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Author: Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco

  • Awesome Giveaway: Win 1 Year Supply Of Pizza! (BigDish x Don Henrico’s)

    Awesome Giveaway: Win 1 Year Supply Of Pizza! (BigDish x Don Henrico’s)

    PIZZA. This delicious comfort food staple has been elevated far beyond its humble roots. Now I don’t know anyone who doesn’t like eating pizza. And I’m pretty sure no one would pass the chance to win free pizza for a year! The prospect of never paying for pizza again for quite some time may sound too good to be true, but it’s possible.

    This season of giving, BigDish and Don Henrico’s Pizza, Pasta, and More… can make it possible for you. BigDish is giving away a great deal of awesome gifts, and taking home prizes will be a great way to end 2017—and the perfect way to start the New Year. Two lucky winners will get free 14-inch pizza every month for the entire 2018. These blessed people will easily become the “heroes” among their peers (or have a wild night by themselves, no judgement). 🙂 The winners will be announced on December 30th, so keep an eye on their Facebook page!

    How can you qualify for the draw?

    1. Like BigDish on Facebook
    2. Tag three (3) friends that you would share your pizza with on their post.
    3. Share the post about the contest, set the post to Public.
    4. Dine twice (2x) at Don Henrico’s in any of the participating branches (Glorietta 1, Tomas Morato, Sta. Lucia, Festival Mall, and SM MOA) use the promo code 1YRPIZZA on www.bigdish.ph or the BigDish app (IOS or Android).
    5. Dine from December 9th, 2017 until December 29th, 2017.
    6. Attend your two (2) reservations successfully and enjoy your meals with discounts.
    7. Two (2) winners will be drawn from all of the entries and will be notified by email.

    To learn more, read this: http://bit.ly/1YRPIZZA

  • Review of Seoul Train Korean BBQ (Sgt. Esguerra Avenue, Quezon City)

    Review of Seoul Train Korean BBQ (Sgt. Esguerra Avenue, Quezon City)

    Seoul Train Korean Barbecue in Sgt. Esguerra Avenue is an easy and excellent place to try something new. It was on soft opening when we had our dinner. This restaurant serves delicious Korean food and makes you feel like you’re in a train. The background sound effect goes “choo-choo” repeatedly over KPop music, and we thought it’s cool. Craving for Korean food? You need this in your arsenal. Seoul Train Korean BBQ is the place to come if you like the idea of grilling meat on the table and eating inside a “train.” So go forth with confidence. Your long day at work deserves it.

    Review of Seoul Train Korean BBQ (Sgt. Esguerra Avenue, Quezon City)

    Ambiance:

    Korean bands’ logos, pictures of Korean idols, graffiti on the walls, and KPop artists performing on TV. No, these do not depict the actual trains in Korea, but Seoul Train Korean BBQ has a unique ambiance that’s hard not to love. It’s like dining in a train, as you’ll see signages of Korean train stations, directions to exit (way out), car number, stickers for senior citizens’ seats, and more creative visuals.

    Outside, the facade of this train-themed restaurant is complete with rails, wipers on windows, and lights. I just didn’t manage to take a picture because it was raining, I didn’t bring an umbrella, and I couldn’t step back. Anyway, entrance to the dining area requires just a push of a button. The door opened automatically as how a real train carriage’s door opens.

    In the waiting area, there are different forms of entertainment available for the waiting customers. You can buy a capsule toy (for PhP 60 each), play the claw machine (2 PhP 10 coins) and read some magazine. Seoul Train Korean Barbecue also has a VIP room which can accommodate up to 15 people. If you’re coming with a group this big, a reservation is a must. A consumable price of PhP 3000 on weekdays and PhP 5000 on weekends will be charged.

    Service:

    We booked a reservation ahead of time to make sure we could secure a spot under an hour. The staff strictly told us that we could only stay for 1.5 hours (7:30PM to 9:00PM), but since there wasn’t a heavy flow of new customers coming in that night, we were allowed to stay longer. Servers were courteous and nice, and you can get their attention by raising your hand (per usual) or by pressing the red button (similar to the stop button in a real bus which you press to signal you want to get off).

