Discover places you'll love in the Philippines

Magnolia Bakery will open its first branch here in the Philippines on Aug 22, 2018. It will be in BGC and will be called M Bakery. I was invited to their Media Day where I got first dibs on all the items that they are offering. I particularly love what everyone else loves here - their Banana Pudding. It has layers of fresh bananas, wafer, and vanilla cream. It’s like banoffee pie ice cream version. It’s really addicting, and I almost finished 1 pint. No regrets though. I also had cupcakes, cookies, brownies, and cheesecakes. I particularly love their double fudge brownies. Each bite was pure bliss. It’s heavenly. I SWEAR. Their Lemon bars and cheesecakes were good too. Actually everything was good. Honestly. I was told that they ensure that the quality they have in US is the same as what they have here in Manila. Just note that M Bakery is a dessert shop. So most of what it offers are on the sweet side. Basically, you’ll be here for sweets! Okay? P.S. They have a promo on the opening day. First 5 people in the line will have 1 large tub of Banana Pudding every month for 12 months! Next 95 will receive a small tub of Banana Pudding with a minimum purchase of 500php. See you on the 22nd! ️

Nicto's -- I always think of the name as the inverse of "tonic," only with an apostrophe and an "s." Haha. As you might expect, this is a coffee shop in the Kapitolyo area. I love Kapitolyo because of its somewhat laidback atmosphere (unlike, say, Maginhawa) and of course it's nearer to where I live. Although I've been in the area numerous times, I've never seen Nicto's before. Turns out that this is just a new kid on the Kapitolyo block, just near to a dilapidated building where Tomahawk Chops and Grill and The Round Table used to stand. So I decided to check it out. I thought I was the first customer that day, at about 11 am methinks. Had a brunch there. 🔸Creamy Chicken Baguette (₱150) - Baguette is a heavy bread for me, so this meal can even be shared by two persons with smaller appetites. I usually dislike celery, but it worked well on this chicken filling -- and there were lots of celery in it that they could have put me off. But instead, I was surprised how good it was. It tasted just right, not too bland nor too flavorful, and the filling was generous. I could not finish this though, so I took it out for later munching. And oh, it was served with chips too, so sulit na rin siya. 🔸Oat Taking (₱60) - I am a fan of the classic chocolate chip cookie and I generally do not like any other thing in it, including oats. However, I will make this an exception to this cookie. As always, chocolate chip cookies are best eaten when re-heated -- you take delight at those melted chocolate chips that ooze out of the cookie after every bite. 🔸Cafe Latte (₱120) - That was the thing I needed the most because I was feeling weary and irritable at the time. As it was a latte, it was rich and milky. I was okay with it not having sugar. The interiors were almost all-white and quite minimalist in design. It had a clean, cozy and a "no-fuss" ambience, although there were a few accent pieces that stood out like those two pink armchairs at the corner. Other than those, the furnishings were all in monochrome. The natural light from the outside made the whole interior even brighter. Yes, it will be the next place for all of you coffee-loving hipsters out there hehehe. The restroom was also nice and clean. I didn't know that they also had rice meals. Another customer after me ordered a rice bowl meal. It wasn't listed on the menu kasi, nor did they mention or recommend them to me. Had I known (or asked), I would have ordered a rice meal instead of a sandwich (of course, I'm a rice person, as most Pinoys are). Although I almost always prefer hot coffee over iced and frappe, it seems to me that Nicto's are promoting their iced coffee drinks a lot on their social media posts, so I will try them on my next visit. I have no idea what their signature "Nicspresso Quake" is, I guess it's also an iced coffee (correct me if I'm wrong though).

There's always magnetism in simplicity as upon traversing the historic Calle Crisologo a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Vigan.I saw this humble eatery that sells "Vigan" empanada different from its cousin from the north ,the Ilocos Norte variant of the empanada . Had a brief chat with some locals about this traditional dish and whats the difference from its northern cousin. The crust is more natural, distinct texture and crispiness ,filled with garlicky mashed Vigan longganisa, shredded green papaya and fried egg.The shell made up of rice flour instead of flour ,nice blistered appearance and the color is more of a light brown /beige shade more organic looking than the usual loud orange color ones.I like eating it piping hot with the local Ilocano vinegar. Sincere local food that should be preserved for the generations to come.Great snack while exploring the south side of Ilocos without breaking the bank. "masarap na meryenda sa tulad kong walang pambili sa BIG TIME restaurant " 🇵🇭🦁 #tseeboogAsiano #simpleyetTRUE🦁🦁

