Feature Friday: Chef Lau's Pugon Roasters

Feature Friday highlights businesses, people, fashion, and basically anything under the sun!

Stumbled upon this over-the-counter-sort-of-carenderia resto in a certain mall in Manila during our last visit.  I was enthralled by the long line of people so I guessed that there must be something good about the place.  Then I told Papa to take a seat as I joined the others in the queue.  Looking up at their menu, they mostly serve chicken in whatever way cooked but their specialty is the Pugon Roast Chicken, traditionally roasted in a pugon.  If anything is being cooked in a native way, then it must be really, really good!

Cheesy Chicken Croquetas, Chicken Livers, Spicy Wings, and Pugon Roast Chicken

When our orders came, that's the time I realized that this fast food restaurant is actually owned by Chef Lau.  Remember him?  He was one of the judges/coaches of Junior MasterChef Pinoy Edition way back 2011-2012.  So I got thrilled to finally have a taste of his very own Filipino recipes with a twist!

The Pugon Roast Chicken is super gingerly as I remember, giving it a hint of Chinesy taste.  It's crispy in the outside, juicy in the inside, and talagang nanunuot sa buto ang lasa.  My fave Chicken Livers has a unique taste too.  It is too flavorful with my also fave nacho/chili-con-carne taste.  Until now, I couldn't decipher what herb/spice is that.  Definitely it's not paprika, oregano, or curry.  My apology.  I really haven't discovered it yet.  Anyway, Papa had the fried bangus sinigang which surprised us 'coz there's really no sabaw in it.  Kaya nga, "fried".   Hehe....  For take-out, we had Cheesy Chicken Croquetas and Spicy Wings that tasted the same as the Chicken Livers' "unknown" herb/spice.  Mama and Auntie Lourding didn't like it as they also always do every time I cook Mexican-style spaghetti with the taco mix, nachos, and tacos.  They just can't understand the smell of it.  But for me, it's heaven to my sense of smell and taste buds!  So I gobbled up everything instead!  Haha!

I felt so lucky to have had discovered Chef Lau's Pugon Roasters!  It was not part of our itinerary and we discovered it by chance.  That's what you call "serendipity" in science.  Chance discovery!  So thanks to the long line which called my attention and indeed, the place is not only a fast food resto but also a fast good resto!  I guarantee you, the food is really, really good and good to the pocket too!  Visit Chef Lau's Pugon Roasters in their branches in Sun Mall, Ayala Triangle Gardens, Light Mall in Mandaluyong ('coz we stayed in Light Residences), SM City San Lazaro, and McKinley Hill in Taguig.  This may be a little bit late but congratulations to you, Chef Lau for bringing Filipino food to a higher level so we can experience and enjoy Fiesta Araw-Araw!  #tosomeats #tosomtravels

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Mad Mark's Creamery and Good Eats

Albay's Best Eats

       

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Mad Mark's Creamery and Good Eats

Jollibee, McDo, Chowking, Greenwich - these are by-far the top 4 Philippine fast food chains Filipinos love the the most!  And these are also the only fast food chains our little Ozamiz can franchise.  FYI, we haven't got KFC, Pizza Hut, Max's, and Shakey's yet.  So whenever I'm out and about, I always see to it not to eat at these most frequented eateries in Ozamiz.   I always try something new and different that's why getting out keeps my blood boiling.  Hehe....

From my recent trip to Manila, me and my friends happened to check-in this American-inspired resto, Mad Mark's Creamery and Good Eats in Makati.  It is located at a corner of the 2/F of Glorietta 5 which is a bit outskirt from the food zone, a bit hidden from the mainstream that is.  But it surprised me that the place was packed with diners of all ages even by the time of around 2 PM which is already too late for lunch yet too early for merienda.  I think that just shows that people really take effort in visiting the place for its good eats so we tried some of 'em.

Johnnie Double Black Ribs

Wings and Jambalaya

Lemon Chicken

Indeed, these are all good eats!  We haven't tried any of their ice cream desserts for we were already full with only these.  (We also thought of strolling around and having dessert in another place for another "something new" experience.  Hehe.....) 

