Category: Food & Drink

Legendary Chef Series: Journey through Thailand’s Flavors with Waldorf Astoria’s Chef Mink at Brasserie on 3

This June, Conrad Manila’s Brasserie on 3 brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand straight to your table in Manila! As part of their legendary Chef Series, Conrad Manila is proud to host the distinguished Chef Juthakorn “Mink” Suraraksa from the Waldorf Astoria Bangkok. Known for his extraordinary culinary talent, Chef Mink will be the first illustrious guest to grace this series.

From June 21 to June 30, 2023, immerse yourself in the exquisite taste of authentic Thai cuisine without leaving the comfort of Manila. Chef Mink’s meticulously crafted menu will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Thailand, right in the heart of Conrad Manila.

Savor the finest creations during the promotional period at an irresistible rate that provides unmatched value: Weekday Lunch Special Buffet is available for only PHP 1,799 nett (Monday to Friday). Regular rates apply for weekday dinner and weekend lunch and dinner services.

Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable culinary journey featuring Chef Mink’s signature dishes. Delight in the vibrant flavors of the Mixed Seafood Spicy Salad, savor the delightful crunch of the Prawn Cake, and indulge in the heavenly sweetness of the Mango Sticky Rice. Each bite will transport you to the bustling markets and fragrant kitchens of Thailand.

To complement your dining experience, Brasserie on 3 offers enticing add-ons. Choose the unlimited non-alcoholic beverages for PHP 480 nett or elevate your dining experience with the unlimited alcoholic beverages offer, including House White or Red wine, as well as Local Beer, for PHP 980 nett.

Escape to Thailand’s culinary paradise without the need to board a plane. Reserve your table now and experience the wonders of Thai cuisine at Conrad Manila‘s Brasserie on 3. For inquiries and reservations, please call (63 917) 650-3591 or (63 2) 8833-9999, or email MNLMB.FB@conradhotels.com. Don’t miss out on this chance to experience the best of Thailand’s culinary treasures in the heart of Manila.

June 8, 2023
Pampanga Chefs Dennis Lim and Judy Uson Partner with Rockwellist for Unprecedented Confection Flavors

As the Rockwell community at Nepo Center continues to establish its presence, the brand unveils its exciting new Pampanga Series Confections. Notable Pampanga-based chefs Dennis Lim of the acclaimed Denlim’s Kitchen, Judy Uson from the beloved local restaurant Cafe Noelle, and Christian Valdes of CMV Txokolat have joined forces to offer Rockwellists a mouthwatering immersion into the culinary capital’s unique flavors.

A Harmonious Culinary Symphony

Together, Lim and Uson harmonize local Pampangan food favorites with CMV’s luscious chocolate, resulting in a blend that is both soothing and delightful. Every chocolate bar they craft is an intriguing, sensational, and exquisite experience.

Shing-a-ling at Kasoy

Tangy and Crunchy Shing-a-ling

Imagine the snack-time favorite Shing-a-ling and the ever-present Kasoy mixed into a chocolate bar. The result is a tangy, crunchy, rich, and nutty taste sensation. This distinctive blend offers a textural contrast that will leave you reaching for another piece, much like your favorite bag of chips.

Pastillas de Calamansi

Tropical Treat: Pastillas de Calamansi

Next up is the Pastillas de Calamansi, a refreshing twist on the classic pastillas. The citrusy tones of calamansi are masterfully offset by the creamy sweetness of pastillas, offering a delight that truly embodies a tropical indulgence.

Champorado Bar

A Nostalgic Bite: Champorado Bar

For those yearning for a taste of childhood, Dennis Lim’s Champorado Bar is a must. By transforming the beloved champorado into a chocolate bar, Lim has created a treat packed with rich chocolate flavor and subtle hints of rice, a thrilling tribute to a well-loved breakfast fare.

Tibuk-Tibuk

Velvet Delight: Tibuk-Tibuk

Judy Uson’s famous Tibuk-Tibuk again steals the show. Its velvety texture and superb taste flawlessly balance the bold flavors that define The Rockwellist Confections’ Pampanga Series.

