December 22, 2017

Market Market! Relaunches Home and Gift Market for the Holiday Season

It has been a while since I last visited Marker!Market! in Taguig. Since I was around the BGC area for the opening of Tsuta Philippines in High Street Central, I decided to pass by Market!Market! for the relaunch of the Home and Gift Market.

Initially, I thought the home and gift market are located inside the department store. Turns out, each  section occupies a big area at the 3rd floor of the mall. The Home Market on one side, and the Gift Market on the other. Surely, there is something for everyone here.


We started at the Home Market section where you can find literally everything from furniture, art and paintings, to bed frames, storage cabinets, bedroom and dining essentials. 

December 20, 2017

Tsuta Philippines- Michelin-Starred Truffle Soba Noodles Finally Comes to Manila!

Another Michelin-starred restaurant comes to Manila, as Tsuta Japanese Soba Noodles opens its first Philippine branch in Bonifaio High Street, BGC in Taguig last December 16.


Tsuta Philippines is brought to us by the FOODEE Global Concepts, the same group behind some of the top restaurants in the country like Mesa, Sunnies Cafe, Tim Ho Wan, Foo'd by Davide Oldani, LlaoLlao, Pound, Hook, Todd English Food Hall, and soon, another Michelin-starred restaurant from Singapore Hawker Chan. 

December 14, 2017

Tsuta Japanese Soba Noodles- World's 1st Michelin-Starred Ramen Opens in Manila!

Good news to all ramen fans! The first Michelin-starred ramen restaurant in the world has finally come to Manila! After bringing in some of the best Michelin-starred restaurants in the world such as Tim Ho Wan, FOO'D by Davide Oldani, and Hawker Chan (also opening soon), FOODEE Global Concepts has yet again brought another world renowned concept that will surely capture the hearts of the Filipino community. 


The first Tsuta shop was opened by Chef Onishi Yuki in Sugamo, Tokyo back in January 2012.  It was his vision of showcasing to the world a dish that is authentically Japanese that inspired him to come up with a unique recipe of the ubiquitous Japanese fare. 

Tsuta's award-winning signature Shoyu Soba (soy-based sauce flavored ramen) boasts of the highest quality and freshly made noodles in deliciously rich broth from a blend of stock made with asari clams and chicken. The light and refreshing broth is then flavored by soy sauce made out of soybeans fully matured for two years in the shoyu brewery in Wakayama, especially for the restaurant. The resulting broth is clear, allowing other ingredients like the char siu, bamboo shoots, leeks, and truffles pureed in truffle oil to take center stage in the mouth in a well-orchestrated explosion of flavors.


December 9, 2017

Locally Blended Juice Drink- 100% Homegrown and Unique Flavors of the Philippines

There's a new local beverage player in the market, brought to us by one of the leading sauces and condiments manufacturing and distribution company in the country. Locally is NutriAsia's first venture into the beverage industry, and they are upping their game by coming out with unique, witty, and pun-ny names for their ready-to-drink fruit juice line up.


Locally currently has ten (10) indigenous and homegrown flavors that are sourced from various locations/provinces in the country.

December 6, 2017

SM Markets x Unilever Bigger, Better SM Limited Edition GreenBag, The Good Bag

To celebrate its 10th year of going green and promoting more sustainable shopping habits, SM Markets, in partnership with Unilever Philippines, recently launched its new limited edition SM Greenbag, just in time for the holidays. Being the pioneer of the reusable bag 10 years ago, SM continues with its advocacy to take part in saving the environment in its own little way.


The new SM Greenbag comes in a stylish color of red and green with chevron waves, that goes well with the holidays, but subtle enough to be used all year round. Take it with you on multiple shopping trips to the supermarket, grocery and malls, and fill it up with your favorites products and goodies, or even gifts to your friends and families.

December 2, 2017

California Raisins PH- Bake with Love with Chef Miko Aspiras #HealthyForChristmas

Tis the season for giving as California Raisins, in collaboration with Chef Miko Aspiras of Le Petit Souffle and Scout's Honor, comes up with delectable recipes that you can easily make for your family and loved ones this coming Christmas. 

