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Review of Rosanjin Japanese Restaurant (SM Megamall, Ortigas, Mandaluyong City)

Love Japanese food? Pamper your taste buds at this lovely Japanese restaurant located at SM Megamall’s Fashion Hall. Rosanjin Japanese Restaurant opened in September 2014, and just last July, it has updated its menu to highlight food entrees that are unique and specially available only in its joint, so you can be smitten anew. Two among the top best-selling dishes are Tobanyaki and Kaminabe. Presented with art and love, they produce the most “wow” moments for diners. More on these below.

Review of Rosanjin Japanese Restaurant (SM Megamall, Ortigas, Mandaluyong City)

Ambiance: ★★★★☆

Overall interior design was simple and classy, with floral wallpaper on one side of the dining room and Japanese-style windows on the other. With serene dark furnishings and intimate surroundings, the ambiance echoes most of its creativity with the gasp-inducing upside-down umbrellas (wagasa 和傘) hanging from the ceiling. Whoever has thought of this decoration must be blessed with a pair of eyes that can easily define what looks most endearing. Almost every table is outfitted with an electric stove top so dining guests can cook food with convenience.

Service: ★★★★★

The staff were extremely polite and professional, making us feel at ease. They were able to explain dishes well and provide great recommendations. The food arrived timely and were nicely presented. I’d like to thank Pearl and the owner, Mr. Ken, for the warm welcome and accommodation.

Food: ★★★★★

Tobanyaki Australian Rib Steak (PhP 380) was served raw with bite-size pieces of tofu on an earthenware called “toban.” This dish is cooked in 7-10 minutes using the traditional Japanese way—with toban’s high quality heat reserve and ultra-red lay effect.

The seasoning of the rib steak was very simple, hence it came out with the true flavor of the beef itself. Juicy, tender, and super soft are the best adjectives to describe the steak, or “perfectly executed” in sum. Three kinds of sauce made good companions for the meat, but we especially loved the yakiniku sauce. Try it!

The Seafood Kaminabe (PhP 400, Regular) is another interesting dish to consider at Rosanjin. Kaminabe translates to “Japanese Paper Hotpot” in English, and this steamboat dish has its ingredients literally laid out artistically in a pot made of paper that doesn’t burn even when cooked directly under fire.

It’s fascinating to learn that the secret behind it is with the special coating on both sides of the paper. A thicker layer that has direct contact with the flame keeps the temperature lower than 160 degrees Celsius, and this manages to withstand the heat, keeping it from burning while cooking food in it (as long as there’s still soup).

The sharp bitter taste in the soup is lessened. What results is a sweet soy sauce-based soup with fresh-tasting shrimps, scallops, and buri loaded with seafood flavor without grease. Like the tobanyaki, kaminabe also has a cooking time of 7-10 minutes.

Harmonious on the palate, the Chicken Teriyaki Roll (PhP 150) is an absolutely delicious mixture of sweet, sticky teriyaki chicken, and crunchy cucumber with a chili on top as an added spice. This can be a proof that big flavors come in small packages. 🙂 I highly recommend getting this instead of a platter of typical sushi fare.

Salmon Carpaccio (PhP 250), an Italian fusion sashimi, is a refined seafood entree and worth an order every time. The presentation, with mayonnaise flavored sauce at the center, is sure to get some oohs and ahhs from the table. The fish tastes like it just came out of the ocean. It brings everything to the next level. Squeeze the lemon and enjoy it with the sliced tomato, cucumber, and onions in one mouthful. Yum!

Served well-chilled, the Green Tea Pudding (PhP 150) topped with red beans and cream turns out to be a perfect light, sweet ending to a ginormous Japanese meal. Taste is far from the sweet territory, but you can’t go wrong.

Price for Value: ★★★★☆

Walk into SM Megamall Fashion Hall and you will find plenty of restaurants that specialize in different cuisines. Go to Rosanjin if you are looking for a fresh way to sample the flavors of Japan. For those who have not tried Japanese food for a long time, this is a good spot to take the plunge. With great quality and tastes of food, prices are reasonable and won’t upset the wallet. Come with a big appetite. 🙂

Special Anniversary Promotion:

Rosanjin Japanese Restaurant will be having its first anniversary celebration this coming September 20, 2015. On that day specifically, guests can have an order of California Maki (six pieces) for only PhP 1 if they get either Tobanyaki or Kaminabe.

Year-long Birthday Promotion:

As a treat, birthday celebrants can enjoy Tobanyaki, Ramen, or Sukiyaki for free when they dine in at Rosanjin (no minimum order or number of guests required). Plus, staff will sing/serenade them with a song, take a picture with them, and present the picture taken with a frame.

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September 1, 2015
Review of Susi Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurant (Bonifacio Global City, Taguig)

For most people, the idea of gourmet vegan cuisine is a head-scratcher, but it seems that Susi does not shy away from the challenge. Susi Vegan and Vegetarian in BGC provides interesting, “clean” eats with enough options that are 100% vegan (gluten-free, meat-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and cruelty-free). How does this kind of food satisfy? Does this vegan joint mimic the flavors of meat in its cooking? Can this be considered “heaven” for vegans? We ordered four of its best-selling dishes to find out.

Review of Susi Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurant (Bonifacio Global City, Taguig)

Ambiance: ★★★★☆

Susi Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurant, a two-story sleek spot with white and polished wood walls, turned out as a host of greens and creative vegan eats. The ambiance here can be described as a pleasant departure from noisy bars and restaurants in Forbes Town Center. Quirky decors, dim lighting, and comfortable seating enhance aura of peace and satisfaction, making it an ideal place to hang out and carry long conversations over a nice meal. In addition to items on the menu, packed snacks as well as memorabilia are displayed for selling beside the counter.

