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  • Review of Sky Lounge Music Bar (Diamond Hotel, Ermita, Manila)

    Review of Sky Lounge Music Bar (Diamond Hotel, Ermita, Manila)

    We spent Mother’s Day this year at the chic Sky Lounge Music Bar located at the 27th floor of Diamond Hotel, Manila. I know that my mom loves watching live bands perform while she’s enjoying every aspect of the food and drinks on the table. Hence, there’s no other place in Manila I could think of that will be better than the Sky Lounge Music Bar to celebrate her special day. The Music Network serenaded us with songs from the 60’s to the recent years that night. We had high hopes, and are happy to report that the band exceeded all expectations. 🙂

    Review of Sky Lounge Music Bar (Diamond Hotel, Ermita, Manila)

    Ambiance:

    Diamond Hotel’s Sky Lounge Music Bar is a recommended spot for those who want a classy space to enjoy drinks with a date, catch up with friends or even make new ones. It has a laid-back, lounge-like atmosphere where you can just be cool and have fun. Without checking in the hotel, guests can dine in here and unwind. Different bands play music and hit songs nightly starting from 8PM. As the night wears on, the crowd gets thicker and the audience cheers louder, appreciating the music and approaching it in the right spirit.

    Social and energetic, the Sky Lounge Music Bar is a remarkable venue that’s featured with dimly lit corners that exude a late-night vibe even at 5:30PM (opening time). Guests can either be seated at the non-smoking area or at the smoking area. Air-conditioning is powerful so be sure to carry a jacket.

    Service:

    The staff was accompanying and friendly without question. We were made comfortable at the sofa and cushioned chairs and our requests were well taken care of. With regard to the entertainment, song requests were taken from the audience and various melodies were performed to set the mood throughout the evening. Our meal wasn’t rushed and the entire experience was great.

    Food:

    On the menu, Sky Lounge Music Bar offers a simple list of comfort food that are not a fancier version of modern bar delights but delicious nonetheless. Drinks have a mix of juices, soda, and liquor. We ordered Beef Salpicao (PhP 730)—sautéed beef tenderloin, garlic, onion, mushroom, finger chili served with garlic bread, with rice, of course. It’s a Filipino dish that never fails to please whatever the occasion. The beef was tender and juicy with a savory garlic flavor. The sauce had just enough kick. You’ll want to be soaking that stuff up with the bread.

    Breaded fresh squid with garlic mayo dip, the Calamares (PhP 495) was perfectly done. It was easy to bite, not rubbery and not too crispy. I love that it was paired with French fries that were equally lip-smacking.

    Far from bland, the Vegetarian Pizza (PhP 480) was loaded with toppings (white onion, red and green bell pepper, sauteed garlic, asparagus, black olive, tomato, and cream cheese). Taste was superb! The crust was nice, light, and bready, soft and moist inside.

    Price for Value:

    Prices of food are notably expensive but costs were easily justified with the entertaining experience we had at the Sky Lounge Music Bar. With snazzy bar bites, this place is a must-visit. Guests would not need to worry about checking the schedule, as there’s always something going on that keeps music very much alive every night of the week.

    Sadly though, I just heard from Marketing last night that this area will be renovated and be transformed to something else. We’ll definitely watch out for that. 🙂 In any case, we have the rest of May to catch the remaining days of the Sky Lounge Music Bar. Note: Official closing will be on June 1, 2016.

    [schema type=”review” url=”http://www.diamondhotel.com/dining-and-leisure-sub.php?id=138″ name=”Sky Lounge Music Bar ” description=”27th Floor, Diamond Hotel, Roxas Boulevard Corner J. Quintos Street, Ermita, Manila” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (02) 5283000″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2016-05-20″ ]

  • Review of Ninyo Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge (Katipunan, Quezon City)

    Review of Ninyo Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge (Katipunan, Quezon City)

    There’s over a hundred restaurants in Metro Manila that serve fusion cuisine. About half or more may have similar things on the menu, and at least a dozen of them are being run by chefs who have trained at prestigious dining establishments. Ninyo Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge in Katipunan, Quezon City is all of these things, but it’s also pretty different. And more importantly, it’s really, really good.