In partnership with various distributors and suppliers of California raisins in the Philippines, California Raisins organized a baking demonstration to share how breads and pastries make the perfect gift for your loved ones this coming holiday season.



November 27, 2017

Aquafina- The World's Best-Selling Bottled Water Brand is Now in the Philippines!

Aquafina, the famous bottled water brand in the U.S., has finally come to the Philippines. Known for its purity, Aquafina brand has won over consumers from around the world since its introduction in 1994.


Few weeks ago, Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines held a grand launch at the Ibiza Beach Club in BGC, to formally introduce Aquafina Purified Water to the local market.


“Filipinos always demand for quality and credibility and the same is true when it comes to bottled water. With the continuously growing water category in the country, it’s high time for Filipinos to experience the pure water that Aquafina has to offer.' says Melai Lazaro-Javier, PepsiCo Category Manager.

November 26, 2017

The Top 4 Gifts to Give To Any Fishing Lover This Christmas Season

Fishing can be a very rewarding experience for the people who do it in the right manner and those who have the right equipment. As such, there are many types of equipment that one can buy so that they can be successful fishermen. One of these equipment items is something that makes fishing easy and fun. It is called the fish finder. The fish finder uses sonar to locate the position of fish that are underwater. With this device, fishermen rely on the detected pulses of sound energy that are produced by fish located underwater. The fish finder will have this information reflected on its screen hence helping the operator to know where there are schools of fish. Now, with this best fish finders page, you will get to know more about how the fish finders work and the best fish finders that are available on the market today.

Would you like to buy fish finders as gifts to your family members? What are some of the gifts that are suitable a fishing lover in your family? Well, here are the top 4 gifts that you can give someone who loves fishing:

1. Fish Finders

November 23, 2017

Jolly Cow Condensada Recipes: Spread the Cheer with Jolly Cow Tasty Treats

Christmas is a time of sharing, giving, and the perfect occasion to show the people you love that you truly care. Relive favorite Christmas moments with delicious, creamy, and tasty treats, the whole family will surely enjoy by whipping up some festive dishes made with love. 

“Sleigh the buffet” table with mouthwatering dishes prepared from the heart with Jolly Cow Condensada.

Whether you’re planning a cocktail party, hosting a Christmas get-together, or just celebrating an intimate dinner with family and loved ones, these recipes from Jolly Cow Condensada will surely make your Christmas a holiday to remember.

Fusilli Salad
Ring in the holiday season with a fusilli salad that is a sure crowd-pleaser! It is delicious, hearty, and probably the best thing you'll eat all holiday season long.


The Top 3 Ways to Save Money on Millennium Hotels this Holiday Season

Staying in a millennial hotel when you are on holiday is fun. This is because they are very convenient. In fact, you can order for a meal without calling the room service and open the doors using an app. However, staying in a fancy hotel can cause you to spend a lot of money. They make it so convenient and easy that if you are not careful, you may not be able to spare even a single cent during your holiday which will leave you without money to pay for other bills when you return home. In fact, accommodation expenses can exceed other holiday expenses such as car rentals and air tickets. Here are a few tips to help you cut back on accommodation costs.

1. Don’t Exceed Your Budget


Most first time holidaymakers tend to spend a lot of money probably because they don’t know what to do to avoid straining their pockets. Since you have already decided how much you want to spend, you should not spend beyond what you had budgeted for. Although millennial hotels come with many features that revolve around technology, they can be very costly for those that spend most of their time in their rooms. 

November 9, 2017

Heritage Premium Snacks Dried Fruits and Nuts: California Produce, Endless Possibilities

Heritage Philippines recently held a media event and culinary demonstration to formally launch and introduce its wide range of products in the market. While the brand has long been available in leading groceries and supermarkets, the company is currently set to expand and grow its local market presence.


The launch introduced the brand's wide selection of healthy California produce such as almonds, walnuts, pistachios, raisins, and cranberries.


