Caffe Bene conquers the Philippines

Caffe Bene is the newest and the trendiest cafe here in the metro nowadays. I heard and read a lot of raves about this place way before I got an invite for the coffee cupping session held last month. It boasts its medium roast coffee and various menu items that are drool-worthy. Actually, a gelato place as well with a European feel and  prominent Korean touches. Eastwood is accessible to me so and I cannot contain my happiness that this fastest growing coffee shop chain in Korea finally paved its way here in our country, in a location  that is quite convenient for me and for my coffee addict girl friend working at one of the companies in E-commerce Plaza (the tall building in front of Caffe Bene).

For everybody's knowledge, bene means good or well. Say for instance the words benefactor, benefit or benevolence. Caffe Bene's very first store was established in April 2008 in Eastern Seoul, Korea. Since then  it has grown to over 900 stores making it really popular and trending. As of press time it has proven its brand and existed internationally such as in New York, California, Dallas, Beijing, Shanghai, Dalian and now in Manila.

Who would not instantly fall in love in a coffee shop as captivating and classy as this one? A perfect venue for contemplating, me time, doing your reports, blogging, reading and studying. Enough to take your breath away. I love that it has high ceiling, spacious dining area, comfortable chairs and couches and dazzling ornaments like the huge clock hoisted on the wall. The place assures you that you get connected to your social media friends because wifi is free and fast.

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Caffe Bene Coffee Cupping Session

Yours truly was invited to the Exclusive Party of Caffe Bene in Eastwood held about two weeks ago. The ultimate goal of the event is for the food bloggers, coffee addicts and connoisseurs to taste the Bene difference! I was actually planning to visit this place before I leave the country this month and it is but timely that I expressed my interest about knowing their coffee deeply. While I'm creating this blog post I am actually with my foodie partner sipping a great cup of White Mocha together here at their stunning branch in Eastwood.

Caffe Bene was founded in May 2008 by Sun-Kwon Kim, who is the current CEO of the brand. This cafe is the largest coffeehouse in South Korea in terms of the number of stores. Here in the Philippines, there are already two stores- Eastwood and Mall of Asia.

Before the participants are formally introduced to the coffee cupping session we were asked and educated why do people cup. Here are some of the reasons: quality and price discovery; purchasing (for origin or blending use); QA systems; blending and Subject to Approval or Sample application. We were then guided to proceed to the actual session.

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Discover a fusion of cultures at My Singapore Food Street in SM Megamall

My Singapore Food Street is your official gateway to abundant Singaporean food culture and flavoursome Singaporean dishes. If you are a regular mall goer of SM Megamall like me, you most likely have noticed that the vast Orchard Road restaurant (where I usually eat my Kachang), situated at the 2nd level bridgeway of the mall is now replaced with this brand new food establishment. The then sizeable dining place shifted to a meduim-sized establishment though still houses authentic Singaporean cuisine. The road became a street. How's that for a breaking news?

My Singapore Food Street definitely brings to Manila the taste and great style of Singapore's hawker centers. It is but proper to mention than not only Singaporeans are allowed to enjoy its presence but Filipinos too whose appetite for good food is never ending especially that dishes are reasonably priced. The dining area was filled with foodies, media, members of the online community and paying customers alike during the first day of operation. It simply shows how well-loved this place is even if it got its new name and management. For your information, this is owned by business entrepreneur Jean Henri Lhuillier and Asian TV personality and celebrity chef Vivien Tan.

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Kain na, mga Kapatid! Sa Oriang (by Cafe de Bonifacio)!

Kain na, mga Kapatid! This is how Oriang, a sister restaurant of Cafe de Bonifacio in The Podium, warmly welcomes its guests. Situated in the bustling Fiesta Market area of Market! Market! in Taguig, it seriously targets Filipino and foreigners alike. The place is actually a good venue for a food establishment for it is surrounded by corporate offices and is near bus and jeepney terminal. High foot traffic is greatly expected in this area which is a good move by the management of Cafe de Bonifacio to expand in this far side of the city. Oriang by Cafe de Bonifacio opened its doors last January 17 of this year. "Oriang" is the name of the restaurant because that is the nickname of Andres Bonifacio's wife Gregoria de Jesus, which I was not fully aware of not until I had the chance to visit the establishment with a group of food bloggers. For everybody's knowledge, Cafe de Bonifacio was actually inspired by Andres Bonifacio. Hence, it is but fitting that the people behind this restaurant have "Oriang" by Cafe de Bonifacio in Fort Bonifacio. 

