MORE THAN A GRILL PLACE

Other than great-tasting food, enticing ambiance, impeccable service, location and figures on the menu, my wife and I always look for family-friendliness in any food place.

Because we love our Kindergarten son, Gabby so dearly, he’s our topmost priority of course, particularly in choosing a place where we can chow down;  either in a  turo-turo, a fastfood joint or a restaurant in hotels or somewhere, there should always be something for Gabby to munch and/or to keep him busy.  

Before heading to the Century Corned Tuna Bloggers’ Cook Off at The Stock Market where I was invited to be one of the foodie-judges, we had our late lunch at TEXAS ROADHOUSE GRILL in Bonifacio High Street last Saturday.  It was our first time to eat there and you know our expectations.

We’re really really ready to grab a bite at something for it was past one in the afternoon already.  As we’re quickly ushered in to our table; we immediately browsed the menu and we’re offered dried peanuts as appetizers while waiting.  Luckily, not too long after we ordered, the cowboy and cowgirl wait staffs of Texas Roadhouse Grill brought to our table these…

WILD CHEESE FRITTERS, PhP 200 but we got it for FREE because we have a coupon stapled at their flyer valid until 15 November. KIDS also EAT FREE every weekend at Texas Roadhouse Grill but since we availed of this promo already; we only got one freebie.  No worries, for cheese sticks are one of Gabby’s favorites.  It’s a bunch of fried mozzarella sticks in marinara sauce.  It’s a really good starter!

While Gabby was enjoying his wild cheese fritters, Tina had this…SWEET SOY MARLIN, PhP 385+.  It’s a great serving of grilled Blue Marlin drizzled with melted garlic butter, served with Texas rice and fresh veggies.  I, of course tasted what’s on Tina’s  plate and like her, I was amazed at how they grilled the fish into almost perfection!  It was so flavorful I almost forgot it wasn’t my plate, LOL One thing that I like best with most restaurants is when they serve freshly blanched veggies that they cut and sliced themselves.  I am so partial to those who try to avoid using instant corn and carrots that are readily available at most supermarkets.

It was definitely a late lunch for us without red meat because I also chose seafood to pig-out.SHRIMP and SALMON SKEWERS, PhP 420+ .  Three skewers of juicy shrimp and salmon, grilled and seasoned with Roadhouse herbs and spices. Served on a bed of Texas rice and fresh veggies.  The cowboy-server was so compelling that their dishes are best served with sauteed mushrooms, so I requested an add-on; but little that I know it’ll cost me PhP 95+, a  price that’s equivalent to 3 cans of button mushrooms already!  Ayos lang,  it really complemented my plate well. 

If you’re a frequent reader of my posts, you know by now that I do love almost anything with shrimps. I like it buttered, steamed and yes, grilled.  This plate of shrimps and salmons + veggies and lemon butter sauce was my HAPPINESS last weekend! It may be pricey yes, but a sure treat to someone who likes seafood so much.

Of course, a better way to cap a nice meal is to have a sweet ending.

Gabby’s choice for our dessert-to-share :   COWBOY CHOCOLATE CAKE, PhP 220+. This is described in their menu as the most decadent chocolate cake in the West. Rich, moist chocolate cake; you’d ask for more! It’s topped with vanilla-flavored ice cream coated with melted chocolate. It was so heavenly! (that my wife told me its price sky-rocketted to 7th heavens! She meant was there are some who offered almost the same kind of dessert for less)  :D  Good thing about this was the fact that Gabby liked it.

The place is cozy; we like the  tavern look made up of wooden planks and swaying doors to the kitchen and toilets. One side of the resto has the bar where one can enjoy a good drink while watching a nice play at their flat screen TV. 

The wait staffs clad in plaid long-sleeved shirts with scarves and in boots were commendable for being courteous and smiley.

We dined there at Texas Roadhouse Grill with other families who were also enjoying their weekend.  It’s enough proof that it’s a good place not only to hang out with friends but a venue where wholesome family fun can be enjoyed.

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TEXAS ROADHOUSE GRILL, Bldg 1 Bonifacio High Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.  Tel # (63-2) 856-1547 / 856-2499.  Other branch at Ruby Road, El Pueblo Real de Manila, Ortigas, Pasig City. Tel # (63-2) 635-6715.  

 

EATING TUNA HAS NEVER BEEN BETTER

If you must know, my family and I have been eating CENTURY TUNA for decades now. Personally, it’s one of those canned goods I like on my sandwich, or as simple as rice toppings and appreciate it more on some dishes. I like my Century tuna flakes or chunks in brine, oil, water, hot and spicy and their flavored variants of Mechado, Bicol Express and the like. So when this brand came out with their newest innovation, adding to their line of products a few weeks back, I was one of those many who became so curious of how it’s going to taste like.

I love corned beef particularly a local brand and Century tuna a lot like I love eating; and I honestly never thought that these two can make a great fusion and can transform any instant dining into a healthier experience and a little more edgy until they introduced CENTURY CORNED TUNA! 

