Allow me to go out on a limb and dare use the term “best”- besides, how often have I ever used thisto describe a burger before? Only one other time and it was for this episode.
I don’t like throwing the word best around because we tend to use it so lightly nowadays but this time, I truly believe that I have found the one when it comes to burgers and let me tell you why:
Its price. At P75.00 for a regular burger and P90.00 for their signature cheeseburgers heavily smeared with their special cheese dip, you’d first take a look at it and think that 1 burger might not be enough- WRONG.
Because of it’s tightly packed meat and generous toppings, one burger is actually enough. It also goes well with a bottle of soda for P15.00.
The flavor. At D&M Cafe, they use the finest quality ingredients, making sure that this brings out the best taste in their recipes. From the fresh, soft buns; tender & flavorful meat and especially their special cheese sauce that you can also order separately as a dip.
The taste. While some burger joints like to garnish their burgers with overbearing sauces, I find my favorite aspect of this cheese burger is that I still know what I’m eating, I can feel the extra kick & flavor they’ve added to the dish and everything works so well together, creating a wonderful harmony in my mouth. It’s not a combination of a million things that leaves you wondering what you’re eating- it is simply a burger and that is, after all, what I came for.
The effect. I walked into D&M Cafe thinking with my stomach and not my head. I had this grand illusion that I was going to eat everything on the menu and go back on my merry way- WRONG AGAIN. While a full stomach is good, it was the effect of such good food that impressed me the most. You see, I blog about food round the clock almost and so, it’s become hard to come by a dish/ dishes that blow me away, but here I am, not only blown but completely swept away by the food & the charm that D&M Cafe has to offer.
Admittedly, this cafe is still in it’s early stages of life having just opened about a month or so ago. It is currently run by the American & Filipina chef couple who recently moved to the Philippines to share their love of food & pastries with us Cebuanos.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, make sure to stock up on their cookies & brownies because they are absolutely bomb especially the fudge brownie and the butter scotch which are my faves!
Other must tries are the rice toppings that sell for P65.00 (Chicken Teriyaki) & P75.00 (Pork Stroganoff & Sausage Gravy).
Happy anniversary to the Cebu Fashion Bloggers whose love for fashion, food, travel, lifestyle and everything else in between; has filled the internet over the past 9 years!
Thank you so much to Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa for creating and providing us with the wonderful backdrop of our event, for filling our stomachs with sumptous food and our souls with the happiest of memories.
As GM René D. Egle mentioned during his welcome speech, “it is only so often that groups last THIS long- so celebrate!” And we sure did!
We would also like to thank:
Executive Chef Roshan Fernando & team
Banquet Manager Neldon Rivera & team
Ms. Cassandra Cuevas
Ms. Jacque Bulawan
Ms. Feirlyn Decasa
For a city/ country with a large population of Chinese residents (myself included), there seems to be a lack of Chinese restaurants that offers customers with quicker and alternative dining options. While the family style, Lazy Susan, way of dining will always be a part of our culture, it often limits solo Chinese cuisine craving enthusiasts simply because of the lack of options.
Thankfully, late night cravings, dinner/ group dates, solo meals or even large groups looking for a change of scenery can now get their Chinese fix thanks to Master Po.
Mango Roll- P 80.00, Coffee Jelly & Cream- P 50.00 & Almond Jelly & Black Jelly – 50.00
This semi- fast food chain is definitely something I can’t wait to sink my teeth into again as I am eager to try out their Rice Pots so I can tell you all about it! As of writing, I’ve already contracted my family, Paolo and several friends to go back with me because… with their huge menu, one visit is obviously never going to be enough.
But just in case you’d take my word for it, my favorites so far are: the beef hoffan, baked seafood and of course, the Yang Chow fried rice.
Operating Hours:
Plaza Nouvelle- 10:30 AM- 10:00 PM
IT Park- 11:00 AM- 2:00 PM & 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM)
Seating Capacity
Plaza Nouvelle- 80 pax (with 2nd floor available for bookings, exclusively for 60 pax)
IT Park – 60 pax
Follow Master Po on Facebook & Instagram for more info, bookings & reservations!
Pancake House is a household name when it comes to hearty breakfast themed food that anyone can enjoy at any time of the day.