    Starting out as one of “Manila’s Best Kep Restaurant Secrets,” Ninyo has now become a gem of a dining haven for people looking to escape into a cozy, intimate, and relaxing setting. It’s popular as a venue where momentous occasions (such as marriage proposals and birthdays) are being held. Louie and I celebrated our seventh-year anniversary here last May 1 (Labor Day). He made a reservation a week before and got us seats in the al fresco setting, which is absolutely perfect for a romantic date. 🙂

    Review of Ninyo Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge (Katipunan, Quezon City)

    Ambiance:

    If you’re expecting ornamental embroidery, wooden chandeliers, minimalist-looking table lamps and rose petals scattered beautifully everywhere, there’s definitely something for you in Ninyo Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge. The environment looks very homey, and this is mainly because Ninyo was the Laus’ family’s 50-year-old house that was transformed into a restaurant in 2006 in fulfillment of Chef Nino’s lifelong dream of having a restaurant he can call his own.

    At Ninyo, you can enjoy the garden view at the al fresco area or stay cozy indoors in the first or second floor. This reminded me most of The Sugar Palm in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Both give an impression of a secret garden with an inviting appeal.

    My eyes feasted on the charming setup of candlelight dinner served in the private gazebos, with rocks, plants, and wooden accents on the side. Waterfalls, the fountain, and the koi fish pond are creative additions that make a tranquil space. Light music was played in the background to enhance the mood. It’s summer now in the Philippines but it’s nice that weather that night wasn’t too sweltering hot.

    Also part of the scenery are the love locks displayed at the front part of the garden. Several couples have immortalized their love with their names written on the padlocks. It’s cheesy and adorable. Love it! 🙂

    Service:

    The wait staff was warm, attentive, and receptive. He offered wonderful yet simple service and took care of requests with ease. I liked that the dishes were served in a relaxed pace but not frustratingly slow, just so we could have enough time to talk and enjoy the night while eating. Complimentary warm bread with butter was served at the start of the meal and in between, we were also surprised with a free spoonful of calamansi sorbet to cleanse our palate.

    Food:

    Chef Laus’ dishes are often described as inventive, adventurous, and unpredictable. He never ceases to surprise and amaze his guests with something new or unusual all the time. Food here is essentially fusion, with a heavy emphasis on Japanese and European influences. Marrying the culinary traditions of two countries that are thousands of miles apart and then offering a fresh twist to the dishes make Ninyo truly remarkable.

    We started dinner with a delicious appetizer: Salmon Belly Wasabi Tempura Roll (PhP 395). It takes a lot to impress with us with salmon, but this did the trick. It was filled with pleasant surprises with textures of all kinds! Stuffed with braised gobo and carrots, the bite-size tempura rolls were a flavor bomb of soft salmon with crispy Japanese Burdock roots. I thought wasabi on the wrap of the roll was supposed to make it spicy, but the spiciness was not felt apparent at all. In any case, I’m a fan.

    For our main course, the Grilled Chicken Balsamic Teriyaki (PhP 450) served with grilled Japanese rice, grilled leeks with miso, tomatoes and onion was spot on. The balsamic vinegar gave the tender chicken a great depth of tang and sweetness without being too sweet, while the shiny teriyaki glaze brought a good balance of barbecue sauce and soy sauce with sweet and salty flavors. You can’t go wrong.

    Pasta Alle Vongole (PhP 420) was sublimely simple. It consisted of linguine pasta with Manila clams sautéed in garlic and chorizo deglazed with sake. The silky noodles were coated in briny, garlicky flavor from the sauce and studded with tender morsels of the clam itself. The portion is good for sharing.

    When asked what’s the most recommended dessert, the waiter suggested Chocolate! Chocolate! Cake (PhP 295) and Mango Pavlova (PhP 245). We got the latter. It was a meringue dessert, crispy on the outside but light and fluffy inside, topped with vanilla ice cream and fresh mango slices. I went to the restroom before the plate landed on the table, so I was surprised that it had a greeting on it. Thank you very much, Louie! 🙂

    Price for Value:

    Looking for a fancy date spot in Quezon City? Ninyo Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge won’t disappoint. This is the place to be, if you want to try a mix of Asian and European cuisine. Prices may be quite a splurge, but food came out awesome, and ambiance and service were exemplary. I promise it will be worth it. Double or group dating with a bunch of friends is not a bad idea either. 😉

    [schema type=”review” name=”Ninyo Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge” description=”66 Esteban Abada St., Loyola Heights, Quezon City” rev_name=”For inquiries, call +6324260301/+639175385813″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2016-05-05″ ]

    Operating hours:
    Monday 6:00pm – 1:30am
    Tuesday-Saturday 11:00am – 2:pm, 6:00pm – 1:30am
    Sunday 11:00 am – 2:00pm, 6:00pm – 10:00 pm

  • Review of The Morning After (Solenad 3, Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna)

    Review of The Morning After (Solenad 3, Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna)

    Last Sunday, I participated at the opening of Bow and Wow Nuvali (sixth store). After we set up the IT components, we spent our break time exploring the mall. My dad was too kind to drive us to the venue, so he surely deserved a good lunch treat. 🙂 The Morning After was one of the most interesting restaurants we encountered. It had this welcoming façade that aptly encourages people to walk in and try out the best on their menu.