November 8, 2017

4 Tips to Getting Started with Your Nutrisystem Program

If you are looking to lose weight and do so in an enjoyable way, then you need to look no further than Nutrisystem. Through this system, you can access a diverse range of plans depending on your goals towards weight loss and healthy living. Many people have tried this system, and it has worked quite well for them. You may try it too, and you are guaranteed to see results within a short time. All you need is to get started! In case you are having challenges getting started, the following article will take you through 4 tips to getting started with your Nutrisystem program.

Engage a Nutrisystem Counselor

Trying to lose weight is not an easy thing.  But if you want to get started and stay motivated in your weight loss journey, get in touch with a counselor. The counselor will help you get started in two ways. For starters, they will encourage you, which is what most people lack. Secondly, they guide you on how to eat given that they have gone through the same process themselves. If you engage a Nutrisystem counselor, chances are that you will get started and stay on the program till the end.

October 29, 2017

Ayala Malls Cloverleaf Balintawak- The Newest Lifestyle Destination in the North

Good news to people of the north! You just got lucky as Ayala Malls Cloverleaf finally opened its doors in Balintawak, Quezon City. The grand opening was held last October 25, 2017 wherein mall-goers were greeted by a festive marching band and treated to a day full of surprises.


Aside from several promos and amazing discounts offered by mall merchants and partners, special giveaways and gimmicks were also prepared by some of our favorite retail stores.

I was one of the people who got excited with Ayala Cloverleaf's opening, Finally, there's an Ayala mall that is closer to our office apart from Trinoma and Vertis North.


Ayala Malls Cloverleaf boasts a 100% lease occupancy for commercial spaces, and has an impressive 81% open merchants during its first day of operations.

Moving on with the mall tour, I'm pretty sure most of you are excited to know the different restaurants, retail stores, services, and lifestyle activities you can find in Ayala Malls Cloverleaf.

Here are some of the merchants and establishments at Ayala Malls Cloverleaf:

October 26, 2017

US Dehydrated Potato Recipe: Fried Cheesy US Mashed Po-Taco Wontons

I've talked about the health benefits and other importantthings you need to know about US Potatoes. Now, I would like to share a simple US potato recipe that you can easily make at home.

A few months ago, I came up with a healthy vegetarianpoutine recipe, using frozen US potato crinkle-cut fries. This time, I decided to use US Dehydrated Potatoes.

US dehydrated potatoes are high-quality US potatoes, with their water content removed. US dehydrated potato products deliver all the flavor, nutrition and versatility of potatoes in a more convenient package.


Using US dehydrated potatoes saves time and money as you can do away with the process of washing, peeling, and boiling potatoes. Plus, US dehydrated potatoes have a longer shelf life that can last for up to two years.

There are different types of dehydrated potato products that the US potato industry produces. Some of which are potato dices, slices, shreds, flakes, granules and flour.


Standard potato flakes are among the most common types available in the local market. They are made from premium US potatoes, with bright white color, and when reconstituted, have the dry, mealy texture and delicious flavor typical of freshly cooked mashed potatoes.

US Potato Facts: Important Things You Need To Know About US Potatoes

Did you know? The potato is the fourth largest food crop following rice, wheat, and corn. The famous tuber crop is widely cultivated and consumed around the world, making it one of the most important staple food and commodity.

US Potatoes are grown in all 50 states of the U.S. and in about 125 countries throughout the world. It remains to be America's favorite side dish because of its nutritional value and other health benefits.

 

While rice is still the staple food in the Philippines, you'll be surprised to know that Filipinos consume US Potatoes more often than any other crop there is. Why not? US Potatoes are delicious, nutritious, and sustainable to incorporate into your regular diet.

October 21, 2017

Light Up Your Christmas with Healthy Options 2017 Holiday Gift Collection

The season of giving is finally here, it's time once again to spread the holiday cheer! 
Christmas shopping, giving gifts and festive celebrations with friends and family, truly makes this the most wonderful time of the year. 

Have you prepared your Christmas shopping list yet? 

Healthy Options, the Philippines’ first and only retail store exclusively specializing in all-natural and organic products, finally comes out with their 2017 Holiday Gift Collection that will surely light up everyone's Christmas!


The Light Up Your Christmas theme from Healthy Options was inspired from the idea of sharing gifts that would benefit recipients beyond the material aspect. A way to naturally emanate light and love- through sharing gifts of health, beauty and wellness. 

