Pages

Saturday, October 25, 2025

All Hail The Queen Of Wagyu: Teppanya Welcomes Japan's Famed Matsusaka Beef To Manila

There's Wagyu Beef, then there's Matsusaka Beef. Often referred to as the "Queen of Wagyu," Matsusaka Beef is one of the world's most coveted beef in the world prized for its exquisite marbling and rich butter-like texture and mouthfeel. And it's now in Manila. Soon you can indulge in the savory richness of the world famous beef at Teppanya and Sicilian Roast. The secret's out...


Straight from Ito Ranch in Japan's Mie Prefecture to Manila, the world acclaimed Matsusaka Beef is poised to elevate your Wagyu Beef dining experience in selected establishments. In partnership with local importer Prime Cuts by Doubleday, the rare Matsusaka Beef from the revered Ito Ranch Matsusaka Beef Farm will be made available to partner establishments starting with Teppanya and Sicilian Roast. Ready for a taste of the best? Then, read on...


At the formal launch in Shangri-La Plaza, Prime Cuts by Doubleday showcased its latest and probably most indulgent and luxurious offering to date with the arrival of Matsusaka Beef from Ito Ranch. That afternoon, the lucky guests experienced the rare savory richness of one of the world's legendary cuts of beef prepared by the skilled master chefs of Teppanya


At the event, Mark Pineda of Teppanya joined management of Prime Cuts by Doubleday, Ito Ranch and Sicilian Roast for the ceremonial toast festivities... 


...as wooden masu containing sake were distributed to guests. The rhythmic beat of taiko drums formally celebrated the much anticipated arrival of Matsusaka Beef to Manila. One of the acclaimed "Big Three" or Sandai Wagyu which includes Ōmi Beef and Kobe Beef, Matsusaka Beef are reared in extremely controlled conditions resulting in its buttery high fat-to-meat ratio, beautiful marbling, pure flavors and real fork-tender texture with only a small amount processed each year thus its premium prices due to its rarity and limited availability. It's called "Queen of Wagyu" simply because Matsusaka Beef comes only and exclusively from Japanese black female cows. 


Now let's take a closer look at Matsusaka Beef. The export of Matsusaka Beef is closely controlled and regulated thus its exclusive status. And with extremely limited quantities as opposed to commercial beef, you really can't blame the locals from wanting to keep this culinary gem for their own consumption. But thanks to Prime Cuts by Doubleday, diners can soon experience the rarest of premium beef. But this isn't the first time Matsusaka Beef was made available in the country. Previously, certain local establishments offered the premium beef but the partnership between Ito Ranch and Prime Cuts by Doubleday marks a milestone first. Ito Ranch is selective when it comes to its partners for worldwide distribution and Prime Cuts by Doubleday makes the cut as the enviable exclusive and official source of Japan's famous Matsusaka Beef


Established in 1953, Ito Ranch is Japan's most decorated Matsusaka producer with over 35 competition awards including a historic three year Grand Champion honors consistently ranking it as top-tier farm. It's a historic feat no other Japanese Matsusaka producer can claim. The formula for success? Simple. Pedigree and lineage, raising Japanese black cattle in a stress-free environment and fattening cattle much longer than the usual 25 months with its standard 35-month program resulting in high oleic concentration allowing the meat to melt at a low 12 degrees Celsius for that unmistakable butter-like texture. And lastly, a proprietary feed that remains a closely guarded family secret. 


All these combine for one of the world's best Wagyu beef experiences with its high fat, oleic acid concentration, intricate marbling and low melting point delivering an indulgent savory richness like no other. And that's why Matsusaka Beef is the rarest, most exclusive and expensive beef in the world. 


And soon, diners will experience a taste of the very best at Teppanya (for more on Teppanya, see my posts All Hail The Emperor: A Royal Feast With The New Emperor Set Menu At Teppanya In SM By The Bay from two years ago, Super Premium Unlimited Madness, The Ultimate Teppan Feast Upgrade At Teppanya In SM By The Bay from 2023, Fired Up For All-Out Teppanyaki: Teppanya Celebrates Its 5th Anniversary With The Insane Unlimited Madness Promotion from 2019 and Fire And Flavor: Setting The Stage For A Culinary Performance At Teppanya from six years back). What can diners expect at Teppanya? Imagine opulent bites of the special Nigiri and a lavish and sumptuous teppanyaki dining experience featuring Matsusaka Beef at Teppanya


And the moment guests eagerly waited for is finally happening as whole slabs of Matsusaka Beef are prepped by Teppanya for everyone to sample...


