by Penny Angeles-Tan | May 14, 2024 | Food & Beverage
The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang promises vibrant flavors that will take patrons to the culinary capital of the Philippines in just one bite with its Pampanga Food Festival. From May 16 to 31, 2024, Café Ilang-Ilang will showcase a selection of Kapampangan delicacies. Spearheaded by Executive Chef Konrad Walter, the culinary team will showcase both traditional and exotic dishes from the culinary capital of the Philippines.
Diners can expect to indulge in an array of well-known Kapampangan dishes encompassing traditional favorites like Kalderetang Bibe, Ningnangang Hito at Dalag (grilled catfish and freshwater eel), Kapampangan Bringhe (Filipino style paella cooked in coconut milk), Tidtad Babi (Kapampangan version of dinuguan) with puto, Suam Mais, Sipo Egg, Saleng Manuk, Lengua, and the classic Sisig.
Other delectable dishes include Pako Salad (fern salad), Pizza with Sisig, Aligue Pasta (seafood pasta in crab fat sauce), sweets like Tibok Tibok (made from fresh carabao’s milk topped with latik), Kalame Duman (sticky rice cake), Sans Rival, Sasmuan Polvoron, Barquillas, Cashew Mazapan, Panecillos Cookies and Turrones de Casuy.
These dishes are part of the rotating selection at Café Ilang-Ilang’s lunch and dinner buffet. Alongside these offerings, diners can still enjoy Café Ilang-Ilang’s popular favorites, including various cuisines such as Japanese, Korean, and Italian, among others.
“This is The Manila Hotel’s way to enlighten our guests about diverse culinary tastes. Being the culinary capital of the Philippines, these Kapampangan dishes rightly take center stage at Café Ilang-Ilang,” said EJ Yap, The Manila Hotel’s assistant director of food and beverage.
For inquiries and reservations, please call +632 85270011 or +632 53015500 or email re************@************el.com.
About The Manila Hotel
The Manila Hotel is located beside kilometer zero (0), where the City of Manila begins, and is within walking distance from the Philippines’ known landmarks: Rizal Park, Intramuros, and National Museums. Defined by its history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel is the choice hotel for the most distinguished clientele.
Since 1912, The Manila Hotel has continuously provided the best services and amenities for a truly memorable experience. It has more than 500 well-appointed rooms and 22 function rooms, including three (3) ballrooms. Apart from these, the hotel offers five-star relaxation and wellness experiences with the Manila Hotel Spa, adult and children’s pools, and the Manila Hotel Health Club. The hotel is home to the Heritage Museum, a treasure trove of priceless memories that narrate its illustrious past. It also has an Art Gallery that offers a window into a contemporary world, captured through the objective point of view of different artists.
The Manila Hotel has six (6) dining outlets, each offering a unique culinary adventure: Café Ilang-Ilang which is a favorite spot for its extensive selection of International buffet delights; Champagne Room with its Old European style fine dining and also hailed as the most romantic room in Manila—it features European cuisine in a posh, fine-dining setting; Tap Room, an Old English pub-inspired outlet where one can enjoy an evening of live music; Lobby Lounge which is ideal for casual dining, aperitif, post-dinner nightcaps, or leisure meetings; Red Jade, a fine dining restaurant that serves authentic Chinese cuisine; and Delicatessens that offers the hotel’s signature pastries, bread, chocolates, and pralines.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | May 10, 2024 | Business
The connection between nature and culture has had a profound impact on art, fashion, and architecture over time. Milan Design Week is currently shining a spotlight on the theme “Materia Natura,” delving into the many ways in which nature can serve as a wellspring of design inspiration. GROHE SPA, a premium sub-brand of the globally renowned GROHE, is fully embracing this theme at the world’s largest annual design event.
The term “SPA” finds its roots in “Salus per aquam,” reflecting the founding principle of GROHE SPA. Set within the magnificent Palazzo Reale near the Duomo, GROHE is presenting thoughtfully curated bathroom solutions that embody a new standard of luxury and personalized quality in a comprehensive installation, celebrating the transformative influence of water.
A tribute to nature and history
The GROHE SPA installation in the courtyard of Palazzo Reale showcases the concept of “Aquatecture” – the combination of water and architecture. This installation, designed by the in-house LIXIL Global Design and Brand Identity team, pays homage to the history of the building while incorporating the contemporary GROHE SPA “Salus per aquam” concept. It aims to emphasize the significance of water in architecture and highlight the health and well-being benefits associated with it.
The former courtyard garden has inspired our design, perfectly aligning with the theme of Milan Design Week, “Materia Natura”. We’ve carefully blended nature and architecture to create immersive spaces that truly capture the essence of GROHE SPA.