Service: ★★★★★

Service was spot-on. The staff made it a point to make everyone happy with their friendly accommodation and cheeriness. On each table, there were buttons for us to press if we need to call their attention for any request. These served as a discreet way of alerting them for assistance. I tried pressing a button once and was glad that it worked. Overall, our needs were met with prompt and efficiency.

Food: ★★☆☆☆

At one glance, Susi’s menu was impressive. Distinctive names of dishes with elaborate descriptions were written, and these were not classic digs we normally find in other vegetarian restaurants. It was also great that enthusiastic servers were present to explain them further. We took in their best recommendations and had the following:

Sea Shepherd’s Pie (PhP 345) is said to be one of the most comforting vegan dishes. Susi made it with the classic mashed potato crust, but taste executed fell flat. The mashed potatoes could have been more flavorful when topped with cheese, cream, or fresh herbs. Proportions of salt and pepper should also be increased at pleasure, and perhaps a bit of chopped thyme or oregano would have delivered better embellishment and matched in flavors, too.

Beet burger with chimichurri, cream cheese, pico de gallo, and sweet potato wedges made up the Instagram-worthy El Chimichurri (PhP 475). The burger bun wasn’t made of wheat, oats, or gluten but still it provided textural interest. It was hard and robust enough to stand up under the pressure of biting into a bun. As for flavor, the “beet patty” did not taste anything artificial but was earthy and quite bland. What enhanced the taste was the chimichurri, a delicious green sauce originally from Argentina. Sadly though, the result was still not as savory and decadent as we expected. The burger was a tad dry for our liking.

The Emerson (PhP 495) consisted of baked lentil-mushroom loaf served with zucchini-aubergine ratatouille and mashed potatoes. While made with wholesome ingredients and healthfully prepared, taste was nothing other-worldly. We were looking for the hearty, umami flavor of the lentil and mushroom combination and sorry to say, this dish just missed it. 唔好食 🙁

Tender rice grains in the Quinotto (PhP 415) held their shape and retained a pleasantly chewy texture that’s not too mushy. Topped with fresh lemon zest strips, teriyaki quinoa risotto with tamari-glazed king oyster mushroom scallops was surprisingly filling. With slightly nutty and a little sweet taste, this cohesive dish was the tastiest among these four however the overall flavor did not win us over.

Price for Value: ★★☆☆☆

Plant-based food gets a delicious spin at Susi Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurant in Burgos Circle. The guilt-free dishes we tried might not have been right up our alley, and tabs are not so affordable either. Nonetheless, they were still worth a try. The textures and ingredients used to make food presentations were inventive, and these can possibly convert meat eaters to become vegans/vegetarians. 🙂 Check it out!

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August 18, 2015
Review of Feta Mediterranean Restaurant (Greenhills, San Juan City)

I don’t frequent Greenhills, San Juan area so every visit should make a sizable impression. Last Sunday, I sat down with savvy foodies to try out the best-selling dishes of Feta Mediterranean restaurant along Annapolis Street.

Specializing mostly in Turkish cuisine, this dining spot is alluring. Every dish served is 100% authentic as prepared by its Turkish chef, and you can’t go wrong with any of its creative, beautifully rendered food paired with original Turkish drinks. Feta Mediterranean is a cavernous setting with colorful and modern furnishings completing a wonderful experience particularly for large groups.

Review of Feta Mediterranean Restaurant (Greenhills, San Juan City)

Ambiance: ★★★★☆

Feta Mediterranean Restaurant in Greenhills (at the back of Promenade) is the kind of place where you won’t get intimidated since there’s plenty of room to move around in. Soft seating, coffee tables, community seating, and family-style dining setup are all available, attracting a wider customer base. I like that the dining area is spacious and the fixtures’ arrangements look good when standing at eye level. This totally made me feel less cramped or trapped.

The overall interior design has splashes of candy colors coming into play which carry a casual vibe and give it more pop. The bright lighting and Turkish background music as well played a part in making up its playful and upbeat atmosphere.

Service: ★★★★★

The staff were eloquent in providing details about each dish on the menu. They were very friendly, welcoming, and accommodating. All our requests were dealt with immediately and with a smile. This epitomized great customer service that you will come back again and again for.

Food: ★★★★★

Feta Medi knows its market well, and they’re always doing something to cater to the ‘hood. On the menu, the best-selling items and favorites are marked, so first-time customers won’t be bewildered in choosing which to go for.

To start the meal, we had the Mezze Platter (PhP 500)—a sampler of five mezzes. It’s made up of gharnoush (mashed eggplant dry yogurt), tzatziki (yogurt, cucumber, and dry mint), ezme (tomatoes, onions, peppers, herbs, olive oil), eggplant salad (grilled eggplant, chopped vegetables, drizzled with olive oil), and hummous (mashed chickpeas, blended with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, served with pita bread). Slathered on the warm puff bread (ancient pulled hollow bread) or added to, well, everything else we ordered, this appetizer was a real winner. It’s a visual stunner and every mezze was unique and interesting.

Feta Media also nailed on its Mediterranean Pizza (PhP 150), which was made out of a healthy thin dough topped with minced meat, served with side salad and sliced lemon. The crust was resoundingly crispy and the spices had their way of tantalizing my taste buds, just as I liked.

Onto the main courses, we tried the Pesto Linguine (PhP 259). Topped with feta cheese, this pesto pasta looked familiar but it swapped the usual pine nuts with walnuts. Nonetheless, it passed the taste test with flying colors as pesto beautifully clung to the pasta. The linguine was cooked perfectly with a good ratio of sauce to noodles.