At the Teppanya booth, the prized Matsusaka Beef are delicately carved and sliced...


...lightly seared on a teppan grill and portioned for sampling servings...


...like the Sukiyaki with a light yet rich broth, tofu and fresh vegetables. The broth is immediately transformed by the decadent savory richness of the Matsusaka Beef draping the palate with its elegant lingering notes in just one sip and bite. The familiar and comforting flavors of sukiyaki teases the palate yet the flavors are nothing quite like previous experiences. It's sukiyaki taken a whole new level with Matsusaka Beef


Simply seasoned and garnished with thin slices of crisp garlic, Matsusaka Beef grilled to medium rare perfection is the best way to enjoy its pure, clean and unrestrained flavors as it slowmy melts in your mouth releasing even more intense notes. 


This is where all the tedious and meticulous protocols in raising Matsusaka Beef with generations-old family practices and traditions pays off in one juicy bite. 


And one bite just leads to another. The flavors are not overwhelmingly strong but elegantly refined and nuanced with its buttery richness. It's premium beef in a class all its own. 


And if you can't wait to secure a couple of premium slabs of Matsusaka Beef, you can order online via the Prime Cuts by Doubleday website and online store (link details at the bottom of the post).  


At the launch, the Matcha Latte by Maison Midori was the perfect libation with each sip cutting through the richness preparing your palate for another indulgent bite of Matsusaka Beef


Teppanya and Sicilian Roast will soon render their own lavish culinary expressions using the famed Matsusaka Beef in their menus, and that's definitely something to look forward to in the coming weeks. 


Access to the world's finest produce is slowly opening up and transforming the local dining scene. And with access to a constant supply of Matsusaka Beef, things can only get better. The rarest, most exclusive and expensive beef in the world isn't something you easily shrug off nor pass up. And thanks to Prime Cuts by Doubleday, Teppanya and Sicilian Roast, the new menus offering Matsusaka Beef provide new and memorable dining experiences without requiring a plane ticket. 

There's Wagyu beef, and there's Matsusaka Beef. And sooner than you think, you too can experience and savor the world's best at Teppanya and Sicilian Roast with the arrival of the "Queen of Wagyu". 

For more on Matsusaka Beef at Prime Cuts by Doubleday, visit their website and online store at https://dprimecuts.com/

For more on Teppanya and the availability of Matsusaka Beef, visit their FB Page and IG Feed at https://www.facebook.com/teppanyaphserendrabgc/https://www.facebook.com/TeppanyaSMNorthhttps://www.facebook.com/teppanyaeviahttps://www.facebook.com/TEPPANYAPHMOAhttps://www.facebook.com/TeppanyaPHShangriLaPlaza and https://www.instagram.com/teppanyaph/ for updates.

Dude for Food is now on Facebook and Instagram, check out the FB Page and IG Feed for regular updates on good eats. Better yet, click "Like" and "Follow" and enjoy the ride...just look for the FB and IG widgets on the right sidebar.

Thursday, October 23, 2025

Late Breakfast, Cocktails And The Proper Pour Over Coffee: A Day At H Proper Coffee Roasters In The Podium.

Spending half a day in one place isn't the usual plan, but H Proper Coffee Roasters isn't your usual coffee specialty shop. In addition to a stellar artisan coffee selection plus an innovative pour-over bar, you can also enjoy a variety of savory meals, fresh baked and sweet bites and even cocktails all in one place. Step inside and explore the possibilities all day at H Proper Coffee Roasters...


Now with two locations, H Proper Coffee Roasters brings an extensive and solid dining menu and cocktail offerings to enhance your coffee experience all-day long. Start with a late brunch followed by dessert, a round of cocktails and a pour-over session to cap your H Proper Coffee Roasters episode for a day well spent. Coffee? Pick your seat...

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

And Your Winners Of The Marriott International Sinagtala Philippine Culinary Arts Cup Are...

Sinigang, Kare-Kare, Inasal, Adobo and Sisig, classic and iconic Filipino staples that have defined our culinary heritage and identity on the global table. The challenge? Create the best rendition of each dish for possible inclusion in the global recipe database accessed by over 9,000 Marriott properties worldwide. And the result? Exquisite executions reflecting both tradition and a creative contemporary interpretation of comforting and familiar flavors. At the Marriott International Sinagtala Philippine Culinary Arts Cup... 


