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Category: Food Reviews

  • Pop Talk GMA News TV Guesting: Lilac Street, Marikina Food Crawl

    Pop Talk GMA News TV Guesting: Lilac Street, Marikina Food Crawl

    Thanks to the endorsement of my KTG Dad, Richie, I had another opportunity to guest on a national TV show, meet interesting people, and gain new experiences that I might not have otherwise had. We filmed a “food crawl” episode of Pop Talk last month in three restaurants that are within walking distance of one another along Lilac Street in the second district in Marikina. It will be airing this Saturday, July 11, 2015 at 8:00PM on GMA News TV so please mark your calendar and watch it. 😀

    Hosted by Kuya Tonipet Gaba, “Pop Talk” features different trending restaurants, travel destinations, and innovative gadgets to audiences weekly. At the end of program, host and guests in the show decide and conclude whether the restaurant/destination/item reviewed is a “pop” or a “flop.”

    Pop Talk GMA News TV Guesting: Lilac Street, Marikina Food Crawl

    When food crawling, pacing is an absolute key and walking in between is always good. Adapting the two-bite strategy sounds most ideal, but when faced with food that look so good, it’s tempting to opt in and eat more to make the most out of the dining experience.  💡 

    Together with Kuya Tonipet (TV Host, GMA Network), Chef Mark E. Bernardino (CEO, Center for Asian Culinary Studies-Subic Bay and Owner of Organico Gourmet), and Ashley Ortega (Artist, GMA Network), I embarked upon the journey of adventurous eating where we sampled a total of 20+ dishes from three of the hottest restaurants now in Lilac Street.

    People working behind the scenes were amazing. I saw how a team of program writer, researcher, camera men, make-up artist, host and guests collaborated and worked to make the show happen—rain or shine.

    First stop: Miguel & Maria

    Freshly modeled and boasting a stylish modern interior, Miguel and Maria has just joined the pioneering old restaurant favorites in Marikina last February 16, 2015 to create a much more vibrant food culture in the neighborhood. Dishing out an inspired mix of ultimate comfort food, this joint served us with hearty European cooking executed with precision and well-sourced ingredients.

    with Ash and Miguel

    Did their food specialties successfully appeal to our palates? With a price point of PhP 180-PhP 300 per dish, does this restaurant deserve a return visit soon?

    Location Address: 89 Lilac Corner Panaroma Street, Concepcion Dos, Marikina City
    Contact Numbers: (02) 4232624, +639989722456
    Opening Hours: Mon-Thu, Sun 11AM to 2PM, 5PM to 10PM, Fri-Sat 11AM to 2PM, 5PM to 12MN

    Second stop: Brad and Pit’s Ribshack

    A sweet addition to the row of restaurants left and right along Lilac Street, this charming rib shack offers a delicious Latin American menu written on the wall behind the counter. Focusing on ribs, wings, sandwiches and inventive drinks, Brad and Pit’s Ribshack is festooned with design elements that preached immense impression of a funky and casual vibe.

    Will this restaurant be able to inspire first-timers to become regulars? With food prices ranging from PhP 149 to PhP 335, is dining here deceivingly expensive or reasonable?

    with Brad
    with Chef Pit

    Location Address: 116 Lilac Street, SSS Village, Concepcion Dos, Marikina City
    Contact Number: (02) 503 1656
    Opening Hours: Mon-Thu 10AM-10PM, Fri-Sun 10AM-11PM

    Third stop: Burrito Brothers

    For four years now, Burrito Brothers has been churning out Mexican fare including tacos, burritos, flauta, quesadilla, nachos and wraps in Lilac Street. While filling food and tasty sides keep customers queuing at this al fresco setting, did we all agree that it’s an impressive place that’s worth checking out?

    Burrito Brothers owner

    Can Burrito Brothers possibly be at the forefront of the “burrito revolution”?

    Location Address: 69 Lilac Street, SSS Village, Concepcion Dos, Marikina City
    Contact Number: (02) 5009637
    Opening Hours: 11AM-11PM daily

    Wrap Up: The Verdict

    The dynamics of guesting as food/restaurant reviewers in Pop Talk included not just stuffing ourselves with enticing food and discovering what’s recommended and what’s not but also judging and describing them critically while in the spirit of a day-long binge on camera.

    To deliver our verdict in terms of food tastes and quality, restaurant ambiance, and price for value after the Marikina food trip, we moved to Breakfast Brothers to reveal and explain our “POP or FLOP” votes individually. Which of the restaurants are a hit and which of them are a miss? My lips are sealed for now. 😛

    UPDATE: Here’s the video uploaded on YouTube. 🙂

  • Review of Chika-an Sa Cebu (Ayala Center Cebu)

    Review of Chika-an Sa Cebu (Ayala Center Cebu)

    Leading a simple menu of Filipino food at its best, Chika-an Sa Cebu in Ayala Center Cebu is quite “the talk of the town” when it comes to crispy pata, baked scallops, sizzling squid ala pobre, and buttered garlic shrimps. It’s one of the best and busiest lunchtime stops inside the mall. This popular chain also has branches in Bacolod, Iloilo, General Santos City, and Davao. When will it ever come to Manila? I’m psyched to know if there would be such a plan! 🙂 Here we tried a ton of great local food without breaking the bank.

