Duman: Harvesting Green Gold

It's December, and once again, a rare harvest is celebrated in the small town of Sta. Rita. The cool December air signals the start of the annual Duman season. The rich rice fields of Pampanga normally yields a bountiful harvest of regular white rice at least three times a year. But the rare green rice often called "green gold", can only be harvested in December, and in such limited quantities.  

A farmer can usually harvest around 300 cavans or sacks of the regular white rice for every hectare, but only around 4 cavans of duman, an extremely low yield. This limited annual harvest adds to the mystique of Duman, driving up its price to as high as thirty to forty times the price per kilo of regular rice. The rarity of this unique green rice makes it a much sought after delicacy, and for those in the know, sourcing such a rare product is almost as tedious as producing duman.

Food Facts: A Closer Look at Pizza

Everyone loves Pizza, and the numbers behind this love affair with pizza are quite impressive, even mind-blowing. And as we welcome another new year, let's take a closer look at Pizza with this cool infographic from www.onlinecollegecourses.com on the year in Pizza...

Pretty amazing. Nothing beats a good slice of Pizza....and here's to another year of pizza love.

Visit http://www.onlinecollegecourses.com/pizza-obsession for more details on the cool infographic.

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Authentic Italian at Lombardi's

Italian food has always been popular, and I think a big reason for its popularity is a shared affinity with family style meals. Classic comfort food, pasta and pizza, shared with family and friends, will always remain an image I have of Italian cuisine. With the growing number of Italian restaurants, very few can claim to be authentic, and that's where Chef Lombardi comes in...

An Italian native married to a Filipina, Chef Lombardi offers his own favorites from the old country, rustic and traditional Italian dishes at reasonable prices. And at Lombardi's, you'll find an extensive selection of dishes from cold and hot starters, pizza and pasta, main courses, wine and coffee and of course, desserts.

Greeka Kouzina's Lamb Burger

After trying out Greeka Kouzina's Roast Lamb, I had to go back. And after singlehandedly wiping out the roast lamb, surprising both myself and the friendly staff at  Greeka Kouzina, I decided to go for something lighter (check out my previous post on Greeka Kouzina's Roast Lamb here at http://dude4food.blogspot.com/2012/10/greeka-kouzina-taste-of-greece-in-san.html). Aside from their grilled lamb dishes, Greeka Kouzina also offers their own unique burger, one with a cool Greek twist. And I go for Greeka Kouzina's Lamb Burger.

I've always enjoyed lamb dishes, and lamb burgers are way up there in my list. And from what I hear, Greeka Kouzina serves up a pretty mean Lamb Burger...

Food News: Italianni's Launches New Christmas Platters

The holiday season is here, and there's no better way to celebrate than having a great meal with friends and family. And the family style meals at Italianni's are always a good choice. Now there's two more reasons to have a great meal with friends and family at Italianni's. The new Christmas Platters from Italianni's are perfect for get togethers, with The Country Classic and The Farmers Feast Christmas Platters. Cool.

Each of Italianni's new Christmas Platters consist of a pasta, chicken and meat dish, a pretty cool mix of flavors with something for everyone. I recently got to sample both The Country Classic and The Farmers Feast at Italianni's along with other bloggers for lunch last weekend, and that was one cool lunch. 

Breakfast at Racks

It's been a while since I last visited Racks, and I remember the good old days when I used to frequent Racks for a slab of ribs and their awesome barbecue sauce, the extra hot sauce. I've always enjoyed the dry rub style of ribs at Racks, the way a proper slab of ribs should be. But over time, Racks seemed to have slowed down in an increasingly competitive market. But Racks is back, and under its new management, poised to reclaim its former market position.  

Maintaining its core of premium "flame grilled, falls off the bone" ribs Racks has always been known for, it recently expanded its offerings to include a new line of Breakfast Meals, which includes their trademark meat products. And having ribs for breakfast is definitely all the motivation I need to check out the new Breakfast meals.

