Dining in the Next Normal: Elevating Familiar Dishes with US Lamb and US Kurobuta Pork Belly from Alternatives Food Corporation

Comforting homestyle recipes are transformed with premium US meats weaving fresh and bold flavors to any dish. Level up your home kitchen game this holiday season and beyond with the savory offerings from Alternatives Food Corporation...

Alternatives Food Corporation or simply AFC is your source of premium US meats including world-class beef, pork, lamb, chicken and seafood conveniently delivered to your doorstep. The new normal and changing consumer habits continue to define a challenging year due to the global pandemic as dining at home became the rule rather than exception. Home kitchens were fired up once more, and cherished family recipes graced our tables as families dined together. The quarantine experience may have changed the way we go about our daily routine, but it also brought us closer together with the kitchen re-emerging as the center of memorable family activities. Your home kitchen adventures are kicked up a notch with the impressive selection of US meats and seafood from Alternatives Food Corporation, transforming well-loved recipes with an indulgent spin. Ready to cook? Read on... 

Dining in the Next Normal: Celebrating Christmas on Zoom with Resorts World Manila

The new normal may keep us apart during the holidays, but there are countless ways to reconnect with friends and family in this most anticipated season of the year...

One is never too far away from loved ones, more so in these challenging times with the lingering threat of a global pandemic. In a novel and innovative approach to this new normal, Resorts World Manila celebrates the holidays online with "I'll be ZOOM for Christmas" bringing holiday cheer and a whole lot of good vibes to end the year on a high note. 

Dining in the Next Normal: Comforting Noodles and a Cold Beer on a Cloudy Afternoon at Menya Kokoro

Cloudy afternoons call for a cold beer. And comforting mazesoba...

Dining out under the General Community Quarantine is both different and the same, with the mandatory health and safety protocols in place. But an ice-cold bottle of beer and a hearty bowl of mazesoba on a cloudy afternoon still hits the spot even in this new normal. Menya Kokoro has adapted to the times implementing all the necessary steps from physical distancing to temperature scans and contact tracing so loyal customers can once again enjoy a bowl of their specialty noodles. One of the first to offer D-I-Y Kits of their signature Tokyo Mazesoba and Black Garlic Ramen during the quarantine (more on my previous post, Dining in the Next Normal: Unboxing Menya Kokoro's New D-I-Y Tokyo Mazesoba and Black Garlic Ramen Kits on the innovative ramen kits and my quarantine round-up of fresh noodle picks on my post at Dining in the Next Normal: Let's Talk Noodles...), Menya Kokoro ends the year with new additions on the menu like the Unagi Mazesoba. Read on for a sneak peek at Menya Kokoro's all-time favorites and new offerings...

Dining in the Next Normal: A Sumptuous Feast at Home with the Surf & Turf Party Platter from Meatsumo Premium Panay

Black Angus Aburi over Umami Steak Rice with Homemade Sweet Potato Chips and Aji Tamago paired with Ebi Tempura and Assorted Tempura, now that's a serious feast at home. Meet the Surf & Turf Party Platter from Meatsumo Premium Panay in Quezon City...

Meatsumo Premium Panay now offers Party Platters for take-out and delivery just in time the holidays. Each Party Platter by Meatsumo Premium Panay is a convenient and tasty savory feast option for the family at prices that's easy on the pocket. Following the same value plus variety concept of their Korean bbq dining experience with their signature "Seoul Meets Tokyo" Asian fusion culinary style, the Party Platters add a festive vibe to any family feast at home (for more on Meatsumo Premium Panay, see my previous post, Value and Variety Fresh from the Grill at Meatsumo Premium Panay).

Dining in the Next Normal: Spotted at the Ultimate Taste Test 2020 Master's Edition in Gallery MiraNila by The Blue Leaf

For over twelve years, the Ultimate Taste Test has become the launch pad for many successful home-based food businesses and entrepreneurs including the now famous Pepita's Kitchen by the Lechon Diva, Carmen's Best Ice Cream and Risa Chocolates. For the 2020 Ultimate Taste Test Master's Edition, the tradition continues in this new normal showcasing twenty-two food entrepreneurs that began their home-based food businesses during the quarantine...

The year began just like any other year with a lot of optimism and hope, but 2020 had other plans. A series of natural calamities followed by a global pandemic changed all that. The food service sector, and pretty much everything else, were put on hold as the new normal transformed the way we go about our daily routine. As a challenging year comes to a close, the Ultimate Taste Test 2020 Master's Edition by Our Awesome Planet ends the year on a high note with its long-running UTT series highlighting twenty-two food businesses born out of the quarantine. Creativity and resiliency shined bright in this new normal and just like the previous editions, the Ultimate Taste Test series provides a snapshot of the metro's latest culinary finds and trends. Take a peek at next year's rising stars in the culinary scene with the Ultimate Taste Test 2020 Master's Edition...

Dining in the Next Normal: SixTop Picks That Will Change The Way You Look at Bibingka, Brownies, Kutsinta, Siopao, Korean Pull-Apart Bread and Banana Bread

You'll probably never look at bibingka, brownies, kutsinta, siopao, Korean pull-apart bread and banana bread the same way again after a bite from these six top picks. Innovation and lavish spins transform the comfortingly familiar into refreshingly new flavor experiences with these inventive finds in this new normal. 

