Rochkirstin | com

Blog

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

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

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

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

    Review of Kopi Kopi Café and Kitchen – Cainta, Rizal

    Ambiance: ★★★☆☆

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

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

    Service: ★★★★☆

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

    Food: ★★★☆☆

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

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

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

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

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

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

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

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

    Operation hours: 6:30AM-12MN daily

  • Behind the Scenes: I Juander GMA News TV Guesting on Food Episode

    Behind the Scenes: I Juander GMA News TV Guesting on Food Episode

    I Juander is a local TV show in the Philippines which airs every Wednesday at 8:00PM to 9:00PM on GMA News TV Channel 11. Featuring trends in the society and interesting lifestyle topics, veteran GMA reporters Susan Enriquez and Cesar Apolinario try to answer what makes us Filipino by demystifying and investigating the origins of different aspects of Filipino culture. The show is both fun and informative, one that suits all ages.

    In some episodes, they welcome guests to share views and provide feedback in participation to find certain conclusions. And guess what…last Saturday (on my birthday), I received a tweet from a program researcher of I Juander inviting me to the next day’s shoot! 🙂

    My role in the segment? All I knew was that I had to judge food prepared by chefs. Just as how I review and describe food served up by restaurants through writing in my blog, I would have to critique how the cooked dishes taste like on national TV—on the spot. The tactic hence was to prepare for the unexpected, as no prompters, no script, and no gimmicks would be given. It was the real deal.

    To confirm my attendance, I responded positively and asked for meetup details. Fortunately, I had a great support system and my dad was kind to accommodate me to GMA Network Center in Diliman, Quezon City at the agreed time on Sunday.

    After waiting for almost 3.5 hours, the I Juander crew finally reached GMA headquarters and met with us. Hooray! 🙂 We drove to the shoot venue in a village in Cainta, Rizal and had some snacks in a café upon arrival, while the crew started setting up the props, fixtures, and lighting outside.

    Behind the Scenes: I Juander GMA News TV Guesting on Food Episode

    The TV guesting experience was worthwhile and truly memorable. In the shoot, I had the opportune chance to get to know Chef Nap Sol (Co-owner of Casa del Sol Catering, Trainer for Bread and Pastry Production NC II, Product Endorser of ELBA, and ARKIDS Food Products Piano Teacher), Chef Rhon Aguilar a.k.a the “Chunky Kusinero” (Consultant at Sugarleaf foods that nourish), Papa Buboy (actor-turned-radio jock at Barangay LS 97.1), program researchers, and videographers.

    I learned about their profiles, success stories, work experiences, and personal views and opinions. I asked questions—they shared answers. But what exactly happened in the episode? What food were prepared? How did they fare? You have to watch I Juander on June 24, 2015 at 8:00PM on GMA News TV Channel 11 to find out! 😛

    Meanwhile, here are some BTS pictures:

    Watch the episode here:

    Enjoy! 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

    Ambiance: ★★★★★

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

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

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

    Service: ★★★★★

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

    Food: ★★★★☆

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    with Paul Pike, fourth-generation owner of Three Sisters

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

    Ambiance: ★★★★☆

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

    Food: ★★★★☆

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Ambiance: ★★★★☆

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

    Service: ★★★★★

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

    Food: ★★★★☆

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Price for Value: ★★★☆☆

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

    Thanks to Boss Spanky for the invite! 🙂

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/skullandbonesph” name=”Skull and Bones PH” description=”Second Floor, U.P. Town Center, Katipunan Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City” rev_name=”For inquiries, call +63 9162201668″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-06-09″ user_review=”17″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

  • Review of The Round Table – An All-You-Can-Eat Tasting Session (Kapitolyo, Pasig City)

    Review of The Round Table – An All-You-Can-Eat Tasting Session (Kapitolyo, Pasig City)

    The Round Table started its humble beginnings as Q Bistro, which opened at the Malayan Plaza, Ortigas in June of 2006. Early this year, it took another step to reach greater heights as it relaunched Q Bistro as The Round Table, along with catering company, Q Provisions. The Round Table (located in front of Zen Nutrients) was born to showcase an all-you-can-eat tasting session along with the goal of offering something fresh to the busy streets of Kapitolyo.

