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Thursday, March 26, 2015
OSAKA OHSHO in Manila: TEPPANYAKI with your GYOZA

GYOZA is the specialty of OSAKA OHSHO. It is their main man. BUT there comes a time something new pops up.

Every so often, as foodies we tend to look for something more. That is where, OSAKA OHSHO has been stepping up. They introduced something different. TEPPANYAKI. 

Over lunch a week or so back, I, along with some friends, were invited to try out their new stuff. 

I was actually imagining how it would be. I thought there would be a show by a chef or a table top burner but lucky me, they just did the cooking in the kitchen. I can never do proper cooking while eating. Not really my type. 

Anyway, off we go. 
Not really a TEPPANYAKI dish but the BLACK CHAHAN of OSAKA OHSHO is one of their best rice dishes. I really enjoy eating it. A little salty but it goes well with their dishes. Please get this when you go there. You will know why once you have a spoonful.

Then just like that, they started to serve everything. We had the PRAWN TEPPANYAKI (495Php)
Huge pieces of prawn that anyone would love to eat. Lightly seasoned to make the shrimp flavor beam out. Eat this quick as it might get rubbery if you let it cool of.

 BACON CUT PORK BELLY ASPARAGUS (250Php) is an easy favorite. The asparagus makes each bite crunchy. Although I am not a fan of veggies, wrapping it with pork belly had me enjoy every bite.

With bacon you can never go wrong, so they also had the SALMON BACON (370Php)
Sweet sauce with each bite. Add a dash of lemon and boom, it is a different dish. Thank you Bacon.

Another easy favorite is the MIXED MUSHROOM and BACON (310Php). Yes, it is because of the bacon.
Made with different mushrooms, the mouth feel makes it a joy to eat. It uses shitake, shimeji, and eringi with some asparagus to help it become crunchier.

and now to the more healthier stuff.

 SAKANA MATSURI (420Php) is a play on seafood. Different cuts of fishes were cooked teppanyaki style. 

Pink Salmon, Blue Marlin and Yellow Fin Tuna. Not really a fish person but I did enjoy trying it out. Look ma, I'm getting healthy.

MIXED SHELLFISH (325Php) is another one to go for. I would easily pick this for my seafood dish.
Generous serving of scallops, mussels and clams. Yummy stuff! The trick is, to save space in front of you so that the staff could place this dish there. This is what you do to get first dibs. 

 IKA SUGATAKI (250Php) is their way of getting squid done. Although this dish is a bit spicy. I did enjoy it with a lot of rice. 

and to culminate the meal, the SAKE BEEF (330Php) should be your ender. Sliced beef seasoned and seasoned with sake with a lot of garlic and butter. Damn it is great with RICE and more RICE!
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These new dishes were added to make the OSAKA OHSHO's experience fuller. I enjoyed the TEPPANYAKI dishes as they give a lot more choices for the dinners. Anything with bacon should be ordered and also the mixed seafood is a steal. Go for that too. 
Will be back with my family to try this with them.


OSAKA OHSHO
3rd floor
Megamall,
Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila
 Facebook

Disclaimer: Wrote this based on my experience and views. Was invited to try out OO's new offerings
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Tuesday, March 24, 2015
Revisiting BREAKFAST and PIES: My last day at work.


It was just that. Start of another chapter in life.

Maginhawa St., is the place to go to when looking for up and coming restaurants. It is known as the food street in quezon city. One of the best places to go to for a food trip. My go to place there would have to be BREAKFAST and PIES. WHY? Because I love breakfast food. 

BREAKFAST and PIES is from the creator of PINO, PIPINO, and even BACKYARD. (check my experience here, here , here ).

I don't know but their COUNTRY FRIES is something . Every time I go there, this is my go to snack.

Fries done right with a side of spicy dip. I liked it.

For egg lovers, the SKILLET FRITATA is the way to go. Better than an omelet, because it has everything you would every wanted. This is the better deal. Bigger and better.