The quarantine imposed new practices and consumer habits that altered the way we go about our daily routine. And this new normal continues to change and transform everything we know and do forcing many to adapt with the times. For the hard-hit food service sector, pivoting to pick-up, take-out and food delivery enabled businesses to remain relevant while others chose to create and reinvent popular staples and elevate it to class of its own. Adie's Delight, The Drunk Baker, Aida's Black Kutsinta, MPantry, Lola Ester's and Chef Sau del Rosario offer their own unique and creative reinterpretations on the staples we love. Here's six top picks that changed the game during the quarantine...

Dining in the Next Normal: Legit Picks. Experience Authentic Flavors at Home with Spanish, Chinese, Korean and Regional Filipino Cuisine Delivered to Your Doorstep

Embark on a culinary journey with authentic flavors without leaving home with these legit picks in this new normal...

Authenticity wasn't easy to find even before the pandemic, but these legit picks allowed you to experience real flavors during the quarantine. In this new normal, we've seen quite a number of culinary trends emerging along with changing consumer habits. The rise of the food delivery culture, ease of preparation and convenience make these authentic picks rank high in terms of overall value. Here's eight legitimate culinary picks to add to your list of food delivery options for this year and the next...

Dining in the Next Normal: All-You-Can-Eat Dim Sum Weekends at New World Makati's Jasmine

 This weekend, make it all-you-can-eat dim sum at Jasmine...

More and more establishments are slowly re-opening from a prolonged quarantine as the year comes to a close, including hotels and their signature food outlets. With the latest health and safety protocols in place, you can now enjoy All-You-Can-Eat Dim Sum at New World Makati's elegant Jasmine for Lunch and Dinner on Saturdays and Lunch on Sundays for only P 1,088 net per person. Dim sum this weekend? 

Paint it Black: Kumori Japanese Bakery & Cafe and BLK 513 Team Up for the Charcoal Melon Pan

Kumori Japanese Bakery & Cafe ends the year with yet another creative collaboration adding to its long list of innovative offerings...

Kumori Japanese Bakery & Cafe and BLK 513 come together for a novel collab with the new Charcoal Melon Pan, an inventive spin on Kumori's popular bun filled with cream cheese and draped in activated charcoal cookie crust. Kumori Japanese Bakery & Cafe's specialty bun covered with BLK 513's activated charcoal cookie crust combine for an elegant variation and a new flavor experience. One bite, and you'll agree no other bun is like it. 

Keeping it Simple: Chef Myke "Tatung" Sarthou Launches Simpol The Cookbook at Pandan Asian Cafe

"Lesson Number 1: Keep it simpol. Always prep and organize." 

Noted chef, author and TV personality Myke "Tatung" Sarthou starts with a basic fundamental in his fourth cookbook in a manner and style that endeared him to his fans, followers and subscribers on his social media platforms. Like any major endeavor or battle, preparation is key to the success of any venture. It's a universal rule that also applies in the home kitchen. 

Chef Myke "Tatung" Sarthou recently launched his latest cookbook, Simpol The Cookbook, with a sumptuous lunch at Pandan Asian Cafe. In his fourth book, Chef Tatung encourages his readers to be inventive, resourceful and creative making cooking traditions more relevant and fun. With 101 recipes, each with a QR Code that links to a cooking video, Simpol The Cookbook is homestyle cooking that's as simple as A-B-C. 

Dining in the Next Normal: Fill Up Your Cookie Jar with These Cookie Picks...

The holiday season is the perfect time to pause and reflect on what matter most. It's been a challenging year, and we all need to take stock of all the changes in this new normal while moving forward. It's also the time to replenish your cookie jars...

This Christmas, fill your cookie jar to the brim with these indulgent fresh-baked cookie finds conveniently delivered to your doorstep. And it's a great gift-giving idea too, if you can somehow restrain yourself from grabbing a bite. Here's five cookie picks that I enjoyed in this new normal...

Dining in the Next Normal: Indulgent Grazing for the Holidays with the Holigraze Feast by Mrs. V Restobar

It's been a year of challenges and 2020 continues to reshape and transform our daily routine making the coming holidays unique and different. As social distancing remains the rule in the new normal, be creative and reconnect with family and friends in this season of giving with the specially-curated grazing boxes and holiday-set menu by Mrs. V Restobar...

Celebrating Christmas in the new normal takes on a special meaning as the lingering effects of the viral pandemic ends the year with a cautious note. The usual get-togethers with family and friends are now replaced with virtual reunions online via Zoom and social media, and now more than ever, giving the best gifts for the holidays becomes a meaningful form of connection. Redefining at-home celebrations in the season of giving, Mrs. V Restobar shares its limited edition handcrafted grazing boxes filled with gourmet cheeses, premium charcuterie, fresh fruits and wine and a lavish catering menu along with sumptuous platters with its Holigraze Feast. Wine and graze at home this holiday season with tasty nibbles to warm both the palate and body and begin the season of giving with an elegant spin from Mrs. V Restobar.

Dining in the Next Normal: Let's Talk Noodles...

Nothing says comfort food better than a bowl of noodles enjoyed at home. During the quarantine, we've seen both traditional as well as innovative expressions of the much loved staple warming both our palate and body in these challenging times. Here's a round up on my latest noodle picks in this new normal...