    There are a lot of factors that make The Round Table in Kapitolyo, Pasig a special restaurant. The food, handled by Q Provisions Catering’s Executive Chef Mia K. Capay, goes beyond the norm and what’s predictable. How so? The items on the “round buffet table” consist of various themes with several superstar dishes that change EVERY DAY. 🙂

    On Mondays, get ready to relish outstanding flavors of South American cuisine. Come Tuesday, a grand tasting tour of Italy with a pasta bar filled with exciting options of spaghetti, fettuccine or penne complete with red and white sauce awaits. On Wednesdays, it’s heavenly Mongolian dishes. Thursdays will have you filled up with the Filipino Twist theme, while Fridays are all about Roast Carving featuring Roast Beef, Roast Pork loin and Herbed Roasted Chicken.

    What happens on weekends? Saturdays and Sundays offer smartened-up menu version from Chef Mia with the luxurious flavors of French, Asian, and Spanish menu. WOW, right? This “all-you-can-eat tasting session” concept makes The Round Table an ideal and unique spot to enjoy different food specialties (available in the catering services) that will please pretty much anyone.

    Guess what’s most surprising! Regular rate per person is only PhP 295. But if you “Like” their Facebook page, the buffet rate further goes down to PhP 199/pax. Yes, it’s a steal!

    matchy outfits with Chef Mia and the event host :)

    Review of The Round Table – An All-You-Can-Eat Tasting Session (Kapitolyo, Pasig City)

    Ambiance: ★★★☆☆

    The Round Table can be a great venue for private parties, corporate lunches, and other exclusive events. Its interior design looked simple but functional, fully personifying the name of the establishment. The overall ambiance wasn’t stuffy but just casual so guests won’t feel pressured or pretentious to hang out and wind down anytime of the day.

    With a capacity of seating 25 to 30 people, the tables in the dining room are comfortable and quiet enough that you can actually carry on a conversation. There’s also a small bar setup for a quick drink and some comfort food. Neat!

    Service: ★★★★★

    The Round Table offers a personalized service that completes a much deserved dining experience. I guess they have the good advantage of having limited space so service could really be personable, concentrated, and on point. Food on the buffet table were served fresh out of the kitchen and staffs made sure that we were all well pampered with the feel of great hospitality.

    Food: ★★★★☆

    We came on a Sunday morning for breakfast. Food options on The Round Table may be limited and nothing too fancy, but good lord, they were all delicious. For appetizers, the potato croquettes, Q Salad, and bread antipasti were excellent on the lighter side. Also kicking off the meal just right were typical Filipino breakfast items with a twist: the homemade chicken tocino and pork hamonado. Both were mildly sweet and not with an overdose of sugar. You’re going to need to eat them with steamed white rice to balance the taste.

    The highlight of our meal must be the roast beef as it was so tender, hearty, and flavorful that you’d want to unhinge your jaw and get the entire piece down your throat. The meat was roasted for seven hours and I bet this is one of the dishes that’s worth a trip for. Chef Mia’s version of adobo is another must-try, as it was cooked with green mango puree and bagoong (shrimp paste) instead of the usual soy sauce and vinegar.

    For dessert, we had a slice of carrot cake—not to be missed! It was moist, perfectly dense, and unbelievably fudgy with a thick layer of cream cheese frosting slathered over the top. Other food items were good as well but not particularly as memorable.