The best culinary talents from Manila Marriott Hotel, The Westin Manila, Clark Marriott Hotel, Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort and Sheraton Manila at Newport World Resort converged at the Ceremonial Hall of the Marriott Grand Ballroom to showcase their best versions of traditional dishes and move Filipino cuisine forward to a much wider global stage. The Marriott International Sinagtala Philippine Culinary Arts Cup is a novel and unique initiative from the prestigious property group going beyond just another mere competition by taking the next step in institutionalizing core Filipino recipes as a valuable reference and resource among Marriott kitchens around the world. And it all begins with Sinigang, Kare-Kare, Inasal, Adobo and Sisig... 

Sunday, October 19, 2025

Ribeye Done Right: Canada Beef Goes Global With The 6-Hands Dinner by Chefs James Antolin, Maverick Javier And Jovan Dungon At Ikomai

Three chefs, one epic dinner. Chef James Antolin of Ikomai along with Chefs Maverick Javier and Jovan Dungon share their creative renditions of Canadian Beef with the Canada Beef Goes Global 6-Hands Dinner for a culinary collaboration at Ikomai. From the amuse bouche and appetizers to the savory main ribeye courses and dessert, the lavish dinner celebrated both the finest produce and the chefs behind each exquisite course. The collab also highlighted the recent wins of Chefs Maverick Javier and Jovan Dungon at the Global Chefs Challenge Asia Semi-Final in Kuala Lumpur and when you have some of the country's creative culinary minds in one place, something truly amazing transforms a late week evening...


Canada Beef, Hightower, Mida Food Specialists, Arla and the LTB Chefs Association recently hosted the Canada Beef Goes Global 6-Hands Dinner led by Chefs James Antolin, Maverick Javier and Jovan Dungo at Ikomai in one memorable evening. Fresh from their successful stint at the Global Chefs Challenge in Malaysia, Chefs Maverick Javier and Jovan Dungo showcased their exquisite competition level dishes featuring Canada Beef guided by Chef James Antolin and his team at Ikomai. Read on and take your seat at Ikomai...

Thursday, October 16, 2025

Bar None: Sebastian's Ice Cream Raises The Bar Once More With The New Candy Bar Inspired Dive Bar Collection

Just when you thought the unconventional wizard of decadent frozen treats in the local ice cream scene is done with one innovative new creation, he's back with another. Sebastian's Ice Cream introduces his most decadent Dive Bar collection yet, and here's a sneak peek...


Bar none, this is probably the most indulgent and opulent Dive Bar collection by Sebastian's Ice Cream. The new collection features five hand dipped ice cream bar creations in Polvoron, Cookie Dough, Dark Chocolate Asin Tibuok, Butter Pecan and Hazelnut Heaven inspired by candy bars. Introduced a few months back, read on for the five best-selling Dive Bars at The Podium Shop and on-line store of Sebastian's Ice Cream...

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Got The Card? Cold Storage Seafood Rewards Loyal Customers With Exclusive Membership Card

For over 29 years, Cold Storage Seafood has been the trusted name when it comes to the freshest premium seafood sourced from around the world. It's a reputation built on consistent quality as the brand continues to blaze new trails in the retail sector with innovative programs and initiatives. As it nears yet another milestone built on three decades of premium seafood freshness, Cold Storage Seafood shares this bountiful ocean harvest with its loyal customers with the new exclusive Cold Storage Seafood Membership Card


Loaded with special benefits, privileges and unique deals available only to members, the new Cold Storage Seafood Membership Card takes your seafood shopping experience to a whole new level with unbeatable offers and value. How to sign up? Read on for a tempting peak at how to maximize your seafood shopping routine at the most trusted name in premium seafood since 1996...

Sunday, October 12, 2025

Go All Out For The Insane Mad For Wagyu Feast at Kuroniku in Greenhills Mall

Imagine an all Wagyu beef feast including premium A5 Wagyu and A5 Kobe Takami grilled right on your table in an eat-all-you-can setting. You can stop drooling, and head on over to Kuroniku at GH Mall...


A new concept takes the popular Japanese themed unlimited dining format up a notch with premium offerings like the coveted Japanese Wagyu Beef for a unique and memorable dining experience setting it apart from the usual all-you-can-eat grill set-up. Yakiniku? Add slabs of premium Wagyu Beef and you have Kuroniku. Grilled right at your table, Kuroniku elevates the yakiniku game with the all-out Mad For Wagyu offer showcasing the prized and legendary Wagyu beef from Japan. And you can enjoy as much as you want. Ready to fire up your table-top grill? Then, read on...

