Korean Chicken Joints in Metro Manila

Have you heard of the class of restaurant that is popping all over the towns of Korea because of its popularity? Oh, you shouldn’t miss to eat in this kind of place. Korean food is proud to present its many Korean Chicken Joints all over town that are becoming very famous for its Korean fried chicken dishes. It has a taste of spicy and garlicky hot wings.

 In Manila, you can find 4 Fingers Crispy Chicken restaurant that offers good Korean-style fried chicken. This restaurant can be found at SM North Edsa Mall, Quezon City.

 Korean Chicken Joints are known for their chickens that are dredged in flour, seasoned with salt and pepper for two times for long periods. Then these are deep fried to give us that crispy texture. After first fry, chicken is cooled for five to ten minutes. These are then pressured fried in order to give back lost moisture to the chicken. After merely five minutes of pressure frying in peanut oil, chickens are cooled again. Korean chili paste, a popular barbecue sauce among Koreans is added. A well done dish would have the sauce absorbed all the way to the crust. Some versions of the dish would add scallions or sesame seeds. Other would prefer the traditional soy sauce and garlic mixture. It can be noted that the most popular dishes are not too sweet, not too hot and not too sticky.

Bon Chon is the most popular Korean Chicken Joint around. Many diners are amazed with how they properly make the crispy texture with the combination of its taste. You can choose from two flavors: spicy or garlic. It is a sure hit with over 40+ branches nationwide!

 The crunch in Korean Chicken Joints are distinctly another best feature of this Korean food. Some would have thick and well-seasoned crust. This is made by soaking chicken in buttermilk. There is also thin, crackly and transparent crust that is dipped in very thin batter. Most would describe this food as irresistibly hot, sweet, saucy and tender yet crunchy. Another Korean food must eat!

 

Korean Chicken Joints are best to eat with rice. But what if you don’t like rice? Side dishes like pickled radish and a bottle of beer turns out to be the perfect combination. Korean food are indeed a must try.

 What are you waiting for? Don’t allow yourself to crave longer. Try Korean Chicken Joints at the nearest place you can find.

A Woman's Favorite Pizza Chain in Metro Manila

Since I am a foodie, it’s impossible not to include pizza in my favorites. Of course, nobody can’t deny the fact that the smell of a newly-cooked pizza is just enough to make us crave and grab one. With its sticky parmesan cheese, juicy toppings and Italian smoked flavor – this treat is simply mouth-watering! And when it comes to pizza, this chain definitely topped my restaurant list and it’s none other than the Domino’s  Pizza.

Domino’s  Pizza is absolutely the best when it comes to pizza and I will definitely attest to it. They really know everything about pizzas and it’s the very reason why their customers, including me, keep on getting back again and again in their stores. If I am is about to ask by other people on why did it became my favorite above all the other brands of pizzas, considering that this other brands have the most commercials and a lot of promos, well my answer is this: Domino Pizza simply just passed in my standards and take note, with flying colors! So how and why did I arrive with this idea? Well, I simply compared Domino with the other brands of pizza such as the Yellow Cab, Pizza Hut and Shakeys.

First, I compared Domino’s pizza to that of the Yellow Cab. Actually, Yellow Cab pizza has not been on my restaurant list for the best pizzas! First, their service is not that good especially for pizza deliveries. They said that I have to wait 30-45 mins for the delivery, but to my surprise, it took me an hour before they come into my house. Then, the pizza dough is kind of chewy for my taste. It taste as if it is a microwaved pizza available on the groceries.  Domino’s pizza is definitely an opposite of this restaurant, their delivery is just on-time and their pizza’s dough is absolutely baked and taste great, not chewy or saggy.

Then its Domino’s  pizza compared to the Pizza Hut. Domino doesn’t failed to deliver on time and they even get into my house before the 30 mins time frame and my order is in a great condition unlike that of the Pizza Hut when the pizza feels warm and dry on delivery.

And finally, it’s Domino versus Shakeys. The food at Shakeys didn’t impress me as compared to that of the Domino. Shakey’s pasta is so overcooked and their pizza doesn’t have that much toppings and cheeses unlike that of the Domino’s pizza which is obviously topped with different toppings and sprinkled with cheese, generously.

I really have no regrets in making Domino’s  Pizza, the top 1 on my restaurant list.  is really the best and the one that I will surely recommend to others. From their service to their pizza, Domino is still the unbeatable winner.

Fastfood in Metro Manila

Metro Manila is bustling with businessmen, young professionals, laborers, tourists and the like. This high concentration of people in the National Capital Region will work throughout the day. And this requires a huge amount of energy, in consequence food. Most people prefer to dine-out and grab a quick meal as the day goes on. A lot, if not most, will attain their meals through fast food restaurants. The cheaper is usually the better for majority of the populous. A list of restaurants in Manila, particularly fast food restaurants will be vital for those looking for a quick meal in their area.

Jollibee is the homegrown fast food flavor of the Philippines and they are getting stronger each day. They feed everyone from students, laborers to businessmen and professionals. Their menu is attuned to the palate of the Filipinos. They serve macaroni soup, a variety of burgers, fried chicken, burger steak and everything in between. They have also expanded in several countries across the globe being the Philippine flag carrier when it comes to fast food. Jollibee is probably at the top of the list of restaurants in Manila when it comes to fast food service. A decent meal would cost around 100 php.