The new normal continues to change and transform consumer habits with dining at home and the food delivery culture emerging as the defining experience for the food service industry in a challenging year. The lingering uncertainty of the times left us isolated for most of 2020, yet a comforting bowl of noodles conveniently delivered to your doorstep would somehow make it all seem right even for just a moment. Restaurants, hotels and chefs have adapted to the new normal by offering their specialty noodles for pick-up, take-out and delivery. Read on and enjoy a tasty peek at some of the tastiest noodle offerings in the new normal this year...

Have A Merry Brotzeit Christmas with Brotzeit's Christmas Menu

For months since the lockdown, the coming holidays are just what everyone needs in this new normal. Brotzeit brings the holiday vibe with a lavish menu to end a challenging year for yet another reason to raise a toast...

Chef Ivan Maminta rolls out some holiday cheer with the sumptuous new Christmas Menu at Brotzeit. From starters to mains and dessert, Brotzeit teases the palate with a wide selection of holiday-themed dishes along with their specialty Bavarian offerings paired with authentic German beer. The only legitimate German beer bar and restaurant in the metro, diners and guests can enjoy a spot of Bavaria at the heart of the metro. Read on for a peek at the new Christmas menu of Brotzeit...

Dining in the Next Normal: Take A Big Bite With These Burger Picks

Perhaps no other dish exudes pure and classic americana than the iconic hamburger. Many claim to have invented it yet its history and origins remain ambiguous. But everyone agrees that it earned national recognition with its debut at the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair just like that other all-American favorite, the hotdog. And the burger continues to evolve with inspired takes on the classic as well as inventive spins for a new flavor experience. During the quarantine, we've seen nine savory burgers that pleased the palate earning another mention in the blog. Here's my latest quarantine edition round-up of burger picks...  

A juicy and savory slab of meat slapped on a bun just never fails to trigger one's appetite. From the usual fast food variety to gourmet creations, the ubiquitous burger has endured the test of time even in the new normal. Hotels, restaurants and chefs unveiled their burger offerings in response to changing consumer habits with dining at home on the uptrend and the continued rise of the food delivery culture. From classic flavors to innovative new expressions of the all-time favorite, here's nine savory burgers that are now available for delivery to your doorstep...

Dining in the Next Normal: Pick Your Pizza...

From classic flavors to playfully inventive and creative variations, the popular pizza made its way to our homes during the quarantine weaving comfortingly familiar notes as well as refreshingly new home dining experiences. Have a slice from some of the metro's finest and innovative offerings in another round up of fresh picks...

The new normal continues to change and transform our daily routine leaving its long-lasting impact in everything we do, but the popular pizza remains as popular as ever. We've seen inspired spins on the classic pizza as well as novel and unconventional expressions of the enduring staple during the lockdown, and here's another round up of fresh picks of your favorite slice...

Dining in the Next Normal: Fresh Picks Delivered to Your Doorstep

Since the lockdown back in March, it's hard to believe that more than eight months have passed in a new normal that has defined the way we go about our daily routine. And we all can't wait to see the year end. It's been a rough year, but there's always a silver lining to offset the anxious uncertainty of the times. Consumer habits continue to change and transform due to the lingering threat of the pandemic as dining at home and the food delivery culture emerged as one of the year's many lasting legacies. During the lockdown, we've discovered incredibly fresh dining options conveniently delivered to your home. Here's a rundown on some of the best and freshest delivery options that should be on your list... 

As quarantine restrictions gradually ease with the promise of a new vaccine expected by early next year, a renewed and much-needed sense of optimism ends a challenging year on a positive note. Isolated for months during the quarantine, access to fresh and premium produce seemed almost impossible. Yet despite the countless challenges, options for fresh seafood and premium meats delivered to your doorstep simply meant a few clicks or taps on your laptop or mobile device. Here's the year's freshest picks...

Dining in the Next Normal: Even in the New Normal, The Steaks Still Sizzle at Nanka Japanese Steakhouse

Despite the sweeping transformation in our daily routine caused by the viral pandemic, some things just don't change. Like a good steak. And the steaks still sizzle at Nanka Japanese Steakhouse even in the new normal...

The long-lasting impact of the quarantine experience forced the food service sector to adapt and evolve to shifting consumer habits. And just like many other restaurants, Nanka Japanese Steakhouse now follows all the mandatory health protocols to ensure a safe dining experience. The wide and spacious interiors allow more than adequate social and physical distancing for your peace of mind. In spite of the numerous additional layers that are now part of the dining out experience, one thing always remains the same. A good premium steak, masterfully grilled to medium rare, is still high up on the list. And at Nanka Japanese Steakhouse, Chef Mike Santos and his team keeps the grill fired up for your perfect steak. 

Dining in the Next Normal: Grand Hyatt Manila Brings Grand Tidings for the Holiday Season

It's been a year of extreme challenges that we all wish would soon be over. This year, the much-awaited holidays will be celebrated unlike any other, yet at the heart of the of the season is the familiar warmth of reuniting with family and friends over a sumptuous feast in a new normal that has defined and shaped the year. Bring back the joy and sparkle we've missed to end the year on a bright and positive note at Grand Hyatt Manila...  

Grand Hyatt Manila brings grand tidings with their festive culinary offerings created by Executive Chef Mark Hagan for a grand holiday experience. From the hotel's The Grand Kitchen to The Lounge, up high at The Peak and down below at The Pool House, exclusive private dining at The Cellar, decadent holiday cakes at Florentine to a Grand Holiday Getaway for a memorable staycation to traditional Christmas dishes delivered to your home, Grand Hyatt Manila lets you celebrate the season with your health and wellbeing first above all else. You too can experience the Grand Hyatt Manila's grand holiday experience with their indulgent Christmas High Tea at The Lounge along with their other delectable offerings in this most festive of seasons...

