Ilocos Sur: Vigan's Hidden Garden Restaurant is a Secret No More!
16 March 2011
Tutubi seldom visits a place more than once unless he has to just to use the time to search for something new. He visited Vigan twice, just to check in at two hotels on two different occasions. The first at Green R Hotel and the second at Cordillera Inn on Calle Crisologo.
During his second visit, he got interested in a "secret" garden restaurant outside the city proper, called Hidden Garden in barangay Bulala. Right after checking in at Cordillera Inn, he thought of a light meal of Vigan Empanada not at the Empanadahan which is just a short walk away, but at the Hidden Garden restaurants.
Photos of Hidden Garden Restaurant in Vigan, Ilocos Sur (taken using Tutubi's borrowed iPhone 4 at around 5:30pm so it's getting dark already)
the native grotto inside Hidden Garden, what greets you after the front office going to the restaurant
garden with topiaries, plants and flowers and gardening implements, for sale, byt the way
The dining area with overhanging millionaires vine, near the Lover's Corner
After the Empanada Corner is a pathway to the Secret Garden, Tutubi was greeted by a swarm of mosquitoes here, all but natural for gardens, so be prepared with your mosquito repellants
Hidden Garden's native halo-halo (that Tutubi finds not so good yet not bad at all, gelatin, sweetened banana, sago, cheese, pinipig (rice crispies), wafer stick, ice cream and coconut milk)
So how did Tutubi rate/review Hidden Garden?
Location: far but within reach of the crowd, probably crowded on weekends
Ambiance: relaxing and natural with the garden setting. there's a romantic place with overhanging millionaires' vine near the Lover's corner...for couples :P
Downside: swarm of mosquitoes greeted Tutubi when he tried to enter the garden with trees, only natural for a place, but Tutubi wasn't prepared so he stepped back. Besides, it's already getting dark so taking pictures is almost no use.
Price: empanada, the same at Vigan Empanadahan. others, quite reasonable considering it's location and romantic ambiance.
Customer Service: service was ok with no other people around. Tutubi tried to inquire about hoe to get there by sending a text message to their published contact number (on their official website with several telephone numbers). All he got was a "hu u?" reply and no real asnwer to his question. Hidden garden resutaurant owner should train his/her staff on how to courteously reply to inquiries and provide the requested answer.
others: there are plants and garden items on display and for sale. there's also a souvenir shop and a celebrity corner where pictures of famous visitors to the place are on display.
Overall: it deserves a second look, particularly since Tutubi went there for a only short time and ordered just two items on the menu. Tutubi would love to try out Ilocos Specialties and delicacies next time.
Hidden Garden Menu prices featuring Vigan Specialties:
Vigan Bagnet: PhP150.00
Vigan Longganiza: P150.00 (6 pcs)
Sinanglao: PhP130.00
Warek-warek: PhP130.00
Poqui-poqui (or poki-poki): PhP90.00
Dinengdeng PhP130.00
Igado PhP120.00
Pakbet with Bagnet: PhP100.00
Steam rice: P15.00
Garlic rice: PhP25.00
Filipino breakfast: PhP90.00 (longsilog, bangsilog, tapsilog)
Vigan Empanada: PhP45.00
Native Halo-halo: PhP75.00
Fresh fruit shakes at PhP80.00 - PhP100.00
Notes:
How to get to Hidden Garden:
just ride a tricycle (or calesa if you're a usual tourist) to take you to the secret garden in barangay Bulala, at a corner of the road going to Mindoro Airport (the domestic airport in Vigan) and the service road going to Baluarte zoo of Gov. Chavit Singson in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur. If you have a car, drive by Rizal Avenue, turn right when you see the cemetery that looks like a park, left at the end then ask around :P
(if you have a GPS, coordinates are: N17 33 36.3 E120 21 53.7 (Try OpenStreetMap, it's there on the map added by Tutubi))
Vigan Empanada (an alternative to Vigan Empanadahan at Vigan City center)
Vigan Sinanglao (an alternative to the authentic ambiance of sinanglao breakfast at Vigan Plaza Salcedo.
All photos taken with iPhone 4 (Tutubi loves the new iPhone 4 camera, muchh improved from the old iPhone 3G/3GS).
During his second visit, he got interested in a "secret" garden restaurant outside the city proper, called Hidden Garden in barangay Bulala. Right after checking in at Cordillera Inn, he thought of a light meal of Vigan Empanada not at the Empanadahan which is just a short walk away, but at the Hidden Garden restaurants.
Photos of Hidden Garden Restaurant in Vigan, Ilocos Sur (taken using Tutubi's borrowed iPhone 4 at around 5:30pm so it's getting dark already)
the native grotto inside Hidden Garden, what greets you after the front office going to the restaurant
garden with topiaries, plants and flowers and gardening implements, for sale, byt the way
The dining area with overhanging millionaires vine, near the Lover's Corner
After the Empanada Corner is a pathway to the Secret Garden, Tutubi was greeted by a swarm of mosquitoes here, all but natural for gardens, so be prepared with your mosquito repellants
Hidden Garden's native halo-halo (that Tutubi finds not so good yet not bad at all, gelatin, sweetened banana, sago, cheese, pinipig (rice crispies), wafer stick, ice cream and coconut milk)
So how did Tutubi rate/review Hidden Garden?
Location: far but within reach of the crowd, probably crowded on weekends
Ambiance: relaxing and natural with the garden setting. there's a romantic place with overhanging millionaires' vine near the Lover's corner...for couples :P
Downside: swarm of mosquitoes greeted Tutubi when he tried to enter the garden with trees, only natural for a place, but Tutubi wasn't prepared so he stepped back. Besides, it's already getting dark so taking pictures is almost no use.
Price: empanada, the same at Vigan Empanadahan. others, quite reasonable considering it's location and romantic ambiance.
Customer Service: service was ok with no other people around. Tutubi tried to inquire about hoe to get there by sending a text message to their published contact number (on their official website with several telephone numbers). All he got was a "hu u?" reply and no real asnwer to his question. Hidden garden resutaurant owner should train his/her staff on how to courteously reply to inquiries and provide the requested answer.
others: there are plants and garden items on display and for sale. there's also a souvenir shop and a celebrity corner where pictures of famous visitors to the place are on display.
