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Category: Food Reviews

  • Review of Yayoi Philippines (SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City)

    Review of Yayoi Philippines (SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City)

    Beyond sushi and sashimi, there are far more interesting dishes that Japanese restaurants offer. One such must-try meal is “Teishoku” 定食, which Yayoi takes pride in. Teishoku is a type of Japanese set meal, where all of the dishes in the course are served together as a set. Teishoku dining is based on the ichiju-issai (or “one soup, one side”) traditional meals offered at Zen temples, which included a main, soup, rice, and pickles. The concept eventually spread throughout Japan and transformed into the convenient meal sets found at restaurants and cafeterias today.

    Yayoi Philippines in SM Megamall Building B has just celebrated its first-year anniversary last September 16, 2017. We were one of the many customers who availed of their “buy one take one of teishoku” promotion that was valid only on that day, “Yayoi Teishoku Day,” as it was called.

    Review of Yayoi Philippines (SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City)

    Ambiance:

    The vibe was buzzing and the venue was packed with quite a lot of people, but noise level was tolerable. For the most part, Yayoi’s ambiance conveys clean lines and abundant lighting, and the palette is inspired by wood. Revealing a zen-like appeal with sleek, minimalist style with no superfluous decorations, neutral, subtle colors throughout the restaurant were pleasing and easy to the eyes. Walls were creamy white with wooden panel accents.

    Service:

    Since it was their anniversary day, operations looked very busy. The queue of customers outside was long, but it moved quickly since service was fast and efficient. The ordering process was a product of innovation. Customers choose food and drinks and submit their selections through an iPad. A few presses on the screen and a confirmation message will appear.

    There’s no need to ask for the staff; they’ll serve the dishes momentarily on the table, and then come back later to process the bill when customers press on the “Pay Now” button. The menu on the iPad comes in English and Japanese languages. A physical menu is also available for less “techie” customers.

    Food:

    Common types of teishoku include tonkatsu (pork cutlet), yakizakana (grilled fish), and tempura (deep-fried battered fish and vegetables). We decided to try Yayoi’s best-sellers. Here’s the food rundown:

    Sukiyaki Teishoku (PhP 595) was presented as beef hotpot with assorted vegetables stewed in teriyaki sauce. The slices of beef or the noodles were the main event, but the accompaniments (tofu, mushrooms, and miso soup) were equally upstanding. The sweetness of sukiyaki and teriyaki sauce and the savoriness of beef came together as basically more a feeling than a flavor. Adding beaten egg to the beef was part of the enjoyment.

    Mix Toji Teishoku (PhP 475) is a mix of everything you would describe as Japanese comfort food: breaded pork loin, fried shrimp and sukiyaki beef simmered in special sauce and egg. I love how each piece had its own integrity and flavor. The sauce was rich and just gloriously creamy. Delicious.

    Namban Teishoku (PhP 450) is a succulent chicken dish drizzled with special sauce and topped with Yayoi dressing. The fried chicken steak was amazing with the crispy skin combined with the meat. If you feel like it, place the chicken on the lettuce leaves and you’ve got a nice chicken salad!

    Teriyaki Salmon Teishoku (PhP 595) was served with stir-fried salmon and vegetables with teriyaki sauce. When it comes to teriyaki salmon, I like the glaze sweet enough to cut through some of the fattiness of the fish. Sadly though, the pieces of salmon were neither juicy nor moist but too dried up for my liking (might have been a bit overcooked).

    Price for Value:

    Our dining experience at Yayoi in SM Megamall wasn’t life-changing, but overall it was satisfactory. You’ll be glad to know that they don’t skimp on the good stuff. Their #YAYfor1 promotion was a great deal! If you’re into Japanese food, you’ll love it here. Stick to their teishoku and you’ll be in good shape. Food tastes and quality of dishes served are worth the prices, with discount or without. 🙂

    Yayoi Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/yayoiphilippines/” name=”Yayoi Philippines” description=”3rd Level, SM Megamall Bldg. B, SM Megamall EDSA corner Julia Vargas Ave., Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, Philippines” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (02) 634-4865″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2017-09-21″ user_review=”4.4″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”5″ ]

