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Monday, October 29, 2018
MAMA BURGER: FLAGSTAFF'S OWN BURGER JOINT

 Known as the Burger Institution, MAMA BURGER in Flagstaff, Arizona is the go to place for burger junkies and milkshake lovers. I've been to the place roughly 5 times in the past month already. Granted that it's the only burger place that is less than a mile away. It also quickly fills up especially during peak days.
 This old school burger joint is pretty simple. You line up at the counter and order. If you don't want to, there's a drive thru. Remember though, they make your orders as you ask for them so they make take awhile during peak hours. It's a lesson I learned when I visited on a Friday night.
If you do visit, I suggest you get a milkshake. It's pretty good and it isn't too sweet. As long as you don't overdo the mixins, then you should be fine.

Of course since this is a BURGER JOINT, you have a number to choose from. Each has their own nicks and knacks.
 Whatever the case maybe, always go for a meal. You get to pick a side dish like tots or fries and it comes with a drink as well. If you're feeling down, upgrade the drinks to a milkshake.
 Personally, I find the combinations at Mama Burger familiar. I've tried some of them at other restaurants but I still find myself going back. I think it's the feeling of being at home. The place reminds me of what restaurants used to be. Relaxed and chill. The burger patty itself isn't too big and isn't uniform in shape. BUT, it does the trick. The cheese is always present and if you want, they also have veggies in em. Some of the burgers have fries stuffed in between the patty and the bun. SO, it's really up to you with whatever you may want to go. Just to let you know, I do enjoy their version that has some bleu cheese in it. Surprisingly, it wasn't over the top and overpowering. Having bacon in there also helps.
(UN)Fortunately, this is always the case. An empty plate after every meal. It doesn't disappoint so it's definitely worth a try. Take note though, staying inside would make your clothes smell. I suggest eating out and having a nice time under the sun with the perfect view.
MAMA BURGER
991 N Fort Valley Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Opens at 10:30am and closes at 8pm



Disclaimer:Paid for our meals. wrote this based on my experience.
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Friday, October 26, 2018
WHISKY LIVE MANILA 2018. HERE WE GO AGAIN!

So it's been another year of ups and downs but there's something coming in a couple of weeks. ENTER WHISKY LIVE MANILA 2018
 WHISKY LIVE MANILA 2018 would be on November 9 and 10, 2018 in Shangri-La BGC in Taguig. This event would once again showcase different whisky brands and other liquors that would make your week.
 Aside from the usual suspects, we could also expect other old school drinks that our fathers enjoy.
 Personally though, I can't wait to have another sip of the Solist from Kavalan. The flavor and the smoothness of it is just perfect.
"This year, Whisky Live Manila 2018 will once again open its doors to thousands who want to decipher the timeless allure of whisky on November 9 and 10, 2018 at the Shangri-La Hotel at the Fort in Bonifacio Global City. Whisky enthusiasts can sample over a 100 whisky brands and variants including the small batch, handcrafted Whisky Live special. The two-day expo will also include Master Classes and talks conducted by international whisky experts. For tickets, log on to whiskylive.ph or visit https://www.facebook.com/WhiskyLiveManila/."




RELATED LINKS:
Whisky Live Manila 2017
Day 2 Whisky Live Manila 2017
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Monday, October 22, 2018
BIGFOOT BBQ: Better Than Your Backyard Brew

When I think about American food, BBQ is one of the first things that come into mind. Granted that their version is quite different from the Filipino kind, it is still very delicious and goes well with rice. (Un)fortunately for me, BIGFOOT BBQ, didn't have any rice on their menu. If that would have been the case, I would have ordered more than 1 serving.
BIGFOOT BBQ is a well known establishment in downtown Flagstaff. It's sort of an open secret between locals and visitors. It may take awhile for you to find it but it sure is worth a visit. Located on the basement of an arcade, you won't really know that there is a restaurant there.
Once you go down the stairs, make a uturn, and then you see this crafty place where you could get your belly full. Now, BBQ in America is different because of the way they cook it and also of the flavor. At BIGFOOT, they use hickory wood for their smokers. It gives a deep and smoky flavor to the meat that it cooks.
Ordering is quite simple. Head on over to the counter and take your pick. There are platters for groups and yes solo meals as well.
While waiting for your order, you could get some complimentary peanuts on the side.
You also get to pick which sauce you might want. There's the original, which is also served with your dish. Then there is the spicy version and something else. Best go and mix and match.
From what I understand, the menu boils down to 5 things. Sandwiches, Links, Ribs, Brisket/Pulled Pork and other meats, and sides. Now I maybe wrong, but BIGFOOT created different partnership between these items to make you a damn good meal. Plus, they also have happy hour with cocktails and even sides.
Personally, I would suggest that you order some alcohol with your meal. This one could pick up your mood and enhance the flavor of the dishes.
Now, most of their delicious creations are partnered  with a side. You take your pick from a list but the sweet potato fries are pretty good. The mac and cheese was just okay and the sweet potato mash has some cinnamon in it.
Moving on, there is this link (or sausage) that is smothered with burnt ends and tons of toppings. I forgot what it is called but heck, it was one amazing dog. (It's called the smokin bulldawg. A sausage topped with burnt ends, cheese, onions, and bbq sauce.)
Just looking at it up close makes my mouth water. I'm definitely drooling right now as I remember the juicy and tangy flavor of each bite.
If your're not a fan of links, they also have briskets and ribs as I had mentioned.
Remember though, also go for the BURNT END. This is the part of the meat that is a bit crunchy and juicy because as the name suggest, it's that good.
BIGFOOT BBQ is located in the Old Town Shops, 120 N Leroux St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001. Just head on over and go down the stairs.

