A few weeks ago, I was invited to try Little Owls new menu. It was introduced as the latest addition to Lola Group of Companies. Although I have not tried any of their restaurants, I have heard a lot of raves about them from my foodie friends so I decided it was worth the travel from south to north.
Unlike most establishments in the area, it had a huge parking space which can cater to around 9 cars.
Unless you prefer al fresco, I don't see any reason why you would not want to enjoy its cozy indoor interiors.
The place looks so spacious, clean and refreshing.
There is also a function room or extended dining area on the second floor where we had our brunch.
Food
Eggs Benedict is actually one of my favorite choices for breakfast or brunch so I was glad that they offered a Salmon Benedict. This version has definitely passed my standards in terms of presentation, quality ingredients and serving portion.
Soups, Salads & Sandwiches
Another classic healthy option is the Caesar Salad. If you're less adventurous and want some greens, then go for this. It's best to eat it upon serving so you can enjoy the romaines natural crispiness.
All Day Brunch Plates
While it was mentioned in the menu that the All Day Brunch Plates are good for sharing, I am certain that I can finish a plateful of their Thick Cut Bacon Steaks on my own. I bet the men would be wishing more than me for more meat cuts. It is that delicious but short on portions.
Pancakes & Waffles
If there is one item I'd come back for at Little Owl Cafe, it would be the Fluffy Banana Pancake. The fluffy and bouncy pancakes reminded me of Japanese cheesecakes. I fell in love with it upon first bite.
Pasta
So we thought the Bolognese was their Wild Mushroom Pasta because it had mushrooms. I liked the sweet and tangy blend the tomato sauce.
Toasts
The Mushroom Tartine is a must try for mushroom lovers like me. But, it would have been even better if the cuts where smaller and equally distributed. Also, some parts didn't have pesto sauce on it.
I do understand that they were still under soft opening phase during our visit but I can't help but feel disappointed still that the first Grilled Cheese Sandwich is so cheesy like the one on my photo while the second one is so thin that I can't barely recognize the 2 kinds of cheese.
The chicken is crunchy on the outside and so juicy on the inside. However with the heavy and chewy waffle, the flavor of the chicken isn't as evident. The coleslaw is a great complement for both the chicken and waffle but it wasn't enough.
They use dory fish for their Fish N' Chips which I'm not a fan of. My table mates seemed to enjoy this though.
Tarts
I wasn't able to take a photo of their ♥ Chocolate Tart (120 php) because it was gone in an instant. I really loved how rich and bitter sweet it was.
Since I was invited and it was their soft opening phase, I will reserve my verdict for now. To be honest, the 30 minute or so serving interval in between the dishes could have influenced my thoughts on the food and overall brunch experience. To date, it was the longest brunch I have ever experienced (literally sat down from 11 am to past 3 pm). For now, all I can say is the ambiance is superb but it comes with a steep price than if you would prefer having breakfast at the neighboring fast food restaurant.
Unlike most establishments in the area, it had a huge parking space which can cater to around 9 cars.
Unless you prefer al fresco, I don't see any reason why you would not want to enjoy its cozy indoor interiors.
The place looks so spacious, clean and refreshing.
There is also a function room or extended dining area on the second floor where we had our brunch.
Food
Salmon Benedict |
Soups, Salads & Sandwiches
Caesar Salad (285 php) |
All Day Brunch Plates
Thick Cut Bacon Steaks (365 php) |
Pancakes & Waffles
♥ Fluffy Banana Pancake (220 php) |
Pasta
Bolognese |
Toasts
Mushroom Tartine |
Grilled Cheese Sandwich (220 php) |
Chicken Waffle Burger |
Fish N' Chips |
Tarts
I wasn't able to take a photo of their ♥ Chocolate Tart (120 php) because it was gone in an instant. I really loved how rich and bitter sweet it was.
Since I was invited and it was their soft opening phase, I will reserve my verdict for now. To be honest, the 30 minute or so serving interval in between the dishes could have influenced my thoughts on the food and overall brunch experience. To date, it was the longest brunch I have ever experienced (literally sat down from 11 am to past 3 pm). For now, all I can say is the ambiance is superb but it comes with a steep price than if you would prefer having breakfast at the neighboring fast food restaurant.
Little Owl Cafe | |
Business Address | 65 Broadway Ave., New Manila, Quezon City, Metro Manila |
Business Hours | 9am-9pm |
Payment Options | |
Service Charge | 10% |
Budget/Person | 300-600 |
Free WiFi | Yes |
Contact | (02) 501-2036 |
Other |
It's been awhile since I paid Osaka Ohsho a revisit. How timely that I was invited try their 9 new cross-cultural menu.
Let me start with my favorite Truffle Gyoza. The balance between the pork flavor and truffle oil is perfect.
