Nono's Comfort Kitchen & Bakery

Satisfying is the best word to describe my dining experience at Nono's located at S Maison at Conrad Manila. It was pure bliss to rediscover Filipino comfort food by a Filipino chef. 

L-R: Nono's salad, Roasted beef belly, Parmesan crusted fish with tomato & basil spaghettini, coffee, Pork belly balsamic adobo

I met my cousin, Laura (who is from Malaysia), together with my aunt Pinky for brunch. Laura tagged along with his husband Jeffrey for his meetings in the Philippines. He is the regional director for an international insurance company based in Singapore. They stayed at Conrad Manila atop S Maison. They were here from February 11-16.

The food photos we took may not look as enticing and may not justify how tasty they are. But seriously, everything is comforting. Every dish had a unique and distinct flavor that complemented well with each other. It was reasonably priced too since portion is good for sharing. Nono's salad and pork belly balsamic vinegar were my favorite. And coffee, too!

After dining here, I googled and learned that some of their bestsellers are Nono's home style fried chicken and waffle, Nono's pizza, truffle cream pasta and Nono's chocolate oblivion. As early as now, I'm planning to treat my parents' combined birthday celebration (10 days apart) and try some of those dishes. Spending wisely is also a must these days. 

Sunset at Conrad Manila

At Conrad Manila, you'll get the best view of the sunset along Manila Bay. Guests have the option to go alfresco while enjoying the breeze and the magnificent scenery or be amazed indoors.

Luckily, my work schedule enabled me to spend time with Laura. I was with my aunt Pinky who readily agreed to be with us and took the time off caring for her 5 dogs and 4 cats.

Little did we know that 4 loong hours passed by in a jiffy! We did not only enjoy the food. We filled each other with stories about our health, hobbies, families and our lives in general. How was your last dining experience?

Helpful links:

1. Nono's Comfort Kitchen & Bakery

2. Conrad Manila

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Avocadoria.ph's Avocado Lover: To Die For

With the ambient heat index rising to more than 40 degrees these days, there is no denying that staying indoors is the safest way to beat the scorching heat. As a result, classes are suspended. Some schools conduct online classes on Wednesdays and Thursdays like where my niece studies. Fire and heat stroke are also prevalent at this time. 

The air conditioner turned on may greatly relieve you from the disturbing weather despite the increase in electric consumption. Similarly, a glass filled with cold water may instantaneously quench our thirst.

Photo source: Avocadoria Philippines

There are popular cold desserts and refreshing beverages during this season, too. Ice cream and halo-halo I would say are probably in the top list of everyone. It is interesting to discover how some ingenious Filipinos concoct a variety of flavors by using a wide range of raw ingredients. Thus, my parents and I need to instill discipline - lots of it, so our insulin wouldn't spike.

Imagine this: layers of graham powder, avocado ice cream, pearl tapioca, sliced almond nuts, chia seeds, fresh cubed avocado, and condensed milk. 

This indeed is our cup of bliss!

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Kuya J Restaurant

The situation these days is far different from when the Covid-19 pandemic began. I was appalled with the sea of people in the mall even on a weekday! Since it's summer here, the temperature can be a high 35 degrees (or even higher). Maybe the crowd was window shopping while enjoying the cool environment. Perhaps there's really a need to replenish their pantry or just like us, we decided to have lunch to celebrate my mother's birthday.

 

In the past, she would prepare a number of dishes for the family. I may not be a good cook but I know the hustle of going through it. Normally, it starts from planning, to marketing, to preparing (the ingredients) and then cooking. Whew, such a tedious task! Besides, there is an abundant of restaurants nearby to make this occasion less stressful for the celebrant as she heartily enjoys the food.

Clockwise: beef kare-kare, chicken sisig and pinakbet 

It's our third time to eat at Kuya J's. We agreed unanimously to order something new from their menu and opted for their kare-kare bundle. The dishes were almost cooked to perfection. The beef kare-kare was very soft; it's peanut sauce, rich and thick. The chicken sisig was bursting with so much flavor - it was tender, crispy and quite spicy. Their version of pinakbet, was a bit hard. Maybe we can request to have it cooked thoroughly next time. 

L-R: espesyal and ube halo-halo 

Their espesyal (vanilla flavor) and ube (yam flavor) halo-halo version were way better than the other restaurants who also offer this dessert.  The milk and sugar were incorporated into the water, frozen then shaved, giving a very smooth texture to it! You guessed it right - we truly had a very satisfying meal! By the way, Kuya J Restaurant belongs to the food company who also manages Landers Superstore, Popeyes Philippines, Grandcon, Tsay Cheng Chinese Cuisine and Seafood City. How was your Kuya J experience?