Overall: it deserves a second look, particularly since Tutubi went there for a only short time and ordered just two items on the menu. Tutubi would love to try out Ilocos Specialties and delicacies next time.
Hidden Garden Menu prices featuring Vigan Specialties:
Vigan Bagnet: PhP150.00
Vigan Longganiza: P150.00 (6 pcs)
Sinanglao: PhP130.00
Warek-warek: PhP130.00
Poqui-poqui (or poki-poki): PhP90.00
Dinengdeng PhP130.00
Igado PhP120.00
Pakbet with Bagnet: PhP100.00
Steam rice: P15.00
Garlic rice: PhP25.00
Filipino breakfast: PhP90.00 (longsilog, bangsilog, tapsilog)
Vigan Empanada: PhP45.00
Native Halo-halo: PhP75.00
Fresh fruit shakes at PhP80.00 - PhP100.00
Notes:
How to get to Hidden Garden:
just ride a tricycle (or calesa if you're a usual tourist) to take you to the secret garden in barangay Bulala, at a corner of the road going to Mindoro Airport (the domestic airport in Vigan) and the service road going to Baluarte zoo of Gov. Chavit Singson in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur. If you have a car, drive by Rizal Avenue, turn right when you see the cemetery that looks like a park, left at the end then ask around :P
(if you have a GPS, coordinates are: N17 33 36.3 E120 21 53.7 (Try OpenStreetMap, it's there on the map added by Tutubi))
Vigan Empanada (an alternative to Vigan Empanadahan at Vigan City center)
Vigan Sinanglao (an alternative to the authentic ambiance of sinanglao breakfast at Vigan Plaza Salcedo.
All photos taken with iPhone 4 (Tutubi loves the new iPhone 4 camera, muchh improved from the old iPhone 3G/3GS).
Labels: Ilocos Region, Ilocos Sur, Restaurants, Vigan, Vigan Restaurants
posted by GingGoy @ 8:08 PM,
,
Isdaan Floating Restaurant in Tarlac
08 April 2009
Combine tried and tested Barrio Fiesta Singing Cooks and Waiters Atbp's restaurant experience and Filipino cuisine, native-themed palaisdaan restaurant with an ambiance of native huts with Buddhist-inspired landscaping and you got yourself a satisfying meal and relaxing place called Isdaan Floating Restaurant.
Located along Gerona, Tarlac portion of MacArthur Highway where Tutubi passed by so many times in the past but never actually visited. This time, his officemates, coming from Camp John Hay in Baguio City, acquiesced to drop by for late lunch at the popular palaisdaan floating restaurant in Tarlac. This place is half-way to Baguio, and other northern provinces making it a popular stop-over for road trips reachable from Manila via NLEX, SCTEX and Tarlac City.
Cory Aquino, a Tarlac native, consulting with the late Jaime Cardinal Sin
From MacArthur Highway, one can see the giant Buddhas, fishes and other Buddhist-inspired statues and mythical creatures that remind you of Buddhist nations of Southeast Asia like Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos if you've ever been to one of them.
Giant Buddha at Isdaan
Price of food at Isdaan Floating Restaurant is only slightly lower than Barrio Fiesta restaurants in Manila but worth it due to the relaxing atmosphere, beside rice fields with fresh air, conducive to sleeping after a heavy meal.
Sample menu prices:
Crispy Pata: PhP254.00 (crispy pork knuckles)
Ginataang Hipon Sipitsipitan Luto sa Buho: PhP139.00 (a recommended dish of prawns in spicy coconut milk served in bamboo),
Lechon de Leche PhP2,800.00 (one whole pit-roasted baby suckling pig, quite cheap actually)
Lechon Manok (Inihaw sa Dahon): PhP191.00 (one whole roast chicken)
lechon de leche (roast suckling pig) only costs PhP2,800.00
picture of the table with the food gone, reason why Tutubi doesn't take pictures of food if he's with hungry office mates. Note the restaurant serves food in environment-friendly banana leaves and bamboo-- no plastic except straws
Activities at Isdaan Floating Restaurant, Gerona, Tarlac:
Tacsiyapo Wall: Release your anger
Ungoy-Unggoyan: survive the spitting, urinating monkeys for a kilo of free fish
San Kilo Bridge: for 1 kilo of free fish, cooked the way you want it, cross the long bridge and survive
Mga Mahiwagang kamay: experience the legend of the giant hands
Wishing Buddhas: make your dreams come true
Cross this concrete bridge called "Sang Kilo Bridge" about 20 centimeters wide and 30 meters long, laden with sea shells as obstacles, and get 1 free kilo of fish cooked to your preferred way...the fishpond is about 6 ft to 9 ft so prepare to get wet should you fall
Note the place is dangerous for playing kids to roam around unattended so better stick to the restaurant's policy of using life vests for hyperactive kids. Be careful also when stepping on or leaving the floating huts, this is specially for non-swimmers as you can get a splash of your life there.
the tyrannosaurus rex dinosaur is out of place, it should've been moved to a children's playground as its a really distracting figure
Talking about negatives, their non-acceptance of credit cards -- it's a cash-only establishment so better bring wads of cash before visiting the restaurant. Budget about PhP300.00 and up per person and you'll really have a really nice meal. The establishment seems to be almost always full, attracting families of tourists and balikbayan so be early in order to get your desired seat/hut in the place.
How to get to Isdaan Floating Restaurant, Gerona, Tarlac:
Directions to Isdaan Floating Restaurant is easy, just follow this route: NLEX, SCTEX, exit at Tarlac, turn left going to Tarlac city proper and Hacienda Luisita then right on MacArthur Highway. Continue until you reach Gerona where the restaurant can be seen on your left. Travel time is about an hour from NLEX Dau exit entering SCTEX.
Update August 2010: there's an on-going construction of Isdaan restaurant in Bay, Laguna in between Kamayan sa Palaisdaan sa Bay and Samaral Seafood Restaurant. No information on opening date though.
UPDATE: November 2011: Isdaan Laguna is now open for business. No information yet on Isdaan telehone number for reservation nor contact person.
Located along Gerona, Tarlac portion of MacArthur Highway where Tutubi passed by so many times in the past but never actually visited. This time, his officemates, coming from Camp John Hay in Baguio City, acquiesced to drop by for late lunch at the popular palaisdaan floating restaurant in Tarlac. This place is half-way to Baguio, and other northern provinces making it a popular stop-over for road trips reachable from Manila via NLEX, SCTEX and Tarlac City.
