Animae Cibus - Food for the Soul

Join me in my quest as I continually search in every street, restaurant, cafe, mall, and island across the globe for the Holy Grail of cooking, the Calypso of my taste buds, and the ambrosia of my mortal soul.

[animaecibus]

Japanese Sweets at Micky’s

By: W.E.L.L.

    After hosting a long and tedious speech contest in Toastmasters International, I feel so exhausting and I immediately craved for some sugar remedy to give me an instant burst of energy to help me sustain throughout the day. Luckily, Dale was into the same vortex when I wanted to have a sweet escape from usual bitter Saturday afternoon boredom. So, we immediately hopped into his car and drove some few kilometers from Baseline Restaurant towards our first food trip destination: Miki’s Japanese Cake.

  This place is highly recommended by Dale since his pastry teacher in his culinary arts class recommend this hole in the wall little café to give our full attention. To fully satiate our curiosity and to fulfill our gastronomic expectations, we ended up in this cute little pastry shop located near Parklane International Hotel and a walk away from Ayala Center Mall.  The bistro type architectural exterior of the place gave a chic and sophisticated perception giving us second thought of coming in since we are in a very tight budget that time. Since were already there and there is no more turning back after that ride from our previous destination, we got inside the place and find ourselves setting in the corner of the small room giving us a wider perspective of the whole cake shop. The festive color of orange and yellow made us anticipate for more dessert and the classy atmosphere reminiscent of typical coffee shop gave the whole interior an excellent blend of sophistication and vibrancy.

  As I looked in the menu board I got to realized that not all desserts shops or restaurants in fancy trimmings and chic drapes always come with a higher price tag. In fact, in my amusement, the prices ranges from 100 to 180 pesos for the cakes which is relatively cheaper for some well-known pastry shops with better goodwill but lesser satisfaction guaranteed. I tried to look at their menu list but I am more interested in just pointing the most appealing and beautiful cake in the stall and order a cup of tea to complement my cold sweet cravings with a hot bitter beverage. There was a wide array of selection but I could not pick all since I have just enough money for a slice of cake and a hot tea.

  After minutes of contemplation, I picked a strawberry cheesecake among the desserts mostly made of chocolate like ganash and parfait chocolate. I went for a cup of Jasmine tea because my all-time favorite chamomile was not able that day. Dale had a rare chocolate cake and an iced tea with some melted sugar to add based on his sweetness preference. The strawberry cheesecake is appealing to my eyes because of its immaculate white mildly sweet cream to cover the chiffon cake mixed with caramelized strawberries. The perfect mixture of sweetness and sourness of strawberry and the rightful mildness of sweet cream gave me that instant relief from my usual sweet tooth indulgence. Savoring the whole teapot of jasmine tea, I ended up with a filled stomach and a relaxing soul.

 Truly, nothing beats to try venturing in a new cake shop to satisfy my inner sweet craving for my restless soul. 

Follow more of W.E.L.L. in his SHUTTER SPEED AND LIGHT (photo blog), OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (travel blog),  LITERARY JUNKIE(poetry blog), LIFE AS WE NEVER KNOW IT (life blog). 

[animaecibus]

Boodle Fight @ Captain A’s Grill

By: W.E.L.L.

Tired of fine dining experience? Do you just want to enjoy the food you eat without the hassle of using utensils? Want to experience a boodle fight in a fancy restaurant? Captain A’s Grill can give you that wonderful eating expedition helping you relive an ultimate Pinoy style celebration using your bare hands. 

Before boodle fight is used to express camaraderie and unity among military organization in the Philippines, but in this present times, it has been made commercialized and adapted in dining places. Captain A’s Grill was one of the prime users of the boodle fight concept among restaurants here in Cebu and the Philippines.

To celebrate my father’s natal day, we opted to go to Captain A’s Grill since he wanted Filipino food especially the grilled ones and he wanted to try new restaurants with majestic locations and ambience so that my vain father can update his Facebook with new pictures. No wonder vanity can be hereditary sometimes. So, after we heard mass in Sto. Nino Church, we immediately went to Skyrise 3 at I.T. Park to have our early dinner. Since it was still late in the afternoon, we were the first customers to be in the place. The waiters then ushered us in the airconditioned room. 

When the waitress handed in the menu, we were indecisive on which of the several options should we take for this evening. In fact, Captain A’s Seafood Grill has six boodle fight meals to choose from: There’s D’Original, which consists of the original food items in the military tradition; the Battle of Mactan, named after the historical combat between Lapu-Lapu and Ferdinand Magellan; the Loakan Fiesta, named after where the Philippine Military Academy is located; the Sinugba Festival, where all food items are grilled; the Sinulog Feast, named after the biggest festival in the Philippines; and the Birthday Boodle, perfect for those who celebrate their birthdays in Captain A’s Seafood Grill. (adapted from: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/lifestyle/2012/03/11/let-boodle-fight-commence-captain-s-210680) Ivy, my sister, insisted to have the Sinugba festival boodle options since she was craving for grilled food. 

After minutes had passed, the waiters were now carrying the huge tray of palatable and succulent Filipino grilled dishes. A group of waiters also approached our table and shouted some military yells (“Boodle Fight Ha!”) which left my father so startled and stunned for some few seconds, but his senses came back when he smelled the aroma from cornucopia of grilled food festooned in our table. Included in the Sinugba festival food package are Sinugba na Belly, Inihaw na Pusit, Inihaw na Manok, Inihaw na Bangus, Baked Scallops, Inihaw na talong, Ampalaya with Dilis and a round of Fruit salad ang Iced tea. Sophistication aside, I started using my bare hands to eat the sizzling hot seafood served in the tray with banana leaves since my mouth could not stop watering. It felt like I have this nostalgic recollection of my childhood year with my family in the beach every Sunday while enjoying the simple life we had before and quality time with each other. Once again, my older brother was missing in action, but he was not totally gone from the equation since he gave monetary support for the payment of our food for dad’s dinner celebration.