Drinking the Yogurt Shake Ayran (PhP 129) after a mouthful of the “green pasta” added a lovely tang. This Turkish yogurt beverage with salt is an all-star drink in Turkey and is also very popular in Middle Eastern countries. I was so pleased that I did not have to go outside the country to have a sip. 🙂 It’s thicker compared to the fairly runny consistency of regular yogurts, dense, creamy and packed with protein.

Next, Grilled Moroccan Lamb Chops (PhP 590) were served with mashed potatoes and this meaty plate was an unexpected delight for me. One taste and it’s kapow! Seasoning was rich and deep. I love the hot sauce and mayo garlic as complementary dips. Mix them together and don’t be afraid of heat! 🙂

Filled with tasty layers of baked eggplant, Vegetarian Moussaka (PhP 280) topped with mozzarella cheese and tomato slices was a leisurely bite. It had a great aroma and subtle sweetness. Plain bread fresh from the oven accompanied the dish and made it taste more inviting.

There’s nothing wrong to have the Turkish Breakfast (PhP 300, for 2) while eating lunch or even dinner. Consisting of a plate of tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta, this classic Turkish favorite came with plain bread and menemen with ekmek.

I highly recommend this dish when you’re hungry but crave for something light. Softly cooked with tomatoes, green chili, and fresh eggs, Menemen (Turkish Scrambled Eggs) turned out to be seriously tasty. The good news is that you can order it alone at PhP 150. Awesome stuff.

Mixed Souvlaki Platter (PhP 1350, for 4) can be described as the stark opposite of the breakfast platter. Great savory depth and heavy meat flavor did not hold back an attack. Loaded with adana (ground lamb kebabs), chicken wings, souvlaki chicken, Mediterranean pizza, and shawarma, the bold flavors worked out well. Salt and proper mixing ensured that the meat came out juicy with a pleasantly springy texture. For sure, it’s a must-try dish for certified meat lovers who have a big appetite.

Feta Medi’s Beyti (bay-tee) (PhP 350) was another crowd-pleaser. Never mind the unfamiliar name and just dig in. Made with grilled ground chicken wrapped in lavash and topped with iskender sauce Haydari sauce, this chicken dish won’t make you swoon the same way as in the Mixed Souvlaki Platter but can make you feel like receiving a big warm hug from within. Yes, it’s delicious especially with iskender (Turkish yogurt dip).

Concentrated, silky, and intense all at once, Turkish Coffee (PhP 125) contained in a cute little cup was exceptionally dark and bitter. There’s a choice to add in sugar. We tasted it both with and without, and I ended up favoring the true and original taste of the coffee without the infused sweet.

When in Feta Medi, it’s also a good idea to settle in with some Turkish desserts. My top pick had to be the Profiteroles (PhP 180)—choux pastry balls filled with cream and topped with chocolate syrup. This puff pastry is all you need to enjoy your sugar rush. Its addictive contrast of cream and chocolate will keep you going back for bite after bite. 🙂

The Kanafeh/Künefe (Sweet Cheese Pastry) (PhP 380, for 4) was also not a letdown. Neutral, non-salty, stringy and crispy golden brown cheese in between layers of light flaky pastry…WOW! It’s one that continued to haunt my dreams—both sleeping and waking—long after I got back home. 😀

Price for Value: ★★★★☆

I’m sure this won’t be the last time that I would be taking delight in Turkish food because Feta Mediterranean made such a good impression of it. My mind was pretty blown by the tastes of food here, and I didn’t expect that. Prices in this restaurant are fair and reasonable, considering the portion and quality of ingredients. PhP 500/person must be more than enough to make one really full and satisfied.

Thanks, Aldous, for the invite!

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August 15, 2015
Review of Caruso Ristorante Italiano (Bel-Air, Makati City)

Permeating a classy vibe, Caruso Ristorante Italiano in Nicanor Garcia Street, Makati (an easy walk from SM Jazz Mall) is where dishes are expertly prepared and enhanced with a solid wine list raising the bar for your mealtime pleasure. This restaurant which started operating since 15 years ago was named after Enrico Caruso who’s regarded by many music lovers as the greatest Italian operatic tenor of all time.

Caruso is a high-end authentic Italian restaurant offering a cozy, quaint ambiance for customers who appreciate fine dining and delicious Italian food. It’s a popular choice for expats and a date-night nexus of romantics. Louie and I had lunch here last Saturday with its owner, Emilio Mina, and Online Community Marketing Manager, EJ Santos, as our kind and gracious hosts.

Review of Caruso Ristorante Italiano (Bel-Air, Makati City)

Ambiance: ★★★★★

The interior design of Caruso Ristorante Italiano looked like a page out of Italy. And why shouldn’t it be, this restaurant has a traditional look with rustic furniture and wooden white-clothed tables. Lightning levels and spaciousness complete the atmosphere where people can unwind in an intimate setting. Soft music playing on the background added to the unpretentious charm.

The place also finds personality with paintings/artworks and fine wine bottles displayed at the bar section and some hanging on the walls. It’s exactly where I can imagine men in suits and women in beautiful dresses get together for a refined meal. Speaking of attire, wearing of shorts, sando, and slippers is not allowed inside.

Service: ★★★★★

The staff were all knowledgeable on the menu and they provided exquisite service. Since items on the menu are in Italian, first-timers who find it difficult to understand and order may find it best to allow the waiters to drive recommendations while they ride along. Every request was handled promptly and effectively, and personal attention made us feel more welcome.

