Haven't been in Manila for a while but this spot deserves your attention. If you're in the mood for live entertainment, pretty sick DJ's, awesome music, food, drinks, and a great time, you should take the trip to 615 General Malvar Street in Malate, Manila to see SHINMA MALATE.
It's the hottest club this side of town. They've got well crafted cocktails and good bar food cooked ala minute. With several VIP tables, lounge chairs and bar tables, you can get those special occasions celebrated properly with a party. I haven't seen a place in this area that has got state of the art lights and sound system, something that could rival some of the biggest bars in Quezon City or nearby areas.
Changing the Entertainment Landscape in Manila
Malate is iconic, but in recent years it has been witness to obvious reduction in entertainment establishments. There is a need for places like SHINMA MALATE that could accommodate folks that need it in different price points, and they've addressed this quite nicely. It gives a different energy, as it is well designed, perfect for foreign nationals who would like to have Manila as a destination to party!
There were several DJ's during their opening night, one of which is female DJ Dead Niccss plus a multitude of local rappers who made sure folks have extraordinary music to dance along to. Kapuso actors also came to the event including owner Kimson Tan, his friends Kim Perez, Jay Arcilla, Brent Valdez and popular loveteam Sofia Pablo and Allen Ansay.
Might I suggest their Rosé wines, their huge Fruit Platter, Fried Chicken and Pizza. It's serving size is good for groups, mostly bar chow so have dinner before you get to SHINMA MALATE. They also have several house dancers who would entertain you to start the show. They also have KPOP dance nights, other surprise performers for different nights. They do play popular music, but mostly those that have been engineered well by the DJ's, so you get a different take with it.
You've got a lot of things to enjoy at SHINMA MALATE. It's time you have a very fun night in Malate, Manila if you are a little bored of other cities. I remember how I enjoyed our time there. Now head on to SHINMA for more fun nights!
Do you have a specific memory of your interaction with Alden Richards? I do, let me tell you about it before I start this story.
He was already popular at that time, and as a blogger covering his events, it was doubly hard for me to separate work and being a fanboy of sorts. I was also super shy to ask for photos with him as some part of my brain think it's unethical (in some way, I think it still is).
Security was tight, and I've wanted to ask him for a simple video greet for my twin cousins in the US who were even more die hard fans of this boy. I quickly asked him and he obliged, but he got called to go out for photos.
Since this is was an event, he was asked to go outside for more pictures. He went out and I thought, oh... it's not gonna happen anymore because he was being asked to go out too after the event. He stopped mid way and went back inside because he remembered that I asked for a favor. He gave me a short smile, and did the video greeting I asked for, I never forgot that moment. My cousins and I were so happy of course!
See, there are tons of these small things happening in between press conferences and fan meets, but I can tell from the times I've been able to talk to him.. that he is genuinely a very nice and kind person. I'm sure a LOT of people would say the same. Why is he blessed? Why is he so successful? I think his kindness and selflessness plays a BIG part of it.
Alden's personal friend Father Jeff officiated the thanksgiving mass at his new bar, STARDUST
The successful shows and subsequent movies tells how much he's adored by many. He's also got a film this month for the Metro Manila Film Festival 2023 with the one and only Megastar Ms. Sharon Cuneta called "FAMILY OF TWO" and we're all raring to watch it. It'll be shown in theaters on Christmas Day, make sure you support him by watching the film. It's got lots of scenes where you'll find comfort, as it talks more about FAMILY, relationships, and you won't have a dry eye in sight.
A few days ago, he invited us for lunch at STARDUST (located at 58 Jupiter Street in Makati). This is a thanksgiving event, a thing he does annually. It's an opportunity to talk to him, so of course I went. He's always done this for different people, and a lot of fans think we're not worthy, I understand, but he really wanted to do this for us (I felt that). We didn't even know that HE owned the place... yes, this is Alden Richards very own bar. He's got some private partners, but bares they are somehow his mentors who wants to teach him the ropes in running businesses. In a way, he's diversifying his portfolio... and we're certain, this will be a good place to go and have fun in the evenings.
STARDUST is pretty nice. It's got comfy velvet laden seats, bar stools and tables where you can park a few drinks on a single night. The bar is huge, and the variety of drinks they serve is equally humongous. They have specials (which your bartender can serve), and food is marvelous. The display reminds me of a galaxy, with lit LED's in a dark sky, you'll feel like you're in space after a drink or two. It definitely feels cozy, I could reckon it being like a speakeasy and perhaps, a little bougie. The lights reflect much on the wall, the lobby laden mirrors and the disco balls in different sizes. It was monochrome heaven, and the glistening lights are not bothersome, you just feel relaxed, and be in the opportune time to listen to music.