In the end, I was so happy to make my father’s day special which I knew was not enough to reciprocate the love and support he gave us to help me become a responsible man that I am right now. Truly, Captain A’s Grill gave us that ultimate Daddy treat and Boodle Fight delight.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Follow more of W.E.L.L. in his SHUTTER SPEED AND LIGHT (photo blog), OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (travel blog),  LITERARY JUNKIE(poetry blog), LIFE AS WE NEVER KNOW IT (life blog). 

[animaecibus]

REMINISCING SWEET MEMORIES @ Fudge

By: W.E.L.L.

After we had our wild/ cowboy-themed birthday party, we immediately went for some sweet treat to continue igniting the spark of conversation that we started in The Ranch. My high friends Mark and Peter together with Eunice rode Markie’s car on their way their while my college friends Rhonnette, Alexis, Queenie and I got inside our car with my sister as our personal driver for the night.

The place is only 5 minutes from The Ranch so we immediately got in there in no time. We wanted to have a seat inside the desert dining place, unfortunately it was full so we just patiently take some rest outside while waiting for customers to finish their desserts and transfer inside. However, we got so comfortable with the spot so we just finally decided to stay there. 

I went inside to order some of their sweet tempting choices. I had a difficulty in choosing since there are numerous palatable desserts neatly and lusciously displayed inside the glass container. So, I read through the menu and went for three fabulous options that right away caught my fancy. I ordered for chocolate cake with KitKat bars, white chocolate mousse covered with chocolate ganache, choco lava cake, and Ultimate Combo. 

While enjoying the trance of our sweet escape in Fudge, Mark came up with a birthday game called “Crazy Questions.” Each of them will ask a question that I should answer no matter what. The questions they asked where mostly related to love. I had a difficulty answering them since my sister Ivy was all ears and I could not just spill the beans about my secret and enigmatic love affair with her listening. So, I gave my “showbiz” answers making them laugh boisterously. Their big laughs and guffaws are so audible that made this night truly a sweet memory while enjoying the taste of delectable dessert choices. 

In the end, we waved goodbye to each other while bringing home the old good friendship within our hearts and longing for another time that our paths will cross and get intertwined again.  

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Follow more of W.E.L.L. in his SHUTTER SPEED AND LIGHT (photo blog), OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (travel blog),  LITERARY JUNKIE(poetry blog), LIFE AS WE NEVER KNOW IT(life blog). 

[animaecibus]

Walter’s Wild Wild West Bday Bash

By: W.E.L.L.

“Taking Risks and Chances” has been my personal mantra for 2012 and my main goal this year now that I am 24 years old. So far, I had done a lot of changes in my life like shifting to a new job, doing major revisions in my career path, expressing what I truly feel to the one I truly love, transforming my style, and of course trying out new dining spots worthy for my food blog. For my birthday celebration, this will always get one of the best fine dining treats I will have this year as I have a cowboy-theme party at The Ranch located in Banilad Cebu.

Honestly, I had no plans of having a birthday party since I was celebrating a lot of times and for this year I wanted to make it different. I just wanted to have a simple family dinner at home while I do all the cooking. However, my bestfriend Mark insisted that I should always spare a time to enjoy my second life in this world since I am not getting any younger. With that, he pledged to pay for the expenses of my celebration. Immediately, I listed for the people in high school and college that I wanted to join me in this celebration. 

I just wanted a very intimate and small gathering so I chose the people who have been through the thick and thin of my existence. For my high school friends, I included of course my best friend and financier Mark and our class salutatorian Peter. We were very close back then in high school. They are most intelligent in our batch so I always get the scrap for their reputation which is just good also. For my college friends, I have my close travel buddy, Alexis and Queenie together with my big sister Ate Rhonnette. My Supreme Student Council colleagues Joopee, our president, was in Manila and Vert, my close vice president, was so busy so Eunice our vivacious and voluptuous Treasure did the representation for the whole SSC 26th congress. My ever supportive sister is also there to share with us the wonderful experience.

I decided to try The Ranch since I always passed by this place with the very big Woody from Toy Story placed in the entrance of the restaurant making me very curious as to how the place looked like inside. So, after meeting and convening in Ayala Terraces, we went for a short 15-minute car ride to our destination. With the crowded parking lot, there was no doubt that this place was very popular to customers. As we got inside the place, we felt like we are in this cowboy beer parlor or salon in Country and Western movies where people are wearing hats, scarves, blue jeans, and boots.  The Ranch looks so casual, family-oriented, dining area with full bar. The décor is Country and Western, showcasing the horns as well as original wood walls. Truly, the place boasted authentic Old Western tradition, culture and hospitality. 

Since my friends arrived late in our meeting place, we got so hungry so we immediately ordered for food. I personally chose chicken finger for our appetizer just to give us instant burst of energy after getting caught in a traffic jam to the place. Since Rhonnette is now channeling her vegan ideals, I went also for some Roast vegetables. I also tried their Marinara pasta and fish fillet together with myriads of meat dishes like Meat Loaf, Pot Roast, Barbeque Pork, and Cowboy Pork Steak.