Cory Aquino, a Tarlac native, consulting with the late Jaime Cardinal SinFrom MacArthur Highway, one can see the giant Buddhas, fishes and other Buddhist-inspired statues and mythical creatures that remind you of Buddhist nations of Southeast Asia like Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos if you've ever been to one of them.
Giant Buddha at IsdaanPrice of food at Isdaan Floating Restaurant is only slightly lower than Barrio Fiesta restaurants in Manila but worth it due to the relaxing atmosphere, beside rice fields with fresh air, conducive to sleeping after a heavy meal.
Sample menu prices:
Crispy Pata: PhP254.00 (crispy pork knuckles)
Ginataang Hipon Sipitsipitan Luto sa Buho: PhP139.00 (a recommended dish of prawns in spicy coconut milk served in bamboo),
Lechon de Leche PhP2,800.00 (one whole pit-roasted baby suckling pig, quite cheap actually)
Lechon Manok (Inihaw sa Dahon): PhP191.00 (one whole roast chicken)
lechon de leche (roast suckling pig) only costs PhP2,800.00
picture of the table with the food gone, reason why Tutubi doesn't take pictures of food if he's with hungry office mates. Note the restaurant serves food in environment-friendly banana leaves and bamboo-- no plastic except strawsActivities at Isdaan Floating Restaurant, Gerona, Tarlac:
Tacsiyapo Wall: Release your anger
Ungoy-Unggoyan: survive the spitting, urinating monkeys for a kilo of free fish
San Kilo Bridge: for 1 kilo of free fish, cooked the way you want it, cross the long bridge and survive
Mga Mahiwagang kamay: experience the legend of the giant hands
Wishing Buddhas: make your dreams come true
Cross this concrete bridge called "Sang Kilo Bridge" about 20 centimeters wide and 30 meters long, laden with sea shells as obstacles, and get 1 free kilo of fish cooked to your preferred way...the fishpond is about 6 ft to 9 ft so prepare to get wet should you fallNote the place is dangerous for playing kids to roam around unattended so better stick to the restaurant's policy of using life vests for hyperactive kids. Be careful also when stepping on or leaving the floating huts, this is specially for non-swimmers as you can get a splash of your life there.
the tyrannosaurus rex dinosaur is out of place, it should've been moved to a children's playground as its a really distracting figureTalking about negatives, their non-acceptance of credit cards -- it's a cash-only establishment so better bring wads of cash before visiting the restaurant. Budget about PhP300.00 and up per person and you'll really have a really nice meal. The establishment seems to be almost always full, attracting families of tourists and balikbayan so be early in order to get your desired seat/hut in the place.
How to get to Isdaan Floating Restaurant, Gerona, Tarlac:
Directions to Isdaan Floating Restaurant is easy, just follow this route: NLEX, SCTEX, exit at Tarlac, turn left going to Tarlac city proper and Hacienda Luisita then right on MacArthur Highway. Continue until you reach Gerona where the restaurant can be seen on your left. Travel time is about an hour from NLEX Dau exit entering SCTEX.
Update August 2010: there's an on-going construction of Isdaan restaurant in Bay, Laguna in between Kamayan sa Palaisdaan sa Bay and Samaral Seafood Restaurant. No information on opening date though.
UPDATE: November 2011: Isdaan Laguna is now open for business. No information yet on Isdaan telehone number for reservation nor contact person.
Labels: Central Luzon, Restaurants, Tarlac, Tarlac Restaurants
posted by GingGoy @ 9:27 PM,
,
The Chicken Inato of Chicken Ati-Atihan
10 November 2008
One of the places Tutubi ate out in Ormoc reminded him of Jo's Chicken Inato on Jupiter St. in Makati and the original one in Dumaguete City.
Chicken inato, literally meaning "our chicken" or "homely chicken" in English is special marinated chicken bar-be-queued to golden brown appetizing goodness.
Upon getting the menu, he ordered chicken thigh for only PhP65.00, cheap by Manila standard where a similar meal costs aboout Php100 or more.
a noisy picture of the chicken at ISO1600...'twas too dark inside
the bahay kubo ambiance of the place is good, though the lights are too dim for practical photography of food if you don't have additional light with you.
Tutubi did what he saw locals eating there did: eat with bare hands :P
Chicken Ati-atihan's tagline: Mapapasayaw ka sa sarap!
What's your favorite bar-be-qued chicken? Chicken inasal? chicken inato? or your own secret chicken bbq recipe?
---
Chicken Ati-atihan
Aviles St., Ormoc City, Leyte
There's another restaurant in Ormoc by the same owners of Chicken Ati-atihan serving the same chicken inato (and also offering franchise) but Tutubi forgot the name.
Other recommended Ormoc Restaurant:
Chito's Chow Bar & Restaurant
(Filipino/Chinese Dishes)
(Near Veteran's Park and Ormoc City Coliseum)
Tel. No. +63.53.255.3520
Chicken inato, literally meaning "our chicken" or "homely chicken" in English is special marinated chicken bar-be-queued to golden brown appetizing goodness.
Upon getting the menu, he ordered chicken thigh for only PhP65.00, cheap by Manila standard where a similar meal costs aboout Php100 or more.
a noisy picture of the chicken at ISO1600...'twas too dark inside
the bahay kubo ambiance of the place is good, though the lights are too dim for practical photography of food if you don't have additional light with you.Tutubi did what he saw locals eating there did: eat with bare hands :P
Chicken Ati-atihan's tagline: Mapapasayaw ka sa sarap!
What's your favorite bar-be-qued chicken? Chicken inasal? chicken inato? or your own secret chicken bbq recipe?
---
Chicken Ati-atihan
Aviles St., Ormoc City, Leyte
There's another restaurant in Ormoc by the same owners of Chicken Ati-atihan serving the same chicken inato (and also offering franchise) but Tutubi forgot the name.
Other recommended Ormoc Restaurant:
Chito's Chow Bar & Restaurant
(Filipino/Chinese Dishes)
(Near Veteran's Park and Ormoc City Coliseum)
Tel. No. +63.53.255.3520
Labels: Eastern Visayas, Leyte, Leyte Restaurants, Ormoc, Restaurants
posted by GingGoy @ 9:24 PM,
,
What Can You Eat for P100 in Cabanatuan?