L.A. Cheesebread

The Upcoming Delicacy: L.A. Cheesebread Bar

Soon to join the lineup is the L.A. Cheesebread bar. Drawing inspiration from the popular Pampangan baked good, this bar fuses the buttery delight of cheese bread with the indulgent sweetness of chocolate. This creation promises to ignite a craving like no other.

A Celebration of Filipino Flavors

Each creation in this collection narrates a story, rejoicing in the Philippines’ vibrant flavors and traditions, while daringly exploring the frontiers of taste and texture. These confections present an opportunity for Rockwellists to savor the diverse Kapampangan palate as the brand expands its presence here.

Rockwellist Confection Flavors

Through Rockwell at Nepo Center, the property developer has partnered with the Nepomuceno family to establish a mixed-use community replete with residential and retail spaces, including the first-ever Power Plant Mall outside Makati. Two residential towers—The Manansala and The BenCab—are currently offered within this thriving development in Angeles City.

Whether you’re a dessert aficionado or merely on the hunt for a sweet treat to satisfy your craving, The Rockwellist Confections Pampanga Series pays homage to the region’s rich culture and promises a flavor journey that will tantalize your senses and leave you craving for more. Don’t miss out on this culinary adventure – order them today at shop The Rockwellist or drop by their pop-up at the R1 Level of Power Plant Mall.

June 5, 2023
Lucky Me! Go Cups Ditches the Sachets!
Iconic noodle brand Lucky Me! has recently revealed that consumers can now enjoy Lucky Me! Go Cups without the sachets.

With seasonings already included inside the easy-prep cup, one only needs to add hot water and enjoy the same intense sarap flavors wherever and whenever. A handful of popular content creators and digital personalities, who also enjoy the variety of flavors offered with each Go Cup, have shared what they like most about the change.
1. No more hassle to add the seasoning
The feistiest of them all, Sassa Gurl mentioned how easy it is to just enjoy her favorite Lucky Me! Go Cups after her followers asked why she’s not adding the seasoning. Sassa hits back and says, “Nandun na po siya, nakalagay na po. Naka-install na yung powder! In-update nila!”

@itssassagurl
Mga nakshie, higop tayo sabaw! Ano ganap? Chikahan tayo with all new @Lucky Me! Go Cup Boogsh #LuckyMeEasyPrepCup #SachetItOff
♬ original sound – Sassa Gurl – Sassa Gurl

She also jokes, “Mas matitikman mo yung flavor kasi kumpleto na sa loob, kumpleto yung 18,000 granules!”

2. No sachets = instant satisfaction

One half of the viral PoCha duo, Warren Osinaga (aka Poca) recently shared how he went to a friend’s party to eat—apparently his reason for going—but the food wasn’t ready yet. So, he went back to his car momentarily where he was ready with hot water from a thermos bottle and just enjoyed a Lucky Me! Go Cup to satisfy his hunger.

@warrendanielosinaga
Iba rin ang atake netong Lucky Me eh. Napakasarap ng kain kahit nagtatatakbo ka na kung san sa @Lucky Me! #LuckyMeEasyPrepCup #SachetItOff
♬ Lo-Fi electric piano fashionable(840331) – yutaka.T

Poca exclaims, “Bahala kayo diyan, mas matimbang ang Lucky Me Spicy Bulalo kesa sa mga lumpiang shanghai niyo diyan!” The hilarious vlogger later explained that it’s easier to prepare now that there’s no need to fumble with sachets.

3. No Slow Work, More Bebu Time

Nelson Baraquia, whom netizens collectively acknowledge as Bebu, also enjoys a convenient pick-me-up between working out and working remotely. He appreciates how it has the “same intense sarap, now in an easy-prep cup.”

@justthebebu
Bebu 2.0 coming your way 🙈 @Lucky Me!
♬ original sound – Bebu – Bebu

4. No Assistance Needed

When you’re the “Trophy Wife” who everyone aspires to be like Rain Matienzo, you must be able to manage on your own, especially during workdays. Embodying her iconic character, Rain shares how she’s back to her acting career and showed what happens behind the camera.