So if ever you're in the capital city of the Philippines, do visit Mad Mark's in Glorietta, Kapitolyo, or the recently opened branch in Bonifacio High Street.  Like 'em on Facebook here! :)

  

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The Eton Residences Greenbelt

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The Eton Residences Greenbelt

Urban living has never been my thing because residing in big cities always wears me out physically and mentally.  I couldn't withstand the land, water, air, and noise pollution, long hours on the road due to heavy traffic, and mobs of people crowding the streets which makes me dizzy.  Moreover, there are plenty of people but there are no people because I don't know anyone.  I was never comfortable living in Manila or Cebu that's why I came back here in the "big" OZ years ago for good!

However, visiting a big city is OK for me from time to time.  Just going for "a little" business and pleasure is my breathe of fresh air.  Checking into nice places, eating in posh restos, and shopping on big sales are my most looked after luxurious activities that I can only do in big cities.  That's the reason why I'm also a big-city-friendly person.  Hehe.....

Anyway, urban living is also desired by many especially my high school bff, Doc Che.  She just loves living in the big city and had adjusted from the hustle and bustle of the city life.  As a busy doctor, convenience and comfort are a must for her and looking for the perfect place to stay is like searching for Mr. Right - tedious and wearisome.  But it's a great thing there's Eton Residences so welcome to her abode!

The Lobby

Lobby palang, 5-star hotel na a dating!  The receptionist and bellboys treat you like a celebrity so it's really like checking-in a 5-star hotel.  Now, let's see what's inside her unit.

Getting inside the building makes you feel secluded from the chaos of the city outside.  It is laid-back that fits my personality.  The units are in standard-unit size which is perfect for a single lady, bachelor, or newlyweds. 

Additionally, the condotel is also complete with amenities and facilities like swimming pool, Jacuzzi, function hall, meditation garden, fitness gym, children's playground, etc. so you don't have to go out for recreation anymore.

Thank you for inviting us over, chog!  You made us experience living on top! :)

Visit The Eton Residences Greenbelt at Makati or click here for information on leasing and buying a unit.

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CamSur Sidetrip

Ooops!  Just when I thought that I'm already done with my Albay blog installment, I suddenly remember that we also had a "sidetrip" during our trip.  Just as they say, "When in a place, make the most out of it."  So we also visited its adjacent province to the north, Camarines Sur.

CamSur is the largest among the six provinces in Bicol Region.  It also has its own pride to boast like the Caramoan Islands where the reality TV show, Survivor is being shot for a number of seasons and editions worldwide.  Aside from these stunning islands, foreigners from around the world also flock to CamSur for the wakeboarding facilities the province has.  Click here for my adventurous story on this water activity at Camsur Watersports Complex. 

Nevertheless, CamSur is also renowned for its religiosity.  The Our Lady of Peñafrancia is the town's Ina (mother) whom they honor every September for her feast.  A colorful fluvial procession is being held which is participated by Bicolano devotees and other pilgrims.  They light candles while saying, "Viva la Virgen" (Long live the Virgin!) to the miraculous image of the patroness.

Other than tourist destinations, CamSur is also distinguished for its people.  Showbiz personalities like Victor Wood, Imelda Papin, and Jaime Fabregas are original talents of the province.  And one recent notable person who made a difference to the world of Philippine politics was Mr. Jesse Robredo.  He served six whole terms as Mayor of the city of Naga before being the Secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government from 2010 until his death in 2012.  Robredo was an honest statesman that the whole Philippines mourned upon knowing of his death.  A state funeral was given to him and it was such an honor to pay a visit after two months of his cremation.