Food: ★★★★☆

Our meal began on a high note, with a complimentary round of freshly baked Focaccia bread delivered to the table. As dip, the combination of balsamic vinegar and olive oil was deceptively simple yet tasty, resulting in a mouthwatering epicurean delight. Much like French fries with your burger, this bread can be treated as a good “sidekick” for any main pasta entrée as well.

La Risacca Salad (PhP 860) consisted of juicy chunks of tomatoes and plump shrimps in tortella. The shrimp’s taste was straightforward and won the perfect marriage of sweet and savory right in a bite. Yes, it was appetizing albeit not too bold and exciting in terms of flavor. We just wished there were more basil leaves or lettuce to the salad. It’s a good move to get this dish, if you’re not much of an adventurous eater.

Given choices for pasta, which would you prefer: red, white, or green? The good news is that in Caruso Ristorante Italiano, the answer can be all of the above. A long list of different kinds of pasta is available on the menu, and customers are free to choose three kinds of pasta in seafood sauce to be served in one plate. Note: Portions are rather small compared to the full-fledged/regular portion.

We had Spaghetti Aglio Olio e Peperoncino con Vongole (PhP 590 – regular size)—spaghetti with garlic, olive oil, chili and clams, Garganelli in Salsa di Pomodoro e Gamberetti (PhP 630 – regular size)—homemade garganelli with shrimp and tomato sauce, and Tagliolini Portofino con Salmone e Caviale (PhP 750 – regular size)—homemade taglioni with salmon and caviar. All three were creamy and perfectly seasoned, neither heavy nor greasy.

Capping off our carbs quota, the Tagliatelle Alla Crema di Tartufo (PhP 680) was finished with truffle cream and topped with the lovely parma ham. It’s both decadent and comforting, with a hint of truffles.

In a world filled with too many kinds of pizzas, the awesome flavor of cheese may be one of the most basic edible explanation proving why classic cheese pizza is a hit. Boasting the three colors of the Italian flag—red (tomatoes), white (Mozzarella cheese), and green (basil), the Margherita Pizza (PhP 670) was simple and just timeless. I would have found it more remarkable with a thinner and crispier crust.

The Margherita with Mozzarella Bufala (PhP 980) was presented with a slight upgrade from the Margherita Pizza; that is, with the snowy white bufala mozzarella cheese featuring a mild and slightly sour taste. The pizza crust was about the same, soft and a bit chewy.

For dessert, we had the deliciously creamy classic Italian Panna Cotta (PhP 360) which took me like on a mini Italian vacation while relishing it with my eyes closed. The concoction of this sweet pudding-like treat can put the regular panna cotta or leche flan we know to shame. Its texture was so good I just can’t get enough! 🙂 Obviously, it’s a must-try.

Punctuating the end of lunch was Caruso’s Tiramisu (PhP 360), which was likewise flavorful without being too dense. Those layers of cocoa-dusted mascarpone, coffee syrup and sweet, light cake were definitely delightful. Once you taste heaven, you wouldn’t to come back down to earth.

As a good wine paired to every dish, we tried the Prosecco Brut Treviso Agr. Venegazzù Veneto (PhP 380/glass, PhP 2800/bottle) (second from the left on the picture below) which brought out the fruity taste of tomatoes and the inherent sweetness of the cheese, framing up the integrity and quality of the other ingredients overall. It was zesty and enjoyable, party in the mouth! 🙂

Price for Value: ★★☆☆☆

So far, at Caruso Ristorante Italiano, price for value does not quite deserve a standing ovation. Classic Italian fare served with flair and care is what you’ll find here, so it’s probably best to consider it a distinguished night out and you won’t be mad. In any case, if you’re a seriously loved-up fan of Italian food or celebrating a special occasion, it’s okay to indulge without minding the high prices, as food tastes and ambiance surely won’t make you feel disappointed.

Bon appétit! 🙂

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Operating Hours:
Lunch 11:30AM-2:30PM
Dinner: 6:00PM-11:00PM

Upcoming Event:

Caruso will be hosting KIDSPIZZA Awards, a painting competition for children under 11 years old, starting from September 13, 2015 until November 29, 2015.

A. 11:00AM to 3:00PM – Lunch at Caruso with Pizza Shape of Winnie the Pooh and other animals like the cat, fish, duck, etc. or their usual pizza and menu.
B. Children who will participate in the competition have to give their three paintings made at home to the judge representing Galeria Astra.
C. The painting will be submitted to three famous judge-painters. The declaration of winners will be on November 29, 2015 in Galeria Astra with special concert of children and famous testimonials.

As prizes, winners will receive the following respectively:

1st: PhP 10,000 + bonus for Hong Kong Disneyland with airplane ticket for three + one night in Disneyland Hotel
2nd: PhP 7,000 + 3 tickets to KidZania
3rd: PhP 5,000 + 2 tickets to KidZania
4th: PhP 5,000 + 2 tickets to KidZania

Free gifts will be given to all participants of the competition. 🙂

August 13, 2015

Review of NIU by Vikings (SM Aura Premier, Bonifacio Global City) + Vikings Loyalty Card

A staple of the metro’s dining scene, Vikings Luxury Buffet has experienced a renaissance. Formal without being too stuffy and elegant without being aloof, NIU in SM Aura Premier, BGC is the upscale restaurant by Vikings that brings people together over a good meal.

Niu means “nine” in the Viking language. To explain why this establishment is called such, it’s the ninth restaurant in the Vikings group and it has nine food stations with a large array of dishes. Flavors are diverse and enticing as ever!

