Aling Foping's Halo-halo

In relation to my post, Jelly Citea, this next food review is still found at the MTS (Matina Town Quare). As you see, I visit this place often. Well, this place used to be plain with just bench and play grounds around. First of all, I am not a drinker or a party person; I simply visit this place because it has lots of new restaurants and foods to be tried on. One day, my blogger friends, Jonas and Kevin wanted me to try Aling Foping's Halo-halo and so, this is the post is all about.

I regretted for not taking pictures of the place that time but it’s just a simple place. It is not air-conditioned so that you would enjoy the cool breeze of the air while eating your halo-halo. The halo-halo comes in a medium sized plastic container. Upon ordering, they will be giving a checklist and you must choose at the maximum of six items to be added on your halo-halo. Good thing I chose the best ingredients namely Langka, Leche Flan, Pinipig, Red Mongo, Saba and Ube.

The checklist

Personal Picks: Please refer to my chechlist

Budget: Php 85 to Php100
VALUE: ★★★★☆☆(The price, for me as a student, is a bit high.)
ATMOSPHERE:★★★★☆ (The place is good as you can breathe fresh air..)
SERVICE:★★★★☆ (Good.)
FOOD:★★★★☆ (Creamy halo-halo)

Me, Kevin and Jonas :)

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Jelly Citea

This food post has something to do with one of my favorite drinks, the milk tea. Well, if you are to visit Davao City, different milk tea restaurants are built across the city. Kangaroo Cafe, Alley Cat, Coffee Cat and Green Cafe, just to name some. Truly, this lovely city is prigressing very rapidly that in just a year, lots and lots of milk tea restaurants arose.

Every weekend or every time I have vacant time, in which I rarely have, my friends and I try to take advantages of these milk tea restaurants. We are so food adventurous that we look forward to try one food to another. Our feet brought us in MTS (Matina Town Square). Well, this place is very calm and relaxing when the sun is still up but become a party ground when the sets. Usually, this place starts to be noisy at 8pm. Different bands will start to play and people will begin to drink and party.

I haven't taken a picture of the place since it didn't come in my mind but maybe, I'll try it next time. Well, there are a lot of milk teas to choose from! But I tried Wintermelon Rock Salt and Cheese and Macau. Based on my dull memory, the large sized will cost you Php 90 while the small one is in Php 80 something. I ordered the Winterwatermelon Rock Salt and Cheese in sized small tumbler. It is chocolate flavored and my taste buds loved the taste since I am a chocolate lover. It has some sago and it and you won't really regret to try it if you have a sweet tooth.

Macau is a different story though. I ordered it in large size tumbler. At the first sip, all I can taste is a tea with a bitter taste as an after taste. At first, I didn't appreciate it. It is topped with some creamy cheese. Until when I am halfway, I thought of mixing the mixture and POOF! I never thought that it would be this good! It is not as sweet as the Wintermelon but it has an adorable taste since it has a cheese on its top. Well for me, it’s not main stream like the winterwatermelon and definitely worth a try!

Personal Picks: Wintermelon Rock Salt and Cheese and Macau (Haven't tried the other milk teas).

Budget: Php 50 (if you are to order the small size tumbler) to Php 150 per milk tea.

VALUE: ★★★★ ★(Affordable!)
ATMOSPHERE:★★★★☆ (The place is okay, not too spacious, they also have this post-note messages from the customers.)
SERVICE:★★★★☆ (Good.)
FOOD:★★★★★ (I recommend this!)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jellycitea

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Saging Repablik

Last September 11, 2014, we visited the Saging Repablik along the Tionko avenue, corner V mapa street, Davao City. Basically, Banana Repablik primarily offers viants and dishes that is incorporated with Saging or Banana (in english). Davao City is one of the main producers of Banana in the country. It is because Davao is a tropical city which has rich soils for banana to grow. Sometimes, it is also exported to the different countries. The owner has innovated a restaurant which promotes Davao City and Philippines as a whole. 