 

Kuya J FB page 
About Kuya J Restaurant

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Tanay Highlands

Another spontaneous trip to the East allowed my parents and I to discover a fairly new dining spot, Tanay Highlands Cafe.

Of all the places I've seen around this area, this is spot on! The magnificence  of the Pililia windmills, Laguna de Bay and part of Sierra Madre can be enjoyed. Admittedly, I am not only in awe but in love. It is arguably the best restaurant with a scenic view!

All three tourist destinations in Rizal, including the fresh breeze many long for can be found here. The winding road uphill replete with bountiful trees is a much better sight than the usual traffic and congestion in the metropolitan. 

We heard that it opened only this February 5th. A group of college graduates from Ateneo de Manila own the place and is still in the process of improving the dining area as well as their menu. This is also a better alternative to Tagaytay and Baguio. More so, it is so much closer to Metro Manila. Parking will never be a problem; an ample and secured space is provided. 

The food selection is good enough to pacify the growling tummies of the motorists. They also have a wide array of beverages to satiate one's thirst. I honestly don't mind the previous because the breathtaking view will suffice. 

FB Page: Tanay Highlands

                                                                                            

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Kape Natividad Roastery and Cafe

With a bahay kubo-like structure minus the walls, Kape Natividad Roastery and Cafe is the go-to restaurant for many bikers or motorcyclists who enjoy the adrenaline rush of passing through the twisting and turning roads of Marilque Hiway. I was initially intrigued with the positive reviews found on their FB page. It was heightened  once I saw their menu because admittedly, the food seemed affordable. Thus I was pleasantly glad we tried here since it did not disappoint.

Once you set foot inside their restaurant, you'll be greeted with the cool air that is gently touching your face. A portion of the Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges, the Laguna de Bay and lots of trees served as a great backdrop instead of the usual blank wall you'll see in a typical restaurant. It is also relaxing to spend some time unhurriedly here, more so if you are a nature lover. The downside was that, you'll have to park your vehicle along the hiway carefully and walk a couple of steps especially if the place is packed with people.

Click for a bigger view and appreciate the beauty

We learned that branch opened only this January after a successful set up of their coffee shop on wheels. They used to have a restaurant along JP Rizal in Marikina but is still close since the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) started last year.

 

Pugon baked meat lovers pizza

Crispy kare-kare

Mushroom burger

Strawberry smoothie

Their menu didn't have so many selections but I now know the reason why people keep on coming back despite the distance from the city. The pizza was really appetizing, oozing with a lot of melted mozarella cheese, pepperoni, smoke bacon and honey ham. It has pugon baked that gave it a distinct taste to it. The kare-kare's meat was indeed crispy and tender. It had a strong taste of the peanut sauce which makes this dish distinct, was tasty even if you forego the bagoong and is best paired with rice. The mushroom burger was shared by my parents. I think they liked it. It was a healthier option (I hope) from the burger fastfood chains we see everywhere. For the beverages, strawbery smoothie and iced cappuccino (not in photo) were as delectable.

Photo from kathyevec

We had an enjoyable time away from our usual routine and definitely a relaxing way to prepare us for the new week's grind.

Kape Natividad FB page 

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Liliw, Laguna: Home of Quality Footwear and Comfort Food

I love nature! As a Manileño, the congested streets and the sight of harried people everywhere are but a common occurrence since I remember. And I feel blessed that my family and I have transferred to a community way better than our previous because the air is definitely fresher, the environment  more peaceful where I can beautify the haven we call our home.

Last Friday, I was able to cajole my parents for another impromptu road trip to Liliw, Laguna via Teresa where I enjoyed viewing the lush and prolific environment I cannot see in the city. Though the route was farther than in SLEX (South Luzon Express Way); it was definitely more relaxing and enjoyable!

A long stretch of an entire street is replete with stores filled with a variety of local shoes, slippers and bags! Liliw, Laguna is known for this product that are sold all over the country. Surprisingly, the items are very affordable! You can get 3 pairs of slippers for only P100. I was also able to get a braided silver body bag for P170 and mind you, the material though synthetic is soft and looks like the genuine leather. More so, the  quality is excellent.

While going around, we found this interesting building - a restaurant with magnificent facade. Because they served food on the second floor minus an elevator, we opted to take a picture instead. And have you observed the contrast between the stark dark sky against the pristine house? Amazing, right?!

Cafe Arabela, known for their pizza, pasta and steak is another restaurant that is quite famous in this vicinity. Despite its low ceiling, the guests will truly go out of the place with a smile and a feeling of contentedness. The crew are hospitable and amiable. The food appetizing and visually appealing!

Chicken galantina

Baked ziti

Lasagna

Chicken pizza

They were generous with the senior and PWD discount as we presented our IDs to them. Thank you! On the contrary, their prices were quite steep and is comparable to the food establishments here in the metro. Then again, we don't visit Liliw, Laguna everyday. Splurging once in every while to make myself and my parents happy is not a bad idea after all.

