April 29, 2012

Toro Restaurant and Bar- A Mother's Day Special: 4-Course Degustation Menu

The month of May is fast approaching and once again, it is the time of the month where we give honor to our mother's and all mother's around the world. 

Aside from buying her flowers, writing her a card and taking her to a spa, why don't you treat Mom to a gastronomic delight in a fancy restaurant?

Why don't you bring Mom to Toro.

Toro Restaurant & Bar in BGC, would like to invite everyone to bring their mothers, wives, grandmothers and even the whole family to their restaurant for their Mother's Day Special Degustation Menu starting on May 1 to May 31, 2012.


Toro is a 1 year old restaurant in the heart of Bonifacio Gobal City that brings together the fusion of flavors from Tijuana, Mexico to Okinawa, Japan. 

I would write more about Toro on my next post but for now, I would like to introduce their menu items for their Mother's Day promo.

Soup

Sopa De Ostiones- osyters and tomatoes served with hearbs and spices


Tomato-based soup with white beans, oysters, leeks and crispy sotanghon noodles. This was like a Mexican bean soup with a touch of Japanese flavors from the oysters and cheese in fried lumpia wrapper. The soup was light with a little hint of seafood flavor from the oysters and crunchiness from the fried noodles. 

Salad

Cranberries and Bleu Cheese Saladorganic greens with cranberry jelly, bleu cheese and walnuts in strawberry balsamic dressing


Mother's will truly love this one of a kind salad that presents a beautiful arrangement of fresh lettuce, crispy noodle stalks and chives. Paired with a bed of cucumber slices topped with cranberry jelly, candied walnuts and bleu cheese, this is something different and worth to try. 

The strawberry balsamic dressing is mixed with a special sauce that gives a kick of tolerable spiciness to the salad. 

April 27, 2012

Buffalo Wild Wings- Eat All you Can Wings

We are such fans of buffalo wings that when a deal of an eat-all-you can buffalo wings came up, I immediately got ourselves 2 vouchers for Buffalo Wild Wings.

The place was not that hard to find since we've seen it before several times. Or maybe anything with the word "Buffalo Wings" really catches our attention. 


The place had this red and white theme from their tables to the chairs that reminded me of The Real Thing Diner that used to be in Il Terrazzo.


Menu was given to us the moment we sat down on the couch area. There's not a lot of choices but we didn't mind since we're only here for their wings and their wings ONLY. 


We've figured that ordering other dishes might make us immediately full hence letting us consume less wings which is definitely not a good idea right?

We first ordered for their Picolo and 5-Star wings.


Honestly, it was hard to tell the difference between the two orders since both were very much alike. 

Then again, it's basically the same. One is just spicier than the other.

The only thing we noticed was the sizes of their wings. 

Small, Medium , Large

April 25, 2012

Naci- Comfort Food and Dessert Bar in Greenhills


I've received a box of cupcakes from Naci before and so my initial impression of this establishment  was a dessert or pastry shop. Then, I learned that they also serve selections of comfort food. Based from the name Naci, I couldn't seem to figure out what kind of cuisine they are serving.

Not until I finally get to dine at Naci located at the 2nd floor of Fox Square Bldg. in Connecticut, Greenhills. 

Naci was named after Nacy Nocom, a restaurateur and father of Naci's general manager, Nadine Nocom.


Nadine happily attended to our questions that night and gave more information about Naci. She briefly introduced the menu and explained that some items were named after their family. We also learned that Naci's menu items were especially created by the renowned Chef Ed Quimson. Need I say more?


Naci was surprisingly big with private function rooms where one can hold events from small parties to big gatherings. 

I love the homey and laid back ambiance of the place. It is a perfect setting for an intimate family dinner or even a casual date with a special someone.

Moving on with Naci' comfort food selections, first to land on our table was Naci's sampler of their best-selling appetizers. 

Naci's Starters Sampler


Chorizo and Brie Puffs (P380)Baked cream puffs filled with spinach, chorizo, brie and banana

This one was one of my favorites. A great twist to the classic cream puffs with everything nice on it. The fusion of flavors from the different fillings played exceptionally well to make this dish a complete hit. 

Junior Crabcakes (P280)Shallow fried sauteed crabmeat served with remoulade and petite greens

The Junior Crabcakes reminded me of the crabcakes we had at Oakroom, only Naci's version had a sharper seafood flavor. 