  • Review of Empacho (Tomas Morato, Quezon City)

    Review of Empacho (Tomas Morato, Quezon City)

    Louie has just dined here a few days ago, and he swore everything’s good, so good that it deserved a return visit right away. Empacho is a two-storey restaurant/bar offering Filipino food with a twist. Its menu is packed with so many interesting dishes served with portions to share family-style. How do Triple Bypass, Pitik Pitik Rolls, Sisig Bruschetta, Crispy Soft Shell Crab Pinakbet, Slow Cooked Beef Cheek with Adobo Sauce, and Balut Tempura sound?

    If you find yourself caught in Tomas Morato without a plan and with a group of friends in tow, head on over to Empacho for lunch or dinner and you’ll have a perfectly decent time. Their food will give you a lot of pleasure. And a lot of calories! Better be warned: If on a strict and serious diet, you should probably skip it for the sake of your health. 😛

    Review of Empacho (Tomas Morato, Quezon City)

    Ambiance:

    Empacho is a stunner. With exposed brick walls, wood surfaces, high ceiling, and comfortable seating for small and large groups, the space screams sexy. It’s a gem in the area. Successful and sweet use of polished cement on the floor gives it a natural and classy look. They may look incomplete without colors, but the actual beauty lies within the raw texture of cement being exposed to the interior. The suspended cage pendant lights with edison light bulbs are also eye-catching. All these attractive elements in the restaurant make the place more elegant with a rustic vibe that’s welcoming and appealing.

    Food:

    In for an exotic gastronomic adventure? Get Balut Tempura (PhP 350) on your table. Known as a tasty aphrodisiac, balut is that terrifying hard-boiled duck embryo that’s been popularized in Fear Factor. Battered tempura-style with micro arugula salad and salted egg aioli, the fertilized duck egg was soft and tender, dissolving in your mouth almost like a mousse. Just leave the albumen—the white part of the egg—behind, as it has the flavor and texture of a pencil eraser.

    Cooked with Empacho’s scrumptious and rich annatto peanut sauce and served with bagoong, the Crispy Pork Kare-Kare (PhP 395) was delivered in spades. The spicy deep-fried salted pork belly was juicy and properly seasoned. The exterior was salty and extra crispy, while the interior remained tender and moist. It’s a rich combination that paired surprisingly well with the nuttiness of kare-kare. Two thumbs up!

    We tried both the Aligue Rice (PhP 65) and Tinapa Rice (PhP 65), and liked the latter better. It’s every bit of delicious you could imagine it to be and every mouthful will get you satisfied! Aligue rice consisted of garlic and aligue topped with fried chili, while tinapa rice was made with tinapa flakes topped with salted egg and tomato.

    Price for Value:

    Empacho literally translates to indigestion. Whoever named this restaurant must be a genius. Dishes here are so indulgent and sinful. Every bite tempts you to eat more, and thus make you feel like your stomach would be bursting in fullness. Usually, that doesn’t sound good. But in true Empacho fashion, this just proves how much you enjoyed their food. Price for value is quite fair, considering the creativity and ingenuity of their offerings. Names of the food are also clearly well thought out of. This restaurant/bar in Tomas Morato is a must-try!

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/empacho.ph/” name=”Empacho” description=”Second Floor, 170 Tomas Morato Corner Don Roces Avenue, Tomas Morato, Quezon City” rev_name=”For inquiries, contact 0917 467 1816″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2017-09-03″ user_review=”4.3″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”5″ ]

  • Review of Kandle Cafe (Mother Ignacia Avenue, Quezon City)

    Review of Kandle Cafe (Mother Ignacia Avenue, Quezon City)

    Kandle Cafe is one of the restaurants that are offering discounts when you reserve via BigDish. The food on the menu looked interesting, so we decided to drive to Mother Ignacia Avenue for late lunch last weekend to give it a try. The whole concept of naming the cafe “Kandle” takes well. It’s derived from the initials of the four siblings (Khyrss, Dong King, Leslie, and Eli) who own the place. Kandle Cafe has an easygoing neighborhood feel. It’s the kind of spot where the food speaks for itself and nothing is trying too hard to impress you; it effortlessly draws you in and makes you want to be there.