 Asian cuisine is very popular in the metro. Fast food restaurants like Chicken Bonchon caters to the fried chicken fans. They serve fried chicken in a whole other way. The skin is dry, crispy and flavorful while the meat remains tender and juicy. This Korean themed restaurant also offers kimchi coleslaw, bulgogi rice, fish taco, box meals and dessert. Although a bit pricier compared to other fast food chains, Bonchon has gained a loyal following. A meal would costs around 150 php to 200 php. The extra bucks brings a highly flavorful meal in this restaurant.

 Hamburgers coupled with fries are one of the fastest meals to get and devour. That convenience makes this meal set highly popular in a fast paced life. For those looking to spend a few more minutes to enjoy their meal, Brothers Burger offers some of the best burgers for it’s price point. They pride themselves in serving flame broiled 100% pure beef burgers along with fresh lettuce, tomatoes and oatmeal bun. They have baby Brothers burger to cater to the small in appetite, Brothers burger, double Brothers burger, big brothers burger, Brothers pounder, Brothers lamb burger and black Angus burger. Gourmet burgers are offered during different seasons. Be sure to keep track of their activity and promotions to get the best of their service. A burger meal would cost around 150 php to 300 php.

A list of restaurants in Metro Manila will get the reader somewhere, but the best way to find the best fast food restaurant is to actually try most of them.

Lounges in Tomas Morato Street, Quezon City, Metro Manila

At the heart of Quezon City, you’ll find Tomas Morato which is home to a dizzying array of restaurants, bars, and shops. Anyone who goes for lounges in Tomas Morato will be spoiled with choice, as there’s easily something for every budget and preference. Apart from bars, there are also different karaoke establishments and even spas, easily making Tomas Morato a hub for entertainment and recreation. Filipinos love a good time, and it’s evident with the selection of watering holes of all kinds all over the city. Most of the establishments also offer delicious food, so don’t forget to bring your appetite and wash it down with cocktails, beer, and liquor. Here are some of our recommended bars to check out while in Tomas Morato:

1.    Space Superclub is one of the most popular bars for the young crowd in Quezon City. It’s open from Monday to Saturday, and can be counted on for always having a happening party each night. Space Superclub plays lively dance beats and popular music to get the crowd going each and every night.

2.    The Lounge is another popular party place, which is also reliable for private parties and functions. Guests can choose from a chill-out or club set up, so you can have your choice of either laid-back or lively partying when you’re at the Lounge. The Lounge attracts yuppies and even celebrities who come for their top-quality drinks and bar chow.

3.    If you enjoy live music, drinking, and dancing all night long, don’t forget to check out Guilly’s. It’s renowned in the bars and clubs in Tomas Morato for their fun parties thanks to their in-house DJ’s that know how to get the crowd dancing all night long. Guilly’s also serves authentic Filipino food and deliciously greasy bar chow.

4.    The Cuisiner Brasserie Bistro is a culinary workshop by day, and laid-back bar in the evenings. Count on Cuisiner to serve up tasty French gastronomic treats which you can wash down with a glass from their extensive wine selection. If you feel like something fancy, or are celebrating a birthday or special occasion with your loved ones, check out Cuisiner for a unique dining and drinking experience at lounges in Tomas Morato.

5.    Cerchio Restaurant and Lounge serves a fusion of Asian and Mediterranean cuisine, as well as local and imported drinks. It’s a two-storey lounge that’s ideal for intimate dinners but is also available for private functions and meetings.

Food and Beverage Services in Metro Manila

Food and Beverages Services in Manila refer to services of all food and drinks that is necessary in all kinds of events, gatherings and occasions. The services may include the integration of planning with the event’s theme, the nutrition and religious aspects and other preferences that maybe requested and required.

The services may also include proper serving procedures of the crew like being courteous to customers and assisting to different needs as simple as offering beverage refills. In other restaurant settings, services may also consist of facilitating transaction of the bills.

Sunblest Food and Beverage Mfg. Corp. which was established in 1991 at 26 S.De Jesus St., San Rafael Village, Navotas, M.M., Navotas already catered thousands of clients with their needs. They value each customer and makes sure that every food and beverage is delivered with quality.

Jech Manpower Services Inc. in Sta. Cruz, Manila is proud to boast their food and beverage services team to aid you in your needs. With 11 years of background in the industry, they surely know how to please their clients.

Generally, when a customer enters any restaurant or food lounges, the need should be immediately addressed as to the food or drinks that are available.  Since there are many choices to choose from, you may assist suggesting what special menus are being offered or what the most possible drink that is accessible. These are simple ways to give a food and beverage service but can this proves to be very efficient and welcoming.  A customer is happy if he or she is given the proper attention for their needs.

The interaction between customers in the food and beverage service is really important in any food organization. The quality and promptness on any customer service is a good indication of success in this industry. This kind of business is a fast-paced environment and skills and training in the food and beverage service should be encouraged. A good service means attending efficiently to the needs of a large number of guests all at the same time.  This would reflect of how you run your business and your people.

Almost all food and beverages services in Manila have already been upgraded by attending seminars, short courses and even diploma courses to ensure a competent organization when deciding to engage in similar businesses like the food and beverage.  Since service holds one of the main ingredients, it is therefore a must that you study every aspect of this business.  This is more of a service and people industry thus be ready to face every challenge that you may encounter.

 

Korean Barbecue in Metro Manila List

Korean food is gaining its popularity all over the world and across different ages. Most liked Korean foods aside from kimchi are bibimbap, hotteok (pudding), dbeokbokki (street food), japchae (noodles), tteok (rice cake) and yangnyeon tongdak (fried chicken). On top of these list is Korean barbecues that has been a favourite of everyone, including me.