Beef Taco Springrolls (P210)Crispy spring rolls stuffed with beef taco filling topped with tomato salsa and sour cream

These crispy spring rolls brought nostalgic memories of making home-made tacos at home. 

Buffalo Chicken Wings (P295)- Deep fried marinated chicken wings with buffalo glaze sauce served with bleu cheese dip and celery sticks

How can one resist this juicy glazed buffalo wings? The sauce was very flavorful and although the chicken was quite small, I couldn't ask for more. 

Next to be served were Naci's line of salads. 

Smoked Salmon Salad (P290)mixed greens, tomatoes, fried onion rings tossed in honey lemon dill dressing with smoked salmon  nuts and parmesan shavings

April 23, 2012

Brew-Kus "The Bev-wich Shop" - Life's Simple Joys

After a healthy lunch we had at Sugarleaf, we went straight to Brew-Kus for Breakfast Magazine's Breakfast Club.


Located in Valero, Makati, Brew-Kus is dubbed as "The Bev-wich Shop" short for beverages and sandwiches. And basically, These are their main specialties 

So why Brew-Kus? 

Brew, a process of making beverages by boiling and steeping various ingredients. Brew-kus basically brews everything in their beverage menu from coffee to tea.

Kus, was derived from the word cuisine but the owners decided to drop the letter I for better pronunciation of the name. Brew-Kus rather than Brew-Kuis.. I certainly agree :) 


Starting off with their beverages menu, I opted for their refreshing True Teas line.


Lychee True Tea (P80)


Their Lychee True Tea was refreshing indeed. It was not overly sweet and the evident flavor of the lychee blended perfectly well with the ice cold tea.

Assam Milk Tea (P90) and Caramel Macchiato (P150)


Brew-Kus also offers a selection of the famous milk tea drinks with pearls and espresso-based beverages. 

Appetizer of Crisp Mushroom Ravioli (P180) was first served on the table.

Sugarleaf Media Release: Treats for Mom This Month of May

Treats for Mom This Month of May


For the entire month of May, Sugarleaf… foods that nourish treats old-time and expecting Moms to special treats and freebies from its all-day dining menu as well as from our mini-mart of organic and natural items.

Plus for expecting Moms, there’s the FREE talk Maternal Matters with Medela on 26 May, 2-3:30pm where they can spend with MedelaMoms Beng Feliciano and Maricel Cua as they discuss the benefits of breastfeeding their babies. The two veteran breastfeeding moms will share their insights on how to prepare for a successful breastfeeding journey.  

For a minimum dine in of P500, all Moms enjoy a hearty bowl of our organic soup of the day.  For a P1,000 purchase from our mini-mart, she gets a cup of Jello’s Probiotic Ice Cream or two fruit pops–perfect to share with the little ones this hot summer month.


Mommies, come prepared with questions you want answered for afterwards, MedelaMoms Beng and Maricel will sit down with you for a candid and intimate question and answer session!  

Contact Angelo on 0917 8039 055 or angelo@sugarleafph.comfor more information and reservations.

Sugarleaf in Makati is located at the G/ and 2/F of the MEDICard Lifestyle Center, 51 Paseo de Roxas corner Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Urdaneta Village Makati City.  Tel 812 7323.  

Greenhills branch is located at G/F Health Cube Building, 226 Wilson Street, West Greenhills, San Juan, Metro Manila.  Tel 661 6639 or mobile 0917 837 4257.  

Like us on Facebook Sugarleaf Foods That Nourish and follow us on Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/sugarleafers

April 20, 2012

The White Hat Cup Challenge


Andi And Jessica Challenges YOU!

The White Hat – Italian Frozen Yogurt, officially welcomes Ms. Andi Manzano and Ms. Jessica Mendoza as its official brand ambassadors.  To kick off the event, TWH is launching the TWH CUP CHALLENGE with this question – “How many yogurt cups can you carry?”. 

Here’s Andi & Jessica speaking about it:



Akiba Cafe- A Taste of Love in SM Megamall

Akiba Cafe- Simple but unique, a name that exudes originality and authenticity for a Japanese Cafe. 


Akihabara which is known as the electronic district of Tokyo, Japan is where Akiba Cafe got its name. 

