Experiencing PANDA PLATES: Flavors of the World in Quezon City

 

Manmaru Japanese Restaurant, Pandan Asian Cafe took out their best dishes!

There's often a discussion between friends and family where to eat, but I think this doesn't happen often in Quezon City. Here, we've got choices, choices that you don't have (I kid!). Oh how I love being in my hood, and people know it. Imagine, you can feel like you've been around the world just by going through several restaurants in Tomas Morato. This is the experience done courtesy of the folks from foodpanda. They properly call it PANDA PLATES: Flavors of the World in Quezon City. Hold on to your seats because this is good! 

Chili's Tomas Morato had Half Slab of Ribs, Truffle Burgers, Molten Chocolate and Salmon.

 

As you can see, Quezon City did not disappoint when it comes to food from around the world. We also went to BASTA Cafe in Kamuning, pick ups from Dulcinea in Tomas Morato, had deliveries from Amici in the Scout Area and end with a feast at CHILI's in Tomas Morato. You can literally walk to these establishments but might take a while in some of them. Good thing we've got the foodpanda app to ease the burden on folks during this rainy afternoon. 

The Quezon City Tourism Department's Ms. Yasi Jorge told us this is one of the city's best culinary destination and they're glad that foodpanda is doing it here. It has been a vibrant way of showcasing food culture, tradition and innovation. Every street offers new flavors, a new story, and great experience. They're happy to be a part of the gathering that makes food from this place shine. There's a lot of home grown restaurants and establishments in this place and they're raring to welcome guests even more. Added it's a culinary capital that is worthy to be explored. This gives emphasis to give support in everything local. The dining culture is alive and thriving in QC, and definitely more to explore!

Ms. Jade Legazpi foodpanda's Senior Account Manager also shared how they'll be launching promos specifically during Quezon City's founding anniversary. This was on October 12th where they gave up to 20 percent discount on QC restaurants, so make sure you follow foodpanda's social media channels so you wouldn't miss promos like it in the future. foodpanda's Jerome Mangahas also awarded winning participants in the days event. It was really fund and we didn't go home hungry, thanks foodpanda!

Can't wait to have another one of these food crawls happen soon!

Razon's by Glenn: In the Business of Serving "DELIGHT!"

Filipino comfort food is always served at Razon's by Glenn. It's a company built with family - and love. Consequently, they're celebrating their 21st anniversary and are gunning to have 60 branches by years end. The chain is largely known for their Palabok, Halo Halo, Bibingmamon, Beef Tapa, Beef Kare Kare, and new innovations on the usual Filipino flare. Their menu stemmed from real Kapampangan heritage and flavors, so you don't get disappointed in what they serve.

The Beef Kare Kare is a bit sweet and can be eaten even without bagoong. The peanut sauce has home made peanut butter in it, which they made themselves. The Bibingmamon is available in 4 flavors namely Original (which I prefer), Cheesy Melt, Custard and Nutty Custard. The Beef Tapa is on the sweet, smoky, and spicy side, but quite tender. Their Fresh Lumpia is good and savory, it felt like what grandma used to make. They have a hefty serving of Pork Chop with gravy (my personal favorite served that afternoon). They also teased us with their conceptual Crispy Palabok, which I'm sure young ones and everyone would enjoy!

For those looking for something extra comforting, they've got Caldo Overload which you can ask for refills if you want more. You get the fuzzy feeling that comes with it on a rainy day.

Razon's by Glenn is third generation owned. Their grandma gave them freedom to be creative in recipes, hence the variations they made with the dishes.

Bibingmamon is quite nice, as the name says, it's a cross between the Christmasy Bibingka and the fluffy Mamon. This was quite delicate and perfect to pair with coffee.

Razon's by Glenn has always been regarded as the best spot for Halo Halo. This Special Halo Halo was quite satisfying despite it only having a few ingredients. I personally think it's the Macapuno that makes it different from the rest in the market.

We also got to talk to the owner and President Mark Anthony "Glenn" Razon. Right now, they have 36 branches operating nationwide, but aggressively plan to have 100 of these stores before 2030.

