Cupcakes by Sonja

It was back in 2006 that the Cupcake Craze have taken Manila by storm and the master initiator, Ms. Sonja Ocampo, the owner of Cupcakes by Sonja. 

Now the craze had already died down, but, I was able to visit the famous cupcake wonderland only summer this year. Well, for two reasons: first, I was too skeptical to try it out before because my benchmark for an oh-so-delicious cupcakes was of Pau's Cupcakes, owned by my college friend Paula Deuna. Second, the location of the cupcake shop, yet , it finally opened a branch at Ayala Fairview Terraces which saved me a lot of energy going down south. 

The shop offers three categories of dessert: The Non-Refrigerated Cupcakes, which are best eaten fresh upon purchase and at room temperature; Refrigerated Cupcakes, which are best enjoyed cold and can be stored for two days; and Other Goodies: Like Chocolate Chip Cookies, Crack Pies, Whoopie Pies, and Bars. Check out Cupcake by Sonja's delectable cupcake selections HERE *drools*

So, here's my experience and what I had:

Sinful delights waiting to be savored.

Red Velvet Vixen
Traditional Southern red velvet
made with Belgian cocoa and topped with cream cheese icing
(Php 85)\

The much rave about red velvet cupcake is far from the super sweet red velvet kind that I'm used to. The icing is thick and flavorfully cheesy with the right amount of sweetness.

Chocolate Surprise w/ Vanilla Buttercream
(Php 80)

Vanilla Sunshine
(Php 75)

The classic. Among the three, I like this more.

PROS:

• The chromatic interior of the pastry shop is such a pleasure to the senses.
• The way the cupcakes were presented are truly enticing and give you wonder how heavenly these pastries must be.
• The cupcakes' texture is smooth and nicely moist. It's rich in flavor.
• Their staffs are heartwarming and keep smiles on their faces.

CONS:

• None that I've observed.

THE VERDICT: ★ ★ ★ ★ 

It's a cupcake wonderland that made me fall in love with this sinful pastry. I'll definitely comeback here and find more joy on other cupcakes flavors. It's a happy place and a reflection of the owner's intense passion for serving great food. The variety of flavors is exceptional and the quality is impeccable. 

P.S. Already tried this restaurant? Feel free to share your experience and recommend a dish on the comment section! Thank you! xoxo

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Cupcakes by Sonja

Ayala Fairview Terraces

G/F Ayala Fairview Terraces

Quezon City

Operating Hrs: 

Mon to Sun - 10 am to 9pm

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Buenisimo by Café Ysabel

For us, special occasions demand to be celebrated with great food and fine wine just like what we had for his birthday months ago at Buenisimo by Café Ysabel. 

Last year, we had a palatable dining experience at Café Ysabel... and how can we ever forget the addictingly sweet and spicy flavor of their Zatar (Middle Eastern spice) dip which is paired onto their lavosh (Persian flatbread) bread. So, we had likely expected Buenisimo's dishes to be as equally good knowing it's under the management of Café Ysabel.

Buenisimo is a Spanish word, used to describe something as very, very good or someone exceptionally beautiful. The restaurant is owned by Gino and Giannina, son and daughter of the Gene Gonzalez a respected culinary icon and the man behind the success of Café Ysabel. 

As for their menu, it is a combination of Café Ysabel's favorites and experimental dishes inspired by Asian and European cuisines. Feel free to check their menu here. 

So, here's our experience and what we had:

Lavosh (Persian flatbread) & Zatar (Middle Eastern spice) Dip 

While waiting, we were served by the signature Café Ysabel's bread & dip. Initially, we were so glad it was offered here too! However, *sound of shattered glasses on the background* we were disappointed that their Zatar dip here was less flavorful compared to what we at had at Café Ysabel. 

Silk Road Salad 
Mixed Greens, Chinese Sausage, Dried Apricots, Smoked Salmon,
Papadoms, Tamarind Cilantro Dressing
(Php 318)

For starters, fresh and slightly moist fruits and veggies were what we had. We are salad lovers, indeed!

Glazed Spareribs
(Php 428)

This tasted truly delightful as it looks. It has that invitingly yummy scent, so tender and juicy.

Salmon Steak with Pearl Onion Merlot Glaze
& Hazelnut Butter Cream
(Php 468)

A well-executed dish, the salmon was flavorful and well-cooked wonderfully paired with a small serving of an oil-based pasta. Obviously, we are both big salmon eaters... we just can't get enough it. 

They have a decent selection of wines.
These are some on display.

Before anything else here's a Wine Etiquette 101

Basic Wine Pairing Rule: 

"Lighter meat, lighter wine (includes salads). Darker meat, darker wine."