    Food:

    Most things on the menu looked good, but we chose ones that are more familiar so our taste buds could relate better. 🙂 For starter, we had Haemul Pajeon (PhP 400), the “legendary Korean seafood pancake” that’s crispy on the outside, toasty on the edges, and soft and chewy on the inside. There’s also a vegetarian option available, so if you or your friends are vegetarians, you may request for one.

    There is something yummy and heart-warming about a sizzling bowl of bibimbap. A meal unto its own, Dolsot Bibimbap (PhP 350) was a heavenly combination of beef and flavorful vegetables cooked just right.

    Tteobokki with Cheese and Noodles (PhP 380) turned out as a heartier version of simple tteokbokki. Tteokbokki is a Korean street food snack made primarily of chewy rice cakes and fiery, funky gochujang chili paste. The final assemblage was unabashedly spicy but impossible to put down. This is the go-to hungry stomach answer for K-Poppers. Eat between sips of cold water if you can’t handle the heat.

    The star of the night? Saeng Galbi (PhP 980), of course. For pure meat taste, many Koreans prefer cuts of meat that have no marinade, especially when it’s the primmest beef short ribs you can have. A little salt and perhaps a dash of pepper will do wonders for the house special ssamjang. Banchan and lettuce can be refilled once along as requested. To eat the Korean way, place a leaf of lettuce on your palm, place meat, and a dab of dipping sauce. Then, close the lettuce and enjoy the eruption of heavenly flavors in your mouth.

    Kimbap (PhP 210) was made from steamed white rice and various other ingredients, rolled in gim and served in bite-size slices. It’s “Korean sushi” assembled with fillings of different tastes and textures. Yum!

    Price for Value:

    Sumptuous food, fun atmosphere, and great train-dining experience. Seoul Train Korean Barbecue in Sgt. Esguerra Avenue ticks all of those boxes. Prices don’t come cheap (expect to pay PhP 600-PhP 900 per head) but has fair value. This Korean restaurant offers an intangible thing beyond just the food and service that makes you want to come back.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/seoultrainph/” name=”Seoul Train Korean Barbecue” description=”28 Sergeant Esguerra Avenue, South Triangle, Sgt. Esguerra Avenue, Quezon City” rev_name=”For reservations or inquiries, call (02) 2872446″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2017-12-05″ user_review=”4.3″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”5″ ]

  • Hair Cut and Hair Color at Your Desire Hair Salon (Tomas Morato, Quezon City)

    Hair Cut and Hair Color at Your Desire Hair Salon (Tomas Morato, Quezon City)

    Your Desire Hair Salon and Spa officially launched on November 25, 2017, last Saturday, and I was one of the people invited to witness the blessing and opening ceremony. At the same time, I gave my crowning glory a mini overhaul and availed of the “hair color with haircut and keratin treatment” package. Since my hair was cut straight months before (so boring) and I needed a root retouch, I figured it was just proper timing to have them done.

    Hair Cut and Hair Color at Your Desire Hair Salon (Tomas Morato, Quezon City)

    Since I started coloring my hair a few years ago, the constant regrowth struggle is as expected and it’s ongoing. Dark brown to medium brown hair color can be lower maintenance compared to bleached and lighter hair color (like blonde and rainbow unicorn-dyed hair), but still it requires maintenance. Problem is, I’m terrible at making regular trips to the hairdresser.

    Full disclosure? My last two hair color touch-ups were done at home by myself. As expected, the colors looked uneven and ended up looking choppy. Some parts turned out darker and lighter on others. Hair experts may call it a disaster; I call it unique. 😛 Kidding.