    Review of Kandle Cafe (Mother Ignacia Avenue, Quezon City)

    Ambiance:

    Kandle Cafe is a comfortable space, and it’s definitely cooler than your average coffee shop. Brewed and blended coffee, an attractive refrigerated display of pastries, and creative dishes should help keep you going while you do whatever it is you’re doing on your laptop. But there’s more. The ambiance features a modern layout with wooden furnishing. Decorative elements introducing splashes of color on the wall certainly bring out a homey feel and inviting atmosphere. Greenery is also dotted about the space. The wood theme is continued at the back patio, where diners can enjoy the al fresco dining setup. If weather is nice, sit out there and enjoy the chill.

    Food:

    We started our meal with Paella Croquettes (PhP 210): chicken in toasted rice balls. We’re no stranger to paella, but paella presented in balls is unique and something we couldn’t have imagined. Taste was incredibly flavorful for being so simple, nothing dry or crumbly. Inside, there’s a burst of cheesy goodness that melts in the mouth. Yup, these paella croquettes are awesome.

    Kandle Cafe’s BBQ Chicken (PhP 250) was marinated in hickory smoke sauce and served with 63 degree poached egg, charred corn kernels, and greens. It’s not our favorite version of charred chicken but it was not bad. I’m a fan of the assortment of tastes and textures in just one dish. It’s like party on a plate! This dish is perfect for brunch when you want something healthy and hearty, or any time of day when you’re hankering for a bite of the Southwest.

    Finally, we had the best-selling and most recommended Ms. Eggy & Mr. Eggoy Pasta (PhP 240). The name is already catchy enough to get us, but it’s the ingredients that won our hearts. 😍 It’s fresh squid ink pasta sauteed in smoked bacon and onion, light cream sauce, with 63 degree poached egg garnished with crispy bacon and toasted pan de mie. I could not seem to distinguish between the pasta and the squid; it’s hard to tell them apart. Both were tad thick, springy, and ropy. The squid ink flavor was mostly present, tasting briny and earthy. There’s an even more substantial build-up of savoriness when we mixed the egg.

    Price for Value:

    Kandle Cafe in Mother Ignacia Avenue, Quezon City is quite a foodie destination. It serves up great food in a somewhat unexpected setting, and to top things off, the menu represents a fantastic value as well. What I love most is how it’s designed to have a continuous indoors-outdoors relationship which allows guests to interact with fresh air towards the garden for a nice change of pace. Will I be back? You can count on it. I’d like to try their coffee next time. 🙂

    [schema type=”review” name=”Kandle Cafe” description=”1103, 113 Mother Ignacia Ave, Quezon City, 1103 Metro Manila” rev_name=”For inquiries, call 0998 276 1571″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2017-08-29″ user_review=”4.3″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”5″ ]

  • Review of Pitmaster’s Smokehouse BBQ (Kapitolyo, Pasig City)

    Review of Pitmaster’s Smokehouse BBQ (Kapitolyo, Pasig City)

    After having a decent meal at Pitmaster’s Smokehouse BBQ in Kapitolyo, Pasig City, we can say we’ve turned into fans of this grill restaurant. Our overall experience was certainly classed-up. Their specialty? Smoked meat cooked using only local wood and a unique blend of spices, and then paired with a collection of homemade sauces like Apple (sweet), East Capitol (spicy), and Hazelnut (something close to a spread that you love). Local beers are served daily.

    with Chef Dan

    Pitmaster’s Smokehouse BBQ humbly began as a simple ihaw-ihaw barbecue concept that has grown into a more technical “smoking” barbecue restaurant serving mouthwatering smoked meats. This is a great spot to expand your horizons on grilled dishes and delicious comfort food without committing to breaking the bank. It’s a destination for family and certified foodies looking to diversify their curious palate. To further relieve worries on the bill, reserving through BigDish is recommended. Book online and score a huge discount of up to 50% off!

