-=Razzle Dazzle Rizzy=-

Happy Prints!

2010-02-20T17:01:00.003+08:00

Uncle Rommel playing paparazzi..

La Tienda De Tuy @ Tuy, Batangas - A Yummy Secret

2010-02-16T22:17:00.006+08:00

The first place that Pen, our friend who is now based in Batangas, instantly suggested when we were in Batangas was La Tienda De Tuy ---- and the moment Rommel heard they serve healthy, there were no second thoughts. We hurried to the car and convoyed our way to Brgy. Guinhawa at Tuy.

We were welcomed by Tita Chato, the lady owner of the house, who gave a quick tour of where the veggies are grown.

Each plant is placed in a pot and equally plotted in a styro foam padding so the plant will receive enough sunlight and at the same time get enough water that it needs.

For love of family and the environment, Chito Zabrte Jr., created an innovative way of growing organic vegetables for a shorter period and promoting healthy eating in western Batangas. --taken from the Sunday BIZ

With a setup as perfect as this, you know you could expect the best!

The store opens as early as 8am to serve breakfast and closes at 6. Tita Chato will even be the one to serve you your dishes and explain what she put in it.

We were about 10 people who ate there so we were able to order just about everything in the menu. To start, we were served with bread and balsamic vinegar. I tell you, the balsamic dip mixed with olive oil and parmesan cheese it the best! Too bad they didn't have the vinegar in stock, I would've wanted to bring a bottle home.

1. Puttanesca Classic - P70

2. Tuna Pasta - P70

3. Grilled Chicken Salad - P60

4. Dory Meal - P180

5. Balsamic Chicken Meal - P160

6. La Tien De tuy Clubhouse

7. Soup of the Day - P35

8. Coffee - P35 and Cookies - P75 (about 3-4 pieces in a bag)

There were also other places around the store where you could walk around at and take pictures.

I would recommend this to foodies and my health conscious readers to try our La Tienda de Tuy. It will truly be a yummy experience.

Address:

The Launch: Ninyo Fusion Cuisine @ Katipunan

2010-02-10T10:02:00.006+08:00

The day of the launch finally came.

Our group came in early so we could all take pictures of the prep. With the place all lit up, walking towards the gazebo had me speechless. It was a short escape from the noise, the pollution and the chaos we are all used to right here in Manila.

The tables were well set.. the glasses carefully wiped..

And with regards to the food, I shall let the photos speak for itself.

SMOKED FISH AND SHIITAKE HARUMAKI
Crispy fried spring rolls of smoked fish, spring vegetables, fresh gobo and shiitake. Served with Yuzu thai dipping sauce

MESQUITE SMOKED DUCK BREAST WITH FOIE GRAS
Set on dehydrated apple chips

ASIAN GRAVLAX
Set on wasabi linguine pasta

WAGYU TOPBLADE
Set on pumpkin risoni and Japanese rice cracker served with pumpkin soup

CHICKEN SATAY
With Japanese sweet tofu and mixed greens

NEW ZEALAND BAKED MUSSELS
With wasabi gruyere

PATOYAKI
Duck and foie gras-stuffed balls

The food was great. But the highlight of the night for me was the wine they served.

We were lucky to meet Genaro Yupangco, a wine importer from Yupangco Wines Elysium who had us taste French wines from Canada. His Ed Hardy Wines by Christian Audigier collection is interesting because the skull and tattoo prints are actually the same as those you see on shirts, skateboards, belts..etc.

Ever heard of the "ice wine"? It was my first time too.

It turns out these were made from grapes frozen at below 10degrees and and then squeezed to make the drink. It was very sweet and thick.. Just the way I like it!

And the rest was history. We all had fun and I'm sure all their other guests had fun too!

Nino and Carla Laus

and the CinematicConcepts

Visit Ninyo when you're around Katipunan. I tell you, you won't regret it.

Directions: From the Fort, Take C5 all the way to Katipunan, make a U-turn at the first slot you see, turn right after Mc Donald's and another right on the first street. (Ninyo is located at 66 E.Abada St., just behind Katipunan Avenue.)

Teaser: Evercrest Golf and Country Club, Batangas

2010-02-09T14:57:00.006+08:00

Their energies were as high as the sun...

...their sense of humor, boundless!!

This is JUST a preview of our comical afternoon together. Get ready for more.

The Product Shoot: NINYO - Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge

2010-02-08T22:20:00.020+08:00

Chef Nino Laus and his sister Carla Laus, invited the Cinematic Concepts team over to Katipunan for a two part shoot for the launch of NINYO FUSION CUISINE AND WINE LOUNGE.

Day 1's objective was to shoot the place and the food for their brochures/AVP to be shown on the opening night:

Carla, the managing director and public relations officer, explained that this place used to be a part of their house and was renovated to fit a restaurant for Nino's culinary likings.