“Through our installation at Palazzo Reale, we reflect on the intricate bond between nature and human creativity, intertwining the rich history of the royal palace with the modern ethos of GROHE SPA. Inviting visitors on a sensory journey to deeply experience ‘Salus per aquam’, our ‘Aquatecture’ spaces exhibit the powerful connection of water in architecture. They stand not only as showcases but as inspiration for architects and designers, encouraging collaboration and experimentation,” explains Patrick Speck, Leader, LIXIL Global Design EMENA.
Redefining spa luxury across four tiers
Each “Aquatecture” space represents one of the four tiers that bring GROHE SPA to life. Visitors begin their immersive journey at the fourth tier, which showcases industry-leading products to create the ultimate home spa hideaway. Shower solutions such as GROHE Rainshower Aqua and the F-Digital Deluxe modules combine timeless elegance with modern technology, using light, steam, sound, and smell to delight the senses. Additionally, the GROHE Atrio Outdoor Shower provides a refreshing and rejuvenating experience, enabling a stronger connection to nature and the tranquility it brings.
Transitioning to the third tier, the focus is on the GROHE Colors Collection with the new Satin finish. Offering a luxurious touch and expanded design choices for a personalized look, the new finish is available for GROHE Allure and GROHE Atrio, as well as matching showers and accessories in the colors Satin Steel and Satin Graphite.
The highlight of the second tier is the new GROHE Allure Gravity Private Collection. Blending a slim square silhouette with numerous options for customization, the faucet line comes with exchangeable cover plates expertly crafted from glass, mirror, or marble. GROHE has partnered with Caesarstone, the global pioneer of premium countertop surfaces, to craft cover plates from the brand’s durable surfaces in timeless designs.
Culminating the exhibition, the first tier consists of the GROHE Icon 3D Collection. The 3D metal-printed products redefine what is possible while taking sustainable product design with ultimate customization options to a new level.
To learn more about GROHE, visit https://www.grohe.ph/en_ph/ and follow their Facebook (@GROHEPacific) and Instagram (@grohe_ph) pages.
About GROHE
GROHE stands as a leading global brand, specializing in complete bathroom solutions and kitchen fittings. Since 2014, GROHE has been part of the esteemed brand portfolio of LIXIL, a manufacturer of innovative water and housing products. GROHE is committed to providing “Pure Freude an Wasser” (Pure Joy of Water) through products that embody the values of quality, technology, design, and sustainability. The brand’s dedicated portfolio, including its premium sub-brand GROHE SPA, offers life-enhancing product solutions and services.
With water as its central focus, GROHE contributes to LIXIL’s Impact Strategy by implementing a resource-saving value chain. This includes CO2-neutral* production, reducing unnecessary plastic in product packaging, and introducing water- and energy-saving product technologies such as GROHE Everstream, a water-recirculating shower. The brand’s hybrid communication ecosystem, GROHE X, also provides industry-leading innovation.
Whether engaging digitally through the brand experience hub, visiting the GROHE X Brand & Communication Experience Center in Hemmer, Germany, or encountering the GROHE X Motion Trucks on the road, GROHE is dedicated to connecting people and contributing to LIXIL’s purpose of “making better homes a reality for everyone, everywhere.”
About Lixil
LIXIL (TSE Code 5938) makes pioneering water and housing products that solve everyday, real-life challenges, making better homes a reality for everyone, everywhere. Drawing on our Japanese heritage, we create world-leading technology and innovate to make high-quality products that transform homes. But the LIXIL difference is how we do this: through meaningful design, an entrepreneurial spirit, a dedication to improving accessibility for all, and responsible business growth.
Our approach comes to life through industry-leading brands, including INAX, GROHE, American Standard, and TOSTEM. Approximately 55,000 colleagues operating in more than 150 countries are proud to make products that touch the lives of more than a billion people every day. Learn more at www.lixil.com.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | May 9, 2024 | Food & Beverage
As Mother’s Day approaches, The Manila Hotel offers exclusive deals to honor the remarkable women in our lives. For the whole month of May, we invite our guests to treat their mothers to an unforgettable experience at the iconic hotel.
Exclusive Mother’s Day Staycation
Experience a luxurious stay at The Manila Hotel and ensure an unforgettable Mother’s Day celebration. For a special rate of ₱5,999 net, guests can revel in an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room and awaken to a lavish breakfast buffet for two persons. Treat Mom to the pampering she deserves amid the timeless elegance of the Grand Dame. The stay period for this offer is until May 31, 2024.
Terno de Mayo Exhibit at the Grand Lobby
Teaming up with the Designers Council of the Philippines, The Manila Hotel presents Terno de Mayo, a showcase of elegance and artistry of 20 stunning terno gowns crafted by 20 Filipino designers. Set against the backdrop of the Grand Lobby’s grandeur, the display serves as a tribute to the Philippine terno’s enduring beauty and rich traditions. The exhibit is free to view and runs until May 31, 2024.