It took awhile before the food was served so we grabbed the opportunity to take some pictures, singing a birthday song with Alexis’ cake as gift, and catching up with the stories of our lives. The mixture of people in this celebration was so varied and good thing they share one thing in common: my friendship. I was very happy how my college friends talked and got closer with some of my high school buddies. This was really a good way to build more bridges among my friends making them united and closer with each other. The stories we told were very nostalgic and worth remembering. 

Indeed, my best friend Mark was right that I should celebrate this wonderful day of my birth to rekindle the burning fire of friendship and of course go western and wild in The Ranch at some point. It was truly a night full of good memories.   

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Follow more of W.E.L.L. in his SHUTTER SPEED AND LIGHT (photo blog), OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (travel blog),  LITERARY JUNKIE(poetry blog), LIFE AS WE NEVER KNOW IT(life blog).

[animaecibus]

Dad’s Day Out @ Daddy-Yo Diner

by: W.E.L.L.

Who says that history should not be remembered and vintage is never cool? Daddy-Yo, a newly-opened diner proves that a thing from the past can be given a modern twist and vintage can have a major comeback in the present. 

After we had our early dinner at Abaseria, my father and sister decided to replenish our home goods and went for some grocery shopping at Shopwise, a newly-opened supermarket near our house. When we were on our way to the grocery department, we could not help but notice the tempting and attractive lights in the mezzanine of the store. We immediately went up the mezzanine to have a clearer view of what was this new restaurant selling. To our surprise, we found ourselves sitting inside and have a taste of their food despite the fact that we just had a very heavy meal.

Talk about putting the vintage vibes to the next level!  The ambience tries to be literally a 50′s diner, complete with neon, 50′s movie posters, a vintage car turned into a couch and waitresses dressed like sailors and housemaids. It felt like I traveled back in the time of jukebox instead of mp3's or live band, the time of rock and roll instead of pop music. I couldn’t help but notice the overall cozy atmosphere of the place. Luckily, all I could see were wonderful memorabilia of iconic theater scenes like movie posters that highlight the golden age of vintage and silent movies.

We went to the counter to have our orders taken and I could see from their menu list that they are serving myriads of food selection from heavy snacks to a full meal. Since this is a franchise from the Flame It! Burger, I was eager to order some burgers, unfortunately I can’t take anymore food except for some cold desserts. At least, I had something to look forward to when I will be back here.  We had some chocolate and strawberry sundaes and a bowl of French fries to conclude our eating expedition for the Father’s Day Celebration. 

While I was very busy eating my sundae, I could see the owner milling around the place and she looked so familiar so I gave her a closer look. Surprisingly, she was one of my students in IELTS Review and I was very happy to see her there managing and owning this newly found dining paradise. 

Truly, that day was a day of first time, discoveries, and good company. That was a great chance to have quality time with my parents and also my ever supportive sister. Daddy-Yo Diner really gave us a venue to revisit the past with our good old family conversations while looking forward to our hopes and aspirations for our future. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Follow more of W.E.L.L. in his SHUTTER SPEED AND LIGHT (photo blog), OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (travel blog),  LITERARY JUNKIE(poetry blog), LIFE AS WE NEVER KNOW IT(life blog). 

[animaecibus]

Treating Daddy Out @ Abaseria

By: W.E.L.L.

Father’s Day. It is the time of the year to recognize the man behind every family’s success and the wall of every home. For this year, Ivy and I decided to take a different twist on our usual treat for my father and went for something classy and sophisticated. We tried out a Filipino-native inspired restaurant to give him an opportunity to unleash the vanity and camera freak within at Abaseria.

We went to the place the day before so that we could see the ambiance and the location if it is suitable for our celebration and made necessary reservations. The place was a little bit away from the main city streets so we had difficulty finding it on that day, but we ended up in the right direction after taking some wrong turns within the area. 

As we got inside the place, Papa Edu (how I called my father) immediately made his effortless pose among the native products like wooden sculptures, paintings, and weaved baskets. I enjoyed the homey feeling of the house giving me this wonderful atmosphere to just enjoy a simple quality family time with my mother and sister and also the man who taught me discipline, punctuality, and cleanliness. While my father was busy taking some pics with his daughter as the official shutter bug, I took the role of choosing the food for our early dinner as the waiter gave me the set of food choices in their menu.

The waiter then came in with the palatable dishes that we were very eager to consume. We had Sinigang na Pasayan for our soup, Adobong bangus na Belly, Grilled Squid, Lechon Kawali, Crispy Roasted Pork, and their own specialty Indo Chicken.

We really had a great time with a hearty meal and good conversation with our family despite the fact that my brother, Luigie was not able to make it. I had never seen my father that happy beaming a his pearly whites with a big smile. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Follow more of W.E.L.L. in his SHUTTER SPEED AND LIGHT (photo blog), OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (travel blog),  LITERARY JUNKIE(poetry blog), LIFE AS WE NEVER KNOW IT(life blog). 

[animaecibus]

When the East meets the West @One Claypot House

By: W.E.L.L.

Who would ever think that a restaurant can magically fuse the strength of Oriental and Asian flavor with the sophistication of Western glamour? If you think that the  marriage of Asian cuisine and European style is impossible, then you have not yet tried the newest and trendiest boutique restaurant in Cebu One Claypot House.

Located at the heart of Cebu, specifically in #68 Don Gil Garcia St. Capitol Site, the dining place is easily accessible from people working around the areas of Cebu Doctors, Provincial Capitol Building, and even those living within and outside the city. My sister and I had a difficulty in finding the place since we were not very familiar in that area, but once we were able to see the signage of this chic studio-type restaurant, our hungry anticipation for good food increased tremendously. 

