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Category: Outside PH

  • Review of P.F. Chang’s China Bistro (Mall of the Emirates, Dubai)

    Review of P.F. Chang’s China Bistro (Mall of the Emirates, Dubai)

    We chanced upon P.F. Chang’s China Bistro twice in Dubai: first in Dubai Mall and second in Mall of the Emirates. When craving for Chinese food struck after eating Mediterranean food for a week in the Middle East, we knew we had to try this place! Manila has a great food scene, but it’s just too bad that we didn’t have the chance to experience P.F. Chang’s here as it closed its doors here years ago.

    P.F. Chang’s is one of America’s favorite Asian-inspired chain restaurants. There’s plenty on the menu to choose from! It’s great that the server gave his best recommendations for us as we were first-time visitors, and we weren’t disappointed. Quite on the contrary, we were definitely pleased with all our meal.

    Review of P.F. Chang’s China Bistro (Mall of the Emirates, Dubai)

    Ambiance:

    The atmosphere was pleasant, and I liked the dimness of the dining area as it gives off an intimate feel. The group of diners were made up of shoppers who dropped in for a quick bite, families with children, and an equal balance of locals and expatriates who were familiar with the US-based chain. We didn’t have to be queued to be seated.

    The place was huge! There were giant horses at the entrance, apparently a signature of P.F. Chang’s China Bistro across its branches. Further inside, there were murals on the walls and decors that show an oriental design. The temperature was slightly chill, enough to combat the heat outside.

    Service:

    The waiter explained his food recommendations in details and gave us an honest review of what to expect–like we could almost taste the food based on descriptions. He must be trained really well as this obviously showed in the way in his confidence and knowledge. We were well taken care of all throughout our stay. Great service = great experience!

    Food:

    The Mongolian Beef and Dynamite Shrimp are winners, and these are two dishes to keep in mind. Mongolian beef (77.70 AED) in sweet soy glaze was served as a huge plate of flank steak. It was tender, packed with flavor and complemented by the garlic and snipped green onions in the mix. Did I mention delicious? It was, 100%.

    A fan of savory heat? The Dynamite Shrimp (8 pcs for 59.85 AED, 4 pcs for 32.55 AED) is a must-try. In a glass martini, the fried shrimps were tossed in their zesty sauce—a name that totally undersells its crack-level appeal. Here’s an Instagram post I shared:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BiYutbmH2nj/?taken-by=rochkirstin

    For our drinks, we shared a big pitcher of refreshing watermelon with lime cocktail (non-alcoholic). It was perfect for summer, with the right punch of sweet and tart. Its fruity taste was great to cleanse the palate.

    Price for Value:

    Out of all the places we visited in Dubai and with our constant search for Chinese food, I can say that this restaurant is a stellar destination where you can enjoy Chinese cooking with a contemporary twist. The spectacular tastes of P.F. Chang’s dishes, superb service from an amazing staff, and the beautiful place add up to an expensive experience but worth it. We were shocked though at the cost of the drink (around 64 AED or PhP 900) since it wasn’t shown on the menu but was just promoted in one of their promo stands set on the table.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.pfchangs.com/” name=”P.F. Chang’s China Bistro” rev_name=”Ground Level, Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, Al Barsha, Dubai” author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2018-05-25″ user_review=”4.8″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”5″ ]

  • Review of Studio Masr Mediterranean Grill Restaurant (Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi)

    Review of Studio Masr Mediterranean Grill Restaurant (Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi)

    After our tour in Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, we went around Yas Mall looking for a restaurant for lunch. Studi Masr’s food on the menu looked the most interesting and appetizing at that time, so we decided it was the place to be. It’s a break from burgers, hotdogs, fries, fried chicken, and typical comfort food other adjacent restaurants offered.

    Studio Masr Mediterranean Grill Restaurant is a film-production themed restaurant inspired by Studio Masr, a leading Egyptian movie-production studio. Some of the dishes were inspired by past movies and reflect the names of the historic films produced by Studio Masr. The Mediterranean grill offers the most recognized dishes and collective flavors from Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan and Saudi Arabia. It has 25 branches in Egypt and 1 in Saudi Arabia.

    Review of Studio Masr Mediterranean Grill Restaurant (Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi)

    Ambiance:

    Specializing in Egyptian, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cuisine, Studio Masr Mediterranean Grill Restaurant’s interior was decorated with things which reminded us of Egypt like the photos of Egyptian films and film stars, a nod to the iconic Egyptian film studio the restaurant is named after. The restaurant was pretty cozy inside and seemed really laid-back.

    Service:

    We were surprised that the cooks here, waiters, and the reception staff were all Filipinos, and they were more in shock than us when they hear us spoke in Filipino. 🙂 We obviously didn’t look the part. Service was amicable and prompt. Everyone was enthusiastic in serving food and following our orders.

    Food:

    The Studio Masr menu is centered on charcoal grill kebab items such as marinated beef, lamb, chicken and seafood. We asked for the best-selling items, since it was hard to choose from the many selections on the menu. The staff quickly pointed to their new dish, Meat Balls Fatteh (AED 53), and Ameer El Intekam (AED 49) which is basically all the grilled meat served in a dish so we can try them all in one go.