For those who prefer a bolder and stronger flavor, the Chori Gyoza is for you.
The Nori Nachos is an addictive starter. Its wonderfully crisp without any hint of greasiness.
The Chicken Enoyaki is an upgraded version of the usual Chicken Teriyaki.
The Matcha Butter Tonkatsu is a peculiar twist even for an adventurous foodie like me. I felt that the matcha butter wasn't spread evenly so it I could hardly taste it.
The Salmon Cheese Aburi is my favorite among the new menu.
As opposed to the Gyoza Tantanmien which I didn't find striking enough.
Another must try is the Japanese Paella because of its rich, flavorful and creamy rice topped with my favorite Japanese seafood selections.
Last but not the least is the Black Pepper Gyudon. Instead of the usual sweet Gyudon, this has gone on the peppery side.
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♥ Truffle Gyoza |
Chori Gyoza |
♥ Nori Nachos |
Chicken Enoyaki |
Matcha Butter Tonkatsu |
♥ Salmon Cheese Aburi |
Gyoza Tantanmien |
Japanese Paella |
Another must try is the Japanese Paella because of its rich, flavorful and creamy rice topped with my favorite Japanese seafood selections.
Last but not the least is the Black Pepper Gyudon. Instead of the usual sweet Gyudon, this has gone on the peppery side.
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I've long been wanting to try Your Local. Finally, there was vacancy one weekend so we took the opportunity to dine.
With its dim lighting, you can barely see what's going on inside.
Upon stepping in, you'd understand why. The place is dark with low lighting and the wood furnitures furthers the dark appeal.
But, it's candle lighting gives a serene feel to it.
Food
Mains
My siblings who have tried Your Local insisted that first timers try the Torched Salmon Donburi so we ordered three of the same thing. According to my siblings, the serving size is now smaller and the price is higher. But, I think the serving size is just right as we had difficulty finishing our orders.
Ahia said he tried the Lamb Rendang before and it was also bigger. Again, I think the size is just enough for me. The flavor is strong that it gives me an impression that is heavier than it actually is.
I don't think I'll order one of this just for myself next time. I think this is more suitable to be shared although Your Local serving portion is for one individual meal of viand and staple.
Tsinoy Foodies Verdict
Your Local may not be as hot as it was but its still worth going back for despite the price increase. I will definitely go back when I crave for their one-of-a-kind Torched Salmon Donburi.
With its dim lighting, you can barely see what's going on inside.
Upon stepping in, you'd understand why. The place is dark with low lighting and the wood furnitures furthers the dark appeal.
But, it's candle lighting gives a serene feel to it.
Food
Mains
♥ Torched Salmon Donburi (595 php) |
♥ Lamb Rendang (595 php) |
Ahia said he tried the Lamb Rendang before and it was also bigger. Again, I think the size is just enough for me. The flavor is strong that it gives me an impression that is heavier than it actually is.
I don't think I'll order one of this just for myself next time. I think this is more suitable to be shared although Your Local serving portion is for one individual meal of viand and staple.
Tsinoy Foodies Verdict
Your Local may not be as hot as it was but its still worth going back for despite the price increase. I will definitely go back when I crave for their one-of-a-kind Torched Salmon Donburi.
Tsinoy Foodies Review Rating | Your Local Menu | |
Ambiance | ★★★★ | Start | Main 1 | Mains | Sides | Dessert | White Wine | Red Wine | Cocktails | Drinks | Beer | |
Taste | ★★★★ | |
Service | ★★★ | |
Price | ★★★ | |
♥=Favorites or Recommended |
Your Local | |
Business Address | 106 Esteban, Legazpi Village, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines |
Business Hours | 11am-2pm; 6pm-10pm |
Payment Options | |
Service Charge | 10% |
Budget/Person | 600-1,500 |
Free WiFi | No |
Contact | (0917) 654-3355 (02) 823-6206 |
Other |
Naimas Taste of Home: Northern Philippine Cuisine Here in Manila (SM Light Mandaluyong)
Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, Philippines
When I was invited to Naimas Taste of Home, the name clued me in that it would have Ilocano dishes.
It had a cozy and native-influenced al fresco area.
What awaits inside is a more spacious area. They even have a second floor.
Food
Mga Pulutan/Appetizers
The Sizzling Sisig and Crispy Garlic Isaw is worth the cholesterol.
But, I liked the Crispy Tawilis more. It was very crispy and not too salty.
I also loved the Sizzling Litid. I think I enjoyed most of this sizzling plateful.
Naimas Nachos is deep fried wanton with the usual nacho grande toppings. This is the perfect bar chow as it doesn't get soggy even after a long period of time.
Mga Paborito/Favorites
One of my favorite is the Adobong Hipon sa Aligue.