Glenn reiterated "We are not just selling products, we are providing delight!". This is the reason why people who visit their stores feel happy every time they get to taste the dishes coming out of their kitchen. It's also a family spot, so whether you're a Lola who wants their merienda fix or the cutest bunso that wants something sweet, Razon's by Glenn makes every moment special no matter what age group you belong. 

Visit their stores nationwide, or if you prefer to be part of the movement, they are looking for franchisees. Just get in touch with them via their social channels or official website razonsbyglenn.com.

ROSSINI Serves Comforting Italian Dishes at S Maison

If you've been the person to choose where to eat in the Mall of Asia grounds, I've got good news for you. There's this nice and quaint Italian restaurant at S Maison's 2nd Floor called ROSSINI that I think you should visit. It's light and bright interiors, cozy seats and classy decor won't be the only reason to go here because the food is equally great.

Mango Cannoli and Meatball in Marinara

Cappellini Ai Frutti Di Mare for the seafood lovers out there!

Fruit Drinks and their signature ROSSINI Pizza! The pizza is legendary because it contains chopped up foie gras combined with fig. It was the right amount of sweet and savory. Best dish served that afternoon.

Steak with Salsa Rosso. Angus Steak with roasted asparagus, mushrooms, onions and potatoes.

They also have a private room at the back that can accommodate around 20. If you're looking for a date place, a place to celebrate your birthdays or intimate gatherings, go give ROSSINI a visit. Food is comforting, best shared, because like Italians, we are family-centric.

Again, it's at the 2nd floor of S MAISON at Conrad, Mall of Asia grounds in Pasay City. Trust me on the pizza. 

 

Bistro Group Opens SARAP Bistro Filipino and Xi Nen Hot Pot at MY SOUTH HALL

 

After a long time, it was certainly nice to journey down south and have a good meal at My South Hall, Bistro Group's line of concept restaurants at Conrad S'Maison. Got to eat there a few times, and each time, I'd try to order something new because it houses Fish & Co., El Pollo Loco, Modern Shang WCKD, and cult hit Randy's Donuts. 

They had something new up their sleeve when I got there a few days ago. The first is called SARAP Bistro Filipino and the other is Xi Nen Hot Pot. These are two new brands they've conceptualized for My South Hall to add to the already great selections that they had. This is quite fun for restaurateurs since you can pretty much test the waters if people love the new dishes. I had my eyes on a few especially the Filipino dishes from SARAP because even if some were traditionally prepared, it felt new for me.

SARAP Bistro Filipino specializes on Filipino comfort food, the classics and those that were made with a twist. They are served family style so you can order a few to get a taste of the new viands. I like those with sauces that I can smother over hot Garlicky Rice. What's special about MY SOUTH HALL is that you can order from other restaurants without going too far because they are in one place. SARAP Bistro Filipino had Sinigang, Bopis (which doesn't taste organy), Fried Tawilis (eat it while it's hot!), Lumpia (they make a mean one) and Ginataang Kuhol.   

Xi Nen Hot Pot serves Taiwanese inspired hotpot dishes. You just need to choose our protein and they'll cook it for you on the table (yes you don't have to cook!) which is quite different than usual hotpot restaurants. Their broth can be adjusted to taste as they'll give you sauces to adjust the flavor, and since I did like it a bit more intense, I put in the whole plate in because I like it savory. Here's what it looks like on video a few days ago.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by John Bueno (@kumagcow)

See, there's more where this came from and if you're a person who couldn't choose where to eat or what to have for lunch or dinner, this place is perfect! 

This is again located at the Conrad S. Maison. Walk to the far right at the back (when facing Mall of Asia) and look for the MY SOUTH HALL sign. Ask the friendly hostess to have you seated as there are instances it gets quite busy during those peak hours. Take home desserts, drinks and donuts before going home, you're going to love it!