Oriang has undoubtedly bright and lively setting. When I first set foot in this resto I know that I'll be super comfortable and that my food shots would be remarkable. Though I experienced intense heat while traveling from home to Taguig, my mood seemed to be fine because I know that the cuisine offered by them no matter how I am repetitively exposed to it is something that I cannot just avoid nor ignore. Oriang promises its guests of revolutionizing Filipino cuisine that generously provide popular Filipino dishes, along with fusion of modern and classic Pinoy dishes that very well reflects our cooking practices and traditions. I'm fortunate to have tried Cafe de Bonifacio last year and at least I basically have an idea on what to discover and uncover here.

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Vamos comer at Primero Casa Filipino in Quezon City

There's an Eat-All-You-Can Buffet Restaurant in Quezon City that I regularly see whenever Jenn and I are searching for a fancy resto to try once we reach Timog or Tomas Morato area, which in fact is surrounded with a lot of bewildering scout streets. She's one of my college best friends who would drive endlessly with me just to hit the right place to be- something worth mentioning, worth raving and worth remembering. She actually grew up in this city that is filled with assorted food and drinking establishments that complements our lifestyle. Whenever I see this elegant private house or 'casa' I can't help but be awed with its inspiring beauty, uncommonness and mystery. I finally satisfied my curiosity about a week ago and was relatively happy about the experience. Together with the two foodies I regularly get in touch with in the blogging community here in Manila, we successfully got to try Primero Casa Filipino on one rainy night. 

The place was originally called Chef Laudico's Casa Filipino, but for some unknown reasons the celebruty chef's name was removed and shifted to a name that very well reflects greatest strength, vigor and success. Does Primero Casa Filipino appeals to you? Kindly read the rest of the post to decide.

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Ristorante Bigoli in Eastwood...not just Pasta and Pizza!

I must admit that Bigoli is my first choice when it comes to affordable Italian restaurant here in Manila. First encountered in 2008 with my close friends in college, situated near the TriNoma cinema. I can still remember how much we enjoyed their pizza-and-pasta-all-you can back then. It was superb!  I know for a fact that the said promo instantly became a craze that even up to now is well embraced by many. A few days ago I was in Eastwood to grant the request of a dear blog mate so that we could try Ristorante Bigoli's dishes to restore my deep confidence to this brand. Everybody knows that the location where Bigoli now was once Fazoli's, another Italian restaurant.

Did you know that Ristorante Bigoli came from a Venetian roots? It took it name and inspirations from bigoli, a traditional pasta from the Veneto region of northeast Italy, named after the extrusion press made to create it. The press, called a bigolaro, dates back as far as the mid-1400s. Presently, Bigoli has found a life of its own, moving out of the old country into the new world.

I honestly like the branch in Eastwood as it is spacious, organized and tidy. Whenever peak time comes the line stays long yet orderly and staff are always functional. The filling station as I've noticed is always full, clean and steady. It allows you to do self-service and test your honesty as well. Pilferage has no room here of course.

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Cupido Gelato by Stickhouse

Gelato on a stick? Ever heard or experienced that kind of thing? We usually have gelato by the cup, but I'm pretty sure some of us have tried this Authentic Italian Gelato by Stickhouse already. I first saw its cool shop in Trinoma beside Bigoli about two years ago offering assorted Sorbet, Regular and Premium Gelato that are totally guilt-free and all-natural! Hence, anybody who's on a diet will certainly enjoy its assorted flavors, toppings and dip. My very first experience was love at first bite and it is but essential for me to repeat such a remarkable experience in order to cool me down especially that summer has officially arrived. Recently, I've tried their latest offering aptly called Cupido Gelato.

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Live Your Style with adidas NEO

A personality is a combination of an individual's qualities and characteristic that make him unique from the rest. We know for a fact that each one of us wants to be as interesting as possible, not to mention popular, so to address this issue it is but common to us to express our personality through style. Let's say for example our idols, known figures and celebrities. They all exude a type of personality that makes them distinct and shine above the rest. Ideally, what they have makes them all well-liked because of the social status they are bearing.

How about you? How do you express your personality? In my case, I exhibit my personality through my good set of attitude, skills and of course style! As they say, fashion is the perfect way to show your personality as it has the potential to develop you and create you. One does not need to be a fashion blogger to come up with a style that totally reflects you; what I normally do whenever I'm inspired is mix and match my wardrobe to come up with a great outfit of the day and to save money as well. But I'm also a type or person who wears jeans and a blouse or shirt partnered with comfortable  flats most of the time.