Having been around since 1974, Pancake House has an array of Filipino- American favorites not only limited to pancakes, as the name suggests, but also other filling dishes.
In my first ever food crawl, I, along with some foodie friends, were able to experience the best of the best that Pancake House and their sister companies have to offer. It was a morning filled with laughs, stuffed bellies and even OOTD opportunities which I took full advantage of! Enjoy the video:
If you’re a little low on mobile data or if your internet is a little slow for comfort, don’t worry, these photos will suffice (although, nothing beats the real thing!).
There are currently 4 branches located in Cebu- Ayala, BTC, SM Seaside and at the Oakridge so if you ever get hungry in between, you know where to go!
Spaghetti With Meat Sauce with Garlic Bread (Reg) P199.00 / (Large) P307.00 A childhood favorite you always go back to, moms spaghetti with meat sauce
Choco Nut Pancake P150.00 Choc nut pieces in mini pancakes, whipped cream spread in between the pancakes and drizzled with caramel sauce and topped with a whole choc nut.
Special Salisbury Steak P267.00 Premium 1/3 lb salisbury steak topped with creamy mushroom gravy and bacon bits
Pan Chicken With Gravy (2pcs) P210.00/ (3pcspc) 275.00 Our popular and well-loved crispy and succulent chicken served with steamed rice and flavorful homemade gravy
Classic Pancake P150.00 / P185.00 The homey goodness of plain golden pancakes served with whipped butter
Golden Brown Waffle P 185.00 Classic and crispy delicious golden brown waffle
Best Taco in Town P120.00 Colorful South of the Border Mexican treat! Ground beef, lettuce, tomato, onion and cheese in crispy taco shell
And if breakfast isn’t really your thing, Terriyaki Boy & Sizzlin’ Steak House are always good alternatives to settle your never ending hunger pangs. With culinary choices of Japanese specialties or sizzling, hot meat served fresh at your table- the point is, you can never really go wrong with a good meal and that’s definitely what these establishments have to offer.
Everyone’s favorite chicken wings place has finally built a new home, one easier to access at that! Gibbs’ Hot Wings, a homegrown business that has steadily been growing since they first opened in 2014 (in their house, at that!), is now moving on to their second branch (technically their third but their home branch has been turned into their commissary).
Within an easier reach from the metro, snugly situated at the Central Bloc of the IT Park, Gibbs’ Hot Wings’ newest branch has so much to offer their eager patrons such as new menu items, an awesome new ambience, 24 hour operating times with the same great taste that we all know and love!
They’ve also recently partnered up with Honestbee, making it easier to get our hands on their awesome dishes even in the comforts of their own homes.
check out their new look:
Their newest offering: level 6 wings!
Sausage Mac & cheese
new item: nachos
I also want to take this moment to brag. :p My business, H&S Clothing, also co- designed and produced their uniforms for not only their newest branch but their existing branches , as well. I am so so proud!!
Find out more about Gibbs’ in the following links:
If you’re a child of the 90’s then you probably know the value of a good drink whether it be neat, on the rocks, mixed or inside a nice cold bottle after a long day of work. And don’t get me wrong or anything, but I personally prefer my night caps or night outs for that matter, far away from anyone below 21 or from someone who thought Hannah Montana was a real rock star.
I had stopped checking out the local bar scenes because everywhere seemed too posh or too techno (is that even what that music is?) when all I really wanted was a place where I could drink my Red Horse, while listening to music I actually liked, around people I voluntarily choose to see after working hours. For a while it was in the pleasures of our own home but let’s be honest, sometimes it feels kind of good to get out of the house and eventually run into some good old friends- enter The Tavern.
Located on the 2nd floor of Queensland Manor, The Tavern is home to 90’s rock music or just good music in general. Aside from the killer ambiance, they also serve food and drinks at extremely affordable prices and if you’re looking for a familiar face, you are sure to run into someone there!
Billiard tables, free to play!
At a glance at their menu, their prices are definitely enough to get me intrigued. Dinner with friends and then “a couple of drinks” after seems highly possible here, including pica- picas to feast on while catching up with good company.
Unfortunately, I was not able to sample their food but if you ever do, feel free to leave a comment below!
