HAPPINESS IS A GLASS OF ALASKA MILK!

         When I was a kid, I always said that when I have a child, I would be the “cool dad”. Being a Picky Eater, my 8 year old self told my mom when she tried to convince me to finish my milk before allowing me to have dessert, “When I have kids, I’ll let them eat and drink anything they want!”. 

        Fast forward more than 30 years later, and I discovered raising a daughter is really no joke. You realize the importance of nutrition in your child’s diet, and how critical it is to her growing up. It’s a good thing Rain, unlike her picky daddy, is a fan of Alaska Powdered Milk drink, and with it’s Lakas Nutribuilders, I know she’s getting healthy benefits with every glass!  

TOKYO TOKYO'S NEWEST HIT: UMAMI PORK RIBS!

Through the years, Tokyo Tokyo has taken serious steps to set itself apart from its fast food contemporaries, by constantly evolving its menu to include classic Japanese dishes, as well as favorites from the orient wiht innovative, modern twists.

     I’ve enjoyed their Beef Festivals, Their Ramen offerings, and their Karaage Entrees, but I couldn’t help but be excited at the thought of Tokyo Tokyo creating a new Pork Ribs dish, for us meat lovers… The Umami Pork Ribs!     

MERANTI HOTEL'S SPECIAL CHRISTMAS SET MEAL!

       I think I've made it clear in a previous post how absolutely relaxing my stay at Meranti Hotel was. I lived in my Grandfather's in the Scout Area for a few years during my college days, so this actually gave me a new perspective to a familiar neighborhood. We spent many Christmas celebrations there, so I felt right at home when Meranti invited us over to feast on their upcoming Christmas Set meals that will be served this Holiday Season at the hotel's flagship cafe, Maple at Meranti!

        Here's a peek at the delicious spread we enjoyed!   

A YULETIDE FESTIVAL AT F1 HOTEL MANILA

       I believe I've been going to F1 Hotel frequently for the three years, and I've seen some pretty amazing Chefs from around the country take the reins in their kitchen. Each time I've visited, I can safely say that I've always been impressed with the various dishes that I've tried.  

      With all due respect to the previous Chefs who undoubtedly did an excellent job, I can safely say the current line up of Chefs of F1 Hotel, led by Executive Chef Decker Giocko is by far my favorite. Even during his days at Cake Club, I've seen Chef Decker as a kindred spirit.. in leyman's terms, "ka-vibes ko siya" especially when it comes to our taste in food. 

    With 2016 coming to a close, I was invited to F1 Hotel once again to try out their Holiday spread, and I was blown away by the various entrees that Chef Decker and his team whipped up as part of their Christmas and New Year Buffet... and I was not about to say no to that!

FREEZER BURN'S SPECIAL CHRISTMAS FLAVORS!

   

            With the Yuletide season upon us, Rockstar Chef, Miko Aspiras uses this time to get his creative juices flowing in his highly successful Ice Cream Parlor, Freezer Burn. Looking to innovate more flavors, Chef Miko developed a Christmas themed composed Ice Cream line that would make Santa himself want to stop over in the middle of delivering gifts, just for a scoop! 

MIGHTY QUINN'S SLOW SMOKED BARBEQUE LANDS IN MANILA!

             From New York to Dubai, and now in Manila, Mighty Quinn's Slow Cooked Barbeque is set to take Manila By Storm! I was lucky enough to get a chance to be among the select few to get a taste of their slow roasted, mouth watering Barbeque before their opened their doors in Manila! 

A SOUTHERN STAYCATION AT SOMERSET ALABANG

        I'm always excited when I get a chance to visit the South, especially Alabang, If only traffic permitted, I'm pretty sure I'd be there more often, checking out the amazing restaurants and hotels in the area. I've been to a few hotels in Alabang, and I've always left impressed with the state of the art facilities, luxurious accommodations and world class service.  

     I was ecstatic when my family and I got opportunity to stay at one of the newest names in serviced apartments down South, Somerset Alabang Manila.

WIN A LEGENDARY STEAK DINNER FOR TWO AT TEXAS ROADHOUSE!