Saturday, 07 November ‘09  – I went with my wife, Tina and our 5-year-old son, Gabby to THE STOCK MARKET (the restaurant, not the stock market we all know! It’s called as such because it’s where Del Monte showcases its stock of products from salad dressings to fruit juices etc.) at Bonifacio High Street in Fort, Global City in Taguig City for the CENTURY CORNED TUNA BLOGGERS’ COOK OFF.

We were served with these plates and a choice of iced tea or lemonade…The sandwich and the pasta was made better with what else but Century Corned Tuna. 

So did I cook? Did I participate in the ala Iron-Chef-Bloggers’ Cook Off? I was fortunate to be invited via e-mail last week as one of the (self-proclaimed) foodies and food bloggers to this event (Yes, this blog remains to be about my family and our adventures beyond dining!).  My participation was upgraded to the next level when I was asked (via e-mail again) if I can sit as one of the…ehem,  judges.   Who says doctors &/or educators can’t be best food tasters  critics ? We also have our own discriminating palates, LOL!   Needless to say, I obliged. 

The contest was lively hosted by celebrities JM Rodriguez and QTV QUICKFIRE Chef-Mom Rosebud Benitez (my family is a fan of her cooking show).  

Here are the ingredients that the bloggers had to include, but not necessarily all, as they were tasked to prepare an appetizer and an entree per team.

While the food bloggers in Team A and Team B were busy preparing for their dishes… 

my name was called by the hosts as one of the GAME participants!  C’mmon, can you spot me ?   

 

While I was busy guessing the condiment as we taste it blind-folded, our adorable son, Gabby was busy too posing for the cam   Isn’t he the cutest 5-year-old kid?  You cannot agree less and I cannot blame genetics, hahaha! 

My fellow foodie-bloggers made sure that their pasta was cooked al dente!  I’m no chef but I follow my own rule of  no-cooking-beyond-ten-minutes to make it pasta-perfect!  It usually works.

While waiting for their contest-entries, my co-judge, Ariel was so generous to take our pic with the 2009 Century Tuna Superbod Model Winners…(papasa na din ba kaming Tuna models? hehehe )

 

On with the judging thing… Team A and their starter…

Team A’s appetizer was canape made of soft white bread topped with Century Corned Tuna on slices of tomato with asparagus.  Their main dish was…Fusilli in olive oil highlighted by the main ingredient plus tomatoes and parmesan.  

On the other table was Team B with their starter…

It was a salsa made of….pears! and pita tortilla with Century Corned Tuna filling ala quesadilla… and their entree was the bomb itself!  

Tagliatelle in olive oil topped with the main ingredient, asparagus and chopped almonds.  Believe it or not,  it was delicious!  Now, can you guess who won?

 

Judging was damn easy; given a set of criteria and my own gastronomic instincts, I believe I was fair enough for the two teams.   It was a unanimous decision actually. And it was fun doing it

They’ve proved that they’re not only good on food blogging but knows culinary as well.  And they did their best dishes with Century Corned Tuna!

There was a dinner buffet after the contest but we beg off as my family and I were still full. After I was given a token of  box of 6 cans of Century Tuna Bangus Fillet Spanish-Style Gourmet, I thanked the people who invited me and politely exit to Timezone and Starbucks.

Sarap itong Century Bangus fillet! Try it too! I’ve never enjoyed bangus like this before.

 Have you tried CENTURY CORNED TUNA already ?  Grocery shelves are running out of stocks. 

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Thank you to the management of Century Corned Tuna and all the people behind this event particularly Mr. Christopher Santos (not my relative)  for inviting me here. Salamat !

INSPIRE YOUR SENSES

Guess where my family and I spent our Thursday afternoon?

            The world’s best ice cream + priceless family bonding moment = absolute bliss !

I got an invitation to attend Haagen-Dazs branch Opening at Robinson’s Place Manila.  How can you resist such wonderful event ?  How can you say no to such luxurious indulgence ?

Haagen-Dazs continues to allow Pinoys to enjoy the world’s creamiest ice cream by opening a new branch at the ground floor of the Midtown Wing of Robinson’s Place Manila.  The set up of the new shop boasts not only of Italian designed furnitures, freezers and dipping cabinets but moreso of those remarkably delicious ice cream flavors.  

The well-organized occasion started with a simple yet satisfying cocktail party by TGI Fridays…

I only had a plate; kept my cravings in control and left more gastric space for those dense velvety ice cream!

They initially served Haagen-Dazs Dark Chocolate Orange cups. It’s a perfect sweet ending to a stimulating quick bites and a wonderful prelude to the program.

Unlike the other press launches, the event forego of  the usual fashion show and whatnot; it was made more special by having short three-act show by 3 gorgeous models.  The play was about 3 different women living in the same building with a common search for an inspiration.

A young, hip and edgy had been stuck with nothing to complete her lyrics for a song until she was totally inspired by a tub of Haagen-Dazs

Then there was a damsel who got troubled by her boyfriend over the phone who eventually found solace in a tall glass of that irresistible delight

Who would not agree that Haagen-Dazs is such a perfect partner to celebrate success of whatever magnitude?  This was also depicted in the last scene wherein a yuppie got her promotion at work.  She immediately called her friends to share her happiness expressed in cones and cups of  Haagen-Dazs ice cream.