 

So, we ordered a glass serving of white and red wine... my bad, I've forgotten to take note of their names though. Btw, their service water is infused with mint and/or a citrusy flavor.  

It was too late when I had realized everything we ordered (except the wine) were the exact dishes we had at Café Ysabel last year (except that we also had their Paella that time).  

PROS:

• The interiors are very  elegant, modern and up-beat, even their centerpieces. Definitely a superb twist from the "homey feel and oldness" of Café Ysabel.
• The chic ambiance and soothing music give you that romantic feel and comfort which makes it a great place for date nights. 
• Their staffs are well-trained and attentive. One of the waiters was actually on standby (almost 2 meters away from us) just in case we needed something,.. they only have two customers that time which can be a factor. Likewise, their guard was really helpful, he even opened up the car door for me. 
• The foods are well-executed, delectable, and  artistically presented but in a very reasonable price. Plus, they have a fine selection of beverages and wines. 

CONS:

• None that I've observed.

THE VERDICT: ★ ★ ★ ★

Overall, it was a satisfying dining experience. The ambiance, the privacy we get, their distinctive dishes, and quality wines were just everything we had wanted for the special occasion. It may not have the  best dishes in town, but, they've proved that the combination of good things can make a extraordinary mark on their customers.

P.S. Already tried this restaurant? Feel free to share your experience and recommend a dish on the comment section! Thank you! xoxo

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Buenisimo by Café Ysabel

 #24-C Scout Tuazon corner Scout Lozano St.

Diliman, Quezon City

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Black Olive Cervecería

During our date night, I had suggested that we should check out the restaurants at the upcoming enclave called Capital Commons. It is this mini-Bonifacio Global City type at the heart of Pasig. It also has this oval-shaped park which seemed to have become a go-to-place by joggers around the area. The parking was tough though... or maybe only during the night time. 

I actually had my eyes on Tipsy Pig that night, however, the place was too crowded for us...so, we ended up at Black Olive Cervecería. Cervecería is a Spanish term meaning brewery, bar or beer hall. 

It is a 2-storey restaurant with great outdoor seating owned by Chef Carlos Miguel (the culinary genius behind the Draft Gastropub, Opus, Beso, & Publiko). The place offers a wide selection of wines, spirits, beers (mostly European brands) and specializes on Mediterranean inspired dishes.

So, here's our experience and what we had:

While waiting, we were served with this plateful of bread with their house blend dip. This one's okay but our benchmark of a house blend bread dip is of Cafe Ysabel's Satar sauce.

Black Olive Paella
pork, chorizo, prawns, squid, mussels, and clams
(Php 635)

I have a big heart for Paella, so, this immediately caught my eye on  the menu. Black Olive's version of Paella did not disappoint, it's moist, flavorful, and has a generous amount of seafoods.  The serving looks small but this is good for 2-3 persons. (from a light eaters' perspective... like us.) 

Black Olive's Barbeque Pork Riblets
(Php 280)

This was the highlight of our dinner. Highly recommend this dish and just the thought makes my tummy crazy to have it again. Darn, I definitely can't get enough of it! It's SO FLAVORFUL and TENDERLICIOUS that it melts in your mouth. It comes with a dipping sauce (don't know what it's called though) which perfectly compliments to it. One of the moments that I'd say "A Taste of Heaven on Earth".  

The fruit drink that I forgot what it's called. :)

PROS:

• The restaurant is very spacious with great ambiance and music. 
• Gracious staff.
• Offers a great deal of liqueurs and quality food. It is on a little expensive side but, I say, it is definitely worth every penny.
• Apart from Korean and Japanese dishes, I love Mediterranean cuisines too. This place lies more on the Spanish, Italian, and Greek side which is a big plus for me.

CONS:

• None that I've observed.

THE VERDICT: ★ ★ ★ ★

The Black Olive experience was a truly satisfying one. I am loving Chef Carlos Miguel's food creations and my tummy has now an intense desire to check out Opus, Beso, and Draft Gastropub too. They've got a whole lot of signature mains to try so I'll certainly look forward to my next meal here. Can't wait!


P.S. Already tried this restaurant? Feel free to share your experience and recommend a dish on the comment section! Thank you! xoxo

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Black Olive Cervecería  
Unit R3A & B, Camino Verde Ave., 
The Capitol Commons, Brgy. Oranbo, Pasig City 
Operating Hours
Mon - Thurs: 11:00 AM - 3:00 AM
Fri - Sat: 11:00 AM - 5:00 AM
Sun: 11:00 AM - 1:00 AM
Contact #s: 0917 507 3512 & 02 633 20 71
Email address: blackoliveph@gmail.com

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Chili's

Actually, he and I aren't big eaters but we've been at Chili's twice already. Put the blame on me, my seasonal pigging out mood, and my sinful cravings for a Mexican-American food. How thankful I am to have someone who will always be willing to adjust with my issues, esp. my sinful cravings. THANK YOU! xoxo *awww*

So, here's our experience and what we had. 

