I've heard a lot of raves about Pao Pao Xiao Chi Milk Tea from other blogs.  I've read remarks that thsi local brand even tops their lists against globally recognized milk tea chains.   Being a huge milk tea fan, this has long aroused my curiosity. 


A few weeks ago, I've spotted Pao Pao Xiao Chi Milk Tea at the new U-Pad Residences along Vito Cruz or Pablo Ocampo and decided to buy some for the family.  I also bought some takoyaki from a neighboring stall which the family failed to appreciate. =(

The staff was very friendly and even helped me in deciding what to order.   

Drinks

Milk Tea
 

♥ Banana Milk Tea (80 php)

 Being a fan of Korean banana milk drinks, I was excited to spot Banana Milk Tea in their menu.  The fact that I've never had Banana Milk Tea enticed me even more.  I asked the staff if they use fresh bananas and I was informed that they use powder.  I was skeptic at how it would taste like but still insisted on it.  I'm glad I made the right choice!  This is the best variant we've tried there.  It even got to buy this again for the following weeks.


Rock Salt & Cheese

♥ Chocolate RSC (90 php)

My brother requested the Chocolate RSC. It was delicious!  It was dark and rich with a slight bitter sweetness. 

Green Tea RSC (90 php)

The Green Tea RSC failed to impress all of us.  It just lacked in terms of tea flavor. 
 

Peppermint Milk Tea (70 php)

The Peppermint Milk Tea was okay but nothing spectacular.


Tsinoy Foodies Verdict
I don't know if it was because we set our standards to high because of the lot of online raves Pao Pao Xiao Chi Milk Tea received from other blogs but we were honestly disappointed save for the Banana Milk Tea.

The rainy weather makes me crave for a hot bowl of ramen!  When looking for a an affordable yet authentic ramen on the south side of the Metro, Menya Genki Tonkotsu Ramen comes to mind.

Menya Genki Tonkotsu Ramen is located at Hobbies of Asia along with Brothers Burger and Choice Buffet, our favorite Korean Eat All You Can Restaurant and Koh Samui Thai Cuisine. There's also pet shops there where you can leave you pets for grooming while you eat.  My maltese Lychee gets her grooming done at Pet Passion Dog Shop.

OT (sorry for plugging): The family intended to buy Ensogo vouchers for Choice Buffet at dinner time but mistakenly bought Lunch Buffet instead.  After failed attempts to have it changed,  I'm selling my 6 ensogo vouchers for a discounted price of 350 php each.  See details here.  Email me if interested.  Contact information is on the right side of the page.  

I'm in luck because during our visit there's a 50% off on all regular ramen and 20% of on bento.  So believe it or not there already affordable ramen got even cheaper!

Everytime I visit, I always get tempted to try the Bikkuri Ramen Challenge. But now that there's a promo, the price of 1,000 php seemed heavy.

According to the photos, only a few have tried.  I'm didn't imagine that the winners would be thin though.  I wonder if they trained at home for it. =)

Upon entry the staff will shout their Japanese greetings.  It was clean and well-lit.  It had a ramen bar and a few tables on the sides.  It was simple, casual and with no non-sense flair which implies that people just go there for the food.  For functions and parties, you can reserve the entire second floor.  After years of visiting this restaurant, I noticed that their summer promo board is actually permanent.  =p

Each table had complete condiments and utensils. The sesame seeds didn't seem freshly roasted like I wanted...

Their Ajitsuke Tamago poster looks tempting and priced only at 35 php makes it hard to overlook.

Food

Ramen

♥ Shio Tonkatsu (180 php)

The Shio Tonkatsu is a salt-based broth.  I consider this type of ramen as the perfect test of how tasty the tonkatsu broth is.  Mmm... it is quite tasty!  I was slurping away with glee.  It also comes with chashu (pork),  negi (onion leeks), kikurage (wood ear mushroom) and nori (seaweed) The noodles also had a nice chewy texture.  It doesn't even get soggy despite the length of time it took me to finish two bowlfuls.

♥ Shoyu Tonkatsu with Ajitsuke Tamago (200 php + 35 php)

Just had to try the Ajitsuke Tamago so decided it as an add on to my Shoyu Tonkatsu.  The shoyu also had the same default toppings: chashu, negi, kikurage and nori.  The shoyu broth is rich and tasty but the tonkatsu is flavor is still evident.

Miso Tonkatsu with Ajitsuke Tamago (220 php + 35 php)

The Miso Tonkatsu is which had the same default toppings is as good as the rest.  Added some Ajitsuke Tamago on it too.  I'm not much of a miso fan myself so I preferred the others. 

♥ Pirikira Tonkotsu (220 php)

On my recent visit, I had the Pirikira Tonkotsu which is a spicy version.  Since I love spicy dishes, I really enjoyed this.  This is now my new favorite at Menya Genki.  The spiciness is not overwhelming but it gives this tickling sizzling sensation that makes me slurp for more.

♥ Pirikira Tonkotsu (220 php)

The staff told me that they make their own noodles.  Although the chefs are already Filipinos, they were definitely trained to do things right.   However, eating their ramen triggers a reaction which I usually have when I have had too much MSG. 


