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  • Review of Tokyo Café Flagship Store (SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City)

    Review of Tokyo Café Flagship Store (SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City)

    Last Saturday, my family and I celebrated Valentine’s Day in my favorite mall in the Philippines, and yes, that’s SM Mall of Asia. 😛 There were too many people everywhere. Queues to the mall entrances, restaurants, and cashier counters were way longer than I have ever imagined. We managed to grab dinner in Tokyo Café at 10PM, an hour before the mall closed. Still, we could not escape the streams of diners in line that seemed to just keep coming and coming. After the 20-minute waiting game, we were finally led to a table at the center of the buzzing atmosphere.

    Tokyo Café has been established in the country since 2006. It has been nine years! Taking into account Filipino’s innate penchant for food, this restaurant offers a full menu featuring Japanese-Western fusion dishes, complemented with an array of desserts, pastries, and drinks (must-try: charcoal-roasted coffee).

    Review of Tokyo Café Flagship Store (SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City)

    Service: ★★★★☆

    Despite the packed place, we did not feel suffocated with the surroundings. The staffs were able to handle the customers well, by providing seats in the waiting area, handing out menus and allowing customers to make advanced orders, and serving food fast. Our server got one of our orders wrong and was quick to alter the food in the kitchen before serving. Apart from the small mistake, everything was well organized and ran like clock work. The waiters were knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive.

    Food: ★★★★☆

    This was actually our third time dining at Tokyo Café in SM MOA. This time, we ordered the Kiddie Set Meals (each with a scoop of ice cream and a glass of iced tea), as they appealed most as a favorable light meal for our late dinner. We didn’t set the bar high for the taste and portion but enjoyed eating food supposedly for “kids” as adults. 😛

    My sister had the Hamburg Steak and Rice (PhP 160). It’s the familiar burger steak patty with a good char. It didn’t taste anything special, but we were positive that the patty was cooked well and the ingredients were blended nicely. Not too greasy, it didn’t have an alarmingly strong and persistent aftertaste that burger patties from fast food joints normally serve.

    My mom had 1 pc. Chicken and Rice (PhP 160), which must be an ultimate comfort food and go-to meal preferred by any kid. It wasn’t the best and there’s nothing unique, but it was okay.

    For myself, the Chicken and Cheese Roll and Rice (PhP 160) hit the spot and the cheese inside the chicken was pretty solid. It was salty, sweet, and comforting, all wrapped up into one.

    We also shared a plate of Garlic and Shrimp Pasta (PhP 290) with tomatoes, garlic, and shrimps seasoned with herbs and spices. The pasta was so flavorful and we appreciated the combined tastes of garlic and shrimp to the core.

    Dad had the Margherita (PhP 265) (vegetarian pizza), an elegant play of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Topped with light sauce, the crust was soft and crispy, with mozzarella seriously elevating the flavor. We loved it.

    Tokyo Café was running a promotion and we were lucky to have chanced upon the great deal: “Get a free crepe of choice with a minimum single receipt purchase of PhP 1,000.” Out of the six options/flavors of crepe, we chose Very Berry (PhP 160)—blueberries and strawberry ice cream drizzled with strawberry syrup. The crepe had a silky crisp bite to the dough, a nice offset to the the sweetness of the ice cream and whipped cream that wasn’t too overpowering. This dessert was definitely a sweet ending. 🙂

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    All prices were affordable and reasonable, and there are enough choices for everyone. Tokyo Café dishes run on great value. This café is recommended for those who are in budget and who love to try Japanese food with a twist.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/tokyocafephilippines/” name=”Tokyo Café” description=”G/F SM Mall of Asia, Main Mall Bldg., South Wing, Seaside Drive Manila Bay Reclamation Area, Pasay” rev_name=”For inquiries, call 556-0517″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-02-19″ user_review=”12″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”15″ ]

  • Review of A Taste of L.A. (Tomas Morato, Quezon City)

    Review of A Taste of L.A. (Tomas Morato, Quezon City)

    Louie, my boyfriend, and I had dinner last Sunday at A Taste of L.A. (or “L.A. Cafe”) in Don A. Roces Avenue, Tomas Morato, Quezon City. I give all credit to him for always finding unique places where we can spend a romantic night out. The fine quality food served complemented with dedicated service by this restaurant made our overall dining experience especially memorable, as we celebrated our sixth Valentine’s Day together. 🙂

    Review of A Taste of L.A. (Tomas Morato, Quezon City)

    Ambiance: ★★★★★

    As the saying goes, we should not judge a book by its cover. A Taste of L. A. has been opened since 1995. While its exterior looked pretty shabby, seemingly reflecting how the building has aged through the years, the interior design still offers an old-world charm that’s all about the details.

    From the historic wood-paneled walls to the pieces of paintings displayed in every room, A Taste of L.A. is filled with quaint and romantic touches.

    Its outdoor space is equally as wonderful, with an unexpected water fountain that works as a good backdrop for picture-taking.

    Since we came at nighttime, the tables were just lit with candles. Match the dim ambiance with understated decors and relaxing instrumental music, and you get the feeling of coziness you deserve on a date.

    What also exuded sophistication and elegance was how the different neighboring tables were set to fit over a hundred customers in two separate levels. We had a tour prior sitting down and found the entire arrangement tasteful, one that gives exclusivity or that desired level of privacy.

    Service: ★★★★★

    Despite the large number of guests (mostly couples) celebrating Valentine’s Day, there was no hiccup with the efficiency of service. The attendants never slowed down or were sub par. They were knowledgeable about the menu and also paid close attention to make sure that meals take place with enjoyment. All in all, they showcased a balanced warmth of friendliness and professionalism.