    The Meat Balls Fatteh was rich, filling, and luscious, although I wasn’t a fan of its strong aftertaste. Served with fried Lebanese bread, the dish was presented as fried eggplants covered with yogurt and chopped meatballs. It came stuffed with an insanely meaty and savory red sauce. The meatballs were plump, juicy and so tender a spoon can pass right through them with almost no resistance. I was satisfied and full after eating just two piece, leaving Louie happy to finish all the rest. 😉

    The mixed grill was an ample offering of grilled meat and chicken served with oriental rice with nuts, grilled vegetables, French fries, and Halaby bread. All the meat were seasoned beautifully and each one had a delicious distinct texture and flavor with a good kick of spices. The oriental rice was sweet, earthy, and aromatic. It was versatile, tasting great when paired with any grilled meat from the platter.

    Price for Value:

    Food prices were steep but it was a wonderful splurge. Consider Studio Masr Mediterranean Grill Restaurant having a modest price for value, especially if you’re a foodie and the type to take interest in tasting and trying food flavors outside your comfort zone. Their casual Mediterranean fare is as good as it gets! With quality food, pleasant crew, and charming interior, it’s easy to tell that this restaurant has a group of steady and stable patrons who keep coming back.

    [schema type=”review” name=”Studio Masr Mediterranean Grill Restaurant ” description=”Inside Yas Mall, Al Wasl Road | Box Park, Dubai, United Arab Emirates” rev_name=”For inquiries, call +971 4 385 5883″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2018-05-13″ user_review=”4.3″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”5″ ]

  • Review of Kaleidoscope Buffet Restaurant (Atlantis The Palm, Dubai)

    Review of Kaleidoscope Buffet Restaurant (Atlantis The Palm, Dubai)

    Kaleidoscope is a five-star buffet restaurant in Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. This area at the Ambassador Lagoon is only accessible to guests staying at the hotel and those visitors with reservations. Very exclusive! We’re glad we had the help of our travel agency to book us a meal which allowed us to experience a lavish lunch with extensive varieties of local and international cuisine. We felt special in this lively atmosphere and were actually one of the first ones who entered. You know who’s excited…and hungry! Here we were welcomed to a gastronomic escapade around the world, right after we toured Aquaventure. It’s certainly a meal to remember.

    Review of Kaleidoscope Buffet Restaurant (Atlantis The Palm, Dubai)

    Ambiance:

    Kaleidoscope is a paradise for food lovers. Your eyes will feast on the rich tapestry of colors and flavors in the luxurious restaurant interior. This restaurant has a fantastic ambiance, with buffet stations and tables overflowing with the good stuff. Each one is decorated according to the cuisine being served. It sets a vibe that’s perfect for a family meal or a dine-out with friends. There’s also an open interactive kitchen with live cooking stations where chefs prepare food on that spot and you can expect food that’s fresh. The theme centers on the sea, so guests can watch the stunning exotic marine life at the Kaleidoscope’s aquarium gallery.

    Service:

    At the reception counter, we presented a printed voucher that’s valid on the date and time specified. The staff quickly ushered us to our table and we began walking around the restaurant to get our food, while other diners still patiently waited to be seated. The restaurant was very busy but not too congested. We could easily call the attention of waiters and they were quick to respond to requests. Great service overall!

    Food:

    We were suitably impressed by the diverse range of dishes available. There’s a wide selection of salads and sauces, condiments, homemade organic and spelt breads, carving station chaffing dishes, anti pasti, pasta, pizza, lunch bites sandwiches, selection of cold mezzeh, mussels sauteed to your preferences, soups, cheese, noodles, dim sum, and pastries. Needless to say, as you can see in the pictures below, there seems to be no enough room on your plate or in your stomach to try it all, so it’s best to choose wisely in order of preference.

    Our favorites are the Asian food selections (especially Chinese), fresh seafood, mouth-watering roasts, and sumptuous desserts. There are also lavish Arabian, Persian, Italian, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisine, carveries, and delicate sushi to suit everyone’s appetite.

    Price for Value:

    International lunch buffet at the Kaleidoscope costs AED 180 per person excluding beverages on weekdays (Sunday – Thursday) and AED 225 per person including water and soft drinks on weekends (Friday & Saturday). It’s equivalent to around PhP 3,166.72, which is on the pricey side. However, considering its value and the fact that it is located in one of the most elite five-star hotels in Dubai, making a reservation and dining in the Kaleidoscope Buffet Restaurant is a solid choice.

