"As you walk and eat and travel, be where you are. Otherwise you will miss most of your life." -BUDDHA

Thursday, August 30, 2012

AyosDito's Surf.Click.Win Promo

AyosDito's Surf.Click.Win Promo

Hello guys! You might want to know what is the easiest way to earn money not the hard way today? Well this could be the most promising way I must say. Read on and make sure you join too!

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Campus Paper: The Philippines’ first free news magazine by students, for students



Campus Paper, the country’s first free national student paper. The pioneering publication was launched at the iAcademy, PhilFirst Bldg. in Makati City. It is the “first” news magazine, where writers, models, stylists, make-up artists and layout artists are all students. Distributed for FREE semimonthly (twice a month) to select high schools, colleges and universities in Metro Manila, it is—so far—the only media organization, where students from different universities can come together under a common student paper.

They may be undervalued and unappreciated but students can be a powerful force in helping our nation to move forward. And that is the main premise behind Campus Paper, the country’s first free national student paper.
Ricky Alegre, UPMG President and Ad Board Chairman

It was borne from the idea of giving students from different schools a common platform, where they can share their thoughts, tell their stories, and express themselves responsibly. “I believe it's about time that we pay attention to what students can contribute to the society,” says Lloyd Luna who is also Campus Paper’s Publisher and Executive Editor. “Giving them access—through Campus Paper—to the happenings in other schools would give them a broader appreciation of student life,” he adds. Luna, who has already published six motivational books, believes that while the student sector is “undervalued and often underappreciated, it can be a powerful force in helping our nation to move forward.”

Stackers Burger Cafe's Baked Fried Chicken

Stackers Burger Cafe
Stackers Burger Cafe
I was recently invited by a co-blogger to cover an event for the First-ever Baked Fried Chicken unveiled before the media by Stackers Burger Cafe. I must-agree that I never heard of anything like that product before, as someone who started her career in the food service industry. The very first adjective that crossed my mind was that this unique product invention looks so promising. Why not? With a populace that embrace and eat so much chicken no matter how it is cooked, this one will surely be marketable and make this cafe probably a bankable one too.

President Aquino’s SONA reflects ESQUIRE FINANCING’s devotion to Philippines’ economic growth


Data from the Bangko Sentral showed that micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) make up 99.6 percent of the total number of enterprises, account for almost 70 percent of total jobs generated, and contribute 32 percent of the GDP.

President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino‘s recent State of The Nation Address (SONA) stirred up hope and inspiration, given the numbers from Bangko Sentral. Aside from a rundown of his cabinet’s accomplishments and to do list, Aquino proudly emphasized that “what was once the sick man of Asia now brims with vitality”. The President substantiated this claim with the 6.4 percent growth in the GDP in the first quarter of the year, the highest in Southeast Asia. Aquino shared how commentators from the international community have lauded these achievements, with Foreign Policy Magazine even calling the Philippines “Asia’s Next Tiger” and financial giant Morgan Stanley investing a billion dollars in Philippine markets.
President Aquino’s SONA reflects ESQUIRE FINANCING’s devotion to Philippines’ economic growth
Esquire Financing Inc. (EFI) Chief Executive Officer Rajan Uttamchandani at the 4th Philippine Small and Medium Enterprise Expo last May 2012

Chinoypreneur Day


For centuries, the Chinese are regarded as pioneers in business. Ask a non-Chinese about a characteristic that best define them and you will likely receive this answer: good in business (the other is rich but that is the by-product of the first answer). Sometime in June, Forbes released its much-awaited 2012 Philippines’ richest. Not surprisingly, more than half of the 40 entries in the list were of Chinese descent, and not even critics can discount the economic value they contribute to the Philippines.

To date, this phenomenon remains shrouded in mystery. What made the Chinese so adept in business? What made the Chinese become movers and shakers in business at all?

The irony was that the Chinese never intended to become businessmen nor entrepreneurs when they stepped onto the Philippines let alone prosper from it. They were prepared to do anything. Historians and anthropologists agree that the Chinese venturing into business was about survival.

But those days are long gone now. Today, the Chinese fosters an environment that allows the youth to grow up to become entrepreneurs just like previous generations. Fortunately, the community supports such environment and continues to cultivate and harness the entrepreneurial spirits of the youth.

