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Category: Food Reviews

  • Review of The Frazzled Cook (Tomas Morato, Quezon City)

    Review of The Frazzled Cook (Tomas Morato, Quezon City)

    Formerly located along Luna Mencias Street, The Frazzled Cook has moved to Scout Gandia near Tomas Morato in Quezon City. This restaurant serves international cuisines in a quirky home-cook style and offers food which are familiar and fulfilling. We have attempted to visit this reopened branch before but got lost in the way as we followed Waze’s directions (ended up dining at Buenisimo nearby).

    Last Saturday, we finally found the right place at their new address with the help of Google Maps. 🙂 We were second on the wait list and had to stay outside—not a big deal. Was the food worth the wait anyway? Absolutely.

    Review of The Frazzled Cook (Tomas Morato, Quezon City)

    Ambiance: ★★★★★

    The Frazzled Cook is usually packed and it’s a popular laid-back restaurant where you do not have to dress up to stop for a great meal. There’s a lot to admire once you step inside. Mismatched tables and chairs in all the function rooms look unique and different from one another. Convivial interior with a variety of eye-catching details and colorful accents make the ambiance both charming and interesting.

    Service: ★★★★★

    Knowledgeable staff aptly handled the flow of customers without being annoying. While waiting outside for a free table, we already ordered our food and surprisingly, the dishes were immediately served on the table before we even took our seats. Service was kind and very accommodating. The waitstaff was attentive, prompt, and friendly as well.

    Food: ★★★★☆

    Some of us have “a little bit” of obsession with truffle, and we happen to belong to this group. The Frazzled Cook’s Truffle Pasta (PhP 325) was fantabulous. It was made with mixed pasta, sautéed portobello mushroom, and homemade white truffle sauce. The sauce was well-distributed and did not veer toward soupy or dry. The pasta was creamy and luxurious and not greasy. Truffle flavor was prominent indeed and the use of high quality mushroom was apparent.

    The Tenderloin and Sausage Pizza (PhP 380) was not stringy with the amount of toppings (beef tenderloin salpicao, bell pepper, onions and kesong puti) which were incredibly indulgent. I saw clearly how my fiancé loved it very much. He finished 5/6 slices of the herbed crusted thin pizza! 😛 Yes, it was that good for him. Overall, I thought the pizza was nice but I would have appreciated it more if the pizza dough came out browner and crispier. I like biting into a crisp bottom crust.

    Served with buttered vegetables and gravy, the Spicy Chicken Kebab (PhP 245) gave a delicious smoky and spicy flavor plus an attractive color. The chunks of chicken threaded on a skewer were moist and tender, and the flavor-packed marinade was everything there is to love.

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    With rewarding customer service and remarkably presented food, The Frazzled Cook in Tomas Morato area keeps the social atmosphere humming. Prices are not so cheap but have good value. Dishes have memorable tastes, ones that marry tradition with some modern touches and served with style and civility.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/Frazzledcook/” name=”The Frazzled Cook” description=”78 Scout Gandia, Near Tomas Morato, Laging Handa, Tomas Morato, Quezon City” rev_name=”For inquiries, call 02 2469069 ext:267 or (02) 374-6879″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2016-03-17″ user_review=”18″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

  • Review of B & P (Cyberscape Alpha, Ortigas, Pasig City)

    Review of B & P (Cyberscape Alpha, Ortigas, Pasig City)

    In today’s fast-paced world, a break is always welcome and needed. For those who find rejuvenation in hearty all-day breakfasts, comfort food and great coffee, the B&P Restaurant in Cyberscape Alpha in Ortigas (under The Cravings Group) grants them that delicious respite. Bright and cozy, this friendly restaurant brings a breath of fresh air in the metro neighborhood. It is a new spot that offers guests both indulgent choices and a stylish atmosphere where one can instantly feel at home.

    Review of B & P (Cyberscape Alpha, Ortigas, Pasig City)

    Ambiance: ★★★★☆

    What does B&P stand for? It’s Bea and Pia, the founders of the restaurant. Sometimes, it stands for Breakfast & Pancakes or Bonding & Pastimes, but the new B&P can also mean: Bright & Pretty.

    B&P was designed by Francis “Nix” Alañon, interior stylist of FTA Design and currently editor-in-chief of My Home magazine. His design looked both quirky, eye-popping and fun. If you go through the entire space, you will also notice the different interesting patterns, colors, and textural elements which give the entire place its playful, cheerful, and welcoming appeal.