    Food: ★★★★★

    We shared a bowl of the Fresh Onion Soup (PhP 380) as a starter.  Baked with a crust of Emmental and Gruyère cheese, the soup had a combination of slightly sweet and salty flavors with watery consistency. The bubbling crust of cheese was somewhat like mozzarella—gooey, nutty, and sharp. Its fragrance and savory texture managed to bring the simple onion soup to a next level.

    For the main courses, we went for the house recommendations. A Taste of L.A.’s U.S. Rib Eye Salpicao Rice (PhP 560) was amazing and became our easy favorite. The steak cubes cut size was just great for chewing, and the marinade composed of garlic and chili did not overwhelm the beef. I suddenly remembered The Nest’s version of Beef Salpicao. (I can’t decide which one fared the notch better.) The bed of garlic fried rice was also tasty, and there was nothing to complain about.


    Cooked to perfection, the Grilled Chicken “Hotel de Paris” (PhP 520) with fresh mushrooms, smoky bacon, Béarnaise sauce, and mashed potatoes on the side was another winning dish that’s well prepared by the café. The name sounded a mouthful but a delicious one. A twist to the tandoori chicken, the grilled chicken was tender and juicy. A worthy shout out was the Béarnaise sauce which was made of clarified butter emulsified in egg yolks, white wine vinegar, and flavored with herbs. Thumbs up!


    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    Reminiscing the meal, I realized that A Taste of L.A. (L.A. Cafe) in an almost-hidden spot near the popular commercial area of Tomas Morato did a sublime job in injecting Italian and American food selections into the menu while retaining conventional Filipino recipes. They also offer a fine collection of wine and various types of liquor to choose from.

    If you are looking for a decent venue in QC to discuss business ventures, catch up with friends and associates, or impress someone and are willing to spend about PhP 500-1000/pax, A Taste of L.A. is the place to be.

    [schema type=”review” name=”A Taste of L.A. ” description=”171 Don A. Roces Avenue, Tomas Morato, Laging Handa, Quezon City” rev_name=”For inquiries/reservations, call 374-2461, 415-7911″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-02-16″ user_review=”19″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

  • Review of Nikko’s Baking Studio’s Macaron Making Class (Paseo de Roxas, Makati City)

    Review of Nikko’s Baking Studio’s Macaron Making Class (Paseo de Roxas, Makati City)

    When boredom strikes, I find an effort to beat it by checking out lists of new and interesting things to do. Last week, I decided to finally take up a baking class, which has been on my “to-try list” for some time. And suddenly, in absolute perfect timing, I was invited to try out the six-hour macaron making class at Nikko’s Baking Studio (9AM-3PM).

    Bossman Spanky called it “The Bloggers’ Bake-off,” and the challenge was to make Lemon French Macarons. OMG! I love French macarons and so I was happy and excited to learn the recipe and techniques in a hands-on environment led by Chef Nikko Buendia herself. 🙂

    Chef Nikko, me, and the finished products ♥

    Nikko’s Baking Studio is a culinary school, café, and bakery packed into one. Whether you’re looking for a quaint bake shop where you can grab delicious treats for your upcoming corporate event, baby shower, or wedding, or attend baking classes to learn how to make those treats, this lifestyle baking studio along Paseo de Roxas in Urdaneta Village, Makati City (across Mandarin Oriental, One Roxas Triangle, near cor. Buendia) can meet your needs.

    Review of Nikko’s Baking Studio’s Macaron Making Class (Paseo de Roxas, Makati City)

    The Place

    Before the class started last Saturday, Chef Nikko told a rich story of how she started with baking. She showed us around and walked us through a typical day in her thriving business.

    From the quick tour, I observed that the café area of Nikko’s Baking Studio resembles what you would expect from a tasteful bakeshop. With goodies displayed at the coffee bar, artsy paintings on the wall, and wooden furniture both placed inside and outside at the patio, this place has a cozy vibe and the most fitted environment to have a good time.

    Separated from the café only by a wall, the baking studio on the other side contains the four stations equipped with baking machines, racks, utensils, books, and other baking materials. It’s a conducive space for interacting with classmates in a professional teaching kitchen. Participants of up to eight (8) in one session can work side by side with one another, with two people paired in one station.

    The Food

    Nikko’s Baking Studio encompasses snacks and desserts such as cakes, tortes, pies, and cookies. Among all the delicious treats it offers, the Kahlua Mocha Cake or the “Pope’s Cake” must be the most popular now, as it was one of the four cakes that flew with Pope Francis when he left Manila last January 2015. Since then, Nikko’s Baking Studio has been receiving numerous orders of the same cake with slightly different decorations.

    We were lucky to have the chance to taste this famous cake! 🙂 Oozing with decadence of Kahlua (a coffee-flavored rum-based liqueur), the Kahlua Mocha Cake was indeed calories worthy, with layers of moist and fluffy chiffon and sweet filling on the inside. It had just the right level of sweetness to please our palate without any satiation.

    sample: decorated Kahlua Mocha Cake for a customer

    Another indulging treat we tried was this plain-looking Pineapple Streusel Pie, which surely deserves a lot more recognition. Eating a slice truly made all the difference from just looking at it. The pie had a medley of textures including real pineapple chunks with each delightful bite. Yummy!

    Next, we also tasted the four flavors of French macarons offered: vanilla, lemon, peanut butter, and pistachio. Maracons have a reputation of being beautiful and delectable, and these small cookies are also known for being incredibly temperamental and finicky to make.

