Chic quality all-day dining @ Cafe Republiq,Resorts World Manila

Cafe Republiq, a stylish, chic cafe serving “World Cuisine”, adjoins the much acclaimed Republiq nightlcub at the Resorts World Manila complex. Prominently placed with a large glass frontage  onto the Atrium space of the Newport Mall, Cafe Republiq is open all day for lunch and dinner, and very late / early mornings on the nights when Republiq is open. It has become a popular choice for club goers to have some dinner before moving on next door, or for re-fueling after a night of partying in the club. The Cafe Republiq is also a good option for lunch, or dinner- even on the nights when Republiq is not open.

The Cafe has a dining space and bar inside, and additionally tables outside facing onto the Atrium space. The style of decoration is contemporary chic – with extensive use of natural building materials such as exposed brickwork, timber flooring, and plush heavy velvet curtains. The dining tables feature white marble tops, and elegant chairs  and sofas are upholstered with a matt black “suede” leather. The seating arrangement inside is spacious with plenty of room between tables. The table outside are more numerous and offer excellent “people watching” opportunities.

The food menu at Cafe Republiq embraces “world cuisine” and much of it could be categorized as “comfort food”- with generous serving sizes and many familiar dishes. The extensive menu includes Soups, Salads, Dips & Crisps, Appetizers & Munchies– all good for sharing or as starters. The more substantial offerings include Quesadillas, Sandwiches ( BLT, Steak sandwich, etc), and Burgers– Angus beef with bacon or chili cheeseburger. Main dishes include Grills– Salmon fillets, USA Angus beef, Pork Chops; and local favourites such as Crispy Pork Belly, Master Chang’s Deep Fried Chicken, and Fish and Chips.  And a selection of Pastas. Breakfasts offer choices for both Filipino style- Chicken Adobo, Bangus Fillet, Beef  Tapa; or Western favourites like Fried Eggs, Bacon , Ham & griddled potatoes, and Steak & Eggs. On top of all this, many Side Dishes and of course- Desserts. Prices are reasonable- and the service is professional, friendly and attentive.

Cafe Republiq

Address: Second Level, Newport Mall, Resorts World Manila, 1309 Pasay City. Philippines
Tel: +63.2.659 7702
Reservations email: reservations@republiqclub.com
Parking: Valet parking

Opening Hours:
Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 11:00am ~ 12:00 midnight
Wednesdays     11:00am ~ 5:00am
Friday & Saturday    11:00am ~ 7:00am

Facebook Page
Twitter: @REPUBLIQ_
Website: http://republiqclub.com/

c”,) bokita

Paradise of the South : Club Punta Fuego

Punta Fuego, meaning “point of fire”, is composed of high-end residential beach front properties located at the Batangas area only a couple of hours away from Manila.

Marrying the beauty of land with the conveniences of modern facilities, Club Punta Fuego is the perfect location for a special wedding day. It is an ideal wedding destination for locales and balikbayans.  This summer one of my closest cousin based in Australia chose this paradise in the south as their wedding location.  It was a blissful event and a perfect vacation for me as well.  Allow me to share with you my Club Punta Fuego experience.

The Club

“Don’t grow up too quickly, lest you forget how much you love the beach.” — Michelle Held

 

The View

“love builds up the broken wall

and straightens the crooked path.

love keeps the stars in the firmament

and imposes rhythm on the ocean tides

each of us is created of it

and i suspect each of us was created for it”

—Maya Angelou

The Beach

“I have always loved the beach. The smell of the salty water, the wind in my face, the gentle roar of the waves all combine to create a sense of peace and calm.” —Anonymous

The Casitas

“My life is like a stroll on the beach

as near to the edge as I can go.”—Thoreau

And above all the FOOD!

I sooooh love their breakfast buffets! I wish we could all stay for a month or so!

CLUB PUNTA FUEGO
Balaytigue, Nasugbu, Batangas
Tel. No: (043) 781-0385 ◊ Fax No: (632) 584.4401
www.clubpuntafuego.com.ph

c”,) bokita

BORACAY UP CLOSE

Crystalline water, white, talcum-like sand and swaying palm trees define what is known as one of the world’s best beaches – Boracay, Philippines. Boracay Island is part of the Western Visayas island-group in the Philippines, along with the western part of the province of Negros, the island of Panay, and many smaller islands. An all-year-round tourist destination, Boracay offers unlimited relaxation and entertainment to all.

Going to Boracay is an experience that you will probably never forget. Boracay is a very unique place and caters for everyone, single, married or as a family and is a really safe haven.

If you are traveling internationally the first major hurdle is getting to The Philippines and most flights arrive into Manila and a few into places like Clark and Kalibo. Zest Air do fly direct to Kalibo from Korea and if you can get to Kalibo rather than Manila it will make life a little more easy for you whilst going to Boracay.
There are basically 3 different ways of getting to the island – by sea, air or land. Actually you will need a combination of all these as you will see.

Where Is Boracay?

Boracay is more or less 315 kilometers south of Manila. The island is approximately seven kilometers by one kilometer and has two famous beaches namely White Beach and Bulabog beach.