    If you’re visiting Dubai, make sure to plan your meal ahead and check in on time! You won’t be disappointed with their offerings and your experience here will be worth the price to pay for sure. #YOLO;)

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.atlantisthepalm.com/restaurants/kaleidoscope” name=”Kaleidoscope Buffet Restaurant” description=”Crescent Dr, Atlantis The Palm Hotel, Dubai, United Arab Emirates” author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2018-05-05″ user_review=”4.8″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”5″ ]

  • Where to Eat: 12 Best Restaurants We Tried in the Balkans

    Where to Eat: 12 Best Restaurants We Tried in the Balkans

    With all the eating we’ve done during our travel to the Balkans, I was 100% certain I would be gaining weight at tremendous speed, faster than I ever have in my life—and I was right (secretly hoped not). In 11 consecutive days, we visited at least two restaurants a day and were served with appetizing meals complete with a starter, a heavy main course, and yummy dessert. We could have waved a white flag, out of fullness, each time. In any case, we thank Mulan Travel Service Corp. for having done a great job in selecting restaurants with a sophisticated edge serving up delicious food that’s pretty hard not to love. In this post, I’m sharing the 12 best restaurants we tried in the Balkans (Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina). 🙂

    Where to Eat: 12 Best Restaurants We Tried in the Balkans

    1. Vila Prešeren

    Veslaska Promenada 14 SI-4260 Bled, Slovenia
    +386 4 5752510

    A sensational place for a contemporary, light cuisine with a touch of the Mediterranean, Vila Prešeren’s à la carte restaurant offers salad platters, risottos, pastas, fish and meat dishes, grilled dishes and desserts accompanied with top-quality wines from the best Slovenian and foreign wine cellars. We had amuse bouche, risotto with octopus, shrimps, and parmesan lollipop, beef tagliata made with creamy potatoes with tartufata and cabernet reduction, and the famous Bled cream cake. Overall, Vila Prešeren can be seen as a civilized oasis where refined fare are served by warm and considerate waitstaff.

    2. Restaurant Bevanda

    Zert ul. 8, 51410, Opatija, Croatia
    +385 51 493888

    Restaurant Bevanda is one of those places that’s perfect for a tough-to-please crowd. The restaurant’s distinct interior design looks contemporary and multi-functional. Facilities can accommodate both private and business events. Focused on pure and discernible food aromas, dishes were as classic as the decor. We had risotto with mussels and Kvarner scampi and prawns, sea bass fillet grilled chard on the Diamatian way, and millefoglie with forest fruit. If you’re missing the white-tablecloth dining rooms of days past, this restaurant in a resort in Opatija must be something you’ll fancy.

    3. Restaurant Foša

    Ul. kraija Dmitra Zvonimira 2, 23420, Zadar
    +385 23 314421

    A Mediterranean restaurant in Zadar, Foša presented to us dishes that walked the line between approachable and elegant. Dinner started with the cold trio (octopus carpaccio, fresh fish carpaccio, daimatian bruschetta), followed with a fillet of sea bass with aromatic herbs gratin, oven-baked, and potatoes sauteed in olive oil, and ended wonderfully with chocolate lava cake. Ambiance was lovely, especially at nighttime. This is a space that works for both special-occasion meals and a casual drop-in.

    4. Seoska kuća Čilipi

    Bistrače 2, 20213, Čilipi, Croatia
    +385 20 771 163

    Seoska kuća Čilipi in Croatia is located in a rural area about an hour from Dubrovnik. All of the food and wine served at the farmhouse were grown by them. Meat lovers will be glad to savor their first-rate grilled meat (sausages, chicken and pork), while style-conscious diners will appreciate the rustic setting the most. This restaurant delivered an unforgettable meal for us. Wine made some of us feel “happier” than normal, if you know what I mean. 😛 Red and white wine were best paired with homemade cheese, prosciutto, and olives.

    5. Restaurant Adriatic Grašo

    Uvala Baluni 21000 Split, Croatia
    +385 (0) 21 398560

    Restaurant Adriatic Grašo is my favorite among all the restaurants in this list. 🙂 The spectacular view can’t be beat. Located on Sustipan cliff at the foot of Marjan hill (10 minutes walk from the city center of Split), this spot is known for the terrific way it handles seafood. Our appetizer, Couver Sea Fantasty, was no exception. It comprised of six different “swimmingly fresh” carpaccios on a bed of fresh salad. Scampi Cream Soup was also prepared simply and beautifully. For mains, we had white fish, calamari, and grilled scampi. Exquisite cooking and ambiance to burn define this date-night nexus. The mood was quite intimate and classy.

    6. Restaurant Galion

    Suranj bb, Kotor Municipality 85330, Montenegro
    +382 32 325054

    Galion in Montenegro is a must for seafood lovers. Their kitchen does its magic well. We enjoyed a parade of cold adriatic seafood and fish delicacies, satisfying squid ink risotto with sepia and crispy parmesan chips, and lemon cream with crispy meringue and tart crumble. There was a whole lot of wow from the combo of all these seemingly disparate flavors adorned with the Mediterranean soul. For its interior, Galion features aquatic flourishes and wooden tones enhancing an already sleek dining experience that is unmistakably high end–yet worth every penny.