As mentioned in the previous review, Gaja got a Secret-- now revealed to us, it's another cool AND affordable speakeasy bar!! Yay for makati folks. Please note that's we're at makati and the price here is not the same as the other bars around. Coming from Gaja, it takes confidence to press that special soju bottle mounted on the wall. Gaja customers will surely look to you as a part of the wall pops out before you--the entrance to the bar! The place could accommodate about 60-80 pax with a smoking area on the right side of the room. The Odd Seoul mainly uses soju in their concoctions. For those who does not really want the taste of bitter alcohol, this place is for yo, because the owner mentioned that they don't want their concoction to be alcohol tasting. (This is one advantage of utilizing soju) There's no loud music here, as expected of a speakeasy, just some blue, red and green neon lights to chill away in Makati. Kimchi Sour @280PhP Soju kimchi with dried rose and a spritz of orange aroma. It's not that sour or spicy. You'd appreciate a flowery taste here. Yeouido @250PhP Soju, elder flower, citrus, aloe vera , and tarragon. This one is more fruity than flowery. We liked this the best. Smoking Tiger @250PhP Soju, sherry, guava, smoke from apple wood, lemon juice. This got the coolest preparation of all. it will be placed inside a glass bell to be filled with smoke. This is the second strongest from the drinks offered to us. Seoul'd Fashioned @250PhP The strongest tasting of the bunch. This got soju, scotch, sherry, spiced mango, and bitters. Hallyu @280PhP This was my drink that night. This got soju, gochujang paste, and Gim. It's not spicy as i have expected; rather it was kind of sour. As you may have noticed, these drinks does not really taste alcohol, but they all do contain soju. Soju comes in subtle, but dont be fooled, because it got some real kick after. I love this place, and will be back for some light chill drinks during rush hours. JUST DO IT. Press the special soju bottle!

Our "3D2N Couples Retreat Getaway" experience Urban Suites Tagaytay SMDC Wind Residences, Tagaytay City For more detailed info: https://karlaniiinz.com/2018/08/11/urban-suites-tagaytay/ Package includes: > 3D2N stay in one of their premier rooms > room with wifi, cable TV, and netflix > complimentary breakfast > free 1 hr body massage for 2 > towels & bathrobe > toiletries They are in AirBnb too. Don't have an account yet? Sign up here to avail the 1 600 php discount on your first booking: https://www.airbnb.com/c/karlaninam ROOM – The room is simple but you will feel relaxed. As in super! The room has a good AC. The internet is fast. Very perfect for staycation! Did I say that our room is also a good spot for sunset watching? Yes, it is! RATES – The rooms are very affordable. If you want some discounts, book through AirBnb. Don’t have AirBnb account yet? SIGN UP HERE and get a 1 600 php discount on your first booking. AirBnb accepts DEBIT (ATM card) or CREDIT CARD. If you will use DEBIT card, put the card information on CREDIT Card option (they are at the same process). For those WITHOUT CREDIT/DEBIT CARDS, you may apply for your own prepaid credit card called YAZZ powered by VISA. This can be secured from Metrobank, SM, and Robinsons Department Stores or at National Bookstore Branches. SERVICE – We met the caretaker, Ms. Mavi. She assisted us during our stay. We got some problems inside the room but she immediately respond to us and fixed whatever the problems are. AMENITIES – SMDC Wind Residences has a lot of amenities. All that you’re looking for are here. You don’t need to go out to other places. Their clubhouse is really big. Can accommodate hundred pax, I guess? LOCATION – It has a good location. Very easy to find. It has also a good view since you can sight Taal Lake. If you want to go outside and explore Tagaytay, they are near in Sky Ranch. Very accessible, right? Contact them at: 09471729759 Bookings@urbansuites.com.ph Social Media Accounts: Website: http://urbansuitestagaytay.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/urbansuitestagaytay/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urbansuitestagaytay/ Feature/Collab/Sponsor: lalamallannao@yahoo.com Follow me on IG: www.instagram.com/karlaniiinz #KNBMtravels www.karlaniiinz.com