    The point of this exercise was not only to fill our stomachs and get energized before the class, but it was also to create reference points or benchmarks so we would know what the acceptable quality criteria are for macarons. 🙂 Nikko’s Baking Studio’s macarons were visually impressive and very good with light and chewy texture.

    The Class: ★★★★★

    Adorned in uniform aprons, we gathered around the counter in the middle of the room and read the baking instructions. In order to get a headstart, one of the chefs in the baking studio had managed to measure out the pre-prepared ingredients according to weight. If only all ingredients would be conveniently placed like that magically and with precision at home, I suppose that setup would be any baker’s heaven. 😉

    Chef Nikko first performed all the steps and explained the procedures in detail, while we watch her do it then replicate later. She assured us that macarons are easy and simple to do. Everything indeed looked so manageable, from folding of ingredients to make the plain almond meringue shell, piping the mixtures onto the trays, drying them, and baking the macaron shell in the oven, to mixing the ingredients to make the lemon curd, piping a mound of curd onto each shell, and covering each filled shell with another shell.

    When it was time for us to make the precious dainties, Marge, my partner, and I carefully followed the instructions on the handout and recalled how Chef Nikko did the steps. When unsure, it was best to ask for guidance. The chef helped us in a friendly manner and without hesitation.

    Thanks to her patience and our team effort, we succeeded. Even if some macarons did not come out as perfectly shaped (some cracked, some a little burned, and some discolored), they were still delicious. Every piece exuded a very perky little personality on its own. The most gratifying part was seeing the shells rise in the oven and develop feet. 🙂

    Here are some tips that Chef Nikko gave the class to make a perfect macaron:

    • Weigh all ingredients using a digital scale to ensure consistent results.
    • Sift the ingredients multiple times if necessary. Dry ingredients should have a powdery texture with no lumps.
    • Print a template with drawings of circles spaced at least a half inch apart to keep the macarons in consistent size and shape. Place this printed sheet under the parchment paper before piping the macaron mixture.
    • After piping, bang the baking sheet firmly on the counter to release any trapped air.
    • Dry the piped macarons for 30 minutes before baking. The drying process is complete when the macarons no longer stick to your finger when touched. The macaron surface should appear with a matte finish.
    • When baking, make sure to know your oven and check the best duration to bake and not only depend on what the recipe states.

    Wrap Up

    Attending Chef Nikko’s baking class made me realize that having the first-hand experience is really far from just watching like an audience of a show. Aside from learning how to make the lemon French macarons, I also appreciated the company we shared. The baking studio burst with life and laughter, with funny jokes and comments by the chefs and my classmates (Irene Co of Indulgence by Irene, Camille and Faye of The Soshal Network, and Marge of Coffeehan). There wasn’t a dull moment with these guys!

    I look forward to learning and trying other recipes, take the time to make things the homemade way, and in the process have fun doing it. I hope this post encourages you to give macarons a shot, whether you’re a complete beginner like me or a frustrated baker. 😛

    Schedules of Nikko’s Baking Studio’s baking classes are announced monthly on their Facebook page, so please check back regularly. The following is the list of schedules for this month of Feb 2015. I think both kids and adults can join. Contact Nikko’s Baking Studio to book your spot.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/nikkosbakingstudio” name=”Nikko’s Baking Studio” description=”59-A Paseo de Roxas, Urdaneta Village, Makati City” rev_name=”For inquiries/orders, contact 887-1711″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-02-09″ user_review=”5″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”5″ ]

  • Review of Terry’s Lechon (Home of Good-tasting Lechon Belly, Pata, Manok)

    Review of Terry’s Lechon (Home of Good-tasting Lechon Belly, Pata, Manok)

    Suckling pig, or lechon, in the Philippines is a dish that’s most celebrated and hailed as the “superstar of the dining table” in any special occasion. Whether it be a birthday party, welcoming party, despedida, fiesta or festival, lechon is almost always enjoyed by the entire family or even the whole barangay. This may be the reason why several joints specializing in boneless lechon belly nowadays become a total hit. Mabenta. 🙂

    One of the latest booming lechon business is Terry’s Lechon (Home of Good-tasting Lechon Belly, Pata, Manok). Starting out promoting its Facebook page just last month, Terry’s Lechon has been receiving quite a lot of orders and positive feedback already from its customers. My family and I had the small lechon belly (original) for taste-testing last week and found the flavor spot-on!

    Review of Terry’s Lechon (Home of Good-tasting Lechon Belly, Pata, Manok)

    Service: ★★★★★

    Overall, customer service was efficient and friendly. All questions were quickly answered. If you suddenly need lechon as a contribution for potluck lunch or dinner, Terry’s Lechon can be a lifesaver. It’s just one phone call or text message away.

    For now, they accept and handle all orders a day before actual delivery. Delivery within Marikina, San Mateo, Montalban, Commonwealth Area, and Batasan Quezon City is free of charge, while outside of these areas require an additional charge of PhP 300.

    Food: ★★★★★

    Admittedly, we didn’t expect much from Terry’s Lechon, since we know that it’s just starting to make its name in Metro Manila. Still, the question lingered. Can it impress our picky palate?


    Upon opening the package containing the boneless lechon belly, we knew that the food was off the hook! Just the delicious aroma did a pretty good job in sending impulses that result in excitement and happy hormones. Terry’s Lechon’s small belly-chon (good for 4-6 pax) was seasoned with salt, herbs and spices, and a secret special ingredient that’s key to making the meat tasty even without adding finishing sauces or condiments.