    7. Restaurant Proto

    Siroka ul. 1, 20000, Duborvnik, Croatia
    +385 20 323 234

    Dinner at Proto Fish Restaurant was a grand affair, full of the kind that characterizes Croatian fine dining. Every mouthful proved to be a rewarding adventure. For starters, we had Adriatic salad with scampi, melon, and avocado and fisherman’s soup en tasse. The star of our meal was the Gratinated Lobster Tail “Ponta Ostra” (risotto with wild rice, truffles and mushrooms), and hazelnut parfait for dessert absolutely hit the spot. Brilliance doesn’t come cheap, and even though a turn in this dining room might be the most expensive thing, it’s worth splashing out for a meal here any time of day.

    8. Restaurant Poklisar

    Ribarnica ul. 1, 20000, Duborvnik, Croatia
    +385 20 322 176

    When a salad just won’t do, getting to the meat of the matter with heaping platters of protein is always a nice move. At Restaurant Poklisar where dishes have a great depth of flavor, we had mussels buzzara, a delectable serving of visually striking tenderloin (insanely good), and ended with sweet panna cotta for dessert. The flavors were comforting; it will only take a few bites to see why this restaurant has so many regulars. Along with its enticing old European atmosphere, Poklisar has exemplary servers who stayed on their toes to ensure diners leave vowing to visit again. Trivia: In Dubrovnik dialect, the name Poklisar translates to ‘’an ambassador.’’ Truly, they’re an ambassador of good taste and remarkable moments.

    9. Marco’s Bar and Food

    Ul. Korčulanskog statuta 1214, 20260, Korčula, Croatia
    +385 98 275701

    It’s not often that you get to travel to a restaurant by boat. We did at Marco’s Bar and Food, a welcoming wine bar and tavern situated at one of the best Korčula Old Town locations, right at the beautiful Trg Antuna and Stjepana Radica square. This place served one of the best food we tasted during our tour: soup, homemade pasta with lobster, and mascarpone cream with cookie crumble and wild berry coulis. Enlivened with modern presentation for great style and flair, the pasta with lobster was the most indulgent. A few bites, and you’ll realize the chef’s works of art taste as good as it looked.

    10. Restaurant Bota Šare

    Marina Drzica 1, Ston, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia
    +385 20 754 482

    In an area with a dearth of good dining options in Dubrovnik, Restaurant Bota Šare is one that’s satisfying. Can you believe that two old dusty books with recipes found in the basement of the owner’s home were actually the foundation of all recipes for Bota Šare’s dishes? Their chefs find inspiration in those books to master their culinary art. As a first-timer here, it’s best to try the signature platters. Both the Mixed Bota Platter (daimatian smoked ham, cheese, fish pate, tuna salad, shellfish salad fish carpaccio, marinated fish, seafood risotto) and the Bota Mixed Fish Platter (tuna broshette, white fish file, grilled calamari, bread crumbed mussels, fried smelts with vegetables) were well-executed. The luscious combination of ingredients in each platter won’t just take you to a different block; it will knock you out of this world! For a sweet ending, we had cream caramel. Oh, it was divine!

    11. Restaurant Gallo

    Ul. Andrije Hebranga 34, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
    +385 1 4814014

    If you are looking for true continental and coastal Croatian cuisine, Gallo is the place. It’s only a few minutes of walking distance from Zagreb’s greatest cultural assets (the National Theatre, Mimara Museum, University Library, and Academy of Arts and Science). With the homey and classic ambiance, we felt like queens even though we weren’t dressed for the evening. Fish soup set the right mood for a decent meal. The seafood pasta though wasn’t cooked adequately, just south of al dente.

    12. Restaurant Oxbo Steak (Restaurant of Hotel DoubleTree by Hilton)

    Ul. Grada Vukovara 269A, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
    +385 1 6001 914

    The “too much of a good thing can be wonderful” philosophy seems to be the general premise at Restaurant Oxbo Steak. Our dining experience here can be summed up with the in-love emoji. The food was pretty solid, bordering on mind-blowing in terms of taste and character. Much to my delight, I can still vividly remember nodding while eating, as a sign of approval. The carrot and ginger soup tasted healthy and indulgent, and the Istrian Ravioli with black truffles, cream, and proschiutto was hearty and perfectly seasoned. As for the main, their strip loin steak with vegetable puree on the side and orange and brandy demi glace was decadent. Finishing the bourbon chocolate cake and raspberry sorbet was not a problem. It was so good! We didn’t have to battle over who gets what, because everyone got his/her own share of these marvelous entrees. ♥

    All photos were taken using Fujifilm XT2 + 14mm lens.