Toppings

Leaf Mustard Takana (50 php)

Due to curiosity I also tried the Leaf Mustard Takana for toppings.  It was a zesty and sour which made it a good contrast against the rich and slightly oily ramen broth.  The taste is strong so you could only use this is small amounts.


Ala Carte

Kimchi Rice

I initially thought the Kimchi Rice would be some sort of fried rice.  But, it sadly came like this.  On my next visit though, this was taken out of the menu.  Good move!

Tsinoy Foodies Verdict
When craving for ramen and on a tight budget, Menya Genki Tonkotsu Ramen is definitely the choice to go for.  A bowlful of their ramen is enough to satisfy and with an addition of their runny Ajitsuke Tamago, it gets even better.

Tsinoy Foodies Other Ramen House/Shop Reviews
Akira Restaurant 
Curry Bee Japanese Curry Shop
Hanamaruken Ramen 花丸轩  
Hokkaido Ramen Santouka
Ikkoryu Fukuoka Ramen
Kitchitora 1 | Kitchitora 2
Kokoro Ramenya
Miso-Ten
Mitsuyado Sei-Men
Moshi Koshi 1 | Moshi Koshi 2
Rai-Rai Ken Ramen House
Ramen Bar
Ramen Cool
Ramen Ichiban-Kan
Ramen Nagi
Ramen Sora
Ramen X (Closed)
Ramen Yushoken
Ukkokei Ramen Ron
Wrong Ramen

Well, I've heard a lot of rants about the promo but it was a really good deal for us.  Based on my little sister's experience, she lined up at Robinson's Place Padre Faura Branch at around 4 pm and then by 5 pm they ran out of doughnuts but the staffs were very apologetic about it and still accommodated all those who lined up until 6 pm by letting them sign up and claim the doughtnuts 1 or 2 days after.  Thus, we were able to buy a box of the Original Glazed Doughnuts for only 76 php. 

Availing the 76 peso per box for Krispy Kreme's 76 years blow out a few weeks ago, reminded the us on how much we missed Krispy Kreme.

When we noticed that Krispy Kreme had two new interesting variants, as they too join the Speculoos Cookie Butter craze, we just couldn't let the chance of trying it out pass.

Dark Chocolate Vanilla Cookie Butter (45 php)

The Dark Chocolate Vanilla Cookie Butter has a rich belgian chocolate top layer with bits of french biscuit bits. 

Dark Chocolate Vanilla Cookie Butter (45 php)

The combination of the rich and smooth belgian chocolate and french crisp is a great mix match of texture in every bite.  But, what made me indulge in it more is the vanilla cookie butter filling that adds comfort to the its soft dough.  As compared to the spread, the filling did not have the thick consistency and instead it is pretty much light like their other shelled doughnut fillings.

I like my Krispy Kreme doughnuts warm so I popped some of this in the microwave and it become even more awesome as it delivers its signature melts in your mouth sensation. 

White Chocolate Vanilla Cookie Butter (45 php)

The White Chocolate Vanilla Cookie Butter is a shell doughnut dipped in white chocolate and topped with Belgium chocolate chips and caramel crunch. 

White Chocolate Vanilla Cookie Butter (45 php)

The White Chocolate Vanilla Cookie Butter is sweeter than the Dark Chocolate Vanilla Cookie Butter due to its white chocolate coating and toppings.  I guess that is the reason why I've always been an advocate of dark chocolate than the white ones.  I enjoyed the chocolate chips but the caramel crunch bits were hardly noticeable.

Original Glazed Doughnuts (42 php)

The Original Glazed Doughnuts is still my favorite!  Nothing can beat the classic.  I always add in these in every box.  But, I'm want to try their other variants like the Salted Caramel too.

The family is not usually excited when it comes to Chinese restaurants since my mom is a pretty good Chinese cuisine cook herself.  But when they were quite eager to try Modern Shanghai because we could use my The Bistro Premiere Card for it.


The SM Mall of Asia branch didn't have much long seats so we had to wait for our turn on a weekend dinner. 

I observed on my second visit, this time on the Glorietta 2 branch, that the interiors were similar but this afforded more privacy to the diners by having booths by the sides and a function room which is ideal for meetings.

Food
Despite the entire area being occupied, the food we ordered were all served completely at the same time.  We didn't even wait that long.  I'm quite impressed with the service especially the SM Mall of Asia branch. 


Buns & Dumplings

♥ Our Signature Xiao Long Bao (198 php)

Everyone was excited to try the Signature Xiao Long Bao.  We love it so much, we just ordered one for each of us.  As soon as it was opened, steam and scent aroused everyone even more.  Unlike the other xiao long bao I've tried, this one had a hole on top and you could see the juices ooze out of it a bit.  This was quite generous with the soup which was quite flavorful too.  It was delicious but a bit pricey. 

New Dimsum

Steamed "Hakaw" Shrimp Dumplings (188 php)

Modern Shanghai has recently introduced 10 new dishes to their menu and the Steamed "Hakaw" Shrimp Dumplings was one of them.  I'm also a huge fan of Hakaw.  I was quite pleased to see its perfect translucent silky skin.  Once I popped each one of these in my mouth, I just couldn't help but savor the taste and tender shrimp.  Mmm...


