Steak Fix at Terrasse Bistro

Been wanting to blog about this bistro for so long already but I thought of blogging this when I have enough visits and tried a couple of dishes so I could give a better review.

And after a series of celebratory visits, I've finally decided what my favorite dish in Terrasse Bistro is. It's their Steak Frites. It's relatively heavenly in taste. I guess the cream sauce makes it more interesting and very tasty. You really have to try it yourself when you pay them a visit.

To be honest, every time I visit Terrasse, I always order Steak Frites or if I want to try another dish, I'd let my companion order it so I could still have a bite or two. It's just your go-to dish and more like a comfort food in a classy setup.

Beef Parmentier: minced US Hanger steak, creamy mash, cheese

If you're a big fan of creamy mash and cheese, then this is my suggestion for you. There's a balance of everything in it and the beef is cooked just right. Also, the salad on the side matches the flavor of the main dish. Just keep in mind when ordering this, you might want to skip ordering another side dish as one is already heavy enough. (But in my case, I loved their creamy mash so much that I ended up ordering another one. lol!)

BBQ Pork Rib - Jack and Coke BBQ Sauce, Coleslaw

With their Pork Rib, it was just good. I tried to eat it on its own and decide whether it deserves to be taken that way, with rice, or with its pre-selected side dish (coleslaw). I guess, it's best eaten alone or with a bottle of beer/wine. But if you're feeling like you want to have a heavy dinner, go ahead and pair it with rice, mash or anything you like. (Disclaimer: I'm not a big fan of coleslaw, thus, the decision)

Steak Frites- US Beef Shoulder Steak, salad, cognac cream sauce

And above is my fave. I guess, everyone's instant fave when dining there. This dish deserves a second and a third helping. (lol!) But however tasty this is, it's best eaten as soon as it's served especially when dining inside since when you relatively eat super slow, like me some times, the sauce tends to dry up and get thick--ending up ruining its main taste.

Braised US Beef Belly

Beef Parmentier, Braised US Beef Belly and BBQ Pork Rib were three of their main courses that I've also tasted aside from their Steak Frites. They were all good as well. Worth of its price if you ask me. I also tried their Garden Salad, merlot, and muscovado creme brulee. 

Other people would say they are a bit pricey but I guess for the taste, the ambiance, and the service, you'll be paying just right and accordingly. And again, spending on good food is never money wasted. :)

I will definitely come back here whenever I feel the craving for their Steak Frites kick in again. And who knows? They might add more dishes we'll all love in the long run. So if you're craving for some French cuisine and a good run for your steak longings, then this bistro might be your best bet.

XOXOX,

Faye

Paying them a visit any time soon?
Saving you the time of looking for more info. See below for more deets. And you're welcome by the way! ;)

Terrasse Bistro,
F114, The District Ayala North Point
Talisay City

Landline Number: (034) 707 7002
Store Hours: 11AM-2PM and 6PM-11PM
Cuisine: French

Sky Lounge Dinner: Blue Elephant at Apple One

BLUE ELEPHANT at Apple One

I’ve always been a fan of sky lounge setting especially dinners. I’d love to dine while enjoying a good view of the city. I don’t really mind if it’s the highest floor or the tallest building-I’m all for the unique dining setup it brings.

On my latest trip to Cebu, I wanted my visit to include a dinner or a lunch date with a sky lounge setup so I browsed through various places offering what I wanted. Among my ‘places-to-try’ are: Lantaw, Blue Elephant at Apple One, and a restau from Crown Regency Hotel.

Given the unruly weather when I got there, I didn’t consider going to Lantaw anymore since I heard it was a little hard going up there. And being left with two choices, I chose Blue Elephant because it was strategically nearer than my hotel and Ayala Cebu. (In fact, it was right beside the mall!)

I had a table reservation for dinner and as soon as we got there, I instantly had a lot on my mind. Pros and Cons. I suggest in dining up there, one should reserve your expectations as it can go from what you expected to a total opposite setup.

The place was totally blue. The lights and the whole setting. It was a cozy lounge-perfect for coffee/wine in the afternoon. However, it was relatively small for a restau serving dinner (although, there was a VIP lounge, an indoor and an outdoor area that you can choose from).

For the food:

It was really good. Dishes were unique and had a different take on the mix of Asian cuisine. It’s also budget-friendly and the serving is huge. Despite the bipolar weather trying to ruin the outdoor setting, the food made up for it.

Korean Premium Back Ribs

Frozen Iced Tea

Bagoong Fried Rice

Buttered Fish Fillet with Garlic

All in all, the experience was good. I got my sky lounge fix; a great view of the city; and good food. It was a great date after all.

Although a little pointers if you’re planning on dining there too:

• It gets really crowded at night so make necessary reservations ahead.
•  If you’re very vain with your hair, choose the indoor setting as the wind gets tough up there. It might ruin your date if you’ll fuss about it all night.
• IT MIGHT RAIN. So again, indoor setting is your best bet.
•  EDM songs are usually played outdoors-that’s up to you to decide. But there are live bands to entertain you in some days so ask away upon reservation. 
• If you’re in Ayala Cebu, forget the cab-you can walk going there.
• There's a cover charge of 350php per person for those who wants to eat at the VIP Lounge, and 300php per person for the roof deck. Both charges are consumable.

That was my Blue Elephant experience at Apple One.

 A little crazy but it was still worth it.

XX,

Faye

***

Blue Elephant at Apple One is located at AppleOne Equicom Tower, Mindanao Ave, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu.

Open from 5PM till midnight daily (except on Fridays and Saturdays when it closes at 1AM

Call them at  511-7600 for more inquiries or reservations.

Finding Comfort (Food) at Bistro Carcosa

BISTRO CARCOSA

Finding new cafes in Iloilo City has been a craze lately. The search for the best has always been a constant battle. The list of new places to dine keeps on getting longer and longer.

And on my latest quest, I’ve finally had the chance to dine in Bistro Carcosa. I’ve always wanted to try it out there but to no avail since I’d always have a busy schedule in going to the city or my shopping time gets a little longer. lol!

But as a self-proclaimed foodie, I never missed my chance on trying out this café when my schedule finally cleared up.

The place was cozy- a little minimalist with a rustic feel. My kind of café.

As soon as we got there (convinced my mom to go with me), the place was already inviting. Although you can’t easily spot it along the highways or streets as it’s found in the corner area of the Uptown Place. Still, being an eager beaver, we headed in.

When we had our lunch, at the most unlikely hour, there were a few people who were also dining. And I thought this place must really be good that even after past the regular lunch time, it was still packed with diners.

For the food:

It's price-worthy and the taste was uniquely good. It’s a comfort food with a classy look. Absolutely gastronomical. (Or at least in my case and based on the dish that I tried)

Big Boy Ribs x Garlic Mashed potato

Truly coming back to try more of their dishes and as such, I highly recommend this bistro. 

xx

Faye

Bistro Carcosa is located at the Uptown Place, in front of Sarabia Manor Hotel.

Open from 11AM-11:45PM ( Monday- Sunday)

Tom N Tom's Coffee, BCD

"Life begins after coffee."

Palpitations aside, guess I've found another go-to coffee place. Located at the 26th Lacson Street in Bacolod is Tom N Tom's Coffee Shop.

Knowing that their branch in Bacolod is the flagship store in the Philippines--makes me feel so lucky and happy. (That means, it's just a drive away!)

Cute spot at Tom N Tom's

 Tom N Tom's Coffee Shop is a very spacious cafe. I think it can accommodate around 200-250 people all at the same time. Surely you can have your me-time in one corner; smoke and lounge with your buddy at the smoking area; or have your circle of friends gathered at another spot. It's like a mini coffee city if you ask me. ;)

Iced Cafe Latte and Iced Cafe Mocha

Being an international brand, specifically a Korean franchise, the price of their drinks pretty much resembles that of SB's. Drinks also comes in sizes: Tall, Grande and Venti. Different merchandise are also sold inside the shop, just across the main counter. You can choose from cute mugs, to beans, and even coffee grinders! Coffee shopping is really fun after all.

They also serve a couple of pastries and their famous pretzels in various flavors, sizes and dips. What's more--they make them right in front of you! Now that's a treat after another, right?  ;) 

Honey Butter Bread and Green Tea Tomnccino

Overall, I love the place as much as I love coffee. For the taste of their coffee, it has a different and unique blend--another one to try if you haven't yet. It's definitely worth-it! OR- just give it a try because I'm a little biased when it comes to my lattes (I prefer mine with just the right coffee kick and the lightest blend of milk).

Now if you're heading to Tom N Tom's Coffee anytime soon, just make sure to come early to have a convenient parking space just beside the shop. It usually gets crowded in the small street adjacent and in some cases, you'll have to walk a short distance to a much spacious parking area. 

Enjoy your coffee and let me know how your visit went. :)

XOXOX

Faye

ALLO' ALLO BISTRO, BCD

"Eat whatever you want, and if anyone tries to lecture you about your weight, eat them too."

On my latest food hunt and discovery, I've come to Allo'Allo Bistro, where my continental cravings met quality taste. Being a self-proclaimed foodie, I've always believed that when good food meets good service, it's always a winning combination.--And on my fair share of not-so-good combinations, I think I've finally found another one of my fave restaus. :)

Here are some of the dishes I've tried out.

                                                     

 SPAGHETTI CARBONARA.

 [Cream sauce with parmesan cheese and bacon]

 

  FUDGE BROWNIE.

[Rich brownie served with ice cream]

CHICKEN PROVENCAL.

[Coated pan fried chicken breast in butter with onions, white wine and parsley]

COTES DE PORC. 

[Pan fried pork chop with mustard sauce and cream]

 

BREWED COFFEE

From what I've been told, they only serve fresh food every day.  Thus, if you're not yet pleased with that note though, I personally experienced the fine-dining service treatment they did even when I only had a cup of coffee. So if you get what I mean right now, then I guess it's time for you to check them out, too!  Trust me, your money is worth it. and--you're welcome by the way! ;)  ;)

xoxox

-Faye

Allo'Allo Bistro is located at the 3rd Floor of the Hi Strip 4 Building, Circumferential Rd.
Open Daily from 10AM-11PM

Beans & Bros. Cafe, Bacolod

BEANS & BROS. CAFE, Bacolod

Beans & Bros. Cafe currently branched out in Bacolod- located at the Northpoint Atrium Building.

It's a quaint cafe with a touch of modern vibe and a London-inspired selection.

Entering the cafe, you'll feel at home with the very relaxing setup and welcoming crew. The place can approximately accommodate 25 persons at the same time. It's a relatively small cafe where one can really spend quality time alone (or study) over a good cup of coffee or raspberry soda.

For a local cafe, the price range is wallet-friendly. Their food selection come in handy starting at around 90Php; and drinks at roughly below a hundred. 

Pasta Alfredo x Green Apple Soda

From their menu, I've tasted two of their pasta dishes - Alfredo and Aglio Olio. Their Pasta Alfredo is winning my taste-buds and I'm giving them a high rate of 9.5 right there! You really shouldn't miss out on that dish. (I even came back for it! haha)

I also tried out their Beef Tapa. It's so delicious and I'm currently giving it an 8/10 Because I think it should really come with an egg or something to balance it out. Its flavor was so full and rich though. 

For the drinks, I've tried out their Green Apple Soda (or Fizz) and their Iced Irish Mocha. As for the soda, it was the typical thirst-quencher, thus 7/10. Their Iced Irish Mocha however was close to perfection. It was not too strong, the nice coffee kick was there and it was not too sweet either. It's a good 8.5. ;)

But anyway, it all boils down to how I find it. Go try 'em out and tell me how you think.

Alright? Have a great day!

Much love, 

Fayemos

Heading to Beans & Bros. Cafe soon?
Click the link below for more of their deets.
beans&broscafe

Stop Spot Cafe, BCD

STOP SPOT CAFE, Bacolod

Located at the 13th of Lacson Street in Bacolod is Stop Spot Cafe--An Asian-Fusion Restaurant perfect for your cravings!

Entering the cafe gives you a welcoming vibe and a clean ambiance. If you're the type who enjoy eating at a cozy place with less people, then this is the perfect place for you.

Talk about back ribs, chicken pesto, sisig, garlic chicken, sinigang and a few more, they have it all in their menu. Their food selection might be limited but it has mostly the usual cravings you get for lunch.

Starting at 100php, you'll already have your cravings fixed. ;)

Clockwise from upper left: Garlic Chicken, Chicken Pesto and Back Ribs + a pitcher of Iced Tea

That's me and my college buddies. :)

From what I've tried (chicken pesto), I'm giving it a strong 7/10 rating. Their chicken is a little too cooked and their pesto sauce tends to dry too quickly plus the butter in it separates a bit. Needs a little work on the sauce but it was all good and a hearty lunch indeed.

Heading to Stop Spot soon? 

Find their contact deets here. (Click the link below)

Link to Stop Spot Cafe

Much love,

Fayemos

Make shift OMELETTE Recipe

Hey guys! Sharing with you my make-shift recipe on making a quick omelette. This one is perfect for those in a rush or really hungry(like me) and doesn't have the time to prepare much.

What you'll need:

• An Egg
• 1/4 cup Fresh Milk
• 2 tbsps Unsalted Butter
• 1 small tomato (cut to smaller bits)
• 2 tbps mayonnaise
• beans (optional)

 Steps:

1.  Alright, the procedure is easy-peasy. Start off by heating your frying pan. Set to low heat. 
2.  In a separate bowl, combine the egg, milk and mayonnaise.Set aside.
3. Add in the butter and toss the tomato bits. Stir for about a minute. You can stir in optional bits of your desired mixture (ham, spam, chicken, onions or anything you like).
4. Add in the combined mixture of milk, egg and mayo. Stir until fluffy.
5. Transfer in a plate. 
6. For the beans: Cut into 2-3 inches and wash with cold water. Add a tbsp of butter in the same pan used for the omelette and toss the beans over. stir for 2 minutes and serve together with the omelette.
7.  Serve immediately. Enjoy it with toasted bread or rice. :)

There you have it, - the  No-fail recipe perfect for your lazy self. haha

(And you can even score the ingredients straight from your fridge!)

Try it yourself and tell me how your omelette went. ;)

Til then,

Fayemos

 xoxox

TOP 10 MILK TEA PLACES IN BACOLOD

From the City of Smiles (and Sweets), Bacolod, I've come up with a list of the top places to have your milk-tea cravings fixed. Aside from Iced coffees and milk-shakes, milk-tea has been a go-to drink for people in Bacolod. Whether just for thirst-quenching or chilling purposes, there's a lot of reasons why milk-tea became a hit in 6100.

---

So, in no particular order, here's the top 10 milk tea stations you don't want to miss out. 

1. TREAHOUSE

 Prices start at 85php for their classic milk teas.

The first thing that comes to my mind when I hear the word(s) "milk- tea", is wintermelon. And by far serving the best blend (for me) of such flavor, is Treahouse.

I also love their Barista's Secret and Honeydew Milk teas.



Don't miss out on: 
Red Velvet Crepes



Treahouse is located at the Dream 21 Bldg, 21st Lacson Street.










2. 365 MODERN CAFE

Milk teas start at 90php

Creating the perfect blend of Caramel, Almond and Taro milk teas for me, is 365 Modern Cafe.

Nothing beats a perfect cup together with a very cozy ambiance. The modernized feel of sophistication in 365 is what you will love while having a drink.

Don't miss out on: 
Blueberry Cheesecake



Find 365 Modern Cafe along BS Aquino Drive. In front of Northpoint Atrium Bldg.








3. QUALITEA

Milk Teas start at 80php. Qualitea rocks, at 100php. 

Having two branches in the city makes qualitea the most convenient milk-tea place in Bacolod. 

As my pick for their milk-tea, you can have their wintermelon and cocoa with rocksalt and cheese.

And lately, I've discovered their qualitea rocks in Matcha flavor. It's definitely a catch.

Don't miss out on:  

Shawarma Habibi

Visit Qualitea at 10th Lacson Street across Crave Burger or at Northdrive, Villamonte beside the Huan Thong Temple

4. ZENTEA

Milk teas prices start at 65php only.

Now who doesn't love Zentea?

Aside from being wallet-friendly, it is very accessible for students to hang out and chill.

I love their Choc-tea and Naicha Milk teas paired with pudding or pearls.

Don't miss out on:  

Red Velvet Crinkles Eruption

Spot Zentea at the Mainstrip Alley, La Salle Avenue. (Just in front of USLS Gate 2 exit)

5. MOONLEAF

Price of their milk teas start at 70php

As soon as moonleaf branched out here in Bacolod, it became an instant fave.

Must be their perfect blend of Hakka or Oolong Milk teas. Pair it with their Nata or pudding and you're good to go.

They currently have another branch open at Mainstrip La Salle too.

Catch their main branch at Vision Square, 21st St., San Agustin Drive

6. I LOVE MILK TEA

Milk tea starts at 45 pesos only! :)

This newly-opened milk tea shop is really making a hit in the city. With its wide selection of flavors, you sure will have a go-to drink in no time.

From what I've tried, I love their Royal milk tea and Classic Wintermelon blend.

Don't miss out on:  

Their milk tea pillows! :)

Catch I Love Milk Tea at La Salle Avenue, beside Jollibee.

*NOTE*
This has been the previous spot for Dakasi Milk Tea. However, the store stopped its operation and closed down so I had to replace it. Luckily, I Love Milk Tea came right on time. I will surely miss Dakasi though. (BUT--You can still catch them at the Smallville Complex in Ilo-Ilo)  :)





7. PEARLS AND BUBBLES

RSC Drinks start at 80php

Chill with your friends at Pearls and Bubbles. Having two branches in the city, they sure might've caught more people loving their blend.

From their array of flavors, I love their Oolong and Mocha Milk teas. Their sinkers are fine and not too tender.

Don't miss out on:  

Freedom Wall and Leaf Chairs! :)

Find Pearls and Bubbles at the Azotea, Mandalagan. Also at their second branch at the La Salle Ave.

8. SHARETEA

Price starts at 85php

With the widest selection I can think of in the city, Sharetea has everything you crave.

From their best-sellers and my personal picks as well, are the classic sharetea milk tea, QQ happy family, Taiwan and Cantaloupe.

Don't miss out on: 
Pepper Chicken! (and wasabi chicken too! )





Find Sharetea at 15th Lacson Street beside L'fisher Hotel









9. MANG CHA-A

Milk Teas start at 50php only!

Serving the most affordable milk-tea but with good quality is Mang Cha-a.

From what I've tried, I love their wintermelon milk tea the most. Pair it with grass jelly or pearls for an added goodness in your cup.

Don't miss out on: 
Yakult Milk teas





Find Mang Cha-a at SM City, Bacolod











10. TOKYO BUBBLE TEA

Milk teas start at 115php

Milk tea has never been this quirky. People in Bacolod are so lucky to have Tokyo Bubble Tea branch out at the city.

To the cafe serving thousands of little pearls (aka bubbles), it's always a great fix with a cup of royal milk tea or honey dew.

Don't miss out on: 
California Maki! :)

Catch Tokyo Bubble Tea at the Central City Walk, Robinsons Place, Bacolod

So there you have it, guys. Craving yet? ;)

I hope this post serves a bit of informational to you 

and feel free to comment or send me a message for other deets and questions. 

Much love, 

Faye

Everything Strawberry

Welcome to my quick three-point guide on the top three places not-to-miss in the City of Pines, 

Baguio City, Philippines. 

             After 6 long years, so much has changed in Baguio and the change I must admit is really good. No wonder it still ranks one of the top summer getaway places in the country. Of all the magnificent cultural spots in Baguio, it is really a tough decision to make the top three choices. So, in no particular order, I recommend you to visit: Burnham Park, Strawberry Farm and Minesview Park.

1. BIKE, BOAT or BE an IGOROT 'round BURNHAM PARK.

            To start with, I suggest you check in at hotels (or inns) near Burnham since everything else will come in handy as it is close to being the heart of the city. From there, you will have a couple of options to begin with. Whether you want to rent the bikes, go boating in the lagoon, rent some roller skates, eat or rent igorot costumes, it's all up to you.

 

             From the wide array of bikes to choose from, you'll end up tired from trying all of them! But seriously speaking, you can enjoy riding a single bike from fancy colors you like or take the part in renting the one with the side-car. You and your companions will surely enjoy the ride. :)

For the bikes, it will cost you 50php per hour. 

            After an hour of biking, we found ourselves hooked to the talk-of-the-town, Strawberry Taho. 

It is common for Filipinos to eat this type of concoction made of soy, little sago pearls and sweet sugary syrup. In Baguio though, it has been a trend of adding an extra ingredient which is the queen of their harvest- strawberries! It's heaven in a cup! Cliche as it may sound but it really tasted a whole lot better compared to the ordinary ones. How I wish Strawberry Taho are sold all around the country too!

For 15 pesos a cup, it's all good.

             

               After the lovely treat, we headed to the side area of the boating lagoon to have a quick OOTD change. We rented Igorot costumes for only 10 pesos for a set complete with the top, skirt, head piece and accessories. We felt like natives in an instant! :)

             Meanwhile, you can try other activities we found not really necessary (since we've already tried them out years ago and nothing much has changed then) during our recent trip like the roller skating and boating. BUT  I still recommend for you to try them since your trip won't just be complete without the experience especially if it's your first time.

2. VISIT THE STRAWBERRY FARM; PICK THEM BERRIES.

            Off we proceed to another favorite spot of mine, The Strawberry Farm. Located a couple more of kilometers away from the metro, in La Trinidad part of Benguet, comes the vast plantation of strawberries. You can literally say it's Strawberry Land. 

           

             Given a few hours to digest this beautiful scenery, we made use of the given time for us to enjoy picking berries. For a basket, you can fill it up with the strawberries you personally handpicked and only charge you 400 pesos for a kilo you can fill. It was a fun activity you will really enjoy. 

            

              If you want to spare yourself from the hassle of picking and the unpredictable mud that might surprise you say (rainy time), you can opt to buy a sealed pack of strawberries at affordable rates. However, it's a different experience to handpick them on your own and carefully select the ones you'll be consuming. Also, the basket might look tiny for a kilo, but don't worry, your other companions can share the fun and divide the weight (for the same price) of the handpicked berries afterwards.

            From the farm comes a long array of souvenir booths having all strawberry goodies from biscuits to crinkles, wine, jam, coin purses, key-chains and everything strawberry. And along the streets are a couple more vendors of authentic strawberry ice creams. They use honey instead of sugar in making such so it's more tasty and healthy. If you're not a big fan but still want to try, they offer free tastes in little spoons and trust me, you will not just try-you will end up buying a cone of your own. 

3. ENJOY THE VIEW AT MINESVIEW.

              As the breath-taking view would make you feel cozy up in the mountains, so as the feeling of comfort taking a break from the city life. This ancestral house welcoming you upon arriving at the Minesview Park stores a lot of precious antiques. From the footsteps climbing up to the traces of the early settlers living in this area- are all visible in the way they presented the interior of their little museum. 

            Above you can see an old bottle of wine. I wonder if it's the first strawberry wine ever made and how good will it have to taste now. Below would then be the organic red rice the early settlers are proud of. Their harvest is really bountiful I must say. And also, a photo of an Igorot is displayed right there. The rest of the house is filled with molded clays and souvenirs up for sale.

 

Moving out and around the area, you can see a lot of vendors selling 'Everlasting' flowers. They look cute as garlands to me but I really haven't had the chance of asking what they were really for. 

             Then comes right after is the long line of the people wanting to take a photo op with this St. Bernard dog. It wasn't any different from any other family dogs except maybe of its size and its not common here in the country. Also, he is well-trained and really entertaining with his ability to make such cute and adorable moves.

 Look at him sporting a new pair of sunnies almost like mine! I want to adopt him!

And hey, if you thought Nicki Minaj is not a resident of the country, you might want to think again. The photo below shows the horse I called Nicki, sporting a pink hair and a colorful body outfit. Bet she could rap too!

 

Say Super Bass! :)

You can also ride Nicki and other horses. You can choose to just have a photo taken or stroll around the park with different horses. 

            So there you have my top three places in Baguio. Of course you can stick to the classics like: Camp John Hay, The Mansion, PMA and many else. Although I suggest you stick to more lively places for your second (and succeeding) visits since there's no much of fun in those places aside from having an obligatory photo as a remembrance or a proof you've been there. I'm not stopping you though. Also, I've heard of a haunted hotel, Treetop Adventure and a Dinosaur Island somewhere in Baguio and that, I might come back for.

Heading to Baguio any time soon? My next entry will be all about essentials and all you need to take note when hitting the road. Have a great day! :)

Much love,

Faye