FYI This is NOT the picture you need to repost

             Dude, I feel you, man. You want to take your loved one out for a nice dinner, perhaps impress him or her with an evening of Steaks, and made from scratch sides. Sounds simple enough, right? However,  the Yuletide season is coming up, and you've still got loads of bills to pay, Christmas Gifts to buy and all that, so you think to yourself, "Maybe I'll just wait till AFTER the holidays!".

        Well guess what? This could be your chance to win an AMAZING Steak Dinner for two, absolutely free!

       The Pickiest Eater in The World (Me) and Texas Roadhouse has got your back!

FATBURGER FINALLY OPENS IN GLORIETTA 2!

           The year was 1997, and the place was Las Vegas. My brother and I chipped in part of our vacation money to take our dad out on a limo ride around the City of Lights for his birthday. My Godmother was a travel agent so we got a great deal on our limo ride, but since we had splurged on the wheels, it meant dinner would have to be sacrificed. 

           Our Limo Driver picked us up at the MGM Grand promptly at 6:45pm, and I noticed my dad, despite being in an incredibly luxurious limo, seemed a tad crabby. My dad is notorious for getting grumpy when his tummy grumbles so it clicked to my brother that if he was going to fully enjoy this limo ride, he would need to get some food in his stomach. 

        I told my Ninang about the situation, so she casually asked the Limo driver where was a quick but delicious place to grab something to eat before we went on our tour around Las Vegas (we weren't allowed to eat inside the car). The driver suggested his favorite burger spot which was conveniently located three minutes away, just along the Las Vegas Strip. And he even told my aunt that since he hadn't had dinner yet, if we bought him a burger, he'd only start the time AFTER we all had eaten.. A concession he was willing to make ONLY for a restaurant called, Fatburger. 

      That told me that this must be one awesome burger. After one bite of a Double Fatburger with Bacon and Egg, I just had to give that Limo Driver a high five. 

    19 years later, Fatburger, has become one of the emerging burger chains in the global scene, and has now finally opened a branch in Manila! 

AIR ASIA TELLS THE SUNNY SONNY STORY: #TravelGr8 Vacation Essentials!

             Air Asia has quickly emerged as Asia's leading name in budget airline travel. In the past couple of years that I've been traveling with Air Asia, one thing I've noticed with this airline is that they always find a way to go one step beyond their offered services to their passengers. For example, it wasn't enough for Air Asia to provide meals for their passengers, but they went the extra mile to develop a menu that ensures the food they serve are absolutely delicious.

        Their in-flight shopping catalog is no different. Not only are they constantly adding products that is useful to the traveler, but they recently added a product to their lineup that is meaningful not just to their passengers, but to the less fortunate as well. 

        Allow me to tell you all about Air Asia's new #TravelGr8 Vacation Essentials In Flight Catalog! 

         

IT'S A G'DAY FOR GREAT AUSSIE EATS AT OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE!

           I've never been to Australia, but the laid back vibe I get from Outback Steakhouse, where you're encouraged to kick back and relax over some awesome food, makes me feel like this is one country that I would love to visit (Ok fine, the hot babes has something to do with it as well).

           Recently, Outback Steakhouse Philippines launched a limited time offerings menu dubbed "The Great Aussie Eats", and it's nothing short of awesome! 

RAIN'S BIRTHDAY PART 3: SUNDAE FUN DAY AT MORELLI'S!

             The day after Rain's birthday, Rina and I decided to continue her simple celebration by taking her out for Ice Cream at one of her favorite Gelato places, Morelli's Gelato Caffe at Shangrila Plaza Mall. Though we usually pass by for a scoop whenever we're at the mall, this is the first time I realized that Morelli's also has some incredible Sundaes as well!

RAIN'S BIRTHDAY PART 2: LUNCH AT FAB, THE RESTAURANT!

          On the day of Rain's birthday, Rina and I picked up our little princess after school, and headed straight to Holiday Inn Galleria Manila for a delicious family lunch. Rain had a long standing invitation from our friends at Holiday Inn to try their food there, so we thought this would be the perfect time to visit.

       In case you think you misread that, you didn't. RAIN is the one with an invite, and Rina and I were her "Plus Twos". 