Korean barbecue is called different names depending on the type of meat and if it is marinated or not. Beef that is marinated is called Bulgogi or Galbi while Ansim gui is the name for non-marinated tenderloin.  Derunsim gui is the non-marinated sirloin. Likewise, marinated pork is called Dwaeji bulgogi whereas non-marinated unsalted bacon is known as Samgyeopsal. For chicken, Dak galbi is the dish for marinated barbecues and Dak gui is for non-marinated ones.

Korean food such as their barbecues are commonly known as Gogigui in Korea. It particularly refers to roasted meat. It can either be chicken, pork or beef that is served on charcoal grills, gas grills or portable stoves on top of the dining table.  This setup itself makes the experience of eating Korean barbecues more appetizing and indulging. Bulgogi, the most common type of Gogigui, is the most well-served Korean barbecue dish in every restaurant in Korea. It s made from tenderloin or beef sirloin that is thinly sliced and marinated. Beef short ribs are a tasty alternative as well. 

Do you wonder how Bulgogi is prepared? To serve a scrumptious Korean barbecue, marinate meat with sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, pepper and garlic. The longer the meat is marinated, the more flavourful it will be after cooking. The meat would also come out very tender, almost a melt-in the mouth. Can you imagine that? Bulgogi is then grilled in perforated griddles or pan-cook. On the other hand, Galbi is prepared the same way as Bulgogi but with water, sugar and sliced onions. It is mostly cooked in charcoal or burned wood chips. 

Over the web, there are a lot of Korean barbecues recipe you can find. Would that be very interesting to try? But if you don’t have much time and can’t wait to taste Korean barbecues, some of the restaurants that you can visit are Seoul Korean BBQ Restaurant in Silverdale Way, Washington, Soowon Galbi KBBQ Restaurant in Los Angeles, Sariwon’s Bulgogi and Galbi Korean Restaurant in Quezon City, Philippines, Jang Soo Kang Korean BBQ Restaurant in Cerritos, California and Korean Manna BBQ Restaurant in Lauderhill, Florida. So what are you waiting for? Bring your family and friends to any of this place or set-up a Korean cuisine for lunch or dinner. Everyone will surely end up full and happy.

Listings
Korean Restaurants in Metro Manila

Great Places to Eat in Intramuros, Manila

If there’s something Intramuros is known for other than its historical significance, it is the fact that it the home of the most popular fine dining restaurants in Manila. Thus, Intramuros is a top destination for history-lovers and food-lovers alike since in this walled city, a story is told in every alley and every restaurant.

The historical Intramuros has already caught up with the times as even fast food chains such as Jollibee, Chow King, and McDonald’s can be found in the place. There is even a really quaint Starbuck’s coffee in the area as well. But despite of all these popular restaurants, it is the classic Filipino diners in the walled city that draws food enthusiasts like me.

Among the traditional Filipino restaurants in the area, I love Ilustrado the most. It is one of the older fine dining restaurants in Manila having been founded over 19 years ago. This place offers quite an extensive wine list which makes you feel like you are a royalty. The phone is also pretty good and I really like their Canadian Maple Glazed US Baby Back Ribs. While some of the menu offerings have already been modernized by western influences, the ambiance of the restaurant stays true to its Filipino heritage. I especially like the feeling that when you step inside the restaurant, you feel like you are travelling back in time during the Spanish era.

I also love Barbara’s located at General Luna Street of the Intramuros. The place is absolutely picture-perfect and you just can’t help but go up and down the elegant staircase as though you are making a grand entrance or exit. I also love the grand chandeliers that make you feel that you are in one of the most luxurious fine dining restaurants in Manila. I also appreciate the fact that Barbara’s do not impose their meals on their customers. Customers can actually order a la carte via the plated meals menu or they can also choose the kind of buffet they wish to avail.

While not exactly an old restaurant in Intramuros, I also love dining at 9 spoons at the Bayleaf because of the picturesque view of the Intramuros Golf Course and the skyline of Manila. In this restaurant you get to experience a different view of the Intramuros – not by walking on the cobblestone pavements but by looking over from the time. It is also a great experience to sight-see and eat at the same time, especially when what is in your plate is the very tasty bagnet and callos.

 

 

Check this out:

Historic Manila

THE BAYLEAF's 9 Spoons, Sky Deck, and Cioccolata Food Trip

Bars and Clubs: Eastwood Lounges

Eastwood has been quite the surprise for me.  I remember heading over there in 2000 to see one or two buildings, the cradle of the burgeoning call center industry back in the day.  These buildings were soon joined by low rise buildings holding the biggest concentration of bars and clubs at the time.  Now, Eastwood is a full fledged mini city in Quezon City.

Here are picks to lounge around after a hard day's work or a weekend change of scenery, whatever you feel like doing, Eastwood offers a lot of choices.

A classic in Eastwood is Jack's Loft which began as a coffee shop with cake that quickly evolved to be the first pillar of Eric Cua's empire, yep, Embassy then eventually Repuliq and Opus, the  country's biggest clubs all began from Jack's loft and this was the first of several.

There is the Eden Night Club and Garden Lounge that has quite the high tech sound system and light show and Venom Shooters Bar, a cocktail lounge that offers the widest selection of shots and cocktail variations.   

The Distillery is a very famous bar, pub and lounge which has branches in different areas.   The Distillery has a wide array of imported beers, delectable cocktail drinks, whiskey and most of the usual libations one seeks to unwind on a weekend or after a tough day at work. 

 

Need more drink places ideas?  Check out Bar Fly!

Various alcoholic beverages in the Philippines like the local craft beer craze is a new experience for some people. This is a local organic product offered by bars or liquor stores. The Philippine crafted beer has the unique and distinct taste of real beers that you can’t find anywhere else. For beer lovers, this is a welcoming treat. Some owners and producers of crafted beers are also showcasing these organic product in organic trade shows held in different areas like Metro Manila.