    It’s not a usual habit for me to go to expensive salons only to end up disappointed at the result, so I’m so glad to find Your Desire Hair Salon and Spa conveniently located in Creekside Square along Tomas Morato Avenue. It’s about 15-20 minutes of drive away from home. Now I’d have a reason to visit a decent salon and spa whenever I feel my hair and nails need pampering.

    with the salon owner, Hanny Badiang

    Your Desire Hair Salon and Spa is a salon for men and women where you can kick back and relax, a place you could easily visit for a complete restyle or just your regular trim. It has a down-to-earth vibe with minimal decor that’s not intimidating. Staff are warm and friendly, none of the snooty kind, thank goodness. They deliver great customer service and won’t let you walk out with a directional (read: ridiculous) hairdo.

    I trusted my hairstylist’s judgment and skills. After cutting my hair into a U shape, he chose medium blonde ash (closest to my previous hair color) to offset the existing brassy tones and recommended hair treatment to lock the moisture in. Without any airs or graces, he had a good sense of humor and allowed me to completely stay at ease and feel safe in the knowledge that my hair would look better. The shade of the “Medium Ash Blonde Permanent Hair Color” (8.1) was based on L’Oreal’s color scheme.

    Prices are surprisingly affordable and fair, considering the chic ambiance and nice location in Quezon City. Guests are free to pop in for a consultation, and all questions regarding hair styling, nail services, and skin whitening are welcome. If you’re nearby, pop in and say hello! Treat your tresses at this modern hair salon and spa and find promotional packages that suit every budget. 🙂

    Before

    During

    After

    Packages and Rates
    1. Hair rebond, hair color, manicure, pedicure, foot spa: P2200
    2. Hair rebond, cellophane, manicure, edicure, foot spa: P2000
    3. Hair rebond, hair treatment, manicure, edicure, foot spa: P1800
    4. Brazilian keratin, haircut, manicure, edicure, foot spa: P1600
    5. Hair treatment, hair color, manicure, pedicure, foot spa: P1100
    6. Hair treatment, hair cut, manicure, pedicure, foot spa: P580
    7. Hair treatment, manicure, pedicure, foot spa: P480
    8. Back massage, manicure, pedicure, foot spa: P400
    9. Foot reflex, manicure, pedicure, foot spa: P380

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.instagram.com/your_desire_skincare/” name=”Your Desire Hair Salon and Spa” description=”Ground Floor, Unit 7C, Creekside Square , Tomas Morato Avenue, Bgy Kristong Hari, Quezon City” rev_name=”For inquiries and reservations, call 0915-170-5848, 0917-842-6698″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2017-12-01″ user_review=”4.6″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”5″ ]

  • Review of Flavors Restaurant (Holiday Inn and Suites Makati)

    Review of Flavors Restaurant (Holiday Inn and Suites Makati)

    We have visited Glorietta countless of times, but it was my first time to come across Holiday Inn & Suites Makati. I was actually surprised to learn that it’s conveniently located in the Glorietta Shopping Complex and has a direct connection to the mall. It was my sister’s 25 birthday last Sunday and we celebrated the occasion having lunch at Flavors Restaurant that’s housed at the hotel’s lobby level.

    Review of Flavors Restaurant (Holiday Inn and Suites Makati)

    Ambiance:

    The restaurant design looks posh and sleek, much like what’s expected of it as one housed in a hotel in Makati. The ambiance felt cozy and merry, with Nutcracker Christmas-themed decors throughout the space. It’s a good way to make guests feel the mood of the festive holiday season, the kind that people wouldn’t want to walk past without wishing they were inside. Indulge in a feast for all your sense at Flavors. It’s a casual dining experience with a fine dining sensibility.

    Service:

    Flavors Restaurant may be formal and elegant, but the service did not seem overly stuffy. You can expect to have a refined and proper experience without feeling uncomfortable like you can’t sit back and relax. The waitstaff were courteous and helpful, rated 5-star for a 5-star Makati hotel. They also sang a happy birthday song for my sister! 🙂

    Food:

    We were wowed with an extensive spread of the premium classics (including lechon, roast beef, crabs, shrimps, and mussels), food stations artfully presented with hearty selections of meat, seafood and vegetables, and separate dessert tables for make-your-own halo-halo, chocolate fountain, cakes, bread and pastries, and fruits.