If the trees, the furnitures and the ambient lighting aren't enough to send a relaxing vibe, wait until you go inside and see a mix of modern and tradition. It was pretty both inside and out. T'was my first time here and it didn't take long for me to pull out my camera and start shooting.

This was the newly renovated 2nd floor - The Wine Lounge.

And their wine cellar (photo below on the left).

They also have a wall filled with empty wine bottles (photo above on the right). At first, I thought it was put there to add ambiance --- It turns out, these were empty bottles consumed by Ninyo's customers! These bottles were personally signed by the person/group who consumed them.

While Rommel and Iggy were setting up the place so we can photograph the food, Tita Asunta and I visited the kitchen to watch Nino in action.

Nino was definitely hands-on and I noticed that he was very meticulous.

Shortly after, the food was ready.
Among the menu, here are my favorites:

Duck with Foie Gras in dehydrated apples -- This is not on the menu YET.. :( Too bad, coz it was definitely my favorite!

Pig Trotters Katsudon Style

Crispy fried Shiraz-braised pig trotters drizzled with katsudon sauce set on foie gras fried rice topped with watercress relish in raspberry dressing. -- The meat had this taste my tongue could not distinguish. It was sweet and salty, soft and crunchy all at the same time!!!

This was work all right...... but it didn't stop us all from having fun.

Chef Nino's work did not disappoint at all. In fact, it was even more than expected. His creations are truly unique and one would have to keep coming back to see if he has more inside his sleeve. After all the food have been photographed (and EATEN!) and the place well-documented, DAY 1 was a Wrap!

Stay tuned for Day2....

Directions: From the Fort, Take C5 all the way to Katipunan, make a U-turn at the first slot you see, turn right after Mc Donald's and another right on the first street. (Ninyo is located at 66 E.Abada St., just behind Katipunan Avenue.)

Jeff and Aconie's Cebu Wedding

2010-02-03T10:56:00.006+08:00

A kiss is still a kiss be it the French way or any other way. The couple had their guests blown away after showing off to the crowd in the queue of "You may now kiss the bride".

It was a kiss....

after a kiss....

after another kiss...........

(believe me when I say there are more kissing pictures to follow, so stay tuned)
----- I knew this was only the beggining.

Jeff and Aconie vowed to live as one at the Archbishop's Palace in Cebu City last January 23. Cebu city lies 375 miles (600 km) southeast of Manila and is 45 minutes away by plane. What started off as a one-of-a-kind prenup in Bantayan last November, ended up to be another intense wedding photos by the Cinematic Concepts team.

It was a day of artistry, friendship and romance. Rommel and I truly had a blast.

Just some food for thought from a site I ran into: http://www.bridallistings.com/wedding_traditions_explained.htm

Meaning of "Wedding"
"Wedding" literally meant the purchase of a bride for breeding purposes. The word wedding comes from the root meaning to "gamble" or "wager". The Anglo-Saxon word "wedd" meant that the groom would vow to marry the woman, but it also meant the money or barter that the groom paid the bride's father. This is believed why it is still customary for the father-of-the-bride to "give away" his daughter.

Cheers to forever, Jeff and Conie!

Wait til you see the final photos from http://www.cinematiconcepts.com/!

Lunch Buffet @ Basix, Dusit Hotel

2010-01-31T11:01:00.011+08:00

It was about 1pm yesterday when we were at Dusit for Cinematic Concepts' coverage of the Easy Phamax's event. Iggy was just about to have lunch so we decided to tag along. Another BIG BIG thanks to ENJOY Philippines because of it's 50% off on lunch buffet rates for a maximum of three.

Regular lunch and dinner buffet rates are as follows:

Lunch - Php 1,150 net per person, inclusive of free-flow drinks

(softdrinks, chilled juices, local beers and wines)

Dinner - Php 1,299 net per person, inclusive of free-flow drinks

(softdrinks, chilled juices, local beers and wines)

Opening Hours:

Daily 24-Hours

Daily Breakfast Buffet: 6am - 10am

Daily Lunch Buffet: 11.30am - 3pm

Daily Dinner Buffet: 6pm -10pm

Honestly, it was the free-fowing drinks that got us in. Basix offered a wide selection of multicultural buffet. Your mind would go crazy deciding what you'd want to have first.

They had:
Bread and butter

Japanese food freshly prepared by master chefs
Fresh seafood such as oysters, clams and shrimps

Fresh leaves and wide variety of salads

Delicious dimsums

Huge portions of turkey meat, lambs and steaks

The BEST part for me, DESSERTS!!!
Basix could make you your own choice of crepes

Freshly cut fruits

Mouthwatering cakes and a chocolate fondue

Free flowing softdrinks, chilled juices, local beers and wines

A cup of brewed coffee to end the feast

TOTAL BILL PAID for 3 persons: (thank you Enjoy!)
P 1,800.00

Hungry yet? Come and visit Dusit and try it out for yourself.