And count CHInoypreneur to support such cause.

Chinoypreneur Day

Villar Foundation Partners with DZRH for Manila Bay Cleanup



Villar Foundation Partners with DZRH for Manila Bay Cleanup
The Villar Foundation, in keeping with its environment-related advocacies, has inked a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC) as represented by radio station DZRH in its Manila Bay Cleanup drive. The said cleanup drive attracts hundreds of volunteers. As a matter of fact,  March this year, Mrs. Villar filed a petition for Writ of Kalikasan at the Supreme Court to stop another reclamation project at the Manila Bay. Fortunately, her petition was granted in April.

The Villar Foundation, led by its Managing Director Cynthia Villar, together with at least 1,000 volunteers from schools, barangays, NGOs, socio-civic organizations, and other private individuals and groups will join the cleanup drive. Their assigned garbage cleanup area is in the Las Piñas-Parañaque Critical Habitat & Eco-Tourism Area or LPPCHEA, off Manila Bay.

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Banana Leaf at The Podium

Banana Leaf at The Podium
Banana Leaf at The Podium
It was fourth Monday of July and I was feeling blue. To ease me up I need a dish that could somehow solve my undecipherable sadness. Weather was nice and set according to my likeness so my gastronomic buddy and I were determined to meet up at The Podium Mall, Ortigas to share a meal together at a restaurant known to serve authentic Asian cuisine. When you say Asian it is synonymous to that of Malaysian, Singaporean, Thai, Vietnamese, Indonesian and Indian, right? This made us all the more crave for these diverse dishes. It had been a year already since we last dated at this restaurant and I was delighted to know that anytime we can order delicious fare at strategic locations here in Metro Manila. It ballooned to so many branches since we get to know this restaurant 3 years ago and since Banana Leaf is known to be the pioneer in offering this wide-range cuisine in the Philippines, what do you expect? 

TOUS les JOURS: Authentic Bakery Since 1997


TOUS les JOURS: Authentic Bakery Since 1997
This is a common scenario when past 9 o'clock in the evening strikes. And it happens daily at Tous les Jours branch in SM City North, Quezon City. It was first introduced it to me by a sweet girl named Sumi and Melo after covering an event for a burger joint that is growing better than ever in Manila January of this year. Since then my mother and I have been a constant buyer of their half-priced bakery items which is such a promising venue apart from that of French Baker which shares the same idea of selling their items at 50% off the original price at least an hour before the mall officially closes. As a matter of fact this will be my very first time to blog about this authentic bakery even after so many joyful moments I had with it for the past seven months.
TOUS les JOURS: Authentic Bakery Since 1997
As per the description in TLJ's Facebook fan page, Tous Les Jours brand was launched in Korea in 1996 to give consumers a totally satisfying bakery experience. It launched an on-site production system for each store, which guarantees the quality of fresh, delectable cakes made from the finest ingredients. Also, as a domestic leader in the bakery industry with over 1,700 stores, Tous Les Jours established Korea's first, Internet-based Total Information System (TIS) for franchise operations; first bakery mileage card system for consumers; and modeled the development of multi-bakery shops to maximize the reach of its outlets. Through these and other services, Tous Les Jours continues to be a step ahead in technology and service in the domestic Korean industry.

Monday, August 27, 2012

Tea Zone Special Tea Drinks

Tea Zone Special Tea Drinks
Tea drinks as we all know is presently  in demand and famous beverage  that quickly outsmart or should I say outnumbered that of coffee drinks. Tea Zone, one of the addicting brand of bubble tea milk drinks nowadays is a type of snack drink that I got myself into for the past months. Again, something that I want to share with you guys. Well I bet you know how inexpensive and delicious the available flavors are particularly those who won in my blog giveaway two months ago. It was just the other day I was with Belle to pick-up 10 very refreshing drinks from Tea Zone's branch in SM North. It is actually the most accessible branch from where we live. 