    We walked around a bit and we have realized that the dining sets resemble a bed with the headboard as seat backdrops. B&P embraces the breakfast-in-bed idea. The walls are covered with tiled egg prints that look really cute. 🙂 Overall, ambiance here is laid-back, casual yet classy, remarkably designed for its market.

    I also loved the charming rustic side of the restaurant. Wall sconces were used for moody lighting, floral design accents were added on the dining table for a touch of femininity, and geometric-patterned wood flooring looked quite eccentric. The only thing I found not likable was the low ceiling on the second floor with exposed “tube paneling.” I thought it should have been camouflaged with wood for a more consistent feel.

    Service: ★★★★★

    Service was exceptional. Everything was well taken care of. Orders arrived fast and waiters were always ready to answer requests. With that kind of treatment, dining at B&P was like visiting a friend’s home.

    Food: ★★★★☆

    B&P Cyberscape Alpha in Ortigas has a steady menu line-up that encompasses breakfast classics, snacks, and lunch-style dishes that are healthy and sinful. We started our heavy lunch with Asian Caesar Salad (PhP 195), which I thought should be aptly renamed to Pinoy Caesar Salad. 😛 The point is: it was tossed in tinapa dressing and topped with salted egg. It’s salty and refreshing with the crispy wanton and organic Romaine lettuce. This is one of those salads that somehow manages to roll lightness and unfettered indulgence into one.

    One of the signature dishes of B&P is their Mang Benedict’s (PhP 285), the unrivaled King of brunch dishes with a Filipino twist. Unlike the usual Eggs Benedict that comes with toasted, buttered English muffin and ham crisped in butter, Mang Benedict’s is the local version of an Eggs’ benedict that came with pillowy soft poached egg and Hollandaise sauce topped with malunggay pan de sal and stuffed also with chicken longganisa.

    In the event, we were served with Mang Benedict’s, Oyster Mushroom Burger (PhP 250), and Pork BBQ Cheese Sandwich (P250) that were all compressed into a bite-sized hors d’oeuvre. Trust me, these comforting and hearty treats are ideal for anytime eating. 🙂

    Served with French toast and homemade gravy, the Beer-battered Buttermilk Chicken (PhP 450) was deep fried to perfection. I appreciated the tenderness and moisture retention in the chicken. Taste of buttermilk was evident and it was divine. The Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top of the breading added a more inviting flavor. Love it!

    The Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Sandwich (PhP 225) was hot and creamy, served with perfectly grilled cheese sandwich on the side. The tomato soup had a creamy, thick, and a mouth-coating texture. I wondered if it’s a dairy-free version though (for vegetarians).

    Carbonara (PhP 265), tossed in bacon and topped with egg yolk, had a silky texture that gently blanketed the bacon flavor without making the pasta taste excessively salty or sharp.

    Burrito Omelette (PhP 230) offered a pure taste nostalgia. Bacon and eggs are old pals. 🙂 Served with tomato salsa, the richly studded fried rice with crispy bacon was wrapped in scrambled eggs. Eat it without drama. It’s nothing complicated.

    An adaptation of wonton soup, the Red Molo Soup (PhP 175) turned out to be another classic hearty Filipino favorite. This is soup that’s best taken during the rainy season. Pork dumplings in tasty chicken and achuete broth tasted great.

    Don Malutong (PhP 285) at one glance looked like Korean bibimbap. Look closer and you’ll see a good mix of familiar Filipino bites: crispy pork belly, adobo rice, eggs and pickled relish. In particular, the crispy pork belly was like the strata of some rock—you get a layer of fat, a layer of meat, and then the skin on top. The crispiness and delicious of the pork will stay in your mouth, mind, and soul for the next five minutes.

    Saving the best for last, we enjoyed the Baby Back Ribs (PhP 475) a lot. Smoky, sweet, spicy, and tangy at the same time, these pork tender pork ribs with barbecue sauce were the bomb. This dish is a great option at B&P, especially for barbecue freaks.

    B&P Cyberscape Alpha Ortigas not only gives rise to healthy choices and comfort food indulgences. It is also set to become the coffee hangout of choice among those who know their coffee and those looking for their perfect coffee mate. Besides being a great location to meet and chat, B&P offers guests a unique coffee drinking experience courtesy of its Di Bella premium specialty coffee line.

    George Daag, Guest Barista from Di Bella Coffee Australia, showed us two methods of making coffee.

    We also tried the Lime Lemon Mango Cooler (PhP 125) and Strawberry Lemon Quench (PhP 140) for our drinks. These juices had a well-rounded sweet taste that’s wonderfully bright and refreshing.