One this is for sure, never ever be afraid to show your real personality and express yourself well because this is what makes you having no like or equal. Discover your personality style. adidas NEO can actually help you live your stye.

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Food and Wine Pairing with Ms. Jenni Epperson

Blog while the passion is hot! This has been my mantra throughout my entire blogging hobby which is more than a year now. The gist of that sentence was discussed just a few days back while I was at SM City Marikina Atrium to catch Ms. Jenni Epperson, a celebrity stylist, fashion editor and a food and lifestyle blogger, who talked about Food & Wine Pairing.

The mini parisian paradise found at the Atrium of the mall gave an air of the wonderful flavors of Spain, France, Italy and the rest of Europe. The set up was so inviting that it spells luxurious travel partnered with great food and wine!

Participating brands during the Food and Wine Pairing Expo from February 11 to 28 includes the following: The French Baker, Gerry's Grill, Granvinex, Int'l, Stonehedge, Lizana and Lavinia, National Bookstore among others.

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The new TWG Tea Salon & Boutique at Rockwell Power Plant Mall

I've been waiting for this moment! Finally, more and more people can savour exquisite blends of tea because whether we like it or not, the finest luxury tea brand in the world, TWG (The Wellness Group) Tea will open its first island boutique concept in the country at the Archaeology of the Power Plant Mall this March. When me and my buddy went to Resorts World the other day we saw how elegant this tea shop is. I'm dying to experience it as soon as possible, but we'll do it only on special occasion given its expensive menu.

Certainly, in here you'll discover the widest tea collection of the most celebrated fine harvest and exclusive blends in the world. How cool is that, huh?

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Oliva Bistro Cafe in Visayas Avenue, Quezon City

After taking our late lunch at Ka Inato restaurant in Tandang Sora, Ms. Jinkee and Ms. Joy and I  tried to explore this side of Quezon City where we seldom set foot in; we seriously looked for a comfortable dessert place to complete our awayday! It is as if our day is considered incomplete had we not gratify the desire of our sweet palate. Along the way we've seen hole in the wall restaurants that we've already tried and tested. We wanted something different and of course blog-worthy.

That afternoon we discovered what we have been looking for,  Oliva Bistro Cafe situated along the busy street of Visayas Avenue. It is a small sized cafe that offers mixture of Greek, Mediterranean and Traditional American and Italian cuisine, ideal for spending quality time with girl friends and co-workers. It was quite deserted the moment we came in for a fulfilling dessert and light snack, but as time passes guests filled the dining area and suddenly it is peak hour for the wait staff. It is good to note that staff here were very very accommodating, friendly and competent. Strong wifi connection allowed us in sharing our moments of happiness (real time) in social media sites such as Facebook and Instagram.

All tables were properly set up for the walk-in guests and patron's convenience. You can easily notice that this is a fine dining place. Actually, that week Oliva Bistro Cafe has an ongoing anniversary promo as they just turned one this year. Naturally, we availed of the said promo which I will be sharing later.

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Mr. Ube Rice and Noodle House in Ongpin Street, Binondo

If you are very familiar in Binondo, then you probably have unexpectedly seen or experienced this well-known establishment along Ongpin called Mr. Ube Rice & Noodle House; or fortunately talked to a genial man behind this restaurant and Eng Bee Tin. I was greatly exposed to this place because my parents  and aunt regularly brought me and my siblings  here where we usually hear Sunday mass in the Minor Basilica of St. Lorenzo Ruiz, more popularly known as Binondo Church. My Binondo exposure was intensified during my teen years since I do have a best friend who is of Chinese descent who would normally treat me to most of the food nooks in and out of the oldest Chinatown in the world.

Just recently I was invited to a Bloggers Date with Mr. Ube. Ive met this man before and I cannot place the number of times I saw and talked with him. As everybody knows he is the visionary behind Eng Bee Tin Chinese Deli and when you try to ask the history behind it he would surprise you with his humorous and remarkable story. He is always so animated. For sure you'll learn a lot from his humble beginnings and touching story once you get the chance to chat with him.

The restaurant may look small from the outside but inside reveals a typical Binodo restaurant wherein table is filled with condiments for easy access and place is filled with mix of Pinoy, Chinese and Tsinoys enjoying a bowl or two of  hot noodle soup or dimsum. There's a narrow pathway leading to a bigger space at the back of the resto to cater more guests. I'm not so sure about the second floor but I notice a red spiral staircase on my way to the event venue.

