All thanks to Berylle and D, The Foodies Circle managed to book a few slots to BGC Eats Food Tour for the last date which was on July 20, 2013.  You could tell we were excited because we were there early and waited for the rest until the Hop On Hop Off Bus was ready to depart.

Our food tourist group is composed of a mix match of people.  They were families with little toddlers, yuppies and oldies as well. 

Music accompaniment during the entire tour is provided by Ukelele Manila.   While we were on the bus, our tour guide JJ Yulo gave out some trivias and facts about Bonifacio Global City.  There were also games in between the food stops and I managed to win myself a BGC Eco Bag.

First Stop: Vask
Vask is an upscale modern Spanish tapas bar.  Most of the tour time was spent there.  I'm glad it was our first stop.  It was a new discovery for us.  Being located at the 5th Floor of a fairly new CLIPP Center between 11th Avenue corner 39th Street,  it was not only conspicuous but also bit distant from the highlights of BGC for one to accidentally wind up there.

Tour Guide JJ YUlo and Chef J. Luis Gonzalez

Vask's Chef J. Luis Gonzalez who has worked in 5 out of the 10 Best restuarants in the world (Noma, El Celler De Can Roca, Mugaritz, Arzak and El Bulli) and former chef of Sofitel's Fever Luxe Lounge welcomed us.   He showed us the Degustation Art Gallery.  It was a private room where you can watch the your food as they are prepared.  Moreover, aside from the usual beautiful plating of the dishes, they will make use of their custom-made luxurious wares of intricate shapes and forms making the whole dining experience his masterpiece.  If I remember correctly, a full course meal will be priced at around 8,000 php per person.  They also have an outdoor part which they call Vask Deck.  You can enjoy the scenic sight of the tall buildings while you dine.

They served 5 types of pintxos.  Pintxos is their term for their tapas.  Unfortunately, it was not enough for everyone so we only got to try three of them.

Sous Vide Tuna, Garlic Chili Oil, Caramelized Onion, Piquillo Pepper (95 php/piece)

The Sous Vide Tuna, Garlic Chili Oil, Caramelized Onion, Piquillo Pepper had a pleasant sweet taste from the caramelized onion that complemented the natural sea flavors of tuna.  The pastry was perfectly crunchy which made every bite delightful. 

Eggplant, Parmesan, Garlic, Red Capsicum Confit w/ Quail Egg (95 php/piece)

The group was full of praise over the Eggplant, Parmesan, Garlic, Red Capsicum Confit w/ Quail Egg.  It had a slice of eggplant fried in batter similar to the Japanese tempura with a hint of zestiness from the parmesa and topped with garlic and red capsicum and fried quail egg.

Salmon and Crab Tartare (95 php/piece)

Being a fan of smoked salmon, I especially enjoyed the Salmon and Crab Tartare.  The medley of flavors are harmoniously composed with this one.  

Foie Gras on Mango Toast (695 php/5 pcs.)

The Foie Gras on Mango Toast may be an expensive little piece to spend on but definitely worth it!  The Foie Gras mousses melts in your mouth.  The slightly sweet and tangy mango did wonders in removing the awry fatty feeling I used to dislike when eating too much Foie Gras.

Petits Fours

The Petits Fours are small but rich dark chocolate truffles with Extra-Virgin Olive Oil.  This is a guilt-free meal ender. 


Second Stop: Orale!
It's been more than a year since I last visited Orale! The place still has it's sincere and fun vibe.  The gleeful and passionate owners Mr. and Mrs. Nikki Confiado prepared Tostadas and 2 new menu items: Chili Verde and Chilaquiles Verdes Con Pollo served buffet style.  While my companions found the new items too hot.  I actually loved it! 

We also got to try the Jarritos Mandarin and Mexican Cola.  It was certainly different from other sodas I've tried.  I wanna try the rest next time.

I'll been hearing a lot of buzz about Crystal Jade so I'm glad to finally see it for myself. 

Compared to other Chinese restaurants, it's interiors were more modern and minimalist.  The staffs are very hospitable that they made each of us feel like distinguished guest.

While waiting for the dishes to arrive, we were served their ice tea which tasted more of orange juice. 

Steamed Cream Custard Bun w/ Salted Egg Yolk (160 php/3 pcs.) and Baked Bo Lo Bbq Pork Bun (180 php/3 pcs.)

The Steamed Cream Custard Bun w/ Salted Egg Yolk looked like ordinary buns to me.  So, I was more intrigued by the Baked Bo Lo Bbq Pork Bun which had a top that reminded me of my all-time favorite Japanese pastry, the Melon Pan. 

 

Steamed Cream Custard Bun w/ Salted Egg Yolk (160 php/3 pcs.) and Baked Bo Lo Bbq Pork Bun (180 php/3 pcs.)

See how looks can be deceiving?  In reality it was really the Steamed Cream Custard Bun w/ Salted Egg Yolk which was unique and special.  A bite into its delicate soft bun made its delicious salted egg yolk fill my mouth and brought me to Nirvana.  On the other hand, other than the delicious crust top of the Baked Bo Lo Bbq Pork Bun, it was similar to an asado siopao.  