As we got inside this restaurant, Ivy and I could not help but notice the crystal white chandelier and black and white wall accentuated with silver metallic trimmings, borders, and painted curls and curves giving a modern touch to its vintage vibe. It immediately gives me this European sophisticated feeling while enjoying the good view of Grace Kelly’s portrait hanged on the wall. 

The waiter immediately handed in the menu and I was happily surprised to see only very few food selection on it. It gave me an instant feeling of ease since I would not be having a hard time to choose from the list since there are less than ten options to choose from the appetizers than to the refreshments. What really surprised me a lot is that the prices of the tasty food choices were not that pricey in contrast to the grand and sophisticated look of the place. In fact, other commercialized stores and dining places in malls were even more expensive than here.

We right away ordered for the sensational and must try dish “Lah-Lah-Lah Claypot” (Claypot Rice) from Singapore which is a combination of rice, Oriental sauces, and Chinese sausages. To also satisfy our pasta craving, we went for the Tempting Seafood Pasta. For our refreshments, we tried their Milky Bandung, which I believed to be a milk drink that has been flavored with roses by distillation of rose petals. 

In the end, we accomplished two good things in this restaurant: experience the taste of Eastern flavor and feel the class and style of Western glamour. This is truly where the East meets the West here in Cebu. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Follow more of W.E.L.L. in his SHUTTER SPEED AND LIGHT (photo blog), OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (travel blog),  LITERARY JUNKIE(poetry blog), LIFE AS WE NEVER KNOW IT(life blog). 

[animaecibus]

DESSERT STOPOVER @CADI SHACK DINER

BY: W.E.L.L.

After enjoying a sumptuous meal at One Claypot, Ivy and I went for a dessert stopover and we got so indecisive on where to go since there are myriads of newly opened restaurants and dessert shops waiting to be unraveled and explored. So, we just drove around the around of Mabolo to scout another hidden treasure waiting for the food pirates like us to be discovered. Accidentally, with Ivy’s wrong turn towards the right way we are supposed to go, we came across with Cadi Shack Diner. 

The restaurant’s name illuminating in neon lights immediately caught our fancy and we decided to have a quick stop for some refreshments and desserts. So, we got inside this diner-inspired place reminiscent of the glamorous and classical atmosphere of the 50’s. Vintage vibe truly envelops the whole vicinity as we could see the black and white portraits of Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley in the counter’s wall. We could also enjoy the view of some paraphernalia, memorabilia, and collectibles from my father’s golden era of rock and roll and old Hollywood glam. 

The main attraction of this diner is the Cadillac where the inspiration of its theme and name were drawn from. The vintage car occupied almost a third of the restaurant. Actually, it was placed in the garage located adjacent to the restaurant, but the transparent glass made it possible to have a vivid view of it while enjoying a meal with family and friends.

The waiter then gave their menu and I was tempted to order a full meal, but my filled stomach could not take more than it could consume. So, we went for a banana split, Hot Brownie Vanilla Fudge, and a bucket of French fries just to satisfy the sugary craving for dessert and something cold to exhaust the excess summer heat. 

After munching in like ravenous hawks the fries and banana split while discussing the details of the cars and some topics related to driving and cars, we went home with filled stomach and wonderful vintage memories. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Follow more of W.E.L.L. in his SHUTTER SPEED AND LIGHT (photo blog), OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (travel blog),  LITERARY JUNKIE(poetry blog), LIFE AS WE NEVER KNOW IT(life blog). 

[animaecibus]

A CUP OF COFFEE, CUTE ART, AND A GOOD COMPANY @ SUNDAY 2PM CAFE

by: W.E.L.L.

Having trouble of finding that perfect atmosphere to read a good book while sipping a cup of coffee in your own bedroom or at home? Do you feel that reading a book in a library while leafing through the pages of a reading material is totally impossible? Then, Sunday 2pm Café is now giving you that relaxing ambiance just like the comfortable atmosphere we experience in our own bedroom minus all the clutter, minimal space, and disarranged items. 

Sunday 2pm Café is a mini-library themed café that gives customers a wonderful respite from the humdrums of a busy working and study life. It is definitely the newest book nook that bookworms and enthusiasts have been longing for a very long time in Cebu. With the myriads of book selections and other reading reference, one can now enjoy sipping a cup of ice-blended or hot brewed coffee while doing homework, reading books, or even catching up with the stories of your friends. It is giving you that freedom to talk, eat, drink, and laugh which was restricted in a school library or reading section. 

My sister and I just passed by Sarrosa Hotel in Mabolo just to confirm our reservations for our family dinner tomorrow and we could not help but notice this little café located adjacent to the said hotel. We just had our dinner, but I got so attracted with the place that we stop by and ordered some refreshments despite the fullness of our stomachs. 

The waiter came in with their personalized menu that resembles like a diary or scrapbook with the inclusion of cute stickers and stationary cut-outs. We immediately went for some desserts and cold coffee blends. I picked a Heart Toast and a cup of Caramel Macchiato while my sister have some Cappuccino Frappuccino. 

What makes it totally unique from the coffee shops we go is that we can always leave footprints and marks that we had been a costumer their by writing, scribbling, drawing, and coloring in post-its and notepad that are made available in every corner of their study-table type arrangement. Of course, we did not leave the place without leaving some notes and posted on their bookshelves. Aside from that, they have over 1000 books and you can even request a title. Read all you can! If you want to take them home, just pay 200 for deposit. 