    [schema type=”review” name=”Where to Eat: 12 Best Restaurants We Tried in the Balkans” description=”This post lists the top 12 best restaurants we tried in the Balkans in April 2017. The restaurant visits were prearranged and booked by Mulan Travel Service Corp. in the Philippines.” author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2017-05-26″ ]

  • Top 10 Korean Restaurants and Cafes We Tried in Seoul, South Korea

    Top 10 Korean Restaurants and Cafes We Tried in Seoul, South Korea

    Food tripping in South Korea where food is mostly tasty and spicy is a joyous dining experience. Whether it’s a formal restaurant, a casual one, or just in the streets, the visceral thrill of trying out Korean food right at the heart of Seoul is downright enjoyable. With the many places we explored, we found out that there’s much more to Korean cuisine than kimchi and bulgogi. Next time you’re going to Korea, here are some of our restaurant  and food suggestions for you to consider. 🙂

    Top 10 Korean Restaurants and Cafes We Tried in Seoul, South Korea

    1. VIPS Barbecue at Incheon International Airport

    We’re not fans of ordering packed food in the airplane. Hence, upon arrival at the Incheon International Airport, hunger struck intensely. There are plenty of food joints in the airport, but VIPS BBQ & Salad was closest to the arrival hall and the menu looked most attractive. VIPS Barbecue appealed as a hole-in-the-wall restaurant but it’s a gem. We ordered Seoul Rice—a mixture of rice, eggs, vegetables, meat, and seaweeds. Taste was a combination of sweet, savory and a little spicy.


    2. Han’s Deli in Myeongdong

    After about two hours of travel from the airport to our hotel in Myeongdong, we hunted down food again and discovered Han’s Deli (한스델리) in Jongno-gu. Han’s Deli is known as the “most celebrated deli” in Korea. Its first humble steps date back to 2004. The menu is Western with an Asian-Korean twist, lots of pasta, pizza, salads, tonkatsu stuffed with cheese and sweet potato. Portions are large and are good for sharing. Prices are reasonable by Korean standards.


    3. Gogungddurak Museum Shop and Cafe

    On the next day, we looked forward to watch the epic Sumunjang (Royal Guard) Changing Ceremony in the Gyeongbokgung Palace only to find out that it was cancelled that day because of the rain. What’s more sad was that we left the hotel early in the morning without having breakfast. Gogungddurak Museum Shop and Cafe was recommended by one of the guardsmen of the palace and we were relieved when it’s just a few steps away. This cafe is a must-try because food and drinks are made and served according to the Royal Recipe! We tried the Buckwheat Crepe and Goldongban (Bibimbap) and drank jeho-tang, one of the drinks that the emperor gives to retainers in the fifth day of the fifth month.


    4. Yoogane in Myeongdong

    When in Yoogane, there’s no better food to order than Chicken Galbi with Mozzarella Cheese. Tender chicken meat marinated in spicy sauce and rice were prepared and cooked onto the huge pan on our table right in front of our eyes. It’s hard to go wrong with fried rice, seaweed, and cheese. We absolutely loved this power combo dish! I hope we’ll also have Yoogane again in Manila (it closed some months back). The branch closest to Myeongdong Station is open from 10:00 am to 1:00 am. The branch furthest from Myeongdong Station is open from 10:45 am to 12:00 am.

    5. Asian Family Restaurant Dongmoon in Nami Island

    Located in BAPLEX, center plaza of Nami Island, Asian Family Restaurant Dongmoon is a halal certified restaurant which serves more than 30 varieties of Korean, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Malaysian, Indonesian, Singaporean, and Vietnamese food, using only the freshest ingredients every day. We ate Noodles with Black Soybean Sauce and Bulgogi with Rice. When it’s cold outside and every food you can think of seems too heavy or rich, these marvelous bowls of comfort are your safest bet. Both were good enough to satisfy our palate. My sister was happy to finally taste authentic black noodles she usually sees in Korean television series. 🙂


    6. Shao Long (少龍) Chinese Pub in Myeongdong

    There’s a lot of delicious gimbap rolls and bibimbap restaurants to go to in Myeongdong, but the lines are long, the tables are full, and the diners are often drunk and loud. There’s no better place to feed us on a cold and late night out for dinner but Shao Long (少龍) Chinese Pub, which was only three stores away from our hotel.

    While ambiance and interior design aren’t much of a looker, food deserved a thumbs up. The Spicy Fried Rice and Gimbap were good, not greasy, and did not leave us feeling heavy afterwards. Prices, as you can see on the menu below, will not put your wallet in danger. It’s also worth to note that there was only one staff who welcomed us in, the same staff who took our orders, cooked the food, served it and handed us the bill. Neat!


    7. Korean Food Court inside Folk Museum, Lotte World

    Lotte World has a wide variety of dining choices but we opted to have lunch in one of the restaurants in the Korean Folk Museum for a more traditional Korean fare. This food court in the museum looked like Singapore’s Food Republic. We had Beef Rib Stew, Korean-style Raw Beef Mixed Rice, and Octopus Rice. At first we felt a little squeamish about the thought of eating octopus. But guess what? Out of the three, we loved it the most. The octopus’ texture fell somewhere between soft and chewy.  The raw beef, on the other hand, beckoned an interesting riff on the usual bulgogi rice. It was blissfully meaty with an amazing depth of flavor.

    8. Paris Croissant Cafe in Palace Station

    Near the palaces, the all-day Paris Croissant Cafe in Palace Station revolves around the fresh, artisan breads and pastries that demand attention. Especially if you love bread, picking a favorite anything from this cafe is like picking a favorite child: it’s impossible. The buttery and flaky pineapple pastry was beyond good. The sausage with curry filling was also a hit. These are just what you need to start (or end) a day. 🙂 Paris Croissant also has a branch in Incheong International Airport.