  
Lastly, to complete our CamSur sidetrip was a sumptuous halo-halo treat!  Halo-halo is Philippines' top summer favorite and it is only in Bicol Region that halo-halo is given a different twist.  DJC Halo-Halo and Snack Inn serves the cheesiest halo-halo ever!  This is the Original Halo-Halo Supreme which is a mix of ube, leche flan, langka, saba, corn kernels, gulaman, sago, crushed ice, milk, ice cream, and the star - grated cheese.  The cheese toppings make the overall flavor of the mixed sweets even more palatable to the taste buds for its creaminess.

  
Come south, Cam Sur!  Visit the beautiful province of Camarines Sur so click here for more information!

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Albay's Places to Stay

Alas, here is now a final post for my Albay blog installment.  I know you are now wondering where we stayed in this beautiful province.  But let me tell you one very important tip first.  You have to do advance booking because hotels, inns, or guest houses in Albay do really fill up so quickly.  Albay is one of the top destinations for tourists in the Philippines whole year round so you must dial-up earlier before your staycation date to ensure that you're gonna have a place to stay there.  And what I can recommend are as follows:

1.  Coastal View Beach Resort

Coastal View Beach Resort is located at Sto. Domingo, a municipality outskirts of Legazpi City.  But it is not too far from the commercial center of Albay for it is only 15-20 minutes ride.  The coastline of this municipality offers a breathtaking view of the Albay Gulf.  The beach, though black gives you a tranquil experience especially with Mt. Mayon that is just around the corner.

  

The resort has two swimming pools for the whole family to enjoy.  

  

It has plenty of rooms that can accommodate a whole baranggay ranging from standard rooms to executive spacious rooms.

The entire place is also ideal for any social function such as family reunions, weddings, birthdays, seminars, and other party, party, parties.

2.  Reynaldo's Travel Lodge

Reynaldo's Travel Lodge is located at the very heart of Legazpi City proper.  It is the humble home of a lovely couple whose children are all in the States.  Since they have a big place, they decided to compartmentalize it, making rooms for visitors.  It is a very affordable inn that is so homey with a mother's touch.  Thank you, Tito and Tita for the warm accommodation and for allowing us to invade the rest of your house that the others can't.  Hehe....That's the girl power of the beautiful Red Roses! :)   

However, if you are the high-end type of person, there are also sosy hotels like La Piazza Hotel and Convention Center at the city proper and The Oriental Legazpi which is on top of a hill, overlooking the city.

So, I guess I'm already done filling you up with everything Albay.  Thanks to KathNiel for reminding me of this unfinished business.  And oh, for something to bring home from the journey, don't forget to drop by at Albay Pilinut for pili nuts and other Albay sweet delicacies.  And there's also this tangy native wine, Bignay perfect for any meaty dinner once you get home.

   

Visit the province of Albay where nature, food, and people are at its best!  Click here for more information of warm Albay.

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Albay's Best Eats

As promised last night, here's now a post dedicated to Albay's best eats.  For me, a journey to a certain place will never be complete without food, food, and food.  Food is what makes a place be made known aside from its innate beauty and good people.  Food is what gives a place its identity and food is what imparts a place its rich culture to their visitors.  With that, food is what makes Albay even more special.  

Albay cuisine is far too different from the others.  It has its base on gata or coconut milk and sili or chili.  Albayanons are gifted individuals when it comes to cooking.  In fact, if you can get inside an ancestral house in Albay, you will see that it has a big kitchen in the ground floor where traditional cooking is being done.  It also has an adjacent storehouse for spices, herbs, preserved foods, and harvests from the farm.  If you had watched the film, Kailangan Kita of Aga Muhlach and Claudine Barreto, then you'll see it all.

So when I was given the chance for a sojourn to Albay, food tripping was also a part of the list aside from sightseeing.  Now here are my Albay best eats:

1.  Bigg's Diner

Bigg's Diner is the biggest fast food chain in Bicol Region.  When we say fast food, we say that it's of no good 'coz it's only junk food.  But Bigg's is not the burger-fries-only kind of thing fast food.  It is a home-cooked kind of thing fast food that is actually a fusion of American retro dining and Filipino native cooking.  This is evident with Bigg's all-time faves: buffalo wings, baby back ribs, beef salpicao, and laing.