The term “craft beer” means beers that are crafted by master brewers, investing plenty of time and exerting more effort to attain the perfect taste of this product. The amount of ingredients is meticulously measured to get the perfect taste for a beer. In actual observation, only a very small percentage of the beer market makes up this type of alcoholic beverage in the Philippines compared to large companies. In reality, advertisements and leverage makes up in the popularity of particular brand of beers.

In Bacolod City, Bogs Brew is one of the famous local craft beers. This is a manufacturer that is rather independent, conventional and quite small.  This beer has become so popular and interesting that some bars and even restaurants already sell this product alongside their dishes. This crafted beer has a local muscovado sugar and spring waters that are an excellent change from the usual beers in the market. The flavor is strikingly different yet it is exotic and unique on its own.
If you want to discover new things, try experimenting on different alcoholic beverage in the Philippines like the local craft beers. There are still many exciting and surprising things you can find and realize in beers. Other great craft brewery includes Great Island Craft Brewery in Paranaque and Pivo Praha in Makati City. You may not know this yet but you can check your internet or friends who love local craft beers as well. Katipunan Kraft Ales offer one of the best craft beers you have ever tasted, the Indio Pale Ale.

 Local Crafted beers can also be available on different favorite places in the Philippines where tourists and locals go on vacays. It is quite fascinating exploring new things and savoring fresh discoveries like the new taste of local craft beers. For those who have not yet experience beers on an exotic note, try one.  Local crafted beers are just as delightful as the many beautiful places in the Philippines.

To get listings on more alcoholic beverages in Metro Manila click the link.

Makati Restaurant List

It is the food which draws people together. For local and foreign tourists, foodies are a way to explore a new place. Dining out around Makati is not a concern at all. There are a lot of places to have a delicious gastronomic delight around this part of the metro. There is a long list of restaurants inManila which are perfect for those who would want to savor the flavors of Makati.

Here are some of the most notable places and food establishments when one is around Makati area:

One of the most posh places to dine in Makati would be the Makati Shangri-La Manila. This is an excellent place for dining with a wide variety of dishes to offer their customers. It is the beautiful combination of Western and Asian flavors which makes the food stuffs offered at this restaurant to be extremely flavorful and unique.

Another nifty place to visit while in Makati is the People’s Place. This is a trendy and modern type of resto which serves Thai cuisine which are deliciously exotic. It has an al fresco bar which can be a perfect venue for a quick gulp of drinks after a long day of work and play. For those who are food lovers, it will be a perfect choice to try out on their signature dishes which include Prawn Spring Rolls, Pomelo Salad and Chicken wrapped in with the aromatic pandan leaves.  Tea lovers will surely love to take a sip of the People’s Place very own version of this popular warm concoction

If it is Indian food you are craving for, the Queens Crystal Garden Restaurant is the choice for you.  This is a fusion of Singaporean, Indian and Indonesian flavors which are blended with a twist for an exotic taste. For those vegans, they have 80 dishes to delight you. 170 dishes are offered for non-vegan in the house. Beef and pork are not served in this restaurant. This is one perfect place to dine for vegetarians. Queens Crystal Garden Restaurant is one of the very best in the list of restaurants in manila which offer vegetables in their dishes.

The Tivoli is on luxury and elegant resto which is found at the Mandarin Oriental in Manila. This food establishment has extremely gorgeous interior designs complete with trellises and gorgeous mirrors to add a different sense of vibe into the venue.  The famous dishes served in this resto would include pan fried sea bass, braised wagyu beef and yummy Lobster bisque with cream. It has a very intimate and cozy alcove which is perfect for those who would want personal and private dinners with a romantic ambience.

The Tin Hau is another restaurant in Makati which is designed with exquisite antique bricks along with their china cutlery for dining. The warm and welcoming ambience of this place draws in a lot of visitors. This is one of the best in the list of restaurants in manila which would allow their clientele to savor the delicious taste of seafood and Chinese dishes altogether.

 

Breakfast Restaurant List in Metro Manila

They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but if you're a busy bee or a night owl, you might not get to eat any breakfast. But if still want to grab some breakfast meals although not necessarily in the morning during breakfast time, here are the list of restaurants in Manila which serves breakfast meals all day.

Pancake House. By the name alone, you can be sure that you will be able to grab some pancakes at any time of the day. But they do not just serve pancakes; they also offer several Filipino breakfast meals such as Tapa and Bangus which is perfect for I can’t survive without eating rice.

Heaven 'n Eggs is also on my list of restaurants in Manila which serves all day breakfast. Why? Because their menu is essentially a breakfast menu with the various selection of breakfast meals from American breakfast steak to tapsilog; from pancakes to adobo flakes. I also recommend that you visit their restaurant during the hours when they serve breakfast buffet.

And what is breakfast without coffee? That is why Figaro is also included in my list of restaurants in Manila which serves the best breakfast. Aside from their barako coffee to perk you up, they also serve Filipino breakfast such as Marinated Bangus, Beef Tapa, Skinless Longanisa, Scrambled Egg, and the like.

Tapa King is also another restaurant which offers all-day breakfast at an affordable price. And their specialty of course is Tapa! It is not the Tapa or the meat alone that makes the meal so palatable. In fact it is the sauce that makes their Tapa really flavorful. With meals roughly at the same price range as that of Tapa King, Rufo’s is also a strong contender for an all-day breakfast place. They offer a bunch of “silog” or sinangag (fried rice) and itlog (egg) in their menu but they are famous for their Tapsilog which comes with a perfect sauce. Another really good Tapsilog place which is friendly on the budget is Rodics. Rodics’ rendition of Tapsilog is different from its competitors because their Tapa looks more like corned beef.