Mr. Ube Rice and Noodle House is said to be making noise among culinary connoisseurs. Certainly, Chinese cuisine constitutes majority of the menu but there's a lot in store for new and regular diners here. Of course always present on their menu are noodle soup, rice toppings, stir fry noodles, dimsum, and a whole lot more. Meaning to say you can order variety of international noodle soups once you have your meal here  moreover, its varied hopia product which Eng Bee Tin is popular for.

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Blue Water Day Spa: Relax in Style like the latest endorsers Iya Villania, Aljur Abrenica and Ian Batherson

Blue Water Day Spa introduces its new endorsers during the media launch held last week at the Palawan Ballroom Edsa Shangri La-Hotel in Mandaluyong. They are known as today's hottest and sexiest young stars and they are no other than Iya Villania, Ian Batherson, and Aljur Abrenica. Although we consider them as big names in the showbiz industry, like any other people they do deserve to get pampered and retreat for the mind, body and soul. This is absolutely true most especially that they deal with a lot of pressures from work daily.

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Century Tuna's New Campaign starring Anne Curtis

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Max's Online Delivery is so Fun and Convenient

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The Solar Solution: Bringing Light to Provinces

 

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Cocina Juan in Maginhawa Street, Quezon City

There's a small eatery in Teacher's Village offering Latin American inspired dishes with a twist that you guys might want to explore. It is named as Cocina ni Juan which is located along Maginhawa Street near Moonleaf Tea Shop. The place looked welcoming, humble and incredibly full of surprises. The signage is eye catching because of the big chili suspended from a post.It became a trademark that gained a lot of repeat first time customers especially from the foodies who love searching for places that still remain undiscovered for many. This was established some four years ago and a brainchild of three Adviento male siblings. The restaurant is considered a fusion cuisine but started as a TexMex idea. Mr. Robert Adviento went to Nicaragua to work there then decided to return to the Philippines after how many years to put up a unique restaurant together with his brothers. But are you curious who on earth is Juan? It is actually his third brother.

There are three long tables outside the restaurant and actually  an ideal  place to unwind with close friends after school and office hours. Common guests here are college students and yuppies.

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Buy NOKIA LUMIA at ABENSON

Cellular phones are a necessity of life. Whether we accept this idea or not, we cannot live without using cell phone each day of our life, make its applications updated and acquire the best and the latest. There's one cellphone brand that I'm eyeing to have this first quarter of 2013. Hopefully, my wish will come true. Nokia is a cellphone brand that I will never ever forget; this used to be my first ever mobile phone and I'm not having second thoughts of shifting from the current brand I'm using to their latest Smartphone! Everybody wants to be different and having a unique phone powered by Windows Phone 8 makes the difference. Who would decline to experience Nokia Lumia 620, Nokia Lumia820 and Nokia Lumia920? I bet no one would do that.

Nokia Lumia is one of the most innovative Smartphones nowadays! One can catch the moment with an 8 MP camera with Carl Zeiss lens; capture perfect group photos with Smart Shoot;  view the world through Nokia City Lens; and last but definitely not the least, show off with vibrant colours, a one-piece polycarbonate body, and ceramic zirconium camera detailing and side keys. I'm drooling to have one already.

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Have A Cup of Awesome at Joe Monkey!

Sunday night is best celebrated with a very reliable best friend, so about a few hours ago when I finished my dinner with family, I texted her right away to have some bonding moments. These past couple of days have been very hectic so we deserve some companionable silence together and right now we are here lounging at the newly discovered tea shop along Tomas Morato and it is called Joe Monkey Milk Tea. While she planned of finishing her paper works to be submitted tomorrow morning, I killed my time browsing news online and of course blogging about my fresh discovery.

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Clucky's (a partner of Mad for Chicken New York) in Rockwell Center Ortigas

There's a new and exciting brand in the quick service restaurant business that foodies particularly chicken lovers should try. It can be found in its first branch in Rockwell Business Center in Ortigas beside The Medical City. When I first saw the logo I instantly know what it means to deliver and when I first came inside the store I know for a fact that this type of restaurant could offer impressive dining experience that will keep me coming back for more. My hint was right! It has a menu that is not just limited to what their core product is all about for it has a combination of fresh and exciting mains, sides and meals.