RAIN'S BIRTHDAY PART 1: A FAIRMONT MAKATI STAYCATION

          I've been to Fairmont Hotel's Spectrum quite a number of times in the past, and I can safely say it's one of the best hotel buffets in Metro Manila. They constantly think of themes to keep their guests on their toes, and the kitchen staff  from the entrees to the pastries, always rise to the challenge in coming up with ideas to match the selected motif. 

      Though I consider myself I fan of the hotel's food and service, I had yet to see their accommodations, Of course, this is the prestigious Fairmont name we were talking about, so I had a pretty good idea that it was nothing short of amazing, but it's really different when you see it for yourself. 

      So the weekend before Rain's Birthday. we were invited to experience a Staycation at Fairmont Hotel, which was perfect treat for my little girl in anticipation for her big day!  

NEW CHOCO MUCHO COOKIE SANDWICHES!

            For decades, Rebisco has been the leading name in innovating biscuits in other snack foods. After creating so many beloved favorites, they decided to go back to the basics and create a Chocolate Cookie Sandwich that has shaken up the competition. 

  

         Named after their popular line Chocolate Wafer Bars, Rebisco has introduced the new Choco Mucho Cookie Sandwich!  

GRIND BISTRO: YOUR DAILY GRIND AT BGC!

The Big Burger and The Little Burger

        I've always been more of a "No Frills" kind of guy when it comes to food. I don't need fancy plating or overly expensive ingredients to make me happy. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy some of the finer things every now and then, but it's honestly more on the simple comfort food that gets my tummy going. 

       What I enjoyed about Grind Bistro, was how it took classic pub favorites, given dynamic twists, without going all frou frou. It was classic, comfort food, executed with finesse and precision. 

          Exactly the kind of restaurant that I would love going back to again and again. 

HEY HANDSOME: YOU TALKIN' TO ME?

        I've had the fortunate opportunity to go to Malaysia twice this year, and I must say I absolutely fell in love with the country that I regrettably overlooked throughout my entire existence. More than just a food paradise, the warmth of Malaysia's people, the splendor of it's natural beauty, and the disciplined demeanor of the community, left me spellbound. 

      But yes, the food was truly outstanding. Their rich culture allowed for a plethora of influences from around the world, leaving me to wonder what else from Asian Cuisine have I been missing out on due to my stubborn pickiness? 

     I might not be able to go on a Food tour of Asia anytime soon, however the latest collaboration of renowned Chef Nicco Santos and the Tasteless Group, "Hey Handsome", helped me take a mini tour of Asian Flavors, one plate at a time. 

HYATT CITY OF DREAMS MANILA: IN A HYATT WORLD

           The City of Dreams Complex had their grand opening in February of 2015, which took the leisure gaming and entertainment tourism scene to a whole new level. I've been around the complex a few times since then, visiting Dreamscape with my family, and having lunch at The Cafe at Hyatt Hotel a few times, and I can say the food was undoubtedly world class, and I was left spellbound with the dazzling interiors and exquisite service.

         So we already knew that their food and banquet was excellent, however it was only a few weeks ago that Rina, Rain and I were invited to enjoy a wonderful weekend at Hyatt City of Dreams, to get a taste of the world renowned service that has made Hyatt such a prestigious name in hospitality. 

     This is our experience In A Hyatt World.

MAIN STREET: THE MAIN ATTRACTION AT KAPITOLYO

No, i'm not wearing a hair clip, smartass.

 (I only wear them at night)

             I don't think I've ever made a secret of my heavily Western influenced palate. People call me Picky, but I've always seen myself as more of a "Simple" kind of guy. A plate of Burgers and Fries make me happier than Foie Gras or Escargot ever could.

    This is one of the reasons why I enjoyed Main Street at Tuscany at Mckinley Hill so much. It has got that simple comfort food that I look for, but executed in a manner that makes it clear that this isn't something you can just throw together with stuff in your fridge. And yet yet there is something familiar about it, that makes you feel right at home. 

     After three years of taking Tuscany at Mckinley by storm, Main Street expanded further out into the metropolis, by opening a branch at Kapitolyo, Pasig. 

    And the good news? IT'S NEARER TO ME!!