    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 book your next meal at Pitmaster’s Smokehouse BBQ.

    Review of Pitmaster’s Smokehouse BBQ (Kapitolyo, Pasig City)

    Ambiance:

    Casual urban elegance meets modern aesthetics at Pitmaster’s Smokehouse BBQ. Wood surroundings mostly make up its rustic approachability, and brick walls adorned with creative drawings and some food posters further add on to the consistency of a cozy feel. Splashes of color are introduced in the form of writings on the chalkboard menu. Ample lighting is available but there’s also a lot of natural lighting from the restaurant’s windows. Layout is kept simple, maximizing the seating zones arranged throughout the indoor area, while also having an outdoor space for al fresco dining.

    Food:

    Chicken skin is usually salty but Pitmaster’s does it differently. Their deep-fried Chicken Skin (PhP 145) had a great balance of honey-sweet and garlicky flavor that provides a nice change of pace from the traditional dish you’re familiar with. It excited our appetite and made us look forward to the next entrees with eager anticipation, which is what every good appetizer should do. The chicken skin was punchy and perfect to order on your cheat day. 🙂

    Pulled Pork Roll with Kesong Puti (PhP 200) is a definite mainstay on the menu. It’s not lumpiang Shanghai or any ordinary fried spring rolls, though it may look like it, but shredded smoked pork butt tossed in Gochujang, rolled and deep fried. Here you get the best of both worlds: thick, slightly chewy and juicy meat and crunchy bark. It’s a nice pica-pica dish while having smooth conversations over a meal. Kesong puti on the side bounced against the gentle flavor of pork without fear of overwhelming the senses.

    Pit Caesar Salad (PhP 240) is classic Caesar salad mixed with smoked bacon strips and homemade anchovy sauce. Here you have salty, smoky, and sweet flavors in a balanced medley. The greens were sparkingly fresh and what elevated the dish even more was the poached egg on top, which wasn’t meant for only decoration, but really as a palatable component. And oh, the smoked bacon gave depth to what might otherwise be just a boring salad.

    We saved the best for last. For our main course, we had The Pit Platter (PhP 1500) which consisted of five smoked specialties with regular sides (see list below) and carafe iced tea. It’s good for four people to share! Some food are simply too wonderful to ignore, and this smoked meat platter definitely falls into this category. Visually and flavor-wise, the Pitmaster’s Smoked Ribs and Smoked Corriander Chicken for me were the most tantalizing. All the other meat varieties were done right as well, featuring perfect charred crust in savory and smoky goodness. The sides, especially our favorite Elotes or Mexican-style corn on the cub, also scored A in our book. Yum!

    Rundown:

    • Pitmaster’s Smoked Ribs – 7-hour smoked pork ribs
    • Black Angus Brisket – 15-hour smoked black angus beef brisket
    • Smoked Bacon Strips – homemade 7-day cured and smoked bacon strips
    • Smoked Corriander Chicken – chicken leg quarter with honey chili-garlic glaze (mild, hot, magma)
    • Pit Smoked Sausage – homemade smoked sausages with your choice of either garlic & herb or sweet pepper
    • Sides: Kimchi Rice (PhP 65), Pepper Rice (PhP 60), Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Thyme Bechamel (PhP 95)

    Price for Value:

    In the landmarked “foodie” space of Kapitolyo, piles of restaurants left and right fight for attention. If you’re looking for grilled and smoked meat, look no further than Pitmaster’s Smokehouse BBQ, which lives up to its name. (By definition, a pitmaster is one who operates a barbecue pit, one who is skilled at barbecuing.) This restaurant serves really good smoked meats matched with tasty sauces that don’t overpower but complement and blend together well with the dishes.