Friday, October 10, 2025

A New and Refined Dining Experience Comes To Quezon City at Michael Dubois Restaurant

A French chef's bold vision takes shape in the heart of Quezon City's culinary scene, adding to the colorful tapestry of diverse flavors this part of the metro. Deviating from the usual tried and tested casual and value-driven format common in the area, Chef Michael Dubois charts his own course offering an upscale dining experience at Michael Dubois Restaurant...

The promise of an elevated dining experience never fails to entice those constantly on the search for the newest culinary destination. And finding one in the most unexpected of places up north in the residential neighborhoods of Quezon City adds to the thrill and excitement of discovering one more restaurant to your growing list. But fine dining can be tricky, setting expectations both perceived and imagined. Opened just a few months back, there are still rough edges to smoothen and iron out, but Michael Dubois Restaurant offers some interesting possibilities. Managing expectations with an open mind becomes key in unveiling the countless possibilities at Quezon City's newest dining attraction. Curious? Then, read on and step inside Michael Dubois Restaurant...

Monday, October 6, 2025

One Smashing Year: Smashing Lemons Celebrates Milestone First Year Anniversary

It's that time of the year when being stuck in the usual afternoon rain isn't new, but a spot of sunshine in a cup never fails to brighten up a cloudy day with the promise of a refreshing pause. Where? At your nearest Smashing Lemons outlet... 


Hong Kong's No. 1 Lemon Tea Franchise, Smashing Lemons Lam Heung Ling celebrates its milestone first year anniversary in the Philippines with its signature line of refreshing libations. Freshly steeped with real tea leaves and infused with zesty smashed Bergamot lemons, one sip instantly soothes and rejuvenates your palate and spirit transforming any rainy day. Ready for a sip of sunshine? Then, read on...

Sunday, October 5, 2025

Mark Your Wednesdays For Authentic Indian Flavors, It's Spice & Soul at Seasonal Tastes in The Westin Manila

Love Indian food? Let's have lunch. It's Spice & Soul at Seasonal Tastes in The Westin Manila every Wednesday...


Known for its extensive selection of sumptuous offerings including the freshest seafood and purposeful emphasis on wholesome food options, The Westin Manila takes its buffet dining game up a notch with its themed spread highlighting Indian cuisine for lunch every Wednesday with Spice & Soul at Seasonal Tastes. Experience authentic Indian flavors recreated by Guest Chef Abhishek Kabrawala of Manila Marriott Hotel for a unique and memorable taste of the famed subcontinent in a lavish lunch buffet dining format with its own stations plus an innovative One Dish Wonders Station where five featured dishes are freshly prepared a la minute and served to your table at its flavorful peak. Ready for a hearty Indian feast? Then, read on...

Wednesday, October 1, 2025

Cocktails, Tapas And Hearty Euro-Asian Plates At Mita Kitchen + Lounge In Molito Lifestyle Center

For southies, it's a familiar name associated with soothing brews of freshly brewed coffee paired with comforting cuisine in a quaint casual neighborhood setting. Now, there's more than just coffee behind the name as Mita Kitchen + Lounge presents an entirely new dining concept to highlight a sumptuous menu with their Euro-Asian Plates at Molito Lifestyle Center...


Going beyond and building on the original café dining concept in Parañaque, the family behind Mita Kitchen + Café spins off a new concept with Mita Kitchen + Lounge at Molito Lifestyle Center showcasing an expanded menu. The "lounge" label in the new concept is expressed with an extensive selection of cocktails, tapas and hearty dishes inspired by their culinary take on Euro-Asian Plates. It's a concept that fits in nicely with the Molito Lifestyle Center's market profile as Mita Kitchen + Lounge is poised to be the next exciting dining and bar destination down south. Step inside for some soothing libations. And a comforting meal...

Sunday, September 28, 2025

Celebrating An Enduring Family Tradition: The Bacon Elegance Dinner by Jones Dairy Farm at Ruby Jack's Steakhouse & Bar

Imagine the best bacon and ham from Wisconsin transformed as the base for an elegant feast. In a creative culinary collaboration, three chefs transform bacon and ham into a lavish multi-course feast unlike any other for a one-time only dining experience. It's the Bacon Elegance Dinner by Jones Dairy Farm at Ruby Jack's Steakhouse & Bar...