Last but not the least, I also recommend that Kanto Freestyle Breakfast be included in your own list of all-day breakfast places. They offer gourmet breakfast at an affordable price. I highly recommend their Batangas Tapa, Lucban Longanisa as well as their fluffy pancakes, especially their mixed berry pancake.

The five big Fastfood Chains in the Philippines

Well, who doesn't love fastfood sometimes?  I have to admit that I probably eat fastfood at least five times a week on average just because its convenient and the price is right.  In case you are new to Manila these are what you can expect almost everywhere.

McDonald’s. Mcdo as Filipinos fondly call it is an international fast food chain which has captured the the taste buds of the Filipinos. They are very famous for their burgers and chicken. They also have cheaper offerings such as the Crispy Chicken Fillet which costs 45 pesos. They also have a reasonable delivery fee of 40 pesos and they have no minimum order required before they deliver you their food.

Jollibee. As Mcdo’s close competitor, Jollibee also makes it to my list of restaurant in Manila which offers fast food. What I love about Jollibee is that they understand the Filipino palate quite well and that they tweak their menu to suit the way of life of the Filipinos. Personally, I really like their Lumpiang Shanghai and their Burger Steak. Jollibee also has cheaper offerings for those who are on a tight budget – the 39ers which cost 39 pesos.

Chowking. Chowking is perhaps the most popular Chinese fastfood restaurant made famous by their dumplings and lauriat meals. This is perfect for Chinese food lover on-the-go. Whenever I dine at their restaurants, I always order Tofu or Kangkong to make my meal a bit healthier.

KFC. Kentucky Fried Chicken is also another internationally known brand which has penetrated the Philippine Market. They’re fried chicken is famous in the country. Although KFC originated from the US, they understand the market very well and they know that Filipinos are looking for a good value for their money which is why they offered their streetwise meal. Another uniquely Filipino KFC experience is how KFC “taught” its customers to treat the gravy as their soup.

Burger King. Burger King also one of my favourite fast food restaurants because of their mouth-watering burgers. What makes me love Burger all the more is their free wifi connection as well as their charging station – perfect fast food place for the techie Filipinos.

Looking for numbers and locations?  Click the restaurant directory.

Bang for the Buck, Buffet Restaurants

Filipinos are such great food lovers that Buffet Restaurants are such a treat to us.  Since buffet restos are the typical eat-all-you can type of serving dishes, people flock in these places to experiences the variety of Filipino food offered.  The Kamayan Restaurant, offers a Filipino tradition of eating buffet style which highlights different specialties of various regions in the country.

Eating buffet style is also a value for your money.  You can enjoy tasting and eating almost all the dishes that you love, repeatedly, even in large portions without any additional cost.  You go home fully satisfied and happy all at the same time, that you get to eat new and exciting recipes.  If you are quite adventurous and a traveler, out-of-town restaurants like the My Pot located in Antipolo wherin you pay a measly P100 only for an eat-all-you can experience. 

More classy restaurants like Saisaki and Cabalen offers exotic and delicably tasty buffets.  Some have choices ranging from Chinese cuisine, Japanese and even European.  The real advantage of these buffets aside from the choices of different dishes and the price is the quick service.  Sometimes we do not have the luxury of time waiting for the food to be cooked and served. This is just convenient especially to busy people who are always in a hurry.

At other times, ambience also play an important role in buffet restaurants, it can affect one’s appetite. There are people who want magnificent dining even though the place is a buffet restaurant. In addition, there are also people who concentrate more on the variety of Filipino foods rather than the ambience.  Whichever way it is these restaurants definitely should have the best of the two worlds, meaning good food and good place.

So if you are looking for the best variety of Filipino foods around, you may ask your friends for those places you have not gone yet, or even check the internet.  Buffet restaurants are also good for bonding with the family, since you tend to enjoy sharing and discussing the flavors of these dishes.   Good places are packed with a customer which means fine foods are being served there.  But beware.  Some restaurants offer very low quality of food, and you might be caught unaware.  You can find buffet restaurants who may offer simpler Filipino foods yet quality is not sacrificed.  It is alright to choose from simpler foods as long as they taste delicious as they should be. 

Look at the Food Selection

Let us say for example that you have found a great buffet restaurant with a nice luxurious ambiance and good traffic.  Now, your search will be meaningless if they have low quality food selection.  For this reason, you should also take a look at their food selection, too.  Fortunately, there are buffet restaurants in the Internet that can help you narrow down your search.  Customers who have dined at the buffet restaurants provide testimonials not only about the place but most especially about the food selection as well.  This way, you will get your money’s worth when you visit the place.  Remember, the more food choices offered in the buffet restaurant, the better.

Baguio, the Summer Capital of the Philippines

Hurry to the city of pines and summer Capital of the Philipines, Baguio City! Travel packages offered by Asia Light and Wow Philippines Travel Agency ranges from P3000 to P6000 which includes tours around the city. It is a favorite summer destination to escape the heat of the sun.

The Mansion is the summer residence of the Philippine’s President, one of the most photographed places. The entrance gate is said to be the replica of the Buckingham Palace in London. Inside the Mansion is a museum housing memorabilia of former presidents. Philippine marines are manning the guardhouse at the vicinity of the entry gate.