28 August 2008
On Cagayan Valley road in Cabanatuan on the way to Isabela, Tutubi's driver pointed out a restaurant he recommended for lunch but since it was too early, they decided to have lunch there instead on their return trip to Manila.
It took Tutubi more than 5 hours to travel to Cabanatuan from Santiago City due to heavy traffic in Santiago City's fiesta aggravated by the gridlock in Cabanatuan caused by the "million" tricycles weaving their way throughout the city.
Tutubi's driver took a bypass road from crossing passing by Barangay Kapitan Pepe, Capitol and Texas Hotel and Traveller's Inn back into Maharlika Highway where Circle's Restaurant is located.
They waited in line at the jam-packed restaurant where a wedding reception was held and naturally, food was taken much faster than waiters can replenish at the buffet table so they decided to activate plan B: transfer to another all you can eat restaurant near Circles.
Just a few meters Circle's Restaurant is another place offering the same tack at the same price of P100: Honeys Grill and Restaurant shaded with a big aratilis tree and other plants. The place has no air-conditioning but is cool enough due to the presence of chicken wire-like porous walls allowing air from the outside to circulate.
Menu included balaw-balaw, adobo, pinakbet, ginataang kalabasa, caldereta, and chicken curry with salad, leche flan and gelatin. You get all these for only P100 or P120 for additional bottomless softdrinks or iced tea.
Over-all, food at Honey's Grill is not something to rave about since it's just ordinary to Tutubi's quite discerning taste; but the price tag for such an "all you can eat" menu makes it a recommended place to eat for budget travelers like him wishing to squeeze the most out of P100 bill whose value shrinks due to high inflation aggravated by the rising cost of fuel prices. (for foreign readers' information: US$1 = P45)
After indulging in two full plates, iced tea and desserts, headed out to find the former concentration camp immortalized in the Hollywood movie "The Great Raid" plus the visit to Cabanatuan Cathedral to visit the Antonio Luna monument interrupted by a sudden rain that rendered parts of the "tricycle capital of the Philippines" flooded.
another all you can eat place spotted by Tutubi in Baliuag, Bulacan: Mango Tango Restaurant
About 4 hours later, Tutubi's back to his lair somewhere in Metro Manila.
It took Tutubi more than 5 hours to travel to Cabanatuan from Santiago City due to heavy traffic in Santiago City's fiesta aggravated by the gridlock in Cabanatuan caused by the "million" tricycles weaving their way throughout the city.
Tutubi's driver took a bypass road from crossing passing by Barangay Kapitan Pepe, Capitol and Texas Hotel and Traveller's Inn back into Maharlika Highway where Circle's Restaurant is located.
They waited in line at the jam-packed restaurant where a wedding reception was held and naturally, food was taken much faster than waiters can replenish at the buffet table so they decided to activate plan B: transfer to another all you can eat restaurant near Circles.
Just a few meters Circle's Restaurant is another place offering the same tack at the same price of P100: Honeys Grill and Restaurant shaded with a big aratilis tree and other plants. The place has no air-conditioning but is cool enough due to the presence of chicken wire-like porous walls allowing air from the outside to circulate.
Menu included balaw-balaw, adobo, pinakbet, ginataang kalabasa, caldereta, and chicken curry with salad, leche flan and gelatin. You get all these for only P100 or P120 for additional bottomless softdrinks or iced tea.
Over-all, food at Honey's Grill is not something to rave about since it's just ordinary to Tutubi's quite discerning taste; but the price tag for such an "all you can eat" menu makes it a recommended place to eat for budget travelers like him wishing to squeeze the most out of P100 bill whose value shrinks due to high inflation aggravated by the rising cost of fuel prices. (for foreign readers' information: US$1 = P45)
After indulging in two full plates, iced tea and desserts, headed out to find the former concentration camp immortalized in the Hollywood movie "The Great Raid" plus the visit to Cabanatuan Cathedral to visit the Antonio Luna monument interrupted by a sudden rain that rendered parts of the "tricycle capital of the Philippines" flooded.
another all you can eat place spotted by Tutubi in Baliuag, Bulacan: Mango Tango RestaurantAbout 4 hours later, Tutubi's back to his lair somewhere in Metro Manila.
Labels: Cabanatuan City, Central Luzon, Nueva Ecija, Restaurants
posted by GingGoy @ 10:13 PM,
,
"Shoot to Kill" in Cebu
22 July 2008
After the disappointing first dinner at The Port, Tutubi and his officemates asked around for other places to eat near Waterfront and people pointed them to a branch of Neo-Neo which was really near the place.Neo-Neo restaurant is similarly themed with the popular SUTUKIL restaurants, more like carinderia eateries, in Mactan Island particularly those near the Lapu-lapu Shrine. Customers can choose raw ingredients of isda (fish), tulya (clams), pusit (squid), talaba (oysters) and others while choosing the way they're cooked.
Neo-neo, looking at their menu, is also offering Japanese and Singaporean food to serve the number of tourists from Japan and Singapore frequenting the place.
fresh fish, squid, fish, oysters et al ready to be cooked in three basic ways.
part of the menu showing prices. Didn't order Manok Bisaya for Manila rats like to order seafood whenever they can
The pop word sutukil or (SU-TU-KIL) is a humorous (sounds like "shoot to kill") portmanteau of three Cebuano words: sugba, tuwa, kilaw -- which refer to the three ways of preparing food, particularly seafood like fish. Sugba means to broil over hot charcoal; tuwa means to cook in boiling water together with some spices and seasoning; kilaw means to prepare raw but soaked in vinegar with spices e.g. onions, garlic and pepper quite similar to ceviche of South America using citrus-based marinate and Japan's sashimi (served totally raw but using dipping sauce of soy sauce and wasabi).
Similarly themed restaurants in Cebu are Goodah-Gud and Tsibogs. Neo-Neo has branches on Juan Luna Avenue in Cebu City, Fortuna Street in Mandaue City and Lapulapu City.
The only comment Tutubi has on this restaurant was the slow serving of his fresh buko juice order. Ambiance is typical al fresco but there's also an air-conditioned room but was reserved for the night by a certain group. Tutubi particularly loved the lato kinilaw. This is a recommended restaurant besides Golden Cowrie offering much better choices than the pretentious The Port Seafood Restaurant.