Celebrate Mother’s Day in Style at Champagne Room
At the prestigious Champagne Room, renowned for its top-notch cuisine, guests can indulge in a special menu crafted to delight even the most discerning palates. The 6-course gastronomic journey begins with a refreshing salad, offering a choice between Burrata Salad with cherry tomatoes, radish, and micro greens or the Symphony of Lobster with mango citrus dressing.
For starters, guests can relish the flavors of the Romaine Sweet Peas Soup, Four Cheese Ravioli, and Green Mango Sorbet, setting the stage for sumptuous mains including Grilled U.S. Beef Rib Eye with Gratin of Truffle Oil Mashed Potato or Seafood Medley with Zucchini Risotto. End the meal on a sweet note with the decadent Mixed Berries Pavlova paired with coffee or tea and a selection of luscious pralines.
The Mother’s Day special menu is available for lunch this May at ₱4,888 net per person.
Delicatessen Delights
Mother’s Day Delicatessen
Delicatessen welcomes guests with a dedicated Mother’s Day counter featuring an array of delectable treats designed to pamper the queen of the day. Choose from Praline Bouquet, I Love Mom Chocolate Bar, Heart-Shaped, and Shoe-Shaped Chocolates, among others. These Mother’s Day treats are available until May 15, 2024.
Mango Cream Cake for Mom
Mango Cream Cake
Highlighting the celebration is the divine Mango Cream Cake, a sumptuous dessert perfectly encapsulating the sweetness of maternal love. This decadent mango treat, made with layers of sponge cake, soft whipped cream, and fresh mangoes, is available for ₱1,600 net.
For inquiries and reservations, you may call +632 8527 00 11 or +632 5301 55 00 local 1262 to 1264, email re************@************el.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.
About The Manila Hotel
The Manila Hotel is located beside kilometer zero (0), where the City of Manila begins, and is within walking distance from the Philippines’ known landmarks: Rizal Park, Intramuros, and National Museums. Defined by its history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel is the choice hotel for the most distinguished clientele.
Since 1912, The Manila Hotel has continuously provided the best services and amenities for a truly memorable experience. It has more than 500 well-appointed rooms and 22 function rooms, including three (3) ballrooms. Apart from these, the hotel offers five-star relaxation and wellness experiences with the Manila Hotel Spa, adult and children’s pools, and the Manila Hotel Health Club.
The hotel is home to the Heritage Museum, a treasure trove of priceless memories that narrate its illustrious past. It also has an Art Gallery that offers a window into a contemporary world, captured through the objective point of view of different artists.
It has six (6) dining outlets, each offering a unique culinary adventure: Café Ilang-Ilang, which is a favorite spot for its extensive selection of International buffet delights; Champagne Room with its Old European style fine dining and also hailed as the most romantic room in Manila — it features European cuisine in a posh, fine-dining setting; Tap Room, an Old English pub-inspired outlet where one can enjoy an evening of live music; Lobby Lounge which is ideal for casual dining, aperitif, post-dinner nightcaps, or leisure meetings; Red Jade, a fine dining restaurant that serves authentic Chinese cuisine; and Delicatessens that offers the hotel’s signature pastries, bread, chocolates, and pralines.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | May 7, 2024 | Book Reviews
A few weeks ago, I was searching Goodnovel for a new story to read. It’s always Alpha this, Alpha that. Then, I encountered a couple of stories that piqued my interest.
The Luna Choosing Game by Jane Above Story
The Luna Choosing Game by Jane Above Story
The Luna Choosing Game by Jane Above Story is a story about Piper, a woman who was working as a waitress to raise her twin sister’s daughter. Unbeknownst to her, her friend entered her into a contest by the royal family for all unmated women of eligible age. Whoever wins will become the Luna for one of the three Princes, meaning there will be three winners … one for each Prince. She discovers that one of the Princes is her ex, Nicholas. At the time they were dating, she had no idea of his identity.
She gets chosen as a candidate, and as the story progresses, the candidates go through different challenges where one or more will be eliminated. She brings her niece, who everyone thinks is her daughter, with her. Things are more difficult for her as she has the added challenge of being wolfless and not being high-born. However, she does not really let that stop her. She knows she will get eliminated early, but while she competes, her niece gets the medical care she needs.
Most of the other candidates hate her, some of the servants hate her, some of the guards hate her, and the King and Queen hate her. It seems like only Princes Nicholas and Julian like her. What will her fate be in The Luna Choosing Game?
How she lost her wolf when Nicholas was sure she had one before is part of the mystery of this story. Why are more and more people losing their wolves? Where is Piper’s sister? Why did she leave her daughter with Piper?