We had dinner here, using the Vikings Loyalty Card, for the first time. What is it and how does it work? I’ll walk you through the details of the card’s uses and perks at the end of the post. First, let’s talk about NIU. 🙂

At NIU by Vikings in SM Aura Premier, there’s no pretensions, no pomposity but just nicely spaced tables, discreet lighting, fine service, and excellent food. This is a stellar buffet restaurant that never disappoints, whether the occasion is an important business lunch or a romantic tasting experience.

Review of NIU by Vikings (SM Aura Premier, Bonifacio Global City)

Ambiance: ★★★★★

The fancy chandeliers, decorative wall designs, polished floor tiles, and relaxing soft piano music playing on the background (live during dinnertime) mostly make the posh ambiance at NIU resound with high points. Add to these are arched windows that look beautiful and distinctive as an eye-catching focal point and ceiling panels that temper a warm and more welcoming appearance with interesting wavy “fabric-like” beams.

Everything contributes to achieve a great degree of interior cohesiveness, including the color theme composed of browns and muted tones. Equally charming are the purple, brown, and white seating made of plush material, giving a contemporary look but a traditional comfy feel.

At one glance, it’s easy to get lost for a moment in this palace-worthy buffet restaurant “fit for royalty.” But walk around once more and you’ll realize that each area is properly organized and placed. What seemed like an endless parade of all-you-can-eat exemplary cuisines are presented only at one side of the dining area. Function rooms are positioned near the entrance, while the rest of the dining are at the center taking up the rest of the space.

Service: ★★★★★

We felt pampered once we stepped into the restaurant. Vikings staff as always are ready to provide friendly service from the beginning and it’s clear that they want customers to have a satisfying meal. They’re attentive and never miss a beat, leaving patrons feel at home. Hospitable and unobtrusive service was expected and we were not at all disappointed. 🙂

Food: ★★★★★

NIU by Vikings is a masterclass in interesting flavors, and guests are free to practice the art of taking their time to experience them. Yes, please do. 🙂 Once you take a stroll along the buffet counters, don’t feel compelled to get everything on your plate all at once. There’s nothing wrong with starting slow on appetizers (or going straight to the mains or desserts) and just working your way through all the selections.

With nothing but the freshest and the most premium ingredients, every dish is prepared for a luxurious feast. We found unusual, unexpected treasures whipped up in bite-size portions in the Appetizer section. The variety of bread, cheese, cold meat, and canapés would be great enough for you to think about them for months proceeding.

The mains sum up to a culinary nirvana. Filling Chinese dim sum and glorious Japanese maki and sashimi were among my favorites. Excellent cuts of meat such as Salmon Coulibiac, Roasted Turkey, Rib Eye and Rack of Lamb from the Carving station also proved to be house specialties. I still dream about how Italian, French, Spanish and other European dishes from the Western table were tastefully put together. Vikings’ “customize your own pizza and pasta” is a classic fine choice, an oldie but a goodie.

Choices for desserts are big and fabulous, ranging from cakes, chocolate fondue, fruits, and Filipino rice cakes to gelato. We tried every single flavor of gelato in small, premium scoops, and each one left a smile on our faces. It’s creamier, smoother, silkier, and denser than its American ice cream counterpart, plus the flavors naturally tasting heavenly. Yum! 🙂

As a finishing touch on this gastronomic gem, different juices, tea, coffee, beers, and wine are all available. That’s good to know since we always enjoy sampling more than one!

Appetizers

Western

Japanese

Mediterranean

Chinese

Carving

Desserts

Beverages

Price for Value: ★★★★☆

Vikings is known for its scrumptious buffet items and for good reason—it has truly redefined the all-you-can-eat dining experience over the years. Now with NIU, that experience is made even better.

Prices of NIU are higher than those of the regular Vikings Luxury Buffet, but it will be worth it, I promise. Book your reservation and come check it out to know why. 🙂 (Note: Make sure to reserve the function rooms early for special occasions or exclusive gatherings.)

Prices	Weekday lunch	Weekday dinner/ weekend and holiday lunch and dinner
	Weekday lunch	Weekday dinner/ weekend and holiday lunch and dinner
Kids below 3 ft or 3 years old	Free	Free
Kids (3ft. to 4ft. or 3 years to 7 years old)	PhP 288	PhP 388
Kids (4ft. to 4 ft 6” or 8 to 10 years old)	PhP 588	PhP 688
Adults	PhP 888+5% SC	PhP 1388+
75 years old and above	50% special discount	50% special discount

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Everything You Need to Know About Vikings’ Loyalty Program

Registration is easy. 🙂

VIKINGS LOYALTY CARD PERKS AND PRIVILEGES	MEMBERSHIP LEVEL
VIKINGS LOYALTY CARD PERKS AND PRIVILEGES	Basic (0 – 999 points)	Silver (1000 – 1500 points)	Gold (1501 points and above)
Receive exclusive discounts with partners and affiliates		X	X
Access to exclusive Vikings discount		X	X
Access to exclusive Vikings discount		(5% cash, 3% card)	(10% cash, 8% card)
Invitation to Special Events		X	X
Priority Entrance during opening hours		X	X
One full paying adult requirement for 1 week*		X	X
One full paying adult requirement for 2 weeks**			X
1 week birthday promo flexibility: 3 days before and 3 days after actual day of birthday. * 2 weeks birthday promo flexibility: 7 days before and 7 days after actual day of birthday.

For FAQs, please refer to this page. Enjoy!