Speaking of which, Alden shares how they have spent much of their capital with sound equipment. The bar can actually project sound quite loud, but not bother any of your conversations. So if you're amongst friends, peers or family in this place, you don't have to shout. That's some technology applied in acoustics, and that's something they wanted to do in this place. It's a plus in my dictionary.
Here's our full interview with Alden Richards which happened right after the thanksgiving event he held for the press:
I'd like to take this bit and say THANK YOU to Alden Richards for always being so nice whenever we see each other. Same goes to Sam, Ms. Roche and the entire SPARKLE Artist Center fam who welcomed us there. For those who would want to experience STARDUST, you can get in touch with them via 0917-167 5800 or email them at reservations@stardust.ph so you can hold your parties there.
Congratulations on the milestones Alden! I'm sure you'll be achieving more in 2024. Watch out for his international projects, his upcoming directorial debut, and the project with Anne Curtis. Sub to my YouTube channel if you feel like it :)
I remember buying a TCL TV a few years back, it lasted for years and I loved it til it had its last hurrah. Today, it's the second top brand and first when it comes to 98 inch TV's and recently, their TCL S6 Series Home Theater Soundbar even won a Red Dot Award for product design (this 2023). This distinction has been much coveted in the industry since they've been around for 60 years recognizing the best of the best for consumer devices.
The TCL S6 Series Home Theater Soundbar has 3 models. The TCL S643W takes pounding for breakfast with it's 70W subwoofer, three speakers that can take your listening to another level. It's got a different max volume output, less distortion, so imagine if you've got this, subwoofers and sattelite speakers installed in your media room. Power is at 240W so if you've got a large floor space than recommended, it's not going to be an issue.
It's also got Dolby Audio. If you hear how it feels in a multi channel environment, you'll love how it's clear and feel like you're there on the scene when watching a movie. You can opt for automatic settings via Specialized Sound Modes if you prefer an easy route, but everything is up to you if you want to personalize your settings.
If you've got a TCL TV (which has Bluetooth capability), you can take advantage of its Bluetooth 5.3 connection and just use the connection to keep everything wireless in your entertainment setup. If you want more ideas, go visit TCL Philippines official site and social channels because they've got a lot of tips there.
Joined a few friends in the blogging scape a few days ago at Salvatore Cuomo and Bar in GF Uptown Parade in BGC. It sits at the corner of 9th Avenue and 38th Street and is frequented by party goers this side of town. On Saturdays, DJ David Ardiente takes the lead and plays awesome songs that could be enjoyed by Millennials, Gen XYZ's and just about anyone who just wants to have fun.
Moscow Mule
Sangria
Espresso Martini
Aperol Spritz
Aside from the usual fare (of beer, wine and hard drinks), they've got really mean cocktails like Espresso Martini, Moscow Mule, Sangria, Aperol Spritz which you should definitely try.
I could picture this place as a launch pad for other bars around the area but I'm pretty sure after a few rounds of cocktails in this joint. you'll never want to leave and just enjoy the night with friends and family here.
Brushchetta Porchetta
Carpaccio
Now to make sure you don't drink with an empty stomach, they've got several pizzas and antipasti you can enjoy while you hold your cocktail on your other hand. It's a great conversation starter, there are several single people right across the bar for that. This place gets pretty packed on the weekends so make sure you get here a bit early if you have dining plans. They also have a really mean Truffle Pasta, I didn't get to see it on the table anymore because it was that good.
Don't be sad as it'll all be a blur when you get home (don't drink and drive of course!). This place has good food, good drinks, just bring the companions or see people there. Take the trip to one of the hottest spots in BGC, and make that night an epic one at Salvatore Cuomo and Bar.
If there's something that is lacking in San Juan City, it's the fact that there's really a scarcity of good bars... but here's good news. ARCANA LOUNGE finally has opened and we've got first dibs on things they offer.
Ambiance: I think I've seen this being worked on a couple months ago when a couple workers went outside and pat dust off their clothes... and I saw a new sign put up in front, I stopped and said to my self, this is interesting! When I entered ARCANA this evening, my eyes were certainly drawn on the copper clad ceiling. I felt they did this on purpose so you get to feel how large the room was. The place could seat 50-60 people (maybe more) and tables were arranged for groups of 4 or more to fit friends, family. The back side had a long bunk chair and the others were upholstered thick, pretty comfy to be seated for hours. They also had fresh flowers, dropped in several places. Design wise, it reminded me of a little mix of modern, industrial and art deco. There's a sense of it being posh, their attention to detail was astounding.