  

Any shop inauguration is never complete without that ceremonial ribbon-cutting.  And I don’t think there’s anyone more appropriate to to do such act but United States Ambassador to the Philippines, Hon. Kristie Kenney.

FYI, I follow her blog; check my sidebar on the right -I even commented on some of her previous posts. You could just imagine how thrilled we were to have attended this event with her. She’s so wonderful up close. She smiled and smiled sincerely. She simply radiated and represented effortlessly not only her country but everybody who loves ice cream!  We liked her most when she said that everyone she left at the embassy was so jealous of her attending Haagen-Dazs Opening .

Ambassador Kenney was graciously assisted by Haagen-Dazs-Philippines General Manager, Ms. Tess Panganiban and Robinsons Land Corporation Business Unit General Manager, Mr. Cornelio Mapa.

They also had that ceremonial scoop wearing those HD head caps and enjoyed Macadamia and Chocolate flavored yummies.

When we were ushered back to the lobby, these great tempting treats were served generously…

Isn’t it apparent on Gabby’s smile that he’s so excited to try that plate?

CHOCOLATE TEMPTATION is one of Haagen-Dazs’ Christmas menu. It’ served with pretzel sticks on top of two butter cookies, layered with scoops of DARK CHOCOLATE ORANGE, MIDNIGHT COOKIES and CREAM, BELGIAN CHOCOLATE, CAPPUCCINO TRUFFLE and TIRAMISU, garnished with almond bits and cherries. 

That’s sinfully delicious.

CHOCOLATE CHRISTMAS SPIRE : consists of scoops of BELGIAN CHOCOLATE and DARK CHOCOLATE ORANGE ICE CREAM, served on top of a layer of COOKIES and CREAM ice cream and warm BROWNIE CAKE.

What a divine creation from Haagen-Dazs! Truly, impeccable…I, my wife and our kid just love it!  

Indeed, it was another glorious fun-filled family activity for us! We’re definitely coming back for more!!!

And did I already tell you that we went home with press kits + freebies too?

Haagen-Dazs is not only the world’s best ice cream;  it’s such an experience!

So what Haagen-Dazs ice cream flavor/s is/are your favorite/s ?

Thank you so much to Haagen-Dazs Philippines, particularly Robinsons Place Manila branch!

Maraming Salamat to Ms. Nadal, one of the nicest PR and events manager we’ve ever met for the invites.  I look forward for more to come, hehehe More Power to Haagen-Dazs!  God bless

HAAGEN-DAZS Robinson’s Place Midtown Wing is open from 10AM to 9PM daily. 

Other Haagen-Dazs branches are located at SM Mall of Asia (5561111), SM Megamall Atrium (6382971), Shangri La (634-8108), Glorietta (7527299), Greenhills (721-0111), Alabang Town Center (809-2016), Power Plant Mall (899-3274), Greenbelt (757-7570) and Eastwood City (687-1839).

EAT AND BE MERRY

It’s not our first time to dine at JOHN AND YOKO in Greenbelt 5, Makati City.  We’re also quite familiar with the other themed restaurants within its group of companies-  MR. KUROSAWA  Euro-Japanese in Eastwood Mall and SUMO SAM in Shangri la (and other) malls as we’ve tried them a few times already.

John and Yoko, Cosmopolitan Japanese almost appears (and tastes) like the other two mentioned food places which are all co-owned by the local celebrity, Marvin Agustin.  They all feature union of the East and the West from their modern ambiance to whatever is served on the plate.     

The last time my wife, Tina, our preschooler son, Gabby and I ate there was a few months back.  I took pictures of what we enjoyed but unfortunately, I cluelessly pressed something on our cam that deleted every photos I had.  It taught me a lesson, big time! 

Last Saturday, after few hours of trick or treating, Gabby was finally convinced  that we had to munch something as our late lunch before he continues with his Halloween event at Greenbelt.  Thankfully, he and his mom agreed on John and Yoko and I was too weak to resist.  

It was our first time to try this dish last Saturday and we’re missing it already…   

JAPAELLA, PhP 378+.   One of Spain’s well-loved dishes was twisted anew with generous slices of chicken teriyaki, bite sized chorizos, my favorite prawns topped with nori strips. These ingredients rest on the most flavorful rice I’ve tested. Japaella also won my wife’s discriminating taste; we’re one in saying that we’ll definitely have this again next time we visit John and Yoko. Did I tell you it comes in enormous serving that’s good for 3 pax?  But since it was just perfect for our appetite; I don’t think Tina and I would share it with other friend/s or relative/s, LOL

Gabby ordered one of his staples…EBI TEMPURA, PhP 368+ /5 pieces.  Our son nearly finished the entire plate!  He had 4 out 5 of those battered prawns. He must be so tired and hungry then or it must have been that delicious for him, or he just really favored it over other Japanese yummies on our table. But I know he also likes kani (crab).  He enjoys dipping them on tempura sauce.  As for my two-cents worth, it may not be the best tempura in town but heck, Gabby was satisfied so we like this too.