Sauteed E-Fu Noodles with Prawn and Mushroom Sauce

 While the Sauteed E-Fu Noodles tasted like prawn and crab meat.  I found it too lonesome with only a few mushroom bits to munch on.

Japanese Glutinous Rice Dumpling with Mango and Cream (160 php/3 pcs.)

The Japanese Glutinous Rice Dumpling with Mango and Cream is definitely the best mochi I've ever tried yet!  

Japanese Glutinous Rice Dumpling with Mango and Cream (160 php/3 pcs.)

 The glutinuous rice dumpling shell was so soft and smooth that biting it merely caressed my lips.  It had a light cream filling that was so cool and light.  Together with the cherry and mango slice, I was so in awe that I almost got teary over it.  I vow from this day on to order this every time I visit! =D

Final Stop: Slice
I've always wanted to try Slice.  Aside from being owned by Senator Pia Cayetano.  It is one of the hottest cafes in the area.  Regardless of the time of day, it is never empty.  We were able to sample a wide variety of cakes and cupcakes which everyone was really grateful for.  In fact, most of us raised our white flags and left with a full tummy.

Overall, the success of  BGC Eats Food Tour is quite evident.  Slots were easily filled and it was so organized too.  I'm glad they saved the best line up for last.  We are so glad to participate. =D  They do something like this again!

BGC Eats Food Tour (July 20, 2013) Participating Restaurants

Vask  5th Floor, CLIPP Center, 11th Avenue corner 39th Street,  Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila (0917) - 5872400 Orale! G/F, The Fort Strip, 7th & 28th St.,  Bonifacio Global City,Taguig City, Metro Manila (02) 552-2660 Crystal Jade Dining IN Bonifacio High Street Central  Bonifacio High Street Central 7th Ave. corner 29th St.,  Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, Metro Manila (02) 808-5233 Slice Bonifacio High Street Central 7th Ave. corner 29th St.,  Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, Metro Manila (02) 553-7783

Despite our busy schedules, my friends from The Foodies Circle  just couldn't let 2012 past without a Christmas celebration together.  This is definitely a food trip to remember since its my first time in Kapitolyo.  I couldn't have wished for a better company than Sumi and Berylle who share the same love for Thai Cuisine as I do.  So naturally, our first stop is Nav Modern Thai Cuisine. 

Nav Modern Thai Cuisine may be humble in terms of floor area but the place is cozy and clean with a contemporary minimalist ambiance.

Food
It took as quite some time to decide the food because we literally wanted to try most of the menu offerings.  But since this was only our first of many, the group settled with the best-sellers suggested by our server.

Nav's Starters

Vegetable, Herb & Rice Paper (180 php)

It may come as a surprise to you but all of us are quite health-conscious so we decided to start with a light and healthy appetizer with the Vegetable, Herb & Rice Paper.  This was actually my first time to encounter this with two sauce options.  The crunchy vegetables, fragrant cilantro, bouncy noodles which you can dip in the tasty peanut sauce and tangy lime dressing was an enjoyable starter.

Rice

♥ Khao Kluk Kapi (Nav's Bagoong Rice) (230)

One of the dishes that the gang easily agreed on was the Khao Kluk Kapi.  We all love Thai Bagoong rice!  This version does not disappoint.  You can taste the bold presence of the bagoong with the rice and it is served with chopped green onions, shredded green mangoes and cucumbers and a fried egg on top.  But, the group just can't help but yearn for some meat which we customarily expect from this type of dish.

Nav's Main Course

Crispy Fresh Water Tilapia, Tamarind and Shallots (450 php)

I was looking forward to a fish cooked similar to the crispy catfish so when the Crispy Fresh Water Tilapia, Tamarind and Shallots, I was surprised that it was cooked in a battered fish fillet style.  I guess this displays the modern Thai twist of Nav because prior to this, I have not encountered a battered fish fillet in a Thai restaurant.  It had a sour with a hint of sweet tamarind sauce which was supposedly enough to embellish the Tilapia fillets if only they didn't have a batter too thick to make the fish meat almost undetectable. 

♥ Nav's Pad Thai (Rice Noodles with Shrimp, Chicken & Egg) (285 php)

Another must-order for the group is the Nav's Pad Thai.  This is practically the first item in the menu that got our attention.  We're glad we did too because this has got to be one of the best I've tried.  It has generous amounts of shrimp, chicken, egg, bean sprouts and coriander.  The sweet and zesty sauce which perfectly coated every bouncy and chewy rice noodle was sensational especially with a tinge of lemon juice.   

♥Wok Chicken, Bamboo Shoots & Yard Beans (225 php)

The Wok Chicken, Bamboo Shoots & Yard Beans is also a must try!  The chicken bits were tender while the crunchy maboo shoots and yard beans created a great mishmash of textures.  The sauce which had an essence of chicken and slight sweetness made this dish a success.  