Tea Zone Special Tea Drinks
So why did I say it is affordable? Because currently Tea Zone has successfully introduced a marketing strategy that you rarely see in other tea drinks carts- a thing called Buy 1 Take 1. And the good news is that they are doing this for lifetime I guess; making them the cheapest yet yummy special tea drinks you can ever encounter. For as low as PhP32 you can happily have two medium Tea Zone drinks. How's that for a refreshing  in-between snack?

Thursday, August 23, 2012

KANZHU Hand-Pulled Noodles

KANZHU Hand-Pulled Noodles
Out of the blue,  Ghela, her sister and I dined here after a very very long and tedious day at work. I was so craving for a real Chinese fix that day but I kept mum about it  and good thing we landed here. It was kind of comforting to have a wide array of Chinese restaurants here in San Juan City that whenever I needed some of my warm noodle and siopao cravings I can easily give a pleasant answer to it. We were first timers at this place which made us all the more excited but problem is since this is an unplanned dining out I  was not able to bring with me my camera to produce good quality food shots. Hence, pardon me for the lack of better images folks, just used my iPad 2 to be able to have something to share with you foodies. I think can still remember that this place was the second to the last restaurant that my friend, her younger sister and I went last April before she leaves for Canada, a memory which forever stays in my heart.

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

8 SPICES Home of the Authentic Thai Cuisine in Quezon City

8 SPICES Home of the Authentic Thai Cuisine in Quezon City
8 Spices Thai Cuisine & Grill facade.
I first encountered 8 Spices Thai Cuisine & Grill at their branch in Robinson's Galleria Veranda area last year.  Since I am a frequent mall goer I regularly pass by their restaurant which is near Giligan's and Starbucks.  Thai cuisine is one of the Asian cuisines that I always love to explore because they have one of the most flavorful, fragrant and intricate dishes that are no doubt appeateasing. This is so far one of the most memorable experience I had with OpenRice Philippines in terms of reviewing a Thai cuisine.  

Diagonally opposite Puregold Jr. on Mother Ignacia Ave, you can easily find this restaurant which has been a constant venue of press conference and a family place as well. 8 Spices Thai Cuisine & Grill boasts not just their variety of Thai and Asian fusion dishes but also the accessibility of the place and number of conference room as well. 

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Nasi Lemak Authentic Singaporean Restaurant in Robinson's Galleria


Nasi Lemak Authentic Singaporean Restaurant in Robinson's Galleria
Hey pals, I have never been to Singapore but I would insanely love to share with you now one of the Singaporean restaurant that I regularly visit in Ortigas area. Visiting this is like eating at any of the hole-in-the-wall types of resto in the fine country of Singapore.  Most of the people I met who tried this humble place that ideally represents Singaporean cuisine pointed out that this Singaporean-inspired restaurant offers one of the most authentic dishes which are rather diverse because of the mixture of foreign influencers like Malay, Chinese, Indian and Indonesian. Nasi Lemak Singaporean Restaurant is the name . Honest to goodness from what I have learned in one of my subjects in college, Nasi Lemak is a Malay word which literally means "fatty rice". A platter is composed of cucumber, small dried anchovies, roasted peanuts, kangkong, hard boiled egg and hot spicy sauce. One of the foreign dishes that I learned to love because of my Filipino-Chinese best friend. 

Though I've dined here for several times already it is only now that I'm going to feature this place in my blog. Other personal dining experiences to follow but this one I am writing is the most recent one, actually happened about three weeks ago. 
 
Nasi Lemak Authentic Singaporean Restaurant in Robinson's Galleria

Jamba Juice in Bonfacio High Street Central

Jamba Juice at Bonfacio High Street Central
I cannot really tell how many times my beau and I killed our precious time together at this outlet of Jamba Juice in Bonifacio Highstreet. The last time we went here was after I attended an event  for Josiah's Catering TastePRO BRAND DEGUSTATION. It is located across R.O.X He waited for me at this wholesome place wherein I arrived about an hour late of our agreed time. Ooopsie. Not to lose his cool I footed the bill and tried to be as apologetic as possible because I hinted his weak smile several times but then eventually everything went perfectly okay.
Jamba Juice at Bonfacio High Street Central Whenever I see this swirl logo I always equate it with pure healthy juice.