Healthy Options is holding its annual gift show on Oct 20-22 at Healthy Options Shangri-La and Glorietta 2 branches, wherein Christmas shoppers can pre-order and avail of exclusive discounts and privileges. 


October 18, 2017

Incoco Nail Polish Applique- 100% Real Nail Polish in Minutes #IncocoRocks

Incoco Nail Polish Applique is your next generation nail polish that promises to give you that perfect "manicure in minutes" every single time.


For women who are always on the go, visiting the nail salon could be a considered a luxury of time. Aside from having to book appointments at your nearby salon especially during peak hours, it could also be costly and very time-consuming.  

I for instance, prefer to do my own nails at home. Working on an 8-hour office schedule, I'm lucky if I'd be able to hit the nail salon after work without being rejected because they are already fully booked for the night.

Another reason why I opt to do my own nails is because I love creating and experimenting on nail art designs depending on my mood.

Here are some nail art designs I've made before:


October 10, 2017

Plato Wraps Introduces New Exciting Flavors: Crabby Rappu & Per-Peri Latino Wrap

Plato Wraps celebrates its 16th year anniversary by rolling out fresh new additions to their menu. 

What started out as a labor of love in 2001 by husband and wife Tony and Kameela Seen, has now become one of the country's well-loved local snack brand. This time, mother and daughter tandem Kamela and Kreme Seen-Sumayo, comes out with two bold and exciting flavors to provide a fresh new taste and experience for their loyal customers.

Plato Wraps has been our go-to quick grub when strolling around malls and sometimes even during our movies dates. One is never enough that we always get our favorite classic flavors- Yummy Tuna, Chunky Chicken, and Ham & Cheese

Imagine my excitement when I learned about Plato Wraps two new and exciting flavors:
Peri-Peri Latino Wrap and Crabby Rappu.

October 6, 2017

CloseUp Fresh Attraction: Oxyrush and Artic Shock for Freshness Like Never Before

After introducing its new look this year, CloseUp Philippines comes out with two new flavors that continuously break barriers to bring people closer than ever. The all new CloseUp Fresh Attraction gel toothpaste, is powered with a rush of shocking menthol, to boost your confidence and let you experience freshness like you've never felt before.


CloseUp Fresh Attraction Oxyrush is formulated with a glacier fresh mouthwash and crystal clear frost with peppermint flavor + sandalwood and ylang-ylang. 

CloseUp Fresh Attraction Artic Shock is formulated with artic menthol mouthwash and ice crystal, with peppermint flavor + lemon and lychee.

October 1, 2017

Hop Inn Hotel Makati x Tralulu Presents: Poblacion Food and Art Hop Like No Other

I have joined several food tours and food crawls around the metro, but there was nothing like the food hop I experienced with Hop Inn Hotel last week. Seven months after opening its pioneering branch in Ermita, Hop Inn Hotel Makati Avenue opened its doors last August 2017.


Hop Inn Hotel, in partnership with Tralulu, hosted a walking food tour of Makati Avenue's budding food and art destination, that is Poblacion. While Poblacion is home to various historical sites, and recognized as Makati’s heritage district, it has slowly developed into a creative and modern community, featuring some exciting and innovative concepts that offer a glimpse of this unassuming but promising neighborhood.

5 Tips to Hosting an Awesome Dinner Party For Your Friends

A dinner party is a fun way to bring your friends together. While going out sounds like a fun thing to do, good food and loads of fun conversation is also an exciting thing to enjoy. While all these sound great, throwing a dinner party can be a little complicated and stressful if you don’t know what to do. You have to consider a lot of things such as making the house clean, planning what meals to serve, and so much more. But if you have a proper planning on these things, you can definitely have a fuss-free dinner party that you ever dreamt of.

Here are five tips on how to host a dinner party for your friends.

1. Properly plan.


Plan ahead on how you would want your party to be. Make a checklist so you will not forget anything. Consider the important matters such as where you are going to hold the party. If you are going to have it hosted in your home, plan ahead on which area you would want it to be in. You can either do it indoors or have a special spot in the garden. Plan what food you are going to prepare as well. Having a proper prior plan for your dinner party will prevent you from having any problems.