Dining in the Next Normal: Recalling Days of Noodles and Dumplings at Paradise Dynasty Before the Lockdown

If I remember, it was one of the last few dining out experiences before the lockdown. Bowls of fresh noodles and platters of sumptuous dumplings, the usual suspects with every visit at Paradise Dynasty were always at the core of our dining experience. Little did we know that everything was about to change...

News of a viral pandemic in Wuhan, China broke the news as early as December last year but I, like many others, didn't see the need to raise the alarm. Like past experiences with the bird flu and SARS, we all thought that our distance from the mainland would be enough. But Covid-19 was unlike any virus previously encountered. Globalization and the continuing rise in foreign travel helped spread the virus and by March, the extent of the pandemic reached worldwide proportions. Technological advancements in travel made the world a smaller place but it also made it more vulnerable to the spread of viral threats. It's a lot to take in, but that was farthest from our minds that day in Paradise Dynasty...

Dining in the Next Normal: Resorts World Manila Launches Grand Fiesta Manila Holiday Offerings with 11 Thrills of Christmas

It's been a year of extreme challenges, with the lingering effects of the new normal transforming and changing our daily routine. But you can end the year on a high note and set the tone for the coming new year...

Resorts World Manila launches a two-month long property wide holiday season promotion starting November 11 dubbed Grand Fiesta Manila 2020 with its 11 Days of Christmas Thrills to mark 11 memorable years as the country's premier integrated tourist destination. Reflecting the sign of the times, the launch was announced in a virtual press conference held online last November 11 on YouTube. To make the online event even more special, Resorts World Manila sent a sumptuous feast featuring their latest culinary creation, BAD Burgers to the homes of media representatives invited to the virtual press con. The virtual press con unveiled some truly exciting offers and activities starting November 11 at Resorts World Manila, read on for an exclusive peek...

Dining in the Next Normal: Chef Mike Santos Unveils His New Burger Creations at Nanka Japanese Steakhouse

Chef Mike Santos is serious about his burgers. One look at his creations and you'll see why his burgers are making waves on the net and your social media feed. Scroll down for a closer look at the new burger line-up at Nanka Japanese Steakhouse...

For over a year now, Nanka Japanese Steakhouse along Mother Ignacia corner Roces Avenue has become a dining destination up north under the helm of Chef Mike Santos. With their wide array of Japanese-inspired savory offerings from succulent seafood to prime steaks, Chef Mike continues to create and expand his menu and he's been busy. The new Nanka Burgers offer even more reasons to visit this hidden gem in Quezon City.

Dining in the Next Normal: Enjoy #NovotelManilaAtHome with Take Me Out by Novotel Manila

Novotel Manila takes dining at home seriously. With its wide selection of specialty dishes available for pick-up, take-out and delivery coupled with value packed offers and daily specials, Novotel Manila goes all-out for the emerging home dining trend in the new normal... 

Shifting consumer habits due to the quarantine experience have forced the food service industry, including hotels, to adapt and evolve in response to the new normal. Dining at home and the food delivery culture have become the norm rather than exception as our daily routine continues to change and transform as a result of the pandemic. Take Me Out by Novotel Manila is an innovative response to this emerging consumer trend and Novotel Manila pulls all the stops with its wide selection of tempting specialty dishes. 

Dining in the Next Normal: From Baguio to Manila, Le Chef at The Manor Comes to You with Their Fresh-Baked Bread, Cookies, Jams and Marmalades

The lingering fragrant aroma of fresh baked bread and cookies fill the air as bottles of fruit jams and marmalades tied with colorful ribbons remind you that the holidays are just around the corner... 

Get into the festive holiday vibe with the sumptuous offerings of Le Chef at The Manor by one of the metro's celebrated chefs, Billy King. But you don't have to drive all the way up north, Le Chef at The Manor now comes to you with Le Chef at The Manor in Manila...

Art for Everyone: Cartellino Launches First Edition at Gallery by Chele

As the quarantine experience continues to change and transform our daily routine, the need to feed our eyes and soul with the finest local contemporary art remain equally as important for some semblance of normalcy. An innovative new online platform promises a unique and engaging experience to reconnect with the local art scene, and even own limited edition prints signed by artists to add to your collection. Prepare for a visual feast with First Edition by Cartellino...

An online only platform, digest and shop, Cartellino reimagines and reconstructs the art experience with digital possibilities to interface with artists, collectors and enthusiasts to support the visual arts. Cartellino takes this experience a step further with the launch of First Edition providing ease of access and making art available for everyone. Starting November 16 to 30, First Edition will hold a special two-week run of limited edition archival prints from over a hundred artists for enthusiasts and collectors built on the mission of art supporting its practitioners and selected charities. At the launch held in Gallery by Chele last November 6, the experience of nourishing both the eyes and palate becomes complete with the masterful culinary creations of Chef Chele Gonzalez.

Dining in the Next Normal: Setting the Standard for Authentic Japanese Cuisine for 50 Flavorful Years at Kimpura

It was the restaurant that defined our love affair with Japanese food, setting the standard for authentic Japanese cuisine along the way. And for fifty flavorful years, Kimpura continues to trigger fond memories of that first and memorable experience with their wide array of specialty dishes. Few restaurants have stood the test of time and as Manila's culinary scene adapts to the new normal, one brand turns another page in a continuing story of memorable food moments.