    While there’s no particular dish that blew us away, there were certain ones that are on the borderline of great. International and local favorites and vegetarian options are available. Succinct to say, Flavors is a safe bet when you’re looking for a buffet restaurant delivering quality all-you-can-eat food with a variety of delightful choices. Feel free to get messy here – it’s the best way to enjoy the food.

    Price for Value:

    Makati is flush with expensive and highly rated dining spots, and Flavors Restaurant at Holiday Inn & Suites is no different. It hits the spot for any special occasion or family event. Rates are pretty fancy (P1900++/head) but definitely worth it. Especially in this holiday season, it’s the perfect time of the year to impress your loved ones with your refined palate and exquisite choice. We availed of BDO’s promo and got 50% off the bill! Promo period runs from November 1, 2017 to February 15, 2018. Check this link out for reference.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/HolidayInnMakati/” name=”Flavors Restaurant – Holiday Inn & Suites Makati” description=”Holiday Inn & Suites Makati opened on April 1, 2013 and is the first purpose-built Holiday Inn property in the Philippines. Flavors is located at the lobby level. Address is Palm Drive, Ayala Center, Glorietta Complex, Makati.” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (02) 909 0888″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2017-11-30″ user_review=”4.5″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”5″ ]

  • Top 50 Reasons Why I Love My Sister

    Top 50 Reasons Why I Love My Sister

    Today is my sister’s 25th birthday. It’s a big milestone as it marks the first quarter of her life. Leigh (or Nicole, as we call her in our family) has been my best friend for the last 25 years (officially now) and I don’t think my life would be the same without her. In this post, I’m listing the top 50 reasons why I love her. 🙂

    Top 50 Reasons Why I Love My Sister

    1. I love you because I know I can count on you through thick and thin.


    2. I love you because I never have to explain memories from our childhood since it’s your childhood, too. When I reach into the deepest corners of my brain and find these memories or funny stories, I know I’d have someone to share them with. It’s like half of the recollections from my youth are stored in my mind and half in yours.


    3. I love you because we get to share friends; my friends are yours and your friends are mine.


    4. I love you because we’re so different but so much alike.

    5. I love you because you always attempt to make me laugh more than almost anyone I know.


    6. I love you because you always do funny things and tell jokes.


    7. I love you because you ALWAYS have my back.


    8. I love you because you are as beautiful on the inside as you are on the outside.


    9. I love you because you are brave, braver than you think.


    10. I love you because you are caring.


    11. I love you because you are smart, smarter than you think.


    12. I love you because you can make me smile with one look.


    13. I love you because you can spend hours watching Korean series and laugh like no one is watching.


    14. I love you because you comply with our travel itineraries.


    15. I love you because you help me find gift ideas—and never run out of quirky ones.


    16. I love you because you help me find shoes and choose clothes of my style and preference.


    17. I love you because you helped a lot in organizing my bridal shower—and I didn’t expect that at all.


    18. I love you because you know how to carve out your own space even when surrounded by chaos.


    19. I love you because you look comfortable and classy in anything, from a slinky formal dress to a matching baggy t-shirt and pajamas.