August 7, 2015

M Café Presents Sunday Boutique Brunch Buffet (Greenbelt 4, Makati City)

As you might have noticed, eat-all-you-can deals are so hot right now. Restaurants that serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a buffet setting are everywhere, and here goes Raintree Restaurants’ M Café’s Sunday Boutique Brunch, a fine go-to option for those who like to sleep in a little bit more on a Sunday morning. Shout out to weary night owls! 🙂 Finally, you can get a taste of a dreamy breakfast and lunch combination that the whole family can enjoy.

Per my last visit, Museum Café in Greenbelt 4, Makati City still adapts an intimate interior, calm atmosphere, and good service. It’s a sleek and contemporary venue with a spacious design and live music adding to the dining experience, of which the crowning jewel is the food. Filipino, Continental, and Asian fare in the buffet are available from 10:00am to 2:30pm. Let’s get into it! 😀

Review of M Café’s Sunday Boutique Brunch Buffet (Greenbelt 4, Makati City)

Food: ★★★★★

While the brunch buffet items are not exactly numerous as those of Vikings, M Café’s Sunday Boutique Brunch has something for everyone on the table, echoing “quality over quantity.” Included in the meal are appetizers, a main course, and desserts.

Appetizers

The appetizers section incorporate the Charcuterie, the Cheeseboard, the Raw Bar, the Salad Bar, the Bread Selection, the Omelette Station, and the Baked Items.

With the different bright tastes and interesting mouth-feels of cheese (coconut cheese, gorgonzola, brie bridel, Parmesan, cilantro crusted cream cheese, fried garlic crusted cream cheese, and black peppercorn crusted cream cheese), I instantly became a convert. 🙂

The rich and earthy flavors were incredible, and I was especially hooked with the depth of the cream cheeses’ creaminess. They must be quite aged as the decreased level of lactic acidity was apparent. The coconut cheese wasn’t bad either. It didn’t have that familiar saltiness of cheese, but it was a fine and unique type in its simplest form.

The spiced tang of gourmet cured meats from the Charcuterie also packed a certain amount of wow factor. In each bite, the Jamon Serrano, Chorizo Iberico, Salchicon Extra, and Norweigan Smoked Salmon offered dueling textures—great to be eaten with bread. You won’t go wrong with anything from rye, sourdough, multi-grain, and focaccia.

Aklan oysters, prawns, and New Zealand mussels from the Raw Bar were so fresh you could almost swear they were still swimming an hour prior arriving on your plate. Don’t forget to spritz lemons to add a zing before sending the little critters into your stomach.

Main Course

Main courses are prepared at the back in the kitchen, and one person can choose an entree following the a-la-carte style. I ordered the Grilled Chicken Tandoori (see below) to satisfy my craving for some Indian spice blend. As I’d hoped, the supremely tender and succulent chicken had a mixture of both smoked and hot paprika, giving a delicious and mildly spicy boost that was too intriguing to pass up. The garlic yogurt on the side made a great stand-in.

U.S. Beef Belly Garlic Tapa – served with white rice, eggs, cherry tomato salsa and salted egg

M Benedict – poached egg, hollandaise arugula, grilled cherry, jamon excellente

Grilled Bone-in Pork Chop – topped with cinnamon apple, apricot compote, served with spiced pumpkin puree, harocts verts and organic carrots

Beer Battered Fish and Chips – coleslaw, tartar sauce, mignonette, cocktail sauce

Roasted Seafood Linguine – cilantro pesto, grilled seafood, fresh lemon

Char-grilled U.S. Beef Burger – wild rocket, Swiss emmental, tomato jam

Desserts

Desserts consist of assorted pastries and cakes, fresh cut fruits and cereals. Among all, the Oreo Cheesecake and Green Tea Panna Cotta deserved most praise for me. Crumbly bits of chocolate added more texture to the otherwise boring cheesecake. Then again, it could have been better if the Oreo pieces were not limited to the top layer but were interspersed throughout. On the other hand, the lure of green tea has always been fascinating. This luxurious treat was ultra soft and smooth, with a minimal trace of bitterness.

Price for Value: ★★★★☆

By the end of our meal, I was too full to take another bite, so I spent the rest of our time chatting with friends and admiring the view feeling relaxed—a stunning end to a brunch that can only be described as exquisite. Price per adult is PhP 988+, while kids (12 years old and below) are charged PhP 550+ each. (Additional PhP 495 for all-you-can bubbly)

Yeah, it’s not exactly cheap but it will be cool to live a little once in a while. When that time comes, know that the best way to a successful meal at Kabila / M Café’s Sunday Boutique Brunch Buffet is to come with a relatively large crew and order damn near everything on the menu for your main courses. 😛

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August 3, 2015
Vikings Luxury Buffet Features World Street Food in August 2015! #EatLikeAViking
Truth be told, there aren’t many buffet restaurants in Metro Manila that satisfy like Vikings Luxury Buffet does. God bless the people behind the creativity of their dishes. And speaking of creative dishes, this coming August 2015, Vikings features “World Street Food” with varying kinds and presentation in each of its branches nationwide: By the Bay SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, SM Jazz Mall, SM City BF in Parañaque, SM City Marikina, SM Lanang Premier in Davao, and NIU by Vikings.

Last Saturday, with blogger friends, I had a tasting session at Vikings SM Jazz Mall and enjoyed an incredible flow from appetizing bites at the start to desserts at the finish. Here’s a rundown, to give you a sneak preview. 🙂
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with Kat
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Vikings Luxury Buffet Features World Street Food in August 2015!

Homemade chorizo patty and fried mantao bread are like a match made in heaven. The juicy and savory chorizo patty well complemented the fried mantou which had a fragrant crispy outer crust. No doubt, this Chori Burger from the Philippines with a twist is a modest reminder that you are in for a modern cuisine.