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    Giving a good all-day breakfast indulgence, B&P (Just Like Home) has done a tremendous job in rolling out constant streams of dishes, raising the bar on what comfort food seekers expect from light and luscious treats. In the months to follow, more palate-pleasing items will be added to the menu, courtesy of B&P’s Junior Corporate Chef Angela Villaroman, a young and very promising graduate of CCA, Manila. Prices are okay considering food portions are for sharing.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/BNPhome/” name=”B & P” description=”Cyberscape Alpha, Garnet Road, Ortigas Center, Ortigas, Pasig City” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (02) 9973218″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2016-03-13″ user_review=”17″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

  • Review of Big Jap (24H Apartment Hotel, La Paz, Makati)

    Review of Big Jap (24H Apartment Hotel, La Paz, Makati)

    At Big Jap in Makati, budget-friendly tabs and good service embellish the subdued ambiance. Big Jap is the only restaurant housed in 24H Apartment Hotel. It serves Continental breakfast from 7:00AM mostly for hotel guests and offers à la carte Japanese food from day to night. While this restaurant looks unassuming from the outside, inside this cozy venue, an experienced chef who has worked in Japan produces fabulous Japanese dishes of good quality. Awesome set meals earn plaudits of “wow.” More on these below.

    with owners Raymond and Maritess

    Review of Big Jap (24H Apartment Hotel, La Paz, Makati)

    Ambiance: ★★★★☆

    Big Jap is a relaxed, comfortable contemporary Japanese restaurant featuring sumo as its overall theme. There’s no wresting going on, but I guess part of that concept is that it serves big plates of reasonably priced food made with top quality ingredients.

    Dining area is wide and spacious, so this restaurant can accommodate small to large groups. There’s also a small function room at the back for more intimate dining with friends. This place does not mimic a full-on authentic and traditional Japanese design, but you can still fall in love with its very simple aesthetic that is clean and modest.

    Service: ★★★★★

    Service was kind, helpful, and accommodating. Staff handed me out the menu and gave me the Wi-Fi Internet password upon request as soon as I walked into the restaurant. Orders came out fast and served with a smile.

    Food: ★★★★☆

    Rice Toppings (Donburimono)

    Oyakodon (PhP 175) is a classic form of Japanese rice bowl dish. Oyako means “parent and child” and this makes oyakodon represent “the chicken and the egg.” Big Jap’s version was both delicate and comforting. It’s not too salty and soy sauce was not too strong either. The slightly caramelized onions gave it light sweetness. Putting a thin layer of sesame seeds on the rice prior to laying down the main dish would add a nice flavor and a bit of texture.

    Gyudon (PhP 190) is another popular Japanese dish consisting of sliced beef and egg. Simmered in a sweet soy sauce-based sauce and served over a bowl of steamed white rice, the beef was tasty. I just hoped that there could be an option to add more raw eggs to give out a richer flavor and creamy consistency on the meat. Gyudon, after all, won’t taste as good without a crown—or crowns—of golden yolk.

    With mildly sweet sauce, Butanikudon (PhP 165) was a bit of a letdown for me and it wasn’t very memorably. The pork slices with onion combo was a bit too plain and dry to my liking.

    Big Jap’s Shoyu Ramen (PhP 220) had a very light, clear and thin broth that was mediocre. I thought there are better versions. The noodles were excellent though. They were not starchy and the texture was just slightly springy giving a good bite.

    Eat All You Can Set

    Nope, it’s not a seasonal deal. You can get unlimited Shrimp Tempura (PhP 250 individually), Deep-fried  Tonkatsu (pork chops) (PhP 145 individually), Scallion Rice, and the Iced Tea Special (PhP 55 individually) at only PhP 448. Exemplary! All in this set tasted supremely good. The tempura and tonkatsu were fried nicely and not too greasy. The complimentary sauces (wasabi mayo, tempura sauce, and teriyaki sauce) on the side were well-balanced and palate-pleasing.

    Set Meal

    Big Jap’s Team Sumo (PhP 758) is another great steal. If you find it hard to choose which to order, getting this sumo platter (for four people) will make your day. You can choose among “tonkatsu, teriyaki, or teppanyaki” for Pork, “katsu, teriyaki, or teppanyaki” for Chicken, and “kani tempura, katsu sakana furai, or tempura squid teppanyaki” for Seafood to make up your own set meal. This also comes with yakisoba, nikuyasai itame, gohan and red iced tea. Home run.

    Desserts at Big Jap get an A+ in my book.

