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Manila’s Popular Organic Restaurant, The Wholesome Table Marks 10th Anniversary

It’s a celebration 10 years in the making! The Wholesome Table, Manila’s best-rated and most popular organic restaurant, is thrilled to announce its 10th anniversary. Since opening its doors in July 2014 by mompreneur Bianca Araneta-Elizalde, The Wholesome Table has been dedicated to serving diners and patrons wholesome, locally sourced meals that delight the palate and nourish the body.

The brand’s goal is “to build a healthy food culture where people can begin to make informed decisions about the food they eat and take charge of their health, by educating them about natural, organic food, nutrition, and the environment. After all, it is one of the few things consumers can control in life.” As their brand motto goes, “Eat consciously. Live consciously.”

Bianca Araneta-Elizalde, owner of The Wholesome Table, has always advocated for conscious eating and mindful living.

As Bianca and her team focus on a new vision for The Wholesome Table, many plans are brewing ahead. “I would love to do a twist on the brand, maybe another related concept. My creative juices are flowing. My team inspires me to do something new,” said Bianca. “We’re also working hard on the farm. One of the challenges we’ve always had at The Wholesome Table was suppliers because we were organic. I always wanted a farm that’s going to fuel the restaurant and it’s going to be even more than organic—it’s going to be biodynamic. Everybody will be eating produce and products from the farm, maybe even be able to buy from it.”

The Wholesome Table BGC, their flagship restaurant, opened its doors back in July 2014.

Ten years may seem to have gone by so fast, but anything greatly achieved comes with its own set of challenges. Its present goal is to rebuild and open more branches, hopefully soon, to get back to where they were and even expand further. Currently, their Makati (Salcedo) and BGC branches are up and running, with a new one opening by the fourth quarter of the year.

To commemorate this milestone, The Wholesome Table is holding a month-long celebration this July. Other than the revival of their classics for the special anniversary menu by Executive Chef, Chrioni Castillo, guests and patrons will be given discounts and the chance to win gift certificates, too!

  • The Classics Are Back: A curated selection of our best-selling classics that reflect the brand’s commitment to organic gastronomy and sustainability, exclusively available in our Special Anniversary Menu this July
  • 10% Off Delivery: Get 10% off when you order from GrabFood from 2 PM to 6 PM for the whole month of July.
  • Wholesome Afternoons:Get 10% off when you dine in at their branches from 2 PM to 6 PM from July 16 to July 31, 2024.
  • Sweet Treats: Get a free scoop of ice cream at the BGC branch on July 11, 2024.
  • Celebrate 10 Wholesome Years Social Media Promo: Follow them on Facebook and Instagram @thewholesometable and watch out for their contest mechanics to get a chance to win gift certificates.

What started as a vision of one mom to encourage others that healthy and mindful eating can be both enjoyable and beneficial for them and the farming community has now become a restaurant brand that stands the test of time. As Bianca shared, “I’m so happy that it resonated with the Manila crowd, along with the tourists and foreigners who have patronized our restaurant over and over again. I did not imagine this. I’m looking forward to the next 10 years.”

The Wholesome Table invites everyone in celebrating this special milestone. Come for the food, stay for the community, and leave with a heart full of joy and a belly full of organic goodness.

For more information, visit thewholesometable.com/.
Follow them on Instagram and Facebook @thewholesometable.

 

#thewholesometable #10thanniversary #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Elegant Delights Await: Discover Madeleine High Tea and Bytes at Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila

The newly opened Lanson Place Mall of Asia Manila, a lavish retreat designed to blend the charm of wholesome delights with modern elegance, has been an exciting addition to the hospitality landscape in Manila. Inaugurated last April, the premier destination is set to redefine the standards of comfort and convenience for both business travellers and leisure seekers alike.

Nestled in the heart of Manila, Lanson Place Mall of Asia offers an array of amenities including spaces that are perfect for co-working or relaxation, Bytes and Madeleine High Tea. Both are poised to become the go-to spots for those seeking a unique blend of casual comfort and sophisticated indulgence.

Elegance and Tradition Reimagined

For those looking to indulge in a bit of timeless elegance, the Madeleine High Tea at Lanson Place Mall of Asia Manila offers an exquisite experience. The serene and sophisticated ambience, enhanced plush seating, creates the perfect backdrop for intimate gatherings, business meetings, or simply unwinding in style.