    Slow-cooked in the oven for four hours and marinated overnight, the boneless lechon belly was melt-in-the-mouth glorious. Topped with very crispy skin, the leaner portion was great and it gave a beautiful crackling. The suckling pig also had a right amount of fats for that juicy touch. Inside was soft, moist, and juicy. The symphony of tastes was addictive, and I don’t think anyone can resist to eat it without rice.

    We didn’t finish the whole thing in one sitting. We gave away about half to our cousins and ate the leftover in the next two days. Trying the dish for the second and third time, we were a bit surprised that it was still crispy. Too good for sharing, Terry’s Lechon’s lechon belly is a must-order.

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    What can I say? Terry’s Lechon lives up to its name. It’s the Home of Good-tasting Lechon Belly, Pata, Manok, as it claims to be. The price for value is fair. You get what you pay for and maybe more. Here’s the price list of their offerings:

    • Small Bellychon (for 4-6pax) = PhP 999
    • Big Bellychon (for 10-12pax) = PhP 1999
    • Lechon Manok = PhP 220
    • Small Lechon/CRISPY Pata = PhP 480
    • BIG Lechon/CRISPY Pata = PhP 640

    If you want to get a piece of their meat, save it for the right occasion. You won’t be disappointed. 🙂

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/pages/Terrys-Lechon/1018811044812053″ name=”Terry’s Lechon (Home of Good-tasting Lechon Belly, Pata, Manok)” description=”For inquiries/orders, call 0922-818-1216 or 340-1216″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-02-03″ user_review=”14″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”15″ ]

  • Review of Yummy Diet PH (5-Day Program and Food Delivery)

    Review of Yummy Diet PH (5-Day Program and Food Delivery)

    Diet food deliveries. Gone are the days when people used to think that diet food cannot be yummy. With online recipes available and articles sharing tips on how to prepare good-tasting meals, people today are more equipped with the knowledge on how to live healthier and carefully choose healthy food. The problem is that not everyone has the time or the discipline to grab healthy ingredients from the grocery, cook the meals, or order healthy food from restaurants on a regular basis.

    As a helpful solution, a lot of businesses now offer a completely dynamic and personal service. One of them I’ve tried recently was Yummy Diet PH. In this post, let me share with you the food and delivery service provided in Yummy Diet’s 5-day program.

    Review of Yummy Diet PH (5-Day Program and Food Delivery)

    Service: ★★★★★

    Like other diet delivery services, Yummy Diet PH arranges ready-made diet meals delivered to the customer’s specified address from Monday to Friday. Basically, ordering food is either done online or over the phone. Yummy Diet PH does the calorie counting, nutrition planning, measuring, and preparing for all of the meals. Quick and easy to follow, their diet plans are generally tailored to reduce your calorie intake and improve your well-being as a whole.

    Since October 2014, Yummy Diet PH serves the following meal sets. You may go for one depending on your budget, dietary requirements, and support needs.

    REGULAR SETS:

    • 1200-Calories: P1,800/5days (Mon-Fri)
    • 1500-Calories: P2,150/5days (Mon-Fri)
    • 1800-Calories: P2,500/5days (Mon-Fri)

    NO CARB SETS:

    • 1200-Calories: P2,500/5days (Mon-Fri)
    • 1500-Calories: P2,800/5days (Mon-Fri)
    • 1800-Calories: P3,200/5days (Mon-Fri)

    NO RICE SETS:

    • 1200-Calories: P2,300/5days (Mon-Fri)
    • 1500-Calories: P2,600/5days (Mon-Fri)
    • 1800-Calories: P3,000/5days (Mon-Fri)

    5-DAY HCG SET:

    • 500-800 Calories: P2,500/5days (Mon-Fri)

    Food: ★★★★☆

    My normal daily calorie intake is between 1200 to 1500 calories. Since I didn’t intend to lose weight, I ordered Yummy Diet’s 1500 Calorie Diet.

    If I didn’t know that these food were diet food, I would have assumed that they’re just “normal food” for me since I’m lucky to have my mom prepare food for us like that. The difference is that while we are fed with 90% vegetarian food and seafood and maybe 10% meat at home, Yummy Diet PH strikes a good balance with vegetables, meat, seafood, poultry, fruits, and pastries/biscuits in the entire week.

    I liked that Yummy Diet’s meals were not composed of those just straight out of cans but were really well thought out. Even the names of the food gave the impression that they’re like gourmet-style! (You’ll see below.) 🙂

    Presentation-wise, the food looked good and quite nice considering that they’re diet meals. If I were to eat with my eyes, these would be ones I’d be excited to eat.

    The flavors neither tasted too bland nor overpowering. When compared against “typical food” served by mainstream restaurants though, the contrast would be apparent. However, considering that these were healthy homemade meals, they were all satisfyingly yummy, indeed!

    It’s also worth to mention that the instruction label on each microwavable container was simple and easy to read. It stated with a check mark whether the food was for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and whether or not reheating was required, the food had to be chilled, or adding hot water was needed.

    The portions were enough for me not to feel hunger within the day. Timing definitely played an important factor. Watching the clock, I took breakfast at 7am, morning snack and lunch at 11:30am, afternoon snack at 4:30pm, and dinner at 6:30pm. I also kept myself hydrated by drinking three gallons of water throughout the day.