Opened July of last year, this young and sophisticated cafe in SM Megamall Bldg A vastly generated a great number of loyal customers from coffee aficionados, tea drinkers and even regular shoppers who just can't seem to miss out this little hub for some Japanese delights. 


Starting off with their best seller for hot drinks is the Nutty Macadamia Kohi (P120)


A blend of roasted coffee and macadamia then finished off with sprinkles of sesame seeds, this drink is an example of a perfect cup of coffee. The smooth texture and mellow sweet flavor of the latte calms the senses that gives a relaxing peace of mind.

Akiba Cafe also offers a wide range of cake choices that changes almost everyday. The fact that their cakes solds out fast shows that each has its own character of flavors. 

Tiramisu (P120)


Tiramisu plays the Simple character. Not the usual Tiramisu I've tried before which has a strong coffee flavor. This one was more on the light airy mousse like kind of cream cake. Light and smooth, the best Tiramisu cake I've had so far. 

Sweet Potato Cake (P130)


April 18, 2012

Sugarleaf- A Haven of Health and Foods that Nourish

Healthy Eating is Healthy Living. Who doesn't want to be healthy? Especially nowadays more and more chemically processed food and selections are available in the market. We say that we are healthy eaters just because we consume these drinks with milk and tea and those baked-not-fried chips. Well, not if there's a huge amount of sugar added into it, and not if the products were still artificially flavored and processed. I myself is guilty of that, thinking that these products are way better than others. I admit, I sometimes don't eat healthy. 

It's just that sometimes, healthy eating is synonymous to sacrifice. Sacrifice on eating those boring looking and bland tasting edible things that you yourself can't even explain what that is. Another factor is the price of these organic and healthy produce. We are set back by the fact that organic/healthy food cost more than our "regular" meals. 

Well, this is not the case for Sugarleaf, a health haven that offers healthy and organic menu options without sacrificing the taste and flavors of each dish. As how they put it: "Unbelievably Healthy"


Named after Stevia, a plant known to have sweet leaves and sometimes used as a sweetener and sugar substitute, Sugarleaf defines the sweet and happy feeling you could experience in eating healthy.

Not to miss in Sugarleaf are their Goody Kefir Wraps all drizzled with authentic Goody Kefir dressing making it better and healthier.

Sugarleaf's Goody Wraps are all made with soft whole wheat tortilla enfolding fresh and crisp lettuce and your pick from their 5 flavors- Vegetarian, Crabstick & Mango, Chicken, Smoked Fish and Beef.

Smoked Fish Goody Wrap (P238) and Free-Range Chicken Goody Wrap (P238) 


Although the Smoked Fish Wrap had a sharper and distinct taste, the Chicken Wrap was light and flavorful. Yet, both wraps were equally good and filling.

Crabstick & Mango Goody Wrap (P188)


My personal choice was their Crabstick & Mango Goody Wrap (P188) which had chunks of fresh ripe mangoes, kani and cucumber. It was a great healthy twist to the classic california maki minus the heavy amount of carbs.

As thirst quenchers, we were served with their Goody Kefir-chia Smoothies and Organic Soya-Chia Milkshakes


April 16, 2012

PLDT myDSL & Nuffnang bring you The Avengers!

"PLDT myDSL "Anna Banana" Commercial"


Have you watched this commercial by PLDT myDSL before?

Watching TV is part of my daily activities and so this commercial did not escape me the moment it was released earlier this month.

This is the original Anna Banana video that got more than a million hits. 


Some people may find this video annoying but for me I find it cute and funny. There's something in there that you just can't hate. 

And here's another video that shows the kid thanking everyone who helped in getting his million views. 




April 13, 2012

Moshi Moshi Japanese Fast Food- Regis Center, Katipunan


Got to try this Japanese restaurant in Regis Center Katipunan called Moshi Moshi together with other Openricers last month.

"Moshi Moshi" is a widely used Japanese language greeting to mean hello when answering the telephone or to get somebody's attention. 

In this case, the moment we entered the cool and brightly lit Moshi Moshi Restaurant, it certainly caught our  attention. 


The program started with a brief introduction of Moshi Moshi and a question and answer game afterwards. Winners received a unique moshi moshi mug that changes its appearance when hot water was placed into it. 

