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

    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.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/rosanjinrestaurant” name=”Rosanjin Japanese Restaurant” description=”3F Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, Ortigas, Mandaluyong City” rev_name=”For inquiries, contact (02) 2469069 ext:370 or (02) 5315300” author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-09-01″ user_review=”18″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

  • Stylist in Pocket: Personal Shopping Service For Men and Women On the Go

    Stylist in Pocket: Personal Shopping Service For Men and Women On the Go

    I’m no fashion blogger but I thought it would be really cool to share my fun shopping experience with Stylist in Pocket. 🙂 Two weeks ago, I got an email from The Row as I’m subscribed to their feeds and I’m registered as a VIP member of this fashion brand. It was an invitation for me to try out their latest personal shopping service for men and women which started only last April 2015.

    I was led to take a survey about my personal style. Questions like the type of clothes I’m interested in, my size, color preferences, etc. were asked, and the latter portion took basic personal information and my availability to be visited by their stylist. On the same day, I received a phone call from The Row confirming my booked appointment.

    Since I’m also working in the retail industry, this personal styling service offered by The Row sparked an interest. I was curious to know how it works—and more significantly, I was smitten by the email’s subject: “FREE P1000 GC for you, with our Exclusive Home Shopping Service!” (Note: You too can avail of the P1000 gift certificate. See the bottom of this post to know how.)

    As scheduled, yesterday, two stylists arrived at our home, carrying a rack with 92 pieces of garments selected according to my style preferences. Here are five things I love about this personal shopping service called “Stylist in Pocket.” Maybe you’ll want to try it, too!

    with stylists Glenda and Jaja

    5 Things I Love About Stylish in Pocket (Freeway, Ensembles, and Solo)

    1. Convenient, Hassle-free Shopping

    Stylist in Pocket has the best of both worlds of online shopping and physical store shopping. You can browse through different designs and styles of clothes, and you can fit them quickly without the need to travel. The stylists go to your location address at your most convenient schedule. You can even have a special bonding time with family and friends as you try on the clothes simultaneously.

    2. No Waiting Line in Fitting Room

    Unlike online shopping, you can easily fit into the clothes and determine if the size is perfect right on the spot. (Stylist in Pocket also offer free alterations.) There are no long waiting lines you have to endure just to fit into them! This cuts down time tremendously. (Tip: Don an innerwear like a fitted sando and cycling shorts so you can change clothes without going to your room or the bathroom.)

    Plus, you have the freedom to shop at your own pace and convenience. Stylists help in getting you dressed as well. Can’t reach the zipper in the back of the dress? Need to place a belt to create a more flattering line? No worries. They are at your service.

    3. Access to New Styles Not Even Released in Physical Stores

    Perhaps you’re in a rut, always buying the same thing and never feeling like you’re truly expressing yourself the way you’d like to. Stylist in Pocket gives clients access to new styles of clothes including those designs that are not even released yet in stores. The stylists’ job is to make the connection between the client and the wardrobe easier by identifying trends, gauging fit, and developing overall looks that work for you.

    4. Styling Needs Addressed

    Sometimes I get overwhelmed when walking into a store and seeing a ton of choices. I get some form of a mental paralysis, especially when I’m shopping for clothes I need to wear for an upcoming event and I’m clueless about how to put the pieces together. If you’re like me who needs a little guidance, Stylist in Pocket’s stylists can help.

    The key is to just try on anything that’s asked of you to try. I have learned that this can be an eye-opening experience. It’s your chance to expand your options of colors, styles, and fabrics that look good on you!

    5. Free P1000 GC 🙂

    If you want to avail of the GC that you can use to purchase clothes and accessories at Freeway, Ensembles, and Solo branches nationwide, simply fill out the Personal Style Quiz from this link: for women or for men. Don’t forget to indicate AAC0058H15 as the referral code to get the free P1000 worth of gift certificate that will be given by the stylist who will visit you at your home or location.

    Wrap Up

    As the retail industry becomes increasingly crowded and competitive, this exclusive home shopping service by The Row PH is a great way to fight for its share of attention and conversion rates. With friendly personal stylists to assist clients, customer relationships are further fostered and the sense of client loyalty is increased.