Saging Repablik opened its doors to the public last June 27, 2014. Though this restaurant is just months old, there are already people who franchised and invested to this banana-themed restaurant. This unique concept has made it successful. With this, they invited bloggers to join their Blogger's night.

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Mix n' Magic

Hello readers! How are you? Well, Sorry for this late post. Anyway, Last month, which is August, we visited this store along the Tionko Avenue. It is called Mix N' Magic. I never heard of this store before but this originated in Gensan and fortunately, it has made it's way here in Davao. This post is mouth-watering so save your mouth juices and visit this store! 

The following pictures were taken during the product presentation of the said store. 

Durian Mousse

Cheese Cupcake

Cashew Raisin Tart

Carrot Cake

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Toryano's Chicken Haus

This post will just be quick but I'll be reviewing the Toryano's Chicken Haus that is located at The Peak, Gaisano. There are lots of Toryano's Chicken haus branch in the city but we are Gaisano at that moment so we tried it.

We ate there last June 7, 2014, after the Etsy Craft Party that was hosted at the Yellow Hauz, along with my friends. Well, it is basically a restaurant whose specialty is focused mainly on grilled menu such as pork and chicken. But other than that, they also offer other menu such as pancit and etc.

I'm ready to eat!

Toryano's Chicken haus

Well, this restaurant offer different kinds of combo meals. Every combo meal is equivalent to an unli rice (horaay!). Filipinos, like me, surely like unlirice menu. For this post, I'll be reviewing their cheapest combo meal and the price plays somewhere in Php60 - Php70. Their combo 1 meal is equivalent to two (2) pork barbecues, an atsal and an unlimited rice.

The pork barbeque tastes is good and tender. It is really tasty and worth your money. Well just to say, I would prefer eating here and spending extra 10-15 pesos rather than eating in fast food chains. In addition to that, this barbecue is just like the other barbeques that are being served in the other restaurants. Not really something special but surely something that is worth your budget.

Well, you might want to try their other combo since they also offer native chicken and pork chop meal.

Toryano's Combo Meal #1

Toryano's Combo Meal #1 (plus an unlimited rice)

I just realized something, maybe they can make their services faster. My friends and I waiter for several minutes and we have to follow up our orders. I'm also quite surprised because it's not a busy hour and there were only few customers.

I've also searched the net and found same reviews. Well, there is still a big room for improvement.

(Left to Right) Kathrina, Me and Carl

(Left to Right) Kathrina, Me and Carl

I picked the top four important points in reviewing this restuarant and here it goes:

Budget: To avail the cheapest order, your budget must be Php 70 (Combo 1). Drinks are not included.

VALUE: ★★★★☆ ( Well, its affodable.)

ATMOSPHERE:★★★☆☆ (It's air conditioned)

SERVICE:★☆☆☆☆ (There's still a room for improvement in terms of service)

FOOD:★★★☆☆ (The food is okay.)

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Ice Giants at Quimpo Boulevard, Davao

Last September, 2013, my college friends and I went to the Ice Giants located somewhere in Quimpo Boulevard and just a few kilometers away from SM, Ecoland. This post does not have lots of pictures because I'm not a stable blogger those days and I don't capture pictures that much. These photos are just saved pictures from my device

If you feel stressed due to warm weather, then this post will fill up your needs! Welcome to Ice Giants. Ice Giants offers snacks and desserts.

TOP (Left to right) Chocolate Titans
BOTTOM (Left to right) a chocolate pizza

Chocolate Titans

This mouth-watering and chocolate filled bowl will sweep away your stress from school and work! Chocolate ice cream + marshmallows + chocolate stick-o + Chocolate candies = Chocolate Titans! I recommend this menu to everyone especially to those who has a sweet tooth! I forgot how much this costs but I think it ranges from Php300 - Php400. This is good for 5-6 persons.