    9. San Jin Grill Restaurant in Myeongdong

    Food tripping in Seoul won’t be complete without Samgyeopsal. We’re lucky that Korean restaurants specializing in grilled pork belly BBQ are literally beside and across our hotel. 😀 We went to San Jin Grill Restaurant in Myeongdong for dinner to celebrate our friend’s birthday. Our meal consisted of thick and fatty slices of pork belly meat that’s seasoned well. Accompaniments consumed included lettuce, sliced raw garlic, onions, and aged kimchi. The thin slices of marinated pork were perfectly tender with unique and bold spiciness. We couldn’t get enough! 🙂

    10. Four Seasons 100% Milk Snowflake House

    After a feast day of epic proportions, don’t forget to try Korean desserts. We capped off our last night in Myeongdong with Injeolmi Bingsu, the best-selling choice of the house. When faced with a sinful treat like this, solo dining can be a pain. The Injeolmi Bingsu is topped with almond slices, pumpkin seeds, rice cakes, soybean powder, and a great big pile of shaved ice. What’s intriguing was that when the ice started melting, the Injeolmi powder turned chewy. The condensed milk furthermore made each spoonful luxuriously smooth and tasty. Patbingsu is a cool dessert that’s substantial without being too rich. With all its different components, it won’t bore your taste buds for sure. 😉

    Wrap Up

    With an empty stomach and strong resolve, you can fill up on must-eat Korean food in Seoul where food prices don’t have to blow your budget. Take your friends along on a culinary adventure, and depending how much you devour, you can get away with spending less than $30 a head all day. Home-style Korean options shine the brightest for my liking, but ultimately, whether you’re in the mood for barbecue, a vat of kimchi soup, or even a bibimbap-esque salad, there are certainly restaurants in almost every corner that can efficiently and happily satisfy your Korean food craving.

    [schema type=”review” name=”Top 10 Korean Restaurants and Cafes We Tried in Seoul, South Korea” author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2017-02-21″ ]

  • Top 2 Restaurants We Recommend When in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

    Top 2 Restaurants We Recommend When in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

    Where to eat in Vietnam? One of the things we enjoy most about traveling is discovering and tasting the local cuisine and specialties of the place. When in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, we tried dining at many Asian restaurants, and two among the best recommended ones are Quan An Ngon 138 and Saigon Steak 123. It’s a shame that I could only name a couple, and this is largely because we realize we’re not huge fans of Vietnamese cuisine. In any case, you can’t go wrong with these mainstays if you want tasty, comforting fare with a pleasing mix of traditional and modern at cheap prices. 🙂

    Top 2 Restaurants We Recommend When in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

    Quan An Ngon Restaurant

    Opposite the entrance to the Reunification Palace, Quan An Ngon 138 is a large restaurant located on Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street where we enjoyed a very good authentic Vietnamese meal. It was our tourist guide who directed us at this place and he’s right when he said it’s a good option for those seeking a bite to eat before or after visiting the palace. We were seated in the open-air format, with solid wooden tables, interesting handmade decors, and nice outdoor plants.

    Stepping inside the restaurant, we saw that Quan An Ngon Restaurant looks like one of those 18th century Vietnamese houses, one for the elites, no less. Walls are adorned with paintings and decorations.  Different stations prepare different kinds of food on the spot, and guests can observe them while cooking and preparing. The food selection is extensive and the quality is not bad. For those who like to taste local Vietnamese food in a wonderful and relaxing ambiance, this is the place! 🙂

    Quan An Ngon 138 is where the holy grail of pho awaits. This no-nonsense Vietnamese joint really does cater to a lot of pho fans. We gulped down satisfying noodle soups with rich and flavorful broth and fresh and appealing vegetables. With springy noodles and fresh bright herbs, the Chicken Noodle Soup and Beef Noodle Soup were aromatic and full-bodied. They’re the perfect food for chasing away the doldrums of winter, except there’s no winter in Vietnam. Temperature was just the same as in Manila.

    The Vietnamese Fried Spring Rolls were heavenly. Filled with thinly sliced savory pork, cabbage, glass noodles, and carrots, these crispy deep-fried spring rolls were far more complex in flavor and texture than the usual Shanghai spring rolls I know. The food presentation also won my heart. 🙂

    Address: 138 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street | District 1, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam
    Phone: +84 8 3825 7179

    Saigon Steak 123 – European Steakhouse

    On our way to Ben Thanh Market, we thought of stopping by at a local restaurant for some refreshments as we were tired of touring around the famous landmarks of Ho Chi Minh City. Saigon Steak 123 – European Steakhouse caught our attention since its menu showed specialties of European and Vietnamese food. The menu emphasizes on wagyu steaks, hamburgers, and pasta, but we only tried local items.

    The atmosphere was romantic and cozy. This place is worth the splurge when you want to impress someone on a date out. Service was superb and the staffs spoke English relatively well (better than most locals we met on the streets).