First served to us was a glass of their Milk Tea (P55) 


I love the sweet caramel and roasted milk tea flavor. The drink was not too heavy and I'd certainly order this again on my next visit. 

Miso Soup (P35)


The miso soup was incredibly affordable given its taste. For just P35, you'll get an authentic taste of miso soup just like those in other Japanese restaurants. 

Gyoza (P95) 


Moshi Moshi's pan fried gyoza fell short of my expectations. It wasn't that meaty and I find it a bit mushy too. 

Takoyaki (P55)

Their takoyaki on the other hand was a winner. Again for its price, it is definitely worth a try. The takoyaki balls were soft and I love the bonito flakes (Katsuobushi) on top. The sauce drizzled all over added to a much flavorful taste to the takoyaki.

April 10, 2012

Snaps Sports Bar- Sofitel Manila


Snaps Sports Bar is the newly opened 24-hour sports lounge of Sofitel Manila. Designed for the sports fanatics and enthusiasts who just want to sit around, have a couple of beers and wine, grab some food for sharing while playing pool and foosball in the area. Basically people who just want to have great times with friends and families.



Snaps Sports Bar has this sophisticated and modern interior design coupled with large LCD TVs to watch your favorite sports and games. 


Jerseys and memorabilia beautifully framed and hung onto the walls with comfortable couches and big pillows for a more relaxed and cozy feel.

April 3, 2012

Saizen (Daiso) Philippines- Shopping Spree with Carizza Chua

"Saizen is a one stop shop for everything you need. From home decors to kitchen supplies, from office tools to various school materials. Saizen offers all our basic necessities. And of course, let’s not forget that they also offer delicious snacks and treats that you can only find in Saizen. Being a Japanese brand, there’s assurance of their product’s durability and quality at really affordable prices. Plus, the colorful and creative designs of their products entice customers to grab themselves some of Saizen’s finest goods. And shopping with Carizza would be the cherry on top of this incredible spree!"

That's my winning entry to Carizza Chua's Saizen Shopping Spree Giveaway. I was really surprised and at the same time excited the moment I saw that I won this contest. Another awesome gift for my birthday! :)

Went to Saizen's biggest branch at Robinson's Galleria to do our shopping spree with Carizza and two other winners of her giveaway, Krischia and Liz. 

This was after the Galleria robbery last week but we still braved that incident and finally found ourselves in front of the big Saizen store. 

After they handed out my P3000 worth of GCs to be used at Saizen, I'm all set to start my shopping spree.


Saizen is truly a one-stop-shop for everything you need. The setup of the store is arranged categorically making the shopping experience easier and organized. 

Some of their sections include:
-Food                                              -Health and Beauty           -Cosmetics                                    
-Household-Tableware                       -Gardening                         -Pet Supplies
-Kitchen Storage, Tools & Supply      -Toys                                -Tools
-Interior and Home Decoration           -Office and Stationery        -Fashion and Accessories


Food and Imported Treats


Starting off from the food section which I love the most, I carefully checked each product and see if anything interests me. (As if anything related to food would not catch my interest)


Saizen offers delicious snacks and treats imported from Japan. Most if not all were unfamiliar to me since you won't normally see these treats from your local supermarkets. Only in Saizen! :) 

April 1, 2012

TLC Chowdown Challenge- Man Vs. Food in the Philippines

Are you familiar with Adam Richman's Man Vs. Food? It is basically a US TV program about a man who travels around the country on a quest to face off against a food challenge at a local restaurant. Well, it just landed here in the Philippines. Brought to you by Discovery Channel's Travel & Living Channel (TLC), you too can experience a one of a kind gastronomic battle.


There are 3 challenges offered where one can participate in:

-Sbarro's Great White Pizza Challenge 
Finish the 18-inches(4-pound) full serving of Sbarro's NY Style White Pizza in the allotted time of 15 minutes. 

-Gerry's Grill Platter Meal Challenge 
Finish Gerry's Grill Platter meal of Crispy Pata, Sisig, Pinaputok na Cream Dory and Rice within 10 minutes. 

-Gong Cha's Milk Tea Challenge 
Finish Gong Cha's 1 liter Milk Tea with Pearl in 30 seconds.

Visit your nearest participating branch or their Facebook page for more inquiries regarding the complete mechanics.
*terms and conditions apply
Hurry! The challenge will run until April 15, 2012.