IKA LINGUINI IN TOMATO CREAM SAUCE, PhP 228+.  This was my brother’s choice and because of its large serving, of course he had no choice but to share it with us.   Crunchy fried squid served as toppings in creamy pasta; not bad…but where’s the tomato?

CHISAU RICE, PhP 208+.  Tina ordered this bowl of rice+mushroom+chicken and nori strips. As she puts it, “Masarap naman.” but you know now that she likes my order better than this.

ICED TEA in BLUE (Dalandan), RED (Calamansi), GREEN (Lime), PhP 108+ each/refillable servings.  I like my glasses in BLUE and its flavor doesn’t disappoint.

FOOD : A bit pricey as expected of Japanese restaurant, but Japaella will keep us coming back. We also appreciate the use of (heavy) stone wares as plates and serving platters.

AMBIANCE :  Although we like its cozy, dim lights with black and white film of Akira Kurosawa being projected on one of its wall the last time we visited;  it’s a bothering thought that it can be so congested and a bit noisy during peak hours.    

SERVICE : Now, allow me to be extra serious with this.  I certainly profess that this resto, along with SUMO SAM and MR. KUROSAWA  ULTIMATELY NEEDS IMPROVEMENT when it comes to this department.  Their wait staffs, although clad in sexy black uniforms, should attend vigorous trainings on PUBLIC RELATIONS and HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT.  Read : THEY’RE NOT SERVICE ORIENTED as they don’t offer smiles and are far from being family friendly compared to other restaurants of the same cuisine.  

We waited for several minutes before they attended to our requests with no signs of being apologetic whatsoever.  

I controlled my temper during and after we dined but it doesn’t mean I won’t blog  do anything about it.

WE ARE PAYING CUSTOMERS and DESERVE nothing but THE BEST SERVICE THAT ONE CAN OFFER. Gaano ba kamahal ang ngiti ngayon?  What’s with their 8% service charge if they’re not on their best foot during work? 

Let me remind all the UNfriendly wait staffs of John and Yoko that other than the dishes on the menu, SERVICE COUNTS A LOT in restaurant business.

As I’ve stated on this free and unpaid advertisement for John and Yoko,  WE LIKE THEIR FOOD BUT PLEASE, they have TO IMPROVE SERVICE….They have to… It’s never too late for change before they lose customers who are supposed to BE VALUED.

Eating should always be a happy activity especially with family.  It shouldn’t be less interesting.

We will revisit this resto whenever possible not only to grab a spoonful of that Japaella again   but particularly because  I am STILL optimistic that they’ll change for the better.  

 

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JOHN AND YOKO, 2F Space 205 Greenbelt5, Ayala Center, Makati City. For more of John and Yoko’s menu, click  here

TRICK OR TREATING 2009

Guess where we had fun the whole day today?

The queue was apparently looooong but heck, we were there to wait for our son to be registered and got his coupons for the participating high-end shops’ Halloween goodies.  

We woke up at around 6AM without electricity and less rain but with strong winds.  It was typhoon signal # 3 in Metro Manila since yesterday because Santi a.k.a. Mirinae had slammed via Quezon Province en route to Batangas thus hitting the capital and nearby provinces.  Thankfully, it weakened into a tropical storm this afternoon and allowed the streets to be dry and the sun to show up.  

Like Christmas, Halloween is much anticipated fun-filled event especially by kids like our own.  Come hell, or high waters, it should be celebrated

Honestly, our 5-year-old son, Gabby initially wanted to wear his dream this Halloween. So weeks ago, his mom, Tina and I bought him a toque, an apron and a napkin as accessory for he wishes to be a chef someday.  But when Tina got him a face paint kit from Market, Market 2 days ago,  we decided for Gabby to wear his last year’s costume to his preschool party which was held yesterday morning, and to TRICK or TREATING today at a mall…  

Grooming -hair and face-paint, by my lovely wife, Tina…   

My youngest brother who reported to his work this morning somewhere in Makati texted me that it’s safe to go to Greenbelt 5 for there was no traffic and sky was getting clearer. So we didn’t waste time and headed off to G5.

SPOTTED :

We saw Mr. Edu Manzano at House of Obagi with someone who chose not to be photographed.  We really appreciated his efforts of posing for our son for few sec and even told Gabby, “You look good!” 3x!!!  - Now, I know Mr. Manzano’s sooo honest!

At  GREYONE SOCIAL  :   Ninjas alike!

At  ZARA :  When Gabby approached their counter and handed in the coupon in exchange for their Halloween treats, the people of Zara were all smile at him.  They admired him and his costume so much. We like Zara and we love their staff at G5 even more!  