Truly, the café’s name has been true to its claim giving you that nostalgic, serene, and wonderful Sunday 2pm experience we always wanted to enjoy. 

(My Sister and I together with Mr. Sean Yoo, the brilliant mind behind his work of art and coffee shop)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Follow more of W.E.L.L. in his SHUTTER SPEED AND LIGHT (photo blog), OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (travel blog),  LITERARY JUNKIE(poetry blog), LIFE AS WE NEVER KNOW IT(life blog). 

[animaecibus]

THIRD TIME’S A CHARM @ SWENSEN’S

 by: W.E.L.L.

First attempt is a disaster, second try is an epic failure, and third time’s my lucky time to try the much celebrated ice cream bar in Mall of Asia and the whole world named Swensen’s.

  I first saw this ice cream parlor when I went to Manila for a Baguio trip with Lexyboo, Alexis, and Kenneth. We were very excited to have a taste of this, however to our dismay, we were so full during that time and the cold and uninviting weather is not suit for an ice cream galore that night. The next time I went to Manila before I go for Puerto Princesa, the idea slipped off my mind as I was very busy trying the Mall of Asia Eye and eating with Hap and Miqs in Army Navy. Fortunately, the third attempt and the divinities and stars are on my side as I had a chance to finally enjoy my first scoop of ice cream and fondue experience inside this magnificent haven for dessert lovers like me and Alexis.

  After we had our Tokyo Café dinner, Alexis, Divine, Caloy, Cheska, Az and I immediately went to the food street in Mall of Asia to get inside Swensen’s. As I entered the threshold of Swensen’s, I was so enticed and allured by the colorful and fun spectrum of colors and designs making me fully hungry to fill my already filled belly with cold cravings.

   The interior of Swensen’s looks like a typical ice cream parlor. There is an ice cream counter on one side while the walls are decked out with pictures of ice cream. The paintings of ice cream specialties and delights were totally tempting us to get our orders done as fast as we could so that we can right away experience the magic of this much celebrated international ice cream hub.

  When the very accommodating and smiling waitress handed in the menu, I got a hard time to choose since all the dessert choices were to pleasing and tempting to try, but my stomach could not even take so we ordered 3 different specialties for the six of us so that we would not waste much and we could split the bill as well.

Divine and I went for a Chocolate Fondue from their Mega Sundae collections. I was drawn to the instant burst of colors from the ice creams of different flavors like peach, mint, chocolate, and strawberry. I did not waste time to dip the wafer and the banana and mango slices which gave a complete mélange of sourness and sweetness, a combination totally made in heaven for my taste buds.

Az and her sister Cheska ordered a bowl of Oreo Brownie, which is also one of my favorites, from the Super Fantasy Supreme Sundae list. Looking at the brown chocolate and Oreo bits, I would definitely dig in to that being a self-confessed chocoholic. Couzos Alexa and Caloy would like to try as well despite their high regard for a healthy diet. They went for Cookies and Cream and Oreo from the Chocolate Fantasy collection. It was smaller from our choices, but it was just enough to satisfy the sugar rush and got into s sweet escape from the healthy eating they now imbibed.

As a whole, though I have to say the desserts were quite pricey for my high expectation for this ice cream destination, the service is quick and the crew is very accommodating. At last, my third attempt is really worth the wait and I can come back home to Cebu with a satisfied heart that I have tried Swensen’s.  

  Follow more of W.E.L.L. in his SHUTTER SPEED AND LIGHT (photo blog), OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (travel blog),  LITERARY JUNKIE(poetry blog), LIFE AS WE NEVER KNOW IT(life blog).

[animaecibus]

Tokyo Café: Western Food with a Japanese Twist

 By: Walter Evans Lasula

  When somebody invites you to a restaurant named “Tokyo Café”, I know you could not start thinking of a typical Japanese sushi and wasabi bar filled people eager to dip their dishes with their chopsticks in a bowl of hot and spicy sauce. However, totally defying people’s perception, Tokyo Café in Mall of Asia is a good misnomer to a popular belief.

  Capricious as I am, I went again for a week-end travel with Divine this time to Manila just to get out from the leash of my boring office life. It was the right time to break the monotony of my work-home-work trance so a stroll in Mall of Asia on a Saturday and a shopping spree on a Sunday morning while catching plane on the same night is a total jetsetter experience worth to check another out from my bucket list (100 things to do before I die).

  After getting into myriads of activities for that day, we ended up with meeting my former colleague at work Alexa and her cousins. I was also very glad to see Az (kudos for the ultimate transformation!) and also Cheska and Caloy.  I had never been this excited to see her again to catch up with the stories of our love, life, career plans, and bullying sessions (which I think I’m the only one who enjoyed it). So, we met in that late afternoon and started to scout for a nice restaurant to fill in our hungry stomach clamoring for a sumptuous dinner while busy also running into some boutiques and book stores.

  As soon as we have passed through all the good restaurants in Mall of Asia, we ended up lured to this very colorful and mouth-watering food display against white modern-looking interiors found in the façade of the restaurant. So, happily we hopped inside the dining place finding a comfortable seat to relax my tired feet after hours of shopping galore (window shopping mostly).

Unlike a typical Japanese restaurant, Tokyo café is completely getting away from the common atmosphere of dimly lit and sober looking Japanese pubs and dining spots putting more contemporary emphasis and Western twist enticing more costumers to dine in. It was like the trendiest brand in New York with a Japanese label complete with white interior and equally cozy atmosphere despite it was too crowded with a lot of costumers waiting impatiently for their order or voraciously eating their succulent meals.