Neo-neo delivers, you may call telephone number +63.32.232.6688
Labels: Cebu, Cebu City, Cebu Restaurants, Restaurants
posted by GingGoy @ 9:53 PM,
,
Review: Golden Cowrie Native Restaurant Cebu City
18 July 2008
After finishing what needs to be done at SM City Cebu, Tutubi and his officemate asked around for a nice, yet budget-friendly restaurant nearby, their other officemate suggested Golden Cowrie near Waterfront Lahug and proceeded to order food for the group since they're already there. As usual, Tutubi requested local Cebuano cuisine be included.
After taking another cab ride from SM City Cebu to Golden Cowrie restaurant, Tutubi was dismayed at the food ordered by his officemate who seemed uninformed of his request for she ordered bulalo, a soupy dish of Batangas provenance, Bicol Express from the Bicol region so named after the railroad from Manila with its signature coconut milk and fiery hot cuisine, and pinakbet, an Ilocano vegetable dish.
Bulalo reminds Tutubi of Singaporean/Malaysian Bak Kut Teh (but made of pork)
The pinakbet, vegetable meat stew of the Ilocos in northern Luzon, in it's authentic form is composed of ampalaya (bitter gourd), talong (eggplant), and kamatis (tomatoes) stewed in bagoong (fish sauce or fermented shrimp paste). This is Golden Cowrie's take on the Ilocano viand.
Tutubi, with the last option to choose the last dish opted for Chicken Halang-halang, knowing fully well that halang-halang in Cebuano means spicy hot. (Tutubi can understand and speak Cebuano although "gamay lang." He was even called an honorary Cebuano by an officemate from his previous job when he noticed he can pass of as one unlike others frustrated with using Tagalog but getting replies in English from locals in Cebu and Dumaguete)
Chicken Halang-halang is a Cebuano/Visayan dish of chicken in coconut milk, spices and lots of chilies.
Golden Cowrie Review and Comments:
The Bulalo was ok, but not exceptional, there are better ones in Batangas and Cavite/Tagaytay but a steaming pot of hot soup is really welcome due to the rains still brought by typhoon Frank. The chicken halang-halang's good anre recommended with the right balance of spiciness and other spices.
Costs/Sample Menu Prices:
Bulalo with meat: P229
Bulalo soup: P69
Chicken Halang-halang P85
Bicol Express P69
Pinakbet P69
All these four dishes came with all you can eat rice.
Verdict: It's a recommended restaurant looking for Filipino dishes in Cebu, comes with a price that won't make a serious hole in your pocket. Ambiance is airy and very Filipino and ample parking space for those with own vehicles.
Address : Salinas Drive, Lahug
Tel No. : +63.32.233-4243, +63.32.233.4670
Open: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 6:00 PM - 10 PM (Daily)
Golden Cowrie is just a short ride away from Waterfront Lahug. Taxi is just P50 and jeepneys won't cost more than minimum fare of PhP8.50. There also is a branch at SM City Cebu Lower Ground Floor
After taking another cab ride from SM City Cebu to Golden Cowrie restaurant, Tutubi was dismayed at the food ordered by his officemate who seemed uninformed of his request for she ordered bulalo, a soupy dish of Batangas provenance, Bicol Express from the Bicol region so named after the railroad from Manila with its signature coconut milk and fiery hot cuisine, and pinakbet, an Ilocano vegetable dish.
Bulalo reminds Tutubi of Singaporean/Malaysian Bak Kut Teh (but made of pork)
The pinakbet, vegetable meat stew of the Ilocos in northern Luzon, in it's authentic form is composed of ampalaya (bitter gourd), talong (eggplant), and kamatis (tomatoes) stewed in bagoong (fish sauce or fermented shrimp paste). This is Golden Cowrie's take on the Ilocano viand.Tutubi, with the last option to choose the last dish opted for Chicken Halang-halang, knowing fully well that halang-halang in Cebuano means spicy hot. (Tutubi can understand and speak Cebuano although "gamay lang." He was even called an honorary Cebuano by an officemate from his previous job when he noticed he can pass of as one unlike others frustrated with using Tagalog but getting replies in English from locals in Cebu and Dumaguete)
Chicken Halang-halang is a Cebuano/Visayan dish of chicken in coconut milk, spices and lots of chilies.Golden Cowrie Review and Comments:
The Bulalo was ok, but not exceptional, there are better ones in Batangas and Cavite/Tagaytay but a steaming pot of hot soup is really welcome due to the rains still brought by typhoon Frank. The chicken halang-halang's good anre recommended with the right balance of spiciness and other spices.
Costs/Sample Menu Prices:
Bulalo with meat: P229
Bulalo soup: P69
Chicken Halang-halang P85
Bicol Express P69
Pinakbet P69
All these four dishes came with all you can eat rice.
Verdict: It's a recommended restaurant looking for Filipino dishes in Cebu, comes with a price that won't make a serious hole in your pocket. Ambiance is airy and very Filipino and ample parking space for those with own vehicles.
Address : Salinas Drive, Lahug
Tel No. : +63.32.233-4243, +63.32.233.4670
Open: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 6:00 PM - 10 PM (Daily)
Golden Cowrie is just a short ride away from Waterfront Lahug. Taxi is just P50 and jeepneys won't cost more than minimum fare of PhP8.50. There also is a branch at SM City Cebu Lower Ground Floor
Labels: Cebu City, Cebu Restaurants, Filipino Cuisine, Filipino Food, Restaurants
posted by GingGoy @ 10:31 PM,
,
Shakey's Mojo Potatoes and Thin Crust Pizza
12 July 2008
"I love potatoes," Tutubi often tells his friends. "From french fries, baked potatoes, mashed potatoes, mojo potatoes, potato marble salads, except hash browns of MacDonalds for unknown reasons."
One of his favorites is Shakey's Mojo Potatoes with sour cream garlic dip at P69 (about $1.50) that he orders to take home. This time the order came with Manager's choice pizza, the thin crust version, at the newly-opened Shakey's Walter Mart North EDSA.