For more information and reservations, please contact Basix
T: +63 (2) 867 3333 ext. 3346E-mail: dtmn.basix@dusit.com

One Long Drive to Calabarzon --- My First Time @ Quezon

2010-01-28T23:30:00.011+08:00

Located East of Metro Manila is the province of Quezon. This is also where Agusto"Ugu" Bigyan, a ceramic artist, put up his workshop and opened for visitors to admire.

It was a really long drive to Quezon but was well worth it. His house exhibited a lot of his works that were nice to take pictures of and pose at.

This is actually one of the few pictures we have together in a photo and his kuya was very nice to have taken it.

As a kid, I've always been scared of big jars. Thanks to Ugu's work, I realized I still am! =)

We found a really heavy and delicate face mask and decided to take a few shots with it. It was put back the way it was ofcourse.. Hopefully all it's visitors would give the same treatment.

For the finale', our lunch: (...served with the freshest ingredients)

1.) Ugu's specialty: Langka

2.) Giant clam soup

3.) Inihaw na Liempo (My Favorite!)

4.) Paco Salad

5.) Calamares

6.) Sweet and Sour Fish

Overall, the food wasn't spectacular. It was good but it didn't really blow me away. I cannot say the same for his workshop though, because I loved every corner, and every artifact in it! One last head's up. Ugu's workshop isn't really easy to find. Drive slow and keep your eyes open when you get to Tiaong to save time and gasoline.

Reminiscin' on our 1st Family Day of 2010

2010-01-26T18:54:00.001+08:00

IMAX @ MOA

2010-01-26T13:43:00.004+08:00

Just like every couple, family, sisters, friends who go to MOA for the IMAX, we did too.. and got ourselves our own cellphone-taken picture of us wearing those 3D glasses. =)

Though we like to do extra ordinarily crazy trips together, it's never too boring to spend a normal afternoon watching a movie and eating popcorn.

These photos was taken last Christmas break when we watched A Christmas Carol at IMAX.

Brian's Ribs @ Casa Verde, Cebu

2010-01-12T21:58:00.004+08:00

Let me put it this way -- Casa Verde serves the best ribs my P188.00 could ever buy. The taste would honestly par to that of Fridays' but their price is seriously unbeatable!

Try their watermelon salad too while you're at it. Just add P98.00 more and you're all set!

Though I continue to wonder why the price is cheap, I would highly recommend this specially those of you who'd be visiting Cebu for the coming Sinulog ----- You just have to have a taste of their enormous slab of ribs!

Casa Verde
V. Ranudo Ext.
Santa Cruz, Cebu City, Central Visayas, Philippines

Heart's Day in December -- Our Christmas Dinner at Aubergine, the Fort

2009-12-27T15:24:00.008+08:00

This is our second Christmas spent together and it's getting better and better every year.

The thing I love the most about Rommel is how he serenades me with unending goodness -- good food, good pictures and good memories! Last Monday, we called Aubergine to reserve dinner seats for two for Dec.25 and were lucky to get the last two seats available for that night.

He knows I love steaks and so for each and every special occasion that we Celebrate together (Anniversaries, Birthdays and Holidays), he feeds me with steak and Christmas 2009 was no exception.

So far, I've had steak at the country's finest restaurants like Antonio's in Tagaytay, Elbert's Steak House, Gulliver's of San Fransisco.... you name it, I've tried it so I was very excited to try Aubergine out because I've been hearing many good things about this restaurant.

For our appetizers on the house, they served Portabello mushrooms, and Feta cheese.

We also ordered the Chef's specialty appetizer for the night.

It was a good start. Perfect to tingle the taste buds.

Aubergine surf and turf
Grilled lobster tail and roasted Australian Mulwarra beef tenderloin with sautéed mushrooms and seared duck foie gras, Béarnaise sauce and Madeira jus, rosemary – potato gratin and assorted vegetables

The dish was very well prepared. Medium rare as how he likes it.
The meat was so tender most specially the foie gras! I could not even count in my fingers the numbers of times he said this. We even noticed how perfect the cut was for each and every vegetable on the plate. "Mismo!" is the best way he could describe it.

US Angus beef rib – eye steak
(330 grams)

Sauces: Port wine jus, Madagascar green peppercorn sauce, mushroom sauce, Béarnaise sauce, parsley-cilantro chimi churri sauce, Café de Paris butter
Additional side orders:

Starches: Mashed potato, potato gratin, baked potato, French fries, pasta, rice pilaf, vegetable potato cassoulette

My steak was the bomb! It was so delicious I was simply blown away!

The ambiance at Aubergine could be a lot of things... Fun and happy for families who dine there; Formal for those who spend their meetings there; and last but not least, Romantic for two people.. just like how it was for Rommel and me. The food was to die for, I was simply blown away!