@rainmatienzo
Ang hirap na nga ng trabaho at lovelife, buti nalang yung pag kain ng noodles mas madali na @Lucky Me! ❤️#LuckyMeEasyPrepCup #SachetItOff
♬ original sound – Rain Matienzo – Rain Matienzo

“After a few scenes, I was very tired na so I snuck in a quick merienda. Wala nga pala si Yaya dito so I was looking for someone to prep my Lucky Me Go Cup,” the content creator said, still in her character. “But I didn’t need someone to help me na pala so I just prepared it myself! No more sachets, less hassle!”

5. Intense Sarap you Stay, Sachet Away

After her stint in Drag Race Philippines, Viñas DeLuxe has gotten a lot busier. Which is why when getting ready for back-to-back performances, she said she has learned how to do her makeup quickly—often in less than 20 minutes.

@vinas.deluxe
GRWM full drag in 20 mins! May mas bibilis pa pala sa’kin?? #SachetItOff na ang #LuckyMeEasyPrepCup 🔥 Try niyo na rin ang mas convenient na Lucky Me! Go Cup now in Easy Prep Cup 🔥
♬ original sound – Vinas DeLuxe – Vinas Deluxe

“Sa tagal ko mag-makeup? Mga misis, kulang ako sa oras! Kaya naka-ready always itong Lucky Me! Go Cup!” she explains while doing makeup. “Dati pag namali pa ko nang pagbukas, nalalaglag sa makeup ko yung seasoning, ngayon wala nang sachet pero ganun pa rin kasarap!” she continues.

With these variants to choose from, Go Lang with your favorite Lucky Me! Go Cup, now in Easy Prep Cup—with no more sachets and with the seasonings already inside, just add hot water and enjoy the same Intense Sarap that you’ve always loved.

For more information and details, follow Lucky Me! on Facebook.
June 4, 2023
Taste the Luxurious Kurobota Pork at Café Ilang-Ilang This June

This June, Café Ilang-Ilang at The Manila Hotel is set to unveil a gourmet selection of Kurobuta pork dishes. Embark on a unique gastronomic journey as we highlight the locally-sourced Kurobuta pork, often distinguished as the ‘Wagyu of pork’, for its exceptional taste and quality.

Dubbed the “Wagyu of pork”, Kurobuta pork heralds from the English county of Berkshire. Known by its Japanese moniker meaning “black pig,” this quality meat is celebrated worldwide for its rich marbling, succulent tenderness, and distinct flavor that takes pork dishes to an entirely new level.

Executive Chef Konrad Walter, at the helm of The Manila Hotel’s culinary team, expressed his enthusiasm. “We are excited to elevate the buffet spread of Café Ilang-Ilang with the produce of Esguerra Farm.”

Esguerra Farms, tucked away in Lipa, Batangas, takes pride in their commitment to sustainable and ethical farming. The farm upholds stringent practices ensuring animal welfare and environmental conservation. In their exclusive Kurobuta Village, the pigs enjoy a secure, hygienic, and stress-free habitat. They receive top-tier care and nourishment, which contributes to their high pH level, facilitating perfect marbling and the preservation of the meat’s natural flavor and healthier color.

The talented culinary team of Café Ilang-Ilang has meticulously curated a buffet dinner spread incorporating the delectable qualities of Kurobuta pork. Patrons can anticipate dishes like Pork Ramen Soup, Kurobuta Pork Stew infused with Red Wine, Sweet Potato and Prunes, Korean Style Grilled Pork Belly, Mandarin Style Spare Ribs, Crispy Roasted Pork Pata, Spicy Thai Kurobuta Pork Salad, and even Mini Ensaymada crowned with Pork Lard!

These mouthwatering offerings are available on a rotating line-up at Café Ilang-Ilang’s Dinner Buffet every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from June 5 to 28, 2023. Rate is Php 3,145 nett per person. Half rate applies to children ages 5-12 years old, while 4 years old and below are free of charge.

Ready to savor the exquisite flavor of Kurobuta pork? For inquiries and reservations, please call (63 2) 8527-0011 or (63 2) 5301-5500, or email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your dining experience!