September 28, 2017

5 Fun and Interesting Date Ideas and Activities for Couples to Stir Up Relationship

One common reality that hits couples who have been together for quite some time, is the fact that sparks and butterflies do not last forever. The feeling you got during your first date, may not be the same feeling you'll get after years of going out together. While this may be a normal issue among couples, there are fortunately many ways that you can do to stir up the relationship. 

One of which is doing fun and interesting things together other than the usual lunch or dinner dates. 

Here are some unique activities you can enjoy with your partner for that quality-time moments. 

1. Visit a Painting Studio

Unleash your inner Van Gogh and try your hand at painting. It doesn't matter if it's your first time to hold a paintbrush, or if you have zero art skills. What matters most is that you get to enjoy the moment of trying something new, and at the same time make fun of each others's masterpieces.


September 26, 2017

E! Bloggers Ball 2017: A Gathering of Top Social Media Infuencers at City of Dreams

Last weekend, D and I attended our first E!Bloggers Ball held at the Grand Ballroom of City of Dreams Manila. It was a gathering of the country's top social media influencers, bloggers, vloggers, Youtubers, instagrammers, and celebrities, all dressed up and made up to this once-a-year social event.


Everyone lit up the night as attendees came in their best ensemble, looking all stylish, dashing, and glamorous. Think of it as the Star Magic Ball of the local blogging/vlogging community.


September 22, 2017

Applebees's Grill & Bar Launches New Dishes to Give More Reasons to Celebrate!

Few weeks ago, Applebee's Philippines hosted an afternoon celebration and feast, to introduce their newest menu additions. We are not talking about 2-3 new dishes here, but a whooping 20 new items including salads, appetizers, pasta, meat and seafood dishes, burger and desserts.


We started off with one of the best food discoveries and pairing for the day: Applebees's Fried Sweet & Spicy Pickles (P195) paired with Engkanto Beer.


September 13, 2017

Kazunori Japanese Restaurant and Kazu Cafe at the Mazda Showroom in Makati

Been hearing about this new Japanese restaurant in Makati which is situated within the Mazda car dealership showroom along Chino Roces Ave. Kazunori Japanese Restaurant is apparently from the same people behind Mendoroko Ramenba and Ramen Yushoken.

The restaurant has three dining concepts: a casual cafe by the entrance (Kazu Cafe), an upscale sushi bar at the middle, and the main dining area at the back. The main dining also sports an open-kitchen bar table which can accommodate 10 persons.


The place, while unassuming, was packed with diners on a Saturday evening. We didn't have prior reservation, but was lucky to get a table at the main dining area.

For appetizers, we got the Kakiage (P420) tempura which I noticed most tables also have.


September 10, 2017

Salad Stop! Celebrates Salad Month This September with Eat Wide Awake Movement

SaladStop!, the ultimate destination for fresh salads, hearty wraps and other healthy snacks, celebrates its first ever Salad Month this September. The month-long campaign aims to help individuals start their fitness goals and maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.

SaladStop! has prepared a series of promos and fun activities in line with its "Eat Wide Awake Movement", starting off with the introduction of its "Eat Wide Awake Movers"- individuals who are known advocates of health, fitness, and wellness. 

On the list are actress Coleen Garcia, celebrity host Raymond Gutierrez, marathon enthusiast and host Kim Atienza, volleyball player Michelle Gumabao, and celebrity fitness coach Arnold Aninion, who are all known to keep a well-balanced lifestyle.


September 9, 2017

Jimm's Cafe Clara with El Maca Chocolate-Banana Boost Smoothie Recipe

I've written about the all new Jimm's Cafe Clara with El Maca before, and here I am again, sharing an interesting way to enjoy your usual cup of coffee.

We may often drink coffee mixes on its own, just by adding hot water to give us the energy we need throughout the day. But for people who are not really into the bitter taste of coffee, here is a recipe that you will surely like.