At HIVE : This furniture and interiors store’s staffs were also welcoming. Thank you for being kind to kids! May your sales double up in the coming days…

At  YOH-GURT FROZ FRO-YO :  The yogurt that tops our favorites was one of the sponsors

We became excited when we saw Pepper Lunch’s banner at G5.  It’s high time for PL to sizzle it their way to Makati.  I wish they’ll have Quezon City branch too.  We’ve tried Pepper Lunch a few times already (and did some posts here) in Powerplant and Shangri la malls.  Incidentally, we also passed by a shop that also features PL owner’s (Chuvaness) shirt line Heather Miss Grey.

  

At CROCS : Gabby smiled when he saw clones of the slippers he’s wearing   …We also asked Gabby to pose near Rolex watch store that became a news item when it was robbed few days ago. It’s business as usual as if nothing happened.

Then at half hour past one in the afternoon, we ate lunch at John and Yoko (I’ll post it soon).  After we chow down, we went to Glorietta to buy some supplies. 

No tricks, just treats… 

Sure, anyone can afford all these but not HAPPINESS that came with it.  

Gabby’s SMILES and OUR FAMILY BONDING MOMENTS are simply priceless.

PS : Did I tell you that Gabby won the CUTEST KINDERGARTEN PUPIL award (note : not the scariest) in their preschool’s halloween party yesterday?  I cannot blame them; our son is really adorable

Did you go trick or treating too?   Happy Halloween!

PASTA ALL YOU WANT

How many plates can you finish when a great deal called PASTA ALL YOU CAN, ALL DAY, EVERYDAY is offered only at PhP 150?

We’ve been wanting to try this great deal for the loooongest time but it’s only yesterday when the stars and the heavenly planets conspired that we found time.

My wife, Tina, our 5-year-old son, Gabby and I trooped to JOEY PEPPERONI PIZZERIA at their branch in Fort Bonifacio, just in the corner of Mckinely Avenue, Taguig City and had our late lunch. It was our first to sample their pizza and pasta and gladly, we’re not disappointed.

CLASSIC CAESAR SALAD, PhP 110 +.  Crisp romaine lettuce, bacon bits, crunchy croutons served with Caesar dressing. 

Ever since Gabby had his first taste of this pizza a few months back from another Italian restaurant, it has become one of his staples whenever dining out. We’re proud that our son has developed his own preference to food and at an early age, he knows his palate very well.  Tina and I can’t complain about his choice of flavor; this one’s simple yet deliciously fulfilling.

QUATTRO FORMAGGI (Four Cheeses) 8″ pizza,  PhP 165 +, also available at  12″ at PhP 335+.  This thin crust pizza has no toppings but parmesan, fontina, mozzarella and ricota.  Sarap!

The pasta dishes included in the promo are…PESTO (original price PhP 145 +).   Made of basil, cashew nuts and parmesan cheese in olive oil.  Pesto tops my list of favorites of all pasta dishes.  Joey Pepperoni’s may not be the best pesto I’ve tasted but it’s not bad either. I like it.

CARBONARA (original price PhP 155 +).   Pepper cream sauce and bacon bits in spaghetti.  Joey Pepperoni Pizzeria’s version of this usual pasta got my wife’s vote, considering her discriminating taste.  It’s best eaten immediately after served so as to avoid the pasta being dried as it can absorbs the creamy sauce in a few minutes.

BOLOGNESE (orginal price at PhP 175+). Classic meat sauce.  It isn’t as good as the other two but then again, perhaps it’s just me.

FYI, Joey Pepperoni’s PASTA ALL YOU CAN promo has those three dishes in big servings that even foodies like me and my wife who both have huge appetite and great passion for eating may surrender easily.  Honestly, since those pasta are prepared no less than usual, they’re all deliciously satisfying that I only had 3 plates (yes, I sampled all of them, hehehe) and Tina only had a plate and a half (I ate the rest of her second serving ) of Carbonara.  I tell you, with PhP 150 deal of yummies for more than a plate, you can never complain. 

For the three of us, the winner among those we’ve tasted at JP’s pizzeria is…FROZEN CAPPUCCINO MUD PIE, PhP 90 +.  This definitely is one of the reasons to visit JP again.  It’s so delectable that we find it hard to resist. Satisfied the sweet tooth in all of us, hands down. It’s enormous serving and cheap price gives everyone a chance to enjoy life’s simple pleasures   It’s such a perfect sweet ending to a binge self-indulgence of carbo-rich plates.

We had their iced tea, bottomless for only PhP 50.

Friendly and polite service, affordable good food, high ceiling + casual dining ambiance = we like! 

The only thing I dislike with Fort branch is the presence of a communal toilet. It would be nice if they can have separates for both genders and a bonus for physically challenged and/or a family room with diaper deck for babies.   Nonetheless, we’ll surely visit again, not only that branch but else where.

This has been another fun-filled, budget-friendly dine-out with the two people I love the most.

Life has been so generous.

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PS : After that hearty meal at JP’s, we concluded that we’re nothing compared to the YOUNG (as in she looks like early or 20 something) LADY from Las Piñas City whose picture appears at the promo card at JP’s tables because she at  present, holds the record for having enjoyed NINE PASTA plates!  Can you handle that?