Guests can enjoy a meticulously crafted selection of premium tea from Agusan Del Norte, accompanied by cakes and pastries that blend classic and modern high tea flavours. The venue’s contemporary elegance and delectable treats create the perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon or a special social event. Madeleine High Tea offers an indulgent experience, ensuring guests savour every sip and bite in style.

“Nature’s Apothecary has carefully crafted teas with to create an experience that brings out all of its natural flavours and aromas while perfectly blending with traditional and contemporary high tea elements. “Our goal is to provide a space where guests can relax and connect, whether they’re here for business or leisure,” said Deczle Enriquez, Lanson Place’s Director of Food and Beverage.

A Burst of Flavour in Every Byte

Guests on the go can elevate their work and leisure experience with Bytes at Lanson Place. Found on the 3rd level alongside Focus, the dedicated co-working space at the hotel establishment, Bytes is designed to cater to the different needs of today’s travellers.

Bytes provides a variety of hearty and delicious options that guests can snack on to fuel their productivity while working or to enhance leisure while spending time with friends, colleagues, or future business partners. Each item is crafted with the finest ingredients to ensure every bite is packed with nutrition. Bytes is a place where work meets relaxation, making every moment a revitalizing experience.

“The concept behind the Bytes is to offer our guests a wholesome and satisfying option that does not compromise on taste or quality,” said Deczle Enriquez, Director of Food and Beverage. “Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite between meetings or enjoying a leisurely snack with friends, we want every visit to be a delightful experience.”

Guests are welcome to relish contemporary delights, whether they are looking for a quick healthy bite or spending a relaxing afternoon of indulgence, Lanson Place Mall of Asia Manila has something to offer. Discover a haven where wholesome delights meet modern style. Visit Madeleine High Tea and Bytes at Lanson Place Mall of Asia Manila today.

For more information about Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila’s upcoming events, and other offerings, visit the official website at www.lansonplace.com/mallofasia or follow the official social media pages (Facebook | Instagram).

 

About Lanson Place Personal Hotels & Residences

Lanson Place is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Wing Tai Properties Limited (Wing Tai), a publicly listed company in Hong Kong (HKEx stock code: 369). Wing Tai currently manages 6 properties (in which Wing Tai has equity in two) under the Lanson Place brand, comprising luxury Personal Hotels and Residences in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore, as well as two new properties in Manila (opened in the third quarter of 2023) and Melbourne in (to be opened in 2024).

 

#LansonPlaceMallofAsia #MadeleineHighTea #Bytes #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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This Boracay Italian Restaurant is 21 years old and counting

Imagine sinking your teeth into the cheesy goodness of a crispy yet moist prosciutto pizza slice that’s baked fresh inside a wood-fired brick oven, prepared by an Italian Chef, no less. As you take the bite, strings of melty cheese are pulled away, and you savor the flavors of Italy bursting on your palate. You look at the view of sparkling blue seas from a comfortable second-floor dining balcony and feel the fine, powdery sand between your toes as you head out. No need to imagine for long, this is a reality at ARIA Cucina Italiana.

 Established in 2003 on world-renowned Boracay island, the 21-year-old beachfront restaurant stands the test of time with its authentic cuisine, owned by entrepreneurs Juan Elizalde and Paolo Occhionero, under the leadership of Italian Executive Chef, Salvatore Vincentis. Vincentis’ delectable and authentic creations continue to wow people from all over the globe. No wonder, his standards in the kitchen are strict, especially when it comes to the freshness and quality of ingredients, as some are even flown in straight from Italy so as not to compromise their delicious Italian fare. ARIA’s curated menu is the most comprehensive one on the island, with dishes catering to various tastes and preferences.

ARIA has been providing the best Italian fare in Boracay for 21 years and counting.

Other than their high-quality ingredients, it’s the wood-fired brick oven that makes their pizzas truly delicious. It packs on the flavor, thanks to the intense heat it generates that cooks the pizza quickly, resulting in a crisp crust while locking in moisture and flavor. The wood imparts a distinctive smoky flavor to the pizza you can’t achieve with other cooking methods. It also tends to keep authenticity alive as they have been used for centuries in Italy and other parts of the world for baking bread and cooking pizza. The tradition and craftsmanship associated with these ovens add an element of authenticity to the pizza-making process, which ARIA guests surely love.