    The Buco Supreme (PhP 65) was delicious and dreamy. I’m not sure why and how it’s added to a Japanese restaurant’s menu since it’s not too “Japanese.” Regardless, this is an absolute must-order! 🙂 I enjoyed the light sweetness and perfect creaminess punctuated with shredded young coconut.

    The Coffee Jelly with Ice Cream (PhP 65) tasted like holiday cheer. It’s like a soft flan with vanilla ice cream mixed with coffee explosions in your mouth. Yum!

    The Banana Surprise (PhP 125, big; PhP 85, small) easily became one of our favorites. Topped with cream, the banana fritter in cake form was made with light batter. It was thick, moist, and fluffy! This sweet treat may have cost me a few calories, but it was so worth it. 🙂

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    Big Jap is a brisk ten-minute walk from Ayala. If you’re working in Makati area, this can serve as one of your go-to business lunch spots. Best of all, you can walk right in without a reservation—even if you’re not wearing black designer duds or in a formal attire. 😉 Prices have good value, considering the portion, presentation and the tastes of food. Each dish was substantial in its own way, and for that, we will definitely pay Big Jap a return visit. Thanks to Aldous for the invite!

    [schema type=”review” name=”Big Jap” description=”24 H Apartment Hotel, P. Ocampo Street, La Paz, Makati City” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (02) 2469069 ext:556″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2016-03-02″ user_review=”17″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

  • Review of Misto at Seda Hotel (Bonifacio Global City, Taguig)

    Review of Misto at Seda Hotel (Bonifacio Global City, Taguig)

    Misto at Seda Hotel in BGC is where you can consider having a low-key celebration or a milestone, a special event, or just talking casually with family and friends over a decent meal. With quiet and classy ambiance, this restaurant is projected as an oasis of excellence bespeaking indulgence without a trace of pretension. We came here for lunch last Sunday to celebrate my parents’ 28th wedding anniversary. Food tastes were on point, and the servers made us feel great.

    Misto is an Italian word which translates to “mixed” in English. The reason why the restaurant was named such is that the cuisine it serves mixes both Italian and Filipino food together. While it caters breakfast buffet in the morning (mostly complimentary for hotel guests), Misto provides a varied à la carte menu during lunch and dinner with mouth-watering dishes that can tempt everyone.

    Review of Misto at Seda Hotel (Bonifacio Global City, Taguig)

    Ambiance: ★★★★★

    Interior design is on fleek. The mix of industrial modern contemporary and the elegance ambiance are irrevocably intertwined. Misto at Seda Hotel seems like an ideal place where you can spend a family-friendly, elegant, business-like dining by day or a romantic date at night. Color theme looks relaxing to the eyes, as it has let go of visually upsetting patterns. Nude tones and light shades create a soothing joyful atmosphere to the dining room. Tables are well-placed and seats are all comfy, too. 🙂

    Service: ★★★★★

    Presentation is everything. From the moment I called for the reservation, the service team behind Misto handled booking of the date professionally. Upon entrance, we were given freedom to choose seats and were handed the menu.

    Waiters checked on us occasionally without being obtrusive. Orders were served quite fast. This restaurant for sure has all the elements of a stellar customer service that translates to a great dining experience.

    Food: ★★★★☆

    One of the reasons why we selected this restaurant is that it offers several vegetarian courses on its menu. Since it’s our parents’ special day, we aimed to impress and delight my dad’s palate with vegetarian dishes which are more creative and a bit different from usual home-cooked ones. For appetizer, we got the Spinach Artichoke Dip (PhP 300). Two kinds of bread were paired with the dip. The spinach artichoke was rich, creamy, and velvety. It was so good that we thought it could possibly lead one down a leafy green-loving path.

    Tired of heavy salads that are overdressed? The Classic Caesar Salad with Smoked Salmon and Crispy Bacon (PhP 380) can totally change that tune. With crispy romaine hearts tossed in light caesar dressing and topped with croutons, Parmesan cheese, the salad came with lovely smoked salmon and tasty bacon bits which clang perfectly to the greens. This entree was hearty as it was flavorful.

    Another vegetarian option we had was the Porcini Mushroom Ravioli (PhP 400). The mushroom flavor came through unadulterated. Stuffed with sauteed porcini mushrooms and covered with onion cream, the ravioli tasted earthy and homey. The finishing touch of tomatoes and chopped mushrooms on top added a layer of flavor that elevated what was otherwise an utterly humble pasta dish.