    Prices aren’t much of a bargain but pretty reasonable for the quality of food and friendly service. Click here to book your next meal at Pitmaster’s Smokehouse BBQ to get a discount and invite your friends to indulge in reliably good bites! 🙂

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://goo.gl/5ak8xK” name=”Pitmaster’s Smokehouse BBQ” description=”64 East Capitol Dr, Pasig” rev_name=”For inquiries, call 0917 3160255 or (02) 616 7919″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2017-08-17″ ]

  • Review of Grind Bistro (Bonifacio Global City, Taguig)

    Review of Grind Bistro (Bonifacio Global City, Taguig)

    Grind Bistro in Net Park Building, BGC offers food that’s creative, tasty, and beautifully plated. It has earned its way into the conversation when it comes to American comfort food. Opened in May 2016, this restaurant is an upscale version of your textbook American fastfood joint. Grind Bistro is well known for their 100% USDA beef Grind Burger and steaks, but certainly there are far more interesting dishes to try. We visited last Saturday for lunch and had an excellent dining experience.

    Our meal was booked through BigDish’s app, and we had an instant discount off the bill. In case you haven’t heard about it yet, 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 off your bill 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!

    Review of Grind Bistro (Bonifacio Global City, Taguig)

    Ambiance:

    Grind Bistro in BGC is a great foodie destination where guests can enjoy American comfort food and New World wines in a cozy setting. The atmosphere makes for an excellent date spot or a family luncheon. It’s neither too loud to cut off conversation nor too intimate that the awkward silences are painful. The light fixtures hanging boldly from the ceiling look very decorative. They add a retro flavor with the black cage pendant design, giving off soft and tender lighting to the surroundings. Appropriately so, the black chairs in the dining area are a good match. The accent chairs on the side look stylish and comfortable, with a pop of orange shades for a good visual contrast.

    Food:

    For starters, we had the thinly-sliced potato chips fired to a light airy crisp. It looks simple but prepare to be wowed. Tad salty and super crispy, these chips were truly satisfying and every bite kept us wanting to get more. The sweet homemade condiment also proved to be a good complement.

    Next, we tried the Sliders (PhP 395), or what you may call “small bites of beef heaven.” This appetizing entree was presented as three mini Grind burgers made with 100% USDA ground beef “sandwiched” in brioche with onions and pickles. The beef was cooked medium-rare, as we requested, and all the other components worked together like a great jazz rhythm section.

    When in Grind Bistro, don’t miss the Nutty Black Chicken (PhP 595). We expected this best-selling dish to be a hit, and we got it! The chicken may look burned but really it isn’t. Coated in squid ink mixed in tempura batter, the boneless skinless chicken was juicy, tender, and incredibly flavorful. Plus points go to the crunch of its exterior. The hazelnut romesco gave a subtly nutty and refined taste.

    Pancetta, garlic, black pepper, cream, and egg yolk made up the Truffled Penne Carbonara (PhP 495). It was lip-smacking delicious and we were all smiles. We love anything with truffle and so far, this one did not let us down.

    Topped with pesto, asparagus, and fresh ricotta, the Squid Ink Raviolis (PhP 370) were light, delicate pillows of devilish goodness, each filled with housemade steak and leek. Tinted with the ink of a cephalopod, the ravioli looked striking against a white plate, creating a “black tie” effect that’s appealing to the eye. Although the ink comes from a sea dweller, it did not taste fishy mostly because of the marinara sauce. The combination of flavors was well played.

    Price for Value:

    The brainchild of husband-and-wife team Chef Steven and trained wine sommelier Cristina Imperial Carl, Grind Bistro prepares food that are delivered with an elegant style and grace. Their menu is regularly reviewed and updated to make sure they keep their customers’ favorites and at the same time offer new items that give diners a fresh experience each time they visit. Reasonable prices, inviting ambiance, and friendly and efficient service are other good reasons to return. Book a table through BigDish and get up to 50% off discount. Can’t beat this deal! 😉

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/GrindBistro/” name=”Grind Bistro” description=”Ground Floor, Netpark Building, Fifth Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (02) 946-3870 or 0956-889-8348” author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2017-08-01″ ]

  • Review of Pink Panda Southeast Asian Diner (Poblacion, Makati City)

    Review of Pink Panda Southeast Asian Diner (Poblacion, Makati City)

    Pink Panda is housed on the ground floor of Y2 Residence Hotel across A. Venue Mall. On the surface, it would be easy to assume that it’s just another under-the-radar casual spot in Makati. But one step in and you’ll realize it’s far from that. It’s a dimly-lit restaurant where you can take delight in Southeast Asian food flavors and get a quick alcohol fix. Featuring Thai, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Chinese, and Filipino comfort food, Pink Panda updates its menu every six months, retaining those that received warm accolade from customers and replacing those that didn’t. Aside from serving a la carte dishes for lunch and dinner, it also caters to breakfast of hotel guests daily buffet-style.