BYOG. Bring Your Own Greens. lol
I downed a couple of Amaretto sours which has been my go to drink whenever I’m feeling a little girlier than usual. I would totally recommend it to anyone who gets intimidated by mixed drinks especially the one’s at The Tavern!
The Tavern can also be booked for private events and functions. For table reservations, inquiries and etc. Feel free to contact (032) 344 2717
For more updates, make sure to follow them on Facebook!
All the way from Manila, Banapple Pies & Cheesecakes opens their doors and shares their all-time favorite recipes with hungry Cebuano’s. Best known and loved for their all day breakfast meals, pies and desserts; their other offerings such as entrees like lasagna roll ups & hickory smoked barbecued country ribs, are surely not to be missed either!
Whether you’re there for a delightful brunch with friends, a quiet meeting over coffee, a hearty meal with a loved one of even dessert to cap off the night; you are sure to find something you’ll love at Banapple. I’ve only been a handful of times but I am obsessed with the banofee pie, house salad and cheese & mushroom pie. On the other hand, Paolo, who has been a fan of this establishment since his college days in Manila, is eager to be reunited with his all time favorites such as the awesome blueberry pancakes, chicken parmigiano & pork tocino.
And so, it is with pleasure that I present to you Banapple’s menu offerings here in Cebu:
(Clockwise: Sirloin garlic beef tapa, lasagna roll up, hickory smoked barbecued country ribs, chicken sandwich & banapple’s house salad (center))
SALADS
Super Caesar Salad – 190
Banapple’s House Salad – 190
Banapple Pies & Cheesecakes is located at Cebu IT Park at the Garden Row across The Walk and at the at the 3rd floor of Ayala Center Cebu (in between Rai-Rai Ken & Dessert Factory) (read more here).
For every minimum purchase of P400.00 between February 16- March 31, 2018, diners will enjoy a Grandma’s corn chowder!
It’s been around 2 months since I came back from my Coron trip and though my tan has faded, the memories of our wonderful adventure still resonate fondly in my head. Today in this post, I’ll try my best to be a decent blogger and give ya’ll the lowdown of everything you need to know about getting to Coron, what to do while you’re there and my personal takes on everything. ENJOY! (AND SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE BEFORE I GET DEMONITIZED!)
How To Get There:
Let’s be honest, we’re all about that promo fair life. Having said that, we probably booked our December flight somewhere between July- September giving us enough time to plot our leaves, save, research & book our accommodations and packages. Back and forth tickets at the time cost a good P3,627.00. If you’re flying from Cebu like us, we took a propeller Philippine Airlines plane to Busuanga which is an 1 hour and 7 minutes away from the Coron town proper. Our transportation was done via our hotel accommodations, which I’ll talk about in a little bit, where we had to pay P150.00/ person without any extra charges for luggage, etc.
FLIGHT DETAILS
Busuanga to Coron map
WHERE TO STAY:
I’m going to be honest with you- I didn’t love our hotel of choice but I got it at a decent price at P 9,000.00 for 4 nights for 2 people making it around P 2,250.00/ night (including taxes). I bet you’re wondering why I don’t speak so highly of it (Kawayanan Heights Inn) and I’ll tell you why.
Other than the fact that it was a walking distance from the town proper, it was on top on a hill (literally seconds away from Mt. Tapyas) which made it a tad difficult to get tricycle drivers to agree to dropping us off during the evenings which left us having to walk uphill on most nights. Aside from this, because of its close proximity to Mt. Tapyas, a popular tourist destination, our pick up area was always jam packed which left us getting dropped off ahead because of the congestion. This is so fucking annoying especially after having spent the entire day walking and swimming and you just want to get from point A to B.
Other than this, the hotel promises of internet but since our Standard Room was located in the basement floor and without a router in sight, internet was a moot point. This frustrated me because 1. I paid for internet and 2. I need internet to work.
Lastly, there was always some sort of wildlife lurking around our room. Mosquito’s were constant, some weird bug, lizards and cockroaches as well. So honestly, if I could go back in time, I would not book there again.
But you know, if you’re on a budget and you don’t mind the sleepless nights from their staff who were by the way, celebrating their Christmas party ’til 5 in the morning and constantly screaming in the hallways, slamming doors and screaming drunk in the halls then go ahead.