    Misto’s Vegetarian Lasagna (PhP 350) was also a thing of uncomplicated joy. Baked with layers of zucchini, a pile of eggplant, and roasted tomato, the lasagna was topped with momay sauce and served with pesto toast. This is definitely highly recommended.

    To have a true sense of “Misto” (mixed), we did not pass up the chance to have a good balance of Italian and Filipino food. Our top two local picks for lunch were the Bagnet (PhP 450) and the timeless Kare-kare (PhP 650).

    Bagnet, or deep-fried pork belly, was served with garlic fried rice and pickled vegetables. It was intensely crisp and crunchy on the outside and meltingly tender within. Truly, it’s one of the great pork dishes of the world. Try it and you’ll be smitten! 🙂

    Kare-kare, on the other hand, should be perfect for those who want traditional Filipino comfort food. It’s one among the many Filipino dishes that strongly captures the essence of the Philippines’ most unique, idiosyncratic, and underrated culinary tradition. The stew was cooked with vegetables in thick, savory peanut sauce and served with white rice. It’s even better when eaten with shrimp paste (bagoong).

    For desserts, we sampled the classic Italian dessert: the Tiramisu (PhP 350). The texture turned out to be too runny and too creamy, almost like an ice cream in a shot glass. I didn’t like very much. 🙁 It lacked the furry layer of bitter cocoa powder that I was expecting from a wonderful version of tiramisu. More booze and coffee flavor onto the sponge could have added an extra oomph.

    The Chocolate Praline Mousse with Fresh Raspberry Coulis (PhP 310) looked gorgeous! The chocolate praline mousse was indulgent and velvety. It was formed like a ganache, a buttery smooth creation that literally melts on the tongue. Overall, this sweet treat was okay but not exactly what we can call “a taste of heaven.”

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    Misto at the ground floor of Seda brought us satisfying and drool-worthy Filipino and Italian food for lunch. Prices are fair and have great value. We left the restaurant with a full stomach and a happy heart. 🙂

    Seda BGC Hotel is the first wholly-owned and managed brand of Ayala Land Hotels and Resorts Corporation. Seda means “silk” in Filipino and it guarantees a seamless hotel service for guests.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/sedahotels/” name=”Misto – Seda Hotel” description=”Seda Hotel, 30th Street Corner 11th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (02) 9458888″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2016-02-28″ user_review=”18″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

  • Review of Commune PH (Poblacion, Makati)

    Review of Commune PH (Poblacion, Makati)

    After having lunch at Corner Tree Cafe in Bel-Air, we drove up to Poblacion to try Commune’s fluffy animal 3D coffee art which has been trending on Instagram lately. The designs look unbearably artistic and inspiring! If you’re like us who are into ridiculously cute-looking stuff like this, it’s a no-brainer to visit Commune PH in Makati. 🙂 Otherwise, I think you’ll be fine at the confines of this chic cafe while taking a step back and simultaneously admiring the tremendous level of skill involved in making coffee.

    Review of Commune PH (Poblacion, Makati)

    Ambiance: ★★★☆☆

    The aesthetics of Commune looked clean and almost monochromatic, as is the architecture of the space itself. Each of the sections was arranged in a way that encourages social behavior but that also respects privacy. The one at the left of the serving counter featured a tall, high-top, bar-height set of table and stools, offering a comfortable setting for solo eaters.

    Running down the central portion was the long communal table, which is most ideal for those who have a sense of kinship and are fine to overhear their neighbor’s conversation. The one at the right side had regular dining tables, perfect for people who do not like rubbing elbows together with seatmates. When you’re seated here though, you get less opportunity to meet a new friend or a cute stranger. 😛

    Overall ambiance was bright but not too cozy and inviting as more cafes in the city. Adding perspective and working as an accent, the chalkboard wall with writings and scribbles makes up for a more fun and playful environment. The only thing I didn’t like and almost could not stand was the heat. Perhaps this was because we were so near the windows.


    Service: ★★★★★

    Service was kind and accommodating. Seeing the process of how the staff made our coffee was a good experience. It could be tricky to get a grasp on the dynamics. Truly, the execution of the art of the cappuccino we ordered requires some skill that elevates an ordinary cup to something special. There’s a theatrical aspect to it and it’s so satisfying when the outcome looks right.

    Food: ★★★★☆

    We had a quick scan on the menu and did not hesitate to ask the staff which item has the 3D art on it. It’s the Cappuccino (PhP 120), he replied. We had the bear, cat, and dog designs. 🙂 These coffee were blended to perfection and they felt like liquid silk on the tongue. The milk was a little too foamy and frothy but nothing disastrous. We took some minutes taking photos of the “character coffee” before finally taking our first sip.

