Holiday Selections from Tinapayan Festival

I usually eat meals with rice but when it comes to breakfast and merienda(snack time), I eat bread. Bread is easier to eat and you don't need utensils required. In the Philippines, we have lots of neighborhood bakeries and some of them are as old as the previous generation.

I don't mind if there are commercial branding in the bread business but it is also good for small neighborhood bakeries to hit big in the market. One example is Tinapayan Festival. It already has shops in Market! Market! and Fisher Mall but it all came from the flagship store in Dapitan Manila where all these breads were made.

Crema De Fruta

Tinapayan Festival is already in the bread business for 30 years now and I am glad I will find out why got them this long by tasting their products at main store in Dapitan. Here are the selections ideal for the holidays. The Crema De Fruta is ideal for the Christmas eve because it is not only delicious but how it look like as if it was baked for this occasion.

Cheese Dinner Roll

The next one I tried was Cheese Dinner Roll. It may look like an oversize Ensaymada but it is more than that but I think it can be ideal for other occasions. The Almond Cheese Cake is not what I expected. Just like the Cheese Dinner Roll, it also appears as if nothing is special until you taste it. You can taste how is is full of flavor.

Almond Cheese Cake

I also tried the cream puffs which is one of the best I've had as well as the special ensaymada and for non-sweet breads like the meat rolls didn't got me disappointed. But we got the best for last was the Holiday Bread. It may look like a rounded crema but it is like a fruitcake minus the wine and I find it better than the fruitcake.

Holiday Bread

The breads of Tinapayan is baked fresh but also delivered in their other stores. But rest assured, it is just the right amount for it to be sold within the day so it will remain fresh after selling it.For more food tripping, follow this blog and like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.

Ma-lechong Pasko from Binalot!

Celebrate your Christmas with a good PINOY meal and get that chance to win a Ping Ping's Lechon for the holidays. Get a raffle coupon for every purchase of any Pancit or Ulam sa BILAO of BINALOT from November 5 to December 15, and you might be lucky enough to win a mouth-watering Lechon. So, keep on getting BINALOT by the BILAO and get more chances to win a Lechon in this once a year treat!

Log on to www.binalot.com for promo details.

Taco Bell expands in the South

For many years in operation, Taco Bell in the Philippines have been situated in the North. I am also a Taco Bell patron because it's the only fast food that serves tacos and whenever I am having lunch in Cubao or in North EDSA, that's where I usually go.

After four outlets(including inside the Big Dome), Taco Bell opens it's newest branch in Alabang Festival Mall. The opening was celebrated with a series of indoor extreme games like the inflatable rock climbing challenge, a mechanical surfing simulation. Tried it but fail.

There also has a taco eating contest which is fun to look at because the hard taco is not easy to eat. Taco Bell's expansion in the South is just the beginning but we can be assured that there's a possibility of another branch somewhere here in the South.

One thing I also like about Taco Bell is their ongoing support for World Food Program, a humanitarian feeding program because Taco Bell's policy is Live Mas(Much). For more foodie adventures, follow this blog and like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.

Binalot Goes On Wheels

BINALOT Fiesta Foods Inc. now offers its food truck for special events like fairs, fiestas and community events. It is also a perfect party kiosk which can be rented for your garden activity, school fair or company anniversary. It comes complete with food preparation equipment and is guaranteed to be a hit at your next Binalot-themed event. 

For inquiries and reservations, you can call 824-1111 or message us on facebook.com/binalotfiesta or twitter @binalotfiesta.

The First Brewfest at Globe Circuit Event Ground on October 17

Social drinking is universal. Despite many diversities, it's common to drink in tavern, saloon, pub, bar or whatever you like to call it. What makes drinking fun is not the beer but the company that you have. It is always better to drink with friends.

(L-R): Valorie Dela Cruz and Sander dela Cruz, of VMDC Events Management; Stephen Co Nipa Brew;  Shiella Aguilar, Project Development Manager for Makati of Ayala Land Inc.; Malou Yambao, Brottzeit German Bier & Restaurant; Joey Viray, Mike Vergel De Dios and Marco Viray, Joe's Brew; Francis Blanco of Baguio Brewery

I remember a line from the TV opening theme of Cheers, "You wanna go where everybody knows your name." This is true to most people. They find it therapeutic more that confessing to a priest because in a bar, people listen. A seminary professor told me this.