    20. I love you because you promote my blog to your friends—and you’re almost always the first one to like my posts.


    21. I love you because you remember all the things I like, so I don’t have to.


    22. I love you because you test me and help me review for our News Digest exams.


    23. I love you because you trust me and seek my advice especially ones related to career.


    24. I love you because you will always be truthful as far as you are concerned. You’re genuine.


    25. I love you because you’re a calming influence.


    26. I love you because you’re a foodie and you share the love of food.


    27. I love you because you’re a wardrobe sharer and generous with your stuff.


    28. I love you because you’re adventurous.


    29. I love you because you’re a sweetheart and a nice daughter who makes our parents proud.


    30. I love you because you’re always game to pose candid and funny shots.


    31. I love you because you’re always there to lend me a hand, especially when I need it the most.


    32. I love you because you’re constantly pushing the envelope, learning new things, striving for improvement.


    33. I love you because you’re Daddy’s nurse/assistant/helper/care taker. You’re a hero.


    34. I love you because you’re not afraid of challenges. In fact, you go out and look for them.


    35. I love you because you’re one of my biggest support network.


    36. I love you because you’re one of the most positive people I know. You find silver linings where most people would just gripe.


    37. I love you because you’re patient enough to wait until I get all my food shots done for us to start our meal.


    38. I love you because you go along with my crazy ideas.


    39. I love you because you’re good with arts. You’re awesome about thinking of creative and different things and making something amazing.


    40. I love you because you’re playful.


    41. I love you because you’re still truly a kid at heart.


    42. I love you because you’re telepathic. We can communicate without words. It baffles the hell out of everyone around us, and we love it!


    43. I love you because you’re way fun to hang out with. We can talk for hours and never run out of things to say.


    44. I love you because you’re willing to be my “model” when shooting products I have to blog about.


    45. I love you because you’re willing to be my “model” when testing makeup products in stores.


    46. I love you because you’re willing to drive for me in times when I feel really tired and sleepy.


    47. I love you because you’re willing to subject yourself to my cooking experiments.


    48. I love you because you’re willing to take my photos, even at unlimited number of times just to get the right one.


    49. I love you because you’re my “partner in crime” and know me better than almost anyone.


    50. I love you because you give meaning to my life. You’re one of my greatest inspirations.

    Happy birthday, Achi Yellow, from all the cuties of Apple Street who miss playing with you.

    Happy birthday, Nicole, from your dear sister who loves you the most! ♥

  • Review of Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque (SM Megamall, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong)

    Review of Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque (SM Megamall, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong)

    Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque is one of the best-rated BBQ restaurants in New York City. It has branched out to different countries in the world, including the Philippines (opened in December 2016). Brought here by Standard Hospitality Group (the same group behind Yabu and Ipuddo), this restaurant specializes in cooking and serving all-natural meats and poultry, seasoned with perfect spice blends and then smoked with wood for many, many hours until the perfect harmony of smoke and flavor emerges. We visited Mighty Quinn’s BBQ at Mega Fashion Hall in SM Megamall last Thursday to try out new dishes on its menu. 🙂

    Review of Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque (SM Megamall, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong)

    Ambiance:

    Mighty Quinn’s Slow Smoked Barbeque has an attractive interior design with a happy blend of wood and monochromatic theme. Wood takes a large part of one side, while the wall across is painted white contrasted with a few pieces of art, photographs, and the quote “cooking the old school way with wood and time.” The tables are cleverly set out and they’re generously spaced. Seating felt comfortable enough for a 1-2 hours of stay.

    Food:

    Served with two sides, three rice servings, bottomless drinks, pickles and slaw, the Chicken and Pork Belly Platter offered such an amazing textural experience. The smoked pork belly was tender, moist and juicy, and the chicken had all the right flavors in place. I especially enjoyed the pork belly, which had a nice layer of meat, a nice layer of fat, another nice layer of meat, another nice layer of fat. Meat lovers would surely rejoice. 🙂

    Their barbecue burgers, overloaded with slow smoked meats in between brioche buns, are a far cry from the usual burger patties. The pulled pork and beef brisket burgers have wonderful marbling that will have you sinking your teeth into incredible juiciness with each and every bite. Flavors were spot on and excellent, and both were notoriously tasty. Once you try either one, you may never go back to plain ground beef or pork again.

    Note: There’s no need to add sauce; great BBQ is actually less about the sauce/seasoning and more about the cooking process. But if you feel like putting on their house bbq sauce, you’re welcome.

