I’ve been to different restaurants trying out new dishes I missed during the pandemic. Many of them are amazing, but none entered my food and restaurant review section. Shame! That’s just pure laziness and it’s not a part of me. So here I am: having my very first restaurant review in months.

First up, La Mija Spanish Italian Restaurant and Cafe

True to its name, the La Mija Spanish Italian Restaurant and Cafe flaunts a fusion of Italian and Spanish cuisine. However, it is also adjusted with twisted Pinoy foods. I can say, the Spanish department was not hard to identify since Pinoy cuisine is heavily influenced by the Spaniards.

The restaurant is located in the heart of Regalado Avenue, just a few steps from FEU Hospital and a jeepney ride from the buzzy Commonwealth Avenue. The adjective “attractive”, I can say, is an understatement. In fact, the facade is so beautiful, I almost hesitated many times to enter. The moment I saw it, I knew I need to break the bank.

La Mija, a vibrant place

Upon entering, one of the crew opened the door, greeted me, and handed me the menu. Yes, the door was locked. The menu was gigantic for a tiny place, which led me to a question — can they manage that huge list?

The menu was worn out. They only updated that list by writing manually while some pages were already water-damaged. With all due sincerity, a restaurant that charges such prices should at least give a clean and good-looking menu because re-printing them won’t cost too much.  For me, regularly updating the menu is a sign that a certain establishment is serious about providing the best dining experience.

The place, on the other hand, is the total opposite of the menu. Though it’s small, it’s pleasing and will give you that cool and calm vibe. Empty wine bottles are stored near the ceiling blocking some of the lights that gave this wonderful dim appeal. A cork holder is situated like a photo album, giving hints that people love to order wines from the menu.

The owners are obviously The Beatles fans because several musical records are also boasted. I also love The Beatles because my name was taken from one of the members.

The chairs and tables look like those from diners in 80s movies. They were cushioned and far enough from each other allowing privacy among diners.

The Foods

I started writing for this review about weeks ago, but I realized that I should require at least three dishes before publishing. So, I went back to the place to observe and try more foods on the menu.

Paella Marinara

I’m a huge fan of paella, so it’s the first thing I checked. It was surprising that despite its popularity, La Mija only offers three variations. For me, the best choice in the paella section is the Paella Marinara. It is Spanish rice cooked with chicken and fresh seafood topped with slices of hard-boiled egg.

Read: Tuyo Spaghetti Recipe

Served in an awesome casserole along with a slice of lemon, the Paella Marinara is a total hit. The rice was cooked to perfection while the chicken and seafood flavors mixed harmoniously and created this wonderful party in my mouth. The dash of lemon added this awesome kick that kept me digging into my plate. I was never a fan of the burnt part of any paella, though.

Rating:

Baby Back Ribs

I always have had this love-and-hate relationship with restaurant baby back ribs. For me, they are all-or-nothing dishes. They can either make or break your dining experience.

I’m so happy I decided to order La Mija’s Baby Back Ribs because they certainly met my dream ribs. The meat is super tender to the point that it falls off the bones. The so-called “signature sauce,” on the other hand, is not too sweet and just enough to add a certain flavor without masking the beefy taste. On the side are slices of baked potatoes, which are tasty as well. I love that the skin is still intact.

Though it’s pricey, allow me to say that La Mija’s Baby Back Ribs are worth it.

Rating:

Seafood Marinara Pasta

To be honest, browsing through the pasta section is not fun at all. Why? Because there’s no spaghetti and it’s like, what? An Italian restaurant that doesn’t serve spaghetti?

An Italian restaurant experience can never be called a true experience if you didn’t try a pasta dish. So, I ordered the seafood marinara pasta, which is a fettuccine flavored with tomato sauce and seafood. It is topped with powdered parmesan cheese and garlic bread on the side.

The seafood marinara pasta is also good. I love the tangy flavor brought by the fresh tomatoes while the seafood, though a little overcooked, added a more delightful experience. The garlic bread is amazing and still hot when served. The powdered parmesan cheese is just ok.

Rating:

The Two-Way Pizza

There are lots of pizzas on the menu, but to be honest, they are expensive. The good thing is that there’s an offer called “the two-way pizza” that will allow you to taste two variants in one. The price will base on what is the more expensive.

I ordered the Funghi Salsiccia E Cipolla, which is a combination of mozzarella, Italian sausage, mushroom, and red onion. Along with it is the Capricciosa, which combines mozzarella, Italian salami, olives, mushroom, and onion.

The pizza is quite a good deal because it is served right from the over while the ingredients are obviously fresh. I also love it a little bland, which gave me the opportunity to adjust the salt based on my preference. However, the crust is too thin to the point it’s already crunchy.

I only consumed two slices and asked if they can pack them for take-out. I was surprised that they just stuffed the precious pizza in aluminum foil even overlapping them. It’s just clumsy and careless, stating the fact that pizzas can make you full easily and most of the time, taken out. It would be perfectly fine for me to pay extra for a box so I can take home my pizza properly.

Rating:

Panna Cotta Caramello

Of course, I need to try La Mija desserts. Unfortunately, on two occasions (I visited thrice), the only available is the Panna Cotta Caramello, which, according to the menu is made from Italian cream and served with drizzles of caramel.

The panna cotta is amazing — it was creamy and not too sweet. The texture also adds an amazing experience because it melts in your mouth. The caramel also brings this kick, though I’m pretty much okay with the panna cotta itself.

One thing I notice is that when served, the dessert missed out on some of its parts, which triggered my OCD. Though I didn’t return it because the server might be charged for it, I think customers deserve better. I think the one who prepared it rushed in removing it from the mold. Dipping the mold in hot water for a few minutes would slide the panna cotta smoothly. Or maybe, stop using that mold.

Rating:

Strawberry Cheese Cake (Unpictured)

I ordered this during my first visit but I was not able to take picture of it because they gave me the option to just serve it after I finish the main course. I agreed. However, the heavy rain is about to start so I just asked them to pack for me to enjoy it when I’m about to go back home.

The cheesecake is ok, it’s tangy and fresh. The best this is that it’s not that sweet. The sugar didn’t overpower the flavor of the cream cheese, which is good for me. The thing is it’s gelatinous, which I’m not a fan of.

Rating:

Diner’s Commentaries

I’m just a little uncomfortable with the loud joking inside the kitchen and it happened to me twice. On two occasions, I went there with the doors locked, which may give the impression that the store is not open.

I also suggest that since La Mija offers a little higher prices, how about some complimentary food like bread or iced tea? I’m not a freeloader but if there’s free food, I used to forget about the price and I’m always encouraged to go back to the place.

Overall, it’s a great experience

La Mija is a place to unwind and enjoy a delicious meal. Though the prices are a little higher, it’s not a problem for me because the foods are amazing. Hey, I work hard for my money and I think it’s quite ok to spend it on food. The crews are awesome as well. One server answered my question satisfactorily, making me assume that they are well-trained.

Do I recommend La Mija, of course!

How about you, guys? Have you ever experienced dining in La Mija? Please let me know your thoughts. Just in case you haven’t, you can visit them along Regalado Avenue. You can also check La Mija Facebook Page for updates and promotions.

The post La Mija Spanish Italian Restaurant and Cafe Review appeared first on Food Citations.

I attended a meeting somewhere in Ortigas and I was mortified. The decisions and future plans, plus an energy quagmire for me because it was one rainy late afternoon and I barely slept at all last night.

I want to drag myself outside. I’d been thinking on how to escape from the meeting room – what a nightmare huh. But they gave me an opportunity to be flee before I pass out.

I want to take a walk and grab some coffee and probably some sweets to perk-me-up. Since I was in Ortigas, so why not grabbing some brewed coffee in one of the artisan coffee shop nearby?

The Craft Coffee Revolution

While having a long rainy afternoon walk to the store, I’ve been imagining that I’m already sniffing before sipping my favorite brewed coffee haha. As a coffee lover, you know, the feel of smelling it first how strong your cup of coffee is. I’ve finally set my foot in Podium. I hurriedly went upstairs to Craft Coffee Revolution.

Craft Coffee Revolution which was formerly the Craft Coffee Workshop in 66 Broadway Avenue, corner E. Rodriguez Kristong Hari, Quezon City. For an art lover, this is a must-visit as they also have workshops here.

The Services

Now, the company already has three branches including their Podium Branch. You may find it in 2/F The Podium Mall. You may ask their well-trained baristas to have your coffee craft, yeah leave it to them if you are too sick and tired of your everyday cappuccinos, lattes, mochas or the likes you may also choose from their “brew bar” menu if you want something new or you are adventurous.

Read: Food Find: Roasted Hazel Nut Coffee from Malaysia

While chitchatting with their barista about what I’ve picked on their “brew bar menu” I was also busy picking some sweet and upon looking with their cakes display, this one classic cake that caught my attention.

In brew bar menu I choose the “choose your origin” section. I ordered Nicaragua Finca El and Bacon Chocolate Cake. Nicaragua Finca El (in my own understanding the meaning of Nicaragua Finca El is from the farm of Nicaragua) Nicaragua is in Central America.

Nicaragua Finca El

I want mine to brew in cold and with lower acidity. However, the barista told me that the beans are well balanced — mild body and mild acidity. They still my request, though. While cupping (sipping and sniffing), I could still taste the kick of the caffeine, it was so strong but I could manage it without sugar. True, it has a mid-intense acid with strong sweetness. The aroma? It’s still there. The fruity flavor remains in my mouth after swallowing in every sip but I couldn’t taste the flavors coming from the roasted beans (this is what I like about the Alamid coffee/ Philippine Civet Cat Coffee, that you could taste the freshly roasted beans).

Nicaragua Finca El is worth P100+ per cup. As a coffee junkie, the price is still worth it and will definitely try all their coffee.

Bacon Chocolate Cake

It may sound weird and sinful (haha) but if you are looking for something a little different and indulgent, try the Bacon Chocolate Cake. The salty and sweet combination of it is perfectly well for my mood at that time. I can’t stop picking the bacon strips, because I just love the texture of the cake and the chocolate frosting.

Bacon Chocolate Cake is worthy. Not too good for people who are on a diet.

The Craft Coffee Revolution at the Podium is one heck of a coffee shop. The prices are ok and it’s worth it.

This is a re-posted archived article.

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I have been to Gayuma ni Maria back when I was in college and never had a chance to try it again. It is located in #123 V Luna Extension Sikatuna Village, Quezon City (Near Maginhawa).

There was one time I felt the need of love from someone I can never have, I was feeling lonely. I shared my innermost feelings with my cousins at that time because I knew that they could help me ease my grief and get over it.

My cousins suggested that I need to give myself a treat by comforting my stomach first, the best way to dwell over the things, and deal with the pain. Ya, we never seem to talk about anything so serious but for sure thing they will treat me to dinner what a hate and love relationship we have.

We made our reservation (cause it was Friday night and payday) in Gayuma ni Maria for dinner. I think it’s a perfect place for a broken-hearted like me.

Read: Samgyupsalamat Don Antonio Review

I let them choose what to eat because if I will be the one to pick over the Gayuma ni Maria’s menu it will be horrible. If it’s me, I will choose everything.

The Appetizers

“Tuliro:” Nachos and lettuce topped with meat and fresh fruits with sour cream and cheese sauce. Unfortunately, they served everything. In short, they forgot about our nachos. So we canceled it.

The Mains

“Cuz I Care:” Bangus kare-kare. Fried bangus (milkfish) with peanut sauce, shrimps and veggies, and their specialty bagoong (shrimp paste). We thought that it was just a peanut sauce and a fried bangus on top but it comes with some shrimps. It was just fine. I just love the bagoong and how were the veggies cooked. The price is reasonable if they will give justice to why its Bangus Kare-kare – not just because it comes with the bangus on top, it should be fish-based in a kare-kare and it would be great if they will blend more peanuts.

“Secret Lovers:” Gayumatized beef kaldereta with grilled vegetables. But I was not gayumatized, I haven’t heard my cousins about the kaldereta, it was too sweet, and the grilled vegetables, it was all carrots.

“Hotsie:” Hot and naughty shrimp pasta with garlic pandesal toast. It was good. It’s Maica’s favorite; she loves how spicy it was, but I don’t like the oil they used. The price, on the other hand, is reasonable the serving is big and they’re pretty generous with the shrimps.

The Desserts

“Beats Sex Anyday:” You be the Judge! Rich chocolate cake mercilessly topped with butterscotch, cream and chocolate bits. My cousins Maica and Yeye love the sweetness of the cake but for me it was just a classic chocolate cake, I don’t even like the texture. I didn’t even tasted the butterscotch, and even the cream, it doesn’t comes with the chocolate bits. I’m so confused it feels like we ordered chocolate cake.

“Pa Cute:” Mango cheesecake. I and Mark love their cheesecake, I love the mango on top, but for me its too pricey, its not reasonable.

I could come up our orders in a sentence, “cos I care, tuliro ako sa hotsie na secret lovers na ito na they beats sex anyday masyado kasi silang pa cute.”

My cousins don’t like the place, but for me its perfect. This features a rustic vintage house with a creepy smell. We’re glad that the bill doesn’t comes with a service charge because we’re not happy with the service.

It is time for me to sum up, my cousins and I still enjoyed our dining experienced in Gayuma ni Maria, notwithstanding, the poor service. And maybe because It was new to them. We went home having happy tummies. They said, they are satisfied with what they have eaten there and I am happy for them. I don’t feel lost and empty anymore because they made me feel I am loved.

This is an archived post.

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Vikings is probably one of the most popular eat-all-you-can restaurants in the country with a dozen branches nationwide. Just recently, I and my friends dined in the Vikings Marikina.

Vikings Marikina: Where to Find?

The Vikings Marikina is located on the 2nd Floor, SM City Kalumpang, Marikina City. We waited for at least an hour just to be seated, which is proof that the place is blockbuster.

The area is rectangular and from the entrance’s view, the chairs and table are located on the left while the foods and drinks are located on the other side. The desserts are the first things you’ll notice followed by the drinks and the savory dishes.

The receptionist asked us to seat in the middle, which she said a table for four. It’s obvious that the place wants the guests to feel comfortable because the table provided can seat at least two more. I was impressed there are rooms for our bags and we can move our feet and legs freely.

The only comment I can say is the space between the chairs and tables. They are too far away from each other.

The overall exterior of the area is like those of Chinese restaurants where lanterns are all over the place. It’s quite homey.

The Food

I started my foodie adventure by walking around. My mouth watered as I went nearer to the tables for savory dishes. I have this urge to tasting everything.

I picked a piece of garlic bread and munch on it while walking around. As a fan of garlic bread, I love it. It’s appetizing. Then, I picked a piece of pizza and to be honest, it’s no different from the other pizzas that you can buy from fast-food chains.

My first plate contains another slice of pizza, wagyu beef, roasted turkey and some makis. The maki is amazing because the mango used is sour. Unfortunately, the wagyu beef and turkey failed to impress me. I’m looking for more flavors.

While eating, I saw that one of the kitchen staff dropped a bucket of crabs. People piled up like there’s a feeding program with the strongest and who have the longest arms win. I didn’t bother to brave the odds.

I also tried Chinese chicken, stir-fried noodles, and many more Chinese foods. They are all fantastic. The crab soup is too thick. There’s too much flour to the point that you can’t taste the crab anymore.

During my Labrador Stall adventure, I mentioned that I love oysters. I saw baked oysters and immediately picked four pieces. Though I prefer them pouched with just a piece lemon, I still love them. I actually returned to the table and picked some more.

We also had shabu-shabu and I’m glad my friend thought of it. You can just ask one of the personnel and they’ll prepare it for you.

The Drinks and Desserts

All of us tried four seasons. It’s impressive. When I finished my glass, I went back and tried the apple cinnamon. I only had a sip of it because I found it watery and I’m expecting this cinnamon kicks.

For the dessert, I tried frozen yogurt, flour-less cake, bread and butter cake and many more.

The frozen yogurt is still desirable. However, they should open the machine if it’s not yet ready. The flour-less cakes are superb. The bitter chocolate compliments the moist cake well.

The Coffee

None of us try alcoholic beverages. I don’t like to travel alone tipsy. So, I thought of a better idea… Coffee!

The coffee makers of Vikings Marikina are the state-of-the-art slow makers. Just put the raw coffee beans and they will do the roasting and pounding before pressing it into the hot water to produce a perfectly-brewed caffeinated drink. They are amazing. My coffee is aromatic and flavorful. It has foam as well.

Vikings Marikina is Amazing

We went to the Vikings in SM Marikina on a weekday, so we only paid less than a thousand peso each. Allow me to say that the fee is ok if I’ll base it on the overall factors. The crews are well-trained, the place is good, and I’m satisfied with food.

A highly recommended restaurant. This is best for people who have the stomach of a Viking!

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Way back, when I am still working in this BPO company at Cybergate 3 in Mandaluyong, I can always see this castle from the MRT view and am really curious about it. When I checked the internet, it was the Chocolate Lover office where you can buy different baking products.

My blood rushed and I planned to go there.

The Place and Schedules

The Cubao Branch stands in 45 P.Tuazon Blvd. corner, C. Benites St. Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines. When you are in the MRT Cubao station, facing the Taft way, go down to your right (Edsa-Arayat).  You can ride the orange tricycle (BAPTODA) and just ask the driver to drop you off the Chocolate Lovers.

The branch is open from Mondays to Sundays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

I love the interiors and other designs of the place. As I mentioned earlier, you can see the view while riding the MRT and it’s super attractive. One of the craziest things that came into my mind is that the castle itself is edible.

Upon entering the branch you can smell the aroma of chocolate that will keep you relaxed. In terms of organizing the products, I can say that it’s fair enough. But, I would like to suggest to them that they should compile the consumable products separately to the tools and other non-consumables. I spent some time looking for the heart-shaped packaging materials because it was not in the aisle of the non-consumables. Later, found out that it was in the chocolate section.

You are not allowed to take pictures. But, I already took some before someone notified me, which prompted me to stop and apologize. I then talked to many people regarding taking pictures for my food blog, but there were no supervisors or officers in charge.

The Employees, Products and Prices

The employees are kind and approachable. They will answer your questions with smiles on their faces. Based on my point of view, most of them undergo training in baking so they can answer queries. Every Sunday, the employees told me that there were no owners or supervisors in the store. Only the stay-in personnel. So, if you have a business deal, make sure you will go on weekdays.

Read: How to Make Sour Cream?

If I will give them a grade in terms of training employees, I will give them 95% and a standing ovation. I was satisfied with the employees’ skills.

The blocks of chocolates are cheap. I saw one priced at P98.00 for half a kilo. You can even buy wholesale.

In terms of other baking products like confectionery, molds, baking tools they have higher prices. I was surprised that their chocolate toppings or what is called Jimmies (they call it vermicelli) are a little expensive compared to those sold in the market located near my place.

Services and Contacts

Aside from the supplies for retailers, bakers and wholesalers, they also have baking classes. I forgot to ask the employees about them, but I know they will teach you the proper way to melt chocolates and recipes for mouth-watering desserts. I even noticed a poster in the entrance showing a woman’s handbag made from chocolate. Truly, amazing!

More for information about their classes you can contact them through the following details:

• Telephone number – 8724-4964 / 8724-5752
• Website and email  – https://www.chocolatelover.ph/
• Facebook Fanpage – http://www.facebook.com/pages/Chocolate-Lover-Inc/137166662963232

For those who are far from the store of Chocolate Lover, you can order online for store-to-door delivery!

My Conclusion

When I got home, I showed the chocolates I bought to my sister and my nieces. They are astonished as well. When they found out that the prices are that low, they are more astonished. One of my nieces said the semi-sweet bar tastes like Goya.

Overall I love this place, there were products that you can’t find in groceries that are available in the store.

Am I recommending this place? Of course, 100%, especially if you are a baking enthusiast. Go to this place and you don’t want to go home anymore. Just be sure that you will set aside some of your money for your fare because you can’t help but to buy. Go to that place now and fall in love.

The post Chocolate Lover: The Best Baking Supplier In The Metro appeared first on Food Citations.

“When it’s a bite, don’t let the sun go down without seeing a doctor.” — a lesson I learned the hard way. I was bitten in the middle finger but opted to bring myself to the hospital the next day.

Things get messy to the point I need a hand specialist to check me. Though things are better now, I spent a hefty amount of money and the emotional stress is unimaginable. So guys, take it on me. If you suffered a wound caused by a human or animal bite, go to the nearest emergency room.

For the last day of my anti-rabies shot, I asked my best friend to come with me. She agreed and because we haven’t seen each other for months, we opted to dine in Samgyupsalamat at Don Antonio in Commonwealth Quezon City.

How to Go to Samgyupsalamat Don Antonio?

The Samgyupsalamat Don Anotonio is located at 54 Holy Spirit Drive, Brgy. Holy Spirit, Quezon City.

If you have a car, then locating it is never a problem. Waze can detect it.

If you are from Cubao, you ride a bus and ask the driver to drop you off Ever Gotesco Commonwealth. Then, use the footbridge and ride a tricycle, asking the driver to drop you off the Samgyupsalamat branch.

Samgyupsalamat Price, Place, Food

Samgyupsalamat Don Antonio is located on the second floor. At the door, one of the crew asked us how many are dining in and then politely requested to wait outside. In a few minutes, our table was already prepared.

The Samgyupsalamat price per head is P450. With that, you can enjoy unlimited meat, vegetables, ice tea, and many more.

Waiting for us were individual plates containing the dipping sauce, kimchi, marinated onion, lettuce, pickled radish, sweet potatoes, chap chae, and many more side dishes. A pitcher of ice tea and water were also there. Later, the crew asked us for our meat and you can order two types at the same time.

The plates of meat were served along with the bowls of rice.

The plate of dipping sauce includes sesame seeds oil, ssamjang, gochujang, and soy sauce. For me, the best is gochujang.

The chap chae is fabulous while pickled radish and marinated onion are all amazing. They are best for the lettuce wrap.

I’m not impressed with the kimchi, it appeared to me that they are not aged. I thought the cabbage we just soaked with the sauce. The sweet potatoes are common. I’m not a fan of melted cheese, so I didn’t touch it while the gravy is just ok.

While eating we were served with scrambled egg on top of a sizzling plate, which was for me, also ok — nothing impressive. Also with a bowl of soup, which I also didn’t like.

The ice tea tastes like those brands in packs and I’m not a fan.

The Verdict

I’ve been to many Samgyupsal branches in Metro Manila. Though Don Antonio branch is not best, it is still absolutely fantastic. The place is clean with chairs and tables are far away from each other, allowing the customers to have privacy and feel at home.

The employees are polite, prompt in taking orders, and friendly. We had meat leftovers and it was explained to us that there’s a fee for such calmly and respectfully. We opt to finish them.

Overall, the experience is great, and allow me to say that the P450 that you have to pay for each person is worthy.

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