On that note. it is also good to to have beer festivals yearly but we need more venue since there should be a lot all over the Metro. That is why Globe Circuit Events Ground is hosting their first ever Brewfest.

There will be games like beerpong which I got to experience during the media launch, lots of food and of course; BEER! What makes this beer event unique is that they are serving craft beers. These are other beer brands that is not what you usually see in stores but just as good. These beers are only available in limited wine and beer stores. Some of it are local and some are foreign.

Globe Circuit Events Ground is an open area that is once part of the old Phil. Race Course that is now converted as the new entertainment center in Makati. The area itself can accommodate 10,000 people.

There is also a variety of music genre that will be performed conforming to the different taste in music. The festivities starts at 5PM on October 17 (Saturday). Admission per head cost P1,000 (P800 consumable using a prepaid tap card)

If you are having a group of 8 attending, you can have your own table for only P15,000 with 8 prepaid tap cards (P800 each card). Be part of the first Brewfest. For more events updates, follow this blog and like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook. You may purchase your tickets at the Bottle Shop, or the Brewery or contact 0917-934-1402

Boodle Fight at Apag Marangle

Press release

Kapampangan food is one of the local cuisines here in the Philippines that is very much known to us. From its bold and savory dishes to its one of a kind dishes such as Camaru or crickets every Filipino is surely enamored by it.

And Apag Marangle will surely tickle your taste buds without traveling outside of Manila for it! Located at themetro’s business hub – Makati city, they offer great deals good for the whole family.

You can choose from the variety of boodle fights which is great for 5-6 people And prices would start at 1,100 pesos. They have four offerings which are:

ASIKAN (Bukid) (1,100 php)

Ensaladang Paco (Fiddle head fern salad with salted eggs and special apag marangle dressing)

Sale Manuk (Chicken and lemon grass soup with corn)

Ningnang Liemp (Broiled pork belly)

Pritung Tilapia(Fried Tilapia)

Plain Rice

Nasing Marangle (Apag Marangle’s version of paella)

DAYAT MALAT (Dagat) (1,700php)

Ensaladang Manggang Bubot(Green Mango Salad)

Sigang Paro King Sampalok(Shrimp cooked in fresh tamarind juice)

Pritong Bangus (Fried Milkfish)

Minantikilyang Ema(Buttered Crab)

Ningnang Pusit (Broiled squid stuffed with herbs, tomato and onions)

Tabang Talangka Rice (Crab paste rice)

Plain Rice

MANANGU (Biyahero) (1,600 php)

Ensaladang Ampalaya (Bitter Melon Salad)

Balatung (Mongo beans soup with peeled shrimps)

Pelutungan Manuk (Fried Chicken)

Pepalasing Paro (Drunken Shrimps)

Sisig

Nasing Marangle(Apag Marangle’s version of paella)

Plain Rice

KABALENAN (Bayan) (1,500php)

Chicharong Bulaklak

Suam Mais (Corn soup in clay pot)

Humba (Pork belly braised in yellow bean paste)

Kare-Kare (Filipino stew of beef oxtail and tripe on a creamy peanut sauce)

Chicken Barbeque

Plain Rice

Garlic Rice

So make sure to head over at Apag Marangle with your friends and family and have a boodle fun time! 

Japanese Fine Dining with style at Rosanjin

Of all the Asian dishes, I love Japanese food for it's preparation and presentation.You got to admit that preparing the dishes the Japanese way is meticulously systematic as if these are art form. But there is one Japanese restaurant that is very unique in their presentation and preparation in their dishes.

Rosanjin is located at the third level of  SM Megamall Building B in their new Fashion  Hall I got a teaser on how it was prepared when a long-time friend invited me for lunch. What make Rosanjin unique is their traditional art of cooking Tobanyaki and Kaminabe.

Traditional tobanyaki cooking

Tobanyaki and Kaminabe uses small burners that is served at your table and being cooked right before you. If you are familiar with aroma therapy that uses burners, the apparatus is quite similar. "Toban" is an art of cooking using earthenware. On the other hand, what intrigues me is the Kaminabe which uses Japanese paper as pot and it doesn't burn. I will explain later why the paper does not burned.