Shakey's Releases New Tender Crrrunch Chicken Fingers

 

For fuzzy eaters who want to enjoy fried chicken, this is the day you've been waiting for! Your favorite pizza place Shakey's just released the new Tender Crrrunch Chicken Fingers which we enjoyed a couple days ago! It's lean chicken tenderloin that's well seasoned, fried to that golden brown perfection so you get a soft meaty interior with a crunchy outer coating. For those looking for a protein source, this would be something I'd like to have without rice, but since we're Filipinos, I'm sure you'll order one right?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by John Bueno (@kumagcow)

Aside from the usual chicken pieces, you get to dip it in a vegan Barbecue dipping sauce that also comes with it. It only costs Php 249 for the solo size, whilst for those who prefer more, get the Php 399 Basket instead. This is available now on all Shakey's pizza stores nationwide wether take out, delivery or in store. You can also order via the Shakey's app or delivery apps where available. Follow Shakey's social channels to know more about it!

Outbox Media Powerhouse Corporation Celebrates Iconic 17th Anniversary

It was a huge celebration last Wednesday, July 26th at the Metrotent in Pasig City as our friends from Outbox Media Powerhouse Corporation celebrated their 17th Anniversary. It also coincided with the birthday of it's founder Ms. Rosell Taberna. For those who don't know, Outbox Media Production is a full service events and production company that does creative work, commercials, management of events, supply performers/talents, and does marketing and advertising solutions too. This was somewhat a showcase of what they could do and it was certainly cool that they had a concept ready, much of which is about ICONS.

Guests include a lot of their clientele, like private companies, private individuals, suppliers, brands, government offices, the media, a lot of their employees (Taberna Group of Companies) and a lot of their friends and family.  

Aside from that, they had guest from their church, and celebrities like Alfred Vargas, Rr Enriquez, Elijah Alejo, Esang, Charie Pineda, Diane Medina, Lala Sotto, Kathleen Hermosa, Ms. Ara Mina, and Jon Lucas.

Popular coffee/bake shop/restaurant "Ka Tunying's" is also celebrating their 8th year in the business. Despite a really challenging pandemic period, they managed to recoup the branches they lost (about 5) during that period. They now have a total of 7 branches in operation and quite happy about the current business conditions. They remain bullish despite it all.

Anthony Taberna also has a new digital news program which will start this August. Since a lot of his viewers prefer his live streams, this will be called "Tune In Kay Ka Tunying Live!" which will be seen bi monthly (on the 15th and 30th). It's going to be a rundown of the latest news that happened during that time period. You will be able to see it for a full hour (at 5PM before your primetime newscast on TV channels) so make sure you subscribe on his YouTube channel. Ka Tunying says "I'm really excited about this show because aside from current events, we'll be featuring people in stories along with the show. I plan to talk to business leaders, and it will be called "All Access", so you have a hand and learn about their stories on how they have succeeded in their line of business. We will also be featuring places, to help with tourism, plus several interviews with personalities which we will include on the show. One of the planned segments will be in a magazine format, to compress what we shoot in a week in about 10 minutes, so it's really difficult to shoot and produce. We have invested a lot, our own studio to make this all happen."

Here's our interview with Mr. and Mrs. T.

Mr. Anthony Taberna also lauded his wife on how she was able to do all these things, including managing and producing the show. Truth be told, she's like a workhorse, they even find her working in the wee hours of the morning. He says "I declare my admiration and love for her, on her work ethics, I just hope she takes good care of her health." Ms. Rosell replied "I've had a huge long break during the pandemic, and we're just working hard now that things are getting back to normal. Our kids are good, and happy, we are celebrating as one, we are all happy!"

Congratulations to Outbox Media Powerhouse Corporation and the Taberna Group of Companies. Again, make sure you subscribe to their YouTube channel so you don't miss an episodes when it comes out!

Endless Rice + Fire Grilled Chicken Goodness at El Pollo Loco!

When they say Fire Grilled, they're not LOCO huh? This is El Pollo Loco!

See, I've always been thinking of this whole Fire Grilled Chicken since I last visited El Pollo Loco. For those who don't know, El Pollo Loco all started from a Mexican family recipe that was handed down to generations. Founder Pancho Ochoa sold it on the streets initially, and found himself catering to a line in no time. Then he opened his first shop in Southern California which bared the name El Pollo Loco.