    At The Morning After, you’re here for pancakes, waffles, Filipino rice meals, pasta, pizza, and all comfort food. You’ll like it, it’s familiar, and it delivers. This all-day breakfast place will be celebrating its first anniversary next month (it opened last May 29, 2015) and soon it will be opening new branches in Metro Manila (UP Town Center and BGC, if I remember correctly).

    Review of The Morning After (Solenad 3, Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna)

    Ambiance:

    The Morning After is as sparkling and immaculate as it gets. It features an outdoor space with a cozy, easy, and carefree vibe. This spot immediately “transplants” you from the busy cit to the countryside. It can be a romantic – bring your date here to turn on the charm. Staying outside is ideal to catch sunshine, but in this hot weather, it will be hard to bask in the glory of outdoor dining sans humidity. The garden theme continuous inside the restaurant with pretty grassy backdrop on one side of the wall. Everything looks clean and vibrant. In fairness, the air conditioning has done its job when we needed it most! 🙂

    Service:

    Service was spot on and friendly. The wait staff described the food and how they were cooked. He approached us with smile and made us feel really comfortable every time.

    Food:

    The Quattro Formaggio Pizza (Four Cheese Pizza) (PhP 245) was made with the most wonderful combination of bread and cheese imaginable. The blending of blue cheese, Italian mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh Laguna cheese came out to be smooth and creamy. On top of that, cheesy bechamel sauce was added, to achieve phenomenal layered flavors. Cheese-a-holics will be mesmerized with the magic. While it’s true that the crust did not bring much to the party, it’s worth to note that the thin crust was both crispy and chewy as we liked.

    Fries, Fries, Fries served with three kinds of dip (honey mustard, aioili, and wasabi mayo) was decent. The fries were cooked three times—not oily, not too salty, and not bad at all. The potatoes were tender and delicious. Sigh, we were deeply contented. If deep-fried food weren’t so calorific, we would definitely indulge in them daily! 😛

    Price for Value:

    If you’re not a breakfast person, trying new things at The Morning After can be good. This restaurant in Solenad 3, Nuvali ably executes the basics of a trendy setting. It’s an establishment solely dedicated to serving well-cooked breakfast and brunch meals at all times of the day. Service runs smoothly and food tastes satisfactory. Prices are fair, with enough portions for sharing. Love it! 🙂

  • Review of Cafe Enye (Eastwood Avenue, Libis, Quezon City)

    Review of Cafe Enye (Eastwood Avenue, Libis, Quezon City)

    I had always thought of it as a coffee shop. Obviously, I wasn’t looking enough. Turns out, Cafe Enye is a Spanish restaurant located just beside Healthy Options in Eastwood. It’s the kind of place where you can just roll into anytime, as it’s open from 7 in the morning to 12 midnight. Test your luck on a table indoors or ultimately sit at the large dining table in the al fresco setting. Either way, you’ll be perfectly fine.

    We had dinner here last Tuesday after work and wondered where Cafe Enye got its name. Luckily, we found Sous Chef Chris Chris Dytuco and had the chance to talk to him before we left. We learned that Enye or “Ñ” (pronounced as enye) was derived from the letter of the Spanish alphabet that’s also collated in the Filipino alphabet (written as “ny” where appropriate). Cafe Enye positions itself as a Spanish bistro that will both be familiar and different for diners who appreciate “colonial Spanish cuisine.”

    Items on the menu range from straightforward Spanish plates to dishes inspired by colonies in Northern Morroco, Mexico, Argentina and the Philippines. Aside from the specialty food, a variety of drinks such as coffee, tea, wines, cocktails, craft beers, and other blended drinks are thrown in the mix.