    After two hours fitting in clothes with my mom and sister, we ended up buying five dresses. I will get one more dress using the P1000 GC in the store. Stylist in Pocket provided us not only tangible materials but also intangible things such as confidence, optimism, and a bit of giddy joy. I loved seeing my mother so happy when she found out that the sizes of the dresses I picked (small to medium) also fit her! 😛

    The service is for FREE and it’s now available in Metro Manila and some provinces in the Philippines by invitation or referral only. So if you’re interested, use my referral code, AAC0058H15, to book an appointment with them:

    Everyone wants to feel and look their best, and this is where Stylist in Pocket can help. The good thing is that there’s no commitment to buy anything! Payment method can be cash, credit card, debit card, or check (dated on the current day).

  • Review of The Grill Boy (Spark Place, Cubao, Quezon City)

    Review of The Grill Boy (Spark Place, Cubao, Quezon City)

    The Grill Boy at Spark Place (just across SM Cubao) is now open! What’s interesting about this branch is that it’s a new food business venture of Richie, The Pickiest Eater in the World, and his family. 🙂 How great is the food then, if it has got the nod of approval of the pickiest eater himself? The answer can be quite intriguing!

    Together with the KTG, I had lunch here last Sunday and thought that The Grill Boy’s winning formula to make customers happy must be the product of “hearty entrees fully loaded with flavor” and “super affordable and reasonable prices.” In addition, this fast-food restaurant serves recognizable classic meals infused with an appealing offer that’s best for those who have a huge appetite: UNLIMITED RICE! Prepare as The Grill Boy satisfies your rice addiction—or in other case, soon to be addiction. 😛

    Review of The Grill Boy (Spark Place, Cubao, Quezon City)

    Ambiance: ★★★★☆

    Coupled with crisp white and brown, orange as the main color theme of the interior design is an instant pick-me-up, making this restaurant look bright and vibrant. Simple yet functional pieces of dining furniture filled out the space, and chairs can be moved or rearranged to accommodate bigger groups.

    While it’s not totally the perfect ambiance that will make you feel cozy and want to soak in the atmosphere, it’s the kind that wraps you up in the meal. You won’t be busy checking out decors that stimulate discussion; the main focus is the food.

    Service: ★★★★★

    The menu can be conveniently found at the top behind the counter, and this fast-food / cafeteria-style setup makes it quick and easy for customers to order. I like that there are pictures of food posted as well to help in decision-making.

    Overall, service is remarkable and the crew is friendly. I hope they remain as efficient when more people discover this place and grab their meals here. What to do when you want more rice? Just raise your hand and ask for it. We were honored to have Richie serve us half/full servings of rice as we desired—with a smile. 🙂

    Food: ★★★★☆

    As a starter or a viand on its own, the Crispy Pork and Mango Salad (PhP 66) was an awesome contrast of sweet and tangy chunks of mangoes and tomatoes and pork. I love how the crispy pork rinds (chicharon) wound up with a tad salty bite, bright acidity, and a little earthiness. This dish turned out to be a combination of flavors and textures all over in the best possible way.


    Anything with coconut milk (gata) is always welcome to my palate. The Grill Boy’s Laing (PhP 53) was no exception. Emerging supple and succulent, it primarily melded taro leaves and chilies steeped in a rich and sweet coconut milk sauce. Spiciness level was bearable. If you’re a fan of a tongue-numbing effect, simply bite into the chili and extinguish fire on your tongue with a cold drink. 🙂


    Brimming with wondrous barbecue flavor, Pork Bbq on Stick (PhP 95) was firm, tender, and appropriately fatty. Eating it the old-fashioned way with vinegar sauce will do it a lot of good.


    Luis’ Boneless Chicken Inasal (PhP 99) will melt your Filipino food-loving heart. It was not sweet like the pork barbecue. What’s noteworthy was that the marinade did not overpower the grilled chicken. Basted with spices, the flesh was juicy and soft.


    The Grilled Tuna Belly (PhP 125, with rice) was hands-down my favorite. 🙂 It was smooth, delicate, and quite clean in execution since I didn’t sense the fishy aftertaste and over-smokiness. Brush the top with soy sauce for a spectacular bite, but thanks to the seasoning, it’s already fine even without.