    For dinner, we ordered the Fresh Spring Rolls which consisted of pork, prawn, vegetables, rice vermicelli, and other ingredients wrapped in Vietnamese rice paper and served with dipping sauce. The veggies along with herbs were crisp and they were neatly packaged in a deliciously chewy-soft wrapping that we snatched up and ate with our hands. The pieces were refreshingly cool and just great for a light meal.

    For something out of the ordinary, we ordered the Vietnamese Pancake and thought it’s good but quite oily. It was served with coconut milk-flavored crepe made out of rice and topped with shrimps with shelves on and slivers of fatty pork. A lot like a crêpe, the Vietnamese pancake was thin and slightly crispy with airy and translucent texture. I enjoyed it very much. Yum! 🙂

    Address: 123 le Loi, District 1 Hcmc | 123 le Loi, District 1 Hcmc, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
    Phone: 8 3914 0747

    Click here to read about the top 10 tourist attractions we visited in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam.

  • Top 5 Restaurants We Recommend When in Cambodia

    Top 5 Restaurants We Recommend When in Cambodia

    Life went by so fast in the past few weeks. I barely have the time to sit down and reflect on lessons I learned by far, yet I made a promise to myself to blog about the top five restaurants we tried in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, Cambodia before 2015 ends, else the details might just go to oblivion. So, here it goes.

    Since we came with a packaged tour itinerary, most of our meals were already prearranged and we did not have a hard time finding places to eat. There were time when we had free days though, and these were when we decided to check out the city’s best-rated restaurants (according to TripAdvisor) by ourselves. We rode tuk-tuks, asked the locals for directions, and eventually found our way through. If you’re a foodie, you may also find this list helpful. 🙂

    Top 5 Restaurants We Recommend When in Cambodia

    1. Haven Training Restaurant

    HAVEN Training Restaurant offers just the normal kind of food and not some unique Cambodian delicacy, but what it sets it apart from others is that it works as a non-religious social enterprise and a training restaurant for vulnerable young adults from orphanages and safe shelters, as well as underprivileged young adults from very rural poor areas.

    The people who serve food here are mostly young, and HAVEN supports their transition from institution to real world, giving them a chance to step out of the poverty cycle. The trainees are also provided with protected and guided shared housing, meals, medical care and a monthly training allowance. Furthermore we offer them English and computer lessons.

    With regard to the food, HAVEN Training Restaurant in Siem Reap makes really good food matched with an appealing presentation. The place was packed at the peak of lunch hour. We did not come with a reservation but were lucky enough to score one small table in one corner. All the tables were spread out in a lovely garden setting, making for a memorable and romantic experience.

    Fish Fillet with Green Mango · $8.00


    Cordon Bleu (Chicken) · $8.00

    See its menu.

    Address: Chocolate Rd, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia
    Phone:+855 78 342 404
    Hours: Open today · 5:30 – 9:30 PM

    2. The Sugar Palm Restaurant & Bar

    The Sugar Palm has branches both in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. We visited the one in Siem Reap for dinner just before we went to the airport on our last day in Cambodia. This place was designed and purposefully built as a large wooden Khmer-house style restaurant set on the upper floor. An extended bar area at the center is where guests can have a pre-dinner cocktail or be entertained while waiting for a table.

    Our tour guide warned us that prices of food in this restaurant are expensive. Indeed, the tabs are far costlier than those in local eateries, but the delicious meal we had was worth it. The Sugar Palm was awarded as the 2014 winner and received a certificate of excellence by the TripAdvisor Community. Another compelling reason why tourists must try the food here is that Restaurateur and TV Chef Gordon Ramsay himself recommends it.

    The only thing I didn’t like was that cooking time took long and we were so hungry. Other than that, their rendition of Khmer dishes with a slight modern twist was great. Ambiance was very airy and homely. Wait staff was friendly and professional.

    Khmer Chicken Satay · $5 

    Prawn Khmer Curry · $8.50

    Fried Noodles with Beef · $5.50

    See its menu.

    Address: Taphul Rd, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia
    Phone:+855 63 964 838

    3. Amazon Angkor Cambodia

    This restaurant was near our hotel. Upon entrance, we were astounded by its massive space and large spread of food in a buffet setting. Amazon Angkor offers a wide exhibit of Cambodian and international cuisine featuring Japanese, Thai, Chinese, and others. Overall, the different tastes and flavors were enjoyable.

    While dining, guests get to watch a live performance onstage. Musicians playing folk songs and Apsara dancers gave a good overview on the Cambodian tradition, culture, music, and arts. The show started at 7:30PM and ended at 8:30PM. At the end of the show, we were allowed to take pictures with the dancers. Buffet set per person including the show costs $10. For this price, the value was unbeatable.