The island has won various awards and has been considered one of the best tropical beaches in the world and I can virtually guarantee that once you visit here, you will want to come back!

Going To Boracay By Air

The fastest way going to Boracay is by Air and there are a number of different airlines that will take you there. Seair, Zest, Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines and PAL Express all have flights there most of them every day. My first plane ride was with Philippine Airlines from NAIA Centennial Terminal 2.

When you fly to Boracay, you cannot actually land on the island, but need to land at either Kalibo, which is a 90 minute bus journey away or to Caticlan, which is about 20 to 30 minutes away. Caticlan is easier because it is closer but there are limited flights there daily as the airport is fairly small.

If you land in Caticlan, expect a short journey by pickup or tricycle to the boats, but if you land in Kalibo, expect a 90 minute to 2 hour bus journey. Either way you will arrive in Caticlan Harbor where you can get boats going to Boracay, which is now only 10 to 15 minutes away by boat. Flights can be from 35 minutes to 1 and a half hours depending on which airline and plane you take and prices change daily, so check with the airlines, but sometimes you can get real bargains.

 

Going To Boracay By Sea
If you have time to kill, then going to Boracay by sea can be a much cheaper, but slower way to go. WG&A and MVR Lines both have ships two or three times a week that will take you near or directly to Caticlan where you once again have to take the short boat ride to get to the island.

Shipping safety in The Philippines has not been brilliant over the last few years with a number of ships sinking, so I personally would not travel this way, but it is an option you may want.

Going To Boracay By Land

If you are on Aklan (Panay) then you can drive to Caticlan, but which ever way you get to Caticlan, you will still need to get a boat eventually as there is no land to land connection!

This really is an island!

What to expect on the island

By day, White Beach is a mecca for sun worshippers, the clear pale blue shallows and indigo depths a refreshing playground for waterbabies of all ages. At night the silica strip becomes a dance floor and lounge bar.

Cleverly hidden behind the coconut palms that line the length of the beach are sprawling resorts and backpacker hostels, souvenir stalls, a boutique shopping mall, international restaurants and bars – all of which are meant to attract the tourist peso.

The beautiful island of Boracay has much to share to its guests and visitors. This island is not only for people who love to bask under the sun in white sand beaches and those who love to swim in the island’s sparkling waters. It is also for those who love adventure as well. People who go to Boracay do not only enjoy the island’s white sands and crystal blue waters; they also enjoy doing different activities in this enchanting island in the Philippines.

Boracay has indeed become a hub for water sports and adventure activities such as island hopping, scuba diving, banana boat riding, snorkeling, parasailing, kite boarding and the island’s unique underwater experience which I bravely tried called the helmet dive or reef walking are just some of the activities that one can do in Boracay. And believe me, our 4 days stay on the island wasn’t long enough!

The food choices on Boracay are quite plentiful, ranging from simple hamburger snack shacks, seafood buffet meals, and Mongolian treat to fine dining restaurants in the AAA Boracay Resorts.

Regardless of your food choice you will find that with so many restaurants on Boracay Island it will be easy to find something for everyone. With over 200 restaurants on Boracay Island you are sure to find your favorite food served here.

Here’s more of Boracay ~ up close!

For me, Boracay is simply one place where you’re sure to forget all about your worries and just totally have fun!  There is a different air of fun about it, which makes vacations all the merrier, unforgettable and will surely mean I’LL DEFINITELY BE GOING BACK SOON!!! ❤

MANILA BAY TODAY: A Fish Tale and A Sweet Treat

When I was a kid, I remember passing by the Manila Bay area along Roxas Boulevard whenever we travel to and from Manila to visit my grandparents. This area used to only attract the less fortunate in life and on weekends the odd fitness fanatic on their early morning jog, mind you the jog over unkempt concrete paths could have been suicidal! What was once an area to be missed because of pickpockets and other little nasties, has been transformed into a thriving, cosmopolitan, safe and modern attraction and entertainment scene.

Manila Baywalk

In 2006 the construction of SM Mall of Asia, the world’s 4^th largest shopping mall and the second largest shopping mall in the Philippines, Manila’s Bay City has captured the Philippine capital’s imagination with outdoor restaurants, open air bars, chic cafes, unique entertainment and spectacular activities.

SM Mall of Asia, Entertainment Mall, Bay Boulevard view

 

Bunjee Fun Jump

 

Wow Balls!

When is the best time to visit the place?  Without a doubt the best time to go to the mall’s bay area is just on sunset.  It is not surprising that romancing a loved one is very popular along the Manila Bay, young and old lovers alike enjoy the sunset revealing in each others company.

Sunset at Manila Bay

A Fish Tale

Since my Bok’s sister and kids are visiting Manila for the summer, I decided to give them a treat.  We had dinner at Fish & Co. located at the Ground floor South Wing, Entertainment Center of SM Mall of Asia. Inspired by the simple practice of South African fishermen who immediately cook their catch in a pan, everything at Fish & Co. is served similarly. Fried, grilled or baked, Fish & Co.’s seafood comes with wonderful sauces, dips & chips.

Fish & Co.’s Main Entrance

 

Get Hooked!