The chocolate pizza made  with marsmallows, cream and some Kitkat chocolate wafers. I also love this, but I the pizza is too small for its price. Well, I'm not satisfied with this one but it's okay. The price ranges from Php300 to Php400.

The ambiance inside

The ceiling has some cuvy shape which is very attractive and also, some colorful circles.

Chocolate pizza.

Well, if you are to ask me about their service, I should say that I love it because they are very accommodating. Plus, they are also like cosplayers. I really love thair fancy uniform but I failed to capture it.

If you are also to ask me if ever I'll return to this place, definitely I will! This is one of my favorite food stalls here in Davao.

Buget: Php 300-500 to avail their Chocolate Titans good for 5-6 persons.

VALUE: ★★★☆☆

ATMOSPHERE:★★★★☆ 

SERVICE:★★★★★ 

FOOD:★★★☆ ☆ 

Ice Giants, Quimpo Boulevard unfortunately does not have a facebook page, but another branch from Davao which is in Damosa.

Address: Damosa Gateway Complex, Mamay Rd, Davao 8000
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ice-Giants-Desserts-and-Snacks/262194505852
Phone:(082) 235 2168

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Bulgogi Brothers Davao

If you are a k-pop fan or love the Korean culture, this post of for you! Well, this is my first time to try authentic Korean dishes and I tried it with Bulgogi Brothers.

Last July 10, 2014, Bulgogi Brothers conducted a food media roll-out for the existing promo. Bloggers were invited to try their platters, Korean BBQ specials, and affordable lunch set meals.When I entered the restaurant, I was pleased when the staffs greeted me “annyeonghaseyo” which means “Hello” in English. We were seated on the corner of the said restaurant and everything is already set.

The free appetizers

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The Stairwell

Last July 5, 2014, I had discovered another restaurant in Davao City, along with the Davao Bloggers. It is located at Matina Town Square or commonly known as MTS. It is inline with the other restaurants but this restaurant has something uniqueness to share. The food that are being served in the Stairwell is inspired by the Filipino Cuisines. 

All about the name "The Stairwell" :

The first location of the restaurant is near the stairs so that's how it got its name. But it was transferred on the corner, and the kitchen is still near the stairs. It is literally near the stairs.

How it started? :

This was just a dream came true. One of the owners just graduated dentistry and just passed the board exams. Her clinic is also at the Matina Town Square (MTS) just a few meters away from The Stairwell. She says that with the help of the some close friends, The Stairwell was born.

Appetizers

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Amish yogurt from Bahay ni Tuding Inn & Resto

Bahay ni Tuding Inn and Resto signage that can be seen from the Mercury Drug Store.

If you are looking for healthy desserts and snacks, this post os for you! Last June 27-28, 2014, "Bahay ni Tuding" just celebrated their third year anniversary. With regards to this, they have this "All day Yogurt Buffet bar". The place is located in San Pedro Street, near the Mercury Drug. It is located at the back of the Mercury Drug, that is why it is not visibly seen from the main streets. But if you pay attention, there is a logo and sign board that signifies that Bahay ni Tuding is just a few meters away from the main streets.

The place.

Frankly, this is my first time to visit this place. I never heard this before but I am pleased to visit this place. This place would remind me of the Spanish era we had before. They have veranda on the second and third floor but unfortunately, we haven't reached it .

The hallway to the event area.

The place is pretty nice and clean and the staffs are very accommodating and friendly. Well for me, its a plus points.

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Carmen's Garden Bistro

Davao is a progressing city. Different business stalls are emerging in Davao City, especially the food related businesses such as Yakimix and Vikings. With regards to this, one of the newest restaurant in Davao City which offers fine dining is the Carmen's Garden Bistro. This is just a small restaurant nearby the main streets of Quirino, Davao City.