The food tasting started with selected Tobanyaki dishes. Although it is precooked, it only takes at least 7 minutes to fully cooked depending on the dish. What's cool about Tobanyaki and Kaminabe is that it makes your food warm while you are still eating it.

The Tobanyaki and Kaminabe has lots of options in cooking dishes. The Tobanyaki can also grill and the Kaminabe can also cook soup dishes. During the food sampling, I got to try the Australian Rib Steak from the Tobanyaki. The meat is sliced in squares and it doesn't stick to the pan so it won't be difficult to pick when using chopsticks.

Traditional kaminabi

For the Kaminabe, the Sukiyaki became my instant favorite. The soup is rich in flavor added with mushrooms, bacon and vegetables and the paper is still holding the soup even while it's still burning. Probably the only thing that can destroy the Japanese paper when you accidentally punctured it with your chopsticks.

Besides the main course dishes, they also traditional Japanese dishes like the maki. If you think that they are only good with their dishes, you haven't tasted their ice cream. One of the flavors is actual red beans that you you can immediately identify the taste. Rosanjin also has Green Tea Pudding topped with red beans.

You can also add rice for only 80 Pesos per serving but you can eat unlimited rice for 100 Pesos.  The kaminabe and tobanyaki prices depends on the dish. Now for the science behind Kaminabe. The ignition temperature of the paper is 300 degrees. The soup which is mostly composed of water absorbs the heat so the temperature of the paper will not increase more than 100 degrees Not only that, the paper absorbs the oil so you can be assured that its healthy to eat. Excelsior!

For more food tasting adventures, follow this blog and like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.

Dine Like Royalty at Chateau Hestia

In one of my previous post, I featured the accommodations at Chateau Hestia at my flagship blog. Now, I will feature the food. As mentioned previously, Chateau is French for castle and Hestia is the Greek goddess.

Upon arrival at their restaurant, we were welcomed by Chef Natalie Moran. I can describe Chateau Hestia's restaurant has a mix of European and Asian theme. After introductions, we settled for our dinner. What we're having for dinner is their three-course meal and the assortment of bread with malunggay pesto while waiting for the first course.

The three-course meal includes, soup, the main course, dessert including a glass of wine for only P850.00. This is already fixed for the entire month. On the following month they change their menu. You have the option to order foreign cheese for appetizers that will suit the bread. The cheese is not heavy but the bread is so I suggest not consuming much bread so you will enjoy savoring the meals.

 

Chef Nat orienting us about the dishes

The first course is the squash soup. You may find squash as a common soup but it is served purely squash that made it thick and rich in flavor and it also goes well with the bread. For the main course, there are two preferences or choices. The choices were Braised lamb ravioli and Australian flank steak. I guarantee that it is a mouthful because I considered the main course as heavy dish. I tried the Australian flaunt steak. I guarantee it's a mouthful even without the rice.

The course ended with Apple Streudel for dessert. I like the atmosphere of the restaurant and the place is like secluded. If you ask me, this is the best place to bring your dinner date. It has more privacy than any restaurant located in a mall or any establishment.

Dining in Chateau Hestia does is not only stylish but also educational. They  also have local and foreign beer and and has different types of wine that will suit your taste. If you like to experience a traditional European pub or tavern, Chateau Hestia also has a bar. They also have a store if you only wish to buy beer or wine that you can bring at your room if you are a guest.

For more of my foodie adventures, follow this blog and like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook. Next, I will feature my breakfast and lunch meals, the tour in the farms and how I made my own pizza.

Hermanos Taco Shop: Cross-cultural Gastronomic Experience Part 2

After the introduction I made in my last post, here's the best part: FOOD TASTING! Upon arrival, I was given a Mexican signature drink Horchata. At my first sip, I immediately savored the drink because the cinnamon was very distinct that you hardly can ignore the taste. It is not everyday that you can drink cinnamon. Usually, it just provides the aroma.in the drink.

