DUDE FOR FOOD: October 2012

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

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.