    Review of Chika-an Sa Cebu (Ayala Center Cebu)

    Ambiance: ★★★★☆

    Chika-an Sa Cebu has all of the fundamentals to become a consistently awesome must-hit. It is what you can call a versatile restaurant since much like the food, the atmosphere is funky, confident, and doesn’t take itself too seriously. With bright lighting and warm interior, it’s an ideal place to casually hang out no matter the situation or who you’re with. Though I would appreciate a splash of color at least on one side, I liked the brown to neutral tones and the simple arrangement of tables and chairs as they provide a relaxing vibe.

    Service: ★★★★★

    Service was pleasant, speedy, and attentive enough. We didn’t have to wait forever for the food.

    Food: ★★★★★

    Check out their menu here.

    The Baked Scallops (PhP 125) were unpretentious and as expected, still on their beautiful half shells, the scallops were anointed with bubbling sweet butter that’s gently counterbalanced by the very mild seafood taste with a smooth texture. Try to imagine “a little bit of heaven” on your taste buds and you’ll be close. 🙂

    We have noticed that there was hardly a local eatery in Cebu that doesn’t have chicken barbecue available on the menu. Chika-an Sa Cebu’s Chicken BBQ (PhP 69) was nothing more intriguing but its sauce was a clever way of enhancing the flavor of barbecue and harnessing its true potential.

    With well-browned exterior, the chin-drippingly tender and juicy Grilled Marlin (PhP 160) quite resembled the texture of chicken, only a tad more stringy. Flavor was subtle and not too fishy like the tuna. It’s perfect with soy sauce and a dash of vinegar.

    Chika-an Sa Cebu’s Crispy Pata (PhP 245-Small, PhP 299-Large) was a truly killer crispy pata. It had a memorable combination of texture and flavor, and its crunchiness makes it as one of the top dishes in our list of the most crave-worthy eating sensation in Cebu. The most coveted part was the interplay of the crispiness of its skin that shatters in one bite.

    For our drink, we had a pitcher of the Citrus Quencher. Sweetness coupled by a bright citrus scent was natural, leaving the mouth feeling crisp and clean without the syrupy fizz that coats the tongue. If you’re more of a juice person than a soda person, this might also be your thing. Bottoms up! 🙂

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    Good and affordable food in Cebu is not exactly breaking news. Cebu is known as a foodie destination where you can go food-tripping to a lineup of restaurants that serve excellent Filipino dishes plus some real native staples without any gimmicks. At Chika-an Sa Cebu, pricing for the value we got was reasonable. This is one of the restaurants you must include to your list when you want a remarkable dining treat. 🙂

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/pages/Chikaan-sa-Cebu/488767137851654″ name=”Chika-an Sa Cebu” description=”4F Ayala Center Cebu, Archbishop Reyes Avenue, Cebu City” rev_name=”For inquiries and reservations, call 410-6319 or log on to www.creativecuisinegourmetgroup.com” author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-07-06″ user_review=”18″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

  • Review of Aozora Japanese Cafe + Bistro (Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City)

    Review of Aozora Japanese Cafe + Bistro (Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City)

    Japanese food is not particularly hard to find in Manila. Every neighborhood and mall here seems to have a handful of local joints that serve up staple Japanese dishes such as ramen, sushi, and rice bowls. On the other hand, authentic Japanese food requires some digging in Tagaytay. If you’re looking for fresh and organic Japanese food that’s worth getting up off the couch, Aozora Japanese Cafe + Bistro in Tagaytay City is waiting.

    Perched on the roof deck of Domicillo Boutique Hotel, AOZORA is actually the first ever Japanese restaurant in Tagaytay. When translated to English, Aozora means “blue sky,” and this makes perfect sense as soon as you see the amazing bird’s eye view of the city and the Lake Taal under the blue sky.

    We traveled almost three hours to try their best-selling dishes last Sunday and we were heartened to taste Chef Seiji Kamijo Kamura’s specialties. The cooking was satisfying and approachable. Speaking of which, let’s get into it!

    Review of Aozora Japanese Cafe + Bistro (Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City)

    Ambiance: ★★★★☆

    It’s now the start of rainy season in the Philippines. When temperature is elevated, maybe take a cue and elevate your dining and drinking spot, too! The roof deck where Aozora Japanese Cafe + Bistro is located grants you access to a casual, informal and cozy lounge with soft couches to relax on.

    This place also opens up to high-rise views of vistas and astounding nature. Be careful not to lean out over too much or get nearer to the edge of the building, since there’s no glass or wall that can save you from falling down below but strings so fine I don’t trust. Whoops.

    Inside the restaurant, the setting is Japanese chic, with quiet and cozy interior offset by interesting lanterns covered with Japanese paper. Conceptually designed by Budji Layug, Aozora’s decors feature neutral tones and cement-washed walls complementing warm-wood fixtures. A sleek bar serving different kinds of alcoholic beverages is a nice addition to the casual yet trendy setup, attracting a mix of locals and out-of-town visitors. What I found somewhat obstrusive though were the two large posts in the middle of the dining area.