The manager of Aubergine was nice enough to accompany me inside the kitchen were the chef were at work. It was being in another place!

Thank you all for the great food!

After last night's date, I can't wait for 2010's Christmas dinner!

Merry Christmas!!! Try it out, you won't regret it.

Aubergine's Restaurants and Patisserie, Fort Bonifacio

32nd & 5th Bldg, 32nd cor. 5th St., Fort Bonifacio

Taguig City, Metro Manila

(02) 856-9888

www.aubergine.ph

Behind Closed Doors @ Enchanted Kingdom

2009-12-20T22:08:00.009+08:00

Last night was unbelievably unexpected................

I knew that papa was gonna play at Enchanted but what I didn't know was that they were gonna launch the newly renovated Space Shuttle MAX.

So what comes along with being his daughter? .. Free Entrance, Unlimited Rides, AND being a pilot rider of the most awaited ride at Enchanted Kingdom! (thanks dad, you're the best!)

Moving on to the band, last night was spectacular!!!

The music was heart raising and the crowd danced like crazy!

The band played old songs like "You'll Never Find", "September", "Rock with You" which made a lot of people dance to it's beat but the best part for me, (and I guess for the rest of the audience too), was when they played songs like "Closer", "Insomnia" and "Nobody But You". Everyone jumped around and danced. The crowd piled up in front of the stage and started screaming I could not believe my eyes.

I was also lucky to have seen and met the owner of Enchanted Kingdom. That's her, by the way, the girl in white pants singing with the band and having a lot of fun.

I've heard these songs a lot of times but will never get tired of listening and watching how this band makes a lot of people forget their problems even for just a little while.

Drummer or no drummer, you have my 100% support in everything, dad! I love you!

Behind Closed Doors, Manila's Finest Retro Band

2009-12-19T12:19:00.006+08:00

One of the most sought out band here in Metro Manila and abroad is Behind Closed Doors. They play retro and ballroom songs that would make you go gaga! They play every night on different hotel bars and was recently sent to Vietnam to play.

Rommel and I got the chance to do a little photo shoot with the band after their first set at Lancaster hotel last Wednesday. The goal was to take pictures of the band to be placed in a tarp for Dusit Hotel where the band will be playing too.

After a lot of fun shots, we came out with these:
(papa is one of the guys here. no need to point him out coz i think you'll find the resemblance)

For inquiries on their gigs, leave me a message. =)

Christmas Party '09 @ the Blue Leaf

2009-12-17T21:57:00.006+08:00

It was a night of games, good food and new acquaintances. The best part for me was that we had to dress up Mafia-style ---- men in their almost formal wear and women in their sexy clothes.

I didn't bring Sebastian, my camera, that night coz other than the reason that I wanted to be in the pictures, bringing along a big camera wasn't part of my outfit.

Good thing Marc brought his. The Blue Leaf had a very unique ambiance and one couldn't help but take a shot at it.

This is Marc and his newly discovered drink.

...this is Marc again after a few bottles? =)

I love to dress up. Come to think of it, don't we all wear our own little costumes everyday?

My teammates were game in dressing up that night. I'm so lucky that they're as vain as me because it didn't take long until everybody posed right in front of where I was standing. It was the waterfall-effect that made me fall in love with this spot and I was very much pleased with the output.

Thank you, teammates. Cheers to more pictorials together. =)

Under the Umbrella Tree @ Santa Fe Beach Resort, Cebu City

2009-12-11T22:04:00.009+08:00

photos were taken under the umbrella tree at the Santa Fe Beach Resort in Cebu City.

A Peek inside Ogtong Cave, Cebu

2009-12-11T21:01:00.004+08:00

Rommel and I did a prenup shoot for Jeff and Conie in Cebu.

Thanks to the soon-to-be-couple, we discovered the breathtaking Ogtong Cave!

The cave and the water had a lot of things in common: cold, clean and mysterious.

The water was so clear I saw a couple of fishes swimming around even without my goggles on. Stepping from one rock to another could be quite tricky too. The rocks are of different heights you'd really need to watch your step.

I honestly couldn't find an adjective that would justify how beautiful this cave is. Access to the cave is free if you're checked-in Santa Fe Beach Resort and a very small entrance fee will be paid by for those who are visiting from outside the resort.

Kudos to the resort owners for maintaining the cave in it's perfect state.

I will be back soon and will bring along as much people as I could so they could also see how magical this place is.

Climbing down the Fire Exit

2009-12-07T23:16:00.003+08:00

Was I up for another high? I SURE WAS!

This was me, climbing down like a firefighter.

Disclaimer: it may seem like it was close to the ground but it gave me goosebumps looking down from where I was standing. Took a while for me to let go and hang myself on the pole and just let myself slide.

And as expected, it felt good completing the "challenge" ;)

A Date in Paradise Sugar Beach, Cebu City

2009-12-07T10:08:00.007+08:00

It was a day spent in Paradise.