Giant Lobster!

Although the menu is a bit pricey, their food is served in generous portions.  We started off with their soup of the day, New England clam chowder which was rich, thick, creamy and flavorful.  I love the heavy cream as it stimulates my palate and the combination of all its ingredients (ham, baby clams, potatoes, onion and celery). 

New England Clam Chowder (P130)

And simultaneously, had their Prawn Fritters for appetizer, a simple and easy dish delicious on its own and great with salad too.  It is crispy in the outside with the batter and soft inside with the shrimp in the middle dipped in fish & co.’s blue cheese dip.  Although, I thought it was good for sharing, it seemed like the fritters weren’t enough for my Bok alone.

Prawn Fritters (P355)

Next came the star of the night, their Seafood Platter 1 consist of baked butterflied prawns, cream of dory fillet, fried calamari and fries served on top of a pan of seafood rice. Lights, camera, action! And everyone dived in for the main course. It was a fish-tacular experience! 🙂 That cream of dory is marvelous! Now, I’m truly hooked!

Seafood Platter 1 (P885)

Baked Butterflied Prawns, Cream of Dory Fillet, Fried Calamari & Fries on a pan of seafood rice

And lastly, we tried their Grilled Pork chop Basilico – succulent 2pcs.porkchop seasoned and grilled to perfection, topped with tomato caper relish. The meat was tender, soft to the slice and juicy inside. 

Grilled Pork chop Basilico (P560)

The kids enjoyed it and everyone was so stuffed.  After taking some pictures, we were all craving for ice cream and luckily Selecta’s The Creamery was just right beside Fish & Co. and we decided to give it a try for some sweet treat.

 

A Sweet Treat

Selecta has set up a fun-inspired restaurant in the Kids Universe where families can enjoy full meal casual dining treats aside from the cold menu from the ice cream bar. 

Ice cream Haven for Kids and Kids at Heart  ❤ *wink*

The Creamery’s main dining menu offers a wide range of appetizers, soups, salads, pastas, pizzas and other main courses.

The ice cream bar is actually a bus!

The Creamery’s ice cream bar, on the other hand, carries inventive and mouth-watering desserts like the Chocolate Lover’s Banana Split which we ordered, Oozing Chocolate Lava, Delicious Frozen Mango Torte, Irresistible Tiramisu and many more.

Chocolate Lover’s Banana Split (P205)

There’s also a whole range of sundaes mixed and matched with huge scoops of ice cream, fruits, puddings, cake slices and cereals.

The Creamery’s menu

Kids Universe houses Cosmic Kidz, a five-story kiddie play area and the largest playground in Manila as of today.  Kids now have their own special place dedicated to pure fun, enjoyment, and interactive learning. It’s a great place for kids to chill with their friends and the rest of their family.

Selecta ice cream indeed became a part of every Filipino family bonding time, not only at home but even at the mall. (Wow,branding!)

 

Nevertheless, it was a fun-filled, tummy delight and memorable night for all of us!

Fish & Co.

G/F Entertainment Mall, South Wing, SM Mall of Asia

Pasay City, Metro Manila Philippines

(632) 556-0683

 

 

The Creamery

G/F Selecta Kids Universe

Entertainment Mall, SM Mall of Asia

Pasay City, Metro Manila Philippines

(632) 556-9195, 901-1424

  

c”,) ‘bokita’

The Flavors of Summer!

“Nothing like the summer time, baby
homies in the park go, crazy
cruisin’ in the block with your, lady
in the, in the, in the sunshine
kickin’ back to the Summertime Anthem!” [performed by: Mr. Capone-E]

Yes, indeed! Everyone’s favorite season is here! Summer is a time to think escape, but the city holds most of us captive. The easiest way out of this city heat is behind the doors of any of the air-conditioned malls nearby. And since today is another non-working holiday (April 9 – “Araw ng Kagitingan”) My Bok and I thought we needed sometime to reunite after being away for that 5-day trip to Bacolod. I’ve been dying to try this new Australian gelato brand that first opened in Cebu and now has its very first Metro Manila branch at Greenbelt 5. Yes, finally they are now on normal operations and happy to serve. 🙂

Gelatissimo is an Australian gelato company that boasts of offering a taste of authentic Italian frozen dessert. Gelato differs from ice cream in that it has lower butterfat content. At Gelatissimo café, you will be treated to a variety of frozen desserts from a wide range of gelato flavors to assorted sundaes; premium roasted coffee and
traditional Italian Biscotti to suit the tastes of the whole family.

I’m glad that it’s a holiday because there were only 2 tables occupied when we entered the café. I often pass by the area on my way to work and it’s usually swarmed with people during lunch time. It’s right at the smack of GB5’s entrance at the end of the walkway from landmark before you turn right to Ayala going to PLDT main building. Their location is very visible, I’m sure you won’t miss it!

After placing our order, we explored the gelato café and found an interesting spot at the back!