You can say it started the Japanese food trend back in the seventies, pioneering the way for the popularity of authentic Japanese cuisine in the metro. The name of the iconic institution is a combination of two words roughly translated as "golden tempura" and it still resonates to this day. As it celebrates its milestone 50th anniversary, Kimpura takes you back to that first time you experienced authentic Japanese flavors. An enduring brand built on history and tradition, the passion for perfection continues and Kimpura is ready for the new normal with its classic dishes and service.

Five Dishes. Five Winners. Bord Bia Announces Winners of the East Meets West Culinary Competition

Young upcoming chefs recreate their best dishes inspired by local flavors using world class Irish beef and pork and soon on their way to a memorable culinary tour of the Emerald Isle...

From hundreds of aspiring chefs and home cooks, the East Meets West Culinary Competition by The Irish Food Board or BordBia and the EU Pork and Beef PH culminated in the awarding of five talented young chefs last October 27, 2020 at the Grand Hyatt Manila and are now set for a memorable culinary tour of Ireland. The final five dished out their best with a creative and sumptuous array of dishes infused with local flavors and showcased how premium Irish beef and pork elevates any savory dish (for more on the competition, see my previous posts, Food News: East Meets West in a Culinary Competition by the Irish Food Board on the competition's launch back in August and Food News: Top Ten Semi-Finalists for Bord Bia's East Meets West Culinary Competition Revealed  on the semi-finalists leading to the final five). Read on for a tasty peek of the competitions...

Dining in the Next Normal: Serve Up the Pambansang Seafood For All at Home with the Seafood Bilaos of Dampa Express

Local seafood restaurants have always been popular with large groups and families serving the day's freshest catch. But the new normal changed all that, as it continues to transform every aspect of our daily routine. In very rare cases, seafood seems to be pandemic-proof as food deliveries and take-out continue to grow and compensate for lost dine-in revenues for one seafood restaurant chain. For this trailblazing seafood restaurant, it's all about affordability, accessibility and accelerated service...

Dampa Express, the country's largest seafood restaurant chain and the biggest end-user of fresh local crabs, remains top-of-mind when it comes to affordable, fast and convenient seafood a la carte specialties even during the pandemic. Owner Simon Lim, Jr., also known as the "Dampa King," successfully expanded and built on the "dampa" or seafood market-style concept by simplifying it. "Customers do not have to spend too much money on live seafood, worry about picking the right shellfish or getting the weight of crabs for your family and wait a long time for your orders to be cooked," said the Dampa King. You'll find none of that at Dampa Express. Instead, groups and families can opt for a tempting variety of family-sized seafood sets, a trademark of Dampa Express, like the sumptuous Seafood Bilao offering both fresh and rich flavors and value for money without busting your wallet.

To stay relevant in the new normal, keeping it simple works. "Our strength is that we've tried to do away with all the inconveniences and complications of most seafood restaurants and dared to go against the trend of posh high-brow exclusivity." It's a formula that's worked so well for Dampa Express as it continues to rack up its daily sales. And you can bring home the Dampa Express experience too... 

Dining in the Next Normal: Seize Your Slice of Life with Firehouse Pizza on its First Anniversary

Even in the new normal, we all need to seize a bigger slice out of life. Firehouse Pizza lets you have it as it celebrates its first anniversary with a cool value-packed offer.

Crimson Hotel Filinvest City Manila is soon becoming the dining destination of the south with its specialty outlets like Baker J (more on the French-inspired boulangerie and patisserie on my previous post, Dining in the Next Normal: Baker J Brings Classic Pastries and Artisan Bread with a French Flair to Your Home and Office), Cafe 8 (more on Cafe 8 from their earlier themed offering on my earlier post from 2017, Fresh: A Taste of Vietnam at Crimson Hotel's Cafe 8) and Firehouse Pizza, now celebrating its milestone first anniversary. 

Since it opened last year, Firehouse Pizza has established a reputation as the go-to pizza joint in southern Metro Manila. With its specialty pizza masterfully created from oven to plate, enjoy a bigger slice out of life as Firehouse Pizza celebrates its first year of pizza perfection with a value-loaded offer. Hungry? Read on...

Dining in the Next Normal: Celebrate Oktoberfest with a Local Vibe at Home with Resorts World Manila's TASTE October Fiesta Package

Good food and refreshing rounds of beer, it's Oktoberfest. Celebrate Oktoberfest in the new normal while staying at home with the value-packed offerings of Resorts World Manila... 

Starting October 9 to 31, Resorts World Manila celebrates Octoberfest with its TASTE October Fiesta featuring sumptuous Oktoberfest inspired dining packages for pick-up, take-out or conveniently delivered to your home. As the new normal changes and transforms the way we go about our daily routine, Resorts World Manila adapts and evolves with the times with themed offerings available for home dining. Raise a toast and roll out the barrels and celebrate Oktoberfest at home with cold brews and hearty bites in the new normal with Resorts World Manila's Taste October Fiesta...

Dining in the Next Normal: Bring Home the 22 Prime Experience from Discovery Suites Manila

As restrictions gradually ease, the grills are once again fired up and the steaks are back from one of the country's finest steakhouses...