Their extensive selection of 26 pizza varieties inspired by various regions in Italy is sure to impress you. For other menu items, you can also indulge in their Fritto di Calamari con Maionese Elle Erbe and Prosciutto e Mango, both considered some of the best appetizers on the island. As for salads, it’s the Cocomero Salad that people quite regularly enjoy.

Pizza large

For pasta lovers, there are the special black fettuccine pasta dishes with the Fettuccine Nere and Al Nero. The Chicken Parmigiana, baked to perfection in their brick oven, is also a crowd favorite. To try something new, our Gnocchi alla Sorrentina AKA potato dumplings are an underrated delight. To quench your thirst, they also offer Italian cocktails with an extensive list of wines that are sure to complement your mouth-watering dishes. To end your meal on a sweet note, treat yourself to ARIA Tris di Dolci or their perfectly creamy ARIA Gelato with a wide selection of 18 flavors, made fresh daily with imported ingredients. With all gelato flavors crafted daily, it’s undeniably the finest ice cream dessert experience in Boracay.

ARIA Cucina Italiana continues to thrive as a top-of-mind Italian beachfront restaurant, despite all the challenges it faced during Boracay’s closures for the island rehabilitation in 2018, and then followed by the pandemic in 2020. Choosing to stay open to keep staff employed, they continued operations and adapted a digital system for online orders and delivery.

With 21 years of authentic Italian food that never compromises on taste and quality, and best-rated reviews on TripAdvisor and Google, be sure to expect many more to come.

 Visit ARIA Cucina Italiana at D’Mall, Station 2, Boracay Island.
Follow them on Instagram @ariacucinaitaliana.
See the menu here.  Order via Viber: +63 998 482 8490

#ARIACucinaItaliana #Boracay #Philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Uma Nota: A Harmonious Blend of Brazilian and Japanese Flavors

After captivating the palates of diners in Hong Kong and Paris, Uma Nota invites guests to embark on a sensory journey that harmoniously blends Brazilian and Japanese culinary traditions.

Located at the heart of Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Uma Nota draws inspiration from the historical migration of the Japanese to São Paulo, weaving a rich tapestry of cultural influences. In each carefully crafted dish, it captures the essence of this journey, seamlessly blending the precision of Japanese culinary artistry with the bold and vibrant flavors synonymous with São Paulo.

Designed by Asmaa Said, founder of  The Odd Duck Studio, it unfolds as a sensory journey through four distinct realms. The Living Room, with its striking ‘Hanging Tree’ installation, seamlessly transitions from upscale dining to a vibrant, seductive evening space. The Bar fosters an intimate social atmosphere, while Tropicalia pays tribute to the 70s Tropicália movement. The Meiji  Room, with its Japanese mural, honors the rich heritage of the mass Japanese migration to São Paulo during the Meiji era.

Main dining

Uma Nota’s menu is a celebration of diverse flavors, seamlessly blending culinary traditions. From the enticing Coxinhas de frango to the elegant Wagyu No Brioche,  each dish harmoniously combines premium and flavorful ingredients. Exclusive selections like the WX Tomahawk MS7 and Japanese A5 Wagyu Striploin elevate the entire experience. Notable offerings also include the Crab Udon, Hotate Tiradito, Unagi Roll, and the robust Robalo Assado showcasing culinary innovation. For vegetarians, the enticing Berinjela offers a unique twist. Cap off the meal with the indulgent Amor Por  Chocolate  and Uma Nota’s signature Ube Cheesecake. Its menu is a culinary journey that transcends boundaries, delivering a symphony of flavors with every dish.

Co-Founders of Uma Nota

Complementing its exquisite culinary offerings is a thoughtfully crafted Drinks Menu, ensuring a perfect pairing for every palate. Dive into the vibrant world of Brazilian mixology with the iconic Caipirinhas, skillfully combining Cachaça Yaguara, sugar, lime, and a choice of fresh fruit. Experience the unique fusion of flavors in the Kyoto Sour, featuring Atago No Matsu sake, grapefruit, green Tabasco, lemon, and agave. Indulge in the Maluco Carioca, a signature Brazilian limeade masterpiece crafted with Cachaça Yaguara. For a truly innovative libation, savor the Uma Nota Cup Noodle, blending Plantation 3 stars, homemade toasted coconut liqueur, pineapple, cucumber, lime, and sesame oil. The Drinks Menu is a testament to creativity, offering a harmonious balance to the culinary symphony on the plate.