Lightly battered, this Oyster Omelette from Singapore was a slightly different experience from the usual baked or grilled rendition as the crisp finish of flour mixture accompanied the soft and fresh oyster underneath the coating. I thought that adding a mayonnaise dip would further add richness to the taste.

Time to face fears! We had Balut Deconstructed from the Philippines which was served in a rather unique fashion: in a typical shot glass. The beer battered duck embryo was topped with balut mousse and garnished with chicken floss and sliced albumen (bato).

The duck’s embryo had some fried crispness to it and the texture of the balut mousse was excellently smooth like butter. To say it melts in your mouth would be an understatement. It’s so light you honestly won’t even know if it’s in your mouth. But it is. And it’s wonderful.

Beef and Chicken Satay from Indonesia would easily make a lovely main standalone with a bowl of rice. The tender beef and chicken were served street food style and the peanut dipping sauce played a prominent role in making the satay taste a bit sweet and flavorful as if watered down with nice chunks of peanuts.

Popiah from Malaysia consisted of braised jicama, tofu, shrimp and ground peanut spring rolls. The combination of ingredients and variation in texture were spot-on and did more than necessary to impress our palate. These fresh spring rolls looked almost like an art piece on its own. Paying attention to such intricate workmanship on the plate speaks volume about the chef’s culinary skills.

One of Filipinos’ favorite snacks, Mango and Singkamas from the Philippines served with bagoong alamang (shrimp paste) remained a classic and true to taste. I just found the bagoong too salty for my liking. Water, please.

The next entree was Bah Kut Teh (肉骨茶) from Singapore which I remember so well from local hawkers near where I used to live in Singapore. However, this soup by Vikings was cooked to suit Pinoys’ taste buds as it combined Singaporean, Malaysian, and Peranakan flavors without being intensely peppery and garlicky.

The stock was simmered with meaty pork at length and produced from a complex broth of herbs and spices. While salinity on the soup was on the high side, the tenderness of the pork infused a refreshing touch to it that balanced out the dish.

Topped with scrambled eggs and shrimps, the yellow noodles and thick rice vermicelli composing Hokkien Mee from Singapore were chewy, dense, and a little slippery with a slightly porous surface that fully absorbed the savory prawn broth. The best part? It had little bits of pork lard that get both crisp and melty. Yum!

Jerk Chicken from Jamaica had a familiar warm spice aroma from spiced rub marination and it did pick up some smoky flavor on its deeply charred skin. The firm, sweet, and tart mango salsa as a topper provided a good contrast.

It was my first time to come across Tamales and I was awestruck with its uniqueness. Boiled in a leaf wrapper, this popular Mexican dish was “Filipinized” and was completed with stuffed corn rice, shredded pork adobo, and garnished with salted egg and pork floss. As a well-rounded meal itself, the humble tamale tasted earthy and a bit spicy. It’s a must-try.

To end our meal on a high note, for desserts, we had this fried dough pastry based snack called Churros served with rich chocolate coffee sauce. As a chocoholic, it was pretty much my duty to indulge here. Not too greasy, not too sweet, not too hard outside, and not too hollow inside, these churros were just perfect. You just can’t have one.

The freshly sliced bananas in the Bananaque Pie were homey and straightforward with a little zing to it. There’s really something delightful about the luscious, creamy, and cool simplicity of the egg custard and fried plantain pie sweetened further with vanilla ice cream and dulce de leche. 🙂

Wrap Up

It seems that sky is really the limit when it comes to offering something new and exciting at Vikings Luxury Buffet. While these dishes will be available during dinner and weekends next month, I suggest you grab the chance! Prepare for a great multi-course “street-food-themed” meal with an unimpeachable roster of hits, with a few absolutely unforgettable food mixed in. 😀
July 30, 2015
Review of St. Nicholas Catering Restaurant (Plainview, Mandaluyong City)
If you’re looking for affordable and creative Filipino food in Mandaluyong, then look no further than St. Nicholas Catering Restaurant. Thanks to Chef Nick Pelaez whose name has made a mark in catering services for the last 12 years, a restaurant with innovative cuisine and eclectic “see-and-be-seen” ambiance where you can feel right at home was born.

Who could have thought that it’s here that I would get to try Adobo sa Dilaw, Adobong Crocodile, Tempura with Vinegar Dip, and Civet Coffee for the first time? At St. Nicholas, you just have to bring a good sense of adventure for an enjoyable meal—without having to use your platinum card. 🙂
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with Chef Nick Pelaez
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Review of St. Nicholas Catering Restaurant (Plainview, Mandaluyong City)

Ambiance: ★★★★☆

With cool surroundings and a quiet lounge scene, St. Nicholas Catering Restaurant is a must-visit for many residents in the area and even those who travel all the way from their faraway hometowns.

The simple table and chair setting matched with life-sized ceramic statues of saints are reminiscent of a quaint house of worship with retro vibes. I felt a bit like going back in time when stress was just a word and not a way of life. I hope there’s new-age music or the sound of waterfalls playing to aid a more relaxing experience to the peaceful and almost spiritual-looking place.

Every corner is designed differently with colorful backgrounds that remind me most of studio photo shoots. This cherry blossom background, for instance, can fool anyone to think that we’re in Japan. Haha, there goes my wishful thinking. It’s an Instagram-worthy spot conveying a picture-perfect setting.