    While the Dennis Grilled Liempo (PhP 99) wasn’t insanely good as the other dishes we had, this entree was also one grilled treat that’s hard to beat. The layering of fat and meat was spot on, and with the use of light soy sauce, you’ll be happy with the result.


    Served with the “Mang Tomas” dipping sauce, Annie’s Lechon Kawali (PhP 99) was another cardiac delight that’s tasty and tender. The skin was chewy-crisp, and the layer of subcutaneous fat was intact enough that each morsel burst with porky juice. Mmmm…this plate of crispy fried pork belly was really as scrumptious as it looked.


    The Crispy Pork Sisig (PhP 165) consisted of chopped deep-fried pig’s facial parts and onions, topped by a sunny-side-up egg, and served on a sizzling hot cast iron plate. We mixed everything up, squeezed the calamansi, and got pretty excited with its deep umami intensity. This crispy pork sisig is by far the best version I have ever tasted. 🙂 If I were to choose one thing that sets it apart from others, it would be the crunch factor.



    Topped with sliced onions and tomatoes, Pinaputok na Bangus Meal (PhP 99) was no novelty, but it was particularly memorable because the belly was so fatty and I wondered where they get their supply of the bangus. Order it with confidence. 😀


    Swimming in the tad salty broth, bouncy noodles in the Batchoy Supreme (PhP 82) were joined by tender shreds of various pork organs. The soup wasn’t as rich as I expected though. (From 2PM-5PM, customers can get the junior batchoy with one piece of pork bbq or fried lumpiang ubod for only PhP 49.)


    Far from the wriggly instant noodles type, Pancit Canton (PhP 42-Solo, PhP 142-Platter) tasted okay. Cooked with shrimps and blanched vegetables, it’s a great go-to comfort food, and it must be a big hit during merienda time for employees working in office buildings nearby. (From 2PM-5PM, customers can get the solo portion of pancit canton with one piece of pork bbq or fried lumpiang ubod for only PhP 49.)


    A choice of Garlic Rice / Java Rice / Plain Rice completes every entree in meals. I went for a cup of garlic rice and also sampled a spoonful of java rice. Both were delicious and you can’t go wrong with anything here. Plain rice is available for unlimited refills. 🙂


    For desserts, we shared the glistening Buko Pandan Delight (PhP 39), Halo-Halo Regular (PhP 59), and Leche Flan (PhP 25). Everything was a party in the mouth. The pretty mystifying ingredient in halo halo and buko pandan was the cheese sprinkled on top. It was surprisingly good as a salty component and definitely a savory element to these quintessential Filipino desserts.

    Price for Value: ★★★★★

    The Grill Boy at SPARKS (previously prominent as “Dennis the Grill Boy”) is one thrilling foodie destination that won’t dent your budget. Price for value scores high, with good combos and meals that come with unli rice. It’s a must-stop for those who like Filipino food and simple digs that won’t make you go like “meh.”

    Operation hours: 10AM to 10PM daily

    Follow The Grill Boy on Instagram (@TheGrillBoyPH) or search for the hash tag #TheGrillBoySparkPlace.

    I’m lucky that I don’t need to make pilgrimages to Cubao since The Grill Boy has a branch in SM Mall of Asia, just 10 minutes of walking distance away from my office. 🙂 Another branch is in SM Pampanga.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/DennistheGrillBoy” name=”The Grill Boy” description=”Second Floor, Spark Place, P. Tuazon Boulevard Corner 10th Avenue, Cubao, Quezon City” author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-08-26″ user_review=”18″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

    More about Spark Place in Cubao:

    Spark Place has quickly stamped its claim as one of Cubao’s trendiest hot spots by housing other integral establishments needed for every day living. Located within Spark Place is Robinson’s Supermarket, Robinson’s Appliance Center, and Handy Man Hardware store, making for hassle-free shopping without having to deal with the hustle and bustle of a packed mall. Spark Place also provides basement parking for their customers.

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

    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!

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/susiphilippines” name=”Susi Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurant” description=”Bellagio 2, Forbestown, Burgos Circle, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (02) 8337874″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-08-18″ user_review=”12″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

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

    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!