Off the Wok

♥ Beef Belly with Rendang Curry (395 php)

I'm a late bloomer when it comes to appreciating curry including dishes like this beef rendang.  But so far, the Beef Belly with Rendang Curry is one of the best I've tried.  I can't help but fall in love with the soft beef belly together with the creamy, savory and slightly spicy rendang curry sauce topped with potato and carrot slices.  In fact, I volunteered to swipe this clean with delight.

Update (October 18, 2014): Revisited and tried the ♥ Stuffed Squid (395 php), adding it to my recommendations. =)

Other Reviews at Kapitolyo Pasig
Bullchef
Lia's Cakes in Season
Mad Mark's Creamery & Good Eats
Silantro Fil-Mex Cantina

Tsinoy Foodies Verdict
If you're willing to leap beyond the Traditional Thai dishes, Nav Modern Thai Cuisine is the place to go to.  The price is at the right range and the proportions are good for sharing so bring some company.  I'm glad we came to the right place to celebrate our Christmas dinner.

Since our little food group The Foodies Circle was formed, we've always dreamed of having cookouts, outings and food trips together.  Last October, our plans finally materialized when we stayed for an overnight cookout at Chilline T House in Tagaytay City.  And, before heading home, we decided to drop by Bag of Beans for breakfast.

We found out later that there are two Bag of Beans in Tagaytay so we had to choose.  We decided to head for the main store because aside from the spacious parking area, it occupied a wider space too. 

We really couldn't see much beyond their large wooden gates.  Only upon entering did we notice how huge the place was. 


The cool morning breeze was even amplified since the area was filled with plants.  There were some aviaries too. 


We found out that they offered a brunch buffet during weekends for a nett price of 495 php.  But, since we went on a weekday, we had no choice but to order ala carte.  We skipped the indoor buffet area and went for the al fresco area.  Although we could have sat on the rattan fixtures or the wooden ones, we opted for the cabana which is  more cozy and private. 



The cabanas had curtains, plush pillow seats and flowery table clothes.  They require 1,000 php consumable to avail the cabana but since we're a big group of 6, we were certain to go even beyond that.

All Day Breakfast

Breakfast Sampler (380 php)

Berylle and D choose the Breakfast Sampler, Sumi got the ♥Sunrise Breakfast (295 php) and her beau got the Porter Steak House (495 php).  Since the orders came in huge proportions, the group shared with each other so I was able to sample all of them.  The Breakfast Sampler had almost everything they served on their breakfast plate (two sunny side ups, two pork sausage links, two light and fluffy buttermilk pancakes, crunchy bacon strips, ham, two pieces of hash brown and two slices of orange)  save for the cheese omelet that's included in the Sunrise Breakfast.  The Sunrise Breakfast may not be as extragant having a cheese omelet, two buttermilk pancakes and two pork sausage links but the cheese omelet alone is worth ordering it for.

Pasta

♥Puttanesca (275 php)

Fellow Tsinoy Foodie Kurt ordered the Puttanesca.  It had the right amount of tanginess and saltiness with geenrous bits of tomatoes, garlic and olives.


Hot Beverages
Everyone orders hot berages except for me.

♥Freshly Brewed Coffee (house blend) (105 php)

The Freshly Brewed Coffee (house blend) is simply aromatic in its classic way.

♥Cafe Latte (110 php)

♥Cafe Mocha (110 php)

♥Cappuccino (110 php)

Caramel Cappuccino (110 php)

Although I did not personally get to try all of them, I could see how pleased everyone was while sipping their cup.  As their name implies, their beverages are a must order. 

Cold Beverage

♥Mocha Frappe (115 php)

I opted for the Mocha Frappe and I'm glad with my selection.  I loved how rich their blend is.  And yet, it was neither to bitter nor sweet.  I have to admit, I enjoyed the drinks even more than the food.

Bag of Beans Store
 
We've already left the main store when I suddenly remembered that we had to buy pies and pastries for pasalubong at home.  So, the boys brought us to the other Bag of Beans Store. 
 


They sell a lot of pastries from baguettes to rolls. They also sell their signature mugs, tables, coffee beans and other delicacies. 

Their ♥Shepherd's Pie (125 php/single; 520 php/family) is a must try.  It has a savory meaty flavor with the soft creaminess of mashed potatoes that brings comfort to your mouth.  If you prefer chunky meat, try the Steak & Mushroom (125 php/single; 520 php/family). 

We didn't understand the reason for their second store until we reached the balcony at end part of the cafe.  It had high wooden tables and chairs with a clear view over the Taal Lake.  I can imagine seeing the perfect view of the sunrise or sunset here so better visit at those hours. 

Tsinoy Foodies Verdict
Bag of Beans is a great breakfast place in Tagaytay.  Perhaps, we'll try the brunch buffet next!  Whichever branch you visit, you'll surely feel relaxed as you immerse yourself with the surrounding.  Although my friends and I had a pleasant and memorable experience, I hope their staffs would be more friendly and accommodating instead of displaying gloominess for a more wholesome experience.  Their WiFi doesn't work too even though they offer a password for a minimum consumption of 500 php.

P.S. This marks TFC's first out of town eat out.  Although we're pretty busy now, I hope we can escape from reality and have more of these in the future.