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    High expectations were met at this cafe with its irresistible coffee designs. Commune must be a new local favorite. It certainly attracts a casual crowd that relishes a “quiet enough to talk” setting. Reasonable prices matched with fair value seal the deal for a great moment to share with friends. Food entrees, and not only coffee, are also available. We have to be back next time to try! 🙂

    Because of my Gourmet Society card, I scored 20% discount off the bill! I won this card from Sam Oh’s Instagram contest a few months ago. Gourmet Society Philippines is a dining privilege card that provides its members 20% off their restaurant bill. With more than a hundred restaurants, they are rolling out more exciting offerings that will change the way dining is done here in Manila. Check out their FAQs page to learn more. 🙂

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/CommunePH/” name=”Commune PH” description=”36 Polaris Street, Poblacion, Makati City” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (02) 2756324″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2016-02-13″ user_review=”16″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

  • Review of Corner Tree Cafe Vegetarian Food (Bel-Air, Makati)

    Review of Corner Tree Cafe Vegetarian Food (Bel-Air, Makati)

    Taking vegetarian fare to amazing heights, Corner Tree Cafe along Jupiter Street in Bel-Air, Makati offers creative dishes with a refreshing change. Tastes set the standard with quality-sourced vegan and vegetarian food delivered in an intimate and relaxed setting. If you want to try all-natural, earthy digs and flee from meaty havens, this is the place to go. Tasting is believing. 😉

    Review of Corner Tree Cafe Vegetarian Food (Bel-Air, Makati)

    Ambiance: ★★★★☆

    Corner Tree Cafe’s ambiance felt homely and inviting. Despite the plain and sparsely furnished interior design, the atmosphere was calm, clean, and proper. It’s an absolutely ideal place for those who want to unwind or have an engaging chat, one where bookworms can also hang out and read books on a quiet corner.

    Service: ★★★☆☆

    The service attendant was quick and helpful when recommending dishes on the menu, but she wasn’t gracious and friendly as we could have hoped. Perhaps that’s understandable since all other staffs were too busy on their feet attending to requests of customers as well.  They were efficient however were so focused on efficiency that we felt hurried and not totally valued as individual customers. There was little eye contact.

    Food: ★★★★☆

    For our appetizer, the Corner Tree Starter Plate (PhP 295) came out as an interesting combination of dukka and dummus. Dukka is an Egyptian fragrant dry blend of seeds, pulses, and spices with warm chunks of whole wheat bread and extra virgin olive oil. The hummus was made of chickpeas, tahini, and black olives served with vegetable sticks. The fresh, distinct, and interesting array of mixed flavors and textures in one bite make it a good option but not a must-order.

    The Spinach Feta Croquettes (PhP 210, 3 pieces) had a nice comforting flavor and were light and crunchy on the outside, soft in the middle. These tasty croquettes were made with spinach, feta, cheese and red rice served with a mint organic yogurt sauce and Corner Tree Cafe’s very own harissa on the side (great for chili lovers). We definitely recommend.

    Made with spinach, roasted bell pepper, mushroom, and three different cheeses, the Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna (PhP 450) was very aromatic and it was an absolute hit. This vegetarian lasagna was about as fresh and summery as it’s ever going to get, creamy and packed with deliciousness altogether.

    A nirvana for a vegetarian’s taste buds, the Arroz a la Cubana (PhP 255) was cooked with flavorful minced tofu, tomatoes, green olives, raisins, and fried bananas with red rice. It was topped with fried egg but that’s optional for vegans. I loved that the plating was artfully prepared, and the combination of ingredients in this dish was both hearty and comforting.

    Price for Value: ★★★☆☆

    Corner Tree Cafe in Makati showcases delectable vegan and vegetarian dishes, so guests can expect satisfaction when opting for their cuisine, especially for the most recommended dishes on the menu. It has received so many high praises and awards in recent years. Being named as the “Best Specialty Cuisine” restaurant by “Manila’s Best Kept Restaurant Secrets” (MBKRS) Awards says a lot about this cafe. Prices are on the higher end of the spectrum but dishes in general have good value.