Aside from their oh-so yummy food, I also love their oh-so pretty interiors which is a mix of vintage retro and modern-day exuberance.

So when in Albay, never miss to visit Bigg's Diner for an ultimate Albay food experience that you'll surely enjoy with the whole gang.

2.  1st Colonial Grill

1st Colonial Grill is the most visited restaurant in Albay for its ingenious invention of the sili ice cream.  This unique ice cream flavor is so good for its milky and buttery taste with a hint of spiciness by the sideline.  For those who are not fond of spicy foods, this is a must-try.  Who knows, you'll get a liking to chili once you had tried this one.  And together with the sili ice cream, other Albay flavors are also available like tinutung na ice cream made from scorched niyog (matured coconut meat), pili ice cream from pili nuts, and malunggay ice cream from moringga leaves.  

3.  Pares King

Pares King serves the most affordable Bicolano home-cooked meals.  Their specialty is pares, meaning "pair" which is a combination of beef stew viand and soup served with garlic rice.  This is a perfect nightcap for tourists who are tired touring the whole day.  

Finally, to top Albay's best eats is Small Talk Cafe which dishes are a fusion of Italian and Bicolano cuisine.  You may visit here for my separate story of the place.

Again, this is not yet the whole thing of Albay for I will be featuring where we stayed there tomorrow so stay tuned.  :)

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Feature Friday: Albay Rising

Feature Friday highlights businesses, people, fashion, and basically anything under the sun!

Since I blogged about Albay last night, I realized that I haven't finished writing about it while digging into my pictures folder.  So after almost two years, allow me to do my unfinished business.  It would be unfair to the province if I won't brag about it completely.  I owe to it my eat, pray, love journey with the JCI-Ozamis Red Rose ladies plus a JCI-Greater Dipag veteran, Kuya Boyet.

So first stop was the Mayon Rest House which is not a rest house at all.  It is actually a view deck of the majestic Mt. Mayon from which the once bustling Mayon Skyline Hotel is situated.  The said hotel was devastated by typhoon Reming way back in 2006 and what is left behind is only its dilapidated building.  As you might notice, paranormal sightings are actually evident in the photos below.  That is, if you can see.

However, Mayon Rest House still thrives to be teeming with life.  The place has been converted into an overlooking nature park and the government of Albay had chosen it to house the Mayon Planetarium and Science Park.  This is often a venue for educational field trips for gradeschoolers because it is not only Mt. Mayon they will see but also outer space.  Additionally, a native restaurant is also open on top of the hill for hungry Juans but you can also bring your own food and have a picnic in their gardens. 

Next stop was Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave.  It was named after the dialect hoyop, meaning "blowing of wind" because of the cold winds that flow freely from the different openings of the cave.  Since we were not geared for caving, the tour guides just allowed us to enter the portals which we can manage.  We didn't get through a needle's eye so all we had to do was just walk and bend a little to protect our heads from the stalactites.  It would be more fun if we had squeezed, crawled, and knelt our way to the darker and inner chambers but at least we had walked through the cave without scratches.

        
The following day, we visited Lignon Hill which offers a panoramic view of the whole city of Legazpi.  According to our attorney/councilor tour guide, it's best to visit the place by night for you'll get to see twinkle twinkle little stars not just up above but also down below.

  
Then we headed to Embarcadero for pasalubong shopping.  Native handicraft is promoted by the Albayanons as their cottage industry.  Their designs can actually compete with any other imported brands.  You know naman us, Pinoys.  We are not really into supporting our own.  But Albay's handicraft proves that we have something to be proud of. 

  
But the Embarcadero is not only a place for shopping but also a place for recreation.  Night life in Albay is peaceful with its almost zero crime rate.  Roaming around the place until midnight was not scary so we went out every night for the balls we had to attend during our JCI conference.