    The same smoky and succulent Pork Belly and Beef Brisket are available in rice bowls. The complete meal with rice and egg is the ultimate Pinoy combo. Dig into meat that’s pink, juicy, and practically melting, with perfectly charred, salty-sweet burnt edges.

    For our drink, we had classic lemonade that’s tart and sweet. Its fruity flavor matched well with big, bold, robust smoked bbq.

    Price for Value:

    Even when traffic is building up in Ortigas area, especially this holiday season, you need a ride to SM Megamall and check out Mighty Quinn’s Smoked Barbeque. 😀 Good meat is often something you have to travel for! The drive, the sweet smoky aroma upon entry, the line, and then finally confronting the beautiful, massive tray of smoked meat before your face is all part of the experience.

    Prices are fair and have great value based on the level of cooking and fine ingredients used. Service was very slick indeed, with friendly and helpful waiters topping up good and no trouble getting attention. Invite some friends over, kick back and enjoy.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/pg/MightyQuinnsPH/” name=”Mighty Quinn’s” description=”3F Mega Fashion Hall, Megamall, Mandaluyong, Philippines” rev_name=”For inquiries or reservations, call (02) 7211733″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2017-11-14″ user_review=”4.6″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”5″ ]

  • How Can You Save Money on Food When You Travel?

    How Can You Save Money on Food When You Travel?

    If you are a foodie and a globetrotter at the same time, then your food expenses may have continuously been adding up after every travel. I don’t know about you but every time I travel, I do make sure to try the locals’ recommended dishes and visit great restaurants to make the most out of the experience. The good thing is that treating yourself out to decent meals doesn’t necessary have to be expensive. In this post, I’m listing some tips that can help you save money on food and still eat to your heart’s content while traveling.

    How Can You Save Money on Food When You Travel?

    Plan your schedule.

    For tourists, all-you-can-eat restaurants is not just an indulgence but a necessity, too. Dining in a buffet setting can get you through the long afternoon and evening. Though most buffet restaurants are costly, booking your visit on a weekday instead of a weekend can be a cheaper alternative. Some restaurants offer lower rates for their weekday meals especially during lunch time and off-peak hours.

    In most cases, restaurants and bars offer higher rates during the holidays as well. Check out their website and social media updates so you can plan ahead. If you want to stick to your budget, go during work days and odd times like afternoons and early evenings.

    Pack some snacks.

    Packing meals is not only for convenience, but it’s also a smart way of saving money while in transit. Buying “side meals” and drinks when you’re out can quickly add up and throw your budget out of whack. It will be a smart move to pack healthy snacks like nuts, protein bars, pumpkin seeds, or dried fruits in a backpack so you can have something to eat whenever you feel hungry. Bringing a reusable water jug can also save you the trouble of having to buy plastic bottles of water for hydration.

    Look for the deals and offers.

    Don’t forget to keep an eye on exciting coupons and discount offers that top-notch restaurants and takeaways offer in places where you’ll be heading out for vacation. You would be able to find many exciting ones like Pizza Hut offers and similar deals. All that you have to do is to grab the right one at the right time!

    Ask for the locals’ advice.

    This is best when you’re in a place where language is not a barrier to communicate. Ask locals for the best places to find affordable but delicious bites. Hole-in-the-wall diners and small neighborhood restaurants are like “hidden gems” that will likely give a high value for your buck. It always feels nice to be served with the same quality food for a fraction of the price. If you have a friend who lives in the area, take the time to get solid advice prior your visit.

    Want to save money on your next trip? When you’re out for a vacation, keep these tips in mind when eating out. I am sure you will end up flying back without burning your wallet.