    Potato Croquettes

    Antipasti

    Q Salad

    Chicken Tocino

    Pork Hamonado

    Arroz Caldo

    Tender Roast Beef

    Spiced Aglio Olio Pasta

    Rustic Fish Fillet with Olives and Capers

    Adobo sa Mangga

    Pork Ragout

    Carrot Cake

    Price for Value: ★★★★☆

    Ladies and gentlemen, you don’t have to be stuck with Locavore, Silantro Fil-Mex, RUB, Mad Mark’s Creamery & Good Eats when choosing restaurants in Kapitolyo, Pasig. The Round Table (Tasting Session) is the “new kid in the block” that has officially arrived. Presenting an exciting array and different themes of food every day with an affordable buffet rate of less than PhP 300 per person, this restaurant really has a good price for value.

    Note: Menu is uploaded on their Facebook page a day before so you would have an idea of what’s to be served on the day you’d visit. You may also contact The Round Table for inquiries about food.

    Birthday Promo Mechanics:
    1. 1 birthday celebrant is entitled for a free All-You-Can-Eat-Session for every group of 3 paying customers.
    2. The promo is only valid within the duration of the celebrant’s birthday month.
    3. Celebrant must bring a valid ID or proof of birth date.
    4. This promo cannot be used in conjunction with our current promotions and discounts including senior citizens discount.
    5. Gift certificates cannot be used to avail the promo.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/RoundTablePH” name=”The Round Table” description=”56 C&D East Capitol Drive, Pasig” rev_name=”For inquiries, call (02) 7061668 or 0922-8948509″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-06-05″ user_review=”16″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

    Operating hours:
    Breakfast: 7:00am-10:00am
    Lunch: 11:00am-2:30pm
    Dinner: 6:00pm-10:00pm

  • Review of Cake Shots PH: Booze in Your Cupcakes

    Review of Cake Shots PH: Booze in Your Cupcakes

    Alcohol-laced cupcakes for every occasion. What’s not to like? Just last March 2015, Cake Shots PH launched its presence online featuring absolutely drool-inducing cupcakes infused with different kinds of alcohol. I’m delighted to receive a box of varied flavors of these sweetly sophisticated cupcakes from Patricia, its owner. Cupcakes with booze are a rare sight with most dessert shops in Manila.

    Review of Cake Shots PH: Booze in Your Cupcakes

    Service: ★★★★★

    If you have a spontaneous craving for cupcakes infused with alcohol, you may contact Cake Shots PH directly through the contact details provided below. Either pick up the order with well thought-out packaging at 3D Avalon Condominium, 95 Xavier St. Greenhills, San Juan, or opt to get it delivered. For pick-up orders, minimum is half dozen; for delivery orders, two dozens.

    Another option is to buy these treats via the Food Panda website, app, or call (02) 87878. Use the voucher entry code 30LOVEPANDA and get a 30% discount on your order (expires on July 1, 2015). Delivery time is 45 minutes (from shop opening time). Fee is 10% and there’s no minimum amount required to make a purchase.

    Food: ★★★★☆

    I’m a fan of red velvet cupcakes, and the Irish Creme Velvet Cupcake (Box of 6 – PhP 450; Box of 12 – PhP 850) spiked with Irish Creme Liquor from frosting to cake was a huge hit. The punch of liquor though was subtle and I’d appreciate if it’s more pronounced.

    Similarly, the alcoholic taste in the Vita’s Pudding (Box of 6 – PhP 450; Box of 12 – PhP 850) was not overwhelming but noticeable. The highlight must be the cinnamon-like smell of raisins bathed in Brandy Caramel Sauce that gave way for its fruity notes. The bread pudding tasted great. 🙂

    Spiked Chocolate (Box of 6 – PhP 450; Box of 12 – PhP 850) was one of the most compelling of all “Shots” cupcakes. The taste of chocolate was balanced by vibrant acidity of the Irish Cream Coffee. The moistness of the cupcake stood out, and the marshmallow frosting on top delivered just the right amount of sinful sweetness. Bomb!