Wanna know why he chose manager's choice? Click here to know a bit of Tutubi's personal side. :P
One of his favorites is Shakey's Mojo Potatoes with sour cream garlic dip at P69 (about $1.50) that he orders to take home. This time the order came with Manager's choice pizza, the thin crust version, at the newly-opened Shakey's Walter Mart North EDSA.
Wanna know why he chose manager's choice? Click here to know a bit of Tutubi's personal side. :P
Labels: Personal, Restaurants
posted by GingGoy @ 8:57 PM,
,
Curacha Encounter at La Vista del Mar
20 April 2008
Due to Tutubi's insistence, he was able to persuade his officemates to eat out at the famed La Vista del Mar restaurant on the seafront of Zamboanga City due to information from their driver that they also offer Zamboanga's sought after curacha, a certain species of sea crab endemic in the waters around Zamboanga peninsula.
Going to the place from Garden Orchid Hotel was quite a long drive since it's quite far. Checkpoints were everywhere and security was tight due to the presence of American troops participating in the Balikatan (shoulder to shoulder) exercise, a military exercise between US and Philippine soldiers.
the vinta-lined tables of La Vista del Mar
Picture of La Vista del Mar's last remaining curacha as shown by the waiter on a basin. The curacha is a crustacean found only in the area around Zamboanga peninsula.
the underside of curacha with legs that look like crabs and lobsters
Curacha is the Chavacano word for the crustacean that looks like a crossbreed between a large sea crab and the big spiny lobster that's also meaty and delicious! Best to cook it minimally to preserve its unique exotic taste.
Tutubi was surprised that there were no other people except a group of foreigners, tourists that is, who came to explore the area in spite of the travel advisories. The tourists seem to enjoy their stay where most people dare not tread out of fear even if they haven't been there.
seafood rice with evil aligue (crab fat)
Comments/Review: La Vista del Mar's place is cozy with ambiance of Zamboanga truly captured with great vista of the sea. Menu prices are cheaper than that of Hai San Restaurant but can't give you actual prices since Tutubi didn't shoulder the bill.
Adjacent to La Vista del Mar is Maria Clara Art Gallery. Also proximate is the Yakan Weaving Village where you can buy handwoven products of Yakan people of Basilan.
How to get to La Vista del Mar:
Board a jeep in the city (pueblo) with signboard Rio Hondo (a Muslim village of houses on stilts built over water). The place is near Yakan Weaving Village.
Note: cucaracha is the spanish word for cockroach
Related Zamboanga City Posts:
Fort Pilar
Camp Atilano, Pasonanca Park
Hardin Maria Clara Lobregat, Pasonanca Park
Going to the place from Garden Orchid Hotel was quite a long drive since it's quite far. Checkpoints were everywhere and security was tight due to the presence of American troops participating in the Balikatan (shoulder to shoulder) exercise, a military exercise between US and Philippine soldiers.
the vinta-lined tables of La Vista del Mar
Picture of La Vista del Mar's last remaining curacha as shown by the waiter on a basin. The curacha is a crustacean found only in the area around Zamboanga peninsula.
the underside of curacha with legs that look like crabs and lobstersCuracha is the Chavacano word for the crustacean that looks like a crossbreed between a large sea crab and the big spiny lobster that's also meaty and delicious! Best to cook it minimally to preserve its unique exotic taste.
Tutubi was surprised that there were no other people except a group of foreigners, tourists that is, who came to explore the area in spite of the travel advisories. The tourists seem to enjoy their stay where most people dare not tread out of fear even if they haven't been there.
seafood rice with evil aligue (crab fat)Comments/Review: La Vista del Mar's place is cozy with ambiance of Zamboanga truly captured with great vista of the sea. Menu prices are cheaper than that of Hai San Restaurant but can't give you actual prices since Tutubi didn't shoulder the bill.
Adjacent to La Vista del Mar is Maria Clara Art Gallery. Also proximate is the Yakan Weaving Village where you can buy handwoven products of Yakan people of Basilan.
How to get to La Vista del Mar:
Board a jeep in the city (pueblo) with signboard Rio Hondo (a Muslim village of houses on stilts built over water). The place is near Yakan Weaving Village.
Note: cucaracha is the spanish word for cockroach
Related Zamboanga City Posts:
Fort Pilar
Camp Atilano, Pasonanca Park
Hardin Maria Clara Lobregat, Pasonanca Park
Labels: Restaurants, Seafood, Zamboanga City, Zamboanga Peninsula
posted by GingGoy @ 9:35 PM,
,
Angeles City Food Trip: Itinerary and Restaurants
16 February 2008
After all the hot air balloons were no longer visible on the horizon, Tutubi didn't bother to watch the skydiving, helicopter maneuvers and aerial acrobatics for they're already hungry and Tutubi's camera battery lost juice earlier than usual. Decided instead to go for an impromptu food trip of the city of Angels i.e. Angeles City.
First stop: Razon's Halo-halo, not the original branch in Guagua and Angeles City, but a stall inside the grounds of the fiesta. Ordered the usual halo-halo, dinuguan and puto. The halo-halo was its usual sweet sensation but the dinuguan was disappointing.
Next stop: Zapata's Cantina Mexicano, an authentic Mexican restaurant near Field's avenue, the (in)famous red light district of Angeles City. Ordered a simple nachos, a simple one sprinkled with jalapeno and black olives with cheese dip (it's simple and lacks the hot punch Tutubi is always looking for). The burrito filled with shredded beef and beans was great however. Didn't order pizza and pasta for there's a long list of other restaurants to "conquer."
Third detour: the visit to Susie's Cuisine at Nepo Mart was interrupted by the magnetic charm of Fruits in Ice Cream (FIC) where delectable desserts of mango and pistachio ice cream.
Near FIC and beside Nepo Mall, the ice cream was further "pushed" down by a sampler of Armando's Pizza at the Historic Old Camalig Restaurant, an old grains depot converted to a quiant restaurant with "old world" feel. The pizza, unique to Pampanga, features Kapampangan longganiza, salted duck eggs (ebun buru), onions and pickle relish and proclaims it as the "pambansang pizza (national pizza)." The pizza, when ordered for take use a native bilao which good for their environment advocacy.