We went to Sulyap last Wednesday before going to an important meeting in San Pablo Laguna. I saw this place couple of times already in social media, food review shows and friends’ posts. When we arrived at the place, I was so excited. Being away from the city is what I really missed. Having out of town lakad is what I am looking forward to right now. Because of the very busy schedule we have, we barely leave the house like before. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not complaining or anything. I just miss being outdoor. So while we were waiting for others to come, we roam around the place. It’s kind of nostalgic. Seeing old school house and all. I saw one article that was framed on the wall saying that this house was actually transferred from Batangas to Laguna by the owner just like in Las Casas. I also entered their gallery in which very old pieces of things like closets, bed, spiritual images, even the one they use for brewing coffee before World War II was there. The woman that helped me enter the gallery was so kind. I asked her if there’s an entrance fee. She said that if you are a customer, there’s no fee. But the place is open to the public. I think you need to pay 100 per head to get inside. They also offer a function room for small gathering or weddings just beside the gallery. They have rooms for rent too. Just call them or visit some accommodation apps for further details. 1st floor of the house is like their holding area. You can find many memorabilia on that floor also. 2nd floor is where the dining area’s located. It was big enough to accommodate many customers. Just above the holding area, the dining room is a bit small. There was a pathway to reach for the bigger room. It’s very picture worthy. This is what we ordered: Ensaladang Pako (Php 220) - Sulyap’s bestseller. I’m not a fan of Pako so I didn’t tasted it. But they almost finished the 2 orders so I guess it’s good. :) Ensaladang Dilis (Php 195) - I liked the combination of dilis and manggang hilaw plus the vinegar in it. Sinigang na Sugpo (Php 630) - I liked it. Nothing extraordinary about this. But I liked it. Did I just say that I liked it? Crispy Pata Jumbo (Php 760) - this is good. I enjoyed the fried sweet potato side dish. Boneless Bangus (Php 415) - my favourite. The marinate of the fish was so delicious I think I almost finished half of one order. We had 2 orders of this by the way. Pancit Habhab (Php 275) - this was good too! The vinegar for pancit was perfect. Torrones con Sorbetes (Php 95) - I had chose this dessert and it’s so good. I liked how the caramel tastes when the ice cream melted. My two favourites in one dessert. Why not?! Overall experience was good. Food is a bit pricey here (for me atleast). But I guess if you’re into old places and good ambiance, this is your place to be. So happy we finally had the chance to visit this place.

From the team who introduced Ramen Nagi, Tendon Akimitsu and Fat Fook in the Philipines here comes another international franchised from Vietnam called Propaganda Vietnamese Bistro. Propaganda was originally established in Saigon, the first branch in the Philippines is located at the 2nd level of Greenbelt 5, Makati. The restaurant offers a modern approach on Vietnamese cuisine. During the launch, we were able to try 9 bestsellers of Propaganda: 🇻🇳 Fresh Prawn Spring Rolls for Php330.00 - ️️️️ 4/5 “With Julienne vegetables, rice noodles & coriander fish sauce” 🇻🇳 Propaganda Edamame Salad for Php350.00 - ️️️️️ 5/5 “With organic black rice, home-made citrus-soy tofu & dried baby tomatoes” 🇻🇳 Pate Bahn Mi for Php300.00 - ️️️️ 4/5 “With braised pork and floss, cilantro, pickled veggies & chili mayo” 🇻🇳 Propaganda Bun for Php250.00 - ️️️️ 4/5 “With home-made lightly fried egg tofu & special ginger, chili and peanut crunchy topping” 🇻🇳 Chicken Pho for Php450.00 - ️️️️️ 5/5 “With chicken & Vietnamese herbs” 🇻🇳 Hue Rice Noodles Soup for Php450.00 - ️️️️️ 5/5 “With beef, fresh greens & bean sprouts” 🇻🇳 Crunchy Tri-coloured Rice Bowl for Php350.00 - ️️️️️ 5/5 “With barbecue chicken, vegetables and egg” 🇻🇳 Home-made frozen banana and coconut bar for Php150.00 - ️️️️ 4/5 “With crushed peanut topping” 🇻🇳 Home-made soursop & palm sugar ice-cream for 170.00 - ️️️️ 4/5 My personal favorites are Propaganda Edamame Salad, Chicken Pho and Crunchy Tri-coloured Rice Bowl. Not to mentioned, I also like their version of Ice Lemongrass Tea, sugar syrup at the side and Ca Phe Sua Da or Iced Vietnamese Coffee especially pairing with the pho and rice bowl. Aside from instagrammable and colorful interior of Propaganda Vietnamese Bistro; and excellent service... good thing that we consumed the food while it’s still hot. That’s why we really like the dishes they served during the launch. Taste so good! #ilovetoeatph ️

HistoryCon 2018 really made history.Geek warriors of different genres and generations dauntlessly trooped to the World Trade Center for this annual extravaganza. Been a part of this spectacular event for the second time. As a self attested geek I could say that this is the best pop culture event that i attended this year compared to the events that I've been to the previous months and weeks ago in some nearby venue. HistoryCon not only boasts of pop culture like anime,comics and toys but also auctions, knowledge and historical exhibits, food kiosks ,food products and merchandise stalls.Outdoor automotive activities together with sports like archery,arnis, swordfighting, basketball ,local martial arts and pro wrestling spectacle which I'm an aficionado of.Very glad that they have an annex for the military and police exhibits and even registration counters of newly acquired firearms.Celebrities , athletes ,characters and cosplayers galore. Above all this year is more organized,fast entrance and no long standing queues. Everything was well coordinated and every one was safe even if there's this crummy weather. Until next time!! #tseeboogAsiano #simpleyetTRUE🦁🦁