TOKYO TOKYO'S NEW MAKIRRITO

        The Country’s number one Japanese Fast Food Chain has done it again, coming up with new dishes that caters to your needs! If you’re a fan of Tokyo Tokyo, I’m sure you’ve tried some of their classics, such as their Beef Misono, Shrimp Tempura, and Chicken Teriyaki. Recently, they have even expanded their menu to include Ramen and Donburi bowls. Admittedly, these are meals that are best enjoyed in a sit down environment, so you can fully appreciate the elements of the Bento Meals or whatever it was that you ordered.

        But what happens during situations when you’re on the go, and don’t have the luxury of time on your hands to stop and eat? With the way the rat race works nowadays, that’s not exactly out of the realm of possibility from happening. What if you need something as handy as - say, a Burrito, but as filling as a rice meal?

     Tokyo Tokyo has got you covered, with the newest addition to their menu.. The Makirrito!

            Tokyo Tokyo has taken two iconic dishes of two popular cuisines, and fused them harmoniously into an original concept that can be enjoyed even when on the move! The concept of a Japanese “Maki”, meaning choice Japanese ingredients wrapped in sushi rice then rolled into Nori, is amped up and given the Mexican Burrito treatment. The result? A chunky, meat and filled seaweed wrap, that is not only big on flavor, but is incredibly satisfying as well, and can easily be enjoyed in transit!

           The Makirrito comes in two variants, and the first one I tried was the California Tempura Makirrito. Plump Crabsticks are dipped in a Tokyo Tokyo’s Signature Tempura Batter, and deep fried to a gorgeous crisp. The Sticks are sliced, then rolled into sushi rice with chopped carrots, Shredded Cabbage, and mango slices, that give the roll an added freshness. The ingredients are doused in a Japanese sauce that plays off the creaminess of the Japanese mayonnaise, then tightly wrapped in Nori. 

         I’m a sucker for Tokyo Tokyo’s Chicken Karaage, so I don’t think anyone would be surprised if I said that I was drawn more to the Samurai Karaage Makirrito. I hope my form made Himura Kenshin proud!

     The Samurai Makirrito is made with Crunchy pieces of juicy Chicken Karaage, rolled into the Seaweed Wrap, together with the medley of vegetables, and drizzled with the Japanese Sauce and Mayonnaise. The added savoriness of the chicken made this more filling and enjoyable for me, although Rina liked the California more. 

    It’s easy to eat, and if you like Nori, you’ll find it incredibly tasty and filling.. And at P100, The Makirrito is unbelievably affordable! Tokyo Tokyo once again proves that their customer needs always comes first!

BROOKLYN'S NEW YORK PIZZA: A NEW NAME IN PIZZA!

          When I first moved to Manila after years of living in Cebu, I stayed at my Grandfather's place, located in the Scout Area in Quezon City. Although the Tomas Morato area had a lot of the classic restaurants that are still there today, the choices weren't as eclectic as the current crop of food establishments that have sprouted in the area. 

      One such place that has sprung out of nowhere, is Brooklyn's New York Pizza. Despite the Western name, Brooklyn's is much more than an American inspired Pizza joint. The menu is filled with items from the United States, but it also leaves room for a bit of homegrown favorites and innovations! 

THE SM SUPERMALLS VIBER STICKER PACK IS WHERE IT'S AT!

Living in the digital age has made communication with one another so much easier. After thinking that cellular phones couldn’t bring people any closer together than text messaging ever has, here comes a slew of Messaging apps that that makes getting in touch with someone so simple, but so fun at the same time.

Undoubtedly, the number one App on the market today is Viber, and is the communication app of choice between Rina and I. A few weeks ago, my wife was fiddling through the sticker store, and saw a pack that was available for free download, namely the SM Sticker Pak! Garnern! She thought it was hilarious, and asked me to download it as well.

Rina was recently up for promotion in her new work, and has been working her heart out to get it. On the day that she found out she was finally going to be getting the promotion, I decided to take her out for a simple, yet fun day at SM Aura, to have lunch at one of her favorite restaurants, and to do a little bit of shopping as well!

      Not only is the Sticker Pack fun to use in your conversations, but downloading it gives you a chance to avail of discounts at SM Supermalls as well! Beginning August 15 until October 15, 2016, simply show that you have downloaded the SM sticker pack, and you’re eligible of a 10% discount on all regular priced items with minimum spend of 1,500! 

       Not bad savings by just downloading something into your phone! You can also get a chance to win shirts from the new SM x Viber Tee Collection by following SM Supermalls on Viber Public Chat!