The pitstop: Susie's Cuisine, famous for the best kakanin of Pampanga particularly mochi (looks like japanese gyoza), tibok-tibok (akin to maja blanca). Tutubi also found out Aling Susie's embotido passed his exacting standard on this steamed pork delicacy. (You may also visit Colour Orange's take on Pampanga Food Trip: Susie's Cuisine for kakanin/pasalubong photos)
At around 12noon and with tummies full of the samplings, headed home to chaotic Manila.
---
Other Notable Angeles City Restaurants and Food Trip destinations:
Near Nepo Mart is a branch of Everybody's Cafe, Halo-Halo sa Corazon (whose version of halo-halo consists of sweetened saba (a banana variety), macapuno (mutant coconut), halaya (purple yam jam), beans and cream corn. Also in Angeles City is the home of original sisig: Aling Lucing's Sisig who's branches now in Makati.
Other Information:
Historic Camalig Restaurant
292 Sto. Rosario Street, Angeles City
Website: http://www.camalig.com
Location: Beside Nepo Mall
You will not find information on girlie bars and hookers and stuff (like those on Fields Avenue, Barangay Balibago) for Tutubi doesn't advocate sex tourism-- please respect the Filipina and women in general.
How to get to Angeles City, Pampanga:
Commute by Bus to Angeles City by Philippine Rabbit with terminal on Rizal Avenue (near corner Recto Avenue). Nearest LRT station is Doroteo Jose and LRT 2's last station. Victory Liner buses bound for Dagupan can also be taken to get to Angeles City (alight at the terminal then board a jeep or tricylcle to your destination). You may refer to the bus companies' official websites for fares and updated schedules.
Related Links:
Razon's Halo-Halo
First stop: Razon's Halo-halo, not the original branch in Guagua and Angeles City, but a stall inside the grounds of the fiesta. Ordered the usual halo-halo, dinuguan and puto. The halo-halo was its usual sweet sensation but the dinuguan was disappointing.
Next stop: Zapata's Cantina Mexicano, an authentic Mexican restaurant near Field's avenue, the (in)famous red light district of Angeles City. Ordered a simple nachos, a simple one sprinkled with jalapeno and black olives with cheese dip (it's simple and lacks the hot punch Tutubi is always looking for). The burrito filled with shredded beef and beans was great however. Didn't order pizza and pasta for there's a long list of other restaurants to "conquer."
Third detour: the visit to Susie's Cuisine at Nepo Mart was interrupted by the magnetic charm of Fruits in Ice Cream (FIC) where delectable desserts of mango and pistachio ice cream.
Near FIC and beside Nepo Mall, the ice cream was further "pushed" down by a sampler of Armando's Pizza at the Historic Old Camalig Restaurant, an old grains depot converted to a quiant restaurant with "old world" feel. The pizza, unique to Pampanga, features Kapampangan longganiza, salted duck eggs (ebun buru), onions and pickle relish and proclaims it as the "pambansang pizza (national pizza)." The pizza, when ordered for take use a native bilao which good for their environment advocacy.
The pitstop: Susie's Cuisine, famous for the best kakanin of Pampanga particularly mochi (looks like japanese gyoza), tibok-tibok (akin to maja blanca). Tutubi also found out Aling Susie's embotido passed his exacting standard on this steamed pork delicacy. (You may also visit Colour Orange's take on Pampanga Food Trip: Susie's Cuisine for kakanin/pasalubong photos)
At around 12noon and with tummies full of the samplings, headed home to chaotic Manila.
---
Other Notable Angeles City Restaurants and Food Trip destinations:
Near Nepo Mart is a branch of Everybody's Cafe, Halo-Halo sa Corazon (whose version of halo-halo consists of sweetened saba (a banana variety), macapuno (mutant coconut), halaya (purple yam jam), beans and cream corn. Also in Angeles City is the home of original sisig: Aling Lucing's Sisig who's branches now in Makati.
Other Information:
Historic Camalig Restaurant
292 Sto. Rosario Street, Angeles City
Website: http://www.camalig.com
Location: Beside Nepo Mall
You will not find information on girlie bars and hookers and stuff (like those on Fields Avenue, Barangay Balibago) for Tutubi doesn't advocate sex tourism-- please respect the Filipina and women in general.
How to get to Angeles City, Pampanga:
Commute by Bus to Angeles City by Philippine Rabbit with terminal on Rizal Avenue (near corner Recto Avenue). Nearest LRT station is Doroteo Jose and LRT 2's last station. Victory Liner buses bound for Dagupan can also be taken to get to Angeles City (alight at the terminal then board a jeep or tricylcle to your destination). You may refer to the bus companies' official websites for fares and updated schedules.
Related Links:
Razon's Halo-Halo
Labels: Angeles City, Pampanga, Pampanga Restaurant, Restaurants
posted by GingGoy @ 10:17 PM,
,
Kamayan sa Palaisdaan sa Bay Laguna
05 January 2008
What was initially planned by Tutubi as a return visit to Kamay ni Hesus in Lucban, Quezon and a sidetrip to Kamayan sa Palaisdaan Tayabas also in Quezon turned out into a visit to Calumpang, Laguna to get some lanzones/langsat, coffee seedlings and other herbs including basil (that Tutubi initially thought was taheebo) then a quick drive towards Bay town, famous for monay (local buns), caught sight of Victoria's "mighty duck," into the sister restaurant of Kamayan sa Palaisdaan in Tayabas, Quezon.It was already nearing 12 noon and good thing they arrived a tad early for, after a while, all the huts were occupied and some waited for vacancies not wanting to dine in the place's usual restaurant preferring the floating bahay kubo ambiance.
picture of floating native huts near the entrance
childrens' playground even for the young at heart
ginataang hipon (shrimps in coconut milk) (price: P210), Tutubi's choice though there's only 4 pieces of shrimps.
inihaw na talong with bagoong (roasted eggplant with fish sauce (that stinks to most people yet tastes heavenly to some) (price: P35/order)
sinigang na panga ng tuna (tuna jaw in sour soup Filipino style)(P600 per order but can be half only like this one at P300)
sizzling pusit (squid) that's a little rubbery but the sauce is good though Tutubi prefers it to be a little more spicier
Fresh Buco Juice to wash them all down with its malauhog greatnessThe total bill for 5 people was only P1,050.00, not bad for the great food, rustic ambiance and picturesque place about 40 minutes drive from Paete.