Last May 30, we had a blogger’s dinner at the Carmen's Garden Bistro, Ping Low Building (fronting Javajive Quirino), Davao City. I am not familiar with the place so my sister and I took a time to find it. It is near from the Barbecue Boss, Quirino. Well, if you are facing the Barbecue boss, Carmen’s Garden Bistro will just be a few meters to your left.

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DFAT2014: The White House Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge

May is the month of Davao Food Appreciation Tour (DFAT). Last May 18, 2014, I was invited by Ria Jose to join this tour which was held on the The White House Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge, located at the Camella North Point, Bajada Davao City. The White House Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge is situated on the right corner from the entrance of the North Point.

Upon arriving at the venue, the guard escorted me to the restaurant. A very friendly receptionist greeted me as I entered the luxurious restaurant. And there they are the Davao Bloggers in a long table. I arrived late so I sat on the side most part of the table. As I take a look into the place, I find it cozy and comfy. No wonder the other guests are having fun on the other table. This restaurant offers a variety of lush dishes and each dish was made with care and has a very detailed presentation. You can even take a look on how the chefs made each dishes through a mirror. This restaurant offers a fine dining which would let you taste the finest food available in the city.

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Pineapple Crumble is now available at Backyard Burgers Ecoland, Davao

Last May 21, 2014, I was invited by Jonas (my fellow Davao Blogger who blogs at www.davaocityguy.me), to taste the new product of the Backyard Burgers which is the Pineapple crumble. With regards to this, we also have an opportunity to meet Dan, the baker, who is behind this innovation. 

Dan shared his experiences with his family and how they came out with the idea of selling this pineapple crumble. He said that he revised the ingredients and the taste to achieve his satisfaction and perfection.

As a dessert lover, my tongue was enticed as the group talked about this food. What makes this pineapple crumble unique is that the pineapple used is fresh from Bukidnon and the butter used is from Mindanao. The pineapple crumble from Mercedes Breads and Cakes actually originated in Cagayan de Oro City but is now available at the Backyard Burgers, Ecoland, Davao City. The pineapple filling is so sweet and luscious. You could taste its freshness as you give a bite. The crust so creamy and it complemented the juicy velvety filling. You won’t hesitate to eat the crust. Everything is just perfect!

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Alley Cat Tea House

Hi readers! How have you been? Lately, I’ve been addicted to tea. It tastes natural and oh so yummy since it has no artificial ingredient. Every morning, I got confused whether to drink tea or milk. I am confused because both of them are my favorites. Later on, I realized that the combination of both would result to a good outcome! *Drum rolls* and milktea was born! The best part with milktea is the natural aroma of the tea is combined with the sweet taste of milk. 

In Davao, Philippines, lots of café offer different kinds of milktea and if you happen to be here, then I recommend you to visit Alleycat Tea House. They offer milktea, cookies, and many other. The best part with this café is that it has a sort of mini library on the second floor where you can chill and relax with your friends while drinking the delicious milk tea. If you are with you friends then you can avail their cards, snakes and ladders and other board games on the second floor. They also have colorful pens in which free to use if you want to draw something.

These paintings can be found at the front of the Alley Cat. I love the style because  simple, cute and adorable. 

The graphic design on the left side of the door.

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Dampa Davao Food Tasting

Last week, Dampa Davao invited the Davao Bloggers to a food tasting event. It is near the Bangko Central ng Pilipinas. The ambiance is very welcoming. Dampa (in Philippines) means a hut or "more of a nipa hut, to be exact". This restaurant promotes Filipino ambiance to its customers. The design on its front looks like there is a fiesta (or feast) that is happening there. It has also parking area on its front that is reserved for its costumers.

According to the waiter who was serving us, this Dampa Davao Tiongko Avenue branch opened somewhere in December 10, 2014 and here it is. The picture below is what it looks like on its front.

They offer lechong manok in which I have forgotten to look for the price but it really tastes good. I love its aroma and its mouth-watering smell.