Facebook page

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Ca Phe Saigon: More Than Just a Vietnamese Restaurant

I will never get tired of hearing inspirational stories first-hand. They are not only encouraging. The recipient of the story may conclude that our gracious God continues to work in the lives of others despite its mundaneness.


Similarly, we don't get to meet people everyday who are happy and triumphant even after their uncountable obstacles that may hinder them to see the glass half full. And I was delighted to meet Mr. Sonny and Mrs. Hynh Thi Huong (Mary Rose) Bonifacio, the owners of Ca Phe Saigon.

(L-R) Mr. Sonny Bonifacio with my parents

Mrs. Hynh Thi Huong (Mary Rose) Bonifacio who later exchanged pleasantries with us

Healthier Food Choices

After the evening service, my parents and I bravely explored the streets of San Roque, Marikina to try the Vietnamese dishes this hole-in-the-wall restaurant offered. I was personally magnetized to this particular place after reading a mixture of good and unpleasant reviews from Zomato. Even the rain did not hinder us from our intent!

Pomelo Salad P220. Chunks of sweet pomelo tossed in shredded cabbage and carrots topped with shrimp and lean pork

Spicy Tamarind Pork Ribs P270. Slow cooked fall off the bone tender pork ribs basted with tamarind sauce. Served with side salad and rice.

Vietnamese Beef Noodle Soup P160. Vietnamese beef pho noodles served with a side of sprouts and basil leaves.

Fresh Rolls P180. Rice noodles with lettuce, mint leaves, lean pork and shrimps all rolled up and served with peanut sauce.

Vietnamese Iced Tea (tamarind and winter melon) P60 per glass and Vietnamese Iced Coffee P100

Fresh basil served for your pho and other condiments at the back

Humble Beginnings

Mr. Sonny Bonifacio, the owner of Ca Phe Saigon took his chance to find his luck in Vietnam with only $100 in his pocket in 1965. For three months, he only ate one meal per day and eventually landed a job. As a Christian, he vowed to the heavens to help other individuals for a year to repay the goodness he had reaped. He worked hard. I remembered him saying, I was from Tondo. I don't want to die poor."


In 1968, Mrs. Hynh Thi Huong (Mary Rose) Bonifacio lived in the Philippines  after Mr. Sonny captured her heart and the rest is history. They have three admirable children. Their youngest is the brain behind Ca Phe Saigon who happens to be the owner of Sweet Apple Creations. The cupcakes she baked were also sold in the restaurant that used to be the family's garage while the bakeshop is located on the other side of their house. Nonetheless, the entire place was very decent, clean, brightly lighted with amiable staff ever ready to answer our questions (regarding their food).

I was also surprised to receive a recycled notebook from Mr. Bonifacio. He shared to us that he used to be the supplier of National Bookstore and had a workshop, enabling his family to earn Php1.5M every year for more than a decade.

The recycled notebook: A thoughtful gesture that touched my heart

Ca Phe Saigon has been in business for more than three years now. I only wish them the best in this industry after meeting how genuine and pure the hearts of the owners were.

Verdict

I enjoyed the pomelo salad. I could eat it for days without getting tired because of its simplicity and fresh ingredients. Their spicy tamarind pork was truly tender; the flavor and level of spiciness were just right. On the contrary, the iced tea (winter melon flavor) was way too sweet. It tasted like the alatiris fruit.

I am excited to try the other salads and fried noodles. More so, I was blessed to witness what hard work, steadfast faith in our Father and passion in life can do. Ca Phe Saigon is not merely a Vietnamese restaurant. My heart was touched after meeting the Bonifacios! I hope you get the chance to meet them soon.

Ca Phe Saigon Zomato link
Ca Phe Saigon Facebook page
Address: 14 Red Cedar St. New Marikina, San Roque Marikina City1800
Contact numbers: 02 6461438 | +63 9178016411

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Dohtonbori, SM City North Edsa: Oishii!

Intrigued by the number of people we always see when we pass by Dohtonbori while in search for a new place to eat, we finally agreed to try their authentic Japanese dishes even though we had to wait to be seated. And would you guess how their food fared? I encourage you to read until the end to find out.

Sukiyaki

Their sukiyaki was unlike the typical bowl commonly served in other Japanese restaurants with much stew and noodles. There were no noodles and very little stew! It was just enough to cook all the ingredients found in the ceramic bowl placed on a griddle. A whole egg was then added before it was served. The presentation was unique and it captured my interest!

Yakiniku: pork & kimchi (above)

 and pork (below)

Cooked Pork & Kimchi Yakiniku

Cooked Yakiniku

"Yakiniku" is a Japanese term for grilled meat. Each platter of thinly sliced meat is 200 grams. 