    Dinner was booked through BigDish’s app, and we had an instant discount off our meal. 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 off your bill 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!

    Review of Pink Panda Southeast Asian Diner (Poblacion, Makati City)

    Ambiance:

    Pink Panda in Makati opened in 2014 and it’s owned by Erwan Heusaff and his friends. It is a nice change of pace if you’re ever in need of a quieter meal in Makati, perfect for a date night, dinner with the family, or a cool hangout session with friends. Its interior design and theme exude a genteel charm. The modern space looks artsy and colorful, filled with Asian decors and influences. The bicycle on the wall and the ceiling panels are sleek accents that are most striking and unexpected. While the lighting and overall ambiance seemingly attract a grown-up crowd, this restaurant doesn’t feel stuffy in the slightest.

    Food:

    We started dinner with the Prawn Toasties (PhP 220) and were completely smitten with the taste and texture. I’m seriously craving for it while typing right now! Presented as small triangles of bread with sesame seeds and sweet chili sauce on the side, these toasts were savory. They were fried to a light bronze and had a mild, unobtrusive flavor.

    Pink Panda’s Chicken and Dumpling Noodle (PhP 240) is awesome stuff that reminded me of childhood. It’s a chicken-rich and particularly hearty soup that consisted of roasted chicken, spinach dumpling, garlic chips, and egg noodles cooked in lemongrass ginger broth that’s aromatic. The soup had a good amount of salt, and the noodles had a good bite to it. The dumplings were flavorful and stuffed full, folded into little round parcels. Yum!

    Who eats at Pink Panda without getting their signature Pink Panda Pork Bun (PhP 190)? Made with Chinese sausage, wood ear mushroom, and salted egg, these “siopao” pork buns are must-orders. They’re huge and tasty, especially with the sweet sauce. I liked that the pork did not have too much fat. We appreciated more of the meatiness in the fluffy steamed bun.

    Dimsum and then Some (PhP 330) is a must-order when you want to relish a quality yum cha meal. Three different types of shrimp dumplings (more like “hakaw”) were served hot on the table: chili, pumpkin, and kinchay. Honestly I couldn’t choose which one was the best. All were great and really satisfying, with or without the accompaniment of chili soy sauce.

    Crispy Beef Rendang (PhP 220) was the star of the night. It’s one of the best-selling dishes at Pink Panda, and the reason is pretty obvious. The short ribs were perfectly fried, with a crisp exterior and a tender inside. Swimming in spiced coconut sauce and a coating of delicious spices, their rendition of the beef rendang was so mouthwatering that we had to order two extra cups of jasmine rice (PhP 50) to maximize our enjoyment of the meal. Crunchy and fragrant, it’s a fiery fare that’s like an explosion of great flavors. Totally addictive.

    Finally, we had Char Kway Teow (PhP 285), a popular dish in Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei and Indonesia. It’s a rich dish emboldened by chicken, Chinese sausage, hearty hofan, egg noodles, chili, and sweet soy, with a scattering of bean sprouts to add crunch. If you’re trying char kway teow for the first time, go for the gusto!

    Price for Value:

    If you’re interested in trying Asian fusion food, Pink Panda Southeast Asian Diner in Y2 Residence Hotel is the place to be. Open for walk-ins from 11am to 12mn, it serves a variety of popular Southeast Asian dishes with a modern twist in a hip and creative environment. Prices are good for those on a budget; you can order a lot without spending a lot. Be adventurous, and try reserving through BigDish to get up to 50% instant discount off your bill. Check out this link to get started.