Alexis Offe, Co-Founder of Uma Nota, shares his excitement, stating, “Uma Nota has always been a celebration of cultural harmony, a symphony where Brazilian and Japanese influences dance together. Our journey into Manila is more than just an expansion; it’s an immersion into the rich tapestry of flavors and experiences unique to this vibrant city.”

He adds that the difference with Hong Kong, Manila will be elevating the experience, big events will become a regular part of the program, promising a dynamic atmosphere that goes beyond the ordinary. Uma Nota Manila is not just a venue; it’s a destination for those seeking a thrilling blend of entertainment, design, and immersive experiences.

Carnaval show

Uma Nota’s Executive Chef Gustavo Vargas has developed a menu that caters to every palate, whether you like it raw, from the wok, grilled or baked.

On his menu, Executive Chef Gustavo Vargas adds, “We’ve been hard at work collaborating with Kyle Ureta, our Manila Head Chef to create dishes that bring together the bold flavors of Brazilian and Japanese cuisine while catering specifically to the local palate. In a city known for its diverse food scene, we’re confident that our menu, crafted in harmony with local influences, will offer a delicious and unique dining experience.”

For more information, visit – www.uma-nota.com.ph.

#UmaNota #BrazilianJapaneseCuisine #Manila #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Okada Manila Reopens a More Expansive Medley Buffet 

Medley Buffet, Okada Manila’s renowned signature buffet restaurant, recently reopened its doors at its original location on the Upper Ground Floor of the Pearl Wing, offering an even more exciting dining experience.

The restaurant has undergone a magnificent transformation, now boasting a more expansive space and grander culinary offerings. Beyond the spacious dining area, Medley now features 4 private dining rooms that can accommodate groups of various sizes from 8 to 12 persons, as well as 2 rooms that are good for 18 diners each or a total of 36 if combined — a perfect venue for family celebrations or an intimate corporate gathering. The new set-up is adorned with warm lighting from large floral-shaped chandeliers and elegant accents, harmonizing with the restaurant’s green and brown color palette.

A centerpiece of the newly reopened Medley is the Cheese Room, which showcases a well-curated selection of artisanal cheeses sourced from around the world. Aside from cheeses, there is an array of cold cut choices, as well as various nuts, fruits, and jams.

Dining at Medley is a gastronomic journey, featuring a wide range of local and international cuisines, and offering a world of flavors including classic dishes from Korea, Japan, China, and India. Guests will be spoilt for choices with a variety of diverse offerings from each culinary landmark.  Additionally, there is also a seafood station where chefs can cook guests’ selections based on their preferences; a pho and laksa section; meat carving and roasting stations; and a dessert station with a spread of delectable cakes, local delicacies, fruits, and ice cream.  The buffet comes with free-flowing fruit juices, soda, beer, and wine, as well as post-meal coffee and tea. For an indulgent experience, unlimited lobsters are available on weekends as part of the  bubbly lunch and dinner buffet.

For  inquiries and reservations, please send an email to RestaurantReservation@okadamanila.com or call 0917 813 6523.

About Okada Manila

Established in December 2016, Okada Manila is the biggest  integrated resort in the Philippines to date and touted as “Manila’s Grand Icon.” The resort is renowned for its world-class facilities and stellar service, combining the best of Japanese hospitality with the warmth of Filipino culture. For four consecutive years, Okada Manila has been honored with the coveted Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Award, underscoring its exceptional service.

Spanning an impressive expanse, Okada Manila has 993 luxurious rooms and the country’s largest gaming floor, featuring over 3,000 electronic gaming machines. Providing an integrated experience, guests can shop at the Retail Boulevard, dine at the various outlets under The Restaurants at Okada Manila, go for a relaxing treatment at Forbes 5-star rated The Retreat Spa, watch The Fountain show – one of the world’s most spectacular multicolor dancing water fountains, and see Cove Manila, Southeast Asia’s biggest indoor beach club.    All these facets converge to solidify Okada Manila’s status as one of the Philippines’ premier destinations.