Their ULTIMATE BACON RICE needs more improvement.  The bacon slab was a little dry but the bacon jam is a genius way of making it better.

The EGGS BENNY is something for the indecisive. The eggs were runny inside while in soft boiled formed.

The bacon is just that bacon. Not on the crunchy side but pork goodness.

The CARAMELIZED SPAM is a genius. HUGE loads of spam that is sweet with egg properly cooked. Thank God. I just hate it when they over cook the eggs.
The amount of spam is good for two. The small piece of kimchi underneath the egg helped in giving another dimension to the taste. and yes, you need to order extra rice.

and for less guilt. Go for the SUGAR FREE APPLE PIE.
a lot of apple slices made for the better. I loved it.



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Choco chip cookie.... just like that..
It was my last day at work. My last hurrah. Another bite of the cookie done.  
Another part of life to move into. Let's see what happens.

 Enjoying my last day of work with good food. Eating breakfast food is the way to go to comfort the soul and the tummy. I enjoyed every bite of it. When an old chapter ends, a new one starts.
Sorry for the random thoughts but you know what.. I enjoyed it. 


BREAKFAST and PIES
7am to 10pm 
39 Malingap Street, Teachers Village, Quezon City


Disclaimer: Wrote this based on my experience. Paid for our meals.
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Sunday, March 22, 2015
TUS' IS YOURS: Alabang's Clay pots and Skillets

TUS means Yours.

Another reason to visit down south, TUS Clay Pots and Skillets in Alabang offers wonderful dishes that makes you relax and feel at home.
Once you enter, you are treated as family. Everything you may need or want is given.
That Saturday night, along with friends, we were able to try out different dishes TUS offered.

Started off with an interesting drink. The PINEAPPLE FLOAT (390 Php/pitcher)
Interesting use of pineapple. We rarely have it as a float and TUS made it so wonderfully well that one glass is not enough.

Complimentary garlic bread were served while waiting for the other dishes.
and you know what we did with it? we had these with the SPINACH DIP (220Php)
It was the perfect dip. Creamy and the bread had that crunch to make it the best partner for the spinach dip. Never mind that it was vegetables. It made every bite yummy.

Aside from the dip, I also enjoyed the JALAPENO CROQUETTES (150Php)
Although the name suggested that it was spicy, it wasn't. It just had a tiny hint of the Jalapeno. Creamy as it was, one piece is not enough.

For snack lovers, the WET BEEF BURRITO (370 Php) is the perfect almost a snack item that they have.
 The burrito rice is covered with salsa and cheese. The question is what is inside? Of course there is rice, and beef and when you mix them all together, you get a wonderful delicious, surprise.

A folded pizza if you will. This BLT CALZONE (430Php) is one huge baby.
Almost as long as my arm, it is stuffed with lettuce, bacon, tomatoes, cheddar and has a side of aoili sauce to enjoy the mix.

But, for their specialty, I would suggest you go for their POT PIES. TUS' Pot Pies is almost similar to pizza pies. They are stuffed and a joy to eat.
The HOUSE SAUSAGE (390 Php/ top) is a made out of love. They make their own sausages in house to make you taste their hard work and enjoy it with them. The MARGHERITA (380Php/ right) is something for the healthy eaters and yet even non veggie lovers would agree that they enjoyed this dish. Basic as it can be. Fresh tomatoes, fresh basil and olive oil.

But for me, I enjoyed their CHICKEN RANCH (360Php). Pan Seared chicken tossed in buffalo sauce topped with homemade ranch dressing. This is freaking good! Believe me, I was already full and yet I could stop getting that "one more piece".

Now , I know there are healthy eaters also that aren't into meat, and this is a dish that you guys will like. The PAN SEARED SALMON FILLET (450Php)
 Served with herbed rice, it is the perfect dish

and for the big boys, they serve this big sized skillet steak
Each with their own merit, you can't go wrong with what ever you decide to get.
These babies are rib-eye cut and cooked to your preference.