It's another unplanned trip that turned out great. Next time, Tutubi will visit the original one in Tayabas reportedly owned by a sibling of the owner of this restaurant...stay tuned!
Kainan sa Palaisdaan sa Bay
Open from 8am to 10pm (last order at 9pm)
Brgy. Dila, Bay, Laguna
Landline: +63.49.568.0255
(better reserve in advance)
Kainan sa Palaisdaan Tayabas, Quezon
Brgy. Dapdap, Tayabas, Quezon
Tel. No.: +63.42.793.3654
Fax NO.: +63.42.793.3655
E-mail: info@kamayansapalaisdaan.com
Website: http://www.kamayansapalaisdaan.com
How to go to Kamayan sa Palaisdaan sa Bay:
Commute:the floating restaurants can be reached only via tricycle from Bay town. Not yet sure if the jeepneys that ply Calamba-Sta Cruz route pass by it.Green Star and HM Tranport buses from Pasay and Cubao pass by Bay, Laguna.
If you've strayed into blog looking for directions to Calumpang, Laguna, it's a town accessible via Laguna's capital town of Sta. Cruz. Driving from SLEX, take Calamba exit then turn right at Calamba national highway, head straight passing by the resort town of Los Banos, then Bay (you'll see Kamayan sa Palaisdaan on the highway to your right) soon after you'll see the big duck of Victoria, the heritage town of Pila with its old houses and historic plaza, before Sta. Cruz. After passing by SunStar Mall you'll see a traffic light. Turn right if you want to go to Calumpang or Liliw, turn left going to Sta Cruz poblacion or Laguna Provincial Capitol or straight ahead going to Pagsanjan (where Pagsanjan Falls is), Lumban, Kalayaan or Paete.
Update: there's an on-going construction of Isdaan Floating restaurant near this restaurant and Samaral Seafood Restaurant. There's also Kamayan sa Palaisdaan sa Tayabas, Quezon
Labels: Calabarzon, Laguna Restaurants, Restaurants, Southern Tagalog
posted by GingGoy @ 8:29 PM,
,
An Exotic Restaurant in Laguna
08 November 2007
A nice restaurant in a garden setting nestled on the slopes of the Sierra Madre mountain range whose real name is Exotik Garden Restaurant, it has quaint Filipiniana-themed huts made from indigenous materials and wooden decorations reminiscent of Paete town, from where the owner is former mayor.
Actually located in Kalayaan town and not in Paete, like most people associate the place with, Exotik's resident python, Samantha, welcomes visitors to the place though it's sort of a turn-off to some who can't stand the sight of snakes and constrictors.
The menu is a combination of native Filipino dishes. The exotic fare, trimmed down to conform to laws on the protection of endangered and protected animals, used to include: bayawak (monitor lizard), baboy damo (wild boar), sawa (python), usa (deer), pating (sharks) and ostriches. Now, only ostrich and non-endangered animals appear on it similar to what used-to-be exotic Balaw-balaw Restaurant in Angono, Rizal once served. Price is mostly mid-range under P200 per dish.
the man-made waterfalls in the manicured garden
When Tutubi went there again, he ordered ginataang kuhol at pako (golden snails/escargot with coconut milk and fern), calamares (fried squid) washed down with SanMig Light.
There are huts located quite high up the slope that offers a fascinating view of Laguna de Bay (laguna lake) facing west so the sunset is another sight to behold. Function rooms can be ideal venues for weddings, baptisms and other events.
A souvenir shop sells various items and products of Laguna and Quezon province e.g. buco pie, various sweets, tsinelas from Liliw, woodcarvings from Paete, coin purses made of snake skin and dried toads et al.
Exotik Restaurant is open up to 9pm everyday and located on the national highway near the northern tip of barrio Longos of Kalayaan, Laguna. There used to be branch near Caliraya Lake but it seems to have been closed down.
How to go there:
Commute: HM Transit Bus (Cubao near Victory Liner or Taft avenu near corner Buendia terminal)bound for Sta. Cruz. In Pagsawitan (where most people alight) take a jeepney bound for Siniloan or Paete then alight in front of the restaurant (tell the driver "Exotic")
by car: drive to Laguna up to Pagsanjan then left turn on approach of Pagsanjan church. The restaurant is a few meters from the 100 kilometer post so it's not easy to miss.
Actually located in Kalayaan town and not in Paete, like most people associate the place with, Exotik's resident python, Samantha, welcomes visitors to the place though it's sort of a turn-off to some who can't stand the sight of snakes and constrictors.
The menu is a combination of native Filipino dishes. The exotic fare, trimmed down to conform to laws on the protection of endangered and protected animals, used to include: bayawak (monitor lizard), baboy damo (wild boar), sawa (python), usa (deer), pating (sharks) and ostriches. Now, only ostrich and non-endangered animals appear on it similar to what used-to-be exotic Balaw-balaw Restaurant in Angono, Rizal once served. Price is mostly mid-range under P200 per dish.
the man-made waterfalls in the manicured garden
When Tutubi went there again, he ordered ginataang kuhol at pako (golden snails/escargot with coconut milk and fern), calamares (fried squid) washed down with SanMig Light.
There are huts located quite high up the slope that offers a fascinating view of Laguna de Bay (laguna lake) facing west so the sunset is another sight to behold. Function rooms can be ideal venues for weddings, baptisms and other events.
A souvenir shop sells various items and products of Laguna and Quezon province e.g. buco pie, various sweets, tsinelas from Liliw, woodcarvings from Paete, coin purses made of snake skin and dried toads et al.
Exotik Restaurant is open up to 9pm everyday and located on the national highway near the northern tip of barrio Longos of Kalayaan, Laguna. There used to be branch near Caliraya Lake but it seems to have been closed down.
How to go there:
Commute: HM Transit Bus (Cubao near Victory Liner or Taft avenu near corner Buendia terminal)bound for Sta. Cruz. In Pagsawitan (where most people alight) take a jeepney bound for Siniloan or Paete then alight in front of the restaurant (tell the driver "Exotic")
by car: drive to Laguna up to Pagsanjan then left turn on approach of Pagsanjan church. The restaurant is a few meters from the 100 kilometer post so it's not easy to miss.
Labels: Calabarzon, Kalayaan, Laguna, Laguna Restaurants, Restaurants, Southern Tagalog
posted by GingGoy @ 9:13 PM,
,