The first time I tasted Café Clara, I thought it was sweet, creamy and nutty, perfect to drink cold rather than hot. I recently came up with a quick and easy recipe that is both refreshing and revitalizing, to provide the extra boost of energy I need all day.

Check out my recipe below:


Café Clara Creamy Chocolate-Banana Boost Smoothie

Food Trip in Bohol – Best Restaurants To Visit in Bohol, Philippines

Bohol is a great weekend spot, and a great place for a culinary trip too. It went through a renovation phase in recent years, and now has many casual and fine dining places of a surprisingly high level. 

The other good thing about Bohol, is that between meals you'll have so many attractions to fill your days with. There is the fabulous Alona Beach, Chocolate Hills, the Tarsier Sanctuary, and the Loboc River. Getting to do them all while your tummy is full of good food is a huge bonus.


September 5, 2017

Kushikatsu Daruma Uptown Mall BGC: New Rice Bowl Lunch Sets at P265!

Kushikatsu Daruma, the world-famous kushikatsu place in Osaka, is known for their deep-fried skewers of meat and vegetables in a special bread flour coating. These skewers are then dipped into a deep-flavored umami sauce, a signature recipe by Kushikatsu Daruma.


It was our first time to visit Kushikatsu Daruma in Uptown Mall BGC, ever since it opened early this year. While we were set on trying their kushikatsu, we also wanted to check out their new lunch set promo.


5​ ​Tips ​to​ ​Selecting ​the Best​ Holiday Accommodations ​in ​Bali

Bali is a sprawling 5000 square kilometer tropical paradise that is famed as one of the top tourist and vacation destinations in the world. Strategically located in Southeast Asia, it is blessed with an amazing climate over a wonderful complement of sea and lush landscapes. The best way to experience all of these great features is to find a holiday accommodation that will perfectly suit your needs and preferences. 

Fortunately, you can easily find the best​ ​holiday accommodation​ ​in​ ​Bali without much effort as it is filled with hotels and villas that offer great convenience to visiting tourists.


To make sure you are selecting the best Bali holiday accommodation, you can follow these tips: 

August 23, 2017

Althea Korea First Exclusive Product Range: Althea Petal Velvet Powder

Althea, the leading online store for all k-beauty needs, finally comes out with its very own product line.

With all the famous Korean makeup brands that Althea is carrying, it is only fitting that Althea also comes out with their own product range.

Leading Althea's product line is Althea Petal Velvet Powder- a fragrant translucent loose powder that sets your makeup to a silky and radiant finish.

Infused with oil from Althea seeds, this powder works great to keep sebum production at bay without drying out the skin.  It promises to keep makeup looking great, and the face shine-free all day long.

Few weeks ago, I received a package from Althealand consisting of their first exclusive product-
the Althea Petal Velvet Powder.

Price: Php210.00
Weight: 3g
Type: loose powder
Where to buy: Althea website

It came in a cute pink box with matching flower petals with sweet powdery scent.


August 22, 2017

All New Jimm's Cafe Clara with El Maca Extract Instant Coffee Mix Review

Goldshine Pharmaceuticals Inc., the makers of Jimm's Herbal Coffee Mix, comes out with yet another drink that will surely make your daily cup of coffee extra special. Earlier this month, I received a box of the all new Jimm's Cafe Clara with El Maca extract to try. I am not much into instant coffee mixes, but I've always liked Jimm's coffee. It's a nice drink for those who want sweet and creamy coffee without the bitter taste.


August 17, 2017

Roadster Roasters- Get #FueledByMeat at the TV5 Launchpad Bldg Mandaluyong

Are you fueled by meat? There's a new spot in town for carnivore foodies to satisfy their meat cravings. 

Roadster Roasters is this new restaurant located at the TV5 Launchpad Bldg. in Mandaluyong.


We dropped by for a very late lunch one Saturday afternoon, to sample some of Roadster's signature roasts and dishes. The place wasn't hard to find, but parking was a bit of a problem. A parking lot is currently in the works to cater to dining customers in the area soon.

Roadster Roasters is a haven for meat-lovers. Their specialties include a 12-hour slow-cooked beef, 4-hr roasted pork barbecue ribs, and a crackling brick oven-roasted pork belly.