June 3, 2023
Love na babalik-balikan: Skater girl circles McDonald’s Ride-Thru for a heart-fluttering reason

Apart from the film’s cute twist at the end, what was even more pleasantly surprising was how McDonald’s broke category conventions by featuring a GL (Girl Love) story. When asked about the creation of the ad, McDonald’s Corporate Relations Director, Adi Hernandez shares, “Despite its rare representation locally, it was important that this love story is depicted as a regular, everyday occurrence at McDonald’s Philippines. Gender inclusivity is ingrained in our brand experience from our customers to our employees. No matter who you are, you are welcome and safe to come back here again and again – that’s what we wanted our audience to know.”

And the story behind the effortless acting that made everyone feel giddy? The brand along with its advertising agency, TBWA\SMP, factored in proper representation in casting and tapped a real member of the LGBTQ+ community. “We wanted to do it right, and we wanted to make sure they (the actors) felt comfortable.” says Adi Hernandez.

Last year, McDonald’s gained praises for sponsoring Pride March 2022 and now with this feel-good film, the brand is constantly proving that it’s not shying away from gender inclusivity. What’s next? Adi Hernandez says, “There’s more to come. This is a part of a broader campaign to show our commitment to ensuring McDonald’s continues to be everyone’s happy place.”

And we can’t help but say, we’re lovin’ this step towards inclusivity for McDonald’s.

June 2, 2023
SIMPOL Dishkarte is your Kitchen BFF
Do you know that there are 2 ways of “gisa” or sauteing? One is Chinese-style and the other one is Spanish-style. And how about choosing the right type of oil when deep-frying, sauteing, or preparing a salad dressing? How about marinating the meats or “babad” – before cooking – as one of the best ways to make meats juicy and delicious?

Welcome to Simpol DISHKARTE by Chef Tatung Sarthou! This is not your ordinary cookbook but a comprehensive guide for Pinoy cooking that will make kitchen time enjoyable and stress-free. Our goal is to provide you with the much-needed kitchen basics, hacks, tips, and tricks, easy-to-follow recipes, step-by-step photos, and illustrations so that you can have a happy & enjoyable cooking experience, whether at home for the family or a home-based business.

The book is divided into three (3) parts: Dish Is It, Dishkubre, and Dishkarte + Recipes.
- Part 1: Dish Is It, focuses on simple but basic cooking rules such as choosing the right ingredients, knowing what works with the dish to be cooked, and using the right cookware & knives (do remember using a blunt knife is an accident waiting to happen), the correct way of chopping the ingredients, defrosting tips and others.
- Part 2: Dishkubre, tackles the basic cooking techniques like boiling, steaming, sauteing, frying, deep-frying, thickening, or thinning the sauce, preparing the ingredients, and so much more.
- Part 3: Dishkarte is all about the different types of beef, pork, and chicken cuts. Also includes the list of flavor enhancers or pampalasa, herbs and spices, noodles, and rice paper, measuring units, and color-coding chopping boards for food safety.
- Part 3.5: Recipes. This is where we put the techniques and the basic kitchen concepts into action. Leveled-up Sinigang na Baboy, Molo Soup, Crispy Pata, Adobo cooked 4 ways (with gata, puti, pula and classic), Chicken Inasal, Laing, and different kinds of sauces from Chimichurri to Asian Barbeque Sauce to Classic Pinoy Barbeque Sauce.
Chef Tatung Sarthou, celebrity chef, restaurateur, and award-winning book author, says “Dishkarte was written to bridge the skill gap of home cooks to satisfy the discriminating tastes of people who frequent restaurants when served with home-cooked dishes. It is also written for non-English speakers by providing technical and practical know-how in the kitchen to function in a home or even commercial setting.” Chef Tatung also confirms that “the book is a perfect primer for non-cooks who want to venture into the kitchen. Mga naghahanap ng ibang career or hanapbuhay. Suitable for entry-level or community-based food businesses.”

On a more personal note, Chef Tatung wrote Dishkarte with his household staff in mind as well. “Ang hirap mag explain ng paulit-ulit, not to mention, time-consuming as there is much to cover and clarify.” says Chef Tatung. The book, initially published in 2018, is well-loved by Filipinos all over the world as evidenced by it being awarded as one of the top winners of the Filipino Readers Choice Award in 2022.