Joey Pepperoni Pizzeria. Fairways Tower Condominium 5th Avenue corner McKinley Ave., Fort Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. Other branches and details can be found at their website –> here.

BORACAY SERIES : NATURE AT HER BEST

This is my 6th and last post in this series.

Few meters and a tricycle ride from Boat Station 1, we found ourselves out of the beach and into another fascinating place where Mother Nature still reigns supreme…

On one of our days in the island, my wife, Tina, our son, Gabby and I visited the small but interesting butterfly farm at Fairways and Bluewater in Boracay.  It only took us PhP 30 of tricycle ride, PhP 60 per adult entrance fee (Gabby’s free!) and a few minutes to appreciate these lovely winged creatures… 

 We kept our silence while in the vicinity so as not to disturbed the butterflies and…

more butterflies and surprisingly, these nocturnals…

Who would have thought that those delicate butterflies can exist symbiotically in this farm with an owl and a few number of bats ?

It was our first encounter with bats and man, the smell was not good!  But at least they remained  in deep sleep while we’re in their midst.

It was a sort of an impromptu educational field trip for our son

Our Boracay break may have been too short but we enjoyed it, definitely.  

Gabby got some shells, cut corals and a handful of powdery sand from the shore.  And before we left the island paradise, we spent our last morning at the beach as early as 6.  We had another dip and took a stroll once more.  

  

It’s difficult not to miss Boracay, particularly Boat Station One where sand is finest and everything is surreal. 

We can’t be thankful enough for the opportunity to visit one of the best beaches in the world.  We’re so glad that the weather was best  all throughout our days in Boracay and our flights went smoothly.   

Life cannot be better than this.

BORACAY SERIES : FEAST FOR THE SENSES

This is my 5th post in a series…

As I walked several meters away from Willy’s Rock at Boat Station 1 in Boracay; I left my wife, Tina and our 5-year-old son, Gabby shortly while they were busy playing on the powdery sand,  I came across this exquisitely themed beach front restaurant and bar at the far end of the white beach on our second day in island last week.

With wooden tables and large cushioned couches in vibrant and attractive hues,  I didn’t pass the chance to sneak in and inquired about their lunch and dinner. 

At half hour past 9 in the morning, I found myself too early for KASBAH, an amazing Moroccan food place located at few meters from the shores of one of the greatest beaches in the globe.

The gemstone colors of tables and seats and Moroccan lamps all over the place are so fascinating that one may experience a slice of Northern Africa.  With priceless ambiance and authentic interiors, I can only expect nothing but the best cuisine.  

The moment I entered Kasbah, I asked a staff for their menu. I became interested with some tangine and couscous in a heart beat. 

 

I was too early to spot Kasbah; I was told they usually open 11AM onwards.  The chef and his staff were not yet around when I came.

I could have tasted Seafood Tagine and Saffron, Couscous Lamb Tagine and perhaps Baklava for dessert…

No worries…

No regrets…

There’s always a next time ..

Have you experienced Morocco in Boracay?

BORACAY SERIES : A FOODIES’ PARADISE

This is my 4th post in a series.

I felt I gained 10 pounds  kilos after our brief family break in BORACAY  last week.   You can’t blame me, the island itself is an epicurean paradise; there are tons of gastronomic temptations…

Can you resist this?COUPLE ICE, PhP 260.  This is one of  Red Bean Halowich’s refreshing delights.  Thinly shaved ice available in  2 flavors- either milk or mango serves as the base.  We chose mango ice.

Toppings include corn cereals and red mung beans and a ton of tropical fruits -slices of bananas, pineapples, mangoes, watermelons and cherries with a huge swirl of vanilla soft ice cream.       

 

The moment we walked through D’mall in Boat Station 2 and saw Red Bean Halowich’s window display, we never had second thoughts of entering their airconditioned restaurant to try their iced sweet treats. We only ordered that big bowl and a glass of iced tea for Gabby.  Couple Ice, second to their biggest serving, is huge enough to be shared by 2 to 3 people.   The bowl reminds me of Red Mango’s, except that Halowich’s is more enormous in size and contains ice, not frozen yogurt.  Nevertheless, we love it.  Ask my family.

  

While Halowich offers the best alternative to the famous Pinoy Halo-Halo,  ARIA  for us (my wife Tina, our son Gabby and I) is another must-try restaurant in the island.  A vibrant and relaxing vacation in Boracay is never complete without tasting the best pizza and best pasta from ARIA CUCINA ITALIA.

The fast and friendly wait staff who attended to our table told me that Aria is owned by an American restaurateur with some foreign partners; they also co-own Cafe del Sol, a coffee shop beside Aria and a Japanese restaurant located in the middle of D’Mall.  

This was my plate from Aria…

  

Gabby was asking for pizza on our second day at the beach.  As we try not to eat anything that can also be found in malls and Italian restaurants and fastfoods  in Manila, we sat in Aria and gave in to our son’s request.  We ordered…QUATTRO FORMAGGI, PhP 475 +.  It’s hard to overlook Aria’s finest woodfire oven-baked pizzas.   Aria’s version of four-cheeses pizza is light yet satisfying and flavorful.  The amazingly delicious crust is topped with four different cheeses : pecorino, feta, parmesan and mozzarella.    Gabby had his smile up to his ears when the pizza arrived at our table.