#MedleyBuffet #OkadaManila #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Manifesto: Where the Beautiful Rise and Converge

Everything that reminds us of the life that was becomes a beacon of hope. As the world emerges from a difficult few years, it’s nice to discover a place for people to rise above the mundane and connect with like-minded individuals.

Manifesto, a modern café, and restaurant located on Valero Street in the heart of Makati’s Central Business District, understood the assignment and nailed it right on the head. They did not only know what people wanted, they knew what they needed – a respite from the monotony of daily life and the chance to enjoy great food in the company of friends and strangers.

Serving what is probably one of the busiest and chicest areas of Makati, Manifesto has an enviable menu that features the best comfort foods from l’Orient et l’Occident. All-time Filipino favorites like beef tapa, spiced bangus, and longganisa are available to those who crave a hearty Pinoy breakfast, while an assortment of mouthwatering kebabs like chicken, beef, and lamb are available to those who crave the flavors of the Middle East.

At the heart of Manifesto is their carefully crafted coffee menu, featuring 17 unique and expertly brewed drinks, including traditional Italian classics.  One sip of their doppio could instantly transport you to a Roman café, as you sit amidst elderly peanut-eating gentlemen wearing berets and plaid trousers held up by suspenders. For the faint of heart, they also serve mochaccinos, macchiatos, and cappuccinos.

Fresh fruit juices and shakes are also available for patrons who want to beat the tropical heat. And for days and nights when one needs to wind down or “can’t even,” try their strawberry daiquiri or mojito, or order a bottle or two of Stella Artois or Peroni.

Manifesto is a haven for every soul, lost or found. It is a place where they can let their hair down and just be. Visit today and experience a true renaissance in dining.

For inquiries and reservations, call 0915 821 6852.

 

#Manifesto #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Taiwan Tour: Getting Closer To Nature

The atmosphere of quiet lushness from the mountain made our stay a whole new experience in getting closer to nature.

 

Monster Village during the day

Traveling through this side of Taiwan on our second day, makes you appreciate the beauty of the countryside.  In this installment, I will take you to Nantou County, where you can take a glimpse of magnificent views of the outdoors and cold weather at Monster Village and Sun-Link-Sea Forest and Nature Resort.

Photo-op of the group at Monster Village.

Monster Village is one of the most popular attractions in Nantou County. You will like it here because of its captivating scenery and cold weather, which is comparable to our very own Tagaytay City. The place is situated 1,100 meters above sea level – the reason for its cool climate – and you can almost see the mountains and the clouds covering the mountain top. There are all kinds of strange monster statues and the villagers are dressed in Japanese style.

It’s not just a tourist attraction, but a one-stop shop for the guests. Whenever you get hungry, you can choose from one of the restaurants here which served best-selling Taiwan and Chinese dishes.

Stinging Nettle or Biting Cat Bread @ Monster Village. Photo: Me-An Clemente

Interestingly, there’s a particular bread that caught our attention during our visit – the Stinging Nettle bread also known as “Biting Cat” in Chinese. The itchy part is the leaf and locals made it into bread but the inside is very savory and soft, it contains some cheese or some kind of meat as filling. But the highlight of the bread is the stinging nettle leaf on top of the bread.

Our group indulged in the set menu for lunch at Monster Village Theme restaurant. The food arrived in big servings. It was truly a mouthful of dishes served before our very eyes. We enjoyed the food, the company, and the ambiance.

You can also find some souvenir shops for your trip mementos. and a hotel within the village for long-staying guests.

The writer at the Flower Center

 

We also visited Sun-Link-Sea Forest and Nature Resort. The place has an annual average temperature of about 20 degrees Celcius and is 1600 meters above sea level. The climate is perfect like Baguio City. Here, you can enjoy a different side of Taiwan, far from the city.

You won’t feel perspired and get tired while walking; most of all, you get to enjoy being surrounded by nature. You will enjoy the atmosphere near the waterfalls, the environment surrounded by trees, and a Flower Center, which exhibited some 30 flower species, such as peony, color cabbage, hydrangea, tulip, and Taiwan cherry, fuchsia, etc.