    Coconut and lemon made an interesting combination for the Coconut Daiquiri (Box of 6 – PhP 450; Box of 12 – PhP 850). This cupcake had a light and fluffy texture and a pleasing hint of lemon Bacardi. While I barely tasted the alcohol that came into play, it was a nice attempt mixing these tropical flavors together.

    Spotting a chic and modern look with classic candy cane colors, the Cosmopolitan Cupcake (Box of 6 – PhP 480; Box of 12 – PhP 900) gave an affable and cordial touch with a smooth, rich, and buttery frosting. It’s made up of cranberries, vodka, orange, lime, and triple sec. Again, with this one, alcohol notes were a little dull, but I still enjoyed sharing the cupcake with my family regardless.

    Newest among the bunch, the Black Label Chocoholic may look demure and simple on the outside, but the taste of this cupcake is giant! It’s a double chocolate cupcake infused with Johnny Walker Black Label. This creation had a long finish, as the complexity of the flavors lingered in my palate the longest.

    When the initial alcoholic kick of the cupcake ebbed away, it was replaced by the earthy flowery undertone of the chocolate. With the cupcake soaking up the alcoholic taste like a sponge, the contrasting duet resulted to a satisfactory level of deliciousness. 🙂 Now if there is only one item you would order, I highly recommend the Black Label Chocoholic.

    The only “Virgin Shot” in the box, Carrots Delight (Box of 6 – PhP 450; Box of 12 – PhP 850) is a non-alcoholic cupcake for a tame yet pleasurable experience, good for kids! Its texture was pretty dense with alluring carrot-y flavor, and the cream cheese frosting and walnut topping were divine. 🙂

    All in all, Cake Shots’ cupcakes were great and nothing of the dry sort. However, one thing I hope they can offer is the option for customers to choose the level of alcohol content on the cupcakes (e.g. none, light, medium, heavy, etc.). I wasn’t expecting to be drunk after eating the “Shots” cupcakes or somewhere close, but I think that adding more alcohol will brighten up the taste and set the “Shots” farther apart from the “Virgin Shots.”

    Price for Value: ★★★☆☆

    The pairing of cake and alcohol is pure heavenly. Every flavor of Cake Shots’ boozy bakes surprises out of the jack box, filled with ingredients that reveal distinct tastes plus a shot of booze that adds a zing to the seemingly innocent cupcakes. Prices are fair and reasonable, crediting the high quality of ingredients used and freshness of the pastries as delivered. Quite honestly, I wouldn’t mind taking one of these cupcakes on a weekly rotation to go along with my 4PM-afternoon snack at work. 🙂

    Cake Shots PH Menu

    [schema type=”review” url=”http://www.instagram.com/cakeshotsph/” name=”Cake Shots PH” description=”For orders and inquiries, Text/Viber/Whatsapp/WeChat +639063269209 or email cakeshotsph@gmail.com” author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-06-03″ user_review=”12″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”15″ ]

  • Review of Cebu’s Best – Rico’s Lechon Restaurant (Mabolo, Cebu City)

    Review of Cebu’s Best – Rico’s Lechon Restaurant (Mabolo, Cebu City)

    When in Cebu, it’s almost mandatory to try Cebu’s best lechon (unless you are a committed vegetarian). We asked several locals for recommendations, and the most popular answer was Rico’s Lechon. Intrigued, we made sure to have a meal in one of its branches before leaving Cebu City. So what’s with Rico’s lechon that everyone is craving for it? It must be their original discovery: the best-selling SPICY lechon, the first in the Philippines.

    Rico’s Lechon serves lechon with ingredients that penetrate the deepest part of your taste buds. Cooked with precision and served with perfection, the lechon is dished up with only garlic and leeks. Is it really that good? We’re keen to find out.