  Getting away from my usual superiority in choosing the dishes to eat, I left the responsibility to Cheska and Az since I was too busy talking with my close colleague who was separated with me for quite a very long time (it was just month, actually).

I just noticed that they had myriads of choices when it comes to foods. It menu is like a cornucopia of all the palatable specialties around the world jam packed in one restaurant. Selections like pizza, sandwich, burgers, steaks, deserts, and crepes fully completed the list.

  After minutes of waiting, the heavily occupied waitress served our dishes and we could not help but instantly nibbled some of the delicious dishes festooned on our table. Cheska and Az did a splendid job choosing the best among the varieties of food options. We had a pepperoni pizza filled with stringy mozzarella served for us to start this sumptuous dinner. Then, the Pork Shoga Yaki, which is made of thinly sliced pork meat cooked in Japanese soy sauce with mashed potato as a side dish, made me fully excited to get some with my fork.

  Also, we went for Hamburg pasta which is a wonderful rendition of the Italian spaghetti accentuated with juicy beef patty and chunky meat sauce. Of course, we also went to satisfy the vegan within us by Tokyo Ceasar which I considered as one of the best ceasar salads I have tasted (to add up my Davao and Simply J’s list). What made this salad special is the unique twist of adding some Japanese sauce to the usual mayonnaise piquant dressing and crunchy croutons, parmesan, and bacon on it.  After our diet talks and conversations to stay healthy that night, we just ended up succumbing to our guilty pleasure of delectable food.

  Truly, Tokyo Café is a surprise worth trying, a mecca to all food pilgrims with picky taste buds for food, and a wonderful place to celebrate friendship with my close friends Alex, Az, and Divine and newly-found buddies Cheska and Caloy.

Follow more of W.E.L.L. in his SHUTTER SPEED AND LIGHT (photo blog), OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (travel blog),  LITERARY JUNKIE(poetry blog), LIFE AS WE NEVER KNOW IT(life blog).

[animaecibus]

THE BIRTH OF FIRE AND FRIENDSHIP AT KWEBA BAR

By: W.E.L.L.

Who says that friends and fire can’t go together? If you do, then you must not have been in Kweba Bar in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

  After our coffee break at Itoy’s Coffee Haus, we got acquainted with a new friend Bram, a Dutch automotive teacher who was also travelling in Puerto Princesa that time. Since it was still early to sleep, we decided to come with Bram and Jonathan for a drink in Kweba Bar located 5-minute vehicle ride from where we were in at the moment.

  This quaint little bar was just located in the main road which was reminiscent of a typical cottage bar often found in beaches and islands. Mostly, the people who were drinking are tourists from different nations bringing along with them their good company as well. The place was quite dingy and dim but the creative lights hanging across the small room illuminated the dark bar giving it a discotheque atmosphere.

  While we were busy exchanging information about our self on travel, countries, and aspirations, we were immediately drawn to a fiery display of two fire dancers for the evening putting too much heat and excitement for the night. The impeccable skill of dancing, twirling and swaying balls of fire entertained us for this very intensely heated night.

  Truly, that night’s exhibition of fire and culmination of new bond was truly a tangible souvenir proving that we can always set a big lasting fire of friendship. 

Follow more of W.E.L.L. in his SHUTTER SPEED AND LIGHT (photo blog), OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (travel blog),  LITERARY JUNKIE(poetry blog), LIFE AS WE NEVER KNOW IT(life blog).

[animaecibus]

Itoy’s Coffee Haus Night Out

by: W.E.L.L.

  After a long and exhausting Underground Cave adventure, it is best to end the day with a good cup of coffee, music, and pastries in Itoy’s Coffee Haus. Being the most popular coffee house in the entire Puerto Princesa city, there is no doubt that many local and tourists flock to this place to try their distinct coffee taste and desserts.

  Being self-confessed nocturnals, Queenie and I were not yet used to the silence of the city streets at the early time of 9 o’clock in the evening. We decided to find the well-advertised coffee hub in all the conspicuous public places in the city. We tried to ask where the place is located and we never realized that it was just adjacent from where we are asking. Sometimes, asking for directions is as funny as really looking for the place without even asking.

  We immediately hopped inside this little café and we were greeted by a musician singing country and acoustic music. Aside from that, the café is also surrounded with a lot of Christmas decorations giving a vibrant feeling to the whole place. There were crates and wooden boxes made into intricate interior designs with labels of their different branches across the Philippines. With the great combination of contemporary aesthetics and soothing music to the ears, we got a relaxing even ahead of us.

  We right away looked at their menu and ordered their coffee specialties. What separates them from the rest of the coffee bars in the Philippines is that they give their own names to generic coffee flavors like Kape ni Itoy for Cappucino, Paupau’s Cookie Frappe, and Brian’s Pakaplog (Pandesal, Kape, Itlog). The novel names of their drinks made us ordered right away. Since we had enough already for dinner that night, Queenie and I decided to have Panpizza instead to contrast the coldness and sweetness of the frappucino I ordered with its crusty and salty taste.

  When our coffee is served, we instantly took our first few sips while listening to the musician singing Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep” and also Katy Perry’s “Fireworks.”  I have to admit that I got a little bit emotional with these songs for they reminded me of someone in the past, but I guess the excitement that the coffee gave me prevail more since I never sob for these songs that night.