    I just have a concern regarding the freshness of the greens in the salads. Once the Yummy Diet food package arrives, it’s immediately placed inside the refrigerator to prevent spoilage and ensure proper food handling. So I’m not sure why the leaves turn yellowish when I open the containers at mealtime. 😐

    Here’s a list of the meals sent to me last week (January 26-30, 2015). All marked with an asterisk (*) are those I liked the most.

    Monday

    • Breakfast: Daing na Bangus and Garlic Red Rice*

    • Morning Snack: Ponkan
    • Lunch: Beef Tapa Salad

    • Afternoon Snack: Banana
    • Dinner: Healthy Pork Asado and Steamed Red Rice

    Also included was this set of utensils and sachets of black coffee and hot tea for everyday use and consumption.

    Tuesday

    • Breakfast: Lemon-basil Tofu Burger*

    • Morning Snack: Fuji Apple
    • Lunch: Healthy Jambalaya and Steamed Red Rice

    • Afternoon Snack: Crackers
    • Dinner: Garlicky Roasted Fish with Corn and Carrots

    Wednesday

    • Breakfast:Mushroom and Onion Scramble and Garlic Red Rice

    • Morning Snack: Orange
    • Lunch: Spiced Pork Tenderloin with Sauteed Apples and Steamed Red Rice

    • Afternoon Snack: Pear
    • Dinner: Beer-battered Chicken and Onion Rings, Roasted Potatoes, and Beans*

    Thursday

    • Breakfast: Banana-Honey Pancakes

    • Morning Snack: Washington Apple
    • Lunch: Baked Rosemary Drumsticks and Steamed Red Rice

    • Afternoon Snack: Grapes
    • Dinner: Spaghetti Pomodoro*

    Friday

    • Breakfast: Omelet Au Fromage

    • Morning Snack: Dalandan
    • Lunch: Signature Thai Chicken Curry and Steamed Red Rice*

    • Afternoon Snack: Coffee Cinnamon Cake
    • Dinner: Pan-crisped Tofu with Greens and Peanut Salad

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    What I regard as affordable is anything PhP 100 or less per meal per day. Taking up the 1500-calorie plan at PhP 2150 for five days equates to like PhP 430 per day or PhP 86 per meal (computed for 5 meals). I thought that’s a pretty good deal already, since I was pleased with both the food and the delivery service (not one instance when it arrived late). It’s also a plus that Yummy Diet offers FREE delivery, except to addresses in Southern Metro Manila which will incur an additional charge of Php 200 per week.

    If you think that the price is still too much, I suggest creating a budget to fit your finances and put a little time aside each week to plan nutritious and realistic meals. Otherwise, diet food delivery such as Yummy Diet PH can be a sustainable way for you to eat healthy and get lean. It’s convenient, hassle-free, and time-saving. 🙂

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/yummydietph” name=”Yummy Diet PH” description=”For inquiries/orders, call 0917-8898660 / 0917-8898601″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-02-02″ user_review=”13″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”15″ ]

  • Review of Vikings Luxury Buffet (SM BF, Parañaque City) #EatLikeAViking

    Review of Vikings Luxury Buffet (SM BF, Parañaque City) #EatLikeAViking

    Vikings fans in BF Parañaque, rejoice! The largest buffet restaurant in the Philippines has opened its seventh branch last January 24, 2015, Friday in SM City BF Parañaque. As soon as I received and read the invitation, I felt excited to embrace yet another Vikings experience as if it were my first. 🙂

    Vikings Luxury Buffet is the kind of buffet restaurant you walk into and immediately know you’re in a place where good things happen. Each branch has a different environment that somewhat tells a different story apart from the other. Just like Vikings in SM Jazz Residences, Makati which I’ve visited not too long ago, Vikings SM BF is likewise a foodie destination that has touched my heart, and of course, my stomach! 😛

    With Ms. Raquel, Vikings Marketing Manager, and my parents

    Review of Vikings Luxury Buffet SMBF (SM City, BF Homes, Parañaque)

    Ambiance: ★★★★★

    Designed with earthy tones all throughout, Vikings SM BF is a great place to fetch some serenity while indulging with a huge variety of delicious food. A cozy space with about 350-400 seats, Vikings’ atmosphere is surrounded with woodwork and plants, enough to make guests feel like they’re in an enchanted modern forest.

    The natural surfaces and sweeping lines are mostly composed of green and brown palette, speaking to the structure of trees, reminiscent of nature and all its beauty.

    Not to be missed are the elegant chandeliers which came draping from the high-vault ceilings. I was most enamored with the one by the reception area. It looked like it was made with diamonds, ice, or crystal constellations.

    The decors certainly brought energy that lit up in bright colors. Fish accents on the wall in the function room especially gave the impression of a fun, dynamic, and harmonious effect.

    Service: ★★★★★

    The level of Vikings’ service was really up there with the staff being super attentive to customers’ requests and needs. Everyone was nice, helpful, and friendly.

    Have someone in your table who celebrates his/her birthday? They will happily play and sing a mash-up Happy Birthday song to serenade the celebrant. 🙂

    Food: ★★★★★

    Serving food ranging from upscale contemporary to timeless classics, Vikings Luxury Buffet branch in SM Parañaque left an impressionistic mark. Taking pictures of the beautifully presented dishes alone already made me swallow my saliva before eating. Everything looked just so irresistible. 😆

    Being on the constant lookout for something spectacular and food renditions that scream wow, I stayed away from the regular favorites (Japanese and Chinese food) this time. The goal was to give myself the chance to taste those I haven’t given much attention in my previous Vikings encounters and discover new preferences.