Cool love seat don’t you think?! If only it wasn’t directly beside the bathroom door…*snicker*

Gelatissimo’s Chocolate Chips and Choco Hazelnut

I indulged myself in a couple of scoops, Chocolate Chips and Choco Hazelnut. And the minute they melted in mouth, I know it’s Gelato Love! It has that rich and smooth flavor that makes it distinct from our local ice cream. Believe me at P160 for a medium cup, the price is truly worth it! They come in three cups, small – 1 flavor, medium – 2 flavors and large – 3 flavors.

Gelatissimo’s Italian Cappucino

My Bok on the other hand tried their Italian Cappucino which I also find very appealing with its rich aroma and thick steamed-milk foam.

They also have Bambino Cones. They are basically bite-sized cones with chocolate, vanilla, hazelnut and mango gelato dipped in chocolate coating. Kids and kids at heart will surely enjoy it!

Next time, we’ll try their sundaes and shakes! Oh, I can’t wait!

‘Til our next post! 🙂

Gelatissimo Cafe
2nd level,Greenbelt 5
Makati City

c”,) ‘bokita’

Semana Santa in Manila 2010

The Holy Week is one of the most important religious festivals in the Philippines. In this predominantly Roman Catholic country, Holy Week is known as either Semana Santa (the Spanish translation of the religious festival itself) or Mahal na Araw. Many superstitions abound regarding this holiest of weeks, such as that wounds inflicted or received on Good Friday take long to heal and that amulets acquired on the said day are especially powerful.

For many Filipinos this Catholic celebration affords us a few days’ vacation when we can go away for a well-deserved break or seek some quiet and do some deep thinking. For others, it is an opportunity to do some penance by recreating the events leading to Christ’s crucifixion and his rising from the dead.

This year as one of the many family traditions we observe, we went on a Visita Iglesia (Spanish for Church Visits) around our neighboring cities. We left our homes at exactly 7am with the list of churches in mind. The tradition of visiting seven churches on Holy Thursday or Good Friday is an ancient practice, probably originating in Rome, where early pilgrims visited the seven pilgrim churches as penance. In the Philippines, the faithful carry out this tradition and some expand it to include fourteen churches and say the Stations of the Cross, with one station in each church. The following are the 7 churches we visited according to their accessibility from our place:

1. Mary Help of Christians Shrine, Parañaque City
2. St. John Bosco Parish Church, San Lorenzo Village Makati City
3. Greenbelt Park Chapel of Sto. Niño dela Paz, Ayala Makati City
4. Sanctuario de San Antonio Parish Church, Forbes Park Makati City
5. St. Alphonsus Mary de Liguori Parish, Magallanes Village Makati City
6. Shrine of Jesus, The Way, The Truth and the Life, Pasay City
7. National Shrine of St. Therese of the Child Jesus, across NAIA 3 Pasay City

Among the seven churches we visited, the last one really amazed me. My aunt and cousins did well agree. I was so amazed I didn’t realize that a shrine so huge, all of 6,200 sq m sitting by the Villamor Air Base, across NAIA 3, ever existed. They say that this is the cross-shaped edifice one sees across the new airport, when one’s plane makes a landing. It’s now famously becoming a new landmark.

Envisioned to be the center of devotion to St. Therese of the Child Jesus in Asia, the Shrine is well-equipped with features and amenities that make a celebration of faith truly enriching. Consider this:
• center for St. Therese relics
• stained glass featuring highlights of St. Therese’s life (itself a museum)
• ecclesiastical museum
• adoration chapel
• family prayer room
• complete with video and audio capacities
• fully air conditioned
• sound-proof
• seating capacity: 1,800 seats
• souvenir shop and a cafe

Where can you find, at least in Asia, an ultramodern shrine, fully-airconditioned, 3 levels, with 42″ plasma TV for the psalms and announcements? The church area itself has a sitting capacity of 1,800 people. Gee, a bride who will walk down its aisle would need to walk 50 meters (yes, 50 meters) from the church door to the altar, to display gown and all in her beaming radiance.

My family and I were all in awe as we explored the place and could not help but take pictures of the surroundings that we even forgot to say the closing prayer of the Station of the Cross! Ooops, haha! We said in it the car instead on our way home. 🙂

 

We stopped by Chowking near our village and grabbed something to replenish ourselves since everyone seemed famished and exhausted under the scorching heat of the sun. When my eldest cousin asked me what I want, everyone almost said in unison…Let’s have HALO HALO! And we all did!

Chowking halo halo

Halo-halo (from Tagalog word halò, “mix”) is a popular Filipino dessert that is a mixture of shaved ice and milk to which are added various boiled sweet beans and fruits, and served cold in a tall glass or bowl.

I enjoyed my halo halo with Chowking’s chicharap and plain tofu. Yummy combination,right?!

Chowking chicharap

Chowking plain tofu…no pork,pls.!

It was another fruitful lent for me because I was able to spend the holy week with my family and observe it through the Vista Iglesia. And as an act of self-mortification, no cell phone for me for the rest of the day!

 

 

Chowking

Enjoy delectable , Chowking goodies anytime, anywhere!

Call their delivery hotline 702-8888 now! Philippines only

 

 

 

c”,) ‘bokita’

Discovering the “City of Smiles”. . . BACOLOD!