Known as America's Dairyland, Wisconsin is also home to other iconic staples from the American Midwest with its  famous line of all-natural bacon, ham and sausages. And when it comes to bacon, ham and sausages, one name stands above the rest. For over 136 years, Jones Dairy Farm continues a proud family tradition with its growing range of pork products made with the Jones Difference. That means no fillers, binders, preservatives, nitrites and MSG with only pork, salt, spices and water as the primary ingredients with absolutely no artificial additives or antibiotics. The result? Pure, clean and richer flavors with every bite just the way it should be (for more on Jones Dairy Farm, see my earlier post Let's Talk Bacon. And Ham And Sausages Too By Jones Dairy Farm... from a few months back). The enduring brand's storied history is celebrated in a lavish feast featuring modern, creative and contemporary renditions of bacon and ham honoring tradition with The Bacon Elegance Dinner, a one-time culinary experience at Ruby Jack's Steakhouse & Bar. Love bacon and ham? Then, read on...

Friday, September 26, 2025

What's Cookin' At The CCA Show Kitchen September Mixer

The sauces are simmering, the pot is steaming and the lamb is gently warmed in the oven. The CCA Show Kitchen is once again humming with activity for the on-going mixer series...


The September Mixer is underway at the CCA Show Kitchen bringing together food professionals, chefs, the academe, entrepreneurs and suppliers from the local food industry in another memorable gathering celebrated with sumptuous dishes. The spirit of collaboration, spotting new trends and strengthening relevant connections brings all of us closer together moving ever forward in a changing culinary landscape. Read on and step inside the CCA Show Kitchen and see what's cookin'...

Wednesday, September 24, 2025

Dare To Join The Magic: We've Got Magic To Do At The Magic Table Preview In Grand Hyatt Manila

Smoke and mirrors, a sprinkling of pixie dust, a sleight of hand here and there and the alluring seduction of magic becomes the mystifying elements for a spectacular and unique dining performance at Grand Hyatt Manila...


Following the success of its long-running Le Petit Chef series, the Grand Hyatt Manila unveils yet another bold, immersive, entertaining and engaging dining experience dubbed The Magic Table high above the BGC skyline at The Penthouse. Imagine a spellbinding new encounter where culinary artistry meets magic with an intimate personal engagement as active participants. That's right, guests and diners are part of the show at The Magic Table. If you've experienced Le Petit Chef, prepare to take your next dining experience at the Grand Hyatt Manila up a notch with The Magic Table...

Monday, September 22, 2025

Plating Nostalgic Stories With The Autumn Tasting Menu At The Little Grace Pop-Up By Chef Sharwin Tee

The story of food is the common thread that binds our past and identity celebrated with each dish in a continuing tale that's constantly evolving with fresh renditions. Chef Sharwin Tee shares his own stories of comforting Chinoy flavors shaped and molded by nostalgic memories from childhood, reinterpreted with a refined and contemporary spin with his pop-up series at the CCA Show Kitchen. Experience and savor the flavors of Chef Sharwin's colorful stories retold in exquisite courses with the Little Grace Autumn Tasting Menu...


Noted chef, columnist and restaurateur Sharwin Tee brings his nostalgic childhood memories to life in an elegant feast with his private dining Little Grace Autumn Tasting Menu at the CCA Show Kitchen in BGC. It's been said many times before that food triggers a memory or an emotion and even transports you to another place or time. Let Chef Sharwin Tee reintroduce you to familiar flavors from the past, reimagined in fresh, contemporary renditions reflecting his take on Progressive Chinese Filipino cuisine at Little Grace for a unique, novel and memorable private dining experience.

Saturday, September 20, 2025

Pacific Bay Celebrates A Milestone Decade Of Trusted Quality And The Freshest Seafood Catch At Papillon

The freshest, finest and prized succulent catch of the day masterfully executed in vibrant Asian renditions marks a milestone moment for one of the country's premium purveyors of quality seafood. From Chilean Seabass to baby squid, Black Tiger Prawns to plump US Scallops and soft shell crabs, Pacific Bay shares its bountiful ocean harvest in celebration of ten flavorful years at Salcedo Village's Papillon for a sumptuous seafood feast. In one afternoon, a journey that began exactly a decade ago continues its course in providing access to quality seafood you can trust not only to dining establishments and institutional outlets but to your home kitchens too...


Access to premium quality seafood is no longer a challenge as Pacific Bay brings its impressive ocean harvest from around the world to your table uninterrupted for the past ten years. A decade of consistent and trusted quality is no small feat, but Pacific Bay stays true to its mission to support the needs of the home kitchen. To celebrate its tenth anniversary, Pacific Bay hosted an exquisite seafood feast inspired by fresh, bold and vibrant Asian flavors at Papillon. Known for their authentic take on traditional Asian cuisine, Papillon weaves its signature culinary style with its exquisite culinary creations for Pacific Bay's milestone tenth anniversary celebration. Step inside for a tasty peek...