I've been to La Union countless of times, but I never really had the chance to try this little boho-themed cafe. El Union Coffee is a hip café found along the MacArthur National Highway in San Juan- a favorite destination for anyone’s much-needed caffeine fix. It’s a cozy casual spot which can accommodate just about 10 to 15 persons at a time, making it a bit more intimate. The atmosphere has a really chill vibe and they play really good music here. I am not really into the world’s top beverage of choice, coffee (plus I am no cinnamon lover), but I still gave their famous Dirty Horchata (P120) a try. Guess what? I actually kind of liked it, srsly. Maybe, just maybe, someday I’ll get into the habit and enjoy it. ..aaaaaand here's the real deal, their best selling Grilled Cheese Sandwich (that made me rate them 5 stars) for P160! Oh maaan, one of the best comfort food you'll ever find in La Union! It's super good even without the bacon jam! Not to exaggerate or whatsoever, but this food made me really kilig! HAHA. It’s hard not to recommend El Union Coffee, now that I've tried it. Promise, I'll be back for their grilled cheese sandwich!!! ...and of course, to try other items on their menu. P.S. I so love how eco-friendly they are. P.P.S. If you're a cheese-addict like me, don't hesitate to double your order for their grilled cheese sandwich!

Yay for another La Union weekend! Want something healthy and an energizer to munch on by the beach? Head on to Makai Bowls! A popular seaside shack as it is the first one to offer smoothie bowls to those would opt to get a light snack for their beach getaway. These smoothie bowls are perfect for a fueling breakfast or even a post surf snack! I can eat these pretty meals for breakfast for the rest of my life, to be honest. They make sure that what they create are as healthy as possible: made from 100% fruits, no dairy, no artificial sweeteners and NO ICE. Simply put, both vegans and non-vegans will love this shack for the nutritious bowl of goodness! Plus, each bowl looks as good as it tastes! ...because you know, thoughtful presentation leads to a more enjoyable meal. I ordered Amianan (P240); A smoothie bowl made with dragon fruit, mango, papaya, banana, and acai juice. Topped with a slice of an orange, bananas, mango, oats, and tapioca. Truly delicious and refreshing because of its fruity and zesty treat. I was also able to try on Carille (P240), as it was my boyfried's order; A chocolate smoothie bowl made with banana, peanut butter, cacao, maca, coconut oil, coconut milk, and honey. Topped with oats, banana, tapioca, and chocolate powerballs. YUMMM! We actually had these bowls as our post-lunch snack. HAHA. I'll definitely be back to try on the other flavors. They also offer fresh fruit shakes, fresh juices, and the like. Make sure to check on their menu! These bowls are perfect to satiate your tummy and IG feed. Be sure to get your smoothie bowl grub next time you visit La Union! They're actually located near El Union Coffee.

I think I just had the purest and most adorable weekend spent at a dog cafe. Where? Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe - The Brick Road, Sta. Lucia East Grand Mall in Cainta, Rizal Okay, straight forward review: 3stars for the food and drinks (tastes good but nothing special), but 5 STARS for the dogs! Price Range 🥪Food and Drinks: P600 to P900 for 2 Dog Zone: P180 for 2 hrs What I love is that the Dog Zone actually smells great and is super clean. It’s obvious that the dogs love the staff and that they are not being forced to do whatever they don’t want to. The staff also cleans up after the dogs immediately (they don’t let pee or poop sit there for longer than a minute). Bringing your own pets is not allowed to not stress/overhype the inhouse doggos. ⏱Hours: 12nn to 9pm (closed on Tuesdays) Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/barkinblends/ Follow me on ig: https://www.instagram.com/alettertotheuniverse www.alettertotheuniverse.com

Mesa at SM Mall of Asia When you say Filipino restaurant "Mesa Filipino Moderne" is one of best well known restaurant in the country. Now opening it's 43rd store in one of the premier malls in the country - SM Mall of Asia. Mesa will continue to bring a different kind of dinning experience to the all Filipinos. . . Mesa will never disappoint in bringing you unique interior design like their Rattan accent wood finished tables, distinct lighting features, and other classic decor bringing that Filipino-Home vibe. This branch can accommodate 80 guests in the dinning area and 30 at their alfresco dinning area. . . I was invited during the grand launch of their 43rd restaurant. We were lucky to experience again their best seller sea food dishes such as Crab in Salted Egg, Salt-Crusted Apahap, Crispy Boneless Tilapia, their famous Crispchon and many more. Nothing will compare to how they value the satisfaction of their customers. Servers were very accommodating, attentive and very much pleasing to the eyes. . . With the food that was served, truly Mesa gave their very best for us to love and enjoy Filipino cuisine. Good job! Mesa MoA branch. . . Thank you Mesa & EJ B . . Flat lay by EJ B #rusophotography #mesasarappaba #teamkaladkarinsuperfriends