    Review of Cebu’s Best – Rico’s Lechon Restaurant (Mabolo, Cebu City)

    Ambiance: ★★★☆☆

    This branch of Rico’s Lechon in The Ridges Commercial Building emphasizes a casual and easy spirit rather than sophistication and formality. Interior design was very simple and clean, with palettes mainly yellow and white. Setting a welcoming vibe, the arrangement of the tables and chairs was orderly, straightforward, and functional. The dining room was quite spacious and the ambiance looked ideal for accommodating large groups (stacked chairs at the back).

    Service: ★★★☆☆

    Any meal at Rico’s Lechon centers in—you guess it right—lechon, as almost every item on their menu consists of it. We ordered their specialty, the Spicy Lechon but were saddened to know that they had ran out of it. What? It was only 7PM and everyone must have reserved an order of lechon ahead of time for delivery. It was just disappointing that the main purpose of our visit was defeated.

    Instead, we ordered baked scallops, however it was also unavailable. Frustrated this time, we asked the staff to just point on the menu which items we can have to be sure that we won’t hear the same comment. Later, good news came: one customer called and cancelled an order of lechon. The staff asked if we want it. Yes, please.

    Notwithstanding, service was kind and quick, and staffs were courteous. Inventory planning just needs a little improvement.

    Food: ★★★☆☆

    Crispy Lechon (PhP 180) when served did not have a nice crispy and crunchy skin, but there’s no denying that the meat was savory even without sauce. What’s good is that it hardly had any fat. The deal breaker for me though ended up with the texture. This one broke my heart because it’s chewy, dry, and tough like it was way overcooked.

    Next, we had Lechon Sisig (PhP 160)—fatty, juicy, and a bit salty. Served on a sizzling hot plate, it was an exciting dish with loads of flavor. We enjoyed it with white rice, honest and plain.

    Finally, a plate of Rico’s Lechon’s special Spicy Lechon (PhP 550/kilo) arrived on our table. The pork skin was far from crispy, but the meat was indeed tender and well-seasoned. Its spicy flavor was nothing we’ve had before and definitely close to addictive. For those who love lechon and spicy food, this is the perfect dish for you to try and cozy up to.

    Price for Value: ★★★☆☆

    Rico’s Lechon is a typical mid-tier Filipino restaurant serving unpretentious food that comes with affordable pricing. The lechon dishes we tried were packed with aromatic flavor cooked up differently. Theirs were some pretty good versions of lechon, but for the title of being “Cebu’s best,” I thought I want better than pretty good.

    [schema type=”review” url=”https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ricos-Lechon/196720380397974″ name=”Rico’s Lechon (Cebu’s Best)” description=”Unit 4-5, The Ridges Commercial Building, F. Cabahug, Mabolo, Cebu City” rev_name=”For inquiries/orders/reservation, call (032) 260- 2443″ author=”Rochkirstin Santos” pubdate=”2015-06-01″ user_review=”12″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”20″ ]

    Other branches:

    Rico’s Lechon – Corporate Office
    Address: One Paseo, Maria Luisa Road, Banilad, Mandaue City
    Telephone: (032) 344-0119 | (032) 239-2830
    Fax: (032) 344-1343
    Mobile: +63915-703-3964
    Email: info@ricoslechon.com
    FB: https://www.facebook.com/RicosLechonOfficial/
    INS: https://www.instagram.com/RicosLechonOfficial/
    TWITTER: https://twitter.com/dabestgyud/

    Rico’s Lechon – Commissary
    Address: Highway 77, Talamban Cebu City, 6000 Cebu City, Philippines
    Telephone: (032) 344-0119 | (032) 239-2830
    Fax: (032) 344-0119
    Mobile: +63915-703-3964
    Email: commissary@ricoslechon.com

    Rico’s Lechon – Mabolo Branch
    Address: F. Cabahug St, Cebu City, Cebu
    Phone: (032) 344 0119
    E-mail: mabolo@ricoslechon.com
    Rico’s Lechon – Mactan Promenade
    Address: Mactan Promenade, Airport road, Lapu-lapu City
    Phone: (032) 239-2830
    E-mail: promenade@ricoslechon.com