    Review of Cafe Enye (Libis, Quezon City)

    Ambiance: ★★★★☆

    Cafe Enye is one that’s suited for a date or a night out with friends. Ambiance wise, the restaurant looked quite presentable. In different parts of the room, accent lighting worked to emphasize the beautiful textured walls and improve a customer’s sense of well-being and orientation. Warm and inviting, the fiery hues of the décor made for a warm summer’s evening whatever the weather. Wooden and rustic finishes of tables seemed reminiscent of the classic country look. I like the different types of chairs arranged across the room as they showcase flexibility for guests to choose where they’d want to be seated to maximize comfort and sociability.

    Service: ★★★★★

    Staffs were friendly and informative. Hospitality went above and beyond. I’m not very familiar with the names of Spanish food so I really appreciated it when the waiter guided us through the menu. Aside from the bare minimum (clearing plates, refilling drinks, etc.), he anticipated our needs, made us feel welcome and ensured our satisfaction throughout our stay.

    Food: ★★★★★

    Having Spanish food for a meal is a solid move to get to know someone, with the inherent shareability of small plates (tapas, as they call it).  For appetizer, we shared the Enye Callos Buns (PhP 135). Soft and savory, the buns were filled with slow-cooked callos (beef tripe). Sitting neatly on crispy shoestring potatoes, the Enye Callos Buns tasted sweet and savory, almost like those of Tim Ho Wan’s famous pork buns but with a Spanish twist. Once bitten, an explosion of delicious flavor enters your mouth. It’s quite the party!


    Gambas Enye Style (PhP 350) is just about the ideal tapas bar snack. Topped with garlic chips and garlic chives, the succulent shrimps were cooked in garlic infused olive oil and roasted garlic. If you love garlic, expect this to be a great treat. The oil swimming in the earthenware dish sings high notes of layered garlic flavors, it can be transcendent. This appetizer was one of our favorites.

    Cafe Enye’s Calamares Salad (PhP 250) was surprisingly awesome, far more than just pescetarian patronization. Lots of thought went into their crunchy leafy greens and bits of calamari. The best of the bunch was the “secret” green onion dressing which was rich and full of flavor. This dish delivered it in spades.


    Bacalao Mantecato (PhP 245) is new in my book and it gets a big thumbs up. Thickened in cream and mashed potatoes, the bacalao (salt cod fish) was topped with salted egg and crispy garlic. Trust me, it’s a must-order. If you have any inclination toward fish, this could be your best dish of the night. Eat it with the crisp slices of bread to balance the flavor.


    Looking for a little carb action? Get the Fish Mojo Skewers (PhP 380). It’s comprised of two sticks of citrus marinated fish skewers served with Enye rice, cilantro yogurt, Harissa and Latin salsa. Combined with many flavorful spices in one plate, this was like a “choose your own adventure” kind of entree in delicious rice. With a touch of slight hotness and a not-too-thick texture and consistency, Fish Mojo Skewers is a tough combo to hate on.


    Our last main course was the Enye Cocido (PhP 395). It’s a classic Spanish stew of chicken and pork with carrots, cabbage, and plantains served with eggplant relish and Enye rice. I suspect it took some time to cook the chicken and pork because meat is so tender. These had the type of luscious texture that makes it tough to put your fork down. Well executed, it’s a welcome addition to any group of two or three people.

    For desserts, we had the house signature Churros with Dulce de Leche Cream (PhP 170)—homemade light pate a choux pastry with dulce de leche red egg and chocolate-peanut butter dips. We liked that the churros were crispy and golden on the outside and chewy and dense and creamy on the inside. Dulce de leche dip was twice better than the other.

    Lastly, we tried the Creme Catalan (PhP 185). classic vanilla and orange zest infused custard topped with fresh fruits and served with a shot of artisan espresso. The waiter suggested that the best way to eat it is to take a spoonful of Creme Catalan and then a shot of the espresso right after. All in all, this entrée tasted sweet and bitter both in extreme levels, a lot like life.

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    At closer inspection, Cafe Enye in Libis to me is a sophisticated yet approachable Spanish cafe/bar/restaurants where patrons can grab cool drinks and enjoy a wide array of delicious Spanish food. Here you will encounter a chic setting replete with cozy atmosphere. Considering that food portions are good for sharing, prices are decent.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/2015enye/” name=”Cafe Enye” description=”Ground Floor, Excelsior Building, Eastwood Avenue, Libis, Quezon City” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (02) 6713230″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2016-03-27″ 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.

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  • 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. 🙂

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