22 Prime at Discovery Suites Manila reopens for dine-in and reservations serving their specialty steaks, seafood and other savory dishes. But if you prefer to bring home the 22 Prime experience and enjoy a sumptuous feast in the safety and comfort of your home, that can be arranged as well with just one quick call. Executive Chef Gerwin Bailon and 22 Prime will gladly prepare your favorite dishes and pack it in a box for take-out, pick-up or delivery. In the new normal, 22 Prime now comes to you...

Dining in the Next Normal: Bigger. Juicier. Tastier. That's How They Do It at Tito Paolo's Inasal...

How can you improve on a traditional local specialty? Pull all the stops and make it bigger, juicier and tastier...

That's exactly what they did, transforming the popular dish adding flavor, value and more bang for the buck with their specialty chicken inasal. Tito Paolo's Inasal elevates the chicken inasal game with bigger, juicier and tastier offerings for a refreshingly new home dining experience. Fresh off the grill and delivered to your doorstep, rediscover a local traditional staple fired up with a lavish spin from Tito Paolo's Inasal and you'll agree that bigger, juicier and tastier makes this probably the best inasal in the metro. 

Dining in the Next Normal: CCYG Il Terrazo Adds Chicken to Their Unlimited Pork and Beef Korean BBQ Samgyup Sets

A sumptuous beef and pork Korean BBQ feast gets even better with the addition of tender and juicy chicken for even more flavor and value... 

That's right. Chung Choon Yeon Ga at Il Terrazo in Quezon City, or simply CCYG QC, levels up the Korean BBQ dining experience with juicy chicken along with their specialty beef and pork offerings. Available for dine-in where you can enjoy unlimited servings or for take-out, pick-up and delivery as part of their Samgyup Set, CCYG levels up their Korean BBQ game with the addition of Galbi Chicken, Salt-Grilled Chicken and Gochujang Chicken to their line-up of savory pork and beef offerings. CCYG is a Korean brand, and authenticity sets it apart from the clutter of Korean BBQ joints in the metro (for more on CCYG Il Terrazo, see my earlier post, Dining in the Next Normal: Enjoy a Sumptuous Korean BBQ Feast at Home with Korea's Number One BBQ, Chung Choon Yeon Ga Unlimited Unlimited Korean BBQ). Now you can enjoy juicy chicken Korean BBQ at home too...

Dining in the Next Normal: Matteo's Kitchen by OCMommaPH Brings Comforting Favorites to Your Table

Cheesy Baked Macaroni, Baked Mashed Potato and Banana Crunch Loaf, comforting staples on everyone's list of favorites. One more home kitchen is fired up serving these tasty classics so you can enjoy it fresh from the ovens in the safety and comfort of your home...

Matteo's Kitchen by OCMommaPh joins the growing ranks of home-based food businesses in the new normal with its own take on all all-time favorites like the Cheesy Baked Macaroni, Baked Mashed Potato and Banana Crunch Loaf. As the quarantine experience continues to transform and change consumer habits, home kitchens like Matteo's Kitchen and the rise of the food delivery culture adds even more options to your home dining experience. 

Dining in the Next Normal: Build Your Own Pizza with The Nostalgia Lounge & Bar's Latest Offering

Following the successful introduction of their lavish Signature Pancit, The Nostalgia Lounge & Bar offers yet another tasty innovation conveniently delivered to your doorstep... 

The Nostalgia Lounge & Bar of Joy-Nostalg Hotel & Suites Manila introduces another tempting and innovative offering with the Build Your Own Pizza, baked fresh to your specs and delivered straight to you. Choose your preferred savory toppings, cheese and flavor boosters for your customized artisan pizza, fired up fresh from the ovens of The Nostalgia Lounge & Bar. The Nostalgia Lounge & Bar is constantly creating new dishes while adding its own creative spin to dining at home, like their Signature Pancit loaded with premium scallops, prawns, mahi-mahi, tuna, salmon and barbecued pork (for more on The Nostalgia Lounge & Bar's indulgent take on the local noodle dish, see my post, Dining in the Next Normal: The Nostalgia Lounge & Bar Elevates Your Favorite Local Noodles with the Lavish Signature Pancit). Ready to build your own pizza? Read on...

Dining in the Next Normal: The Pork Project Presents The Pupor and Kambing Na May K, Now Available for Delivery

Chef Redd Agustin's been busy at The Pork Project, picking up the pace in the new normal with new dishes...

A hearty crunch with a solid and flavorful punch and a comforting local classic, two more tasty options to add to your list of favorite food deliveries in the new normal. Chef Redd Agustin and The Pork Project introduces sumptuous new offerings available for delivery, packed and sealed and ready-to-heat and eat at home. With regular delivery dates posted on The Pork Project's Facebook Page, mark your calendars for the next round of schedules as Chef Redd Agustin brings his comforting offerings to the metro (for more on Chef Redd Agustin and The Pork Project, see my previous post, Dining in the Next Normal: Chef Redd Agustin's The Pork Project Rolls Out Savory New Offerings). 

Dining in the Next Normal: Sending Out a Tasty Message in a Bottle with Ulam in a Bottle PH

The rise of home-based food businesses and the food delivery culture continues to flourish in the new normal, and one family sends out flavorful messages in a bottle... 