    [schema type=”review” url=”http://cornertreecafe.com/” name=”Corner Tree Cafe Vegetarian Food” description=”150 Jupiter Corner Saturn Street, Bel-Air, Makati City” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (02) 2469069 ext:147, +63 906 558-6177 or e-mail cornertreecafe@gmail.com” author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2016-02-12″ user_review=”14″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

    Operating hours: Daily 11am to 10pm

  • Review of Tien Ma’s Taiwanese Cuisine (Libis, Quezon City)

    Review of Tien Ma’s Taiwanese Cuisine (Libis, Quezon City)

    Ever since having my first taste of xiao long bao at Din Tai Fung in Singapore, I have yearned to taste them at restaurants that really specialize in making the soup dumplings. My colleagues apparently have the same love for these juicy steamed buns. One day after work, we came to Tien Ma’s Taiwanese Cuisine in Libis, Quezon City with the main goal of trying out their XLB. Fortunately, this restaurant is just a couple of blocks away from our office.

    Review of Tien Ma’s Taiwanese Cuisine (Libis, Quezon City)

    Ambiance: ★★★★☆

    Class, pattern, color—Tien Ma has it all. The interior design is quite focused on the modern Asian look, offering a funkier alternative to more traditional Chinese restaurants in the metro. Minimalist decor and bright spaces are most appreciated. Chairs are cozy and the arrangement of tables on the side create an essential volume of area at the center and the perfect ambiance of elegant celebration. Nothing was oddly out of proportion.

    Service: ★★★☆☆

    Service was efficient but not friendly.

    We have been eyeing on the steamed xiao long bao (R1) on the menu, but for some reason, I mistakenly ordered the fried xiao long bao (R2). Whoops! We couldn’t just have it exchanged since it was already served, and it would be bad to push the blame on the service attendant. Fault acknowledged. The thing that was not so pleasant was the way the order-taker motioned to our table confronting us on the issue in an “in-your-face” manner without subtlety. No regretful face, no smile. I felt somewhat attacked. 🙁

    Food: ★★★☆☆

    So it was Fried Xiao Long Bao (PhP 200) then. We were excited anyway since it was our first time to taste the fried version of XLB. Made with stretchy wheat dough, the bun had a juicy and tasty meat filling. The best part was the crispy, crunchy, fried bottom of each dumpling. We were surprised to find that it still had soup inside we could slurp. Despite that it was fried, it did not end up saturating the dumpling walls. Yummy!

    Hot Prawn Salad (PhP 200) is one of my favorite dishes of all time. Fried with a thin batter, the prawns were sweet, crunchy, and moist all at once. The creamy sauce accompanied with fruit cocktail was quite refreshing. The rainbow sprinkles on top were somewhat inappropriate though, as they reminded me of candies and desserts.

    Taiwan Style Fried Rice (PhP 200) was okay but not any better than the classic Yang Chow Fried Rice. If you absolutely prefer flavored rice than plain white rice, get this. If not, feel free to skip.

    Served on a hot pot, the Seafood Tofu Pot (PhP 199) was a nice bite but not the most memorable part of the meal. There was nothing fancy here; no schtick, no bells, no whistles, and no exotic sauces but just textbook execution. The squid was so chewy and rubbery that is was hard to eat. Palates that await superior seafood tofu pot won’t revel.

    Supposedly a Taiwanese home-style favorite, Tien Ma’s Three Cup Squid (PhP 200) was disappointing. Cooked with salty and sweet soy sauce, the squid was largely rubbery and uninteresting. Its awful texture surely was a telling sign that it was overcooked. While the distinctive flavor of squid failed to shine through, the leaves managed to ratchet up the savory quotient.

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    With this experience, I thought dining at Tien Ma’s Taiwanese Cuisine can be a hit or a miss depending on what you order. I recommend getting the xiao long bao for sure. Prices of food on the menu average at PhP 200-PhP 250 and are pretty reasonable based on the serving portions.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/tienmastaiwanesecuisine/” name=”Tien Ma’s Taiwanese Cuisine” description=”184 D. E Rodriguez Jr. Avenue, Barangay Bagumbayan, Libis, Quezon City” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (02) 3723955″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2016-02-10″ user_review=”14″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

  • Review of VIKINGS VENUE (SM Mall of Asia By the Bay, Pasay)

    Review of VIKINGS VENUE (SM Mall of Asia By the Bay, Pasay)

    Organizing big parties, weddings, and corporate events can be a daunting task. In these occasions, a large and attractive venue that can accommodate over a hundred guests is usually required. Hotels’ ballroom and banquet halls often come to mind, however booking for the space alone (without the food) already entails paying out a huge sum of money.

    For groups that are between 50 and 500 people, you may want to consider Vikings Venue in SM By the Bay, Pasay City. When dining at Vikings Venue, you only have to pay for the food (see buffet rates per head below). Usage of the venue is FREE! 🙂

    Vikings Venue is located just beside Vikings SM Mall of Asia By the Bay. We visited this newest branch of Vikings last Sunday at lunch time.

