"Help me find a restaurant that offers huge servings with an affordable price, please?"
I usually get bombarded with this favor; people see me as a food critic. And until now, I can't trace a dash of it. For the record, I am not a critic, and never wished to be one, because I easily get attached to any dish. We'll see how fate goes, though, I think it would be a great idea to invest in such hobby, if that's how people see it. Going back (too much segue happened), well, all I could think of is "Banapple". Yes, you read it right! Overrated? It may seem to be one, but that doesn't void this beaut's appeal.
During the long weekend, my family and I had a fun exchange of where-to-eat and I-am-so-hungry statements inside the car, while exiting St. Luke's at Taguig City. It took a while, but we ended up choosing Banapple at Market-Market, because it's our ultimate favorite! Why Banapple?
Banapple has since landed on my utmost standards (for years) in terms of quality food, affordability and aestheticism (i.e., interior design, perfect choice of colors and playful ambiance); it unconsciously compels you to revel in which I think is a genius marketing strategy. I don't know about you, guys, but I'm pretty sure it is! From the alluringly dolled up staff to the dishes served with a heart, which I meant figuratively, Banapple deserves a golden trophy.
It is also the home of the glorious Chicken Breast Parmigiano. It's cheesier and saucier than your usual spaghetti meal served at home, except that it's served with the most tender chicken breast ever. You can either pair it with rice or 2 slices of pesto bread, depending on your diet needs. Whatever option it may be, it would - for a fact - fill your empty, grumbling tanks. Plus, tiny blocks of cooked carrots for a complete, healthy meal.
Chicken Breast Parmigiano costs Php 200 -- right on cost-effective! The only problem here is when eaten too long, you'd feel slightly nauseated with its saucy-cheesy tandem. But still, a must-try for first-timers!
Aside from the Chicken Breast Parmigiano, I highly recommend the Herb Cheese and Mushroom Pie, as well as, Creamy Chicken Pie. Both valued at only PhP 85 each (without the salad), these pies are absolutely delicious. No words can describe how lavish every piece is. As for the pasta, I'd go for the Baked Creamy Cheese Penne (with 2 slices of pesto bread) for only Php 200! Undoubtedly creamy pasta served in a huge bowl, perfect for the hungry ones.
Their cakes and cheesecakes are indeed freshly baked; they're fairly good, but not too compelling. Prices range from PhP 110-150, and they're pretty cheap since you get a big slice of each!
Blueberry Cheesecake at Php 110
White Chocolate Truffle Berry Cheesecake at PhP 120
Santa's Chipper Chocolate Cookie Cheesecake at PhP 120
Among the 3 cheesecakes posted here, I personally like the Santa's Chipper Chocolate Cookie Cheesecake, because who wouldn't like to have a cookie spread under the pie? It's simply heavenly!
Several minutes later after the feast, we set foot on my aunt's house at Pasig City for my uncle's despedida. I rested for a few hours like a dungeon dragon, tired from overeating and destroying castles. As I was about to sleep, one of my aunts approached me and asked whether or not I'd gladly join them (her, my mother and little sister) shop at the "Night Market". You see, I don't usually go to crowded places because I'm tad claustrophobic. I had a difficult time deciding, but I gave in! And because it's shopping, haha!
The night began setting in and we started riding the tricycle. It was more accessible getting a trike than bringing a car as the place doesn't look safe with cars. I was also not allowed to bring my camera and other gadgets. Pretty scary! I only had one phone with me to take pictures.
Other tips: Never bring a huge amount of money! You should also have your own shopping bag, and I suggest you put your money in there. Avoid wearing jewelries because snatchers are pretty rampant here. Be alert, though, with your pockets as you occasionally get to squeeze yourself in the crowd. Signage hang atop the post to warn you of pickpockets and snatchers. Now that you've read this, you're probably all geared up!
Almost all the clothes sold here are for girls; only a few for guys but still, a great place for low-cost shopping! I was able to get a minion (Despicable Me) shirt for PhpĀ 200, (2) 3/4 sleeve shirt for Php 160, multicolored striped shirt for Php 65, and gray skinny jeans for PhP 450! I will soon make an entry for that.
Clothes may seem too dominating, but never miss out certain stalls selling extraordinary bed sheet and pillow case designs!
Take this Adventure Time bed sheet (double) as an example. You'd rarely see this in the real marketplace. And even if you luckily did, they'd probably sell it triple the amount (or more)! This sheet costs Php 80 only! Too bad I don't own a double bed.
There's Paul Frank, some colorful geometric patterns and cute illustrations for kids! Basically, it's a plethora of bed sheets and pillow cases. You'll have to spend time rummaging sheets and sheets until you spot your choicest design.
And I would never miss out buying this adorable panda pillow case. This melts my heart so bad.
Three hours of nonstop hunting, I'd say we successfully bought all the good stuff! We totally wiped out our wallets. We may have felt sleepy and tired, but it was worth the sacrifice.
Share your experiences with Banapple below! If you would suggest an alternative, that'd be great! Have you been to a night market, too? Share your thoughts below!