Along with horchata, we were served with an authentic Mexican nacho. You may have tried nacho in bars and grills but what makes an authentic nacho is the guacamole. Guacamole is only avocado that makes it more appetizing. You got to appreciate the preparation because the guacamole is not easy to make.

Nachos

The nacho is truly a heavy snack because of the beefy filling. If you don't find it heavy yet, then the Chicken Quesadilla will which is the next course. Quesadilla is like a flat meat pie similar to pizza slices but smaller. Unlike pizza, the  chicken quesadilla is not baked just like the unleavened bread in the Mediterranean.

Chicken Quesadilla

Eating at Hermanos made me realize that there are more Mexican food besides taco and quesadilla. The other way to enjoy taco is the Rolled Taco. It may look like a Pinoy lumpia but it will give you a spicy kick once you taste it.

Rolled Tacos

What I didn't expect from A Mexican taco is the Fish Taco. I never thought fish can make a good taco out of it.It does not have an aftertaste and it has a more appealing look. The Fish Taco is also Hermanos' bestseller.

Fish Taco

What's Mexican food without churros. Instead of chocolate. The churros served with caramel for dipping which is I prefer instead of the usual chocolate. Tried their churros without dipping and it still taste good.

Churros

Hermanos also serve imported Mexican beer. You can be assured that the food served fresh especially since they make their salsa sauce everyday. As for authenticity, they even have to import ingredients from Mexico since there is no alternate ingredients here. 

Hermanos Taco House continues to expand and is open for franchise. Watch out as they will soon open in Makati and also has a spot inside Ateneo campus. Hermanos was nominated many times and is listed one of the top ten Mexican restaurants by Manila's Best. For more mouth-watering cravings, just follow this blog and like L.E.N.S.blogs for more updates.

Hermanos Taco Shop: Cross-cultural Gastronomic Experience Part 1

Mexico and the Philippines have some things in common. Both were a former colony of Spain which is why two countries can relate even despite living in different time zones. Also, most Filipinos are fascinated with Mexican soap opera which is why we even dubbed it in Filipino or do a Filipino production of it.

But there is another thing in common with them. We both have love for food. Both have meals eaten with rice but the only thing that made Mexican food unique is their taco. Although taco is already common to Filipinos that you can even buy the basic ingredients in the supermarket but not all can copy the way Mexicans make their tacos.

Which led me to Hermanos Taco House in New Manila, Quezon City not far from Greenhills. When I arrive there, I never expected the place to be so simple but do not be fooled by outside appearance once the food is served at your table.

Hermanos is a Spanish word for brothers and not named after a person. An idea came from owner Ms. Cathy Mora's brother which is very suited since it is a family business. San Diego, California has big population of Mexican and Filipino community and for Ms. Cathy, she got the best of both cultures because she has a Mexican stepfather who also cooks authentic Mexican dishes.

It opened in New Manila and it's been in operation for five years now that it extended the family business in Alabang operated by Ms. Cathy's sister. The flagship branch location is not a hindrance to Manila, San Juan, and Quezon City patrons but it also got patrons coming all the way from Makati just for the tacos. Why open a Mexican food business? Ms. Cathy simply said, "Because we love to eat and we love to cook."

Will continue the food tasting on my next post but will leave you first this teaser photo that will leave you craving for now. Like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook to get updated on my next post.

An Artsy Summer for Kids at the Slappy Cakes Summer Camp

Press release

Slappy Cakes, the popular international all-day breakfast joint originating from Portland, Oregon, recently had its first ever Slappy Cakes Summer Camp for kids interested in DIY pancake design and various arts and crafts. The three-day art workshop for kids aged five to 12 years old was held at the SM Aura, SM North Edsa The Block, and Eastwood branches. By providing art-filled activities and a venue to meet new friends, this was Slappy Cakes’ way of making summer more fun for kids.

“Slappy Cakes Summer Camp was started to make kids’ summers more fulfilling and enjoyable. Parents and their kids are always finding new ways to spend their summers, and this is a great way to learn something new while still having fun,” said Karen Caballero, General Manager of Slappy Cakes.