With our complete guide for Pinoy cooking in a language that most Filipinos can understand, we hope that everyone can learn how to cook delicious Pinoy dishes, understand the nuances and reasons why certain cooking techniques are done and without spending too much time or effort. So, let’s get started on your culinary journey today. Dapat sa kusina, Ma-Diskarte!

Simpol Dishkarte (Php 390.00) is available in all National Bookstore and Fully Booked outlets, and online on Amazon, Simpol stores in Shopee https://bit.ly/SimpolDishkarteBookShopee, and Lazada https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/simpol-store/.
June 1, 2023
Malaus Kayu! The Bistro Group expands to Pampanga; opens 6 New Restaurants at SM CITY Clark

Hot off the heels of multiple openings at Estancia Mall is the launch of not one, but six new Bistro restaurants this time, at SM City Clark.

The Bistro Group builds on a variety of cuisines under one roof – from burgers, ribs, pasta, dimsum, all-day breakfast fare, sushi and more. These can be enjoyed by guests inside the stores or at the great al fresco area.

“Our openings, whether in Metro Manila or in nearby provinces, is rooted on our company’s time-tested formula – great food in accessible locations, casual and fun ambiance plus the signature Bistro kind of service accorded to guests by our staff. We would like to replicate all these at our stores in SM City Clark,” Bistro’s COOs Guia Abuel and RC Tiongson. “People go to our restaurants not just to eat great food but to relax, bond with friends and family and have a wonderful time. It is important to us that they have this experience every time they visit our stores.”

            Opening on June 1 are Modern Shang and Italian’s; Denny’s on June 8 while TGI Fridays, Texas Roadhouse and Watami will be launched in July.

            Guests can cross-order from these restaurants to satisfy everyone’s appetite for different cuisines. All stores are located at the Ground Level, Clark Tech Hub 9 and 10.

ITALIANNI’S

From the effusive Buon Giorno! to the complimentary bread basket, starters, mains and desserts, the whole customer experience at Italiani’s is one that is saved in guests’ memory banks for a long time. The menu features classics like the Spinach Artichoke Formaggio, Spaghetti Meatballs, Quattro Staggioni and Chicken Italianni’s and new fare including Grilled Pear Salad; Braised Beef Osso Bucco Platter; Halibut Al Cartoccio and Blueberry Mango Cheesecake. Follow @italiannisph.

MODERN SHANG

Modern Shanghai hits the spot when on the lookout for dishes that are delicious, comforting, authentic and familiar. Enjoy orders of Braised Pork Knuckle and Braised Pork Belly; Xiao Long Bao, Steamed Hakaw Shrimp Dumpling, Roasted Crispy Pork, Wok-Fried Beef with Broccoli, Orange Chicken, Deep Fried Squid and Birthday Noodles, among others. Follow @modernshanghai.

DENNY’S

From breakfast to lunch, snacks, dinner and late-night dining, the food at Denny’s is always comforting and hearty like the All-American Slam, Mom’s Spaghetti, South Carolina Fried Chicken and Denny’s Share Four All. Sit in one of the comfortable booths, order, eat and bond amidst a warm and welcoming ambiance. Follow @dennysph.

TEXAS ROADHOUSE

Yee Haw! Look at the menu and see legendary dishes that made Texas Roadhouse famous in many parts of the world such as hand-cut steaks, fall-off-the-bone ribs, made-from-scratch sides and their famous freshly-baked bread. Enjoy a lively and fun meal, amidst a welcoming ambiance and an occasional line dance from the staff to keep the dining energy up. Follow @texasroadhouseph.

TGIFRIDAYS

American-style food, legendary drinks, genuine personalized service, bartenders who rock, a highly-charged vibe- that sum up the TGIFridays experience. In the menu, Fridays Signature Ribs takes the lead, as well as Fried Mozzarella, Nachos, Burgers, Pizzas and more.    Enjoy a 30% discount on the Happy Hour promo happening daily from2pm onward. Follow @tgifridaysph.