A Mix of Flavors at Mesclun Restaurant and Cafe

A culinary term for mixture, Mesclun Restaurant and Cafe presents a refreshing and diverse mix of both local and international flavors created by young Chef Katrina Kuhn Alcantara and her staff. In one amazing lunch, I got to experience the full range of flavors at Mesclun, including familiar and comforting flavors with some refreshing twists. My previous posts highlighted classic dishes reinvented, and that culinary trend continues with Mesclun Restaurant and Cafe featuring Chef Katrina's personal culinary take on classic dishes.  

Drawing from her own favorite dishes enriched by her numerous travels abroad, Chef Katrina presents a wide range of flavors at Mesclun, an inspired mix of classic old world cuisine updated with new world notes and Mesclun's personal touch. And yes, I got to sample Mesclun's much talked about sourdough pizzas.   

A Quick Break at Flapjacks

As the Christmas rush gets into high gear, time for a late lunch at the Greenhills Theatre Mall. Time for Flapjacks...

For some odd reason, this December month feels like summer, the glare and heat clearly not helping the shopping rush.  Some fresh fruit juices should cool things down a bit, and we start with Flapjacks' Cucumber Breeze (P 125) and Apple Juice (P 75).

Stonehedge at Cova: Great Wine, Great Food, Great Company

It was the usual busy Friday evening, but this was going to be no ordinary evening. And after going through the mad rush hour traffic, I was looking forward to a cool evening with some premium wines, excellent food, and great company.

It was my first real wine tasting, and as part of my personal continuous learning program, this was one event I wouldn't miss. And since the wine tasting was held at Cova Tapas y Sangria, my new favorite place, it was a no brainer. Good food, great wine, I'm there. And what an amazing evening. Sampling a new line of unique, artisanal premium wines from Stonehedge paired with Cova's exquisite tapas, now that sounds like a seriously good pairing. Napa Valley's Stonehedge Winery is recognized for its elegantly handcrafted wines with its meticulous and  gentle care of the grapes from vine to bottle, allowing each bottle to "let the fruit show the way."  And Cova Tapas y Sangria prepared new dishes specially for this wine tasting.

Food News: The Bistro Group Launches The Premiere Card

Italianni's Seafood Cioppino. T.G.I. Fridays' Jack Daniel's Burger and Ball Park Nachos. Village Tavern's Maryland Style Crab Cakes. Flapjacks' Cajun Spiced Pork Chops. Watami's Beef Short Ribs. Bulgogi Brothers' Kkotdeungsim Gui. All personal favorites, and with six other restaurant concepts under The Bistro Group, there are still many other dishes to try and add to your list favorites. And with The Bistro Group's  Premiere Card, you can get exclusive privileges while enjoying your favorite dishes. Pretty cool.

One Premiere Card, twelve great restaurant concepts...awesome. With your Premiere Card, you can now enjoy the following dining privileges in all Bistro Group restaurants for one year, such as:

• 20% OFF your bill
• 25% OFF your bill on your Birth Month
• 30% OFF your bill every Monday
• Two 40% OFF Dining Vouchers up to P3,000 spend
• Six Appetizer Vouchers
• Complimentary Coffee or Tea for every visit

You get all that for only P 2,500. Not bad...

And with the coming holiday season, it's the perfect gift for your foodie friend. Or you can reward yourself with a full year of good eats...now that's cool. Get your exclusive Premiere Card now, and enjoy all your favorite dishes from The Bistro Group, definitely a cool deal.

You may contact The Bistro Group at 836-7141 for inquiries or visit any of your favorite Bistro Group restaurants near you.

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Cool Vegetarian at Pipino's

A watermelon steak for dinner...seriously? Yup, I never thought I'd enjoy a vegetarian dinner, but I did. And for one night, I was one happy vegetarian dude.

Pipino specializes in vegetarian food, made with the same distinct culinary flair by Chef Ed Buguia's Pino Resto Bar. All the dishes are 100% plant-based and vegan, and has since received numerous culinary awards for its creative vegan menu. I have to admit, being a steak and burger guy, I had some doubts about going vegan even for just one evening. But then again, Chef Ed Buguia never fails to surprise diners with his inventive and playful culinary style. 