Exclusive to this camp were different colored pancake batters that were especially made for the kids to enjoy and play with. On the first day of the workshop, the youngsters were given Slappy Cakes aprons and toques which they were allowed to design and doodle on. They were also taught how to make basic shapes and abstract art with the pancake batters. On the second day, they were shown how to make furry and fluffy dogs out of yarn or cotton. Pancake dog counterparts and colorful fishes were also taught, then the kids had the freedom to make any other animal they wanted with the batters. On the third and last day, they were tasked to make thank you cards for their parents and taught how to make pancakes with human faces. The camp also promoted teamwork with a pancake art contest wherein the kids were grouped and had to work together to showcase what they have learned. At the end of the camp, all the campers were given certificates of participation for being part of the workshop.

The Slappy Cakes Summer Camp will now be done annually, so kids have another chance to join next year to have a fun and artsy experience.

ADAM RICHMAN IS BACK, SCOURING THE U.S. FOR OFF-MENU DISHES IN MAN FINDS FOOD

Press release

Adam Richman continues his culinary adventures in TLC’s brand new series, MAN FINDS FOOD. He embarks on a new quest to uncover the most unexpected and delicious treasures in towns across the U.S. Discover some truly surprising must-eats that only those in-the-know would be able to find in MAN FINDS FOOD, premiering June 8 at 9:30 PM on TLC.

From a Thai joint in Los Angeles that serves a spicy off-menu burger he can only describe as “life-changing”, to one of the best Pakistani restaurants in Milwaukee hidden in an unassuming office building, Adam takes viewers all over the U.S. as he samples the country’s amazing food creations. These tantalising treasures are sometimes found in towns not known for that particular dish – or for food in general.

Occasionally nestled in locations that are nearly impossible to find, Adam and his crew will hunt down and reveal these classified creations one by one. In Chinatown, he learns about a sandwich so secret you need to be one of the first five to order it. In a neighbourhood known as Kaimuki, he sees how a once-illegal Hawaiian food is specially prepared by pounding it with a pestle. And he makes some mouthwatering finds in the randomest of places, such as a bowling alley – that happens to serve full-broiled chicken, which Adam has proclaimed as his favourite.

Along the way, Adam talks to the creators of these dishes and connects with the locals to find out about their favourite food joints and what other scrumptious secrets the towns might be harbouring.

Tune in as each episode builds up to reveal the most outlandish, delicious, off-the-menu creations.

Out-of-town Dining Experience of Apag Marangle is now in Makati

Pampanga is not just known for its traditional Christmas lanterns or parol in Tagalog, but also of delicious home-made cooking. My brother-in-law is Pampangan and cooks gastronomically delicious dishes. I also used to buy dishes at a nearby residence owned by a Pampangan who cooks dishes at his driveway which entices everyone who passes by.

Makati is now given the honor to be the first in the Metro to experience Pampangan cooking the Apag Marangle way. When I told my brother-in-law and my sister that I am going to attend a food tasting event at Apag Marangle, they were already familiar with the establishment and told me the meaning of the name which really meant "eating from earth's bounty". They told me that it is similar to dampa food establishments and that you can have your newly caught hito (catfish) cooked.

The first branch is located in Bacolor, Pampanga where you can enjoy the fishing hobby and dine in what you caught at the nearby river at the restaurant. The dining areas itself are also a nipa huts at the river shore. In Makati, you can feel that you part of the restaurant in Pampanga was brought in the Park Square branch upon entering. The seats are really made of bamboo and in an elevated area; the whole backdraft of the wall is a photo of what the establishment look like back in Pampanga. If you are observant enough, the elevated area has an artificial pond with live catfish in it.

I like how it presented itself from the moment you wash your hand in their clay jars with faucets. You really felt that you are out of town. If the atmosphere is not enticing enough, wait till you order your food. The menu is presented itself shaped like a leaf that is the same length of one of their tables. The names of the dishes are in Pampangan dialect but the descriptions are in English. Apag Marangle promotes the traditional way of Pinoy eating with only your bare hands with your dishes at the banana leaf commonly called a boodle fight. Not only that boodle fight is fun, it also promotes fellowship. The boodle fight is only optional.