    Y2 Residence Hotel offers the weary soul a distinctly serene and tranquil ambiance even when it’s merely a few minutes away from the city’s Central Business District as well as several world-class shopping destinations and vibrant nightspots.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/pg/thepinkpandadiner/” name=”Pink Panda” description=”Ground Floor Y2 Residence Hotel, 4687 Santiago St. corner B. Valdez & Singian Street, Makati City” rev_name=” For inquiries, call +63 (917) 794-2005 or +632 224-3000 loc 3057″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2017-07-26″ ]

  • Review of Main Street Restaurant (East Capitol Drive, Pasig City)

    Review of Main Street Restaurant (East Capitol Drive, Pasig City)

    For the record, Main Street was the first restaurant we ever visited in East Capitol Drive, Pasig City. Aside from its awesome Canadian-American comfort food, the aesthetic appeal of this restaurant makes it a must-visit. If you’re passing by in the area or just looking to eat well without mortgaging your future, Main Street in Kapitolyo is a good start! Grab some drinks and expect to get satisfied with a decent meal. 🙂

    Dinner was booked through BigDish’s app two days ago, and we had an instant discount off our meal. 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 off your bill 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.

    Review of Main Street Restaurant (East Capitol Drive, Pasig City)

    Ambiance:

    If there’s one thing all creative industries can agree on, it’s that black and white is a timeless duo. It seems to be the main color theme in Main Street Kapitolyo. The sleek dining area looks even more beautiful with textural contrast of bricks on the wall that adds a striking embellishment to the space.

    The ceiling also forms a good accent, with blocks popping out giving further texture and drama to the room. Overall, I love the chromatic harmony and clean, contemporary design. There’s coherence and balance in the choice of materials and colors, and the ambiance feels cozy. The choice of furnishings contribute to the orderly and restrained aesthetic. Main Street has a second floor, which serves as a function room where guests can book and host private events for special occasions. P.S. Grown-ups can head to the nice bar at the back.

    Food:

    As anyone would hope from a restaurant that specializes in Canadian comfort food, Main Street in Kapitolyo does a better than respectable poutinerie. Its Bacon Cheeseburger Poutine (PhP 240) consisted of hand-cut fries, USDA ground beef, applewood smoked bacon bits, and hot cheese sauce. This is the kind of food that can get you out of bed in the morning, even on lazy days.

    If you like old classic, you’ll enjoy the Buttermilk Fried Chicken (PhP 290) as we did. The three pieces of chicken with garlic cream sauce were served with a choice of herbed rice or fries. We chose fries and didn’t regret it. The chicken was incredibly crunchy, with a crispy, craggy crust and juicy meat. It burst with seasoned juices underneath in every bite. Yum!

    Served with roasted carrots and rice, the 8-hour braised Hoisin Baby Back Ribs (PhP 385) can’t be beat. This dish is quite a fusion of Asian and Canadian influences. With honey hoisin sauce, the baby back ribs were far from dry. Taste was excellent, too. It brought a massive dose of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors.

    I love salmon, especially one that melts across the tongue like butter. Main Street’s Miso Glazed Salmon (PhP 390) had moist and tender flesh and fat that’s been fully rendered. With a crispy seared skin, the pan-seared salmon arrived on the table with sauteed vegetables and a serving of shallot chive fried rice. The miso taste was definitely evident. It’s a combination of salty, sweet, earthy, and savory.

    Prawn and Mussels Pasta (PhP 360) was Louie’s favorite among all the dishes we tried. Cooked with olive oil, garlic, prawns, Chilean mussels, basil, and parsley, the pasta was simple but really delicious. It’s creamy and filling.

    For dessert, we had Apple Crumble (PhP 200). The thinly sliced apples were roasted in butter, honey, and cinnamon, baked with a crumble crust, and topped with smashed graham crackers and vanilla ice cream. I liked that it’s not toothachingly sweet, and the true flavor of apple still dominated. if you’re looking for classic apple desserts to please a crowd, this is the one. It’s pretty good stuff!

    Price for Value:

    Attentive servers? Wonderful decors? Satisfying comfort food tagged at affordable prices? Yes, yes, and yes, please. Main Street in Kapitolyo has it all. This casual restaurant in Pasig is recommended for fans of Canadian-American food or just anyone who would like to be served with real treats. Make sure to order poutinerie. It’s a taste explosion that should be crowned: a winner.