Pino Resto Bar: Fine Filipino Food Reinvented

Traditional Filipino favorites reinvented with a twist. That's Pino in a nutshell. And in one amazing dinner, I got to sample the full range of Pino's fun, playful and creative culinary style with flavors that are comfortingly familiar yet different, new and refreshing.

Pino has been transforming traditional Filipino dishes since 2008, updating old favorites with new flavors, textures and ingredients. And with a new branch in Makati, more diners can experience Pino Resto Bar's distinct and refreshing take on classic Filipino dishes. 

Food News: Meet the New BBQnator from Wendy's

Somethin's cookin' over at Wendy's...

Meet the new BBQnator from Wendy's...two juicy quarter pound imported beef patties. Six strips of tasty smoked bacon. Two slices of American Cheese. Topped with a crunchy onion ring. And an amazing smoked hickory barbecue sauce. Awesome.

An Awesome Lechon Degustacion at Pepita's Kitchen

Three amazing lechons. Five hours of pure pork bliss. Dinner with an amazing family. And an international chef and Food Network TV host. Awesome. 

And that's exactly how dinner went last Tuesday. I've heard stories about Dedet de la Fuente Santos' Pepita's Kitchen, and her famous, near legendary Lechon Degustacion dinners held in their family home. And when I received a text about dinner at Pepita's Kitchen, I immediately confirmed. Definitely a no-brainer, not this one. Finally, I get to try Pepita's Kitchen's signature feast, all fourteen courses. And meet an international chef and Food Network TV host. All in one amazing evening. Perfect. 

A Piece of Napa in Quezon City

Sometimes you find great food in the most unexpected places. Tucked away in Quezon City is a culinary gem specializing in classic Italian American comfort food, a cool find that's worth the drive. 

Formerly Bistro Napa located at Il Terrazo also in Quezon City, the owners decided to move to a new location, converting a residential space to house the new Napa Restaurant and Bar. The fun and eclectic mix of wooden and wicker chairs with wrought iron chairs and plush sofas add to the overall charm of the place.  The overall look emphasizes relaxed dining, an appropriate backdrop to Napa Restaurant and Bar's cuisine. A piece of the wine country in the middle of Quezon City. And with the new location comes an updated menu, with a focus on comfort food like pizza, pasta and other popular favorites. 

A Light Lunch at Village Tavern

I've had Village Tavern's crab cakes on my mind for the past few days, and  after trying out some signature dishes previously, I had to come back. This time, a light lunch with Village Tavern's other signature dishes. 

The Freshly Squeezed Apple Carrot Juice (P 180+), always a good start. Naturally sweet, though it comes with syrup if you want it sweeter. But it's really good as is.

Bag a Pizza with Doritos

Another Laker loss, this time against the Grizzlies, as I emptied another bag of Doritos. But it's early in the season, and hopefully the new Laker rotation and its new coach get in gear as the season progresses. As I was about to toss out the empty bag of Doritos, I noticed a promo sticker...

Doritos and Pizza Hut concludes another cross promotion offering a free Pizza Hut meal with the redemption of specially marked bags of Doritos. The redemption period ran from September 1 and ended on November 30, giving me only a few more days to "grab a pizza meal."

Burger Time at T.G.I. Fridays

An unexpected lunch at T.G.I. Fridays turned out to be a great day for burgers. Real burgers. 

I've always enjoyed the burgers at T.G.I. Fridays, not only does it taste great, it also evokes the cool imagery of classic Americana, pop culture you can taste.  

Food News: Gerry's Grill Opens Third Branch in Singapore

Gerry's Grill expands it branch network with a third branch in Singapore. After just nine months from the opening of its second branch in Singapore, Gerry's Grill successfully opens its third outlet in Makasuntra Glutton's Bay at the Esplanade Waterfront, a popular food destination among locals and tourists.