It was my Bok’s first time to fly out of town. Sad to say…without me! *sob* Nevertheless, I am still glad because my Bok brought home a story to tell which is all worth sharing with you . . .

The Province of Negros Occidental

Bacolod City (Filipino: Lungsod ng Bacolod) is the capital and largest city of the province of Negros Occidental. Having a total of 499,497 inhabitants as of August 1, 2007, it is the most populous city in the Western Visayas Region. It is notable for its MassKara Festival held during October. The city’s name is derived from the Hiligaynon word bakolod – meaning “stonehill” – since the settlement was founded in 1770 on a stony, hilly area, now the district of Granada.

Bacolod City at night

“The City of Smiles”

Bacolod City is one of the best destinations in the Philippines. Great food, peaceful and serene community, easy access to basic needs, hospitable people – Bacolod is all these and more. Known for being a relatively friendly city, it bears the nickname “City of Smiles.” Bacolod City recently ranked no. 1 in a survey by MoneySense Magazine as the “Best Place to Live in the Philippines”.

My Bok boarding Zest Air

Bacolod City is 45-50 minutes by air from Ninoy Aquino Domestic Airport with daily flights via Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air Philippines or Zest Airways. Bok’s first plane ride was with Zest Air offering several newest Airliners that provide quality comfort safety for affordable rates. The ZestAir Philippines has at least 21 domestic flights, especially to the major Tourist attraction in the Philippines like Boracay, Palawan and Puerto Princesa City.

The New Bacolod-Silay Airport is one of the busiest airports in the Western Visayas region and was one of four trunkline airports, or major commercial domestic airports, in the region. The Port of Bacolod is a major seaport and has daily ferry trips to Iloilo City. By boat, Bacolod City is 18 hours from the Port of Manila and 45 minutes from the Port of Iloilo. By land, Bacolod City is approximately 3 hours from Iloilo City via Dumangas route.

 

Panaad and MassKara Festival

It was a fortunate thing that my Bok and Mommy V’s (Bok’s mom) visit coincidentally was in time for the Panaad Festival, an annual celebration and showcase of the towns and cities that make up the province of Negros Occidental.

During the Panaad Festival, towns and cities from all over Negros Occidental come to the capital city of Bacolod and showcase their towns in pre-assigned booths arranged according to where they are found in the Negros Occidental map. Usually, the place is near the Panaad Sports Complex near the heart of Bacolod City. Municipalities then decorate their assigned places with miniature replicas of the tourist attractions, historical and heritage sites found in their localities.

The industries from each town are also featured, including uniquely crafted handiwork, hand-painted shirts and food delicacies.

My Bok had a fantastic time seeing all these for the first time. The sights were truly unique showcasing Negros Occidental’s wealth of waterfalls, a cave in the town of Calatrava and the Mambukal Mountain resort in Murcia which is something we Filipinos should really be proud of. Bok brought me home a necklace with a colorful maskara pendant as a souvenir. Thanks,Bok! 🙂

Hand-painted masks used for the festival are also for sale

Nice head dress there, Bok!

My Bok clowning around! 🙂

Bacolod City is also known for its MassKara Festival held every third weekend of October. The festival is highlighted with the famous MassKara street dance competition, where people from all walks of life triip to the streets to see colorful masked dancers gyrate to the infectious rhytm of Latin-inspired dance music, accompanied with a dazzling display of mastery, coordination, and stamina.

 

From Bacolod to Iloilo to Boracay

Known for its scenic beaches, Boracay is one of the most popular destinations in Philippines. You can get to Boracay by sea, air and road. The easiest way to travel to Boracay Island is to take a plane from Manila domestic terminal and fly to the island of Panay in the Visayas. You can fly directly to either the cities of Kalibo or Caticlan on Panay Island. It takes around 1 hour to reach Boracay.

The fine, white, sandy shore of Boracay

Another way to get from Manila to Boracay is to take an air conditioned bus from Manila to Batangas. You can also board the ferry service from Manila that takes a night to reach Boracay. Boracay is served by 3 ports: New Washington, Dumaguit and Batan, Aklan to be dropped at.

Going to Boracay from Bacolod is a challenge! Name all the means of transportation and that spells adventure! By adventure this means getting up really early to catch the first fastcraft from Bacolod to Iloilo via M/V Weesam Express with daily trips from 6:30am to 5:10pm. When you get to Iloilo, there will be several vans on standby looking for passengers bound for Caticlan. These vans may be rented at approximately P2,000-P2,500 for a one-way trip. They will take you directly to the Caticlan jetty port in approximately 4 and half hours (4 hours if your driver is MadMax). You can also arrange for them to pick you up on the date of your return. From Iloilo or Bacolod on neighboring Negros Island, the only way to get to Boracay is by bus. Mini-vans or buses ply the 4 to 5 hour Iloilo-Caticlan route. Once you have reached Caticlan, there is a twenty minute banca trip to your final destination, the paradise island of Boracay! The banca trip will drop you off at one of the three Boat Stations on White Beach, which is on the west coast of Boracay Island.It was a indeed a long and tiring trip! My Bok hates long travel but this one is definetely worth the entire bumpy and wavy ride!