BOSCAIOLA, PhP 370+.  A creamy sauce of mushroom, ham and parmesan cheese on pasta of your choice.  We had the white sauce on penne. Wow, sarap!  

There are many choices in Aria’s menu that are worth a try.  There are insalata or salads, meat dishes, antipasti and other flavors of pizza and variants of pasta.  Did I tell you already that Aria has wine selection too ?

What to have for dinner in Boracay ?

A few meters from the shore, as dusk comes to the island, beach front restaurants transform the coast line into a seafood and meat buffet, al fresco dining.    

What’s a  BORACAY VACATION without sampling the freshest catch from the sea?  The spreads, which include fruits and some desserts, mostly cost PhP 250 per pax nett, excluded of drinks.  While the price of the buffet is so affordable, would you believe that a 1.5 liters of Coke regular costs PhP 140 (regular Manila price around PhP 37 to 40 only).  But heck, we have to try the seafood buffet here even for a night. 

On my plate…

On Tina’s…

The gluttons in us had two rounds of the spread and a plate of watermelons and few servings of maja blanca and other kakanin and that’s it.  Yes, the crustaceans are fresh; there were garlic and boiled rice even some pasta and fish dishes include Lapu-lapu and Tuna; there were grilled pork liempo and fried chicken too; there were adobong pusit (squid), crabs, baked oysters and mussels and shrimps which I like the most but sorry there were the usual “lutong-bahay” taste.  In simplest terms, there’s nothing special about the buffet we had. 

My wife and I have this ordinary rule of thumb when dining out : we try to eat something reasonably priced, that can’t be prepared easily; something gourmet, or unusually present at our table at home.   And even though we’re satiated after that seashore pig-out, I still felt a bit disappointed. Perhaps, I was expecting more from the spread.  At any rate, try it as well, you might like it.  As what I usually post here, ‘to each his own’.

What’s best with our eat-all-you-want- dining in Boracay or elsewhere (including hotels in the Metro), our 5-year-old son still eats for FREE   Although he only ate soup and few servings of fruits, we’re still happy that we didn’t pay a cent for his plate.   

Another must-try in Boracay is LEMON i CAFE  located at the heart of D’Mall in Boat Station 2. This resto boasts of all-day-breakfast ala carte menu, delicious entrees and of course, desserts.

On the afternoon of our first day in Boracay, Gabby was looking for McDonald’s or Jollibee for his favorite staples.  To no avail, I and his mom asked him of other food he wanted to chow down.  Thankfully, he pointed to a cake on a glass window display from Lemon i Cafe.

TIRAMISU, PhP 120+.    This is one of the best Tiramisu I’ve tasted, hands down.   Gabby’s picky palate likes it too.

For most travelers like us whose budget isn’t sky’s the limit,  finding affordable food places that offer combo-meal that also doesn’t disappoint is so comforting. 

D’Mall also has ANDOK’S that offers budget-friendly meals like… PORK SINIGANG, PhP 69.   Andok’s big bowl of sour soup of pork and veggies is surprisingly delicious!  The string beans, kangkong and tomatoes are  fresh. FYI, we haven’t had anything from Andok’s in Manila other than its grilled chicken + gravy + atchara or pickled papaya. Now, we know that there’s more of it than lechong manok.

SIZZLING SISIG, PhP 145.  Lipid-rich Sizzling Pork Sisig is one of Pinoy food favorites.  Since we don’t eat it on a daily basis, I guess having it on a plate during a (self-declared) holiday is logical enough (*defensive*).   Tina and I like this, malinamnam!  (tasteful, compared to other restos’).

We also sampled Andok’s PORK BARBECUE, PhP 22 per stick and Gabby was delighted with Andok’s LECHE FLAN, PhP 34.

And I almost forgot, our brief stay in the Boracay was made special each morning with FREE breakfast inclusive of the package we availed from ESCONDIDO BEACH RESORT.  A plate of toasts, fried egg, butter and strawberry marmalade plus a cup of coffee is quite simple but good enough to start our days in the island.  

When you have a chance (again) to be in one of the world’s best beaches, take your vacation to the fullest by defining your digestive pleasure. If  without dietary or health restrictions,  go ahead, by all means, INDULGE!  

Up next :  More Boracay posts…

BORACAY SERIES : THE BEACH FROM DAWN TO DUSK

This is my 3rd post in a series.

Boracay has its unique Filipino charm. It has the glorious sunrise and the most magnificent sunset.  And who can resist its turquoise crystal waters and sublime powdery sands?  My family and I are missing it already

Our first morning in this island paradise was truly unforgettable.  After a restful night, my wife, Tina, our 5-year-old son, Gabby and I made an effort to rise from our bed few minutes after 5AM to freshen up and hit the waters as early as 6AM.     