Makasuntra brings together the best and most popular food vendors around Asia at very affordable prices. "Aside from expansion, the opening of more branches in Singapore aims to promote Filipino cuisine in locales where many tourists go. It's about time we go mainstream," says Gerry Apolinario, chief executive officer (CEO) and president of Prime Pacific Grill, Inc. (PPGI), operator of Gerry's Grill. Like its local counterparts, Gerry's Grill branches in Singapore offer Filipino bestsellers like Kare-Kare, Grilled Pusit, Crispy Pata, and Bulalo, among others.

Getting More for Less at Hoagies

There's a new joint specializing in subs, or hoagies, offering fresh sandwiches with excellent value. Not your typical 6-incher, but a larger 8-incher with more filling, more options to choose from at reasonable prices. Very cool.

Hoagies, a Philadelphian term for the classic sub, hero, or Italian sandwich is said to have its origins from "Hog Island," where predominantly Italian and Irish settlers were called "Hog Islanders."  Hog islanders were particularly fond of  large loves of bread stuffed with meat, called "hoggies," and in time evolved to "Hoagies." Cool. Now you know.  

One Fine Day at Watami

It was my Color Coding Day, and I was at Watami early. Really early. But it seemed like a good idea to spend the day by the bay. And it was.

Recently opened only this November, Watami brings its extensive line of signature dishes and drinks to the Mall of Asia. An established and well known chain in Japan with a string of regional successes in Malaysia, Hong Kong, China and Singapore, Manila finally gets a taste of Watami's cool take on contemporary Japanese cuisine. I was invited along with other bloggers to sample Watami's signature dishes, and no color coding traffic scheme could  hold me back. Nope, not on this fine day by the bay.

Food News: Papa John's Big Bonanza Christmas Trio

The holidays are fast approaching, and pizza with friends and family is one cool way to jump start the Christmas season. Better yet, check out Papa John's Big Bonanza Christmas Trio for an awesome deal... 

Just purchase one Large Big Bonanza (14") and four regular Coca-Cola for only P 610 and you get a Nestle Drumstick Loaded Ice Cream (800 ml) for FREE. Yup, free ice cream with Papa John's Big Bonanza Christmas Trio.

Oliva Bistro Cafe: A Taste of the World in Visayas Avenue

It's rare to find a restaurant serving Indian, Italian, Singaporean and Filipino food, all in one place. Rarer still to find such a place along Visayas Avenue in Quezon City. Oliva Bistro Cafe is one such place.

The reason behind Oliva Bistro Cafe's diverse menu is Chef Kannan, who comes from India, trained in classic Italian cuisine, worked in Singapore, and married to a Filipina. This diversity brings the best of each cuisine in the different dishes served by Chef Kannan and wife Denden, with each dish remaining true to its origins, no fusion dishes here. Conventional wisdom often dictates the need to be single-minded and focused in an increasingly competitive culinary landscape, but here at Oliva Bistro Cafe, one is encouraged to experience the journey of the husband and wife team as they serve you the different dishes they love from different culinary cultures. 

A Couple of Sangrias, Awesome Tapas and a Cochinillo at Cova

The usual evening traffic started to build, and things just slowed down to a halt. It's nights like these that make you wish you were somewhere else. Maybe enjoying a sangria with some tapas. Cool. Permanently stuck on first gear, the traffic moves ever so slowly as I inch my way to Cova Tapas y Sangria...

Cova, which means "cave" in Catalan, is a refreshing new take on the usual tapas bar. An extensive wine selection, excellent Spanish food, great service and impressive interiors combine for an awesome experience at Cova. Great place to enjoy good food and drinks to while away the traffic...and stay a while longer after the traffic's gone. 

Ang Mo Kio: A True Taste of Singaporean Hawker Cuisine

It's always great to know that one can find true authentic flavors, and when you're craving for that distinct taste of Singaporean hawker cuisine, you don't need to go far.

Named after a district in north central Singapore famed for its food markets and local cuisine, Ang Mo Kio's menu is inspired by the district's hawker food stalls, using only the freshest ingredients and cooked from scratch for that distinct and authentic taste of Singaporean hawker cuisine.

A Japanese Feast at Yurakuen

The place. The food. The perfect spot for a true Japanese feast. Diamond Hotel's Yurakuen, an award-winning restaurant offering the very best in Japanese cuisine, is one of those rare places where you can see, feel and taste real authenticity at every turn and in every dish.