Any other word would be an understatement.

Unlike Boracay, Cebu's Sugar beach has a wider beachfront that would give you enough time to appreciate the fine white sand before dipping into the clear water.

And because there weren't much people there, for a moment, it felt like we had the beach to ourselves.

The water was as clear as crystal I could still see my knees at 4 feet deep.

We saw this jellyfish swimming alone while we were heading back to the shore.

T'was another nice moment to add to our life journal. *A date in Paradise*
Besides, it's not everyday we get to date in a place as beautiful as this!

Hippity-Hoppin' @ Santa Fe Beach Club, Cebu City

2009-12-05T10:53:00.001+08:00

I had so much fun it was hard to keep it all to myself

photo by Rommel Diaz

effects by me. =)

How To Get To Bantayan Island

2009-12-03T13:01:00.010+08:00

From the North Terminal, we rode a non-airconditioned bus that left at 630am.

Bus fare: P108/head

It was a three hour drive to the boat terminal and while everyone else was asleep, I was taking pictures of what I saw along the way. There were plenty of beautiful people, trees, mountains, rivers, clouds. The air was fresh and the sorroundings were very clean!

Unfortunately, we got to the terminal at 9:35am and missed boat by 5 minutes!

The next trip was scheduled at 11:30am so we decided to have brunch at the waiting area and bought ihaw-ihaws and puso (It is same as our rice but is wrapped like "suman"). I loved their chorizo. It sort of tasted like longaniza to me, sweet and filling!

After a few more waits, we we're off to Bantayan.

We rode what they called RORO. A big boat that can carry people and cars too.

We got the first class seats which costs P160/head + P5 again for the terminal fee.
Our seat was airconditioned and had a TV inside.

After an hour at sea, we finally arrived. It was sooooooooooo BEAUTIFUL!

Below were my first glimpse of the island. Need I say more?

Stay tuned for more of my trip to Bantayan! =)

Tryin' Out Edge Coaster, Cebu City

2009-12-02T22:48:00.012+08:00

I've been wanting to try this ride since the last time we were both in Cebu but didn't get the chance to because of the Sinulog crowd piling up every establishement. This time around, I had no plans of saying "pass".

The ride costs P600. A photographer would be waiting at the sides to take your picture (and let you pay ofcourse) but you can bring someone with you to take your picture just like what Rommel, my videographer, and Charles, my photographer did. =) Those who'd be staying at the view deck to take your photos will have to pay P300. Thanks to ENJOY card, they both only paid P150.

When we agreed that I was the only one who'd ride and they'd take my picture, I quickly said YES! But walking up the stairs, towards my ride felt like walking towards death! I'm scared of heights, scared of falling, gets dizzy easily ---- so this is understandably a CHALLENGE I was facing head-on at that time. The boys were all smiles when they saw me hop in.

The thing about this ride is that you'd be the one to control your tilt. I did finish the ride, and did tilt my seat once in a while but I couldn't forget how I couldn't stop screaming!

I would recommend that you try the ride once but for P600, the second time around is quite expensive.

Pictorials followed afterwards. I wanted it to be sort of my trophy for facing the challenge. I'm proud of myself and I'm so glad I'm still alive. =)

Top of the City view, Cebu City

2009-12-02T22:21:00.001+08:00

After dinner at Wang Shan Lo which I will post pictures later on, Conie's family brought us at the top of the building for a spectacular night view of the city.

It was light sight seeing in Antipolo, only better. The lights, the moving vehicles, the wind at the top of the building gave me a real high that I never wanted to stop.

I could guess that Rommel had fun too coz he was taking pictures 90% of the time!

It was so peaceful it felt so romantic. Rommel and I were both speechless, I gave him a little kiss, as the mood dictated.

Veranda Pictures @ Mactan, Cebu

2009-12-02T22:09:00.002+08:00

This is Rommel and Me, playing models at the veranda..

Thank you SUN for such wonderful lighting!

Ayala Mall, Cebu

2009-12-01T19:44:00.002+08:00

The Ayala Mall is very popular in Cebu City. This is were most of the Cebuanos hang out at because it's easily accessible and have a lot of stores/restaurants inside the mall.

We wasted no time and quickly checked out what's in and out of the mall.

After about 2 hours of walking around, we stopped for coffee.

And then we found this:

A wall that exactly matched the colors of what I was wearing that morning. Automatically, the objective of my photo was to blend with the wall. It was so much fun posing! =)

Accessory Shopping @ Cebu

2009-12-01T18:30:00.000+08:00

As soon as the plane hit Cebu, we checked in our luggages then we were off to Ayala Mall for lunch.

It was about lunchtime and I'm pretty sure we were both hungry but when we passed by an accessory shop inside the mall, my world stopped there.

Though my eyes were full, my stomach still hungry. We left shortly after to buy lunch.