Mines View Park on travel package is a big must. The observation deck of the park offers a breathtaking and panoramic view of the valley and mountains of Benguet. It is also where you can be treated to a spectacular view of Benguet’s abandoned gold and copper mines and the beautiful contours of the Cordillera mountain region.  Gone were the boys in Igorot costume by the cliff.

Ideal for picnic and macro photography is the Panagbenga Park with a lot of flowers, plants, totem poles and butterflies. Visit the butterfly sanctuary.

Included on a travel package is Camp John Hay, a must-visit with charm of its pine tree-lined roads, beautiful landscaping, quaint cottages and wide open. Drop by their Liberty Park, Bell Amphitheater, Igorot Garden and Cemetery of Negativism. Enjoy at the camp’s leisure facilities of non-stop fun through paintball, rappelling, mini golf, children’s playground and eco-trail hiking.

Visit Tam Awan Village, nestled on a steep side of the mountain was built with native huts with the purpose of showing how a local villages looks like. Traditional authentic huts upland recreates a typical ethnic Ifugao village.

Travel packages include accommodation at Hotel Veniz, perfect for budget travelers because of its central location to almost everywhere. Try Golden Pine at the heart of the city with luxurious suites and elegant superior. Another is The Manor, not only distinguished by its impressive architecture and cozy interiors, but also blessed with an environment. It provides a magnificent view of the Cordillera mountain range. Here, one can literally open windows to cool, fresh air.

Complete the Baguio experience with a souvenir photo with the famous lion’s head along Kennon Road, an undisputed landmark. Bring home “sundot kulangot” the most popular pasalubong from Baguio. It is a sweet packed in small round thin shells, eaten by using a stick in scooping it. Another is the peanut brittle, crispy and chunky caramelized sugar with peanuts. And strawberries you picked at the Strawberry Farm in the nearby La Trinidad Valley.

Where to Buy Beer in Manila

Local Beer and Where to Buy Them

Beer is considered as one of the most frenzied alcoholic beverages in the Philippines. In fact, the country is the 23rd largest beer market in the world. On average, a Filipino would drink 20 liters of beer each year.

Looking for a local beer in the Philippines can be as easy as buying your favorite soda. There are two major breweries in the country—Asia Brewery and San Miguel Corporation, which produces San Miguel Pale Pilsen, one of the most popular local beers in the Philippines. Here are some places where you can get your favorite beer:

Local Grocery Stores

Local grocery stores can provide a good selection of alcoholic beverages in the Philippines. If you don’t know which brand of beer to buy, it helps to ask the people around you. You are sure to get a good answer from any Filipino you meet.  It is easy to find a local grocery store anywhere in the Philippines, especially if you are within Metro Manila or other major cities in the country. Even if you are in a far-flung area, local beers can be bought from small retail stores.

Pubs/Bars/Clubs

If you want to enjoy a good beer during the night, going to a bar or club is your best bet. In fact, many bars provide a wide selection of local beers. However, they may come at a higher price as compared to the ones you can find in local grocery stores.

Specialty Beer Stores

Although rare and a little harder to find, there are specialty beer stores that offer a decent selection of alcoholic beverages in the Philippines. What’s great about them is that not only can you find local beers but imported beers as well.

Check out this craft beer pub.

Restaurants

Although not all restaurants in the Philippines serve beer, there are many that do. Your choices may be limited, but this depends on the kind of restaurant you are in. If you happen to visit one, ask the restaurant personnel if they serve beer to their customers and order to your heart’s desire.

 

Budget Hotels in Quezon City, Metro Manila. Philippines

Quezon City is one of the most dynamic areas of Metropolitan Manila, and is a melting pot of people from all walks of life. There are hundreds of artsy shops, quaint restaurants, hole-in-the-wall establishments, and quirky cafes that add character to Quezon City. The city is named after former Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon, and it was even the Philippine’s capital during the years 1946 to 1972.

More travelers are discovering the numerous attractions that Quezon City has to offer, and the growth of budget hotels has risen dramatically. Experiencing the eclectic, indie vibe of the city doesn’t have to hurt your wallet; read on below to see some recommended budget hotels.

1.       The Orange Place Hotel, located at 26 Kamias Road has standard, fan rooms, family rooms, and budget queen rooms for travelers visiting alone or with companions. The rooms are equipped with basic amenities and have wooden furniture, while the hotel has a restaurant serving affordable local fare.

2.       Dangay Suites Apartment at 99-A Dangay Street in Project 7, has rooms which can be rented out daily or monthly. The compound has two buildings with 3 storeys each, housing 15 homey apartments. What originally started out as monthly rentals for local families, Dangay Suites transformed into a transient home catering to local and international travelers in 2009. There are daily and monthly rates for occupancies ranging from 1 to 8 persons, and room amenities at Dangay include utilities, water, cable television, private bathroom, and air-conditioning.

3.       Sir Williams Hotel is also a home alternative to budget hotels in Quezon City. It’s located at 39 Timog Avenue, just a 5 minute walk from shops and restaurants in the area. Sir Williams offers 7 types of rooms, from basic standard rooms to a one bedroom suite to accommodate travelers looking for cheap hotels. Each room features a 21 inch flat screen television, air conditioner, hair dryer, and telephone.

4.       Mariposa Budget Hotel in Cubao is one of the hotels in the Mariposa group that are known for offering quality budget accommodation in Manila. It is conveniently located within the Araneta Commercial Center, and offers guests a choice between Mega and Deluxe rooms. Each  air-conditioned room comes with LCD television, private bath, hot and cold shower.