       So be part of #TheSMSquad by joining the SM Public chat on Viber! If you want to be the first to find out about promos, sales, and upcoming events from your favorite SM Supermall, #SMonViber is where it’s at! 

     If you want to Download and use the SM Viber sticker pack, just head on to this link: http://www.viber.com/stickers/smsupermalls_ph 

DENNY'S FINALLY OPENS IN THE PHILIPPINES!

         I know I say I'm a Picky Eater, but I actually maintain the fact that I'm more of a "Simple Eater". I'm ok not dining on highfalutin dishes, but give me a delicious burger and fries, and I'm good to go.  During my visit to the United States, one of our "go to" places before heading home after a long day, was Denny's.

          Since it's open 24 hours, and has a nice selection of American favorites, my family and I were pretty much solved. A restaurant serving Burgers, Pancakes, Breakfast food, Skillets and other Diner classics, was like heaven for me.

          Denny's has been one of the restaurant chains that I have been hoping would open in the Philippines for quite some time now, and it was in the year of 2016 that I finally got my wish! 

         October 7, 2016 marks the day Denny's officially opens its first branch in the Philippines!

B HOTEL QUEZON CITY: A HOTEL ON THE RISE

Well I'll B...

         It was very heartwarming to get a message from a representative from B Hotel, inviting me to their gorgeous hotel. They had intended to invite me months earlier when they opened, however, "unforeseen forces" prevented that from happening, 

      Nonetheless, I've always been a believer in good things happening to good people at the right time, so I was grateful when the awesome people of B Hotel reached out to me, asking if I would be interested in visiting their lovely Hotel, I was more than happy to oblige!

THE 13TH BITE: CHILI'S TAKES ON U.P. TOWN CENTER!

        For the 13th Bite, We're featuring one of the most popular international food chains that has opened their 9th Branch in the Philippines! Chili's has been known as the go to place for practically every celebration and we Pinoys can't seem to get enough of it!

THE AWESOME LOCK AND LOCK FEATHER LIGHT TUMBLER!

          I'm always eager to share with my readers about my experience with products that I truly believe in. One of those things that I was anxious to share with you, is my new Lock and Lock Feather Light Tumbler! It's handy, lightweight and so easy to use, it left me wondering how I got around for so long without it! 

MERANTI HOTEL: MAXIMUM RELAXATION

            When I moved to Manila from Cebu for college, I stayed in my grandfather's place in Quezon City for a few years. Our family house in Antipolo hadn't gone through its badly needed renovation, not to mention the daily drive and commute to Taft would have made my college life even more hellish than it was (did I ever mention how much I hate Math?). 

        The Scout Area dining scene in the late 90's is completely different from the food haven it is now. Although there are some iconic establishments that have survived the test of time, the  restaurant choices were rather limited, and don't get me started on Hotels in the area, because a decent one was non-existent. 

       So if you had told me that nearly 20 years ago I'd be spending a luxurious staycation in a gorgeous Boutique hotel just down the road from my Grandfather's house, I would have told you that you were insane. 

     But it is true. Meranti Hotel has emerged as an impressive option to stay in when looking for accommodations in Quezon City!

APPLEBEES PHILIPPINES: FANNING THE FLAME IN EASTWOOD CITY!

        One of the biggest restaurant Chains in the world has opened up their second branch in the Philippines, bringing yet a new dining option to the ever growing Eastwood City! Already one of the hottest dining spots in the country, the fun loving people of QC will be happy to know there's a new place in town where you can celebrate everything!

A NEW NAME IN STEAK AT B HOTEL QC: JOHNNY'S STEAK AND GRILL

             In case ya'll didn't notice, I love me some steak. More than that though, I love me some affordable steaks, Blog posts abour restaurants with quality, affordable steaks are usually among my favorite things to share with my readers. Which is why I was ecstatic to write about Johnny's Steak and Grill, located at the ground floor of the posh B Hotel in Quezon City!

CELEBRATING THE MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL AT CRYSTAL DRAGON, CROWN TOWERS MANILA

             I've never been much of a gambler, but City of Dreams Manila never ceases to amaze me whenever I drop by. Whether it was to dine at Hyatt or take the family to Dream Play, the whole spectacle of the complex always lives up to its name with every visit. I've had the pleasure of dining at The Cafe a few times, but I had yet to even set foot in the Crown Towers. let alone try any of their restaurants.