CHEESE and ONIONS (630Php) ... The cheese is perfect with any type of meat.


THE SPICY LEMON PESTO (630Php) . Herby flavor due to the pesto that carries a little punch.

THE HERBED BUTTER STEAK (620Php) Topped with a mix of herbs and butter.

You can't go to the TUS without trying out their dessert.

They have their own version of TIRAMISU (220Php). The flavors were all present and it wasn't too soggy. 
The cake absorbed everything that it makes we jump for joy because of the coffee flavor.


If you must order only one dish, please have the HALF BAKED COOKIE (160Php)
You can't properly describe this dish without trying it multiple times. With every bite, you are entertained with the soft, gooey, and chewy consistency that it has. Not too sweet and not too hot, the vanilla ice cream on the side, gives the temperature contrast that it needs. It makes your taste buds feel as if you are in heaven. If only they could make that scoop bigger and that cookie larger. This is bliss.


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Tus serves amazing not your ordinary comfort food down south. A visit is warranted even if there is only a need for dessert. The pineapple float, the chicken ranch pot pie, and the half baked cookie can make me go down south in a heart beat. I truly enjoyed my stay with them. Budget around 400-500 Php per person.


TUS CLAY POTS AND SKILLETS
D1 WestGate Center, Filinvest Corp. Alabang
+632 8283178
+63 917 5680964

 
Facebook
www.tusrestaurant.com

Disclaimer: Was invited to try out Tus, Thank you very much Tus for the wonderful dinner. I truly enjoyed it. I wrote this based on my views and opinions.
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Wednesday, March 18, 2015
5 REASONS WHY I LOVE COMMERCENTER CINEMAS

And one day, I found myself again in ALABANG. Commercenter to be exact. I had a few hours of down time, so with friends, we roamed this little mall. 

 This time around, I was impressed. Unlike the last time I visited, there were a lot of stores in house now. Aside from THE BLACK PIG, there were a lot of interesting restos (click here for my experience.). Everything was vibrant without the huge number of patrons you would see in other malls in the metro.

Since we came from a heavy lunch, we led ourselves to the Cinema to watch and take a breather.

Anyway, I am jumping way ahead. 
So here is my list of Why I love the COMMERCENTER CINEMAS.

1) Parking is free. Nuff Said! During my visit, underground parking was free and spacious. 

2) There was practically no lines.
This wing was pretty new. I remembered the last time I was here and it was sealed off. 

 3) Security is pretty tight.
 Aside from guards roaming around, the staff is courteous and helpful.

 4) The cinema is brand new!!!! and the temp is just right.
 The four cinema houses dolby surround sound and these wonderful chairs.
 I love how the seats are cushioned well. Being a big guy, this is pretty important. Believe it or not, I kind of "destroyed" a cinema chair when I watched in a movie house in Alabang ... So let me tell you these are the sturdy kind. 
Also, the leg space was well thought off. The back rest could be adjusted  just a little bit so you could relax. Perfect also for that date night, as the arm rest could be moved for "your moment".

 and of course 5) Spending some time with loved ones. Friends and family is an integral part of a fun time. Being with them during this trip made everything swell! Commercenter made it easier and more chill.


SO, Marge of  Coffeehan and Roch of The Dice in the Board


and yes... the mandatory welfie infront of the huge mirror
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Fun times! Will definitely be back.


Commercenter Cinemas
Commercenter Alabang, Commerce Avenue corner Filinvest Avenue,
Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City
Right infront of Acacia Hotel.
(02) 812 2540
Facebook



BTW:

In case you guys have cars, why not have it checked at BRIDGESTONE.
It is found right besides the entrance to the parking.
I know a lot of car enthusiasts that may find your selves there. So why not have your cars checked out.
** pic from Bridgestone's FB page.
Facebook

Disclaimer: was invited to check out the cinemas, wrote this post based on my experience.
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Monday, March 16, 2015
BUTAMARU in Alabang: Porking up your Ramen!