Yurakuen, which means "paradise" in Japanese, is an appropriate name. Every dish is expertly prepared and supervised by Japanese master chef Junichi Sekiyama, from traditional sushi and sashimi, to the freshest and most elaborate seafood and meat dishes matched with aesthetics that feed the eye as well. All this against a backdrop of impressive three-story high floor to ceiling windows surrounding a magnificent all-glass cherry blossom tree as the centerpiece. And one can understand why the name Yurakuen was chosen.

Dear Darla, It's Been A While...

It's been a while since I last enjoyed Yellow Cab's Dear Darla, way too long. It was definitely time to catch up on a dear old friend.

The unique rolled pizza includes fresh arugula and alfalfa sprouts, very cool. Not only is it refreshingly different, it's actually fun rolling your own little Dear Darla. 

What's in the Fridge...Green Apples, Red Apples and a Blender

Checked the fridge and found a few green apples, some red apples, a lone lemon, some carrots and leftover spinach. And a faithful old blender...

Then I found this simple recipe while searching the web, a Green Apple Smoothie with Spinach (check out mygreendiet.com's recipe by Mary Jolley at http://mygreendiet.com/green-diet-plan-recipes/green-apple-drinks-for-green-holiday/). Looks like another fridge raid in the works...

Chef Tatung's Refreshing New Take on Traditional Flavors

Some say the best of traditional Filipino cuisine can be found in old family recipes, passed and lovingly preserved through generations. It is here where one can taste the richness and regional diversity of traditional flavors, and through time, enhanced by culinary influences and a shared history resulting in a fusion of Spanish and Chinese flavors that remain so comforting. Myke Sarthou, or Tatung as close friends fondly call him, grew up with these old family recipes, and shares them in his new restaurant, Chef Tatung's at the Acacia Estates.

Mike Sarthou began his culinary adventures sharing his favorite family recipes with close friends, and in no time, quickly gained a following. Converting part of his home into Tatung's Garden Cafe, and by word of mouth, eventually became a favorite spot among foodies searching for familiar, traditional flavors with a refreshing and contemporary twist.  With everything going so well, it couldn't get any better. But it did. An opportunity to open a much larger restaurant in a new location led Chef Tatung to Acacia Estates in Taguig City. And just last Ocotber 26, Chef Tatung's formally opened in its new location.

Food News: The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf Begins the Season of Giving with the 2013 Giving Journal

The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf recently released its new 2013 Giving Journal, rewarding loyal customers with the gift of making a difference with the new edition. More than just a planner, the new edition features special sections on giving back, sharing compassion , celebrating kindness and finding joy in the act of giving. And as the holiday season approaches, there's no better time to start the season of giving.   

The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf has long supported charities, foundations, schools, and other organizations, reinforcing the Brand's core values built on a noble foundation of compassion. The 2013 Giving Journal was developed to celebrate the strong relationships the Brand has nurtured over the years with selected partner organizations and to raise awareness on local advocacies supported by CBTL. In fact, The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf will be dedicating proceeds from the Giving Journal to the Real LIFE Foundation, an NGO involved in providing access to education for underprivileged children.

Running Late But Everything's Cool at Red Buffalo

I was running late to meet a few friends at Red Buffalo, and the usual traffic didn't make it any easier. An hour late, I was finally there. It was my first time at Red Buffalo, and I was surprised at the number of establishments inside the new Greenhills Towncenter. Looking good so far... 

Opened early this year, Red Buffalo offers classic American comfort food, buffalo wings, pizza and ribs. The name Red Buffalo is inspired by their Original Buffalo Wings, crisp with a nice heat for a little kick. As I joined the group, I sampled some of Red Buffalo's signature dishes...

Food News: GrantonWorld Launches the Ultimate All-You-Can-Eat Spree at Mercato Centrale

Ever wished you could go on an eating binge at Mercato Centrale? Now you can. GrantonWorld, a leading online shopping social e-commerce hub, recently launched the All-You-Can-Eat Spree at the Mercato Centrale offering diners a unique culinary adventure.