5.       Stonehouse Bed and Breakfast at 1315 E. Rodriguez Avenue is a charming accommodation option in Quezon City. Guests can choose from 9 different room types, each of which is equipped with private bath, air conditioning, wireless internet access, and cable television. Daily newspapers are also available for guests who want to read up on the latest local news at Stonehouse. The hotel is also equipped with a business center, jazz bar, and restaurant, making Stonehouse Bed and Breakfast one of the top choices for budget accommodation in Quezon City.

Bars and Clubs in Ortigas Center, Pasig

For those who are looking for the best places to unwind and just get a conversation over a cold bottle of beer, there are plenty of bars and clubs in the Philippines. Ortigas is one of the most urbanized areas in Manila. This is a place for commerce and business where various people are on the look for after-work fun and rendezvous with friends and booze.

There are a lot of clubs which are worth trying while you are in Ortigas.  These clubs can provide the best beers and drinks alongside the perfect ambience for a relaxing moment with your friends and peers. Here are some of the best places to unwind which are dubbed to be included in the list of the best bars and clubs in the Philippines:

Ortigas has the very urbanized City Golf Plaza Compound which has all the best resto, clubs and bars in the area. The Barcino is a nifty place for people who would want to eat Spanish dishes and wines. One can find the best liquors such as white and red wine to pair up with a sumptuous meal.
Another place to visit for the best experience of food and drinks is the Locale Gastrobar. This food establishment can serve gourmet dishes to satisfy their guests. The best food stuff which is being served here would include nachos, truffle pizza and foie gras burger. Another addition to this wide array of food is a bottle of good beer and concoction of drinks to enjoy. 

If one would want a real night fun, The Reserve is one club to reckon. This is just located across the Locale Gastrobar and Barcino. This is a nice place to relax with a drink. The Reserve is a liquor lounge which gets too crowded during the weekend when a lot of patrons and guests would flock to enjoy the music and excellent customer service. Make a reservation before going to the bar to ensure a nifty spot for the night.

For those who would want to enjoy the booze in Ortigas, Bugsy’s Bar & Bistro is a top pick. A lot of the guests going to this night spot would adore the drinks and food. Fish and chips go well with beer and that is one of the most satisfying treat to have while at Bugsy’s. It is their yummy buffalo wings which are perfect pair for a bottle of beer with lots of fun.

Borough is one of the best bars and clubs in the Philippines located at Ortigas. This bar is located at the Podium Mall which provides the best New York style food with the best cold beer in town. The place is quite small which cannot cater all the patrons who flock during the weekend.

Metrowalk is a haven for bar hoppers with the premeiere bars and clubs in the Philippines. This is place where a lot of bars and clubs are found. There are Club Phi Restobar, Aruba Bar and Restaurant and Decades Bar alongside Elbow Room and Dencio’s Bar.

Food and Beverage Services in Manila

Filipinos are known worldwide for their love for good food and fun occasions.  Parties are all over town every now and then like birthdays, debuts, weddings, anniversary celebrations, and even fiestas.  These special occasions are never ignored by Filipinos, thus certain preparations are being made to ensure thorough enjoyment by all.  Putting up scrumptious dishes is always the top priority of the host.  Ensuring that all guests will have their fill and satisfied with the delicious foods is very vital when throwing a party.

Thus, a lot of food and beverage services in Manila are now out in the market.  Catering businesses are proliferating in the metro to answer the growing demand in supplying foods and beverages for those who badly need their expertise and assistance.  They continue to evolve to keep up with the constant demand of the clienteles.  Innovative ideas are being offered to liven up the party, with huge selection of dishes available to suit everyone’s palates. Whatever your event is, maybe it be just a simple gathering or a grand occasion, there’s certainly a nice caterer to fill in your needs for an awesome party.
That is why a lot of business-oriented people are venturing into this industry.  Starting a catering business however is not as easy as it may look. One has to invest not only his money, but also his time and overwhelming skills in cooking and dealing with customers.
The very fundamental factor one has to consider before starting in this field is having reliable and efficient catering equipment and supplies.  Being knowledgeable of the best suppliers in the metro is also a must.  It is but elementary to arm yourself with the bests if you want your business to succeed.  The type of occasion you want to assist is very important in choosing your catering equipment.  Always pick materials that can serve both formal and informal events to spare you of additional expenses, and you will be able to meet the strains of your customers as well. The must-haves of a catering business include dinner wares, silverwares, glass wares, serving plates, serving trays, cake stands, champagne fountains, chocolate fountains, banquet carts, table skirts, and food warmers.  Have a complete set of cooking utensils and equipment at the same time for a more reliable cooking facility such as a whole set of butchery cutlery, pots and pans, appliances for steaming, broiling or grilling, and storing.  Another vital requirement in the catering industry is having a dependable means of transportation.  Some guests may require you to cater in distant venues; thereby your automobile should ensure safety for your materials.
Establishing a good working relationship with your personnel and suppliers is also the key factor to make your business thrive longer.  Having skilled and efficient staff plays a significant part in your success.  This is one of the secrets of most of the successful food and beverage services in Manila along with quality and excellent service.

Fruits are one of the healthiest and most natural food sources we have so it is to no surprise the juices are a good way to go when choosing a drink. A beverages list in the Philippines may contain a lot of alcoholic beverages but surely, there are also as many juice options in there. As a tropical country, the juice bars and restaurants in the Philippines are able to offer fruit shakes and juices that may not be readily or consistently available in other countries, and for a very reasonable price. Mango and banana are two of the most popular flavors but options like dragon fruit, carrot-mango, and coconut are also available. If you are looking for non-alcoholic beverages, then juice bars are your best bet for delicious drinks to quench your thirst.