    This place can host as a good venue for birthday parties, wedding reception, and other events. Accommodation is up to 100 guests considering both indoor and outdoor spaces.

    Service: ★★★★☆

    Service was solid and friendly. I mostly appreciated staffs telling us the dishes plus their brief descriptions upon serving on the table. Especially since the restaurant is only two months old, it’s a kind gesture and a good move to introduce recommendations on the menu.

    Food: ★★★★☆

    When it comes to adding a twist of the Filipino cuisine to Japanese, bulalo may prove to be just the ticket. With soup base made with bulalo (beef shank), Aozora Ramen (PhP 295) had a whisper of bone marrow bringing an extra dimension of flavor different from your usual bowl of Japanese ramen. These noodles were imported from Japan and it’s the type that don’t get mushy or thick even after sucking up all the broth. Supported by a simple and savory combination of egg and corn kernels, it’s a mighty “cold-weather” soup that’s a must-try when in Aozora.

    The Rainbow Maki (PhP 320) platter consisted of tuna, salmon, tamago, and shime saba (Japanese pickled mackerel) maki that were all incredibly fresh. I guess it’s the way rainbow maki is supposed to be—presented with colorful toppings of rich flesh plus soft white rice making up for balanced, subtle, and restrained tastes. Yummy!

    Made up of sauteed mixed vegetables with crunch factor and pork, Yasai Itame was cooked nicely but was nothing special. It’s a simple dish that may be able to cure a hangover.

    Crowd-pleasing cuts in dainty portion, Pork Belly Yakiniku with Veggies (PhP 390) were coated in a sweet and salty marinade, similar to its Korean predecessor, kalbi or bulgogi. It somehow had a barbecue taste that’s hard to beat. These thin pieces of pork belly were more like jerky, the kind that will make you smack your lips and make you smile. 🙂

    Yakisoba was another hit. The noodles were chewy, wonderfully seasoned, and firm.

    Mango Tempura Ice Cream (PhP 180) was a delight. The batter was just a bit too thick but still good. Ultimately it had a crispy golden crust that sealed in the mango bursting with flavor beneath. Light and creamy, a scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with chocolate sauce on top came as a lovely accompaniment.

    Kalamancello, an organic drink with 30 percent alcohol, had the zesty essence of calamansi rinds infused into a vodka base. It tasted like sweet lemon or dalandan but more tart, sour, and acidic like lime mojito.

    We also tried Aozora’s signature iced tea. The Aozora Iced Tea (PhP 120) was made with lemongrass, pandan, honey and mint leaves. Albeit thirst-quenching, the pandan taste was too strong, concentrated and overpowering and it’s not a wow for me. Anyway, I still commend the creativity that went into its making. This is best recommended if you like to give your taste buds a thrill.

    To clear our palate and help with digestion, Key Coffee (PhP 95) was served but we had to wait for a while for it to brew. The taste, aroma, and body of the coffee were absolutely inviting. Apparently, it’s the No. 1 Coffee in Japan.

    Price for Value: ★★★☆☆

    With its sharp aesthetic, iconic setting, professional customer service, and appealing roster of Japanese food, Aozora Japanese Cafe + Bistro in Tagaytay is a great date spot by any standard. With its presence, there’s plenty more fun now when visiting Tagaytay for a short day tour. Get ready to be served with classic Japanese fare that’s enjoyable, however this obviously comes at an exquisite price. Itadakimasu! 🙂

    Thanks to Aldous for organizing the event and Ms. Christine Arriola-Villongco for having us!

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/aozorajapanese” name=”Aozora Japanese Cafe + Bistro” description=”Domicillo Hotel, KM Gen. E. 58 Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City, Tagaytay City” rev_name=”For inquiries or reservations, call +6346 4134486, +63906 3501704, +63915 5038800″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-07-02″ user_review=”15″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

    Operating Hours: 7:00AM – 10:00PM daily

  • Review of Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant (Cordova, Cebu)

    Review of Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant (Cordova, Cebu)

    Where to eat in Cebu? You know you’re at the right place when you find yourself in a restaurant packed with dining customers. Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant in Mactan is one of the best restaurants in Cebu where excellent Filipino food come together with drop-dead gorgeous views, a breath of fresh air, and inexpensive bill. This place was an hour of drive away from our hotel in Cebu City, but it was totally worth going for. 🙂

    Review of Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant (Cordova, Cebu)

    Ambiance: ★★★★☆

    We expected that Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant’s staff would ask us to wait to be seated as we arrived at prime time. While waiting, we walked across the entire restaurant and checked out the interior design. Bright green chair fittings add a pop of color to the wooden fixtures that blended well with the “native” theme. Bamboo poles were everywhere, providing a sense of oriental, edgy yet comfortable vibe, as they hearken back to the days of hand-driven craftsmanship of Asian art pieces.

    Surprisingly, there were far more seats at the back, supported with floating platforms where people can watch the boats glide by. Too bad the sky was as dark as black paint and there were no stars to bring even the faintest glimmer. Though we were not successful in seeing good views outside, we could imagine how it would be magnificent at daytime, since Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant has a good prime setting overlooking the sea.