Fried caramu

Although the establishment serves different cola drinks, I advise to try the pandan water. Not only that it is refreshing, it is much healthier. They also used honey to sweeten its taste instead of sugar which is way better. Pampanga is not only known for cooking dishes, they also cook exotic food. One of their delicatessens is crickets or caramu in Pampangan. If you are in Pampanga, it is also a must to eat frogs which actually taste like chicken. Although I ate fried caramu, there are other options for them to cook it. The reason why crickets and frogs are tasty because of the farming environment. Crickets eat farm crops that adds flavor.

Corn soup

If you like native soup dishes, I recommend the Corn Soup and the Chicken In Lemon Grass Soup with Corn. The lemon grass is actually delicious as it adds flavor. The kind of corn they used for the Corn Soup are the white corn which makes the soup thick. For the appetizers and snacks, I recommend Okwi(fried papaya-cassava fritters) and their signature pansit. I got to admit their pansit is quite heavy for a merienda. For their grilled dishes, I recommend the squid, barbecue and the catfish. In addition to the caramu and frog, chicharon bulaklak, sizzling sisig, sizzling balut and the liempo, these are also good beer matches.

Boodle fight is on

When we had a boodle fight, we were having good laughs to see who really knows how to eat with their hands. If you are a full-blooded Filipino, it will be easy. Although Apag Marangle serves beer, it is still a wholesome environment. The Makati branch is a franchise but Apag Marangle owners still oversees the operation to maintain its quality as it was enjoyed in Bacolor. The Makati branch is located at Park Square near SM Makati, Dusit Hotel and Glorietta 1. For more boodle fights, follow this blog and like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.

Tour At Gourmet Farms

I first knew about Gourmet Farms when I got to try their samples of lettuce chips and pesto chips during an intermission of a show at CCP. I also got to try their brewed coffee. Since then, these chips became my favorite snacks.

Signature Lemonade

But I never realized that one day I will be able to visit their farm where they grew my favorite chips and more at Silang, Cavite. Not far from Tagaytay's intersection, Gourmet Farms is located on the left side of Aguinaldo Road if you're coming from Manila.

Organic chips and dips for sample tasting.

Upon arrival, we were welcomed with a fresh drink of signature lemonade which is just I need because of the summer heat we are now having back in Manila. In addition of the lemonade, we got to sample the chips with different dips and sauces for our pleasure just like what I had at CCP.

During the tour, I never expected that Gourmet Farms also housed a retreat facility which I will feature in my lifestyle blog. Gourmet farming is something new to most since most are not used to. In Gourmet Farms, even the insect repellent are organic. Just how organic these plants are. Some are even edible enough that you can just eat it fresh from the ground.

Gourmet Farms' homegrown vegetables

The vegetables grown here are guaranteed clean you need not clean it since they don't advise washing it again at home because you don't know what chemicals in the water in your household has. Gourmet Farms's organic lifestyle may require more work but it just shows that nothing is wasted in farming and everything in the farm is maximized.

On my next blog post, I will feature the dishes we had for lunch. For more food tasting, follow W.H.A.T. Food Blogs and like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.

Celebrate your Anyversary at Karnitas Korner

Kapitolyo in Pasig not far from the Mandaluyong boundary. From what I heard, it is now becoming the next hangout destination in the area. But in a residential area, you won't imagine that there is another option for a hangout.

I find the food there unique because of the presentation but it is also nothing new. It has influences from Spanish dishes. You can choose from their rice meals, pasta or sandwiches. Whatever you choose, I guarantee it's a gastronomic and heavy meal experience.

Porchetta carbonara

For their drinks, you have the choice of house blend tea, dalandan and green tea/lychee which is my recommendation. Even though it has a small capacity, the atmosphere is looks cozy and you got to appreciate the art presented in the interior.

Whatever the occasion under the sun, you can just have your anyversary it there at Karnitas Korner. For more foodie establishment features, follow this blog and like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.

BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT WITH AQUABEST

Press release

With the mercury continuing to rise in recent weeks, everyone has sought ways to cool down and beat the heat. So, whether you're spending your vacation in the beach and biking or just doing more outdoor activities it's always a good idea to stay hydrated.