Starters

Shandong Style Shredded Chicken (Hot) (358 php)

We chose the Shandong Style Shredded Chicken served hot as opposed to cold.  This is very tasty especially the skin which bore a mild honey, soy and vinegar taste.  The meat was jucy and tender. 

♥ Shaoxing Drunken Chicken (Cold) (298 php)

The cold Shaoxing Drunken Chicken can come a bit surprising to the mouth upon first bite.  But after that, you'll get to appreciate the pleasant flavors conjured by the wine and broth.  

♥ Smoked Beancurd Wraps with Assorted Vegetables & Mushrooms (Cold) (198 php)

It was my first time to try the Smoked Beancurd Wraps with Assorted Vegetables & Mushrooms.  We all loved this.  The smoked beancurd wraps were amusing chewiness which plays well with the crunchy carrots and flavorful mushrooms.

Beancurd with Preserved Egg & Pork Floss (Cold) (198 php)

There's not much creativity with the Beancurd with Preserved Egg & Pork Floss which makes it pale in comparison with the other appetizers.  It's something I could instantly conjure even at home.

Dishes

Deep Fried Pork Ribs with Spicy Salt & Pepper (288 php)

Although I'm not much of a fan of the Deep Fried Pork Ribs with Spicy Salt & Pepper, their version was quite captivating.  It wasn't too oily and tender which made it continuously appetizing to eat.

♥ Tung-Bor Style Braised Pork Belly (418 php)

I usually get turned of by braised pork belly dishes because of their huge amount of fat.  But, once I heard oohs and aah from my companions over this, I just had to try the Tung-Bor Style Braised Pork Belly.  I'm so glad I did!  This is definitely the best dish in there.  The fatty parts melts in your mouth exploding with rich flavors.  The pork meat was oh-so-soft too.

Sauteed River Shrimps with Spring Onions (318 php)

I find this small platter of Sauteed River Shrimps with Spring Onions a bit unreasonably priced.  But, if you love shrimps, go ahead and try.

♥ Sauteed Egg White with Fish Meat (348 php)

The Sauteed Egg White with Fish Meat is a light and refreshing dish to try.

New Dishes

Wok-Fried Sliced Beef with Broccoli (338 php)

The Wok-Fried Sliced Beef with Broccoli is a fair dish to try.  The meat could use a bit more tenderizing.

Native Hong Kong Crispy Chicken (688 php)

To be honest, I really couldn't tell much difference between the Native Hong Kong Crispy Chicken and the Shandong Style Shredded Chicken.  Perhaps, hefty pricing is due to the type of chicken used.  It was not served crispy though.
 

Deep-Fried Squid with Spicy Salt & Pepper (388 php)

The Deep-Fried Squid with Spicy Salt & Pepper is cooked similar to the Deep Fried Pork Ribs with Spicy Salt & Pepper except that with giant squid this time.  This is option is for the seafood lovers I guess.

♥ Eight Treasures in Hot Bean Sauce (358 php)

The Eight Treasures in Hot Bean Sauce is another interesting dish which I immensely enjoyed.  I'm glad they decided to add this to their menu.  As usual, I wished it was a bit hotter though.

Vegetables

Sauteed String Beans with Minced Pork & Chili (188 php)

The Sauteed String Beans with Minced Pork & Chili was cooked with precision.  Each bite was delightfully crunchy.


Rice

Yang Chow Fried Rice (228 php)

An order of the Yang Chow Fried Rice is good to share for two to three persons.  That I think it their standard serving size per order with all of their dishes. 


New Noodles

♥ Crispy Yellow Noodle with Seafood (358 php)

I'm loved crispy noodles!  The Crispy Yellow Noodle with Seafood did not disappoint.  The seafood-rich sauce was an excellent complement to the crispy noodles.  
 

Fried Shanghai Noodle with Seafood (338 php)

The chewy texture of the Fried Shanghai Noodle with Seafood had lived up to my expectations but I just prefer the crispy ones more than this.


Signature Tea Drinks

♥ Passion Fruit Lemonade (178 php)

The Passion Fruit Lemonade was refreshing and it was lightly sweetened which is nice.


Blooming Tea

♥ Peaceful Garden (188 php)

They had a number of blooming tea selections.  I ended up choosing the Peaceful Garden.   The hotter the water poured on the seed, the faster it will bloom.  It was quite cool to watch.

Other Bistro Group Restaurant Reviews
Bulgogi Brothers
Italianni's Restaurant
Krazy Garlic
Ma Maison (closed)
SikLab Filipino Favorites
Tonkatsu by Terazawa
Village Tavern
Watami 1 | Watami 2

Tsinoy Foodies Verdict
Modern Shanghai offers delicious Chinese dishese no doubt.  Having tried Chinese restaurants too often, Modern Shanghai gives a kind of impression to remember.  The service is great too.  The only down side is their price per serving ratio which exceeds the usual casual Chinese joint.  But, for the ambiance and convenient mall location, it's quit reasonable.