The pork yakiniku was quite salty. If you plan to order this, you can suggest to use lesser sauce and butter. The taste though was neutralized if you eat rice with it.


The pork and kimchi yakiniku tasted better. The flavor was just right for our taste buds. My nephew O had so much fun with their condiments. He added kewpie (Japanese mayo) and chili flakes to the meat. It was wonderful! We also ordered their rice set that comes with miso soup. Next time, we all agreed to try their onigiri.

Mixed okonomiyaki

while being cooked on the griddle...

The final product!

Their mixed okonomiyaki  (or Japanese pancake) was the very reason we dined here. We were curious to find out its taste and we were certainly delighted to witness how it was cooked.

The ingredients were flour, cabbage, octopus, squid, pork, tempura bits, egg, red pickled ginger, spring onion topped with Japanese mayo. Before serving it to us, barbecue sauce was brushed on top, drizzled with Japanese mayo, and sprinkled with fish powder and Nori (seaweed) bits. Eating it right from the griddle was amazing, bursting with so much flavor!

Verdict:

1. If you are famished and impatient, then this is not the place for you. The food enlisted above were cooked right in front of us on a griddle incorporated in every table. A staff will personally assist you and explain the process.

2. Wait time for the food to be cooked may be long but you're sure of the freshest ingredients. Similarly, the excitement of seeing how the food was prepared and cooked while you salivate and hear your tummy growl was something!

3. The staff were extremely polite, a distinct Japanese trait which makes the experience of dining at Dohtonbori also memorable and remarkable.

So, have you guessed if we were pleased with the food and satisfied with the overall experience despite the wait? Yes, but perhaps we'll exclude pork yakiniku from our favorites . And we will surely go back to try their other house specialties and bestsellers soon!

Dohtonbori SM City
Address: Upper Ground Floor, Main Building
Phone numbers: 372457, 3724579

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Food Around Taipei

One of the best things to do and is always in my bucket list when traveling is to have a taste of the local cuisines, to mingle with the people, observe the environment and enjoy. The moment I get out of the cabin, I keenly look around me and start learning and appreciating.


 Let me share with you the things I enjoyed eating during my entire stay in Taipei:

Bubble Tea is a tea-based drink that originated in Taiwan in the 80s. Having a sip of this refreshing drink with chewy tapioca balls is something you shouldn't miss. It came with a tray of nuts and chips served by truly friendly and helpful staff.

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After being settled, we searched for a place to eat situated on a street filled with many more restaurants, bakeries, convenience stores and shops. Not so far away from the hotel, we walked to the nearest stop light and chose what seemed appealing - a very local restaurant selling the popular noodles and dumplings.

Chili wanton noodles

Steamed dumplings

Wanton noodles

Admittedly, it was very filling. The noodles abundant. The dumplings encased in smooth wanton wrappers that were flavorful and tender unlike the ones we get from the kiosks here filled with extenders.

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My Favorite Place is a restaurant and pub populated by mostly the expats to unwind after a long workday. The food in their menu is fusion. Interestingly, in house water was never served here and in all the restaurants I've been to. They were sold.

Salmon fried rice

Combination platter of chicken wings, fish fillet, cheese sticks, calamares, onion rings

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Before heading to the indoor observatory at Taipei 101, we went around their food court to select from so many food stalls! Undeniably, I was happy with my order. Just the right amount to keep me going until dinner time.

(L-R) Kushikatsu (fried) sweet potato, tako and tempura

Irresistible strawberry custard puff and iced coffee latte

At Agnes b. Cafe

Ornate tiles I needed to capture

@ Agnes b. Cafe

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Cold with tofu, tapioca pearls and sweet potato

Hot with tapioca pearls and glutinous rice

Meet fresh is a refreshment shop that sells fresh juices, popcorn and those in the photo which is like our version of ginataan.

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Souvenirs

1 - Green bean cake. This is like our version of polvoron. My mom thought that perhaps it is made of munggo because of its color. It is creamy but not as sweet.

2 - Chips from 7 11.

3 - Tart nuts. These are packed individually and each has different nuts and ingredients in it.

4 - Mochi made of glutinous rice with six filling likes taro, mung beans, adzuki beans, sesame and peanuts like our own tikoy only elongated in shape.

5 - Pineapple cake. One box contains 10 cakes in a golden box like gold bar that is square in shape.

6 - Drip coffee from the hotel.

7 - 3-in-1 Nescafe Gold which I don't see in the supermarket here these days.

We also had a late lunch at Starbucks once. I failed to capture what we ate because I was amused to witness a lady leaving the table she was occupying for us. We had their turkey sandwich and cold coffee. On another instance, we had dinner at another local restaurant.

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