Mother Nature has this scene to offer every sunny morning during off season at Boat Station 1…Boracay beaches is divided into three boat stations – Boat Station 1 has the finest, pristine white sands comparable to talc.  As Boracay first-timers, we can’t help but to get few samples to bring home as a priceless souvenir

Since the area isn’t as busy and is less crowded than Station 2 and 3, the hotels here are too pricey than others but with best amenities and services.

We stayed at ESCONDIDO BEACH RESORT in Station 1; since it’s not a beach front hotel,  it’s budget-friendlier but nonetheless, relaxing, safe and with the warmest service too   Few steps from Escondido and after crossing the main street and passing through a sidewalk in between 2 beach front hotels, we’ve an access to the waters already… 

That second rectangular hole from the left served as our path to the beach.   

Willy’s Rock, named after a beach front resort near it,  is one of the attractions in Boat Station 1.  It has impressive rock formation near the shores and a grotto of Our Lady.  

It’s so amazing to see it on both high tide and low tide. 

Breathtaking views of the white beach of Boracay can be best appreciated from the uppermost area of Willy’s Rock, all 360 degrees of it!

I guess anyone can enjoy Boracay at its most quiet moments during off seasons and every sunrise when most tourists and backpackers are still asleep or intoxicated with alcohol from a nightout.  

Here’s another view from the top most area of Willy’s Rock …

For people like us who lives in urban areas, this rock formation is a sight to behold…

We just can’t hide the fact that we’re enjoying Willy’s Rock that morning…Wala kasing ganito sa Greenbelt o TriNoma, LOL…

I found this signage very important that I wish everyone in Boracay, tourists or not, should always take into action.

When Tina and Gabby sat on the sand and played with it, I left them for a while to take a short walk from Willy’s Rock to the northern part of Boat Station 1…

Next are  my “NOT OUR HOTEL”  photos…LOL…

Seriously, you might be interested and consider these beach front hotels on your visit to the island.  But then again, you know now what I recommend. Sea Wind Boracay Island Resort

Sur Boracay Resort

Ambassador Hotel…

Pearl of the Pacific Boracay

Residencia Boracay

Other than those in my photos, the other notable upscale resorts in Boat Station 1  are Discovery Shores, Fridays and the newest addition to them – Shangri La Boracay   If you have the budget to splurge, go ahead, by all means indulge!  It’s your vacation anyway!

As I went back to Willy’s Rock, I noticed my family became too busy making sand patterns…

I tried making one, but I just left it with Tina and Gabby

We ate breakfast at the hotel, took showers and headed again to the beach.  We walked and walked and walked from Boat Station 1 to 2 where most restaurants, establishments including ATM machines are located (I’ll post about D’mall and our eat outs next on this series).

In the afternoon, Boat station 2 has these sights to boast…

PARAW or sail boats with two outrigger canoes (or for us Pinoys, katig) predominate the shores of Boat Station 2 when winds are present every afternoon… Paraw with boat men are all for rent with price starts from PhP 600 per hour.  Did we try it? No. Gabby, Tina (and I) preferred to pig out rather than to sail  

Actually, my wife has vertigo making her too anxious of an attack during airplane and boat rides.  So we rather dip into the water, eat, savor the wind, sand, and sun than sail or take island hopping… Island hopping which usually takes more than 4 hours going to Puka Beach and Crystal Cove and other isles near Boracay costs about PhP 1,500 and up; some offer snorkeling gears and free snacks and buffet lunch too.

Seeing all these made me realize why Boracay is considered one of the best beaches in the world.  Tourism is alive regardless of season in this island.

Other than riding the paraw or sail boats, island hopping or taking glass-bottom boat rides, parasailing and scuba-diving can also be enjoyed.  Most people we saw also have henna tattoos on their bodies which are so affordable from PhP 50 up and stays temporarily on the skin for 2 weeks.  We never tried it for 2 reasons - we fear of paying damages when sheets at the hotel are stained and it’s not just us to have tattoos, permanent or otherwise.   You can also ask and pay some women to braid your hair or get some relaxing massage by the beach or inside their facilities.  Other attractions or must-do in Boracay is riding an ATV/all terrain vehicles which costs roughly thousands of pesos depending on the duration of driving. We saw some of these on the main road with the local tricycles and other vehicles.  Since ATVs don’t have its own trail,  driving it puts anyone to an accident-prone area especially with reckless drivers.  For some, it’s part of the thrill.  To each his own. 

Fantastic is an understatement.  Despite the commercialism, we wish Boracay could be maintained as serene and as clean as this so more local and foreign tourists can enjoy Boracay for many years.

It’s a common thing during weekends to spot marvelous sand castles  along the shores and in front of those beach front hotels.  Pictures may be taken for a voluntary donation of any amount.   Before dusk, these sand castles are illuminated by lighted bottles.

Indeed, Boracay is such a fascinating island to explore.  It’s so gorgeous that one can easily be lured and seduced by its beauty. It’s too enticing to people who long to leave the busy life even temporarily.

We’re just glad to finally enjoyed it

What’s your best memory of the beaches in Boracay?

Up next : our Boracay food trip!