1)     Drink lots of water: The obvious choice for staying hydrated is drinking water and lots of it.  You can never have enough water on hand, and for days at the beach, freeze water bottles the night before so they can stay cold throughout the next day. Drinking plenty of water will help keep your energy up, and make your skin glow. Aquabest is processed using Grander Technology that rejuvenates water making it more effective at keeping you hydrated.

2)     Popsicles and ice candy can be an effective thirst quencher and cooler for a hot summer day, and they don't just have to be for kids. Making your own popsicles is fun to do, and you are in control of what goes in them. You can use Aquabest to blend fruits and sweeteners, pour them on ice trays and stick a toothpick and freeze to make your own healthy popsicle.

3)     Sport and energy drinks are loaded with electrolytes needed on a hot summer day when you exert energy than normal. When your body is craving hydration, nothing tastes better than a sports drink as it slides down your throat to replenish your body. Just as effective as sports drinks is Aquabest processed using Grander Technology that improves on waters hydrating properties without any additives.

4)     Make sure you stay hydrated while in the pool or beach. Even though you are surrounded by water, you are using a lot of energy and water staying afloat and splashing around. Remember to bring along drinking water or you can enjoy some popsicle treats or juice boxes during the day.

Taco Bell Reopens With A New Campaign

When I am in either Cubao or North EDSA, I always go to Taco Bell when I eat out because it is the only part of the Metro where its located. Now, they are changing their image of their flagship branch at Gateway as well as a new campaign slogan.

I ordered a meal for myself to find out if there are any changes in their operation. Even though it was not long for the preparation since it is still a fast food store, I am entertained that you can now see them preparing the food while waiting to be called. This way, you can be assured that they are served fresh and guaranteed that they are preparing it the right way.

The campaign slogan is LIVE MAS as in MORE. It is now the campaign used among branches across the world. It has a positive outlook. It just means MAS flavor, MAS heart meaning Taco Bell has heart in everything they do and MAS value or more value to assure the customers that they got their money's worth.

My heavy combo meal

Besides their new campaign, the eating area also has a new look. Besides the usual tacos and burritos, they have new variety of meal combos of picadillas, rice meals and their churros. But I can never forget their taco sauce which is at one time serves in different colorful sachets and tag line. They still do it in U.S. but it will take long to ship them here.

For more food trips, follow this blog and like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.

Lenten Suggestions from Slappy Cakes

It's the season of Lent for Christianity and since the Philippines has large population of Roman Catholics, the practice of penitence is still common to most Filipinos. Starting Ash Wednesday, Catholics don't eat pork until Easter Sunday which total of 40 days.

Slappy Cakes does not only serve pancakes. They also have variety selections. Here are some non-pork suggestions from Slappy Cakes.

For appetizers, I suggest the Fish Bites. For an appetizer, it is quite heavy I wouldn't mind to have it as a heavy snack. It also has potato bites and a yummy tartar sauce.

For heavy meals, Slappy Cakes offers local dish bangus with eggs and fried rice. If you are a pasta lover, there's the pesto topped with tomatoes with bread. Also ideal for vegetarians. Lastly, my favorite, the Salmon Benedict. Don't be fooled by what it looked because it is really heavy. It is based with pancake, salmon and with egg on top. It comes with two servings with potato bites on the side.

These meals are part of the regular menu of Slappy Cakes. These are available all year round and not for the season for Lent but also ideal for the Muslims and the Jews who don't eat pork. These selections are also for the health buffs.

I can assure you that even though it is not pork meat, it will give you a gastronomic experience. For more food trips, follow this blog and like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.

Highlights From The Ajinomoto® Umami Culinary Challenge 2015

I've been covering this yearly event for the past 2 years. For the third time, it was different this year. It was intended to bring out the best in the culinary schools or universities in a cooking competition. Now, it also gave chance to carinderia operators to join not to compete but to be educated.It also gives information how to make your business earn that won't cost much.

There are 54 schools competing and another challenge was given to the students. It also became an inter-island challenge where the best of the three islands: Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao will determine the best of the best the country has to offer.

There are still things that never change. The mouth-watering dishes with different and creative presentations. I also see a friend of mine who teaches in one of the competing schools presented his own umami dish.

I will feature the winning recipes in my next blog post. Just follow this blog to be updated ahead. Also, like the L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.