So now, that's Albay!  A province rich in natural resources, of inherent Filipino roots, and of good people.  Through ups and downs caused by catastrophic eruptions of Mt. Mayon, Albay is rising and is showing to the world the many wonders it got.  

Good Place Deserves a Good OOTD! :)

This is not yet the whole thing of Albay for I will be featuring its best eats tomorrow so stay tuned.  :)

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She's Dating the Gangster in ALBAY

While watching the trailer of KathNiel's upcoming movie, She's Dating the Gangster, I could just relate again with the love team for their picturesque setting.  Up to this age and with all the places I saw, it still awes me to have watched something on TV a place where I've been to.  It still wows me to say, "Oh, I had walked right into that ground they're walking on!"  And for this another KathNiel craze, I'm so glad they shot on location at Albay!

Albay is a rising province located in southeastern Philippines which is part of the Bicol Region, Luzon.  It is the place of the world's famous perfect-coned volcano, Mt. Mayon.  Wherever you are in Albay, you can catch a glimpse of Mt. Mayon's majestic presence all over the place as featured here.  'Twas a great thing I had backdrops of Mt. Mayon in my photos 'coz in one of my backdrops is where Kenji promised Athena that he's going to marry her there someday.

Speaking of marriage, wedding bells are a sweet melody in Albay for its many-splendored churches.  As a Philippine historic province, Albay has one of the most picturesque wedding churches in the country sitting gracefully on top of a hill.  The Daraga Church is often a favorite of most wedding planners and groom and bride to be's.  For who would not fall for its old-fashionedly romantic facade with Mt. Mayon by the sideline?  Pictures before and after the wedding would just be so perfect even without those over-rated wedding decos and props.  The church by itself speaks everything for that perfect wedding day!

Oh, how I'd love to see you again, Albay!  Another walk into your gardens and another round with your chilis would be so great especially when it is shared with someone special.  I may be solo in this flight almost two years ago and still solo until now, I promise to visit you soon when I'm already dating that one great love!  But I still have to wait 'till I'll meet him.

Watch the full trailer of She's Dating the Gangster here:

      

Just can't wait for July 16 to watch the whole film!  (Gah!!!!)

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Feature Friday: Small Talk Café

Feature Friday highlights businesses, people, fashion, and basically anything under the sun!

Nestled along 51 Doña Aurora St., Legazpi City, Albay is a pretty stylish home restaurant, the Small Talk Café.  Named after a column of UP Diliman's gazette, Small Talk aims to provide a venue for intimate tetè-a-teté among friends.  So the interior of a family's ancestral house is not changed but just enhanced with an exhibit of pre-war memorabilia.  Additionally, the place is not commercialized which caters an ambiance of cozy and private atmosphere.

A Homey Entrance

Blast from the Past

Small Talk Café is owned and managed by Chef Bernadette Peralta Factora.  Open to the public since 1999, the resto serves a fusion of Italian and Bicolano cuisine.  With the Bicolano's famous pinangat or laing (gabi leaves cooked in coconut milk) and spicy Bicol express (sautéed pork and bagoong alamang in coconut milk), pizza and pasta has been given a different blend and unique twist.  Their menu includes:

Bicol Express Pasta

 Pizza Bicolana

Nonetheless, original Filipino dishes are also served such as

Crispy Pata

Crispy Squidlets

Grilled Pork Spareribs

And nothing beats the original Bicol's pride!

Bicol Express

I am privileged enough to had come and visited this gem of Albay.  Much more, I also got the chance to have some small talk with the owner's mom, Mrs. Bernadita Peralta.  She shared to me some advices on how to serve good food and deliver quality service to keep customers coming back.  

With Tita Bernadita

Much more, treating customers like family makes Small Talk Café a big talk from the mouths of people who had visited the place.  Getting stronger for over 13 years, Small Talk is still looking forward to celebrate food, love, and life with every Filipino family!

Tita Bernadita Dining with Friends After Hearing Friday Mass

Celebrating My Actual 30th Birthday with My JCI Family

Take a look at  Small Talk Café's complete menu here.

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