WATAMI

Finally, there’s Watami. Chef Masaaki Ishikawa brings to the restaurant his take on flavorful and classic Japanese cuisine steeped in Japanese culture and history. His latest creations include Atlantic Black Cod; Flame-grilled Beef Tenderloin with Wasabi Sesame Sauce and Smoked Duck Breast. Watami has a wide variety of Japanese favorites and classics such as assorted sushi, aburi, tempura, ramen and more. Follow @watamiph

June 1, 2023
Rediscover the Taste of Comfort with Max’s Sarap-to-the-Bones® Fried Chicken

Filipinos love to eat with friends and family, and one of the best places to do that is Max’s Restaurant – a Pinoy favorite since 1945. It serves classic Filipino dishes including its famous Sarap-to-the-Bones® Fried Chicken!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g62sql92w1c

Max’s Fried Chicken is flavorful from the first bite to the last, and that’s where it gets its famous Sarap-to-the-Bones® reputation. It’s the classic, no-frills kind of chicken sure to satisfy your cravings. It’s not just about the gold-popping skin — the meat is flavorful and juicy too. From the initial aroma of the chicken, you start to salivate. Don’t forget to dip it in its trademark accompaniment of banana ketchup, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Before you know it, you’ve devoured the whole thing.

Good service and sumptuous chicken, that has always been what Max’s is about. The story of Max’s Restaurant started right after World War II. A Stanford-educated teacher named Maximo Gimenez opened a restaurant to feed soldiers. His niece, Ruby, came up with a unique recipe for fried chicken. News about it spread and people came. Little by little, Max’s Restaurant grew.

Over the years, Max’s has built an empire around its one-of-a-kind fried chicken made from a 78-year-old recipe. Its distinctive flavor keeps customers coming back for more. Max’s Fried Chicken doesn’t just taste good, it tastes like summer afternoons with family, it tastes like long discussions over drumsticks, and “5 more minutes” with friends.

No wonder Max’s Restaurant has been a Pinoy family favorite for decades and its signature Fried Chicken will surely continue to be loved by many in the years to come. Come visit the store and re-discover the taste of Max’s Fried Chicken. Orders can also be made through delivery.maxchicken.com or (63 2) 888-79000 (Metro Manila).

May 31, 2023
Wolfgang’s Steakhouse inks contract with Araneta Group

The Araneta Group signed a contract with Wolfgang’s Steakhouse for the opening of an upcoming branch at the new Gateway Mall 2 in Araneta City.

Present during the contract signing were (from left to right) Elena Zwiener, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse President Raymund Magdaluyo, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Co-founder and Director Wolfgang Zwiener, Araneta Group CEO and Chairman Jorge Araneta, Peter Zwiener, Araneta City SVP for Operations Antonio Mardo, and Araneta City VP for Leasing Lorna Fabian.

Wolfgang’s Steakhouse at Araneta City will be the 5th branch of the US-based steakhouse in Metro Manila, and the second to open in the metro with a grill concept.

May 24, 2023
Uncle John’s now available via MetroMart

Popular convenience store chain Uncle John’s is now available to order online via MetroMart, the #1 online grocery delivery service in the Philippines.

Customers may now avail quick pantry restocking from Uncle John’s with MetroMart Express, with minimal order volume and delivered within the hour.

The first 10 Uncle John’s convenience store locations available with MetroMart include Mayhaligue Street in Tondo, Manila City, Greenpark Cainta in Rizal, Western Bicutan in Parañaque City, Vergonville in Las Piñas City, Fatima Main along McArthur Highway in Valenzuela City, Montojo and Malibay branches in Pasay City, Jose Abello Street in BF Resort, Las Piñas City, Robinsons Novaliches along Quirino Highway in Quezon City, and Blue Sapphire in BGC (Bonifacio Global City) in Taguig City.

Get FREE Delivery when you order from Uncle John’s with a minimum spend of ₱1,000.

This promo is valid for ALL Users, within May 22 until June 4, 2023, terms and conditions apply.

Try convenient, time-saving online shopping for a wide selection of groceries and essentials with MetroMart. Download the app via https://bit.ly/DownloadNowMM

May 24, 2023