Luna Battle: The Game by Billiejo Priestley
Luna Battle: The Game by Billiejo Priestley
Luna Battle: The Game by Billiejo Priestley is about Elara, a slave to Alpha Draven’s pack who secretly entered The Luna Battle in hopes of escaping the torture of her everyday life. She lost her wolf at four years old, has lived her life as a servant, and when she was old enough, she became a sex slave and was made to service Alpha Draven, his betas, and his guests. She was bitten and claimed by Alpha Draven when she was twelve years old and had no mate.
The Luna Battle is a competition to select the Luna Queen for King Darius and the Luna Princess for Prince Kellan. Each candidate will be asked to perform various challenges. At the end of each challenge, one or more of the candidates will be eliminated and sent home.
Magic selected her as a candidate, and when she arrived at the Palace, most of the other contestants hated her and called her “mutt,” but that didn’t stop Elara from being the bigger person and reminding them of how a Luna is supposed to behave. After all, she didn’t really expect to stay in the competition for long. But what happens when Prince Kellan starts to show her favor, and the King seems to do so, too?
The Luna stories go head-to-head.
I started reading The Luna Choosing Game first and then paused at Chapter 102 because I, quite honestly, got bored with the minutiae. More than a hundred chapters in, and it feels like only a little has happened. Some scenes could have been removed, and chapters could have been compressed. You know those telenovelas that seem to go on forever? That’s what it felt like when I was reading this book. It was interesting, but it was taking forever to get to the point.
In addition, as of this posting, The Luna Choosing Game has 460 chapters and counting! For crying out loud! Know when to stop! If you must, then serialize it, book one and book two, etc.
At the point I was getting fed up with it, I encountered Luna Battle: The Game, and the first thing I noticed was the parallels:
- wolfless
- no family
- forced into a life of servitude
Even the challenges were similar, but then, you know what they say, there really is little that is original as we all build off what other people have done in the past. There’s a big difference, though. Luna Battle is fast-paced and engaging and, more importantly … ONLY 151 CHAPTERS!
YES! The author was able to tell THE WHOLE STORY (COMPLETE!) in just 151 chapters. Value for money? Check!
Will I go back to finish The Luna Choosing Game? I am unsure. At this point, as I see the chapter count climbing higher and higher, it doesn’t seem very certain. Maybe I will wait until the book makes its way to Amazon, hopefully, KU, and then read it there. I’ve already spent way too much on it, as it is.
Head to head … Luna Battle Wins!
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Apr 15, 2024 | Food & Beverage
Hey there! Are you excited for Mother’s Day? It’s a great opportunity to show your mom how much you care about her. And what better way to do that than by cooking up a delicious homemade meal using Purefoods Heat & Eat Viands? These convenient viands make it super easy to prepare delicious dishes like Bistek Tagalog and Chicken Meatballs in no time, so you can focus on spending quality time with your mom and making her feel cherished and appreciated.
Just imagine the smile on her face as you serve up slow-cooked, flavorful meals that require minimal effort. Plus, you can add your favorite veggies to elevate the flavors and create a culinary masterpiece that your mom will love.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not check out the HomeFoodie website for amazing recipes like Sweet and Sour Meatball or Bistek Stroganoff? You’re sure to find something that your mom will adore.
So go ahead and make this Mother’s Day extra special with Purefoods H&E Viands. Your mom deserves it!
Sweet & Sour Meatballs
Servings: 4
Author: HomeFoodie
- 2 packs 250 g each PUREFOODS HEAT & EAT CHICKEN MEATBALLS
- 2 cups cooking oil
Sauce:
- 1 pc 50 g red onion, quartered
- 1 can 227 g pineapple chunks, drained
- 1/2 cup cane vinegar
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/4 cup banana ketchup
- 2 tbsp cornstarch dissolved in 1 cup water
- 1/2 tsp iodized fine salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Fry meatballs in a deep pan with hot oil for 2 minutes or until golden brown. Drain excess oil on paper towels and set aside.
In a saucepan, add 2 tbsp used oil. Sauté onion, then add the remaining ingredients. Stir continuously until the mixture simmers and thickens. Adjust seasonings as needed.
Add cooked meatballs and simmer once.
Makes 4-5 servings
(Yield: 20-24 pc/4 pc per serving)
This Mother’s Day, forget about spending hours in the kitchen and instead, spend some quality time with your mom and family. Purefoods Heat & Eat has you covered with their easy-to-prepare options that taste just like home. You can find them in almost all major supermarkets and groceries across the country, and you can also order them online via San Miguel Mart, Lazada, or Shopee.
Make your Mother’s Day celebration unforgettable with Purefoods Ready-to-Eat that will let you show your love and appreciation to the women in your life. With Purefoods, creating memories with your loved ones has never been easier. So, why wait? Grab some Purefoods and make this Mother’s Day extra special!
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