Laing, Guinataang Langka and Binagoongang Bagnet. Fresh, home-cooked meals packed and sealed in a bottle is just one of many innovations spotted during the quarantine experience. Ulam in a Bottle PH is exactly that, savory local dishes bottled and delivered to your doorstep. Think of it as a tasty and flavorful message in a bottle, just open it up for a satisfying meal. How? Simply send a message on FB and IG and your sumptuous Ulam in a Bottle is on its way to you... 

Dining in the Next Normal: A Healthy Diet is Your First Line of Defense in the New Normal with Quaker Oats and #QuakerStrongRecipes

The quarantine experience allowed many of us to once again revisit our home kitchen, preparing comforting meals as dining at home became the new normal. It also pushed many of us to be more creative in the kitchen with healthier recipes...

We've seen quite a number of creative food trends and innovations during the past few months as consumer habits continue to change, evolve and adapt to the new normal. But as the threat of the viral pandemic lingers, preparing hearty and comforting dishes with health benefits becomes even more important. After all, your first line of defense is a healthy diet. Quaker, the world's number one oatmeal brand, steps in to transform your quarantine kitchen experience with delicious and healthy recipes that's not only tasty but easy to prepare as well. Read on and spark up some fun in your kitchen with this indulgent yet easy and healthy Quaker Oats Cream Pie recipe... 

Dining in the Next Normal: A Healthy Boost in a Jar of White Fungus Dessert from The Ordinary Sip

As more tempting offerings become available for dining at home and food delivery, we need to take a serious look at healthy options in the new normal. The Ordinary Sip does exactly that as it brings a refreshingly sweet and healthy boost in a jar...

In the new normal, we need to balance and supplement our diet with healthier options but who knew you could do this with a refreshing dessert? The Ordinary Sip brings a traditional delicacy packed and sealed in a jar loaded with countless health benefits such as immunity booster and anti-aging qualities. All these in a jar. And in a lingering viral pandemic, you need all the help you can get to strengthen your first line of defense. A healthy boost that tastes good too, add a few jars of the White Fungus Dessert by The Ordinary Sip to your pantry with a quick call or message via Facebook or Instagram. 

Dining in the Next Normal: When A Serious Case of Munchies Strikes, Bring Out the Nacho Bake by Nacho Macho MNL

An epic movie marathon, the NBA Bubble Finals, or just another quarantine day in the new normal, when a serious craving of munchies hits, just give in and go with the flow with Nacho Macho MNL... 

The quarantine experience forced many of us to stay home as dining at home and the rise of the food delivery culture continue to shape and define the new normal. Another day at home in the quarantine usually results in occasional bouts of the munchies. Crisp nachos and a savory dip with juicy beef, cheese, refried beans and jalapeños comes top-of-mind when a case of the munchies strikes. And when it does strike, no worries. Just give Nacho Macho MNL a call or simply send a message via Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nachomachomnl and IG at https://www.instagram.com/nachomacho.mnl/. and your sumptuous Nacho Bake is on its way to you...

Dining in the Next Normal: Baker J Brings Classic Pastries and Artisan Bread with a French Flair to Your Home and Office

The metro's newest patisserie + boulangerie opens at Crimson Hotel Filinvest City, Manila offering artisan bread, indulgent pastries and other delicacies with an elegant French spin...

The current quarantine experience may have limited the dine-in operations of all food establishments but for newly opened Baker J at Crimson Hotel Filinvest City, Manila, that simply means going online to reach their target market. The new normal continues to change the way we go about our daily routine with online access and transactions along with the emerging food delivery culture shaping consumer habits. Baker J is a patisserie + boulangerie redefined, infusing healthy and organic concepts with French flair with their wide selection of artisan breads, rustic sourdough, decadent cakes and pastries, intricate croissants, tartes and sandwiches freshly prepared by Baker J's passionate team of creative chefs. Take a closer peek at how a new establishment goes online in the new normal...  

Dining in the Next Normal: Tidtad, Kilayin, Sampelut and Other Nostalgic Flavors Delivered by Culinarya Pampanga

For some months now, our world as we know it seems to have stopped amidst the viral pandemic. It's a time to pause and appreciate the things that truly matter as fond memories of childhood favorites from simpler times keep popping up as a response to the new normal. Culinarya Pampanga lets you rediscover these comforting dishes conveniently delivered to your home...

Culinarya Pampanga takes you on a flavorful and nostalgic trip back in time with their wide array of traditional Capampangan dishes available for pick-up and delivery. The chefs behind Culinarya Pampanga are some of the country's finest led by Chef Sau del Rosario as they take Pampanga to your home dining table with classic savory Capampangan dishes and desserts. Dining at home is now the new normal and along with the rise of the food delivery culture defining new consumer habits, Culinarya Pampanga lets you revisit some of your childhood favorites for a memorable feast in the safety and comfort of your home (for more on Culinarya Pampanga and their authentic Capampangan offerings, see my previous post, Dining in the Next Normal: Nostalgic and Authentic Capampangan Flavors Comes to Your Home Dining Table with Culinarya Pampanga). Does Tidtad, Kilayin, Sampelut and Leche Flan trigger some food memories? Then, read on... 

Dining in the Next Normal: Showcasing the Diverse Stories of the Filipino Coffee Heritage with Yugto Cold Brew

An artisan product with unique packaging and distinctive branding come together in a seamless weave tied by a single-minded mission of preserving the Filipino coffee heritage...  