My Bok stayed at Casa Pilar Beach Resort,Boracay. Accommodation is at P2, 000.00 per cottage per night with complimentary breakfast. Not bad considering it’s already peak season! Buffet meals in the island would cost you P250 per head.

Not surprisingly, the culinary fare at Boracay is as diverse as the nationalities of its visitors. French, Australian, Belgian, German, Spanish and Thai-they’re all here side by side the native cuisine. Lending ample support to this virtual rainbow of fruit shakes: from sweet yellow mango, greens tart.

Boracay markets will take you to a world of new and exotic sights and impressions. You can easily spend hours looking around – observing the many people, examining the sometimes curious items on display, and buying necessities, souvenirs, local delicacies and much more.

D’ Mall is close to Bazzura Disco and the newest and most modern market on the Island. Like Talipapa, D’ Mall stretches from White Beach to the Main Road. Constructed by a single developer, the various shops have a structural design. The shop decors are all quite different, however, many are very original and attractive.

 

A wide range of products and services are available in these shops, including more expensive speciality items such as art work, handcrafts and antiques. Bars and restaurants are also in D’ Mall, with the more expensive ones near Boracay Beach and the less expensive closer to the Main Road.

Pinoy talent at work

Boracay sandcastle at day

Boracay sandcastle at night

After sunset, the island transforms into one exciting night of dancing and partying. But don’t take our word for it, Boracay is an island you have to experience yourself!

 

Turning back time at Balay Negrense, Hofileña Ancestral House & The Ruins

Despite the city’s highly urbanized growth, Bacolod is perhaps one of the very few cities in the country that has managed to preserve the beauty of the olden days so much so that despite its fast paced development, a part of Bacolod City will always look back and cherish its heritage.

One of the heritage houses in Bacolod, Victor Fernandez Gaston Ancestral House or more commonly known as Balay Negrense, showcases the lifestyle of sugar barons during the Spanish era. It houses precious heirlooms such as dresses, telephone, bicycle, furniture, among others. It also displays wire sculpture of various designs. Unfortunately, you have to book your visit in advance for you to be able to enter the house.

Another heritage house, Manuel Severino Hofileña Ancestral House, displays different art pieces life paintings (some of them were done by Juan Luna and Jose Rizal), furniture, books, etc.

It also houses the owner’s collection of the different stuff representing the different places in the Philippines. And do you know that the world’s smallest doll is found here in the Philippines?

One of Hofileña’s living room

Hofileña’s news articles from the past

Hofileña’s oldest wine barrel

Old Israeli oil juglet

The world’s smallest doll could only be seen through a microscope

The Ruins showcases what is left of the Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson Ancestral Home in Talisay City, Negros Occidental.

The Ruins

During its heyday, the mansion was the largest residential structure ever built. It boasted of its garden of lilies in and around the four-tiered fountain on the mansion’s front lawn and the finest furniture, chinaware and decorative items that its owners brought from their travels across Europe and Asia.

The mansion dates back to the 1900s when it was built by the sugar baron, Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson for his first wife, Maria Braga, a Portuguese from Macau whom he met in his vacations in Hongkong. The mansion’s structure is of Italianate architecture enhanced by a belvedere complete with renaissance-type ballustrading typical of the homes of English ship captains.

One of Don Mariano’s sons supervised the construction of the mansion making certain that the A-grade mixture of concrete and its pouring mixture was precisely followed. Thus perhaps, the marble-smooth finished walls’ sturdy response to the damage caused by fire when the mansion was torched during World War II by the USAFFE (United States Armed Forces in the Far East), then guerilla fighters in the Philippines, to prevent the Japanese Forces from utilizing it as their headquarters. The fire lasted for three days annihilating the mansion’s woodwork and bringing down its roof but the concrete structure was able to survive and persist.

Today, the 903 square meter skeletal structure stand proud, amazing local and foreign tourists. From the time that it was opened to the public in January 2008, it has become a favorite venue for wedding receptions, debuts and birthday parties (the rains could really be a downer, though). For a minimal fee of PHP25.00, one could take pictures around the mansion. Its owners, the Javellanas, are continually adding improvements in the place, even setting up a cafe which serves light drinks and snacks (for a fee, of course. And they are going to add some exciting stuff in their menu in the months to come.)

For me, the Ruins is best enjoyed during dusk. What better way than to slowly sip a good cup of coffee (best if spiked) while taking in the beauty of the sunset. The drama! If you stay a little more, you can catch the mansion in its mystic glow bathe with lights and learn some fascinating camera tricks from one of the care taker/professional photographer. Interesting huh?!

 

The Pastry Shop of Bob’s

Bacolod, being the capital of the sugar-producing province of Negros Occidental has been known for its sweet and delectable pastries.

Bob’s is the epitome of down-home Bacolod home-style cooking, whether it’s their soups like Batchoy and Pancit Molo, their gigantic cheeseburgers with melted cheese, or their Baby Back Ribs and Sate Babe. In between there are little surprises, such as their siopao stuffed with ubod and their huge Mongolian Barbecue or Halo-Halo tables.