In the Philippines, they are under the good people of The Bistro Group. If there's something good in El Pollo Loco like what I've tried in their Megamall branch for years now, it's the Fire Grilled Chicken. There's something about it that's quite mysterious, because it doesn't taste like the usual roasted chicken we have in the PH. It's got that little flair, something that has deep spice, something fruity, citrusy and a little savory. Plus it's expertly Fire Grilled, leaving a really soft, juicy, smoky chicken that you'll surely appreciate once you get a taste of it. Together with it is a side of salsa, freshly chopped and prepared every day, it was amazing!

It's pretty hard to explain in words, so here's a video of my food adventures that afternoon at their Venice Grand Canal Mall branch in Taguig:

 

"Endless Spanish Rice"

For Rice lovers, I bare good news about their current offer called "Endless Spanish Rice" which you can avail of when you order 2 piece chicken with salsa meal. That means, you can have as much Spanish Rice as you want when you dine in the restaurant. I had a few cups myself and I bet, you'll love how it would taste like since it's probably got a smoky paprika and annatto seed base, it's hearty and filling. Who knows, you could battle it out with office mates if you get to have meals at El Pollo Loco.

If you prefer other things on the menu, they've got a wide spread of Loco Sets, Sides, Tortilla, Tacos and those custom made for the Filipino palate. Here's a preview!

Barbecued Ribs, I don't have to convince you do I? It's quite tender, just dip it in the barbecue sauce that comes on the side.

If you've got room for dessert, there's this tortilla bread that they toast up with hazelnut spread inside plus honey and walnuts.

I didn't get to have this because I was already full, but friend says it's good! They had a variety, just ask!

To go with the Fire Grilled Chicken, you might want to have Salad first! They do it fresh!

And because the Venice Grand Canal had water, we might as well take photos under the sun! It was sun bathing! LOL!

There's just so many food items to discover with the El Pollo Loco menu. There are also other side dishes available, so I advise you to just go ahead and ask what's available when you get there. Aside form the Megamall and Venice Grand Canal branch of El Pollo Loco, I heard they're about to open new ones in Robinsons Magnolia, Eastwood City and Trinoma Mall in Quezon City. If you're all been asking yourselves where to eat, you might want to give El Pollo Loco a try this week. I like what I saw, I didn't have take out because I finished my plate, plus it's not that expensive. Meals could probably run around 3-500 pesos a head, depending on what you prefer to order. Go get acquainted with it before the new branches open, it's super good especially the Fire Grilled Chicken. I wouldn't recommend take out because you need to eat it while it's hot, fresh off the grill. Then again if you prefer that, I wouldn't stop you!

As they say, it ain't the same without the flame! Go follow their social channels via @ElPolloPH for more information about it!

DINGDONG DANTES and MESA's Road to 100!

Stalwart of Filipino food and dining authority MESA just got actor Dingdong Dantes renewed as their brand ambassador just a few days ago at their Powerplant Mall branch in Makati City. Present during the occasion were Father and Son owners Rikki Dee and Eric Thomas Dee of FooDee Global Concepts, their Director of National Operations Raymond Federigan, and Dingdong's Manager Perry Lansingan.

Aside from the contract renewal, they unveiled their gigantic billboard which they installed on top of MESA Headquarters along EDSA in Mandaluyong City. They also divulged their goal of putting up 100 stores by 2025 or earlier to expand their current 70 strong stores nationwide and reach even more families who prefer familiar flavors innovated and served. You can expect Dingdong to still be in marketing collateral right in front of stores to greet guests with that signature smile of his that have charmed a lot of people. If you want to know, his favorites include the Pomelo Salad, Laing 2 ways, Crunchy Pork Sisig, and MESA's world renowned CRISPCHON.

It's recognized by Taste Atlas as Best Crispchon in the World. It's a young pig that has been deep fried to perfection, sliced then served in a Malunggay Crepe and slivers of cucumber, leeks, wansoy and own made sauces. You can just imagine how good this tastes like, so make sure you get your reservations done days ahead!