    For appetizers, I filled my plate with the international salads, bread, and cold cuts before proceeding to attack the mains. Highlights for me included Roasted Beef Steak Tagalog, Davao de Humba, Baked Chicken Caldereta, Beer Batter Fish Escabeche, Pinakbet Con Hipon, Black Palabok, and Green Chicken. The flavors were all BOLD and SAVORY to say the least.

    On the Mediterranean counter, recommended dishes are Pescado con Salsa Verde, Pollo con Champignon, Callos, and the very special Valenciana Paella. In the Meat section, you will not go wrong with the US Beef Entrecôte, Spit-Her Leg of Lamb, Baked Cajun Turkey, Whole Barbeque Chicken Jamaican Jerky, and Belly-Chon. The moist, tender, and hearty meat can be delicately paired with your sauce or gravy of choice: Mint Jelly, Mustard, or Sea Salt with Rosemary.

    Drinks and desserts available were no different from those in other Vikings branches. We quenched our thirst with chilled juices and neutralized food tastes with Twinings Tea. Finally, we tried to conserve space in our tummy to accommodate one tiny slice each of the beautifully plated cakes and other treats that drew wows. The avocado ice cream was well-received by many guests. It’s the perfect closure to our meal as well.

    Appetizers

    Chinese

    Japanese

    Grilled Meat and Seafood

    Meat and Poultry Carving

    Mediterranean

    Drinks

    Desserts

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    For the price conscious, eating in Vikings may not always sound like a good deal. However, considering the big sumptuous buffet spread consisting of food that’s cooked in high standards and presented in great quality, price for value is actually fair.

    At Vikings SM BF in Parañaque, it’s all about enjoying a simplified culinary tour across the globe. This is definitely a pleasant joint to celebrate a momentous occasion and spend quality time with families and friends. So despite the growing competition from numerous other buffet places in Metro Manila, Vikings Luxury Buffet still reigns as number one in my book.

    Prices, subject to 5% service charge, are as follows: Weekday lunch Weekday dinner/ weekend and holiday lunch and dinner
    Kids below 3 ft Free Free
    Kids between 3ft and 4ft PhP 188+ PhP 288+
    Kids between 4ft and 6ft PhP 388+ PhP 588+
    Adults PhP 688+ PhP 888+
    75 years old and above 50% special discount 50% special discount 
    Happy eating! :)

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/vikingssmbf” name=”Vikings SM BF” description=”Second Level, SM City BF Parañaque, Sucat, Parañaque City” rev_name=”For inquiries, call 811-3888, 811-4888″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-01-27″ user_review=”19″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

    Operating Hours:
    Lunch – 11am to 2:30pm
    Dinner – 5:30pm to 10pm

  • Review of The Nest – Dining in the Sky (Vivere Hotel, Alabang, Muntinlupa)

    Review of The Nest – Dining in the Sky (Vivere Hotel, Alabang, Muntinlupa)

    Happy 2015! This is my first post of the year, so it has to be special, right? 😛 I’ll skip sharing my New Year’s resolutions because honestly I can’t think of even one, haha. I haven’t blogged in the past two weeks because I was busy watching my diet closely and working out in the gym every other day without fail for muscle-toning. Diet and fitness hold a large part of my lifestyle, so I figured that ending 2014 with those would feel right. Anyway, enough word on that and let’s go down to business! :mrgreen:

    Last Sunday, we had lunch in The Nest “Dining in the Sky,” an all-day dining establishment perched on the topmost floor of Vivere Hotel.

    Vivere Hotel is a towering five-star deluxe hotel in Alabang that’s considered as one of the first hotels developed in the area. At its 31st floor sits a restaurant which was used to be known as Sky Lounge. In its 12th year in July 2013, the restaurant underwent reconstruction, redesign and re-conceptualization not only in terms of theme and decor but also in food and drinks. The owners decided to name it The Nest, a place where guests can feel comfortable and right “at home.” Warmly welcomed by courteous staff and relaxing atmosphere, I was quite convinced.

    Review of The Nest – Dining in the Sky (Vivere Hotel, Alabang, Muntinlupa)

    Ambiance: ★★★★★

    There’s something in distressed white walls echoing the muted palette of furnishing that gives a calming and relaxing vibe. The Nest in Alabang, being positioned on top of the hotel building, offers a secluded and peaceful refuge to rejuvenate in a tranquil backdrop.

    The restaurant is broadly divided into interrelated yet seemingly distinct spaces, i.e. the bar, semi open-air in-room dining area, two function rooms which can fit 30-50 people, and the al fresco setup with a mesmerizing view of the city and an infinity pool.

    The combination of imagery, the color palette used, and the strategic placement of key functional elements all contribute towards a very classy and lovely ambiance. I find The Nest as an ideal place for romantic dates (celebrating Valentine’s Day or anniversaries), casual family dinners, business meetings, feasts and holidays.

    Just note that it’s not totally advisable to grab a table outside on a windy day no matter how much you want to appreciate the urban landscape. The strong winds tend to blow away the table napkins and anything light. Plus, you’ll hate it when the wind messes up your hairstyle and disturbs your dining experience altogether. Your options? Either be fine with it—tie your hair in a bun or back to a ponytail and put hairspray—or just ask if you can transfer inside.

    Stay-in hotel guests can enjoy breakfast buffet from 5:30AM to 10:30AM. At this time of the day, the bar counter expands to form buffet tables, and some dining sets are moved to provide more space for buffet dining. By lunch (11:00AM to 4:00PM) and dinner (6:00PM to 1:00AM), The Nest transforms to a fine, a la carte dining with specialties of international cuisine and a superb list of bar drinks.