    If you’re planning to visit Main Street, go make a reservation via the BigDish app or its website to score instant discount up to 50% off your bill. They’re also running a collaboration with Zalora which will get you another 20% discount off in the shopping site. Check it out.

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  • Review of Small Talk Cafe (Legazpi City, Albay, Bicol)

    Review of Small Talk Cafe (Legazpi City, Albay, Bicol)

    One of the best things to experience when traveling in the Philippines is discovering local food favorites which leave guests feel more immersed in the place. After we checked into Pinehurst Suite in Legazpi, the innkeeper recommended us to try Bicolano cuisine in Small Talk Cafe located along Dona Aurora Street. We went to Ligñon Hill Nature Park and met two locals who were very kind to drive us to nearby tourist destinations worth visiting. As a thank-you for their help, we invited them to have dinner with us in Small Talk Cafe. It’s a modest house-turned-restaurant that serves local delicacies like Adobong Manok sa Gata, Pinangat Pasta, and Mayon-stuffed Pizza (inspired from the Mayon Volcano in Albay).

    Review of Small Talk Cafe (Legazpi City, Albay, Bicol)

    Ambiance:

    Small Talk has all the makings of a perfect spot for a family meal. It has the culinary buzz without the pressure. We love the vibe of the restaurant. It’s ideal for small talks, smooth conversations, or a long catching up, since the setup is like a rustic house that feels warm, relaxing, and convenient. With wooden tables and chairs, a piano, artworks, and a number of bright colors and patterns throughout, it’s a nice reprieve from the common “rustic yet modern” feel that most spots seem to have these days.

    Food:

    We thought anything that has “Talk of the Town” noted on the menu in red was worth a shot. We started with Albay Fries (PhP 50). The fries didn’t quite deliver mouthwatering flavors but what got us hooked was the fact that it’s made from the root crop of laing (taro) or “linsa.” With properly crispy exterior, these fries tasted interestingly different from the usual French fries. There’s a subtle sweetness of the root playing well with the condiment.

    We ordered Filipno-style Spaghetti (PhP 475) which was sweet and cheesy just the way we imagined. It’s meaty and hearty, and the sauce was spoon-worthy. Taste and texture of the noodles come close to how my mom cooks it. Two thumbs up for this one!

    Completing the homey eating experience, another comfort food we tried was their Crispy Whole Fried Chicken (PhP 400). The fried chicken had a solid crust with a heavily seasoned batter and a perfect marriage of taste and crunch.

    Made with taro leaves and gata blended in white sauce, Pasta Pinangat (PhP 140) was also a standout. Cooked a little touch of spiciness, this pasta was brimming with delicious coconut cream flair. It also has an earthy depth that elevated the dish further.

    We saved the best for last and got a slice each of the Bicolana Pizza (PhP 280). Loaded with pinangat (laing), pineapple chunks, mushroom and mozzarella as toppings, this pizza is a clear winner. It’s a solid interpretation of a classic. How laing played with mozzarella and tomato sauce added weight and character for sure. Its essence was apparent but not overwhelmingly so.

    Price for Value:

    Small Talk Cafe which opened in 1999 has been regarded over the years as the best restaurant in Albay. We haven’t been into every single one so we can’t say it’s true, but there’s no doubt this restaurant is a must-visit when in Legazpi. Packed with foodie-friendly shareable plates, Small Talk Cafe’s food prices were very fair and reasonable. Plus points go to staff who treated us like we were guests dining in their home. They got the local charm, all very friendly and hospitable. The relaxed service makes you feel special in a touristy way. Savor a fresh experience at Small Talk Cafe without worrying about the bill. This place is awesome! Check it out. 🙂

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/Small-Talk-Cafe-186176090111/” name=”Small Talk Cafe” description=”51 Dona Aurora Street, Legazpi City, Albay” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (052) 480-1393 / (052) 437-8708″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco” pubdate=”2017-07-02″ user_review=”4″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”5″ ]