Snicker's New Haircut - another shih-tzu album

2009-11-25T21:44:00.008+08:00

Do you remember Snickers?

He's our male Shih-Tzu, the daddy of our of 2 pups, Ginger & Pepper.

I was surprised to see him when I got home today.

From a big muscular-looking male dog ---- He now looks like a tiny big-eyed pup!

His teeth are funny but he's still soooooo adorable!

I'm pretty sure he's happy with his new haircut too.
It's now more "presko" after losing all those hair.

Moving on to Hershey, Snicker's mate:
Look at how she stared!!!
I think she got a bit jealous from all the attention.

This is what Pepper looks like now.

Topview of our chubby chubby chubby pup!!

It was hard to run after Ginger so I wasn't able to take a picture of him.

I gave all of them big hugs afterwards. How could you resist such cuties like them.

Royce' Chocolate

2009-11-23T23:29:00.004+08:00

T'was my first time to try the much talked about Royce' and the experience was unforgettable. It's the best dark chocolate I've tasted so far -- truly a great upper for people who are feeling melancholic.

Rommel, with Royce' as his backup, completely turned my day upside down!

Thank you for this new experience. I loved every bite!
You can buy Royce at the ground floor of Greenbelt5

The new Venice Piazza Mall @ MKH, Taguig

2009-11-21T11:16:00.019+08:00

I was excited to see that the mall right across Rommel's office already opened. On our carpool nights, I could go earlier and stroll/[shop? :)] around while I wait.

Last night, after my much awaited movie, New Moon, we decided to stop by Starbucks, MKH just before heading home.

Surprise, surprise, another impromptu stopover. Where did we go this time? THE VENICE PIAZZA mall. I had a hint* it'll be another fun fun time... And it sure was! =)

*hint - a camera on his hand.

I posed in front of the fountain, the buildings, the carvings, the stairs, did a jumpshot, and took 1 photo of Rommel. There was nothing more I could ask for.

The best part was that there were not to much people so I was able to freely run and hop around the place.

After all these, went to Starbucks. =)

do i still need to mention that the photos are by Rommel? :D

Ultimate Taste Test 3 - Banang's

2009-11-18T19:51:00.008+08:00

BANANG's is among the many Awesome suppliers who joined the third round of Our Awesome Planet's Ultimate Taste Test. It's my favorite of them all so I'll write about this first.

What's great about Anton's UTT (Ultimate Taste Test) is that the attendees could freely interview the suppliers and instantly buy from them too! I got a chance to quickly chat with the owner and found out that it was actually his mom's recipe and that he's only there to market it for her.

I would rate all of Banang's dishes (as per Anton's survey) as a perfect 5-Definitely Awesome.

Although it's bagoong based, it's not too salty -- just the right amount to allow your taste buds to savor every bite.

Bicol Express

Chicken Adobo

Laing

Hungry yet? =)

....I have more to blog!

My biggest thanks to ourawesomeplanet.com for this yummy event!

If you wanna view previous post on UTT 3.0, click here.

Bridal Fair shoot, Crown Plaza Hotel

2009-11-18T06:42:00.000+08:00

In every photoshoot, there is a 5 second moment where Rommel and I would take a short break and say our Hi's from a far.

I was surprised to see this photo taken by Engie coz this was that day's 5 seconds.

more of our Paparazzi moments:

Rommel with all the other Photographers.

Good Burgers

2009-11-17T23:19:00.005+08:00

My mom's burgers are the best for me that's why I find it very hard to like others sold in the market.

Last week, while we were on our way to QC, we passed by this burger joint called Good Burgers. I've seen this before in Kapitolyo and I remember Rommel telling me that they use veggie meat so I lure him into going to another resto to eat. But this time, he really wanted to try this one out so we did.

I ordered BLT while he got the 3 cheese. Surprisingly, I loved it! My mom's still my #1 choice though. =)

My BLT cost P110 while Rommel's 3cheese P120. We also got spicy wedges which costs P40. Since it was only for take out, we ate our dinner in the car, which was another first.

One plus could be that it's healthier than the normal meat burger coz they use veggie meat. I remember raving about this to my officemates the following morning so it must be really special. Go ahead and try it. It's a bit expensive but definitely worth the try.

Good Burgers

Located along C5 road. (see picture above)

@Project4, Quezon City

2009-11-16T20:43:00.007+08:00

I like how pictures tell a story and how I can keep them forever.

This is an album of Pen's return-surprise-gift for his wife, Engie.

My new friends -- Weng, Clarence, Dondie

And bloup.

One of the many greats that Manny Pacquiao can do..

2009-11-16T17:12:00.008+08:00

Reunite old friends.

There is still so much to discover about Rommel and spending time with his friends is a great way to get to know him more. With that said, I look forward to the next one. =)

@ NUVO, Greenbelt 2

2009-11-16T11:14:00.005+08:00

Our next trip was at Nuvo's were Marge's hand-made accessories were shown off.