    The jeepney by the counter looked cute and we could not pass up a photo-op with it. Jeepney is the most iconic means of transportation in the Philippines, so having one placed inside the restaurant speaks volume about how the concept of the Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant’s decor style is intertwined with contemporary Filipino society. Nice! 🙂

    Service: ★★★☆☆

    The waiters and waitresses were too busy managing requests and arranging tables and seats for customers coming in. Raising and swaying one hand in the air wasn’t enough, so we did what we had to do. Everyone in our table raised and waved our two hands up high and looked at the servers going to our direction in the eye. 🙂 Yes, that’s what you can call desperation.

    Else, our water glasses would have remained empty for the majority of the meal, our orders would not have been followed up, and our bill would have taken forever to get to us. Because of the extensive space of this restaurant and considering the size of the crowd, I think more staff on the floor are needed to serve customers more efficiently. Service overall was a wee bit chaotic but staffs were friendly.

    Food: ★★★★★

    Our meal started off on the right foot. Warming and soothing, Ginataang Munggo (PhP 120) is a vegetarian dish that’s cooked with coconut milk (gata) and tender mung beans (munggo). I loved that the fragrant coconut milk was able to coat every ounce of the mung beans in its rich and thick soup. The sweet potato tops (talbos ng kamote) hit the right senses with slight bitterness that became sweet after lingering on palate for a bit.

    Soft and succulent, the Baked Scallops (PhP 150) were really fresh with rich melted cheese toppings that made us swoon. It wasn’t just a plate of baked scallops; it was a plate of heaven, and I’m still thinking about it now. So good and delightfully creamy, too!

    We also fell in love with Kinilaw (PhP 175), a Filipino ceviche dish consisting of cubed raw fish marinated in vinegar along with diced tomatoes and spices. A pile of white fish saturated in slightly tangy sauce stung our tongue with a citric punch, and we can’t help but appreciate the perfect texture and firmness of the fish in every bite.

    I don’t think I’ll ever quite tire of the magical combination of garlic and butter. When plump shrimps are cooked with this flavorful pairing, good things happen. These Buttered Garlic Shrimps (PhP 95) tasted delicious and were almost addicting, with sweet bursts of the silky butter sauce brightened with notes of finely chopped garlic. Awesome!

    It would be sad to leave Cebu without tasting one of its finest food aside from the roasted lechon (suckling pig): the Lechon Manok (PhP 250/whole). Even without sauce or gravy, the chicken’s taste was impressive as a heady blend of spices played off beautifully. The skin came out not too scorched and the meat, juicy.

    Some say you can tell how good a Filipino restaurant is by how well they make lechon kawali (Filipino crispy fried pork belly). Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant’s Lechon Kawali (PhP 210) version was on par with the standard quality we expected. The deep-fried pieces were intensely crisp and crunchy on the outside and moist and tender within. If your heart belongs to Filipino food, this is your jam. Order the lechon kawali with pride! 🙂

    Price for Value: ★★★★★

    You can expect a fiesta of wonderful Filipino flavors here at this buzzing floating restaurant in Mactan, Cebu. Prices of food are not astronomically high, so it’s best to indulge when you can. Low prices actually add up to a relaxing time since you don’t have to feel guilty about busting the budget. 🙂 I recommend adding Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant to your list of restaurants to try in Cebu. You won’t go wrong with anything on the menu.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/LantawFloatingNativeRestaurant” name=”Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant” description=”Day-As, Cordova, Mactan, Cebu” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (032) 514 2959″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-06-26″ user_review=”17″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

    Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

  • Review of Kopi Kopi Café and Kitchen (Cainta, Rizal)

    Review of Kopi Kopi Café and Kitchen (Cainta, Rizal)

    Many people rely on coffee and rich drinks to get them through the day. Thanks to Kopi Kopi Café and Kitchen, residents and visitors of Village East Avenue, Executive Homes in Cainta, Rizal don’t have to worry about not getting their coffee fix, as they certainly can run steady on low-key, diverse delights and pastries with extensive options for coffee variants and other beverages—all for reasonable and affordable prices. 🙂

    This cafe opened to the public on July 18, 2010. We recently shot a segment of an I Juander episode at its al fresco setting and tried some of its best-selling items on the menu. (Dishes to be featured in the show are not included in this review.)

    Review of Kopi Kopi Café and Kitchen – Cainta, Rizal

    Ambiance: ★★★☆☆

    While the I Juander Team was setting up outside, my dad and I entered the cafe for some refreshments. We were greeted by a whiff of heavenly freshly baked pastries and a seating area whose theme was quite rustic with vintage homemade touches. Free wi-fi connection is available. 🙂

    Kopi Kopi Café and Kitchen has a casual appeal that’s congenial, one that pairs perfectly with home-style cooking and warm, soothing drinks. However, I found that the tables with pink and yellow cloths placed at the center should better be rearranged to the side instead, to help lead the eyes to the more relaxing tone of the fixtures, walls, and decors.

    Service: ★★★★☆

    Staff helped in fostering a relaxing vibe as they were courteous and accommodating. If you want to explore other bites and drinks other than your norm, just ask what’s good and they will tell you straight answers.