I’m still mad about it.
As a resolution to my rant, here are other, more decent cohabitation options for you to consider: Coron West Town Coron Eco Lodge
WHAT TO DO:
To paint you a picture, Coron is a small town by the tip of Palawan that is surrounded by lots of beautiful islands, lagoons, mountains and etc. In order to get to these islands you can either travel by bangka or speedboats which are offered by a dime a dozen traveling agencies around the island. After much research on our end, we settled with JY Travel & Tours as they seemed to offer the best packages and rates which I am sharing with you below.
Here was our itinerary and some points from my end:
Day 1 (ARRIVAL)
Travel from Busuanga to Coron – Lunch at Kawayanan Grill – Coron Town Proper Tour – Climbed Mt. Tapyas – Dinner at Island Boy Grill
Our first day was more on settling in, stocking up on supplies and basically getting friendly with the locals. We explored most of the town by foot and took quick stops inside convenience stores, coffee and ice cream shops whilst taking notes of places and restaurants we would want to visit while we were there.
During the mid afternoon, we decided to tick climbing Mt. Tapyas off our list and took and afternoon hike which last about 2- 3 hours for us to climb. It probably takes less than that considering it’s only 700+ steps but we were so out of shape and it was so painful to climb. But believe me, if you catch the sunset, it is soo worth the climb!
Day 2 (CALAUIT SAFARI TOUR)
Calauit Island is a 3,700 hectare island game reserve and wildlife sanctuary that is home to mainly giraffes, mice deer, zebras and other animals who are mostly free range. It’s roughly a 2 hour road trip from Coron town proper plus a 15 minute boat ride from the dock to the island and though it sounds long, if you’re into animals and you especially appreciate that they’re free range AND you get the pet and feed them then a long road trip really feels like nothing.
There aren’t a lot of food options along the area, other than what is provided by your tour group, so I suggest to pack up on water and light snacks if you want to survive this trip. And also, insect repellent.
The Calauit Island Safari tour is 2-3 hours long which is followed by lunch and some island hopping, waterfalls chasing and visiting of local churches. As fate would have it, we were only able to visit Ocam- Ocam island, Concepcion Falls and Malbato church instead of Pamalican island and the Busuanga town proper.
I’m just going to be very real with you- I did not care for the falls and I was asleep for the church visit but Ocam- Ocam beach was pretty but you wouldn’t want to stay too long as there’s no food available in the area.
Day 3 (ISLAND ESCAPADE TOUR C2)
As mentioned on the vlog, day 3 was the official start of bikini day as we headed to Malcapuya island, Banana island and Bulong Dos. These islands are great for snorkeling and relaxing but since they take about an hour to get to, you’re not really allowed on the island for too long which eventually leaves you feeling a little cut short. Ultimately, you’re just jumping from island to island (it is an island hopping trip, after all) and taking whiffs of the sand before having to jump to the next stop.
Could I have had things my way, I would’ve wanted to stay at Banana island and/ or Bulong Dos a lot longer.
During the evening, we took a quick trip via tricycle (P100.00- P150.00 back and forth) to Maiquinit Hot Springs to relax in the naturally warm and soothing waters whilst being surrounded by lots of locals and tourists. Entrance was P200.00 and there are lots of cottages for you to leave your belongings at.
Day 4 (CORON ISLAND ULTIMATE TOUR)
Our last day of island hopping ended with a bang. We went to 7 different tourist spots and lemme tell you, they did not disappoint. To be honest, I was a bit underwhelmed with our previous tour as honestly, after a while, islands are just islands and no matter where the boat takes you, you ultimately end up in the same water. Our ultimate Island tour saved my island hopping experience as it didn’t take too long to get to these destinations and each one was such an amazing adventure.
Disclaimer: I might have mixed up some islands but I’m trying to remember as much as possible. Our guide did not follow the islands in order so now I have to rely on memory and research.
Siete Picados
Siete Picados or the 7 sins is a cluster of limestone islets which you basically just pass through. It’s really beautiful to look at is great for drone shots and is hard AF to shoot. lol
Kayangan Lake
Kayangan lake was our last stop for the tour and required lots of climbing. Just when we thought that we were done climbing for the trip (Mt. Tapyas), we simply couldn’t pass up the opportunity to swim in a lake and get a great aerial view of the Siete Picados. Fun fact: Professional free divers died in the area. Ok, it’s not a fun fact but it teaches you na di lagi mag pinamay.