Let me just say that Marge creates wonderful accessories that even I imagine myself wear. It was a great show indeed!

With the right connections, we were able to pull off getting in and drinking, free of charge. I met new friends too -- Marge, Pat and Henry.

And because the drinks kept coming, it was hard to keep sane. So here's us @ Nuvo.

.........and our photographer: Rommel

Duri Korean Restaurant @ Robinson's Galleria

2009-11-14T16:45:00.005+08:00

Pen, Engie, Rommel and I had an 'in-between-shoot' dinner because we just came from Crown Plaza Hotel covering a bridal fair and then will be off to Nuvo, Gbelt4 for another fashion show right after.

Pen and Engie are Duri fans, proof below: *peace, Engie*

And so, on our first quadruple dinner together, they suggested we try this Korean resto located at the fist floor of Robinson's Galleria Mall.

For dinner we had:

Kimchi >> which is not my thing but is Rommel's, and he loved it!

Korean BBQ? >> It was beef on a sizzling plate that sort of tasted like barbeque. I don't remember the name but it was good.

Fried Dumplings >> to dipp in a sweet and spicy black sauce.

Noodles & Rice >> the noodles looked like "sotanghon". It was very tasty and tummy-filling if eaten with rice.

If you're in search for Korean food on a budget, Duri is definitely the place to go! I was surprised that we didn't pay much for all these that we ordered.

It was nice to also have spent dinner with Engie and Pen. They really are a couple to admire.

Duri Korean Restaurant

East Lane, Robinsons Galleria, Ortigas Ave.,
Quezon City
Business Hours: 10:00 AM-9:00 PM
Price Range: Php 200 or less

Texas Roadhouse Grill @ High Street

2009-11-12T22:23:00.007+08:00

Another of our dinning escapades was a visit to Texas Roadhouse Grill at Bonifacio High Street.

Though their menu was overflowing with steaks and grilled meat, I had my eyes set on their Southwestern Cobb Salad which I saw the waiter bring to another table nearby.

It had chicken, eggs, bacon, cheese, tomatoes and the leaves.

The combination of all these ingredients was my perfect picture of a good salad. Not too much leaves and not too much of the dressing either so I highly recommend it.

The chicken, as how Rommel would describe something good, is "Mismo!"

A bottle of beer would also come with a bowl of dried nuts and a bucket for the trash.. I'm not certain but I think that that's a Texas Roadhouse signature.

Step 1: Pick a nut

Step 2: Open it up

Step 3: Throw shell in the bucket.

It's fun to date. But nothing beats dating and sharing good food at the same time.
So, until our next one! =)

Keepers @ Malcolm's Place, Makati

2009-11-12T11:43:00.006+08:00

At first I thought, we're friends 'coz we're all the same:

- we worked in the same company

- we joined the same batch

- we all programmed

- we ranted and raved about the same things

Four years after, some things changed

- we work for different companies

- we reside in 3 different countries (Philippines, Japan, Singapore)

- not all program

- we rant and rave about totally different things/PEOPLE.. =)

Eliza, Perk

Cha

Kai, Cza

on webcam: Sheen(upper left), Aimee(below)

But hey guess what, we've been friends EVERYDAY. Everyday, since June 2005. I've realized that we weren't bound by our similarities....... We are 7 different people each with different personalities supporting each other in 7 different ways.

Each of them have a special place in my heart. I am their keeper, and they are mine.

OAP's Taste Test III @ the Fort

2009-11-10T23:17:00.018+08:00

OAP is on it's third round of Ultimate Taste Test for this year alone.

I could never get tired of attending, taking pictures and (the best part) eating!!! There was just so much food if not for the taste test survey, I'd lose track.

Here's a little "backstage" peak before the food tasting event officially opened.

The Preparation...

The Registration...

The daters:

Cha

Rommel

Visit Our Awesome Planet's blog (ourawesomeplanet.com) for the results of the Ultimate Taste Test 3.

If you're curious as to which was good, watch out for my next entry. I'll write about the ones I actually tasted, and ofcourse, post pictures!!! =)

Teaser: Reunion, Keeper's Style @ Malcolm's Place, Makati

2009-11-10T22:57:00.006+08:00

After more than two years, today, we we're finally reunited!

The best thing about it is that it's no one's special day today ----- It was an ordinary Tuesday made special by no other than my keepers.

Pictures at Malcolm's Place will follow. In the meantime, here's us. On YM.

Japan: Sheen

Singapore: Aims

Philippines: Cha, Eliza, Cza, Perk, Kai :)

Flower Series: Part2 >> Gladiolas

2009-11-07T09:49:00.006+08:00

October 31 is our get together time with my Mom's sisters and their families. I think they're already used to me taking alone time with my camera whenever we have family gatherings like these so as long as I'm there, it counts.