    Mellow and jazz music is played live by a pianist and saxist tandem from Mondays to Saturdays from 7:30PM to 12:30PM. Eat and be entertained. 🙂

    Food: ★★★★★

    As a restaurant in a five-star hotel, The Nest in Alabang serves mixed cuisines to stimulate the appetite of both Philippine locals and foreigners who come for a visit. The following featured dishes are mostly their best-sellers—all wonderfully executed.

    Salads and appetizers are not mandatory, but they’re great to whet one’s appetite. We started our heavy lunch with Mango Salad with Scallops (PhP 475). I absolutely loved the crunchiness of the mixed greens and the sweetness of the strawberry vinaigrette combined. The grilled scallops wrapped in spinach and bacon tasted salty. Its saltiness was nicely complemented with Hollandaise sauce that was just slightly tangy.

    Another salad dish that came visually striking was the Crispy Catfish Salad (PhP 390). When I saw that the Thai noodles were mixed with strips of green mangoes, I simply chuckled to myself at how ridiculous these two would fit in terms of flavors and appropriateness. But hey, taste was delightful, and I surprisingly liked it. Toppings were made with crispy fried flakes of catfish meat, onions, peanuts and cilantro leaves. Get it if you can, especially during summer months.

    If salads and greens don’t do it for you, find yourself freedom. The Nest’s Beef Salpicao (PhP 450), their best-selling sizzler, must be a hit for beef lovers. It’s prepared with tender U.S. beef chunks cooked in lots of garlic and served with mashed potatoes. Sauce used was mostly of Worcestershire, a bit like pepper steak. I liked that the garlic chips didn’t have that garlicky aftertaste. The mashed potatoes on the side were pretty good, too, as they were not too mashed but turned out rather like pillowy mounds of soft potatoes.


    While falling some way short of spiciness as in my expectation, the Buffalo Chicken Wings (PhP 380) were tasty and yummy nonetheless. Served with blue cheese dressing, this dish certainly weighed on the savory end.

    Moving to the main courses, first to arrive on our table was the Crispy Binagoongan (PhP 450). This local dish can trigger a belt-loosening euphoria. It was flawlessly made with lechon kawali simmered in shrimp paste and tomatoes with lady fingers and chili. I recommend biting into the crispy skin of lechon kawali with white rice, bagoong, veggies and then the mangoes in one spoonful. So Filipino. So good.

    The Bistro Steak (PhP 1155) would please the palate of most. Cooked to perfection, the 225-grams succulent strip loin was tender and deliciously juicy with each cut oozing in goodness. Taste and texture were just as amazing as it looked! The steak was accompanied with creamy mushroom and peppercorn demi-glaze sauce and mashed potatoes. Note that this is a must-order in The Nest.

    The Pan-grilled Chicken and Garlic Steak (PhP 380) tasted like it was properly marinated in barbecue sauce. Topped with lots of roasted garlic chips and served with steamed white rice, the grilled chicken thigh steaks were juicy and the flavors blended well. As comfort food, this deserved a big thumbs up.

    The least that I liked was Vongole (PhP 310)—fresh homemade linguini made with fresh clams stewed in white wine, tossed in olive oil, butter, garlic, and chili. Without adding salt, pepper and chili flakes, the pasta was too bland without any punch of flavor. Adding one squeeze of lemon didn’t help either. I’m sure I won’t get this next time.

    For dessert, we had the Frozen Brazo (PhP 220), a frozen version of the classic Filipino dessert called “brazo de mercedes.” It was made with soft and fluffy meringue, layers of graham crust, custard, mantecado (vanilla butter),  and flavored ice cream. We enjoyed the variation in textures and levels of sweetness, which made it calorie-worthy! 🙂

    Containing a rich chocolate molten core, the Molten Lava Cake with Salted Caramel (PhP 220) was truly decadent. The crust had a beautiful crisp texture that acted like a gentle casing to contain the warm and dense chocolate within. This cake had just the right level of sweetness to please our palate without any satiation. Loved it.

    If you want something lighter and less overwhelming, the Mango Creme Brûlée (PhP 220) must be perfect. Leaving a good impression, the sharp tang of mangoes harmoniously pieced together with the creamy custard and crisp caramelized sugar on top. This dessert tasted too good to resist. 🙂

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    Items on the menu are generally not over-the-top expensive. The prices are surprisingly affordable, considering the five-star ambiance, service, and the wide range of delicious food. Portions are family-style (great for sharing), so I’m sure that there will be something that will suit everyone’s mood and budget.

    Thanks to Aldous for organizing this event. My family will surely love this place. 🙂

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/thenestalabang” name=”The Nest Alabang” description=”31/F Vivere Hotel, 5102 Bridgeway Avenue, corner Asean Dr Alabang, Muntinlupa City ” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (02) 771-7777″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-01-13″ user_review=”14″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”15″ ]

  • Review of Vikings Luxury Buffet (SM Jazz Mall, Makati) #EatLikeAViking

    Review of Vikings Luxury Buffet (SM Jazz Mall, Makati) #EatLikeAViking

    Last Friday, December 19, 2014, Vikings Luxury Buffet, the Philippines’ largest buffet restaurant, has opened its sixth branch at the new SM Jazz Mall in the same ground as SM Jazz Residences. I’m so honored and humbled to be invited by Ms. Raquel Bartolome, Marketing Manager, to be one of the first to see how this luxury buffet restaurant makes guests “dine around the world” in its multi-cultural culinary feast—with a classic European vibe this time. 🙂

    While most buffet restaurants buzz with energy and people and a few others adopt a classy approach to impress with wine and seafood, Vikings Luxury Buffet never fails to combine the best of both worlds.