Thursday, September 18, 2025

Come Home To Comforting Local Flavors At Apo Filipino Heritage Restaurant Cafe Bar

It's been said many times before that food is a flavorful collection of stories and nostalgic memories defining our identity with each plate and bite. Welcome home to Apo Filipino Heritage Restaurant Cafe Bar...


Successful restaurateur Kian Kazemi always believed that a dining establishment is an extension of home with its repertoire of comfortingly familiar dishes. Staying true to his roots, his various restaurants have always reflected the cuisine he grew up with made from cherished family recipes as reflected on the Persian-inspired menus of Persia Grill and Kite Kebab Bar. His latest concept is yet another homage to his family with local dishes inspired by his mother and grandmother showcased at Apo Filipino Heritage Restaurant Cafe Bar...

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

The Culinary Elite Series Presents A Culinary Exploration Of Sustainable Dining With Farm Gastronomy At The Maya Kitchen

Clean, bold and vibrant, hearty flavors are on today's table highlighted by garden fresh produce. Long-time advocates and pioneers in the slow food movement, sustainability and support for local farming communities, Chefs JayJay and Rhea Castro-Sycip of The Fatted Calf and Flour Pot Manila recently shared their fresh take on sustainable dining for The Culinary Elite Series of The Maya Kitchen... 


More and more, food provenance is increasingly becoming part of the decision-making process in our daily food choices. No longer just another passing trend, choosing fresh, natural and sustainable produce goes a long way in providing real flavors while supporting local farmers. Culinary icon Nora Daza's enduring legacy continues as renowned food writer and youngest daughter Nina Daza-Puyat brings The Culinary Elite series to The Maya Kitchen with a renewed purpose and mission. Established way back in 1964, The Maya Kitchen preserves a timeless culinary tradition of inspiring chefs with its regular line-up of classes featuring some of the country's best and brightest. In its latest edition, The Culinary Elite series showcased sustainable dining with Chefs JayJay and Rhea Castro-Sycip with their sumptuous renditions in Farm Gastronomy. Read on for a taste of farm-fresh flavors...

Sunday, September 14, 2025

Say Prost To Beer, Bites & Beats As Brotzeit Celebrates Oktoberfest 2025

Time to raise a toast with your stein. Seasonal Oktoberfest beers, savory Bavarian specialties, pretzels and lively weekend games, it's Oktoberfest at Brotzeit... 


The only authentic German beer garden and restaurant in the metro for over twelve years, Brotzeit brings the festive Bavarian tradition to Manila once more with this year's edition of Oktoberfest 2025. Starting September 7 to November 10, 2025Brotzeit branches in BGC, Alabang West Parade and The Podium will be displaying the colors of the world's largest volksfest or folk festival along with its full repertoire of Bavarian beers including special seasonal brews, sumptuous and traditional cuisine plus new dishes and entertaining weekend games honoring the annual celebration. Ready for Oktoberfest at Brotzeit? Then, read on...

Wednesday, September 10, 2025

The Spirit Of Culinary Collaboration And Giving Back For A Cause at CoCreate At Julyan Hub In Poblacion

An intimate space in the heart of Poblacion finds renewed purpose and spirit where creative culinary collaborations and giving back for a cause is celebrated, shared and experienced with a communal vibe. And maybe, this is just what the eclectic neighborhood needs as it evolves and changes with the times...

The many layers of the colorful neighborhood are enriched by its diversity with new establishments alongside old haunts as it presents yet another new concept to add to its mix of dining options. But the new space isn't your usual establishment, it doesn't offer the "next big thing" in cuisine nor does it have the flashy buzz of a new bar. Instead, the space is whatever you want it to be for your own culinary event. This is your stage. Step inside CoCreate at Julyan Hub in Poblacion... 

Sunday, September 7, 2025

Legacy, White, Aged: Experience The Refined Taste Of Heritage & Excellence with Bonifacio Pot Still Rum By Destileria Limtuaco

Heritage and innovation are fused in a meticulous weave as the country's oldest distillery leads the way once more introducing the country's very first pure pot distilled rum made entirely from local molasses. More than just a new product line in a growing portfolio of brands, it's a continuing story that's been quietly distilling for over 173 years...