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Krispy Kreme in Mall of Asia


Krispy Kreme at Mall of Asia
This is yet another extremely sweet snacking experience at Krispy Kreme with some of my blogger friends at their branch inside the biggest mall in Asia :) It was  raining cats and dogs outside when we decided to enter this popular doughnuts and coffee store, a conducive place where we could chat while waiting for the start of the controversial Yahoo! OMG! Awards 2012 last month. Yes KK had been our resting place for a while as we savor the goodness of their nicely concocted doughnuts which will leave you wanting more. The following were responsible to appease our hunger for a real deal snack.

SECRET RECIPE Fresh Cream Cakes


SECRET RECIPE Fresh Cream Cakes
I am a cake addict since I learned how to bake during my high school years, a lesson in my teen years that I learned to appreciate and continuously love and a talent that I need to sharpen.  As a matter of fact I regularly bake then as a form of hobby and outlet. At times I peddle some of my bake goodies as a source of income which most of my friends and relatives approve, but this happiness was curtailed since I entered the corporate world. Ever since my career becomes the center of my attention I rarely bake and that started my love for ordering cake/s at the end of my meal or food trips whether I'm alone or with the company of close friends. I know I need not to further introduce Secret Recipe's Cream Cakes as they easily become the crowd's  favorite for the past years knowing that this is not just a restaurant but a cafe selling excellent variety of cakes. I bet you had a slice already among their 15 delectable flavors. Oh boy I recently had a bite at six of them and it was super fantastic sharing them with colleagues.
SECRET RECIPE Fresh Cream Cakes
SECRET RECIPE Fresh Cream Cakes
Dining area of Secret Recipe's SM Megamall-Atrium branch :) What a cozy way to spend some sugar rush after a busy day at work. An episode that is worth trying for. So should I spill the beans already? Currently, Secret Recipe sells their cream cakes at only PhP90 per slice and PhP900 for a whole cream cake. Is that reasonable enough for you? I'll let you be the judge. 

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

A Brief Experience at PARIS DELICE


A day before my birthday my friend Eugene brought me here. It was such an unexpected plan after attending a food event at a pizza restaurant along Jupiter Street corner Makati Avenue that evening. We went to Paris Delice still very very full but then we still decided to check out the place since this naturally foodie friend of mine knew that I have never been to this restaurant before and I was kinda itching to visit it. Little did I know that this French-inspired fast food restaurant is just right under my nose as it is located just meters away from where we spent most of our dinner time. I learned that all bread and pastries are imported from Paris, while vegetables and dairy are sourced from local organic farms. Imagine how they produce their wide array of breads and pastries. Well the truth is, like some of the French-inspired bakeries that I know here in the Philippines, Paris Delice prepared their products fresh on a daily basis. No wonder they sell their unsold or remaining breads from the counter area for half the price. Lucky are the two of us who chanced upon the bread sale though there were only few pieces displayed. 

Counter Area
This is a self-service type of restaurant therefore you need not expect to just sit and wait for a waiter or guest relations officer to approach your table and take your orders. Once you have decided what to order, proceed immediately to the counter area to process what you want. Paris Delice committed to offering only the freshest and healthiest food and beverage. Their menu is comprise of different selections ranging from sandwiches, fresh salads with breads, french bread/pastries, pastas, hot dishes and soups to desserts and hot drinks/coffee.

CCA Podium. Culinary School. Market Café.


CCA Podium. Culinary School. Market Café.
was here last month to attend a mini-event or should I say an orientation about a fast growing online loan and money management company nowadays. I am well aware that this place is not just a culinary school but also a market store, restaurant and events place where best food, best service and best environment can be found. Hence the name CCA Podium. Culinary School. Market Café. I pass by this cafe once in a while whenever I drop by the hippiest and not so crowded mall on the other side of Ortigas known as The Podium. I happen to know this place better when I entered one of their three function rooms at the far side of the restaurant one lazy Saturday afternoon and in a short while tasted some of their snack offerings. 