Hand-picked by local farmers and perfected by master roasters, there are so many rich and flavorful stories behind each bottle of cold brew by YugtoOfficialPH. Each soothing sip reveals a layer from this colorful tapestry of the continuing Filipino coffee story, as the local artisan coffee movement continues to flourish in the new normal. Here's a peek at the bold and robust flavors of Supremo and the indulgent notes of Las Filipinas by YugtoOfficialPH...

Food News: Top Ten Semi-Finalists for Bord Bia's East Meets West Culinary Competition Revealed

And then there were ten. From over a hundred entries in Bord Bia's East Meets West Culinary Competition, ten semi-finalists have been selected to advance to the final round... 

Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board, recently announced the ten semi-finalists who will advance to the final round of the East Meets West Culinary Competition where five winners will embark on a memorable culinary tour of Ireland as well as other prizes (for more on the culinary competition by Bord Bia, see my earlier post, Food News: East Meets West in a Culinary Competition by the Irish Food Board). The competition included a wide range of entries, from professionals to home chefs and even bloggers and influencers who showcased their specialty beef and pork dishes. The competition also highlighted the versatility and premium quality of Irish pork and beef in the winning dishes. Read on for the list of semi-finalists who may be on their way to the famed Emerald Isle...

Dining in the Next Normal: An All Bangus Feast Delivered by LA Boneless Bangus

Bonuan Boneless Shanghai, Bonuan Boneless Belly, Bonuan Boneless Relleno, Bonuan Boneless Daing and Bonuan Boneless Tinapa, pick your fresh catch...

LA³ Boneless Bangus brings its fresh catch of the day to your dining table with regular deliveries around the metro. Whether your cravings call for Bonuan Boneless Shanghai or crispy fried spring rolls, indulgent Bonuan Boneless Belly, sumptuous Bonuan Boneless Relleno, the classic Bonuan Boneless Daing and the smoky Bonuan Boneless Tinapa, LA³ Boneless Bangus will have it packed frozen and chilled, sealed and delivered to your doorstep...

Dining in the Next Normal: A Taste of Spain Delivered to Your Doorstep by Cocinalo.PH

Stuck at home for another day in the quarantine? Let your palate take you on a culinary journey of Spain with the authentic Spanish offerings of Cocinalo.PH... 

Escape to sunny Spain with authentic flavors like comforting croquetas and slow-cooked Belarria Saltsan created by Basque Chef Mikel Martija of Cocinalo.PH without leaving the safety and comfort of home. Best enjoyed fresh off the stove, oven or pan, each specialty dish is conveniently delivered ready-to-fry and heat so you can enjoy all the richness at its flavorful peak. Read on for a taste of comida made con mucho cariño from Cocinalo.PH...

Dining in the Next Normal: Mediterranean Flavors Continue to Shine at Discovery Primea's Restaurant Tapenade

The new normal continues to make sweeping changes in our daily routine, and dining out is transformed with health and safety protocols due to the lingering threat of the viral pandemic. This is how it will be for the rest of the year, with social distancing each step of the way. But the bright flavors of the Mediterranean still shine in the metro, if you know where to find it. 

Restaurant Tapenade of Discovery Primea reopens to the public, geared for the new normal defining the dining out experience for 2020. And vibrant Mediterranean flavors continue to shine bright in the new normal at Restaurant Tapenade...

Dining in the Next Normal: You've Had Your Sushi Bake, But Have You Tried the 1621 Sushi Pizza?

The impact of the quarantine experience will be felt for years as we all slowly adapt and transform to the new normal. The rise of the food delivery culture and dining at home are just some of the evolving consumer habits that define the new normal, but we've also seen some creative and innovative spins for unique home dining options...  

One of the enduring trends from the quarantine experience is the popular sushi bake that's still causing quite a stir on social media. But it's now time to move on and experience yet another culinary innovation with the inventive 1621 Sushi Pizza...

Dining in the Next Normal: The Nostalgia Lounge & Bar Elevates Your Favorite Local Noodles with the Lavish Signature Pancit

Inventive innovations continue to flourish in the new normal as The Nostalgia Lounge & Bar upgrades your favorite local noodle dish with an indulgent and elegant spin...

The Nostalgia Lounge & Bar of Joy-Nostalg Hotel & Suites Manila transforms a popular and familiar noodle dish with the Signature Pancit, a luxurious reinterpretation with succulent prawns, scallops, mahi-mahi, salmon, squid and barbecued pork for a new flavor experience in celebration of its 11th Anniversary. Read on for a closer look at the new Signature Pancit...

Dining in the Next Normal: The Passion for Baking Experienced with Every Slice by Otter Breads

Like life's pause button, the quarantine experience allowed a lucky few to rediscover their passion for baking as more home-based food businesses emerge in the wake of a pandemic. It's a story that's becoming a recurring narrative in the new normal presenting a tempting array of tasty options conveniently delivered to your doorstep...

The passionate craft of the blossoming sourdough culture is alive and well in the city, with small artisan batches made and dispatched on the net and social media. At the height of the pandemic, we've seen a solid sourdough movement emerge as home bakers test their skills with this specialty bread. And when two friends couldn't find good bread readily available during the lockdown, they decided to make their own. The passionate bakers behind Otter Breads are guided by their brand manifesto, artisan-style sourdough breads made accessible and available to the Filipino market. The result? Some of the best artisan sourdough bread available in the city. And they deliver too. Read on and find out more on Otter Breads...