Desserts, pastries and breads from their pastry shop complete the experience. Bob’s has been feeding Bacolod natives since 1965 and, no wonder every time you get up from a Bob’s dinner table, you have the distinct sensation that you’ve been loved.

Although I didn’t have the chance to travel, my Bok made me experience Bacolod through every story, photo and history he shared with me. Bacolod will surely charm you with the genuine warmth and hospitality of her people in harmony with their lilting melodious accent. The Bacoleños will delight you with food and cuisine that is as vigorous yet as subtle as the legendary Ilonggo gentility and taste for the good life.

 

Casa Pilar Beach Resort

Boracay Island, Malay Aklan, Philippines.

24-Hours Contact Numbers: Tel: (632) 910-4203 up to 05 

 

The Pastry Shop of Bobs

Robinsons Place Bacolod

Mandalagan,Bacolod CityPhilippines

 

(“,) ‘bokito & bokita’ c”,)

LECHON: The Star of All Occasion

Lechón is a pork dish in several regions of the world, most specifically Spain and its former colonial possessions throughout the world. The word lechón originated from the Spanish term leche (milk); thus lechón refers to a suckling pig that is roasted.

A showcase of roasted pigs

Lechón is a popular cuisine in Spain, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, other Spanish-speaking nations in Latin America, and the Philippines. The dish features a whole roasted pig cooked over charcoal. 

In most regions, lechón is prepared throughout the year for any special occasion, during festivals, and the holidays. After seasoning, the pig is cooked by skewering the entire animal, entrails removed, on a large stick and cooking it in a pit filled with charcoal. The pig is placed over the charcoal, and the stick or rod it is attached to is turned in a rotisserie action.

In the Philippines, lechón is often served with vinegar, lechon sauce (made out of chicken livers or liver pate combined with vinegar, garlic, and pepper), plum sauce, or other sauces, or with other seasonings or accompaniments.  Another variation, known as Pritchon, consists of a deep-fried piglet chopped into small pieces and wrapped in pita wedges (à la Peking Duck), and served with an array of special sauces.

mouth~watering indeed!

During my Bok’s thanksgiving party after finally getting his license in Dentistry, the lechon graced the occassion. We all had fun taking pictures of it and posing beside it. But most of all, we had an enjoyable time eating all of it!

the chopping ceremony of the lechon

the kids couldn’t wait for their turn

“Patay kang baboy ka!” (“You’re a dead meat!)

Who stole who’s apple?!

CONGRATULATIONS, MY BOKITO!

 

Lydia’s Lechon

551 Service Road

Roxas Blvd. Baclaran

Parañaque City (Philippines)
Telephone:
851 29 87 / 851 29 88 / 851 29 89
FAX: 854-9103
E-mail:
lydias@pldtdsl.net
lydiaslechon@yahoo.com
lydiaslechon@gmail.com

‘bokita’ c”,)

 

BAGUIO: A Culinary Experience

There’s no other perfect place to celebrate a post 3rd year anniversary like the romantic “City of Pines”, Baguio!  It is also known as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines” because of its cool climate, fresh, green and peaceful environment.  From the foot of the Mountain Province in the northern part of the country, dwells a stunning mountainous terrain of Cordillera.  The city is a six-hour drive away from Manila.  Me and my Bok left the metropolis at midnight and took a bus bound for Manaoag for our thanksgiving visit after my Bok passed his dentistry licensure exam last year.  And then from Manaoag, it took us another 3 hour travel by bus to Baguio and arrived there at nine in the morning. It was a long trip but it was all worth it!

houses in the sky – up in Baguio City!

Aside from the magnificent scenery and cool weather of the city especially during the holidays until January to February, Baguio is the best place to experience affordable dining at its best!

Little John’s Convenience Outpost

Our first Baguio meal was at Little John’s Convenience Outpost inside Camp John Hay located at the south eastern side of the city, a 5-minute drive from Upper Session Road-Loakan Road-South Drive rotunda.

Little John’s is a small food joint at the Mile-Hi Center right across the Camp John Hay Commissary (a commercial strip that offers duty free goods at reasonable prices). If you’re looking for a place with a picturesque backdrop while dining, Little John’s is the place to be! It gives you a view of a deserted hanging bridge amidst the tall evergreen pine trees of Camp John Hay.

What I like most of this place is their little art gallery which features various crayon-art works of kids who visited and ate at their place. The recycled papers they used are actually the placemats on the table where kids can creatively draw and color their artwork whilst waiting for their food to be served.

Little John’s wall of art

Little John’s Convenience Outpost is owned and managed by Johnet Flavier, son of former DOH Secretary turned Senator, Juan Flavier.

 

We sampled their baby back ribs Little John’s best-seller for only P145 coupled with a large hot bowl of clam chowder soup. And to complete the meal, we ordered a delightful chocolate fondue served with Baguio’s freshly picked strawberries, slices of bananas and cute little marshmallows! It was a satisfying meal all in all and that’s just the first…can’t wait for the next meal of the day!

Baby Back Ribs

Clam chowder soup

Chocolate fondue

Little John’s tissue holder, toothpick bottle and pepper sprinkler

 

Vizco’s Restaurant and Cake Shop

 After a visit at Bell Church and an afternoon stroll at Burnham Park, a brisk walk down Session Road serendipitously brought us to this cozy Italian resto-bake shop found only in Baguio known as Vizco’s. Its ambience is like that of Conti’s here in Manila where they also serve flavorful pasta dishes, pizzas, specialty dishes and pastries.

Vizco’s menu

the food

Vizco’s is very prominent in Baguio for their big cinnamon rolls and ensaymadas for only P33.  It tastes even better than the cinnamon rolls you buy at Starbucks for about twice the price.  I also read that their strawberry shortcake is a must-try!

Vizco’s cinammon rolls

Vizco’s specialty cakes

My Bok hungrily examined their menu and decided to try Vizco’s Italian Gambazette. We also had their Waldorf Salad good enough for two served with Baguio’s bountiful fresh and crisp veggies, chopped apples, grapes celery and a variety of other ingredients in a light mayonnaise dressing. I was craving for fish that time so I chose their Salmon Fillet in Saffron Cream Sauce but had to ask the food server to replace the rice with mashed potato instead. It was a perfect choice! The salmon complimented the mashed potato and that was the creamiest and yummiest mashed potato I’ve ever tasted! A thick slice of the cheesiest and chocolatiest Oreo Cheesecake in Baguio ended our meal.

this is soooh difficult! can i order ’em all?!

Vizco’s Waldorf Salad

one more shot…look at that!

Italian Gambazette

Salmon fillet in Saffron cream sauce w/ mashed potato

from another angle

Vizco’s Oreo cheesecake

Food Lovers

 

Tea House Restaurant

On our second day hunt for a place to spend our last meal in Baguio, Me and my Bok were both craving for bulalo (hot beef soup with vegetables enjoyed very much on a cold weather). The night before we thought we passed by a small eatery with the sign “bulalo” in front of its doorstep at Tea House along Session Road, a short walking distance from our hotel only to find out that it was actually “bilao” (a native woven plate usually used for noodles) written on their signage.  Their specialty includes pancit bihon guisado, authentic Chinese soup, Korean dishes and specialty cakes.

Tea House menu

For our starter, we had Hototay soup a  chinese soup dish that has become a part of Filipino cuisine. It can be a complete and filling meal by itself, served with rich and flavorful meat stock and Baguio’s fresh vegetable produce garnishe with slivers of pork meat, pork liver, chicken gizzards, dumplings, mushrooms and vegetables in a clear broth garnished with raw eggs. Sounds exotic? It is!

Hototay soup

Then for the main dish, my Bok indulged in a large plate of Mixed Seafoods with broccoli which really looks very appetizing!  I went for their Korean barbecue which is sweet and a bit spicy and was plenty enough to share with my Bok.

Mixed Seafoods w/ broccoli

Korean barbecue

After our last hearty meal, we headed to Baguio Central Market  for our pasalubong shopping. I was surprised to see how tidy and organized their market is. It is the only public market in the Philippines which is considered as a tourist attraction. No trip is complete without a visit to Baguio’s showcase of fresh vegetables, fruits, flowers, handicraft, silver, peanut brittle, jams and even little souvenirs.

Pasalubong shopping!

To sum it all up, our Baguio culinary experience was such an unforgettable one!  The best city that offers affordable food combined with its panoramic scenery, cool weather and unique ambience. We will always be craving for it for the next couple of months or so!

 

 

 

 

Litte John’s Convenience Outpost

Mile Hi Center, Camp John Hay

 

Vizco’s Restaurant and Cakeshop

5C Puso ng Baguio Building
Session Road, Baguio City
Tel. No. (074) 4467082

 

Tea House Restaurant

87 Session Road, Baguio City 

 

‘bokita’ c”,)

3rd Year ‘KINENBI’ @ Sugi

Sugi which means tall evergreen of Japan and China that produces valuable soft wood) is also known as a Japanese restaurant offering excellent, delectable and most authentic Japanese dishes in all of Metro Manila.  They have an amazing variety of dishes — gindara, salmon heads, beef teriyaki, spicy tuna salad, all sorts of sushi and sashimi, salads, tofu steaks, cream cheese filled makis … the list goes on and very fresh raw fish.  It’s not cheap in the typical everyday sense, but for Php600 to 800 a person, you can stuff yourself silly with high quality Japanese food your heart desires.

My Bok arranged the plan of celebrating our 3^rd year anniversary dinner at Sugi last November 27, 2009.  Sorry for the late post!  It was a special night for both of us.  The place was perfect for the occasion.  The ambience speaks of quality, class and authenticity.  Why don’t I let the pictures do the talking?!  So,here it goes…

entrance of Sugi, Greenbelt 3

the dining hall

view from the 2nd floor

bright large japanese lanterns

behind this cloth is the ladies room!

Yaki Meshi ~ Japanese Fried Rice

Ebi Tempura

Tofu steak special

 Lovers in Japan! *wink* 🙂

 

Sugi
G/F Greenbelt 2
Ayala Center, Makati City
Philippines
Tel. no. +632.757.3985-86

‘bokita’ c”,)