Our accommodation at Sun-Link-Sea Hotel, an elegant building characterized by modern and neo-classical architecture, provided a total relaxation. The atmosphere of quiet lushness from the mountain made our stay a whole new experience in getting closer to nature.

#Taiwantour #TaiwanTourismBureau #destination #Asia #tourism #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

(Part 2 of a 6-part feature article)

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Get a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine at The Bellevue Manila

The locally-owned 5-star hotel – The Bellevue Manila continues on its mission to cater to a wide variety of palates, now with the welcoming of the beloved Hanakazu Japanese Restaurant as its new home.

Hanakazu first made its name in 2005 as an intimate restaurant located at the heart of BF Homes, Parañaque. Chef Hiroaki Otsuka and his wife Lorna launched Hanakazu intending to give customers a fresh take on Japanese cuisine while maintaining its authenticity.

“We are excited to dive into this new chapter for Hanakazu with The Bellevue Manila,” says Hanakazu Owner, Lorna Otsuka. “We hope to present dishes that are familiar to Filipino tastes, but distinctly in the Hanakazu way.”

Hanakazu gets its name from the name of Chef Otsuka’s daughters Hana and Kazu, reflecting the motivation for the passion, perfection, and customer satisfaction the Otsukas uphold.

“It is an honor for The Bellevue Manila to welcome Hanakazu to its doors. Chef Otsuka’s unique approach to Japanese cuisine is sure to be a favorite among our guests,” shares Patrick Chan, Managing Director of The Bellevue Manila, of the partnership with Hanakazu.

Guests are also invited to visit The Bellevue’s other food and beverage concepts: Phoenix Court for authentic Chinese cuisine; Cafe D’ Asie for a buffet of international spread, Pastry Corner for specialty bread, cakes, and other pastries and goodies; and Vue Bar for drinks and live music.

 

Featured photo from left to right: Mr. Patrick Chan, The Bellevue Manila Managing Director, Mr. Johnny Chan, The Bellevue Hotels & Resorts Chairman, Ms. Lorna Otsuka, and Mr. Sachio Otsuka, Hanakazu Owners

#TheBellevueManila #Hanakazu #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Sentro Botanikos: An eco-haven to nourish your soul and appetite

A place where you can go to relax, recharge, and enjoy organic farm-made meals, and more.

Nourish your appetite with heart-warming, healthy food and your soul with the captivating environment — a sure way to get over the work-week stress.

The invigorating and lush surroundings of Sentro Botanikos.

It was one weekend when my family was introduced to this fledgling eco-farm and café in Alfonso, Cavite. It’s near to my in-law’s ArtFarm property also located in Alfonso.

The urged to eat good food for dinner had led us to Sentro Botanikos. It was getting dark and we didn’t find it right away the location. The signage was unnoticeable and we almost missed the gate leading to the homey restaurant. We even thought that the restaurant was closed. Just the same, we proceeded. As we alighted from the car, we were greeted with a tender breeze from the cold night air that filled the entire farm.

With my family and in-laws.

As my eyes wander, I found the facilities austere yet very relaxing, it makes you breathe with its wide-open spaces and surrounded by nature. The surprise is in the food they offer – only farm-based meals and farm-made products. Its principles are centered around community, sustainability, vegetarian and environmentally-friendly choices. They also started to produce farm-made food items for everyone to enjoy.

Appetizing Adobo ni Lola.
Delicious Palabok with seaweeds on top.

Our food choices for dinner included palabok, adobo ni lola, sisig, bulalo, and turon ala mode. All the dishes were delicious! But we were greatly surprised with bulalo, on how they made it so flavorful! Bulalo is normally made with beef shanks, and gives you a heavy feeling after a meal. I really did not know that a vegetarian bulalo can be so tasting and healthy! Most times, they said, they use a wheat/soy fillet as a replacement to “meat.”

And they also shared some farm-made products that make their dishes appetizing, like the vegan seasoning. I bought one bottle which will last for a month and plant-based M’chon sauce similar to an all-around sauce under the Solera Botanikos label.

Delectable Turon Ala Mode.

With its plant-based meals, Sentro Botanikos has been added to our list of go-to-restaurants when in Alfonso, Cavite. We are delighted to have discovered this new place, most especially beneficial to my hubby, who is a vegetarian for 10 years now. We are always on the lookout for similar establishments offering fresh, healthy, delicious, and vegan meals.