Follow more of W.E.L.L. in his SHUTTER SPEED AND LIGHT (photo blog), OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (travel blog),  LITERARY JUNKIE(poetry blog), LIFE AS WE NEVER KNOW IT(life blog).

[animaecibus]

My First Lobster at Oyster Bay

by: W.E.L.L.

It has been my wildest desire to taste a lobster after hearing a lot of good feedback from friends who have tried it already. However, with the limited financial capability that I have, I think my lobster craving should be place in the back burner for awhile. Then, my sister and I went to this newly constructed seafood restaurant in Mandaue which gained increasing popularity.

  (photo courtesy:http://www.everythingcebu.com/food-dining/oyster-bay-seafood-restaurant-a-walk-through )

The good thing about this dining spot is that is located near the road and you will never miss it since this is so conspicuously placed in Bridges Town Square in Mandaue City.  While we got into the place Ivy and I could see the complete opposite from the dusty and busy atmosphere of the city into its soothing and calming restaurant landscape mimicking that of a seaside. The entire place is surrounded by coconut trees, small ponds and tiny seaside-like waterways wherein small fishes and sharks are the center of attraction. The place took you to a typical vibe of an island paradise dining by the sea with torches and candles glowing the night.

  Hungrily anticipated to feed our food-deprived bellies, Ivy and I ordered our favorite seafood dishes. I got a buttered garlic shrimp while my sister took some baked scallops for the evening. Of course, we ordered a 350-gram lobster to complete our dinner dishes. I had to accompany the waiter to catch a lobster from their aquarium for our dinner and there are myriads of sea creatures like crabs, prawns, oysters, turtles, and even sea snake waiting to be cooked.  As soon as I finished picking the lobster, it was weighed in and directly given to the chef to be cooked. I chose to have the lobster be cooked in a chili sauce since I want it to be spicy and salty to add more appealing taste to it. I was tempted to order some prawns and crabs after seeing their aquarium, but I guess I would never get to appreciate the taste of the lobster if it will be competing with other dishes.

  After some minutes of chitchat and conversation, the lobster in a chili sauce together with the baked scallops and shrimps were served by the waiter. Immediately, I got my first shell from the baked scallops served. I had to admit that it was not the best baked scallops I tasted, but with its right portion of seasoning and cheese really gave it a modern twist. The shrimps are no doubt greatly cooked or I must say I have biases for it already after being a self-confessed “shrimp-aholic”

The lobster, which is the main star of this meal, is a delight for the evening. I believe the overrated lobster in itself was not really that delicious, however with the mixture of chili sauce and other herbs, it was transformed into a delectable sea food dish worthy to try again if money will permit.

  At last, I can place a big checkmark in my bucket list (100 things to do before I Die) for eating a lobster in Oyster Bay. With great food, seafront ambiance, starry night and romantic lights, sharks, and company, you will surely have a wonderful dinner in this new seafood hub in Mandaue City waiting for you to discover.

Follow more of W.E.L.L. in his SHUTTER SPEED AND LIGHT (photo blog), OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (travel blog),  LITERARY JUNKIE(poetry blog), LIFE AS WE NEVER KNOW IT(life blog).

[animaecibus]

BALINSASAYAW DESSERT DELIGHT

By: W.E.L.L.

  If you’re looking for a restaurant with a homey and native ambience right at the middle of the heart of Puerto Princesa, then it is good to try Balinsasayaw Grill Restaurant.

  After our Badjao Seafront dinner, Queenie and Sir King decided to give in to our dessert craving to wrap the seafood adventure in Balinsasayaw Restaurant. “Balinsasayaw”,  named after the local term for the native swiftlets that produce the nido, or bird's nest , is one of the cities’ pride that provide delectable meal with total native ambience in a very affordable price.

  Though we arrived already too late in this dining place, we were still ushered in by the accommodating waiters for us to order. We got inside this cottage-like structure giving us a picturesque outdoor view while enjoying each others’ company.

  While looking at the menu, I was enticed to order more delectable seafood dishes, but I was too full to eat another entire course meal. I ended up with their specialty dessert to neutralize the salty, spicy, and sour taste I just had during dinner. We went for their Balinsasayaw dessert since it was mentioned by the waiter that it was their house specialty.

  When the dessert came in, I was very excited to taste it immediately after seeing it neatly and creative placed. The Balinsasayaw Dessert is made of a halved fresh buko (young coconut) filled with several scoops of mango ice cream and sprinkled with roasted kasuy (cashew nuts) halves, which is the one of Palawan's main products. The great marriage of coconut, ice cream and cashew nuts provided punctuations of sweet, crunch and nutty flavor, making it a multi-textural ending to a good dinner, and grounding us to where we were at the moment.

  In the end, we bade goodbye to Sir King with a promise to visit him again in Puerto Princesa in the next coming year. It was indeed a great dessert experience to end the day of island adventure and night of dining escapade.

  Follow more of W.E.L.L. in his SHUTTER SPEED AND LIGHT (photo blog), OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (travel blog),  LITERARY JUNKIE(poetry blog), LIFE AS WE NEVER KNOW IT(life blog).

[animaecibus]

DINING BY THE SEA AT BADJAO SEAFRONT

By: W.E.L.L.

  With a soothing sea breeze, a plentitude of seafood choices and a relaxed atmosphere with live music, what can go wrong in Badjao Seafront Restaurant?

  After our Honda Bay Island escapade, Queenie and I were very hungry after the whole of splashing water, snorkeling, and hopping from island to the other. The scorching and pricking heat of the sun on that day double my craving for a heavy supper.  Since we had been to myriads of restaurants days ago, we decided to try one of the busiest dining place in Puerto Princesa where it is always full of guests throughout the night. Good thing, our travel agent really got us reservations for the night or else we would not be able really dine in this one of a kind floating restaurant in Palawan.

  When we arrived at the place after a 10-minute vehicle ride, we could right away see the tribal sculptures and poles with the big name of the restaurant greeting us with liveliness and enthusiasm. Truly, we could see the total fusion of native and tribal beauty with contemporary art. We had to pass through a wooden bridge to reach the floating restaurant making the experience very exciting as we made every step. The restaurant was established above some mangroves and stilts at its base. When we reached the portals of the dining room, we were instantly ushered by the waiter to our table. We also enjoyed the view in the restaurant because it overlooked a large swamp decorated with colorful fabrics which are used for vintas.

  The waiter then handed in their menu which truly confirms this upscale restaurant’s commitment to fresh seafood. Since I had been very tired to choose anything from the menu presented to us by the waiter, we decided to order a comida (set menu) for the two of us and our expected guest as well. We went for the Soup of the day, grilled fish, sizzling squid, crabs with coco milk, ensaladang talong, platter of rice, and a dessert. We thought it was a lot to consume for the three of us, however our complaining stomach said that maybe it is time to once in awhile gave in to our gluttonous intentions. While we were waiting for our food to be served, we enjoyed talking with each other while Sir King, who is a native from Puerto Princesa. He mentioned about all the beautiful places to expect for our Puerto Princesa Day Tour on the next day.

  When the waiter came back with our order, I was flabbergasted and surprised to see the seafood plate for four, a skyscraping heap hilled with a succulent seafood dishes on it. The clam soup served for us was thick but less salty than I expected it to be. I asked Sir King and he mentioned that natives from Puerto Princesa were not an avid fan of too much saltiness. Then, the sizzling squid and grilled fish came in with its natural surprise. I had to admit that seafood became a staple food for me in my whole trip, but my appetite for it did not die down since I was able to eat more than I can consume. Together with these luxurious dishes is the Crab with grated coconut milk. The ensaladang talong sure did satisfy fully my taste buds during this exquisite dining experience by the sea.

  After emptying our dishes, we rested for awhile enjoying the fantastic night scenes we can see from our table while we felt lightly the coolness of the sea breeze massaging our exhausted body. Indeed, a famous royal guest once (with photos on the restaurant's wall from his visit) was Prince Andrew of the United Kingdom will never visit this place if this was not really worthy for an ultimate night of memorable seafood dining escapade. 

Follow more of W.E.L.L. in his SHUTTER SPEED AND LIGHT (photo blog), OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (travel blog),  LITERARY JUNKIE(poetry blog), LIFE AS WE NEVER KNOW IT(life blog).

[animaecibus]

OF FRENCH AND CREPES AT BISTRO TYMAD

By: W.E.L.L.

  If you have a sweet tooth and you are into for a delicious dessert, then nothing beats the French crepes in Tymad Bistro.

  Unknown to many Cebuanos, Tymad is a small Bistro located along Ma. Luisa road that’s just waiting to be discovered. Just like Guiseppe Pizzeria, it is located far from the main highway so only few people tend to notice this spot. In fact, if my sister and I did not make a wrong turn, we will never be able to end up in this chic French bakery and restaurant in Cebu.

  Actually, we decided to have our dessert in Bistro Tymad which is just located near Guiseppe Pizzeria and Italian Roast where Ivy and Julfa has our pre-valentine supper there. Grabbing the chance to try this chic cafeteria and restaurant, we walked in to have a dessert treat to complete the spontaneous dinner together.

  When I got inside the dining place, I could not help but notice the heavily lit place with clean white walls accentuated with breathtaking pictures of France’s tourist attractions like the famous Eiffel Tower and Moulin Rouge. I tried to research what does the word “tymad” means and I found out that it is a Celtic word for “good house” where crepes originated from in Britanny, France.  I was hungrily looking at the myriad of desserts placed in the shelf.

  Immediately, the waitress handed in the menu and I directly ordered for some crepes since that is what they are known for aside from galletes. Crepes are made from white wheat flour. They are as thin as buckwheat flour but way softer, courtesy of the eggs, milk and butter used to make them. Mostly taken as dessert, crepes are offered in a variety of ways to prepare with fillings such as butter, sugar, honey, chocolate, cream, fresh fruits and preserves. Galletes, on the other hand, are savoury crepes made from buckwheat flour. Originally, it is made of buckwheat flour, water and salt, but Tymad Bistro adds milk, eggs, melted butter, a bit of white flour to improve its texture and taste and, sometimes, honey to improve its color.

  After some time, the waiter came back in with my Tutti Frutti crepe served on our table. I was very excited to nibble some tiny slices but my vanity side insisted to take some pictures with it along with my sister’s order for chocolate crepe. I would like to order some galletes as well, but my stomach was already ringing the gluttony bell saying that I could not take any piece of food in. I admired so much the intricate and meticulous display of mango, banana, and pineapple slices above the crepe with some chocolate fillings on top of it giving it an aesthetic view adding to its delectable taste.

  At the end of the night, I had truly experience eating an original French delicacy in a very chic restaurant giving me an ultimate French dessert adventure worth repeating again in the future. 

Follow more of W.E.L.L. in his SHUTTER SPEED AND LIGHT (photo blog), OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (travel blog),  LITERARY JUNKIE(poetry blog), LIFE AS WE NEVER KNOW IT(life blog).