But, the Paksiw na Mata ng Tuna is just as good.
I was expecting the Pigar Pigar to have some liver. But, I guess it was all beef which was good too because it was tender and flavorful.
Definitely save some space for the Kinulob na Peking Duck. For the price, this is a steal!
Mga Gulay/Vegetables
The Gising Gising is the healthiest among all our orders. This is good but I guess everyone prefer the more sinful ones.
Well, I haven't had a Bulalo I didn't enjoy so I was also comforted by the warm and savory Sinigang na Bulalo.
This is my first time to try a goat dish here in Manila. Trying the Sinampalokang Kambing brought me back to my childhood memories.
I've spent some of my summer vacations at my mom's ancestral home in Ilocos Sur. Every time we'd go there, my uncle would have our staffs buy a goat. By the time we'd reach the house, there will be a live goat tied to the wooden post by the well. The dried well was said to bring good fortune to the family. The goat will be served to us for dinner as a special delicacy.
How I miss those care-free days. Everyday we would play with the neighborhood Ilocano boys (who used to bully and tease us by climbing up and make noise on our bed room window only to find out they just wanted to be playmates). We would run or bike towards the tobacco fields to play hide and seek, luksong baka, patintero and our favorite of all: tumbang preso. When we hear the church bell rings at 6 o' clock echoing across the entire town, we would head home for dinner which was the highlight of each day. The manangs would set up our marbled folding tables and pair it with plastic stools by the window side so we could have a wonderful dinner with scenic view of the night sky wonderfully lit by stars, plaza light and church light.
I think this is hands down the tastiest Pancit Canton I've ever had. And, look at the toppings... so many!
Pang-himagas/Desserts
Tsinoy Foodies Verdict
If you're looking for heart warming dishes from the Northern Philippine provinces, Naimas Taste of Home should definitely be on top of your list. Just expect the dishes to have a bolder taste and flavor than its native counterparts. But, based on the impressions of my fellow diners, they seem to like it better.
It had a cozy and native-influenced al fresco area.
What awaits inside is a more spacious area. They even have a second floor.
Food
Mga Pulutan/Appetizers
Sizzling Sisig (260 php) |
Crispy Garlic Isaw (240 php) |
♥ Crispy Tawilis (220 php) |
♥ Sizzling Litid (250 php) |
Naimas Nachos (260 php) |
Mga Paborito/Favorites
♥ Adobong Hipon sa Aligue (360 php) |
♥ Paksiw na Mata ng Tuna (280 php) |
But, the Paksiw na Mata ng Tuna is just as good.
Pigar Pigar (380 php) |
♥ Kinulob na Peking Duck (460 php) |
Mga Gulay/Vegetables
Gising Gising (210 php) |
♥ Sinigang na Bulalo (380 php) |
♥ Sinampalokang Kambing (320 php) |
I've spent some of my summer vacations at my mom's ancestral home in Ilocos Sur. Every time we'd go there, my uncle would have our staffs buy a goat. By the time we'd reach the house, there will be a live goat tied to the wooden post by the well. The dried well was said to bring good fortune to the family. The goat will be served to us for dinner as a special delicacy.
How I miss those care-free days. Everyday we would play with the neighborhood Ilocano boys (who used to bully and tease us by climbing up and make noise on our bed room window only to find out they just wanted to be playmates). We would run or bike towards the tobacco fields to play hide and seek, luksong baka, patintero and our favorite of all: tumbang preso. When we hear the church bell rings at 6 o' clock echoing across the entire town, we would head home for dinner which was the highlight of each day. The manangs would set up our marbled folding tables and pair it with plastic stools by the window side so we could have a wonderful dinner with scenic view of the night sky wonderfully lit by stars, plaza light and church light.
Pancit Canton Regular (350 php) |
Pang-himagas/Desserts
Turon sa Saba (120 php) |
Tsinoy Foodies Verdict
If you're looking for heart warming dishes from the Northern Philippine provinces, Naimas Taste of Home should definitely be on top of your list. Just expect the dishes to have a bolder taste and flavor than its native counterparts. But, based on the impressions of my fellow diners, they seem to like it better.
Tsinoy Foodies Review Rating | Naimas Taste of Home Menu | |
Ambiance | ★★★★ | Menu |
Taste | ★★★★ | |
Service | ★★★ | |
Price | ★★★ | |
♥=Favorites or Recommended |
Naimas Taste of Home SM Light | |
Business Address | G/F SM Light Mall, EDSA Corner Madison Street, Buayang Bato, Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila |
Business Hours | 10am-10pm |
Payment Options | |
Service Charge | N/A |
Budget/Person | 250-500 |
Free WiFi | No |
Contact | (02) 246-9069 ext:408 |
Other |
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