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Cake Gallerie

Welcome to "Cake Gallerie"

Address (in case you want to visit it): 1st Ave. Tulip Drive, Juna subd., Matina, 8000 Davao City, Philippines

These days, coffee shops are too mainstream. How about trying Cake shops? When you visit Davao there are a lot of coffee shops anywhere and worth a try. It happened to be I had visited this Cake Gallerie whose products are very yummy in an affordable price! It is a business from Davao which is home-based.

Last week, we visited Cake Gallerie. It is found in Matina, Davao City. I didn't expect it to be this perfect. It is a shop that was built in front of the owner's house. The ambiance is perfect for studying since the background music is really nice and isn't disturbing. The prices are really affordable. The chocolate mousse cake that I bought is more or less Php 58.00 while the Red Velvet cake is worth Php 68.00. Believe me, once you'll take a bite with this puffy creamy and coated with love cakes, you'd forgot your name for a second! This is perfect for family and friends bonding or you can also eat here alone. I'll recommend this to everyone.

This is what it looks like at the front. The ambiance from the outside seemed to be western. We had also talked to the very kind owner. She revealed that she was the one who cooked these delicious delights. She is a Culinary Arts graduate herself, too bad we didn't have a picture with her.

At the corner, there is a wooden divider which contains all the photos of the happy customers who were once been there. They also have this guest book wherein they let to let their customers to sign it up.

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The Moonshine Jungle Tour 2014 of Bruno Mars (Max's Restaurant)

Global Filipino brand Max's Restaurant boosts its support for international recording artist and Grammy awardee, Bruno Mars by announcing that it is the official restaurant of The Moonshine Jungle Tour: Bruno Mars Live in Manila concert.

Slated to take the stage on March 22, 2014, 8:00 pm at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, the "Nothin' On You" half-Filipino vocalist is expected to draw in thousands of concert enthusiasts all over the country, including Davaoeňo "brunofanatics." Mars' much-awaited stop in Manila is part of his ongoing world tour to promote his second studio album, "Unorthodox Jukebox." Part of the proceeds from his concert will be donated to helping Yolanda victims.

Born Peter Gene Hernandez, Bruno Mars grew up in a musical family. His father, Peter Hernandez, was a Latin percussionist while his Filipino mother, Bernadette "Bernie" San Pedro Baluyot, was a singer in Hawaii. Mars wrote and performed music at a very young age and was exposed to a diverse mix of reggae, rock, hip hop and R&B music. He had his share of hurdles early on in his career, but his persistence to succeed and remarkable gift in music helped catapult him to worldwide fame. It was only a matter of time before he captured the world's attention after helping popularize hits like "Nothin on You" by B.o.B, and "Billionaire" by Travie McCoy.

"Max's, a global Filipino brand, believes in showcasing the exceptional talent of Filipinos. We are very proud to support a multi-awarded international artist like Bruno Mars. As the official restaurant of his Moonshine Jungle concert in Manila, we share Bruno Mars' love for great music and world-class food. It is an experience that we would love to share with every Filipino, especially Davaoeňos who are passionate about classic Filipino dishes," shared Bobby Simborio, PR and CSR Manager for Max's Group of Companies.

Bruno Mars is one of the most respected and in-demand artists today. He has sold over 115 million records all over the world as a singer, producer and songwriter. A recipient of a number of prestigious awards, Mars has also catalogued 22 Billboard "Hot 100" hits. He was named as one of the top 100 most influential people in the world by Time Magazine in 2011, and was ranked number 1 on the Forbes 30 under 30 list in 2014.

Watch Bruno Mars live on March 22, courtesy of Max's Restaurant. Just 'like' Max's on Facebook and fill up the online entry form. Every day, one fan will be chosen to win 2 Moonshine Jungle tickets for free! For more updates, visit Max's Restaurant's Facebook fan page or log on to www.maxschicken.com.

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