The Ramen Craze definitely has invaded the metro and it is here to stay. For the past year or so, Ramen stores have opened left and right in the metro. Down South, one ramen place stands out. That is BUTAMARU. 

Yes, I found myself down south again. Although I am quite familiar with the area due to previous engagements, I didn't know that there is a ramen place here worthy of a visit. BUTAMARU is that place.
What does BUTAMARU stands for? BUTA is pork while MARU is round or circle.

A little background on BUTAMARU:
They make their tonkotsu broth for 16 hours. Yes that long. For inspiration, the ramen was based on variations of Hakata-syle. They learned the art of ramen making from Sugimura-san of Menko noodle company. A master artisan in the field of ramen.  

Once you enter, you are greeted by the staff. The ground floor has the kitchen and a long bar while the upstairs houses the booths and tables for big parties.

On a foodie Saturday, along with friends, we were able to try out their offerings.
We started off we gyozas. They served 3 kinds.

From CHEESE GYOZA...
 Rich cheese flavor which happens to be my favorite of the bunch.

To the usual GYOZA (130Php) and CURRY GYOZA (150Php)
 The normal gyoza was filled with the perfect pork while the curry flavor was different and very distinct. The use of Aburi Chasyu and a special type of curry paste made it so.

 Don't forget their specialty. THE CHASHU (150Php), I suggest you get this for maximum goodness.
This slices of glorious meat made the meal incredible. Imagine a caramelized flavor attached to this tender slice of meat. Incredibly good and delicious.

In case you didn't want ramen, you should try their TAKANA CHAHAN (200Php)
 Japanese Syled Fried Rice that is a meal into itself.

and of course if you just wanted plain rice, that could be arranged.

With CHASHU DON (280Php).
 You get the perfect BUTAMARU ROAST PORK over steamed Japanese rice and soft boiled eggs. I will definitely go back for this. I know it is a Ramen Place but still, it serves the perfect pork that is the best to partner with rice.

Another dish that I would go back for is the RAMEN SALAD (280Php)
Beautiful with all the colors, this is a noodle dish with fresh vegetables tossed in Black sesame. The noodles were firm and incredibly good. This is a cold noodle dish that I definitely love.

Going for the big boys, here are the ramen.

TANTANMEN (350Php) is basically spicy peanut and sesame. You could go for spicy or mild.
Be warned though, mild already has a bit of spicy while spicy is really super spicy. If you can take the heat, I dare you, go for it.

 To make it more interesting, you could have it with curry. CURRY TANTANMEN (350Php)


If spicy ramen doesn't appeal to you, I would suggest you get a dose of SHIO (300 Php).
Salt based Tonkotsu. It gives you a broth so rich but just right for your ramen cravings.

Since I just had spicy stuff, I went for the SHOYU (320Php). It is soy sauce based Tonkotsu.
It was a little salty, I will admit but the noodles were cooked perfectly and complimented the broth well. I loved it.

Special mention would have to be the eggs. Yes, I did have an extra order. No ramen is perfect without eggs. If I were you order an extra. It is so worth it. It wasn't over cooked so it was great with the ramen.

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BUTAMARU seats in a quiet side of town. Down south with some incredible restaurants in a small compound, it stands out. As I said, I wouldn't mind going back and braving the traffic to have another go with BUTAMARU. The prices are reasonable compared to other Ramen places and yes, their CHASHU is the bomb! Budget around 400 Php per person. It is so worth it.




BUTAMARU
CE405 Westgate Center,
Commerce Avenue cor. Filinvest Avenue ,
Alabang, 1781 Muntinlupa City
(632)8874255
http://www.butamaruramen.com/
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Note: They allow take outs although, since this is ramen, it would be better to eat it in house.
Disclaimer: Was invited to try out Butamaru. Wrote this based on my experience and views.
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