The
Bar on the other had was built differently. The racks are filled to the
brim with different kinds of booze as they serve hard drinks and
cocktails. The bar is all clad in gold, black, aimed to complement the
restaurant interior. It also has their huge logo, intimidating to look
at but once you know the bartenders, you'll love them instantly.
Gourmet Nachos -Warm nachos with hearty chili con carne topping. Fresh and complements Gin, Tequila based drinks.
Purple Sour - Something they whipped up to surprise me, this was refreshing and perfect to start the evening.
Buffalo Wings - It had the flavors, not too spicy... make sure you eat it while it's hot!
Sisig Rolls - A different take on the usual bar chow. Like a mix between Filipino and Vietnamese. Again, make sure you consume while it's hot.
Truffle Pizza - One of my favorites that evening. It had the right amount of cheese, crispy crust and truffle permeated all over the top.
Sliders - If you need something filling, the sliders would surely do that. It comes with fries, which I think was also laced with a little truffle.
Fra Diavolo - Fresh pasta with shrimp, cheese and lemon on the side.
Steak Fried Rice - I liked their version, like the other items I mentioned earlier, eat it while its hot.
USDA Rib Eye Steak - They made it the way I like it. Medium, still has the right amount of fat (which I love) and buttery soft still. I would even love to have seconds. I would go back for this in a heartbeat!
Prawn Thermidor - For prawn lovers out there, here's your fix. You may have this shared but I doubt you'll do because it's cheesy good.
Lamb Rack - For those who would want something a bit more lean, get the Lamb rack. They cooked it perfectly... I'd assume this would be for those special date nights or "treat to self" days.
ARCANA LOUNGE maybe new, but fret not as they've got some seasoned Chefs and Mixologists behind all their counters. They plan very well, and honestly, the ambiance is a huge selling point. If you have guests, friends or family that need to be given a classy dinner, something to drink afterwards, this is the place you should be looking for. A plus is that they also customize drinks, just ask the friendly bartender what you prefer so they could whip up something for you.
ARCANA LOUNGE is located at the Greenhills Promenade's second level. You may enter through the stairs from Music Museum or the one on the left door of the mall's old door. I enjoyed my time there and surely, I'd be back for more!
I've had several birthday celebrations in Buffalo Wild Wings in Glorietta. It's just cozy, easy in the eyes, and got lots of sports shows in different sides of the restaurant. I'm glad they've got dine in, take out or delivery options so if you're suddenly craving for their best sellers, they're pretty easy to get.
Now I've been to a situation that when my friends take a seat and start ordering, they wouldn't be the sharpest tool in the shed. It either ends up us pointing fingers, or just decide for them if they're a bit lazy. Well Buffalo Wild Wings want to things to be easy, they now have PRIME LUNCH SETS available for dine in customers for only Php 495. All you need to do is pick from the Wings, Mac N Cheese, Side Salad, Ultimate Nachos, Chicken tenders, Onion Rings, Crispy Chicken, Chipotle Salmom, Fried Rice, Ribs, Chipotle Salmon, Garlic Rice. You can get it all day weekdays, which is a good deal especially if you're out for lunch on a work week.
There's also Buffalo Wild Wings Delivery Bundles if you choose to have it for take out or delivery. You may choose in bundles with either a 5 pc chicken wing or 5 pc chicken tenders. They also have the All for One combo that's got 15 wings, chicken tenders, onion rings or nachos with 3 dips. If you prefer the For The Win package, it's got 2 pcs of Fried Chicken, Grilled Pork Belly, Wing Meal and Boneless Meal. Surprisingly, they've priced this quite nicely and have it all available via the Bistro Delivers app, GrabFood, Food Panda and the Pickaroo app.
Top left has Ribs, Chipotle Salmon, Garlic Rice, Side Salad, while on the right they have Wings, Mac & Cheese, Side Salad, Ultimate Nachos and 2 pcs Crispy Chicken, Chipotle Salmon, Fried Rice (on the blue plate).
If you want to see more, simply follow their social channels at @bwingsph and see why a lot of people love their pizza and wings!
Alabang is so far from my place that I'd feel overly burdened to go there if it's not worth it. Work for most of the time made me travel there - and before I do go home, I'd plan ahead and make sure I discover something different, something that would impress my friends, my workmates, my family and my own taste buds. That's not hard to do mind you, but I guess there's an underlying notion of it being "worth it" before I do actually enjoy it this time because I traveled far for it. This is one of them, it's called AKROTIRI which serves modern Eurasian cuisine.