Parking might be a problem as it's all on the streets and you have to pay for it. BIGFOOT is one of those establishments that gives you "an hour free parking" when you visit them. (Just ask and you get a d/c on your bill-haven't tried it yet). Cheers.




Disclaimer: paid for our meals. wrote this based on my experience and opinions.
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Monday, October 15, 2018
IKEA TEMPE: More Than Enough Reason To Visit

 After working hard and having a couple of sleepless nights, I figured a drive is in order. Granted that I haven't had any sleep yet, driving for almost 3 hours back and forth is a bad idea.
But, getting a view like this is the way to go. On the way down to Phoenix from Flagstaff, there's a rest area that gives you a glimpse into nature's beauty. You might want to visit SUNSET POINT when you're on the 17.
 Back to business, visiting IKEA is like going to the Phoenix Airport and a bit more. Just after it, you'll enter Tempe and that is where IKEA is located. Ever since I had my first taste of Ikea in Singapore (Link: IKEA I LOVE YOU.) more than 5 years ago, I have been craving their meatballs every time I get the chance. This was no exception.
 In true Ikea fashion, all of their stores are covered with yellow and blue. Each designed to be alike to one another. The restaurant is located on the second floor and it's the start of everything.
 Remember to get 3 trays and a trolley, just so that you could get everything and anything your heart's desire.
 Prices are also quite reasonable. That's why it's amazing and perfect to visit IKEA's restaurant.
 Now, different Ikea stores have different approaches to their menu but they are quite similar. Affordable and delicious. Just like this smoked salmon with vinaigrette. It hits the spot in every way.
 Unfortunately, not everything in the menu is great. The Chicken tender was just okay. Compared to the chicken dishes that I would always go for when in Malaysia and Singapore, the chicken here is coated and deep fried in true American fashion. The fries though were pretty good.
 And of course the main reason of my long drive. THIS MEATBALL DISH!!!!! It's moist and comforting. The sauce and the gravy are perfect with one another. It may not be for everyone but heck, it is so good. For vegetarians, they have those version as well.
 Dessert was spot on. We tried out the chocolate cake and the DEIM. A swedish almond cake, this one is covered with caramel and chocolate. So darn good.
Of course after eating, you could go for a walk around the place to make your visit worthwhile. You get to relax and burn the extra calories you've gained because of this meal.



RELATED LINK:
IKEA I LOVE YOU!

IKEA TEMPE
2110 W Ikea Way, Tempe, AZ 85284



Disclaimer:Paid for our meals. Wrote this based on my experience.
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Monday, October 8, 2018
5 REASONS TO BRING US DEHY INTO YOUR KITCHEN

Just recently, I discovered that establishments in the food industry are using a “hack” to make their lives a bit easier. I believe that we too can use this in our everyday lives. I’m talking about US DEHYDRATED POTATOES.
Check out why US DEHY is the next best thing to ever happen and why we could use this in our everyday cooking.
1.     US DEHY is your amazing potatoes just without water. Made with premium potatoes from the US, they are processed under the stringent standards of the US Department of Agriculture to ensure food safety and quality.  Usually, they’re created from white-fleshed Russet potatoes that makes it creamier.
2. It's all about Storage. Since you've removed the water content, these babies are now lightweight and compact. Also, there's a long shelf life that's about 2 years.
3. It's a more convenient way of having your potatoes. You don't need to wash, peel, and boil. Plus, they have different variants all ready for you to use and pick up. It's simple.
4. It's healthy. All the nutrients that are found in potatoes are in there and are just waiting for you to utilize. Also, you get to stop food wastage. Since, you have the exact amount needed, there's no need to throw away the excess. Just store them up properly and you're good to go.
5. Bottom line is that it's definitely going to make you save money. Typically, one kilo could rehydrate to as much as five kilos, giving you a larger yield. You also don't have to worry about storage and space.
Using US DEHY is pretty easy. To create mashed potatoes, you just have to combine water, salt, and butter. Heat it up to a boil, then remove it from the heat. Add cold milk and gently stir in the US DEHY POTATO FLAKES or GRANULES. You could add more flakes depending on the texture you may want.
It’s pretty straightforward. As Filipinos, we could incorporate US DEHY into kaldereta, menudo, huma, and afritada. Basically everything and anything that needs potatoes. It will surprise you that you can also use US DEHY to make Halaya, many other baked goodies and hotdogs, yes, hotdogs!

Of course, you could also make potato pancakes, waffles, and event potato croquettes for snacks.

If you’re thinking about other ways of creating potato recipes, head on over to www.potatogoodness.com/potato-recipes/. You could also check out US DEHY through their website potatoesusa.com/potato-products/dehydrated-potatoes.




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