Indulge in old favorites and discover new ones at Mercato Centrale in an exciting and fun one hour All-You-Can-Eat experience like no other, an hour of pure culinary indulgence.

Food News: Kick Off the Holiday Season with Yellow Cab's New Christmas Fleet Promo Plus New Ice Cream Flavor

The "ber" months are here, and the holiday season has officially begun. And to jump start the holiday season, Yellow Cab launches its new Christmas Fleet holiday promo, special combo packages for groups with Yellow Cab's signature dishes offering superior value. Plus, Yellow Cab is now serving a brand new ice cream flavor just for the holiday season. Two cool new offerings fit for the ultimate season of celebrations...after all, 'tis the season for great pizza.

Since 2001, the Yellow Cab Pizza Co. has been specializing in authentic New York style pizza, and over the years has grown to over 90 outlets nationwide (including three overseas branches) serving its trademark pizzas and a continuously expanding menu. 

Sariwon: Authentic Korean Flavors at Bonifacio High Street

With so many dining options at The Fort, it can be quite daunting deciding where to eat. But if you're looking for authentic Korean flavors, head on to Sariwon.

Authentic and traditional Korean dishes, including Korean barbecue or bulgogi prepared and grilled right at your table. It was my first time at Sariwon, and thanks to OpenRice.com, I got to sample Sariwon's signature dishes with other bloggers.

Food News: Awesome New Dishes and Old Favorites at Village Tavern

Somethin's cookin' at Village Tavern...and it's seriously good. Village Tavern recently launched a new line of dishes to add to their current bestsellers, tweaking traditional favorites with refreshing modern twists.

Village Tavern, established in 1984 in North Carolina, has since been at the forefront of classic American cuisine, with its trademark dishes from the east coast as well as southwestern favorites. Classic comfort food steeped in tradition yet updated with modern flavors. What's even more interesting is that Village Tavern's Head Corporate Chef based in North Carolina is a Filipina, Mary Grace Viado Howard. Her culinary experience began with stints at Italianni's Manila and top restaurants in New York such as Aquavit, Le Cirque and Aureole before landing the top post in Village Tavern in 2002. Cool.

Steak, Ribs and A Burger at Bulgogi Brothers

Looking for steak and ribs grilled right at your table? Check out Bulgogi Brothers...

After sampling some of Bulgogi Brothers' signature dishes at the Subic Freeport (check out my previous post here at http://dude4food.blogspot.com/2012/10/food-news-bulgogi-brothers-opens-in.html), I decided to come back and try the steak and ribs at the Greenbelt 5 branch. The warm welcome, courteous and efficient service and clean interiors are consistent in both branches, which is comforting. 

Chocolate Love and More at Slice

Feel the need for a serious chocolate rush? Then Slice just might be the place for you. Read on and enjoy the ride...

Earning raves from its line of cupcakes, there's definitely more to Slice than desserts. Slice offers a fresh take on old favorites and new dishes in a cool and casual venue where one can simply relax and chill, a perfect spot for diners to take a "slice" of some of the coolest flavors on Bonifacio High Street.

A Burger, Pizza, Dessert and Coffee at Cafe 1771

Its been quite some time since I last visited El Pueblo, and it was great to be invited by OpenRice.com to sample Cafe 1771's dishes.

Cafe 1771, part of the Chateau 1771 Group of Restaurants which includes the flagship Chateau 1771, Sentro 1771, The WineBar and Side Bar, have always been long-time favorites. Cafe 1771 continues the Chateau Group's culinary tradition with an excellent range of dishes, from mains to desserts.

Food News: Bulgogi Brothers Opens in Subic

Bulgogi Brothers recently opened its fourth branch at Riverwalk Harbor Point in Subic, bringing its brand of authentic Korean cuisine to Subic residents. Currently with three branches located in Greenbelt 5, Alabang Town Center and SM Mall of Asia,  the Subic branch is part of an on-going expansion program with two more provincial locations in the pipeline. 