    Address: Krous Village, Svay Dangkum, Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Kingdom of Cambodia
    Phone: +855-12 966 98

    4. Samroh Srah Srang Restaurant

    We stopped by at Samroh Srah Srang Restaurant (in front of the Srah Srang Lake) for lunch when we were touring the Angkor Wat Complex. The restaurant looked simple and straightforward, but the food was good and typical Khmer. We were seated in the air-conditioned dining area, so we treated the experience as a nice and welcoming break from all the walking (and temple-hopping) we’ve done for the past four hours.

    Spring Rolls and Mixed Veggies with Nuts

    Chicken Curry

    Iced Coffee

    Address: Group5, North Srahsang Village , Nokor Thom Commune | Siem Reap Angkor Cambodia, Siem Reap, Cambodia
    Phone: (0) 12 77 89 42

    5. Friends the Restaurant

    Like HAVEN Training Restaurant, Friends the Restaurant also operates its business with a cause. This colorful training restaurant near the National Museum is not only famous in Phnom Penh, Cambodia but also across the globe.

    It is run by Mith Samlanh whose vision is to build the futures of former street children and marginalized young people in Phnom Penh since 1994. Friends has a shop called attached to the restaurant that sells all sorts of handmade stuff created by the students and villagers.

    We had the pleasure of eating sumptuous food and supporting their development of local people. Friends the Restaurant has a little of everything from tapas, burgers, and salads to desserts and drinks for the veggie lover, the fish and seafood lover, the adventurous, carnivores, and the sweet tooth. It’s a warm and charming place that’s quiet, much like a lovely oasis that’s very relaxing.

    Burmese Chicken Curry with Crispy Noodles, Smoked Chili, and Pickled Mustard Greens · $5.75

    Khaiphaen’s Grilled Beef Salad with Szechuan Peppers and Crispy Frangipani Flowers · $6.50

    Mixed Berry and Green Apple Crumble with Coconut Ice Cream · $4.50

    See its menu.

    Address: #215 Street 13, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
    Phone:+855 12 802 072

  • Review of Seven Monkeys Kitchen (Mall of the World 花城汇, Guangzhou)

    Review of Seven Monkeys Kitchen (Mall of the World 花城汇, Guangzhou)

    Located in an underground mall that houses a large array of Chinese and international food and drink options, Seven Monkeys Kitchen in Mall of the World, Guangzhou is a funky little cafe specializing in omurice, curry, pizza, and pasta. Most of the menu items consist of fusion-style food. We came here not only for the food but for the whole package. It was an opportunity to linger in a cafe-like setting, while in China, with homey Italian dishes to savor. 🙂

    Seven Monkeys Kitchen 并不是单纯的西餐厅，而是将食物与幸福完美融合的西餐厅。首席厨师长根据快速变化的外出就餐趋向和顾客的趣向，并结合自身丰富经验，为顾客提供多种多样的菜单和优质的服务而不断的努力着。
    Seven Monkeys Kitchen 以简练的装修风格营造出高级、利落的室内就餐氛围。

    Review of Seven Monkeys Kitchen (Mall of the World 花城汇, Guangzhou)

    Ambiance: ★★★☆☆

    Seven Monkeys Kitchen 以简练的装修风格营造出高级、利落的室内就餐氛围。Walking inside felt like stepping into a fastfood restaurant that’s informal and friendly. With wide area but limited seating, this restaurant is best for solo dining or small groups. The straightforward layout and minimalist design were captivating, amplifying the bright ambiance throughout. I also liked the idea of having white walls that could be left blank or decorated with pictures or statements in a gallery style. So neat!

    Service: ★★★★☆

    We had a great time, thanks to the staff who was courteous, humble, and polite. It was she who taught us first how to ride the Guangzhou Metro. Beyond food recommendations on the menu, she gave helpful tips and advice on which metro lines we should take to go to our next destination. 🙂 We were also happy to be served with the food quickly since we were really hungry. The only thing that should improve is attentiveness. It was quite hard to get the staff’s attention especially when more customers started to come in for lunch.

    Food: ★★★★☆

    Blanketing a hefty mound of rice tucked into a paper-thin omelet, the Hot Wing Cream Sauce Omurice 秘制烤翅奶油蛋包饭 (RMB 49) was topped with grilled wings that were particularly spicy. Not short on sauce, the warm Japanese-style omelet was so soft and the flavor blended perfectly with all the ingredients as well as the cream and ketchup.

    The Spicy Chicken Pizza 香辣烤鸡比萨 (RMB 55) tasted also amazing, but what fell out of my expectation was that this pizza did not have a bread crust, so I wasn’t even sure if it’s right to be called as “pizza.” Is there such thing as a “no-bread pizza”? Hmmm… In any case, it had a satisfying combination of cheese and mustard sauce, which was a delight. The sweetness of the pumpkin complemented the spiciness of the roasted chicken.

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    When in Guangzhou, China, it’s a great experience to learn how Chinese chefs prepare and cook Italian-inspired food. The dishes at Seven Monkeys Kitchen are moderately priced and the range of items on the menu consist of a little bit of something for every palate. This restaurant must be a hot spot for those tourists and locals who are thrilled to try delectable fusion of Italian and Asian food that don’t cost an arm and a leg.

    Cheers :)

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