed with porcini mushroom with truffle oil sauce left a strong mushroom-y taste in my mouth and this I regard as a sure-fire sign of greatness. Giving out the final push to make the entree brilliant, the truffle oil sauce delivered a much-needed brightness and moisture to the dish. Yummy!

    We thought our stomachs could not anymore accommodate desserts. But then one of us ordered Tiramisu (PhP 240), and we just could not say no! 😛 We shared the mascarpone coffee cake which came in a simple and balanced plating. Taste was excellent, like sponge cake soaked in espresso—moist and spongy. The slightly sweet cream cuts the richness, making it easier to eat without pause.

    The Panna Cotta (PhP 240) looked like leche flan with a creamy and solid texture of cheesecake. This custard cream in the cake was thick and rich and indulgent yet mercifully tempered on sweetness. 🙂

    Price for Value: ★★★☆☆

    In English, “Cantinetta” means a place to get great wine, great food and have a great time. Cantinetta in Rockwell exemplified a good context to the translation. It can be seen as an upscale lunch or dinner spot that puts out some good food to the table. Food prices can be quite a splurge, but for a special occasion, they’re worth it. If ever you get the chance to visit, be sure to have desserts in the end. They may add a whole lot to the bill but trust me on this: they’re more than satisfactory. 🙂

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    Operating hours: 7:30 am to 12am

    Other branches:
    G/F The Podium Adb Avenue Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong | (02) 477-2522
    Burgos Circle, Forbes Town Center, 29 St. Rizal Drive, The Fort, Taguig City | (02) 403-5220
    Bldg. 660 Camp John Hay, Baguio City, Benguet | (074) 442-4819