    Food: ★★★☆☆

    When undecided, it’s always best to listen to the staff’s recommendations. We had their famous Cream Puff (PhP 68/piece) and drinks that felt like desserts more than beverages, namely Macadamia Frappe (PhP 88, Large) and Mocha Frappe (PhP 88, Large).

    The filling of the Cream Puff tasted more custardy than eggy. Dusted by caramelized sugar, the flaky puff layers were crisp and distinct. I liked how each layer came together as a sharp contrast to the smooth cream for a well-balanced piece, be it in terms of taste or texture. It was a pleasantly decent mouthful of goodness that’s great with coffee.

    Made from a mocha base that’s buzzed up with ice and maybe chocolate then topped with whipped cream, the Mocha Frappe delivered a sweet punch and packed with a semi-bitter taste. It was thick and creamy with smoothie-like consistency.

    The Macadameia Frappe had a nutty flavor, more like nougat and sweet vanilla combined together. Also topped with cream, this frappucino was decadent, icy, and really nice. It’s recommended for those who have a lesser tolerance for the taste of burned coffee beans.

    After the shoot, we were all hungry for dinner. It was good to know that Kopi Kopi Café and Kitchen also serves many Asian and international favorites. We ordered hearty Filipino classic meals such as pancit, chop seuy, and sisig with rice. Above all, the stir-fried beef with broccoli stood out with its bold, sweet and savory sauce. I just hoped that there’s more garlic in the mix to amp up the flavor.

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    Right next door to the Village East Church, Kopi Kopi Café and Kitchen is a popular local spot that’s deservedly so. The pleasant atmosphere suffusing the cozy dining room matches with a comfortable neighborhood feel that entices patrons to sit, eat, drink and chat for hours. With budget ranging from PhP 150 to PhP 200 per person for a good meal, food and drinks’ price for value are decent.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kopi-Kopi-Caf%C3%A9-Kitchen/135882853126239″ name=”Kopi Kopi Café and Kitchen” description=”No. 5 Village East Avenue, Executive Homes, Cainta, Rizal” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (02) 240-5068 or email kopi.cafe@gmail.com” author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-06-23″ user_review=”14″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

    Operation hours: 6:30AM-12MN daily

  • Review of Vieux Chalet Swiss Restaurant (Santa Cruz, Antipolo City)

    Review of Vieux Chalet Swiss Restaurant (Santa Cruz, Antipolo City)

    June 6—It was Louie’s birthday and as much of a romantic as he is, he brought us to Vieux Chalet, a fine dining Swiss restaurant in Antipolo bustling with great Filipino hospitality, coziness, and fresh air to breathe matched with a stunning view of the city. Vieux Chalet means “home on top of a mountain,” and true enough, getting there was like finding a hidden treasure on top of a mountain with tropical lush lot. We took delight in a picturesque perfect view of the sunset and the city skyline. 🙂

    Antipolo has a lot of unique restaurants where you can have a quick escape from the busy city of Manila and enjoy fresh air and great landscapes. Sometimes it gets me thinking to spend staycations there or even rent out a unit like in The Nest Horizon to experience Antipolo even for a weekend. Luljetta’s Hanging Gardens Spa, Altaroca Mountain Resort, and Café Lupe Bed and Breakfast are some of the more popular getaway destinations. Anyway, here goes my post about our dining experience at Vieux Chalet.

    Review of Vieux Chalet Swiss Restaurant (Santa Cruz, Antipolo City)

    Ambiance: ★★★★★

    In 1984, Mr. Tony S. Hassig and Mrs. Susan R. Hassig opened their home to people in search of an adventure not too far away from their own homes. The dream was to put up something that offers an alternative lifestyle to those needing a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Indeed, Vieux Chalet felt like a relaxing old home, with a stunning view to wake up to, and thousands of sunsets to watch and ponder on. This restaurant left our visual senses satisfied, as it’s certainly a charming escape from Manila that’s worth the almost two-hour drive.

    Apart from the restaurant, there are three rooms for couples to stay and a swimming pool to play and splash in.

    In the dining room, we sat by the window to have a closer look and make sure we won’t miss any of the admirable sunset view and the surrounded beauty. Serenely rustic elegant ambiance hugged the scene, with lots of family pictures and interesting displays and decors on the walls. Jackets and heavy clothing are not required as the restaurant is open-air and there’s no AC. When sun went down, we saw the city in great panorama and enjoyed the breeze in the air. A jewel in Antipolo City, Vieux Chalet Swiss Restaurant is an epitome of feel-good, convivial  fine dining. I hope its appeal never dims.

    Service: ★★★★★

    Service was unparalleled as Rico Doy pampered us and kept us company like friends visiting their home. He was above-and-beyond friendly, gracious and on-cue in accommodating our questions and requests. He’s also too kind to give us the Frozen Lemongrass Margarita (see below) free of charge, since the staff intended to prepare drinks that time has not yet arrived and it was his first time to prepare the said drink. 🙂

    Food: ★★★★☆

    A basket of bread and Fita crackers came as complimentary appetizer. The pieces were well-composed, with crisp exterior and tender crumb, and hearty enough to open our appetite for more coming up.