CCA Podium. Culinary School. Market Café.
Since I do not know the exact title of an array of dishes served and presented before us on a long table at the back part of the meeting room, I tried searching online for the possibility of getting their correct names. Unfortunately, I found not a single menu of the said place simply because there is really no set menu. Correct me if I am wrong but my research proved me that no menu is available online perhaps because each celebration needs a customized set of dishes and that CCA does not entirely publicize it. I'll tell you in a bit what me and my fellow participants had that day, at least describe them if not totally share with you the complete names of snack items.

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Serenitea Moment at Resorts World



Serenitea at Resorts World
Right after watching DRUM TAO at The Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resorts World Manila and spending some quality time with some of my new found co-bloggers at the nearby McDonald's outlet, we decided to cap the night with some tea. Where else but to the adjacent shop called Serenitea. That night I proved that these people are in the same way as wanderlust as I am. The treat was shouldered by my friend Nessie whom I met couple of months ago in a food event and now I consider a dear friend. She kept on giggling by the fact that this rare moment is her way of treating us for her upcoming birthday in August. Such a generous woman. Past 11 PM and yes we experienced sweet pleasure and real serene ambiance. Well actually this is one of my favorite branches of Serenitea because of its huge space and impeccable atmosphere. Light green and white blended very well. So well that you'll keep a sane and peaceful thoughts all throughout your stay.. I wonder how the psychology of color reacts to this environment. 
Serenitea at Resorts World
These white tall back chair with green pillows are so sexy to sit on. 

GREENWICH Pizza and Pasta Snacks


GREENWICH Pizza and Pasta Snacks
Dining area/Counter area
It was past nine in the evening when my fave gastronomic buddy and I went to this local pizza chain for a good snack. Again, this is another thing that we like about ourselves - eating out in an ordinary way  making it as extraordinary as possible. We were nearly caught by a heavy downpour, thanks to this store which is still open even late at night on a Sunday. Given that most offices are closed and very unlikely to be in operation on a weekend. 

In no time I have produced my Happy Plus Card and lend it to him for reloading and happy plus points but unfortunately the crew told us that their system is not operating well, hence we can't use the card and avail certain points. That would instantly mean that we have to pay in cash for our most sought after last meal of the day - pizza and pasta!   
GREENWICH Pizza and Pasta Snacks

Pending #18.  While waiting for our orders, he decided to take a pee outside Greenwich store using the comfort room of Raffles building since the store is not equipped with toilet room and I busily tried if there is any wifi connection but to my dismay nothing is available. I was distracted by Greenwich newest dessert line - Frozen Dessert Cups. My stomach churns at the sight of these luscious sweet enders.

OUTBACK Steakhouse

Outback Steakhouse Libis
Outback Steakhouse Libis
When was the last time I tasted OUTBACK Steakhouse? Uhmmmm...I can't exactly place when but it was about five years ago in their Makati outlet. Their unpretentious food, from quality ingredients to preparation and serving is something that makes me crave for them even up to now. It was just two weeks ago since my eyes laid on their freshest food and naturally my stomach reacted in a violent way. I was attentively listening to a guy speaker that time for a simple gathering of a telecommunications company offering inexpensive way to manage your business by means of high-tech gadgets to-die-for, when this steakhouse started offering its guests the following... 
Outback Steakhouse Libis
Something to keep in mind so that you are on a right time when you visit this place one day. I'm sure you do not want to walk away with not-so-fulfilled meal and partly empty stomach, so better check these dining hours. 
Outback Steakhouse Libis
This is all I wanted, something fresh from the oven and very hearty to eat. A simple bread could instantly make my day. I nibbled and nibbled not realizing that I can consume this demi-baguette multigrain bread. Oh how I love its bland taste with a pat of margarine. This is better with soup. 

Figaro Coffee Company's Cakes


Figaro Coffee Company UP Ayala Technohub

Figaro Coffee Company UP Ayala Technohub
 One rainy Friday morning at Figaro, UP Ayala Techno Hub.
This post is actually the continuation of me and my dear foodie friends Figaro Breakfast Samplers moment. A sweet continuation at that because right after consuming the wide array of plates we had for brunch, we were given a few beautiful and and drool-forming cakes to binge. Oh noh! As a self-confessed desserts addict I n can't just turn down and walk away from this sweet invitation from the team of Figaro branch in UP Ayala Techno Hub. As the saying goes, when you are STRESSED have some DESSERTS :) And that is what we did. We complied very easily. Now, sharing you here these mini cakes from our very own local coffee shop., none other than FIGARO. 