Twin Lagoon
The Twin Lagoons were definitely my favorites because 1. getting there is like entering a whole new world, 2. you go under rock formations to get there and 3. it was just so freaking pretty to look at. It was a completely different experience as compared to the beaches we were almost getting used to.
You have to wear life vests at all times though and try to keep afloat but I’m telling you, it’s completely worth it!
Skeleton Wreck
In case you didn’t know, Coron is also popularly known for their presence of WWII Japanese ships wrecks scattered around the area. Although it’s a lot better experience through scuba diving, we were able to catch a glimpse of 1 wreck at the Skeleton Wreck. It’s a lot different when you’re looking at it from above but it was fun trying to free dive as far as you could to get a better glimpse of whatever was down there.
Las Islas de Coral & Sunset Beach
If you’re into snorkeling, you will really enjoy swimming from one point to another at Sunset beach. They have such a rich sea life with lots of thriving corals and underwater life. You can choose to swim from point a to b or have your guide drag you. If you enjoy just floating around and taking your time, I suggest jumping in the water and going at your own pace.
Las Islas de Coral was mostly just sand and sea with rocks you can climb on and a this branch I attempted to walk on. More of a filler island if you ask me.
During the evening on our last day, we decided to go Firefly & Plankton Watching which was offered to us by the same tour group for P900.00, including dinner. This activity allows you to witness fireflies residing in mangroves and to paddle in open seas in complete darkness to enjoy the plankton. I loved it so much and though I don’t have any photos or videos of it as proof, there is some comfort i knowing that I got to experience is completely technology free. It’s truly something you need to experience on your own. P.s. The food was not enough for us. -_(0_0)_-
Day 5 (Pasalubong shopping)
Dropped by L. ESCARDA’S Coron Harvest Brittle Cashewto check out their famed cashews and a local tourist shop for shirts and trinkets before heading home. Transportation was provided by our hotel, as well.
PLACES TO EAT/ DRINK IN CORON:
Since most tours and packages already include breakfast and lunch, dinners were always such an adventure for us. Although we weren’t really able to go to each one, here is a quick list of places you might want to check while you’re there. I’ve marked the names of the restos in red for the ones we were actually able to go to. Yer welcome.
KAWAYANAN GRILL
Famous among tricycle drivers and since I am still pissed at K Heights, I believe each tricycle driver who sends over people gets a cut. But having said that, the food was not bad.
ISLAND BOY GRILL
Island Boy Grill was one of the most worth it meals we had on our trip. A stick of barbecue only cost P 70.00 and it was more than enough. The seafood was fresh, the prices were good and the ambiance was very island-y.
ALTROVE’S
Altrove’s was a must go to on our itinerary as everyone who we asked and watch on the online world insisted that we went there. Popular for their selection of Italian food, expect a waiting list but 5:00 and 9:00 pm are great times to go to if you want to skip the lines.
ALA- E!
SKY RESTAURANT (Japanese food)
NoName Bar
Hang Over Bar & Grill
Lobster King
So that’s basically all I’ve got for this post. Is there anything you can add to this?
Please show me some love, I spent my entire Monday writing this. lol.
Bai is one of Cebu’s newest luxe hotels that offers guests with the perfect view of the city and the harbor while also providing them with a visual adventure with their beautiful industrial and minimalist interiors. Although they are very new in the industry, their offerings and services seem to be quite polished and seasoned gearing them, as early as now, to be one of Cebu’s top hotels.
Being strategically located close to malls and establishments, Bai has raised the bar by offering check in guests, walk ins and anyone looking for a gastronomical treat great food selections with over 8 dining options to choose from. In this post, we explore Marble + Grain, their swanky steakhouse known for their custom-aged USDA prime beef and impressive wine offerings.