         Fortunately, when Crystal Dragon, Crown Tower's premium Cantonese restaurant, launched their Mid-Autumn Festival Menu, Little old me managed to score an invitation, making my first trip to Crown Towers a memorable one. 

A FAMILY NIGHT OUT WITH IHOP'S NEW DISHES!

Photos taken with a Huawei P9, equipped with a Leica Dual Camera

      Since we live in the same village, Rina and I usually invite my father in law and sister in law over for dinner, so Rain could spend more time with them. One weekend, Rina wanted to break the monotony of our usual fare, and suggested we have a nice family dinner out for a change. 

       Since Rain was going to be with us, I suggested IHOP, because our little baby/lady may not eat much, but something she does love is pancakes. A little research led us to discover that IHOP has new additions to its menu, so I thought this would be a great opportunity to try us many items as I could!     

GREAT STEAKS AT CHOPS CHICAGO STEAKHOUSE, SHANGRI-LA PLAZA

          I think I may have eaten more steak this year than any other time in my life. Not that I'm complaining, as everytime I go to a different steakhouse, there's always something about the place that makes it a whole new experience. I've been to Chops Chicago Steakhouse's Greenbelt Branch a few years back, but I had yet to visit the branch nearer to me, located at the East Wing of Shangri-la Mall. 

       One fine day, my blogger buddies and I paid a visit to Chops, to find out if their food, particularly their steaks, would do the windy city proud! 

SUNWAY HOTEL GEORGETOWN: THE PERFECT LOCATION IN PENANG

          A few months ago, I had the pleasure of flying to Penang in Malaysia for the first time, via Air Asia's Fly thru service that allowed me the luxury of only having to check in my baggage once, and not having to worry about it during my layover at Kuala Lumpur. The sights and attractions were phenomenal, and the food, as you'll see in an upcoming post, was nothing short of amazing. 

          However, another factor that made our stay in Penang even more enjoyable, was our hotel, Sunway Georgetown. Oftentimes, the choice of hotel is often overlooked. More often than not, you select your accomodations based on your budget, since you have the mindset that your hotel won't matter because you'll only be there to sleep anyway. 

     Sunway Georgetown, is different. I feel that my stay in this outstanding hotel played an integral part of my Penang experience, where I discovered the warmth and genuine accommodating nature of the Malaysian people. 

  

     Let me tell you why you should stay in Sunway Georgetown the next time you go to Penang..

HONG KONG DINING IN MANILA: XIU FINE CANTONESE DINING

         I'll be honest with you. I was a little sad when I saw that one of my favorite Chinese restaurants, Lugang, closed down their branch at Connecticut Ave. in San Juan. Sure there are other branches of Lugang conveniently located at malls around the metro, but the size of this branch, coupled with its convenient dedicated parking lot across the street, gave it a special place in my heart. 

       However, as it turned out, the HTCG Premium Food Concepts group, the brilliant minds behind Lugang, Tuan Tuan and  had something else in store for us with their latest "Baby", Xiu: Fine Cantonese Dining

RAGING BULL CHOPHOUSE AT THE FORT SHANGRI-LA IS A KNOCKOUT!

       It's only August, but I think this is the year in which I've eaten the most steaks in my entire life. Not that I'm complaining, of course, but this just proves that the steak dining scene is alive and well here in Metro Manila. The newest player is opening today, August 31, at Shangri-la Hotel, The Fort, and it looks set to change the game of steak as we know it. 

    Here's a little preview of what to expect at the sparkling new Raging Bull Chophouse. 

TOKYO TOKYO'S NEWEST PREMIUM DONBURI: TERIYAKI MEATBALLS DONBURI!

       With over 30 outlets in Metro Manila alone, it’s easy to find a Tokyo Tokyo Restaurant near you. This is perfect for people like me who sometimes gets cravings for Japanese inspired dishes that are very satisfying, but at prices that are friendly to your wallet. Tokyo Tokyo continues that tradition, with the newest member of their Premium Donburi line.. The Teriyaki Meatballs Donburi!