Figaro Coffee Company UP Ayala Technohub
Aren't they gorgeous enough to salivate you?

Ballet Philippines presents ANTING

         

Ballet Philippines presents ANTING

On September 14 to 16, 2012, Ballet Philippines performs its second season offering, Neo-Filipino: Anting.

Anting brings to life pre-eminent dramatist Tony Perez’s libretto that explores the world of talismans and amulets of Filipino magical traditions. It is made up for four separate movements, each depicting a specific kind of amulet and its powers.

Each movement is interpreted through dance by noted Filipino choreographers: BP artistic director Paul Alexander Morales, BP associate artistic director Christine Crame, BP alumnus and E-Dance Theatre artistic director Gerald Mercado, and Airdance artistic director Ava Villanueva-Ong. They will work with the music of noted musicians Jed Balsamo, Jerrold Tarod, Teresa Barrozo and Israel Rodriguez.

Sunday, August 05, 2012

Marry Me at Marriott: A Grand Wedding Fair


Marriott Manila
Photo courtesy of Marriott Manila
They say that the best things in life are worth sharing which is also very true with weddings. No fairy tale wedding ever made possible by going solo—it’s a milestone by two people achieved by equally passionate individuals. After all, it’s something that never comes easy.

That’s why at Marriott, they understand that every wedding deserves all the attention and hard work. And to pay tribute to the brand’s long standing commitment in making every dream wedding happen, Marriott Manila is organizing its first and upscale wedding fair event of the country, Marry Me at Marriott: A Grand Wedding Fair. Happening on August 25 to 26 at the Grand Ballroom, this two-day event is also made possible by Jaguar, Bobbi Brown, Rustan’s the Beauty Source, Rustan’s Weddings and Beyond, Lab Series, and Megaworld.

While it’s true that all hotels sell the same packages and amenities, the hotel banks on its team of Certified Wedding Planners who were trained to institute a consistent and structured process for countless weddings. And couples can expect too that the planners can anticipate cultural traditions and possible requests from couples with different backgrounds and perspective, making countless weddings personalized and seamless.

“For this very first bridal fair, Marriott Manila aims to assist our valued soon-to-wed clients through this one stop shop event for all their wedding needs, relieving them from the heavy load of wedding planning. Another service specialty of the Marriott brand, weddings and celebrations is one of the most exciting events that we always want to be part in the lives of our clients. Our aim is to simply make this event personal and a moment that any couple can call their own”, says Marriott Manila sales and marketing director Cristy Carreon.

Since this gathering is also partnered with JP Montilla of Complete Works, a trusted name both for corporate and social events organizing, everyone can be assured that this bridal fair offers an enjoyable experience for the couples. Investing on a stunning concept, creative minds, and stylish suppliers, this exhibit boasts fresh yet professional wedding ideas.

Claiming the distinction as one of the rising most preferred hotel venues for wedding, Marriott’s certified wedding planners definitely understand that this event is meant to be enjoyed from day one. What else could be more memorable other than building your new life together with a heartfelt reception that you and your loved ones will treasure forever? Yes, this bridal event aims to create deeper bonding and enhance meaningful relationships with family and friends!

Saturday, August 04, 2012

JIV Manila Artists at the GSIS Museum this August


JIV Manila Artists at the GSIS Museum this August
Visual artists Alain Austria, Crown Dolot and Juno Parungao come together in a group exhibit entitled INSIGHT: soliloquies in three. The exhibit features around 30 paintings and drawings in medium to large scale, in an ensemble of media from watercolor to acrylic, pen & ink and found objects. 

All come from years of commitment to a certain belief and all having the heart of an educator, Austria, Dolot and Parungao are the kind who seek to arrest ideas, unwilling to be passive participants of a single paradigm. They wear different hats as nurturers, believers, followers, teachers, advocates, cultural workers; conscientiously, their works of art signal the time they maximize to reflect on instances, outcomes and challenges of their different roles. In reflections, one painting at a time, they form meanings they attach to specific points of life. 

What: INSIGHT: soliloquies in three

When: August 8-31, 2012 at 6:00 PM

Where: GSIS Museum

My SerendipiTea Giveaway WINNERS


My SerendipiTea Giveaway WINNERS

Let's clink glasses teaholics! Announcing you here the winners of My SerendipiTea GiveawayThe moment you've been waiting for is here!  As promised there will be five winners who will each win  MySerendipiTea gift certificate worth PhP100. Here they are: 


My SerendipiTea Giveaway WINNERS

Friday, August 03, 2012

The Kitchen of Cakes and Coffee


The Kitchen of Cakes and Coffee
It was an unplanned dessert experience with Eugene and Isabelle one night at Tomas Morato, Quezon City. The three of us came from a pizza-bingeing experience at a nearby restaurant when all of a sudden this hefty foodie friend of mine offered an invitation to answer his sweet tooth craving. Fortunately, the three of us were on the same boat. Minutes later we found ourselves crossing the streets of busy Tomas Morato area and entered  a hole-in-a-wall cakes and coffee shop which is open util wee hours. Honestly, it was our first time at the said branch though I've sampled some of their products last year at their branch in SM North Edsa. But I like this outlet in better because of its spacious dining area and wide array of cakes and pastries that aim to please you even late at night.
The Kitchen of Cakes and Coffee Tomas, Morato
This shop has a lot to offer. Would you mind to scan through the sturdy menu board? They are not only about cakes and coffee for they offer yogurts, gourmet coffee, breads and pastries too. Definitely a lot to choose from and hey pretty easy on the pocket too!
The Kitchen of Cakes and Coffee Tomas, Morato
Cozy and chillaxing ambiance with ultra fast WiFi connection.  More seats upstairs which I shall be experiencing soon should I need respite in the coming days.

Wednesday, August 01, 2012

Juno Parungao’s Art, Astrology and Crystology in Art-360 at Fully Booked Boni High


Juno Parungao’s Art, Astrology and Crystology in Art-360 at Fully Booked Boni High

Juno Parungao is a psychologist, astrologer, crystologist, educator, scholar, painter, and a lover of colors and scents. Juno has been known for her astrological portraits, portal paintings and after-crystal paintings seen in various galleries in the metro since 2008. As an educator, Juno has taught humanities, psychology, communication and research in academic institutions such as the University of the Philippines, La Consolacion College, De La Salle University and Mint College. She is currently a full-time visual artist, consultant and a candidate for a doctorate degree in education psychology.

The maiden event for JIV Manila Art Group’s ART-360 features her who will facilitate a three-part seminar- workshop in art, astrology and crystology. Her talk will be complemented by a lecture on Art Appreciation and basic painting workshop by members of JIV Manila Art and teachers of Young Artists’ Studio. As a token to participants, free tarot-reading sessions follow afterwards.

Chef Laudico's Modern Filipino Menu



A few weeks back I attended an event for the launching of the newest lifestyle TV show transpired in Twin Oaks Place, Mandaluyong. The said show just aired yesterday on 2nd Avenue. People from the press and bloggers like me were treated to a lunch which was organized in a way that it is a sit-down type of meal. I happen to know due to a small piece of paper beside my napkin table cloth  that what we are about to  indulge are Chef Laudico's creative and modern Filipino dishes. Well this man never ceases to impress me with his style and dish presentation that I want to meet him in person, someday maybe. I can still recall the time to have a job interview with him or his wife some years back but was curtailed because I already find a suitable work for me that time. Just wanna share you one of the truly modern way to serve Filipino items. I noticed that Chaf Laudico's catering business is very marketable because I've encountered it several times already. Well his invention and artistic talent when it comes to our cuisine is truly remarkable; the same is true with his wife.  Let me then show you his menu that we gratefully chew and swallow one afternoon: 

Chef Laudico Modern Filipino Menu
This one is unfortunately not included on the list :( I don't know why. But just to give you a glimpse, it an appetizer, a chicken dish oozing with flavors because of herbs and spices with equally good chicken sauce that makes it so palatable even in just a small portion size.
Chef Laudico Modern Filipino Menu
Creamy Shitake Adobo Puree
Creamy soup with a bitter after taste.