    Review of Vikings Venue (SM Mall of Asia By the Bay, Pasay)

    Ambiance: ★★★★★

    Fitted with spacious seating, Vikings Venue goes bold with glamour. Overall ambiance looks as decadent and elegant as can be, with stunning chandeliers formed with layers of fabulous crystal balls adding some royal-like class to each room.

    Color motif is mostly muted and not too vibrant, and this simple directness sits comfortably with the ingenious, modern and minimalist bespoke practical elements. Walls between rooms can be “removed” or opened for greater capacity.

    The buffet tables are all on one side (except for the appetizers and bread sections), and the functions rooms are on the other side. This arrangement eases the flow of traffic of people getting food and those returning to their tables.

    Vikings Venue features five function rooms that can be combined into one big function hall depending on the headcount requirement:

    Function Room 1 120-150
    Function Room 2 50-70
    Function Room 3 50-70
    Function Room 4 50-70
    Function Room 5 120-150

    Reservations come on a first-come-first-served basis and must be made two weeks in advance with 50% down payment. To reserve an entire function room, a minimum number of 50 people is required. This is inclusive of the sound system and projector. Stage and platforms may be requested and this will be arranged with a third-party supplier. Tarps and other party decorations for the event will be shouldered by the customer.

    Service: ★★★★★

    Every service offering turned out as an opportunity to have a very personal dining experience. Confirmation of reservation in the reception area was efficient. Service attendants act proactively and friendly. A waiter handed us a crab cracker as soon as he saw my mom cracking a crab by hand. Requests are quickly and professionally accommodated as well. At Vikings Venue, luxury is hinged on providing great service and convenience in addition to serving opulent and decadent food.

    Food: ★★★★★

    The buffet stations looked very presentable. Good times meet giant portions at Vikings’ spectacular feast of scrumptious comfort food, fresh seafood, and tasty meat. Here you get to enjoy a delicious variety of satisfying dishes with extensive Asian and Western cuisines that provide plenty of territory for satisfaction.

    Trying to please a number of different tastes? You can’t go wrong with Vikings Venue. Per an insider, chefs make it possible to cook up certain dishes to guests according to preferences. For instance, if a large group of people who only eat halal food is reserved for the day, the kitchen will prepare a section of halal food to cater to the guests’ palate as part of the buffet setting.

    If you’re looking for the biggest possible selection of food in a large venue, don’t miss this popular luxury buffet restaurant. While you’re there, be sure to load up not only a plate or two. Go for a third round and more, and always save room for desserts. Too full? The gamble is whether to go back for another and risk being wheeled out of the dining room after slipping into a food coma. 😛

    In no particular order, my best bets were: Chinese dim sum (everything!), chuck eye, beef kimchi, roasted duck, roasted porkloin stuffed with fruit cauli mustard grain sauce, tanigue steak with coco cream and crab fat sauce, Malay lamb curry, chicken pastel royale with sausage and mushroom, and assorted seafood with cream and salted egg. 🙂 The Japanese station is my perennial favorite, of course. I loved the dynamite blend of flavors and textures.

    Appetizers

    Salad

    Bread

    Japanese

    Chinese

    Carving

    Western

    Italian

    Grill

    Desserts

    Drinks

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    At Vikings Venue, the tab is well worth if you’re looking for 5-star food and lovely ambiance for a big group. Expect a great dining experience matched with the elegance of an upscale restaurant coupled with the gluttony of an all-you-can eat buffet. 😉

    Reservation is a must even if you’re only a small group of two or less than 50 as it’s frequently crowded and you might have to stand in line for an hour to get in.

    Prices Weekday lunch Weekday dinner Weekend lunch and dinner
    Kids below 3 ft or 3 years old Free Free Free
    Kids (3ft. to 4ft. or 3 years to 7 years old) PhP 188 PhP 388 PhP 388
    Kids (4ft. to 4 ft 6” or 8 to 10 years old) PhP 388 PhP 588 PhP 688
    Adults PhP 688 PhP 688 PhP 1088
    75 years old and above 50% special discount 50% special discount 50% special discount

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/vikingsvenue/” name=”Vikings Venue” description=”By the Bay, Mall of Asia Complex, Seaside Boulevard, Pasay City” rev_name=”For inquiries / reservations, please call 824-3888, 824-4888, 0917-548-4888 or 0998-988-4888 or email reservations.vikingsvenue@gmail.com” author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2016-02-04″ user_review=”19″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]