  • Review of Red Baron Ribs and Steaks (Banawe, Quezon City)

    Review of Red Baron Ribs and Steaks (Banawe, Quezon City)

    If you’re in for baby back ribs and steaks, Red Baron Ribs and Steaks is one of the better choices in the area of Banawe. This restaurant is situated next to a car washing station. The entrance may not be facing the street and its neighborhood may be quiet, but the buzz is still going very strong. We were surprised to find that it’s jam-packed when we arrived and until we left. Word about it must have gone viral. Food here is best suited for a group of friends or family hanging out to chill or to dine together for a decent but not necessarily expensive meal.

    Red Baron Ribs and Steaks in Banawe offers budget-friendly prices but you can have less worries on footing the bill when you book your next meal with BigDish. In case you’re not yet familiar, BigDish is a brand-new way of offering dining deals and discounts. There’s no membership fee required. Just reserve online (through the website or mobile app) and get discounts depending on the number of people, date and time, and the restaurant chosen. Once booking is done, a confirmation code will show up and this should be presented to the restaurant at the time of visit. No hassle! Click here to check it out.

    Review of Red Baron Ribs and Steaks (Banawe, Quezon City)

    Ambiance:

    The space is apparently not as big as we expected but this doesn’t stop the streams of customers coming in. The setup looks simple and the interior design is nothing sophisticated, but this place has the feel of community comfort. Arranged for practical use, the wooden tables and chairs are put closely next to one another, suggesting a more casual and intimate dining ambiance.

    Food:

    At home, we’re used to boil raw peanuts in salt water for a salty, shell-shucking-worthy treat. The Big Bowl of Dried Peanuts in Shell (PhP 69) turned out to be a good appetizer.

    Sometimes, simplicity rules the nacho game, and this rings true for Red Baron’s Nachos (PhP 153). Bathed in cheesy sauce that’s smooth and silly without tasting too overwhelming, these nachos are great for a hearty snack or an easy weeknight meal. Each chip was individually topped then baked, ensuring you get full crisp and flavor in every bite.

    Smoky, sweet, and tangy, the Smoked Baby Back Ribs (PhP 295) had a massive dose of savory flavor. The Solo set came with a wild side (corn kernels) and rice. The baby back ribs were fall-off-the-bone tender, with a substantial bark, smoky character and sweet undertone. This dish is a keeper!

    The Rib Eye Steak (PhP 329), one of the house specialties, came out also properly tender. The flavor was quite satisfying, a definite standout. Think beefy and deeply savory. In terms of texture, the succulent steak tore apart with almost no effort. Cheesy garlic mashed potatoes, which was served as the perfect side dish, helped balance out the saltiness of the gravy.

    Finally, we had the Crunchy Flauta Steak Pure Meltique Striploin Goodness (PhP 473). Absolutely no rub necessary. The Meltique Beef was pretty good as it was well done. It’s an indulgence to be experienced if you have not had it before. Love the curly fries on the side!

    For drinks, we had Guyabano (PhP 142), Apple Berry (PhP 158), Strawberry Banana (PhP 138), and Kitkat Matcha (PhP 138) and tasted them all. Our verdict? The guyabano hands down stole the show. We happen to like fresh fruit juices. 🙂 If you prefer something cold and tart, with essence of berries, order either the Apple Berry or the Strawberry Banana. The thick and creamy Kitkat Matcha didn’t taste too much of matcha, but it’s a refreshing break from the fruity drink variants.

    Price for Value:

    Ribs and steaks are not particularly hard to find in Metro Manila. Almost every city here has a handful of local joints that serve up their own great rendition. Those that offer good value for money, on the other hand, require some digging. Red Baron Ribs and Steaks in Banawe is one of those. I highly recommend booking via BigDish, not only to get discounts, but also to make sure you have your sure seats especially when you plan to visit during prime dining times. 😉

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/redbaronribs/” name=”Red Baron Ribs & Steaks” description=”143 D. Tuazon Corner Calamba Street, Lourdes, Banawe, Quezon City Other branch: 1357 Severino Reyes Street Corner Bambang” rev_body=”For inquiries, call 3545970″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2017-10-26″ user_review=”4.1″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”5″ ]