With a new generation of innovators at the helm of the family-run Destileria Limtuaco ushering a fresh wave of groundbreaking products led by the latest offering from their recently acquired cognac pot still, the Bonifacio Philippine Pure Pot Still Rum draws inspiration from both the distillery's proud and long history with inventive spins on classic spirits. Available in Legacy, White and Aged variants, the new rum expressions represent the famed distillery's bold vision moving forward backed by tradition since 1852. Read on for a peek at the Bonifacio Rum Masterclass at Three Dots MNL in Greenhills...

Friday, September 5, 2025

Up High At Aire32 Bar And Events Venue At The Top Of The Westin Manila

Located high above the Ortigas skyline is the busy and ever changing commercial and business district's newest dive. Now on its soft opening phase, head up the 32nd floor for a sneak peek...


Nearing its final stage of completion, Aire32 at the top of The Westin Manila will soon take flight as one of the metro's premier bar destinations with its sweeping views of the sunset and the Ortigas cityscape. More than just another al fresco space high above the city, Aire32 brings its own distinct vibe and character to the evolving bar scene this side of the metro. 

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

The Project Vino Reserve x Urban Farmers Collab Presents The Farm To Table Experience

They say the appreciation of good wine is a personal journey with multi-layered experiences in every single moment. Unhurried and at your own pace, Project Vino Reserve lets you celebrate these moments in an elegant yet intimate setting at the Proscenium Retail Row in Rockwell. Along with great wine, complete the experience with exquisite cuisine to complete the experience. In an exciting and creative collaboration, Project Vino Reserve and Urban Farmers takes your wine pairing experience up a notch with the Farm to Table experience...


The timely collaboration isn't just a mere trend, but a sign of the times where food provenance becomes a key consideration in our food choices. Fresh, sustainable organic produce is at the very heart of the advocacy of Urban Farmers, and this is masterfully rendered in a variety of exquisite dishes at Project Vino Reserve with the Farm to Table experience. 

Monday, September 1, 2025

City Cafe Coffee With A View? 7-Eleven Albay Branch With Mount Mayon As Its Backdrop Becomes A Must-Visit Spot

I remember seeing the once viral images of a 7-Eleven store against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Fuji in Japan and thought to myself, could there be a more stunning image of the world's favorite neighborhood convenience store? Happily there is. Our very own Mount Mayon in Bicol becomes the eye-catching setting for your paboritong kapitbahay's newest location...

Photo provided by 7-Eleven
7-Eleven has always been your reliable and dependable go-to spot for satisfying quick bites, refreshingly drinks and everyday essentials, it's a part of every Filipino's daily routine. With one conveniently located near you, you can be sure 7-Eleven is right there for you 24/7 anytime, everyday. But your paboritong kapitbahay takes its mission of bringing an elevated consumer experience quite seriously, literally taking it a notch higher with its new location in Albay. Located with breathtaking views of the famed Mount Mayon behind its familiar tri-colors of orange, green and red, enjoy a soothing cup of City Cafe coffee with a view...

Sunday, August 31, 2025

Oysters, Wine, Sake, Sausages, Sharing Of Knowledge And Building Relevant Connections At The CCA Show Kitchen

It was a gathering of friends in the industry that became an extended classroom for culinary students and a base for establishing and reconnecting partnerships and alliances anchored on shared goals. Welcome to the CCA Business Networking Evening at the CCA Show Kitchen...


CCA Culinary Director Philip John Golding and the Business Development team recently hosted the CCA Business Networking Evening at the CCA Show Kitchen in what could be a scalable template for future collaborative events. The impressive show kitchen is an elegant state-of-the-art space featuring an intimate dining area with its own open kitchen ideal for demos and rows of actual cooking/work stations for a unique private dining experience, pop-ups, collaborations, product launches, brand activations and events. That evening, the space lit up with an engaging exchange of knowledge and ideas among restaurateurs, suppliers, entrepreneurs and industry partners as the CCA Show Kitchen kicked off the first in a series of networking events showcasing its full potential and infinite possibilities...

Friday, August 29, 2025

Keeping It Real, Twenty-Five Years And Counting At Tender Bob's

Food trends come and go and as the local restaurant scene continues to evolve, the more we get to appreciate the comforting flavors that have endured wave upon wave of the "next big thing". Change is good and even vital in the continued growth of the local dining landscape. But sometimes, all you want is the comforting familiarity of the dishes you've always loved like steaks, ribs and burgers with honest, pure and real flavors.  At Tender Bob's...