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/FETAMediterranean” name=”Feta Mediterranean Restaurant” description=”Ground Floor, Intrawest Center, 101 Annapolis Street, Greenhills, San Juan City” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (02) 7057238″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-08-15″ user_review=”18″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

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

    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! 🙂

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/CarusoManila” name=”Caruso Ristorante Italiano” description=”210 Nicanor Garcia Street, Bel-Air, Makati City” rev_name=”For inquiries/reservations, call (02) 8952451 or +63 9175812832″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-08-13″ user_review=”16″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

    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. 🙂

  • Pinoy-themed Cooking Demo by Chef Gino Gonzalez (Enderun Amphitheatre, Taguig)

    Pinoy-themed Cooking Demo by Chef Gino Gonzalez (Enderun Amphitheatre, Taguig)

    I didn’t have to say it out loud, but I grew up clearly learning that the way to a man’s heart is food. I come from a long line of very good cooks, particularly of Chinese cuisine. My mom is the queen in our kitchen, and she has this strong ability to know the ingredients and cooking method used upon tasting food—well, more or less. That was one of the reasons why my dad married her, and it is no secret. 😀

    On the flip side, I find it tedious and hard to prepare meals, especially when the recipe requires fine-chopping of vegetables and prepping food for a very long period of time. Just as my mom regards the details of the “technical stuff” that I deal with in my profession as abstruse, to me, the fussy part of cooking does not seem enjoyable. I’m sure that this rings true to other busy individuals in this generation as well, mostly if not with the help of kitchen appliances and some tricks.

    I guess this is where high-quality kitchen appliances come to the rescue. 🙂

    To showcase the use of these kitchen appliances, Yummy Magazine, the number 1 food magazine in the Philippines, and Kitchenaid premium kitchen appliances teamed up for the 2nd mouthwatering Cooking Demo, with one of the country’s most sought-after chefs and the COO and Head Instructor at the Centre for Asian Culinary Studies, Chef Gino Gonzalez, held at the Enderun Amphitheatre in Taguig City.

    Since I attended another food event prior, I came a bit late for the cooking demo introduction where avid Yummy magazine readers and food fanatics made three delicious recipes using KitchenAid appliances. The materials and ingredients used were laid out on the tables outside, so I was still able to take some photos.

    Yummy Magazine x KitchenAid Side Bar Recipes

    The Kitchenaid 13-Cup Food Processor was perfect for making Tinapa Pate. The Hand Mixer made it really easy to make a creamy layered dessert called Ube Keso Trifle, while the 5-Speed Hand Blender created an amazingly refreshing and smooth Mango Lychee Smoothie.

    Pinoy-themed Cooking Demo by Chef Gino Gonzalez

    Chef Gino performed three recipes plus one original Yummy recipe that can be found in the official Yummy website:

    1. Asadong Vaca

    2. Henyo’s Lumpia

    3. Salted Caramel Panna Cotta

    4. Homemade Fishballs with Five-Spice Sauce

    Wrap Up

    Thanks to Yummy Magazine’s invitation, I had this opportunity and experience of attending a real-time cooking demo in a fine classroom setup. Unlike instructions shown on TV and magazine articles, this live event allowed us to smell, touch, and taste the food as well as see it prepared. Getting exposed to new methods and ingredients and noting culinary techniques from the expert himself summed up to a good sense of adventure.

    with Chef Gino

    If you’re an avid Yummy reader looking to join in future Yummy events, follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Check out their website for more scrumptious recipes! 🙂

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

    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
    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

    [schema type=”review” url=”http://niu.ph” name=”NIU by Vikings” description=”6th floor, SM Aura Premier, 26th Street Corner McKinley Parkway, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig” rev_name=”For inquiries and reservations, call +632 478-3888, 847-3888, +63 917 586-6888, & +63 919 999-6888 or send an e-mail to niubyvikings@gmail.com ” author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-08-07″ user_review=”19″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

    Everything You Need to Know About Vikings’ Loyalty Program

    Registration is easy. 🙂

    VIKINGS LOYALTY CARD PERKS AND PRIVILEGES MEMBERSHIP LEVEL
    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
    (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!