    Review of Vikings Luxury Buffet (SM Jazz Mall, Makati)

    Ambiance: ★★★★★

    Every Vikings branch I’ve been to is one high-design dining destination where you’re guaranteed to have a memorable meal out. Vikings at SM Jazz Mall is no exception. Stepping in, we realized that this branch features a beautiful, chic and modern theme that emphasizes on Italian and French interior design. Echoing elegance, bright walls and colorful ceilings welcomed our view. In the reception area hang striking chandeliers installed from surprisingly unique material—vibrant balls and confetti.

    The space is much organized with buffet stations in the center, and the dining areas, which are sectioned into both open dining and elevated function rooms, at the sides. With four enclosed rooms available, Vikings Buffet Restaurant at Jazz Mall can be considered as a great venue for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions in a more private setting. Even though the rest of the restaurant is crowded, you will not feel the “buffet rush” when you’re placed in one of the rooms.



    The backdrops in each section made me feel like I’m somewhere in Europe. I should have dressed in a completely more formal attire to complement the ambiance, if only I knew about it prior the visit. 🙂 #PictureReady

    By placing hundreds of marble tables and stylish chairs, the dining floor has a rich textural effect that is much more than the sum of its parts. Liberal applications of tall glass windows give an illusion of a European grand ball dining.

    Furnished with intricate tiles, the design of the washroom area exuded warmth as well. At first sight, it’s one that has a timeless charm that’s relaxed, making visitors feel right at home.

    Service: ★★★★★

    Special mention must be made of the personable service, as most of the staff are friendly and personable. Service was zealous and prompt, with servers frequently coming over to ask if we want to have more drinks or if we’re done with our plates. I’ve noticed that there’s a good ratio of the staff and the crowded diners because there’s always one who’s available to come to serve.

    Like in other Vikings branches, when one in your group is celebrating his/her birthday, be prepared to receive cheers and enjoy a song and dance performance (not the usual “Happy Birthday” song) by the talented staff. 🙂

    Food: ★★★★★

    Vikings’ array of dishes doesn’t disappoint. They’re great overall but individually may not be the finest when compared to restaurants known for their expertise. Still, Vikings chefs pin down the ingredients, master the process and make food that result to substantial satisfaction by their dearest customers.

    In every Vikings visit, I can’t get enough of Japanese food (sushi bar), Chinese food (dimsum fare), some Italian and then desserts. In this encounter, I had tried all meat in the carving station: rosemary stuffed leg of lamb, turkey, tender pork belly, and premium beef. Tastes and textures were superb. The pork belly and lamb melt straight off the bone and in your mouth! Mom raved most about the beef. It was just…wow.

    In the Italian station, the seafood pasta deserves special mention. It’s Italian-style seafood for those who want to perhaps recapture something of their recent holidays in the Mediterranean. The unique pizza flavors really got me. Tasting true to name, the Lamb Shawarma Pizza and the Black Carbonara Pizza are definitely must-tries. Also not to miss, the baked seafood lasagna is a whole new way to enjoy a classic favorite. It’s lasagna sans processed meat but packed with clams, shrimp, etc. I suggest getting some freshly baked bread from the appetizers to pair with this and let it soak up all the creaminess and cheese. It might also be good with the Sliders.

    That’s when you discover that the beauty about eating buffet is not only that you can eat plenty to your heart’s desire and try something new, but also the sheer freedom you have to test out and pair food from one section to another and know which flavors will work harmoniously. In Vikings Luxury Buffet, it’s about dining without restrictions and without the prying eyes of others in the same venue.

    Moving on to the desserts table, all fruits, cakes and pastries were a delight. Options for your sweet tooth are extensive, so you might have to take a quick look around and plan first which to attack. 😉 I personally like the chocolate cake, ice cream, halo-halo and pudding shots.

    For drinks, we enjoyed Sago’t Gulaman and Honeydew Lemon Mint Tea the most. If you’re not a fan of fruit juices, you can choose to go with iced tea, soda, coffee, sake (Monday to Wednesday only) or draft beer. Wine is available but with added cost.

    Appetizers

    Japanese

    Chinese

    Meat, Pasta, Seafood, etc.

    Desserts

    Drinks

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    Price may be more expensive than many restaurants, but considering that you are paying a premium for its grandiose view, stylish decor and unforgettable dining experience, dining at Vikings SM Jazz Mall is worth it. Book early to assure a table. 🙂

    Prices, subject to 5% service charge, are as follows: Weekday lunch Weekday dinner/ weekend and holiday lunch and dinner
    Kids below 3 ft Free Free
    Kids between 3ft and 4ft PhP 188+ PhP 288+
    Kids between 4ft and 6ft PhP 388+ PhP 588+
    Adults PhP 688+ PhP 888+
    75 years old and above 50% special discount 50% special discount

    Happy holidays!

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/vikingsjazzmall” name=”Vikings Luxury Buffet” description=”SM Jazz Mall, Metropolitan Avenue Corner Nicanor Garcia Street, Makati City” rev_name=”For inquiries, call 891-3888, 891-4888, 0917-827-1888, 0919-999-7888 or email at vikings.jazz@yahoo.com” author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2014-12-27″ user_review=”19″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

    Operating Hours:
    Lunch – 11am to 2:30pm
    Dinner – 5:30pm to 10pm