Now celebrating its milestone 25th year of serving its own brand of comforting cuisine anchored on American style steaks, ribs and burgers, Tender Bob's remains a familiar and even nostalgic name when it comes to sumptuous dishes that's uncomplicated and downright honest. And you can always expect that bite to take you back to the very first time you visited Tender Bob's. That's what endears Tender Bob's to many of its loyal customers, twenty-five flavorful years and counting. Let's do steaks, ribs and burgers at Tender Bob's...

Tuesday, August 26, 2025

7-Eleven Brews A Fun SIPrise With The New City Cafe Blind Cups

If there's one rock-solid truth in these changing times, you can always be sure of having a soothing cup of coffee with City Blends at 7-Eleven. Anywhere. Always. And without the fuss and none of the drama. But did you know your favorite neighborhood convenience store is also brewing up some playful fun with your coffee? Ever reliable and exciting just as you'd expect from your paboritong kapitbahay, leave it to 7-Eleven to always be there with that refreshing brew and even some fun in a cup to lighten the load of a busy and oftentimes stressful day...


7-Eleven brews up an exciting SIPrise with the cool new limited edition City Cafe Blind Cups where you get to enjoy a great cup of coffee plus a chance to find a hidden charm. Mystery and a playful element of fun transforms your coffee experience in what could be a highlight in a long day. Game? Then read on...

Monday, August 25, 2025

7-Eleven Owns The Brainfreeze Moment With The Bold New Flavor, Treat And Look Of The Iconic Slurpee

Everyone's all-time faves at your paboritong kapitbahay are always refreshed and creatively updated with novel and exciting new twists, it's really no wonder why loyal customers keep coming back to 7-Eleven for both the comfortingly familiar and fun new variations. Like the reinvented Slurpee®...

Photo provided by 7-Eleven
That's right, your reliable go-to neighborhood convenience store shakes things up with some innovative new offerings for your next brainfreeze moment. 7-Eleven brings the chill with the surprising new flavor and reinvented look of its enduring Slurpee® with its unique brand of refreshment inspired by a nostalgic local staple. Curious? Then, read on...

Sunday, August 24, 2025

Crunch It With 7-Eleven Crunch Time's Hype Man, Crunchito

Who doesn't love fried food, like fried chicken, fried chicken fillet or fried siomai? That's right, fried food is more than just a craving. It's comfort food that warms your palate and makes any day, specially those bad ones that creep up on you so much more bearable. It's about celebrating even the small wins, like a hearty and satisfying meal of Crunch Time Fried Chicken. Or the Crunch Time Crunchy Pan Pepperoni and Creamy Spinach Pizza. And your favorite neighborhood convenience store hears you loud and clear serving their signature Crunch Time for every kapitbahay's daily craving. 

Photo provided by 7-Eleven
From fried chicken, chicken fillet, siomai, Crunchy Pan and more, 7-Eleven knows your cravings and never stopped at simply providing the ultimate fried food fix for less. The Crunch Time FRYmily is getting a solid boost in the form of its newest brand character, Crunchito just to remind you that 7-Eleven is serious about its winning fried food game. With his signature fried chicken suit, Crunchito is every 7-Eleven customer's go-to hype man. Think of Crunchito as your daily Crunchy Motivator to ensure even the most ordinary moments are certified FRYnalo. And that's a win. Like the 7-Eleven Crunch Time Crunchy Pan Pepperoni Pizza...

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

All Aboard The Aussie Lamb Caravan By Meat And Livestock Australia For A Savory And Flavorful Ride At Participating Restaurants

From biryani, lamb chops, kofta and roasts to burgers, stews and tacos, the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) brings the fresh, clean and bold savory flavors of world-class Aussie Lamb to some of the metro's top restaurants. Hop aboard the Aussie Lamb Caravan for a flavorful ride...


Renowned all over the world for its flavor, Aussie Lamb boasts of the "all-natural advantage" with its free range, pasture-raised, grass-fed qualities with absolutely no artificial additives and growth hormones making it the top choice among restaurants and home kitchens in over 100 countries. Building on the success of its novel Lambassador program led by acclaimed Chef Robby Goco (see more on my post, Lambtastic: Meat And Livestock Australia Appoints Chef Robby Goco As The First "Lambassador" For The Philippines from early last year), the campaign is expanded by partnering with even more of the country's top restaurants. It's a clear sign that Aussie Lamb ranks high in the growing list of protein options now widely embraced by more Filipino chefs and diners who are discovering its premium quality, unique and distinct rich flavor and remarkable versatility. Ready to hop aboard the Aussie Lamb Caravan? Then, read on...