Bulgogi, or Korean Barbecue, literally means "fire meat," referring to highly seasoned meats on a grill. And at Bulgogi Brothers, you get to taste premium meats grilled and served right at your table.

Sakae Sushi: An Afternoon Sushi Frenzy

A late afternoon at the Mall of Asia, and a lot of time to kill...

Perfect time for sushi at Sakae Sushi, and with its Eat-All-You-Can package, how can you resist? If you want sushi with the most bang for your buck, this is the place.

Food News: Diamond Hotel Opens The Lobby Lounge

Diamond Hotel Philippines recently opened the Lobby Lounge, the newest dining attraction offering some of the best culinary treats this side of the city, including Diamond Hotel's signature coffee and desserts.

The Lobby Lounge is nicely tucked in a corner, intimate yet casual, just the perfect place for a leisurely meal,   a cup of coffee or some late night cocktails. Great for business meetings or family gatherings, The Lobby Lounge's culinary offerings are extensive to satisfy any craving, from savory meals and snacks to indulgent desserts.

Greeka Kouzina: A Taste of Greece in San Juan

I recently got a tip from my cuz about this new new place serving Greek cuisine, and the awesome Lamb Roast. Mention roast lamb and I'm there...

Opened less than a month ago, it's nice to know that there is another establishment offering Greek cuisine. Parking was full, usually a good sign. After reviewing the menu, I go for the Arni Lemonato (P 490+), Greeka Kouzina's Lamb Roast. Since I was alone, the waitress did mention that the order was good for 2-3 persons, and after giving it some thought, decided to go for it anyway.

Food News: Italianni's Launches Cool New Dishes

Cool things are happening at Italianni's. Italianni's introduces several new dishes including salads, pasta, pizza and desserts to an expanding menu, offering diners more choices and more reasons to visit Italianni's. 

I've always enjoyed the traditional, family-style atmosphere at Italianni's, making it one of my favorite go-to places for a good pasta. Great food and excellent service, it feels like coming home every time I visit.

What's in the Fridge... Muffins, Ham and Eggs

Found some muffins and a few slices of Majestic Ham...another fridge raid in the works.

Toast the muffins and add a dab of butter. Place the slices of Majestic Ham, then top with a sunny side up. Perfect.

Dessert du Jour's Gateau de Crepes

Everyone seemed to gravitate towards this large pink box on the table, something was definitely up. Curious, I had to join in and check it out as well...

Sundays at my Aunt's place always means good food. And this particular Sunday was no different.

A Perfect CAB Lunch at Melo's

Where do you go for one of the best US Certified Angus Beef (CAB) steaks? You go to Melo's, the one that started it all, the Home of Certified Angus Beef. Established way back in 1997, Melo's continues a tradition built on excellent CAB steaks. 

And a return to Melo's didn't disappoint. The melt-in-your mouth, buttery feel of premium beef, grilled to perfection, is an experience worth revisiting again and again. And the CAB Ribeye is tops on my list.

What's in the Fridge...Bagels and Cream Cheese

Two frozen bagels, some leftover cream cheese...and another fridge raid in the works. All you need now is a good cup of coffee for a light breakfast.

Lightly toasted Whole Wheat Cinnamon Raisin Bagels with a proper "schmear" of cream cheese. Sometimes the simplest things are in fact, the best things...

An All Seafood Lunch at Gerry's Grill

I met up with a group of old friends recently, and decided to have lunch at Gerry's Grill, just like the old days. But this time, we decided to have a healthier lunch, all seafood, no pork. And everything seemed to work out as planned. Almost.

The seafood selection at Gerry's Grill is quite extensive, and with so many choices, an all-seafood lunch can be a satisfying option. With much confidence and will power, we proceeded with our all-seafood lunch...

Dude for Food on Facebook, Like!

Yup, Dude for Food is now on Facebook. Finally. Check out the Dude for Food Facebook Page for regular updates on good eats. Just type "Dude for Food" on the FB search bar to access the page, or simply click on the Facebook widget "Like" button on the lower right (below the "Pages" box) here on the blog page. Cool.

Please visit the Dude for Food FB page, better yet, click "Like." Thanks!