Being at a cemetery face to face with our departed's grave is a scene that just forces me to reflect on the life I've lived. October 31 is my reminder that I should celebrate the greatness of being alive and appreciate the people who loves me.

As I took pictures of the flowers I saw, I thank the Lord above for my parents, brother and sisters, Rommel and my friends who keep me sane and unbelievably contented.

Yes, You all are my inspiration.

Flower Series: Part1 >> Orchids

2009-11-07T03:05:00.005+08:00

I love flowers, specially takin' pictures of them.

Every 31st day of October, my family visits our departed loved ones at the Holy Cross Memorial Park in Novaliches. Last year, I took photos of random people. This year, it was flowers.

This is the first of a series of posts showing the different flowers our family brought at HCMP. Let me know if you like it. =)

@Gilligan's, Glorietta 5

2009-11-05T21:55:00.005+08:00

It was our good friend Pen's birthday so his family thought of giving him a surprise birthday dinner at Gilligan's, Glorietta5. Pen's family together with Pen's closest friends waited like children to sing the first note of the song Happy Birthday the moment he stepped inside the restaurant.. And also like a kid, Pen enjoyed every moment of it.

It was the first time I met his whole family and I'm glad I did.

Uhmm.. Weng? How many hours has it been since? =)

Pen (in orange) holding his YUMMY ice cream cake c/o Weng.

Playin' Paparazzi @ High Street

2009-11-03T21:15:00.007+08:00

Like many others who go to High Street to take pictures, Rommel and I went to High Street for an assignment he needed to accomplish featuring Manila/Taguig.

Luckily, at 4pm, the sun was shinning brightly so we got the chance to capture everything exactly how we saw them.

Our date place: Bonifacio High Street, Global City, Taguig

My day's output =)

It was fun playing paparazzi .............until he noticed HE WAS MY SUBJECT.

Until next time.....

Over @ MCS

2009-11-03T09:52:00.002+08:00

Nothing beats the company of good friends and some very good alcohol..

Back LIt Galdiola

2009-11-02T11:24:00.002+08:00

My favorite so far.....

KIRIN, Chinese resto @ the Fort, High Street

2009-10-28T00:07:00.016+08:00

It was very timely that we were also in High Street and have just paid the bill @ Friday's, coz a few minutes after, Rommel's phone rang.

"Uncle Rommel...", it was Rommel's nephew inviting us to meet them at Kirin and so even with a full stomach, we went to see the kiddies!

Kirin is a new establishment along High Street that serve Chinese dishes. The ceiling was high and the place well lit. Thinking about it, I could name a few Chinese restaurants with high ceilings. It gave a very pleasing and calm feel the moment I entered. It wasn't hard to find his brother and nephews table. They were already eating when we got there and having a bulging tummy didn't stop us from trying the food out.

Shrimp in dumpling wraps

Spinach Soup

Lechon Macau

How was is? Hmmm.... okay. Not too good, not too bad either. The prices were a bit high too compared to the size of the serving. I'd like to give kudos to the lechon macau -- it was cooked just the way I like it. I suggest you try eating here too, there's always room for firsts. =)

Some of our other pictures during that night:

Monday @ Friday's

2009-10-27T00:54:00.008+08:00

What would be better than a GC from Friday's? .............hmmm, a kiss?? =)

Kidding aside, dinner at Friday's is always something I look forward to. I could just close my eyes and point at the menu and know it would taste good. I felt the same rush when Rommel handed me a GC... And from the parking, led the way to Friday's -- smiling.

We ordered the Broccoli Cheese Soup bowl to start

Followed by a yummy Chicken Salad

and Pork Liempo.

We would normally be good after a bowl of soup and salad.. but tonight was an exception. As expected, I was full and satisfied. Until our next visit, Friday's.

I had fun today, thanks blouo.

Capriocciosa, Greenbelt 3

2009-10-24T11:18:00.008+08:00

On nights we don't have an SLR on-hand, camera phones become a blessing! =)

We had dinner at Capricciosa, Greenbelt5 right after work. T'was my first time to try squid ink pasta because I know how it puts color on your lips. But since it was goin' home time after, I thought, why not?

Calamari & Onion in squid ink sauce pasta - Size: Regular, Price: P364, good for 2.

Th daters, Rommel and me, enjoying our delicious order. I'm no fan of squid ink sauce but this was worth the try.

And it's just never complete without a bottle of red wine

Our pick for the night, Merlot from Chile.

Capricciosa, Greenbelt 3.

3/F Greenbelt 3, Paseo de Roxas

cor. Legaspi St., Ayala Center.

Makati City, Metro Manila.

(02) 757-7811

Lunch @ NorthPark, MarketMarket

2009-10-24T10:17:00.005+08:00

And because it was Jhedd's birthday, she treated us for lunch @ NorthPark.

Me & Jhedd

No food shots this time.

Just candid ones.. and then some... =)