Starting January 16- 31, at P999.00+++, guests can eat to their hearts content every lunch time to mouth watering slices of certified Angus beef prepared and cooked to your liking by Marble + Grain’s very own resident British- Filipino Chef, Jaimes Van Haght. Aside from that, you can also help yourself to a variety of side dishes such as: mashed potatoes (a personal favorite!), corn, baked macaroni, salads and more! And if that’s not enough to catch your attention, you can always appease your appetite by pairing your meat with your choice of wine from their extensive collection.
1″ cut beef steak cooked medium rare. Just how I like it
Marble + Grain Steakhouse is located at the ground floor or Bai Hotel Cebu, Ouano Avenue cor. Seno Boulevard North Reclamation Area, Mandaue City Cebu, Philippines
For reservations, call +6332 342 8888 or +6332 355 8888.
Cuisine | Premium 21 days dry-aged Steak Time of Operation |
Lunch Open 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Dinner Open 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Closed on Mondays Ambience | Fine Dining Dress Code | Smart Casual (with collar for men) Location | Ground Floor Capacity | 48
It’s been such an adventure growing with Gibbs’ since they opened in 2014. Being able to see and experience the periodic changes they’ve been through over the past few years has been definitely been an exhilarating and fattening adventure. Having started as a backyard business operating in a residential area to a now industrial themed restaurant which is always overflowing with hungry customers and soon a… well, I can’t say it now but you’ll find out soon enough- Gibbs’ has consistently been providing Cebuano’s with great gastronomical experiences whether in the comforts of our own homes or within the wall scribbled confines of their resto.
But Gibbs’ isn’t quite done pushing the envelope just quite yet! This year, they’ve introduced 5 brand new and Issa approved (because that’s the most important thing, right?! lol) menu items for everyone to enjoy- the pulled pork taco, spicy adobo wings, the Juicy Lucy, sausage mac & cheese and oreo ala mode!
Spicy Adobo Wings
Simmered to perfection, this Filipino inspired dish is truly inato. It’s not too spicy, for anyone who’s spice scared like I am, and it’s packed with familiar family flavors perfect for anyone who is missing home. Or you know… someone who just likes Filipino food.
Pulled Pork Taco
Definitely my favorite of the bunch! This pulled pork in a soft shell taco is bursting with flavor (caution, it’s SPICY!) and is the perfect alternative from Gibbs’ wings. Served in 3’s at P250.00, you can share this with a friend but I recommend you devour the whole lot on your own.
Photo taken from Gibbs’ Facebook page Credits to owner, you are awesome, whoever you are!
Sausage Mac & Cheese
Not a fan of mac & cheese but this 5 cheese dish topped with Hungarian sausages is actually pretty good. I… don’t… really… know… how… to… describe… a… mac & cheese dish but… I’d definitely order this dish again and so will you. *casts magic spell*
Juicy Lucy
Also another favorite! This burger patty with a surprise center (hint: CHEEESE!) and perfectly made skin on mashed potatoes is the perfect mix with your favorite Gibbs’ wings.
Oreo Ala Mode
Always craving for something sweet after a big meal? Indulge in Gibbs’ newest desert offering, the oreo ala mode. It’s a deep fried oreo topped with vanilla ice cream, drizzled with chocolate syrup which all blends perfectly in your mouth. Also, this dish is Frank/ Coy’s (the owner. Gibb is their dog, in case you didn’t know) sons’ idea and I am so proud of them that I’m going to order it every single time I’m there! YES to starting them young!
BUT WAIT… THERE’S MORE!
Grape- Pomelo Juicer
What is an adventure to Gibbs’ without quenching your thirst with their amazing juices? This time, you can also help yourself to their new grape- pomelo drink!
CELEBRATE OCTOBERFEST WITH GIBBS’
Get 2 mugs of a liter of beer and an order of Gibbs’ Hot Wings all for only P499!
Special Salisbury Steak
(Clockwise: Sirloin garlic beef tapa, lasagna roll up, hickory smoked barbecued country ribs, chicken sandwich & banapple’s house salad (center))
(Clockwise: Awesome blueberry pancakes, honey carrot cheesecake, apple caramel crumble pie, banoffee pie & blueberry cheesecake)
(Clockwise: cheese & mushroom pie, ensaymada, double chocolate chip oatmeal cookie & oatmeal and blueberry muffin)
Banoffee pie (all- time favorite)
Busuanga to Coron map
Issa Talks... Alot 