Had I only known that St. Nicholas Catering Restaurant has these interesting backdrops that many people spend hours trying to create in Photoshop, I would have prepared for costumes and brought accessories to look more realistic. Well, I’ll definitely return with my family next time and be matchy matchy with the rest of the décor. If you’re thinking of the same thing, you can choose from so much cute accessories & jewelry here. 🙂

Service: ★★★★★

Service was laid-back and well synchronized. Food arrived not too long and servers were responsive. I like the idea of having a bell that customers can ring to get their attention quickly. The menu merits considerable exploration, so you’d do wise to listen to the servers’ recommendations and house favorites.

Food: ★★★★☆

Okoy or Crispy Shrimp Fritters, made with baby or small shrimps, are usually served as an appetizer in Filipino meals. Turn that to the sentient side of the food chain and you get Okoy Gulay (PhP 99) made with cabbage, river spinach (kangkong), and carrots. These pan-fried vegetable fritters were quite good enough to at least tempt the staunchest of vegetarians. No starchy binders and fillers!

There’s no road map on how to eat those fritters, but it’s highly suggested to dip them into St. Nicholas’ homemade vinegar. Suka Pinakurat (fermented coconut sap) was a crazy-good accent which gave a mix of aged depth and bright acidity in every bite.

As weird as its name sounds, Poqui-Poqui (PhP 95) turned out to be a beautiful plate of grilled eggplants, tomatoes, onions, and lightly beaten eggs. With mushy and squishy texture, this well-loved Ilocano vegetable dish was light on salt and great alongside the main meal.

Moving on to the mains, the Sweet Chili Garlic Prawns (PhP 199) arrived and I saw myself smiling. I won’t tire of the magical combination of garlic and chili with sweet bursts of the sauce. The prawns had a nicely charred crust and a plump, juicy, and bouncy texture. Plating them with crunchy toppings such as shredded cabbage and homemade pickles would have punched a higher score in my book.

Ebi Tempura with Suka Dip (PhP 199) was another shamelessly delicious seafood entree. It may look and taste like an ordinary Japanese-style ebi tempura, but wait until the dish changes its core when you use vinegar as condiment instead of the tangy tempura dipping sauce. Try all red vinegar, black vinegar, and white vinegar (as shown in the picture above) if you’re not sure what type you’re in the mood for. 😉 The black vinegar for me was perfectly creditable.

The “calorie-laden” Sizzling Pork Sisig (PhP 99) was crispy and wickedly good. There was nothing sophisticated about it—sisig is sisig—but it was palatable with fats and all. 🙂 It’s a taste of nostalgia, especially for balikbayans, I bet.

Adobong Manok at Baboy sa Dilaw (PhP 199) was cooked with turmeric (luyang dilaw) instead of soy sauce for the traditional adobo recipe, resulting to a yellow adobo rather than the brown version. Turmeric tasted like a less intense ginger or a musky orange that’s both peppery and earthy.

Out of the ordinary, Tinolang Chicken sa Pakwan (PhP 199) (Chicken Soup with Watermelon) came out as a refreshing twist to the conventional Pinoy comfort food, Tinolang Manok (Chicken in Ginger Broth). With a bit of kick from the sweet flavor profile of watermelon, the soup was intensely aromatic, warm, soothing, and easy to eat.

Presented as “butterfly-style,” Paru-parong Tilapia (PhP 199) had a wonderful crust that wasn’t overcooked or dry. The sparse simplicity was boosted by the Sweet Tamarind Sauce whose texture was thick and almost like paste, rendering the whole dish intriguingly fruity.

I’m not one who fancy eating exotic food, but I can make an exception when opportunity knocks. In terms of taste and texture, the Adobong Crocodile (PhP 299) was like a cross between chicken and pork; chewiness was wholly absent. Loaded with soy sauce and some herbs, this dish showed off the inventiveness St. Nicholas’ kitchen can deliver when playing fast and loose with tradition.

Cigar-shaped Turon de Tsokolate (PhP 75) can be my everyday afternoon snack (if only that’s possible). 🙂 It’s a delicious precursor to dinner or a dessert to share. Deep-fried until golden-brown crisp, these turon had paper-thin pastry skin finished with chocolate filling. Wow!

Subtly sweet, the Chocolate Lava Ala Mode (PhP 199) is a great quick-fix dessert that owns an easy convenience. Its interior, while still gooey, was satiny molten chocolate pouring out. Chocolate ice cream on the side made it taste even better. Chocoholics, this is a must-order for yourself! Folks with dietary restrictions, beware.

Honeyed Fruit in Ice Cream (PhP 199), bulked up with fresh bits of chopped mangoes, was too sweet for my liking. The inescapable flavor of honey can satisfy a sweet tooth that has been longing for a lusciously decadent treat.

Choco Banana Shake (PhP 65) and Strawberry Banana Shake (PhP 65) were decent but I prefer those that are thicker and natural with pulp and fiber presented.

I didn’t intend to have another cup of coffee anymore since I have met my caffeine quota for the day after breakfast, but the scent of freshly brewed Civet Coffee (PhP 135) called me forward and I just had to give in. Civet coffee’s fine flavor was like a mix of coffee and roasted ground nuts. It is reportedly from caffeine jitters that go through wild civets’ digestive system working as sort of a defacto depulping machine yielding partially-digested beans coated with various internal essences and enzymes. Awesome.

Price for Value: ★★★★★

After typing “PhP 199” for seven times on this review, I can almost guess that everything else on St. Nicholas Catering Restaurant’s menu is likely on that same price point. This casual go-to spot in Mandaluyong showcases varied dishes with generous portions teetering the borderline of great. Obviously, Chef Nick isn’t afraid to take risks with food he creates, which means that there will be no shortage of exciting items here at good value. 🙂

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July 27, 2015