    After 20 minutes of waiting time, Vieux Chalet’s feast of homemade goodness, the Swiss Platter (PhP 485) was served. It consisted of smoked ham, smoked bacon, homemade ricotta cheese, pate de foie, tomato provencal, shrimp gambas, and organic micro greens, with homemade bread and butter. I thought it’s a great introductory dish to Swiss cuisine because it had one of everything recommended for hors d’oeuvres. The best? Hands down, it was the shrimps, which according to the menu should really have been pink salmon, but the latter was unavailable that time. The juiciness of the tomatoes also sealed a good deal. Yum!

    Cheese pizza isn’t something we would normally get excited about, but the Five-Cheese Grilled Pizza (PhP 725, Petit) here made us want to hit the floor. We were informed that this pizza would be made from scratch, and we had to wait half an hour to have it served. 20 minutes passed and we happily ate the pizza for an hour. We’re not sure how the combination of raclette, Gruyère, mozzarella, kesong puti, and cheddar cheese made a good harmony, but it legitimately blew our minds. There’s also garlic on a tangy cream cheese topped with organic arugula, all underneath the the crispy pizza crust that will make you sweat and tear with joy. So CHEESY, so good. 🙂

    Rico handed us his custom-made hot sauce as a condiment to the pizza. I had the mistake of pouring too much on my first try, and I had to cool my mouth with enough air pressure to “blow dry.” Rico’s homemade extra hot Hot Sauce was insanely hot, the kind of spiciness that could almost take away the flavor of the food. I should have learned from the label ’cause it’s so true; it can make you say “Dimunyu!” out loud, as your tongue would be on fire. Aw!

    We wanted to order more however we were too full to have a second main course. Thankfully, dessert options were not a letdown. The Swiss Chocolate Cake a la mode (PhP 285) was made with homemade Swiss  chocolate cake, chocolate glaze, and homemade chocolate ice cream. It lasted maybe two minutes before it was fully engulfed into it’s new home, our bellies! 🙂 As far as chocolate cakes go, this one is the ultimate in decadence. So if there’s a better way to say “I love you” through sweets, this would be it.

    To cool and cleanse the palate, the Lemongrass Cooler (PhP 145) had a refreshing and perky flavor of lemongrass that’s a bit more fun than your average lemonade or a lemon lollipop in iced tea.

    With alcohol content, on the other hand, the Frozen Lemongrass Margarita (PhP 325) had a subtle hint of tonic’s bitterness and the tangy and sweet qualities of lemongrass complementing and enhancing one another. The sugar found on the mouth of the glass brought another sweet element that helped connect the citrus flavor in the cocktail.


    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    Vieux Chalet Swiss Restaurant in Antipolo has an elaborate menu of Swiss food and extraordinary drinks served by a deft team in swish environs. No surprise, it has garnered a top spot honors in the city. Though prices of items are expensive, admirers like us will insist that a “magical” and romantic meal should not only be based on food but rather the entire dining experience.

    Dining here can be a splurge but when you’re looking to impress, it doesn’t disappoint. As Mrs. Susan R. Hassig says, “Vieux Chalet is not just a restaurant; it’s your Home Swiss Home in the Philippines.” With that, price for value is quite agreeable.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/vieuxchaletswissrestaurant” name=”Vieux Chalet Swiss Restaurant” description=”456 Taktak Road, Sitio Sampaguita, Santa Cruz, Antipolo City” rev_name=”For inquiries, call 02 6970396 or +63 9282888584″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-06-16″ user_review=”18″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

    Operation hours:
    Every day except Wednesdays and Thursdays, 9AM to 10PM

  • Review of Three Sisters’ Restaurant of Pasig (Kapitolyo, Pasig City)

    Review of Three Sisters’ Restaurant of Pasig (Kapitolyo, Pasig City)

    Fresh, authentic, and perfectly-spiced sum up my feelings about Three Sisters’ Restaurant of Pasig, a casual family-style restaurant that started cooking Filipino food more than 70 years ago. We were tricked to think that there were three sisters who thought of establishing this restaurant, hence the name “Three Sisters.” Apparently, it was derived from a radio jingle of a famous brand of talcum powder! 😛

    Lola Rosa Francisco, a mother of five, first opened a small panciteria at Poblacion in downtown Pasig on November of 1941. She named it “Three Sisters’ Refreshment Parlor.” After a month of operation, WWII broke out and her family fled to Antipolo for shelter and safety. There were many families and stores affected in Pasig, and Lola Rosa’s restaurant was one of them. Driven by optimism, she rebuilt and reopened Three Sisters in 1970, and the rest was history. Last Saturday, we took our turn to discover their humble and homey Filipino fare that has been passed down from generation to generation.

    with Paul Pike, fourth-generation owner of Three Sisters

    Review of Three Sisters’ Restaurant of Pasig (Kapitolyo, Pasig City)

    Ambiance: ★★★★☆

    Three Sisters’ Restaurant has recently relocated to a house (turned restaurant) but still nearby along Capitol Drive. Family and friends can feel most welcome with the warm ambiance reminiscent of a home with an air of sophistication brought about by tall ceilings and intricate walls. The chandelier made an elegant and enchanting addition to the quaint and charming dining space which by the way can accommodate about 60 people. Dining here is like having a relaxing meal at a close family friend’s house, and that’s really nice every once in a while. 🙂

    Food: ★★★★☆

    If there’s one item that you should try at Three Sisters’ Restaurant, it must be their signature Pork Barbecue (PhP 48/piece). The barbecue was perfectly cooked, with the outermost layer having a thick, slightly chewy, but flavorful BBQ crust. The chunks of pork had a juicy texture and enough moisture and fat. We could taste the sweet overtones of the barbecue rub all throughout. The edges, however, were quite burnt.