Here's what happened during the press conference:

Dingdong even went ahead and said he's raring to have one branch particularly #88 to be his very own soon. He also said he'd be glad to gift his wife gorgeous Marian Rivera her own restaurant too. Cheers and congratulations to the men and women who built MESA how it is today. It'll surely be a challenge but even after the pandemic, you have proven how hard work and dedication pays off.

Take Another Look: Heritage Hotel's Riviera Café

The Riviera Cafe has a selection of dessert items, the Mango Graham is highly recommended!

Heritage Hotel has been something that I usually just pass by going to and from other landmarks like Mall of Asia, MOA Arena or hotels in the area. This 4 Star hotel sits at the corner of EDSA and Roxas Boulevard which is a prime location. Back in the 90's they've had the privilege of being the primary destination for food adventures since the buffet here is legendary, probably one of the firsts who have done it in Pasay City. This is my first visit inside the hotel. I haven't thought about this being a dining destination because as a commuter, it's pretty dark outside. When I went inside, I was at awe of the interiors. To tell you honestly, I didn't know it was this nice. Heritage Hotel definitely deserves another look.

RIVIERA CAFE has been renovated and spruced up recently (and it's now open to the public!). Executive Chef Patrocinio Obia was mighty proud about how things have changed in recent months. For starters, the buffet used to be very dark and the renovations were pretty much a chance to brighten things up. Riviera Cafe will still be homey, very Mediterranean in style; but now modernized with a few light fixtures reminiscent of cafe's. Their menu now boasts of over 21 stations, bringing international flavors and Southeast Asian flair to the buffet. I could tell how passionate he was in making changes, and the other Chefs delivered quite well during service.

The spread was huge, and they've got plenty of dishes to choose from. I had a tiny bite of what I think would be good first before I concentrated on the best ones. Yes, I always had a gameplan when I visit buffets, and Riviera Café was absolutely lovely.

Salads stay cold and crunchy, served with different salad dressings on the side. Note how small servings they have on the station, they do that so you get food freshly cooked each time.

Fancy cheese? I like the funky smelling ones, don't judge!

The Grilling Station had different seafood and meat all skewered up

See that Beef Sate on the top left? They had to refill that plate because of me, it was that good! It was lightly grilled and smothered with peanut sauce that was a bit crunchy. It made a lot of difference!

The Laksa Station is something that you should take a vacation in. They make the Laksa from scratch, the shrimp flavor was intense and this was undoubtedly everyone's favorite that evening.

Carbs? They've got the pasta station waiting. Just let them know what sauce and pasta variety you want, they'll cook it right in front of you.

They've got Hainanese Chicken, I like the roasted one. You would need to put sauces on the meat if you choose the other poached or steamed variety.

They have Lechon and Crispy Pata, I would pass on the sauce as it was too livery (if there's such a term).

For those who love Japanese rolls, they've got a multitude of options laid on the mirrored plates. This was quite filling.

Dimsum had Chicken Feet, I like it.

Siu Mai was also freshly cooked, not overly steamed because it was probably made the same day.

I don't need to convince you with the Beef Sate, it was my personal favorite!

Finish the meal with some seasonal fruits, just to feel healthy about all the grilled food you ate lol!

Heritage Hotel's Riviera Café deserves another look, another try. With the changes they implemented on the buffet, the amount of people they can accommodate in the floor and guest rooms, this would surely be a good place to dine in for those special occasions and events. They're also HALAL Certified and has been the go to place of Malaysian and Indonesian Embassies for meals and meetings. If you want to reserve a table or their venues, call 0288548888 and press local 7355 or 7357. Trust me on the Beef Sate, it's one of my favorite places now to dine in. The buffet costs Php 1,188 and is currently open Thursdays to Saturday Dinner, and Sunday Lunch.

You can also stay in Heritage Hotel's many rooms. They are planning to renovate those as well. Now you've got more reasons to go there!