Fish and Chips
Hand-battered fish fillet served with homestyle fries, sweet corn on the cob and tartare sauce
(Php 395 + 10% service charge)

Fire Grilled Chicken, Bacon & Ranch Quesadilla
Fajita-marinated chicken, bacon, Ranch dressing, mixed cheese, & a kick of Southwestern spice in a toasted tortilla. Served with sour cream, house-made pico de gallo & salsa-ranch dressing.
(Php 435 + 10% service charge)

Platinum Presidente Margarita
Hand-shaken Patron Silver Tequila (100% Blue Agave), Cointreau Orange Liqueur, Fundador Reserve Brandy and sweet & sour

During the period of our first visit, it was just in time for their FREE Texas Cheese Poppers promo for every minimum purchase of Php 750. You need to get the validation code online in order to get your FREE Texas Cheese Poppers on your next visit. So, on our second visit, we got our FREE food and you know it... this was definitely one hell of a pig out. HAHA!

Texas Cheese Poppers
Mini cheese poppers, green onions and cilantro, all rolled into a special seasoned breading and lightly fried until golden brown. Served with zesty chipotle ranch dipping sauce.
( Php 325 + 10% service charge)

PROS:

• The staffs were very warm, attentive, and made sure you are having a great time and enjoying your food. 
• I love the food variety and the overall quality. Definitely good for family or barkada bonding.
• The restaurant is very clean and spacious. I am glad they have a smoking and non-smoking areas.

CONS:

• Limited parking space though.

THE VERDICT: ★ ★ ★ ★

I'm not a fan of American food but what made me love this place is the Mexican twist in it... plus I LOVE spicy foods. This is definitely a good place to hangout with your friends and family. You could tell the staffs are well trained and always put a smile on their faces which is a ++ points for me. Overall I say you could never go wrong with this place. 

P.S. Already tried this restaurant? Feel free to share your experience and recommend a dish on the comment section! Thank you! xoxo

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Chili's Philippines

Tomas Morato Avenue,

Laging Handa, Quezon City

Monday to Thursday 11:00 AM - 12:00 MN

Friday to Saturday 11:00 AM - 2:00 AM

FULL LIST OF THEIR BRANCHES CHECK IT HERE!

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Ariake

Our visit here was totally unplanned. It just so happened that we're craving for Japanese food and while in search of a good Japanese restaurant in the vicinity of Tomas Morato, he spotted Ariake. At first, we're both skeptical because we're not familiar with the place, but we took the risk.

Upon entering the door at the first floor (main restaurant is located at the 2nd flr), you'll spot a running water on the wall and it's sound  was accompanied by a very soothing music, giving you a relaxing spa-like feel. 

So, here's our experience and what we had:

Kani Salad
( Php 140)

Salmon Sashimi

Yakimono (Asupara Bacon Maki)
( Php 175)

Baked Oysters
(Php 265)

Awesome technology here.
They even have this on every tables which is connected to 
watch-like gadgets of their waiters. Different buttons according to your needs.
Even fooled around to check if it's really working. HAHAHA!   

PROS:

• They have an attentive staff and even love that techy thingy.
• The food is of good quality but not pricey. 
• The restaurant is very private, clean and spacious.

CONS:

• None that I've observed..

THE VERDICT: ★ ★ ★ ★

We've been here twice. I think this has become our go-to place whenever we're in the mood for a good Japanese food around Tomas Morato. I say, it's probably one of those underrated restaurants out there. There's nothing I love more than private restaurants with good quality of food.

P.S. Already tried this restaurant? Feel free to share your experience and recommend a dish on the comment section! Thank you! xoxo

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Ariake

Unit C Barretto Bldg, 

284 Tomas Morato Corner Scout Rallos, 

Sacred Heart, Quezon City

11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

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Mary Grace Cafe

For years, I've always been so curious about Mary Grace Cafe because every time I passed by their Trinoma branch, it always seemed to be packed with diners. They even have the need to set up more tables outside the cafe (almost extending across National Bookstore) just to accommodate more people.

Finally, the day came, I was able to put an end to my curiosity, all thanks to someone I had dinner with me here... THANK YOU. :)

It's more of a bakery-restaurant type as they offer Italian dishes, baked goods, breakfast, merienda and healthy meals. Check their menu here: Mary Grace Cafe 

So, here's our experience and what we had:

Fried Kesong Puti & Calamansi Vinaigrette 
(Php 219)

We love eating light and healthy especially during dinner time. We've observed the restau offers quite a variety of fresh salads, hence, we chose this for starters. It's fresh, healthy yet flavorful. The Calamansi Vinaigrette is love.