 If you have no time to look around yourself, here is a beverages list that does not contain any alcoholic beverages in the Philippines. This list consists of one hundred percent non-alcoholic beverages and is a good read for health buffs and foodies alike.

 Fruit Magic has a wide range of options in their menu. From Blueberry Burst to Green Mango, you can have your pick of berries, tropical, fruits, and even vegetables. It is easy to stay fit with fruit magic because the company and its employees take it upon themselves to promote a healthy lifestyle and advocate a healthy way of living for everyone. Fruit Magic is known for it’s juices but the juice bar takes it a step further and offers healthy food that can help everyone steer clear from unhealthy fast food chains.  It has over seventy branches in and outside Metro Manila, including ones ten SM Supermalls (Mall of Asia, Southmall, Megamall, SM City Cebu, etc.), three Robinsons malls (Galleria, Robinson’s Place Pioneer), and nine Ayala malls (Glorietta 4, Market!Market, TriNoma, Ayala Center Cebu, etc.)

Big Chill is another well-known juice bar in the Philippines. Present in countless branches in the Philippines including Glorietta, Shangri-la, Subic Harbour Point, Robinson’s Galleria, Eastwood, Greenhills, and Alabang Town Center, you are ensured to have a taste of their refreshing beverages. You can even opt to have special add-ons to your drink like vitamin C and Whey powder.

 The newest out of the three, Jamba Juice, a juice bar hailing from California was brought to the Philippines in 2011 and revitalized the Filipinos’ craze for fruit juices. The juice bar that consists of six different types of beverages and food on their menu including classic smoothies, all fruit smoothies, creamy smoothies, steel cut oatmeal, fresh squeezed juice, fruit & yogurt parfait, and California flatbreads & wraps brings the much loved California juice bar experience to the Philippines. You can visit Jamba Juice at Robinson’s Place Manila, Robinson’s Magnolia, SM Megamall, SM City North EDSA, SM Mall of Asia, Alabang Town Center, and Bonifacio High Street. 

 

Other takes on Juice Bars?  Mochasoya

Juice bar listings

 

Do Your Travelling Pants Have Shallow Pockets? 10 Things To Do In Downtown Manila

Pumping up your get-up-and-go feet around the neighborhood of Manila having a quality time with family and friends with a budget travel is a big plus. Go the extra mile with these suggestions.

 

1.     Explore Intramuros and witness the preservation of our cultural heritage inside the 64-hectare stones which withstood wars and successive waves of colonial invaders. Visit Fort Santiago and see the WW2 underground tunnels, the final footsteps of Rizal embedded in bronze, and the museum that exhibits Philippine History. Have a heavenly break at San Agustin Church or the Manila Cathedral. Experience a kalesa ride along  the streets of Intramuros and a lunch at nearby colonial-style villas.

 

2.     Mix and mix a “halo-halo”.  This favorite Pinoy merienda best fits our sunny weather, mostly in demand during summer. Halo-halo is a mouth-watering and refreshing creation of shaved ice, evaporated milk, mixed up with sweetened beans, sliced bananas, nata de coco, sago, gulaman, leche flan, ube and yema. Don't forget to top it off with a scoop of ice cream with a wafer stick.

 

3.     At the SM Mall of Asia By the Bay, a cross breed of nature and modern city, experience a bird’s eye view of the great sunset of the Manila Bay. On hand is a budget travel because new attractions will surely draw crowds with their zipline, amusement park, The Road Train; and featuring the MOA Eye that gives a view of the bay area inside air-conditioned gondolas with see-through windows. It also highlights pyromusical fireworks. Live bands and restaurant bars are scattered by the bay.

 

4.     Movie marathon at SM Cinema Movie Fiesta for only P25. Watch movies dating back around 6 months to 2 years from their showing.

 

5.     A family get-together is worth the while at the the hustle and bustle of Luneta. Apart from its grassy expanse and the Rizal Monument, it features a planetarium, fountains, children’s playground, Chinese Garden, Orchidarium, Butterfly Pavilion, and an amphitheatre.

 

6.     Star City! Have a roller coaster ride at Star Flyer and experience a throbbing yet wonderful stomach pain at Surf Dance, Wild River, Viking, etc. Newest attractions include the Star Frisbee and the Giant Wheel. Be scared to death by the horror houses, be frozen at Winter Fun Land, and be amazed by circus shows. Play amusement games of all sorts, and win prizes.

 

7.     168 Mall is the home of Filipino shoppers and paradise of wholesalers. P1000 of budget travel will bring you a newest fashion trend from top to bottom plus a bag and accessories. Rows of stalls, bargains, local bazaars, it just offers “everything under the sun”.

 

8.     Street food! Turon, mangga with bagoong, isaw, kwek-kwek, fish ball, squid ball, calamares, balut, etc. is what a Manilenyo would crave for every 4PM. The luscious and delectable taste of hepatitis B completes our appetite with the mouth-watering sago’t gulaman.

 

9.     Physical fitness? Breathe fresh air in a forest inside the city at the UP Diliman Campus. Walk, jog, run and bike around the oval, Sunken Garden and the UP Oblation, avoiding the temptation of the Ikot-Toki as you roam around the vicinity. After, taste their best-seller grilled isaw to complete your UP trip.

 

10.   After UP, why not try UST? The 400-year-old oldest university in Asia has 4 National Cultural Treasures: The Main Building, Arch of the Centuries, Central Seminary, and Grandstand. Other landmarks include the bronze statue Quattromondial, Quadricentennial Square, Benavides Park, and the Rosarium, a peaceful rosary garden.

 

For more ideas check out this travel guide.