Set at the sprawling Filinvest business district at Commercenter in Alabang, this place is known for a small mall (by Philippine standards) and the neighboring food establishments. I have frequented this place in the past as I was staying in nearby hotels, so do expect people from neighboring towns, tourists and expats as well.
Akrotori is a cozy little place that could sit 50-60 people. It's got fancy - proper seating, a huge bar and a small function room upstairs for private parties. It's perfect for small events and you can even fit a stage inside since it's got pretty high ceilings. They didn't shortchange in design because the whole place wreaks of a modern bistro - added with a look of an English pub you would often see in that region. Ahh I can still remember the few drinks I had there, I was in tipsy heaven!
The Food
The food is exquisite, albeit being a
little pricey, you would see their servings are actually large. They use the freshest ingredients - and
quality wise, it's worth it! I would never hesitate to take a few family members here to enjoy the food. It's fusion so I think it's easy to adapt with flavors that are used in the west, a hodgepodge of taste and cooking techniques that are familiar in Europe - all here in Manila.
The Grilled Squid stuffed with Feta Foam and Black Ink Risotto was a good starter. It's slightly fishy because of obvious reasons, soft and the risotto was comforting. Make sure you have this while it's hot.
I've seen this happen last year and got so envious with the people who did it... when I received an email inviting me this year, let's just say I was giddy to actually be part of it. JACK TV, one of my favorite cable channels showing some of my favorite cartoons and programs has been doing these events for quite some time now. In partnership with San Miguel Oktoberfest, we've been tasked to do JACK TV Night Crawlers. It's a pub crawl of some sort but a tad different because we're going to scour the favorite watering holes in Bonifacio Global City. It was traffic, but I braved all that and found myself lost at BGC's Burgos Circle which was the only location indicated on the invite. It became doubly hard to find the starting point because as soon as I walked around that area, it started to rain like hell hath no fury. I came alone and arrived at BUGSY's near that circle and found myself in the midst of millennial bloggers and about a handful of their Facebook contest winners, so it was quite awkward to note that I was joining a bunch of guys and gals whom I didn't know. I guess, just like the other pub crawls where you would generally have to turn strangers into friends. :)
At BUGSY's we were treated by the JACK TV team with quick mind games, asking about their shows like our life depended on it. The other team racked in points, although some of my team mates also answered really tough ones so it was quite okay even if they took this round. I bet my team mates are going to have the next ones.
We transferred to RUE BOURBON and the rain didn't let out. We stopped here and waited a bit thinking that it would eventually stop, but did the necessary things a pub crawl should have... and that's beer. Out of the local beers in the market, my preferred bottle is an ice cold San Miguel Super Dry. Always have, always will be. Oh and Rue Bourbon had those fancy nacho chips in different colors, which were quite good actually especially for beer match.
Albeit a little drizzle was trying to stop us from enjoying the evening, we got to DWNTOWN HALDSTED next. That place was almost full to the brim when we got there. There were expats, treating themselves to really good bar chow. They've got real good cocktails also going on at the bar. We had take over the whole front and play some games again. Of course as expected, our team won this round. They have very good food there as I mentioned earlier, so what better way to celebrate but by having a small dinner there.
They had a pretty good spread. From well decorated NACHOS, the SALTED EGG CALAMARES (do I need to convince you? LOL), and the CRISPY PATA (fried pork trotters). Oh and there's more! To know who would win the pub crawl matches, we went to RELIK which was a couple blocks away from our last restaurant. We had to ride the JACK TV trucks to get there.
To win in the final game, we had to use a contraption that had a ring on it. We had to drink a mug of draft beer first though which made us a little woozy. I'm so glad I listened to my team mates Brent, his Dad and his family. I mean who would have known that the ones who won the Facebook contest were actually relatives, that's how far I got to the conversation. It was nice to actually nice to know how they were enjoying the whole thing, I loved how I connected with them quite well because it was like they were cool with anything. They had interesting stories in between bottles, and now they're my Facebook friends. :) This was the part where I enjoyed it most. RELIK Restaurant and Bar played music during my heydays and the people on my table were all singing the same tune. We were like kindred spirits... we were a little drunk but hey, we WON! It was just the right place and right time to have CHICKEN SKIN and BUFFALO WINGS! It was so good we had to have seconds. Thank you so much to ZOMATO and JACK TV for having us in this JACK TV Night Crawl!
Thanks to you I now have new friends, I had had so much fun too that evening. I hope I get invited in the next ones because I heard they are planning a lot of events in the future! Thanks again JACK TV!
If you want to experience the same things I did, head on over to the JACK TV Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/solar.jacktv/ and their official website www.jacktv.ph.
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