Spicy Lemon Scampi
Oil-based Pasta
(Php 327)

Spicy kick + seafood + garlic taste all in an oil-based pasta = perfect combination of everything I love to have on my tummy. Bit pricey but definitely worth your money. Our personal favorite...truly one hell of a healthilicious dish.

Apple and Cinnamon Honey
Glass (Php 84) Pitcher (Php 246)

This is one of their Homemade Iced Teas. I love apple, cinnamon, honey...so their's Mary Grace again making me happy with this drink. 

PROS:

• Lots of food selections to choose from.
• The place gives a comfy and homey feel...I love the interiors.
• BIG SERVINGS! our orders were said to be good for 1 person but, in reality, they are good for 2 persons... OR maybe it's just us because we eat light. 
• Good quality food.
• Flavorful and healthilicious meals.

CONS:

• None that I've observed.

THE VERDICT: ★ ★ ★ ★

No wonder why people flock this place to eat. The food is of good quality and they have a variety of choices, even healthy options. Great ambiance, it gives you a comfy and homey feel...as the restaurant's tagline says 'There's No Place Like Home", indeed. I will definitely come back here, especially to try their famous Ensaymadas, Cheese Rolls, and Hot Chocolates. A NEW FOUND LOVE and can't wait for my next visit here.

P.S. Already tried this restaurant? Feel free to share your experience and recommend a dish on the comment section! Thank you! xoxo

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Mary Grace Cafe
G/F TriNoma, Quezon City
Sunday - Thursday 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday - Saturday 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

FULL LIST OF THEIR BRANCHES HERE!

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YABU: House of Katsu

The first time I visited the place was during the height of the Katsu craze where the local foodie community is going gaga to experience the "First Authentic Japanese Katsu Restaurant in the Philippines". Lucky enough for us we don't get to experience to wait for more than 5 minutes to have a table. Our strategy, we only eat there during off-peak hours.

You can check YABU: House of Katsu here.

So, here's our experience and what we had:

Kurobota Premium Tonkatsu Set 1 (90g) 
served with unlimited white rice or organic brown rice, miso soup, Japanese pickles, organic cabbage with your choice of dressing and a bowl of fruit
(Php 515 + 5% service charge)

Their Kurobuta,  also known as the black Berkshire pig, is imported straight from Japan and the world's FINEST pork. It's tender, juicy and flavorful pork in a crisp golden panko crust. 

Seafood Katsu Set  2

Salmon, Black Tiger Prawn, Crab, Oyster 

(Php 515 + 5% service charge)

I love seafoods so is definitely a must-try for me especially the salmon part! This is served with unlimited white rice or organic brown rice, miso soup, Japanese pickles, organic cabbage with your choice of dressing and a bowl of fruit.

PROS:

• The staffs were so welcoming and approachable. Very good service.
• I love their menu...so comprehensive with all the graphics and instructions to maximize your Yabu experience.
• They now offer an unlimited rice (white & brown) which is good for big eaters. I'm not a rice person but the brown rice part is a YAY for me!
• BIG SERVINGS, you'll definitely get your money's worth.
• Unlimited crispy and fresh Organic Cabbage best enjoyed with Yabu's Goma or Shoyu dressing. 
• The Panko crust (Japanese breadcrumbs) is crispy, never greasy because they use 100% Canola oil .
• Not only I do love their Katsu Sauce, but also, love the idea that you can prepare it yourself, the kiddo inside me definitely had fun.

The kiddo inside me was definitely having fun. LOL!

CONS:

• Crowded? Can we even blame the restaurant for that? So, none that I've observed.

THE VERDICT: ★ ★ ★ ★ 

I highly recommend the restaurant! This place will always have a place in my heart. I'll definitely come back here for more as they continue to add new dishes on their menu from time to time. I just hope that the quality of food will always remain the same. As for the authenticity, I've read somewhere that according to the Japanese community in the Philippines, there are more authentic Japanese restaurants around the Metro than this...but oh well.

P.S. Already tried this restaurant? Feel free to share your experience and recommend a dish on the comment section! Thank you! xoxo

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YABU: House of Katsu
- 2/F Mega Atrium, SM Megamall

- Lower Ground Flr, Robinson's Magnolia

- 2/F, South Arcade, Main Mall Atrium, SM Mall of Asia

- Ground Lvl, SM South Mall

- 5/F South Park, SM Aura Premier

Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday 10am - 10pm

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