As a matter of fact this place that I'm telling, Clucky's,  is a partner of Mad for Chicken, one of the famous Korean fried chicken brands in the USA. If you are in other foreign markets and somebody hears this brand it conjures up positive feedback and standing. Mad for Chicken has a reputation that is worth recognizing because of its quality food and service. The brand was first introduced in new York City. However, here in the Philippines Clucky's is owned and operated by a family owned company who are certified foodies and engages in food and beverage distribution and sales. It is known as MJ&K Holdings, Inc.

House Salad PhP119

A salad that is a mixture of fresh lettuce, mango and watermelon cubes. Fruity, refreshing and delectable starter. Clucky's serves their house salad in a different way weekly. This is to assure they only use the freshest  ingredients and whatever fruits in season available that go well with the recipe. A plate is good for 2-3 people sharing but since I super duper love fresh salads I believe I can finish this big plate :)

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PLDT myDSL’s best commercial for me is…

Are you familiar with the most-talked about  PLDT commercial? If so, then I believe you could somehow relate to the number of events featuring the family of Derek. If not, then you should familiarize yourself with the said sequence of heartwarming situation by watching the four PLDT myDSL Anna Banana commercials; but before proceeding to that allow me to express my thoughts first in which series best shows family-sized connection and sharing at home. In my opinion, PLDT myDSL’s best commercial for me is the last one when Mr. David Lorenzo, the dad of Derek getting the help of his son, Dee-dee (his daughter) and Aria (winner of the Search for Derek's New Anna promo) to sing an apology song to Mama Berns for losing their dog, Booster. It warms my heart as the kids sincerely and effectively express their dad's sorry or apology to their mom for what happened to their lovable dog. It is a family bonded with love, forgiveness, understanding and sharing that is worth emulating. The bonding or should I say family 'spark' is present that surely makes you giggle and  your heart smiling forever. It promotes raising a happy and loving family.

Derek’s Anna Banana Song

             

Derek got busted

             

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Everyday Mom in Quezon City: Healthy and Yummy. Naturally!

It is still fresh in my memory how one of my closest friend in the blogging community and I were planning to visit this small pastry shop along Scout Tuason in Quezon City a few months ago after attending an event at a restaurant near it, until I  got an  invitation from a dear friend to visit Everyday Mom  one afternoon. It was just the beginning of the week to sweetly welcome by being inside this cute and dainty doll house-looking shop selling only homemade treats.

Everyday Mom is open to serve you daily from 11AM to 9PM. Each individual who enters the shop is expected to have a happy heart and a bright disposition. It is said that, "A happy heart with a happy mind results to a peaceful and graceful well-being." I liked the vibe once you are inside for it expresses love, sweetness and humility. It feels like home that you want to stay and have a nice conversation with somebody that you could perfectly kill time with over some cupcakes and cookies even if free wifi is not provided. I observed that most of the customers are repeat and loyal ones who are fond of taking out baked goodies -in pieces and in bulk. The shop could only cater less than 10 persons but the owner is planning to expand the area anytime soon.

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Ka Inato Palawan's #1 Chicken hits Manila!

It is obvious how inasal or inihaw restaurants occupy our city since we can almost find them everywhere, and undeniably were liked by local and international tourists. But the invasion is never to stop anytime soon for recently two of my food blogger friends and I discovered an exceptional inihaw chicken place in Quezon City that you must strive to get to know better as well.

Ka Inato Palawan's Number 1 Chicken apparently originated from the largest province in the country (Palawan) where it is considered a pride; just like any other inasal fast food restaurants, it specializes in charcoal grilled chicken. So how do this became became the personal favorites of Palawenos?  Matter-of-factly, Inato means “atin” in Palawan and “inihaw” in the southern area of the Philippines. When the two words are combined it fittingly describe the house specialty Original Chicken Inato and Inato Chicken Special (the hot and spicy version), both a must-try of course.

The dining area has white floor that contrasts wooden tables and chairs that accordingly  filled the resto. Huge paintings are everywhere which could surely caught any one's attention. We went here past 2PM where lunch crowd is nowhere to be seen. This is the very first branch in Manila and there are two branches in Palawan- the one is in  Rizal Ave, Puerto Princesa City and the other is located in KM 4 North National Highway Corner, San Manuel Rd., Bgy. Tiniguiban, Puerto Princesa City. If you are pure blooded Palawenos, I'm sure you know exactly where to spot Ka Inato but for local tourists and foreigners I know that these branches deserve their time.

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