    Lechon can almost be regarded as the Philippine’s national dish, as most celebrations can’t go on without it. However, when you don’t have a crowd that can finish an entire pig, grilled liempo can serve as a good substitute to that calling. Three Sisters’ Inihaw na Liempo (PhP 125/slab) was one grilled treat that’s hard to beat. It’s made up of tender pork belly strips with a smoky and sweet sauce.

    To complete the sensory experience, order the Crispy Pata (PhP 450) with only about an inch of tender fat-oozing flesh and prepare to hear that loud potato chip-like crunch of the skin on your first bite. Yum! Three Sisters’ crispy pata was super good and crispy. We dampened the pork’s effect by dipping it in the accompanying vinegar-based sauce and alternated bites with mouthfuls of java rice.

    If you don’t prefer pork, have a delicious affair with the aromatic Chicken BBQ (PhP 125) and you won’t go wrong. The chicken meat was soft and juicy, and it succeeded to deliver the sweet BBQ flavor as well.

    Pancit lovers will take pleasure in Pancit Bihon (PhP 280/bilao good for 4-5 pax), a veritable mountain of rice noodles replete with vegetables and pork toppings. I liked that the noodles were not dry and not too sticky.

    After eating all the meaty stuff, Pinakbet (PhP 160) should be on your table for it’s a mighty dish that forgives gluttony sins. 🙂 There’s a combination of rich veggies to balance your diet, including okra, squash, eggplant, string beans, and bittermelon (ampalaya) swimming in pork and shrimp paste.

    We simply ended our Filipino meal with Leche Flan (PhP 70) that was slightly jiggly, pleasantly creamy, and smooth. Doused in just enough toffee-like burnt sugar caramel, the cream-colored custard brought a sweet and rich taste.

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    Authentic Filipino dishes that are satisfying in taste and with the budget aren’t exactly easy to come by. For no more than PhP 300/person, dining at Three Sisters’ Restaurant of Pasig is a refreshing way to explore your choice of Pinoy starters, main, and desserts without the limitations of most other places. Your Filipino comfort food are all yours without the intimidating prices! 😉

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/pages/Three-Sisters-Restaurant-of-Pasig/261587217233857″ name=”Three Sisters’ Restaurant of Pasig” description=”10 East Capitol Drive, Brgy. Kapitolyo Pasig City (in front of Ninac)” rev_name=”For inquiries, call 631-4431, 631-9247 or 0917-6362134″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-06-11″ user_review=”12″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”15″ ]

  • Review of Skull and Bones PH (U.P. Town Center, Diliman, Quezon City)

    Review of Skull and Bones PH (U.P. Town Center, Diliman, Quezon City)

    Comfort food. Those decadent, rich, cheesy, fried, and gooey dishes remind us of home, school years, or mom. What really makes a particular dish comforting is that it should not veer far from tradition. This exactly is how Skull and Bones in U.P. Town Center prepares its food and drinks.

    Items on the menu are quite hearty, the kind that provides a little warmth. If you’re looking for a place in Diliman, Quezon City to hang out with friends, this is the place to be. Complete with “university club” ambiance, Skull and Bones PH exudes a sense of nostalgia that will bring people back to the days when life was simple.

    Review of Skull and Bones PH (U.P. Town Center, Diliman, Quezon City)

    Ambiance: ★★★★☆

    The modern setup operates cafeteria-style, making meals quick and easy. Skull and Bones PH’s environment is done up with blue and white theme filled all over with rustic-chic decor composed of university memorabilia: framed pictures on the wall, club rules, locker, trophies, sports paraphernalia, posters, and other campus items. There’s also wi-fi available, so if you’re a student on the lookout for a place to finish your homework or study for an upcoming exam, there’s little room for disappointment here.

    Service: ★★★★★

    Fueled by a high-energy dining scene, staffs were quick and efficient in serving food and handling requests. They’re knowledgeable on the menu and friendly in providing recommendations.

    Food: ★★★★☆

    Is there a better way to start our comfort food adventure in Skull and Bones than with a big, sticky plate of Curly Cheese Fries (PhP 220)? We think not, especially when these deep-fried fries were covered in melted cheese sauce that’s rich and creamy.

    Not a fan of cheese? No problem. Curly Fries (PhP 110) may just rival its “cheesy” version but it’s another comfort food favorite that will have your taste buds screaming for more. It’s plain and simple but very satisfying as a snack. Just don’t mind the calories!