I am not a hardcore vegan, but because of my hubby’s influence, my daughter and I have learned to embrace a vegetarian lifestyle on a 50-50 ratio (meaning: we are semi-vegetarian and forgo pork, but still consuming chicken, beef, fish, and egg). When at home, we only cooked plant-based meals, and when we eat outside, that’s the only time that my daughter and I eat meat dishes.

It has been said that following a plant-based diet is healthy for our bodies and the environment. A vegan diet can be one of the healthiest ways to live. Plant-based diets should contain plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Because vegan diets often rely heavily on these healthy staples, they tend to be higher in vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and fiber. Healthy vegan diets are abundant with vitamins B1, C, and E, folic acid, magnesium, and iron while also being low in cholesterol and saturated fats.

Homey-feel inside the restaurant cafe.

No wonder, every year more and more people are making the decision to go vegan, and for good reason! A big lifestyle change is easier to sustain if you wholeheartedly believe in your decision.

Good thing, more and more vegan restaurants are opening and catering to the growing health-conscious Filipinos.

Sentro Botanikos is located at 217 Buck Estate Road, Brgy. Buck Estate Alfonso, Cavite 4123. It is open from 12:00 noon until 9:00 p.m.

Featured photo: Flavorful Vegan Bulalo

#sentrobotanikos #wideopenspaces #farmmade #organicPh #AlfonsoCavite

 

 

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Are you craving for Hainanese chicken rice?

Here are our food discoveries on this popular dish here and abroad.

In terms of chicken dishes, one of the most widely known is Hainanese chicken rice. What makes this dish so special is its delectable taste – the poached chicken meat and seasoned rice. No wonder travelers from around the world have all the rage for this iconic dish.

  • Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice

If you’re planning a trip to Singapore, post-pandemic world, make it part of your itinerary to experience Singaporean cuisine. This small, but progressive and important island nation located just south of Malaysia not only offers modern tourist attractions, and impressive skyscrapers, but is also famous for Hainanese chicken rice, one of the national dishes of Singapore. It is being widely available in most food courts and hawker centers around the country.

“Variants of the dish are also seen throughout Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia, where it remains a culinary staple,” according to an online source.

Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice stall. Personal photo during our previous trip to Singapore.

Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice is probably Singapore’s most famous chicken rice stall located at Maxwell Food Centre. As seen from our last visit in past years, it had more tourists than locals queuing up for a plate of this popular dish. You just need to be patient, and in no time, it will be your turn to order.

It was worth the visit because the dish was really delicious – both the chicken meat and the rice were cooked to perfection. Per order of the dish was like Php250.00 – Ph350.00 in our local currency.

Even the late Anthony Bourdain said that the chicken rice was so fragrant and delicious that it could be eaten on its own.

  • Homeboy Hainanese

The pandemic may have restricted our movement, and planning a trip to Singapore may not be ideal at the moment. But this won’t stop us from tasting this dish in Manila, and at the comforts of our home.

An interesting discovery is Homeboy Hainanese, which offers and delivers Hainanese chicken rice. Though, still new in the food business, it’s getting a significant following for its quality and healthier take on the famous dish.

The sauces are made from scratch and are very flavorful – soy sauce, ginger, and chili. Courtesy: Homeboy Hainanese

It was a delight to have discovered it through a lady client. The delivery came just in time for lunch and was freshly packed. The food pack consisted of chicken fillet which was very tender; rice (an Oh Crop Adlai rice best for dieters as well); and the sauces are made from scratch and are very flavorful – soy sauce, ginger, and chili.

To fully enjoy the dish, I dabbed all three sauces in one bite of chicken meat and rice. I was very satisfied with how the dish was cooked. Indeed, it was a tummy-filling Hainanese experience! You need not go to Singapore to try it. If you want your order to be consumed later, you can store it in the refrigerator, then, reheat it in the microwave at 600w for 30 seconds.

For more information, visit: https://www.facebook.com/homeboyhainanese

A mouth-watering dish and satisfying dining experience can definitely fulfill any food cravings.

Featured photo: Homeboy Hainanese

#foodtravel #hainanesechickenrice #homeboyhainanese #tiantianhainanesechickenrice #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph