Ramen Ron x Pilya’s Kitchen: Limited Period Spicy Collaboration and More (Rockwell Makati City)
56 Estrella, Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Aside from the rainy day mood, another reason for us to go all the way to Ramen Ron is its limited period spicy collaboration with Pilya's Kitchen.
Food
A Spicy Collab Ramen Ron x Pilya's Kitchen (Aug 5-31, 2026)
As a spicy lover, how can we ever missed this? This is probably the very first spicy collaboration between two Michellin-recognized establishments in the Philippines.
| ♥ Mapo Tofu Ramen (690 php) |
The Mapo Tofu Ramen features Ramen Ron's silky fowl shoyu (soy sauce based) broth and ramen noodles combined with Pilya's Kitchen's Mapo Biang less the signature hand-pulled biang biang noodles.
| ♥ Mapo Tofu Ramen (690 php) |
We actually enjoyed this contemporary fusion dish of the Japanese ramen and Chinese mapo tofu noodles. Because Pilya's Kitchen's mapo tofu sauce clings wonderfully to Ramen Ron's ramen noodles, each slurp unfolds with a full-bodied flavor profile, accompanied by a lingering numbing mala sensation.
| ♥ Mapo Tofu Ramen (690 php) |
It was difficult to draw the line between the silky fowl shoyu broth and the mapo tofu sauce because they seemlessly blend together. The silky fowl shoyu broth brought out the richness of the mapo tofu sauce with minced pork, soft tofu cubes, fermented black beans and sichuan peppercorns.
We've always had an inkling that the Japanese gyoza would go well with the Chinese chili oil. But, we never dared to experiment.
Even if we did, we're pretty sure we couldn't have executed it as well as this Mala Gyoza. There no better way to compliment the Ramen Ron's plump and juicy pan-fried dumplings than to tantalize the palate with the distinct tongue-numbing spicy mala tingle.
Chef's Recommended Ramen Toppings
| ♥ Ukkokei Beef Shoyu Ramen (840 php) |
At Ramen Ron, you can order the original version of the ramen and add some Extras as your preferred topping or go with the Chef's Recommended Ramen Toppings. As an example, the original Ukkokei Beef Shoyu Ramen (at 690 php) is the silky fowl ramen topped with thinly sliced ribeye, steak fat bits, bamboo shoots and onion leeks. If you go with the Ukkokei Beef Shoyu Ramen (at 840 php) under the Chef's Recommended Ramen Toppings, you can get the same ramen with Aji Tamago (85 php) and Nori (65 php).
P.S. The CPA did the math and has verified that there's no premium when you avail of the chef's recommendation. The Extras are charged the same way. 😆
Sweets
We were happy with our choice — Matcha Chilled Mochi.
| Matcha Chilled Mochi (140 php) |
The Chilled Mochi comes in 3 variants: Matcha, Milk and Mango.
| Matcha Chilled Mochi (140 php) |
We were happy with our choice — Matcha Chilled Mochi.
Drinks
| Grape Fruit Shake (250 php) |
The drinks are pleasant enough but are only recommended if you have a little extra budget to spare.
Tsinoy Foodies Verdict
Ramen Ron has consistently a comforting contemporary take on ramen. The limited period spicy collaboration was executed just as well.
| Tsinoy Foodies Review Rating | Ramen Ron Rockwell Map | |
| Ambiance | ★★★★ | |
| Taste | ★★★★ | |
| Service | ★★★ | |
| Price | ★★★ | |
| ♥=Favorites or Recommended | ||
| Ramen Ron | |
| Business Address | Rockwell (Flagship) Ground Floor, Edades Tower, Rockwell Center, Amorsolo Drive, Makati City Bonifacio Global City (BGC) Ground Floor, Central Square, 5th Avenue corner 30th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City |
| Business Hours | Sunday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Payment Options | |
| Service Charge | 10% |
| Budget/Person | 500-1,200 |
| Free WiFi | No |
| Contact | (0917) 628-7245 |
| Menu | N/A |
Ebi10: Rating our Japanese Dinner with a Perfect 10 (One Ayala Mall Makati)
Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Since my little sister completed all her fellowship trainings as a endocrinologist and I has to carry the duties of a legal division chief, we could hardly find the time to chill and eat out like we used to.
Perhaps, it was destiny or a happy coincidence that we were both craving Japanese food and Ebi10 at One Ayala Mall turned out to be the perfect choice.
Although it had an unpretentious storefront adorned with softly glowing Japanese lanterns, inside lies a cozy and vibrant dining atmosphere. The sushi bar doubles as a cocktail bar and with DJ-station at the center, we can see how this relaxed dining space can transform into an elevated social lounge as the night unfolds.
Food
Sashimi
We are so glad we had the Salmon Aburi Nigiri for our starter. It is handsdown one of the best rendition of the Salmon Aburi Nigiri we've ever had!
I swear I almost cried in happy tears as the buttery norweigan salmon melted into my mouth and a burst of umami flavors from the salmon, while the uni delivered a pristine burst of sweet umami uni and finished with a harmonious blend of fragrant truffle, creamy Kewpie mayo, and savory teriyaki. Just from our teaser with the Salmon Aburi Nigiri, we knew we chose Ebi10 as the right choice.
Rolls
| Crazy Maki (420 php) |
We had such an elevated satisfaction from the Salmon Aburi Nigiri, it was simply impossible for the humble and classic Crazy Maki surpass. To be fair, it had everything you can expect from a Crazy Maki — kani, cucumber, mango kwepie, agedama, and ebiko.
Salads
| ♥ Spicy Tuna Salad (585 php) |
The Spicy Tuna Salad is another dish that brought delight our tongues. The soft tuna cubes was complemented by the explosive kick of the dinamite mayo and the pleasurable crisp of agedama (crunchy tempura batter) and fresh romaine lettuce.
Mains
| ♥ Truffle Ponzu Steak (825 php) |
If you're looking for a steak dish that won't make you break your diet and your budget, then go for the Truffle Ponzu Steak.
| ♥ Truffle Ponzu Steak (825 php) |
Despite its modestly thin slice, the Truffle Ponzu Steak delivers an intense fragrant flavor from the premium quality Australian tenderloin, crispy onion, kamote chips and truffle mushroom ponzu sauce.
Tempura
The fresh, sweet and jumbo-size shrimp perfectly coated in golden batter is worth every peso.
Chahan
The Vegetable Chahan is a surprise hit for us. We could never have imagined that a healthy bowl of rice, egg and mixed vegetables could be so good!
Sweets
| Banana Nutella (250 php/3 pcs) |
The Banana Nutella is another validation of the chef's precise frying skills. Just look at how the golden-coated banana slices could be beautifully laid atop a smear of nutella and accented by dulce de leche and sesame seeds.
Fruity & Fizzy
| ♥ Yuzu Fizz (220 php) and♥ Blueberry Fizz (220 php) |
Ebi10 is not just for good food, they serve amazing drinks too. We loved the refreshing palate-cleansing Yuzu Fizz and the cool and minty Blueberry Fizz we had.
Tsinoy Foodies Verdict
Ebi10's creatively-crafted Japanese dishes and drinks combined with its cozy atmosphere is sure to make any newcomer come back for more. We can't wait to try more from their extensive menu!
| Tsinoy Foodies Review Rating | Ebi10 Menu | |
| Ambiance | ★★★★ | N/A |
| Taste | ★★★★★ | |
| Service | ★★★★ | |
| Price | ★★★ | |
| ♥=Favorites or Recommended | ||
| Ebi10 | |
| Branches | One Ayala Makati Level 2 Alfresco, One Ayala Mall, Makati City (0962) 960-0895 | (0915) 920-6512 | (02) 7002-0366 Capitol Commons Meralco Avenue, Oranbo, Pasig City (0969) 610-8331 | (0936) 958-2522 | (02) 7000-02-88 Greenhills L136 G/F Greenhills Mall, Greenhills Shopping Center, Barangay Greenhills, Ortigas Ave., San Juan City (0967) 182-6425 | (0999) 804-4585 Eastwood G/F Tower 1, One Eastwood Ave., Eastwood City, Bagumbayan, Quezon City (0921) 924-3240 | (0956) 948-6317 | (02) 7001-9636 Ayala Malls Vermosa G/F Building E, Ayala Malls Vermosa, Daang Hari Road, Pasong Buaya 1, Imus, Cavite (0916) 466-3269 | (0921) 853-0796 |
| Business Hours | Mall Hours |
| Payment Options | |
| Service Charge | 10% |
| Budget/Person | 500-1,500 |
| Free WiFi | No |
| Contact | |
| Other | |
Cooking at home brings joy, but it’s the shared meals with family and friends that make the experience truly incomparable. Pasta is a family favorite for a reason—it’s comforting, versatile, and easy to prepare for both daily meals and special celebrations. Because there's a Doña Elena product for every cooking need, even anyone can effortless create their own inspired dishes with an authentic Italian flare.
As a leading and well-loved brand of olive oil and other Mediterranean cooking ingredients, Doña Elena continues to make gourmet cooking at home fun and accessible. The brand’s newest stars are the Doña Elena 100% Italian Premium Pasta Sauces — crafted from fresh, high-quality ingredients and made with no preservatives. Whether you’re cooking pasta, pizza, or creating dips and marinades, these sauces can transform everyday food into gourmet experiences.
The New Doña Elena 100% Italian Premium Sauces
Bring the taste of Italy home with these four versatile, flavorful sauces — perfect for home cooks and aspiring chefs alike. Pair them with your favorite dishes or experiment with new pasta creations that delight every palate.
- Doña Elena Marinara – With 100% Italian Tomatoes
Made with 100% Italian sun-ripened tomatoes slow-cooked to produce a hearty tomato sauce with fragrant herbs for a smooth, tangy, and savory taste.
- Best paired with: Spaghetti or Linguine, lasagna, chicken Parmesan, or roasted vegetables.
- Doña Elena Arrabbiata – With Italian Peppers
Nothing beats a classic Italian ingredient with a rich and tangy sauce. A fiery blend of sun-ripened tomatoes, bold chili peppers, and aromatic herbs, this sauce delivers a spicy kick and authentic Italian zest.
- Best paired with: Penne Rigate, fish, shrimp, or roasted vegetables.
- Doña Elena Artichokes & Walnuts Sauce
The ideal mix of creamy and nutty sauce that blends earthy artichokes with crunchy walnuts, and aromatic herbs for a gourmet twist.
- Best paired with: Fettuccine or Fusilli, pizza, bruschetta, or as a dip with crackers and veggies.
- Doña Elena Pesto Sauce – With Pecorino Cheese
A vibrant basil-based sauce enhanced with sunflower oil, parsley, and sharp Pecorino cheese for a creamy, robust finish.
- Best paired with: Linguine or Fusilli, grilled meats, roasted potatoes, or as a spread on sandwiches.
Bringing Italy to Your Table
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Camiña Balay Nga Bato: Artisan Tsokolate Batirol Served in a Heritage Home Built in 1865 (Arevalo District Iloilo City)
Iloilo City, Iloilo, Philippines
Our visit to Camiña Balay Nga Bato is one of the most memorable Heritage Tours I've had.
And, of course, I bought some Chocolate Tablea.
We're so happy to support Camiña Balay Nga Bato as a National Museum-recognized important cultural property in 2015.
Curio Heritage Shop
So before proceeding to our intended agenda, we checked out the assortment of local products sold at the Curio Heritage Shop.
We were greeted by the staff who oriented us about their offerings.
Upon choosing a guided tour, we were escorted to a simple living room or sala to watch a 10-minute video tour about the place.
We were then given some time to explore and take photos.
And, for me that made the simple offering of Camiña Balay Nga Bato an authentic experience for cultural immersion.
For only 200 php, you can enjoy a two (2) rounds of their premium tsokolate de batirol served with a bowl of local biscuits. Just ring the bell for a refill! If you're lucky, they will even offer a complimentary third round.
| ♥ Tsokolate de Batirol and Local Biscuits |
As we sipped on our Tsokolate de Batirol, nibbled on Local Biscuits, I felt a deep gratitude for the rare gift of slowness and presence as we were embraced by the cool breeze and homey ease. We could never enjoy such privilege in the bustle of Manila.
The Tsokolate de Batirol is so thick and rich that you can already feel the caffeine kick from a small cupfull. Thus, the two rounds is just enough! We even had to ask for a glass of water to help us finish it.
Tsinoy Foodies Verdict
Camiña Balay Nga Bato is a must visit in Iloilo City. Yes, this is an encouraging invite to all of you to support one of the few heritage homes left in the Philippines! The experience is truly one of a kind and reasonably priced.
| Tsinoy Foodies Review Rating | Camiña Balay Nga Bato Menu | |
| Ambiance | ★★★★ | Menu |
| Taste | ★★★★ | |
| Service | ★★★ | |
| Price | ★★★ | |
| ♥=Favorites or Recommended | ||
| Camiña Balay Nga Bato | |
| Business Address | 20 Osmeña Street, brgy Sta. Felomina Arevalo, Iloilo City, Philippines |
| Business Hours | 8am-6pm |
| Payment Options | Cash |
| Service Charge | N/A |
| Budget/Person | 200-500 |
| Free WiFi | No |
| Contact | (0947) 891-1467 |
| Other | Facebook Fan Page |
Breakthrough Restaurant: Seafood Galore and More Since 1986 (Iloilo City, Iloilo)
Iloilo City, Iloilo, Philippines
While I've had food trips on some Philippines regions before, this meal shared with our academic and intellectual work partners offered a distinct and unforgettable pleasure.
It may have been a fitting conincidence that they suggested to dine at "Breakthrough Restaurant" because it was here that I experience a breakthrough discovery about myself.
Listening to our senior partners — emeritus professors — share insights and experiences from their past development projects over good local dishes left me deeply inspired about our generation’s potential to make a difference.
Set by the coast in Iloilo City, Breakthrough Restaurant charms both local and tourist alike by serving fresh seafood specialties enhanced by the cool sea breeze dining experience.
Although we ordered from the frozen fish counter, we surmised that they were freshly caught because we saw live fishes swimming in the pools nearby.
After deciding on our fish soup, we proceeded to the next counter where food choices are displayed. I found this set-up quite peculiar because this turo-turo (point-point) style is usually adopted in small road-style eateries around the Philippines and not by large-scale restaurants. Upon pointing on our choices, the staff lists them down the orders to be delivered at our table.
If you're like our boss who prefers to just order by sitting down, you can also do so.
Food
Starters and Specials
But, I suggest that you stand up because some items that are displayed like the Lato Salad (grape seaweed) are not in the regular menu.
| ♥ Sizzling Crabmeat (300 php) |
The Sizzling Crabmeat is pure juicy crab meat with tomato, chili and corn served in a hot sizzling plate.
Vegetables
The Chopsuey is served with a generous variety of vegetables.
Pork
Beef | Mutton
The Caldereta is a spicy tomato-based stew filled with tender beef, potato and carrot slices.
Native Chicken
Tsinoy Foodies Verdict
Breakthrough's dining experience is definitely one of a kind. No wonder it been loved by locals and tourists alike since 1986. With so much choices, you will surely have a new seafood to try on your next visit.
| Tsinoy Foodies Review Rating | Breakthrough Restaurant Menu | |
| Ambiance | ★★★★ | Menu |
| Taste | ★★★★ | |
| Service | ★★★ | |
| Price | ★★★★ | |
| ♥=Favorites or Recommended | ||
| Breakthrough Restaurant | |
| Business Address | Molo-Arevalo Boulevard Sto. Nino, Villa Arevalo, Iloilo City, Iloilo Province |
| Business Hours | 10am-9pm |
| Payment Options | |
| Service Charge | 10% |
| Budget/Person | 400-1,500 |
| Free WiFi | No |
| Contact | (033) 337 3027 |
| Other | Website |
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