    Next, we had the Trailer Park Mac and Cheese (PhP 290) which was warm and bubbly, topped with crispy pieces of biscuits and pasta finished with gooey cheese melting down the sides of the bowl. If you are feeling sick, don’t have an appetite, or just hungry, this bowl can put the pep right back in your step. I thought it’s too salty though so drinking a tall glass of water afterwards is a must.

    I was quite surprised to learn that Skull and Bones also offers soothing bowls of ramen apart from the usual American comfort food. One particular variant I liked was the Spicy Beef Dorm Room Ramen (PhP 200). The mami noodles were cooked with a dash of Asian-inspired broth and juicy beef that exceeded my demand for quality. Its spice level is not for the meek! Slurp. 🙂

    For an iconic “breakfast food,” a can’t-miss option for vegetarians must be the Popeye Burrito (PhP 330) made with brown rice, black beans, spinach, pico de gallo, sour cream, mozzarella, and Monterrey Jack cheese in a whole wheat tortilla. Wholesome and filling with the proper amount of chewiness, it was the best veggie tortilla I have ever had. Even carnivores would love it.

    The Shrimp Pineapple Salsa Burrito (PhP 490), on the other hand, was served as a perfectly-balanced execution of Spanish rice, beans, garlic shrimp, pineapple corn salsa, sour cream, mozzarella, and Monterrey Jack cheese. A gently crisp crust on the surface of the homemade tortilla came out as a fine bonus.

    Completely comforting in its own right, the Nachos with Pulled Pork (PhP 380) would be a good option to satisfy your craving for heart-clogging pleasures. 😛 As with other regular nachos, the chips went soggy when left for over 5-10 minutes, but showered with creamy cheese sauce, you won’t mind digging it with your fingers (it was troublesome for me to use the fork). The portion was huge so you’ll do a lot better sharing this with a friend or two.

    While there are countless versions of massive burgers and hotdogs around Metro Manila, this joint takes these two prime stars on the menu seriously. Loaded with meaty ingredients, the Pitbull (PhP 300) was made with a beef and pork frankfurter, Swiss cheese, smoked ham, chopped pickles and onions, sliced jalapenos, and garlic lemon aioli. Whoa! The griddle-pressed brioche bun also had a serious snap and looked great with just a streak of mustard.

    The Super Mario (PhP 300) was fierce and tasted slightly spicy. Topped with finely chopped fried and breaded homemade chicken sausage, the hotdog was covered with even layers of sauteed peppers and onions, extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of chili flakes, mozzarella, tomato sauce, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley to ensure a uniform bite. Nestled on a brioche bun, the Super Mario is way better than anything you may remember from your grade-school cafeteria. It’s freaking tasty!

    At this point, my stomach was already full. I thought I could no longer eat more, but the burger specialties have yet to come out. Oh no, haha. After pausing a bit to take pictures, the tasting must go on…

    The Blue Palasky Burger (PhP 340) is definitely not for the timid eater. Huge in beefy, get-the-adrenaline-pumping flavor, this burger was generously topped with blue cheese on a brioche bun lined with blue cheese spread. The sweet caramelized onion relish did a good job in balancing out the richness of the meat and blue cheese and releasing enough moisture to de-glaze the browned bits of the beef patty.

    The Dirty South (PhP 280) was also quite a stunner. It’s made with fried chicken patty battered in rice krispies, topped with shredded red cabbages that tasted both tart and sweet. Imported honey on the burger stood out as strong and sweet and a wonderful addition forming the honey-glazed chicken taste.

    There’s no roadmap on how to eat the Macgruber-ger (PhP 320), but I suppose that anyone who cares about poise like me would use spoon, fork, and maybe a knife. 🙂 Topped with a towering stack of fried noodles, this complex burger was made with Monterrey Jack cheese, sesame sauteed mushrooms, pico de gallo, spring onion, and blue cheese spread. The blend of ingredients had a sparkling effervescence, and each slice was deliciously creamy, because of the different kinds of cheese mixed in.

    The Grilled Cheese Burger (PhP 320) looked like a regular sandwich, but it’s anything but regular. Packed with cheese and beefy goodness, this burger/sandwich was grilled with fresh sliced tomatoes, roasted tomato salsa, and pan-seared butter. Majority of the punch took off from the cheese though. There’s something about the gamy richness of grilled cheese that’s impossible to dislike. Hence, armed with a big appetite, even ardent beef burger purists may once in a while take this to consideration.

    Skull and Bones serves a long list of beverages ranging from juices and soda to beers and cool alcohol drinks. We tried the Gummi Bear (PhP 160/glass, PhP 640/pitcher) as it looked most appealing with cute Gummi bears hooked on a stick. The alcoholic taste was not “in-your-face” strong but was just refreshing. What overpowered was the sweet taste of Gummi Bears which was a little weird in drink form.

    Price for Value: ★★★☆☆

    Combining relaxing old-school ambiance and outstanding university comfort food, Skull and Bones is a great restaurant in U.P. Town Center that serves dishes whose portions are good for sharing. Tastes were pretty decent, going well beyond the holy trinity of burgers, burritos, and hotdogs. Prices are not dirt-cheap but reasonable. A visit can be more than just a meal; it’s an experience.

    Thanks to Boss Spanky for the invite! 🙂

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