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National Book Store Brings Itoya to the Philippines
October 15, 2015

National Book Store Brings Itoya to the Philippines

Two heritage brands join together to bring to the Philippine shores more than just stationery but self-expression pieces from Japan that are products of innovation and excellence. National Book Store, the Philippines’ premier bookstore that started in the 1940’s and Itoya, a 111-year-old stationery company in Japan recently launched the Itoya brand of school, office, and travel supplies at the Powerbooks in Greenbelt 4 Makati on October 14. The Filipino company is bringing the Itoya brand to the local market through its vast network of stores nationwide. Itoya is an iconic stationery brand in Ginza, Japan whose 12-storey shop has also become a tourism spot in the district with its […]
New World Makati Launches New Japanese Menu
October 14, 2015

New World Makati Launches New Japanese Menu

New World Hotel Makati, with its newly appointed Japanese Chef de partie Jovel Doringo has recently launched its new Japanese menu offering at Cafe 1228. A favourite among expats, Cafe 1228, New World Hotel’s buffet restaurant that features five interactive live-cooking stations as well as a full a la carte menu for all-day dining has seen a boost in its Japanese patrons as word has started to make rounds in the expats community about the restaurant’s first-rate upgrade on its Japanese menu. The sushi platter, with its interplay of colors and flavours, articulates authentic Japanese distinction in every facet. The expanded and enhanced menu that highlights Japanese favorites like Sushi, […]
Savour Australia at New World Hotel
October 13, 2015

Savour Australia at New World Hotel

The chefs at New World Makati Hotel, in partnership with the Australian Trade Commission and the State Government of Victoria, Australia, share their expertise on high-quality meats, wines and cheeses through a hotel-wide Australian promotion from October 19 to November 8. A preview of the exciting things to come was held on October 1 and it surely did feel like a feast for the kings. Premium Tomahawk During the 3-week promotion, restaurants at the New World Hotel will feature quality wines and an array of cheeses topped with top-grade Australian produce from Tasmania and Victoria. Visit Café 1228 and experience a grass-fed O’Connor Premium Beef prepared into an array of carving […]
Hotel Intercon Closes to Give Way to New Development
October 13, 2015

Hotel Intercon Closes to Give Way to New Development

The Hotel Intercontinental, one of the oldest landmarks and vestiges of early Makati established in 1969 will be closing by end of 2015 to give way to a new development also under the Ayala Land Inc. (ALI). The hotel management contract between ALI’s AyalaLand Hotels and Resorts Corporation (AHRC) subsidiary and the InterContinental Hotels Group is set to expire on Dec. 31. With this cessation, ALI said that the property giant is looking to develop another mixed-use development at the InterCon area in 2016 that will transform the entrance of Ayala Center in Makati City into a modern gateway, with first-of-its-kind intermodal transport facility designed especially for the commuting public. The […]
Pasta-all-you-can at Amici on Oct 17!
October 10, 2015

Pasta-all-you-can at Amici on Oct 17!

Celebrate National Pasta Day at Amici on October 17! Mark the date and bring along your family, friends, and officemates from 2pm-7pm and enjoy Amici’s pasta-all-you-can for only P395 on selected dishes (Spaghetti al Pomodoro, Spaghetti alla Carbonara, Linguine al Prosciutto e Tartulo, Spaghetti Aglio e Pepperoncino). You can also be part of Amici’s Great Pasta Mosaic by tagging your pasta photos on Instagram with ‪#‎PastaForAll and ‪#‎AmiciPH. Enjoy this treat at all Amici branches! Don Bosco, Makati 818 – 4444 Tomas Morato, Quezon City 376-6458 Megamall Atrium (3F), Mandaluyong City 636-1340 Greenhills, San Juan 724-4804 Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati City 621-6111 Venice Piazza @McKinley Hill Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City 555-1000 UP […]
COSPLAY MANIA 2015: Keeping Japanese Pop Culture Alive in Manila
October 09, 2015

COSPLAY MANIA 2015: Keeping Japanese Pop Culture Alive in Manila

Judging from the number of excited attendees and participants from the recently-concluded Cosplay Mania 2015, it’s evident that the Japanese pop culture continues to have a strong following among Manila’s young and not-so-young set. For two days, all streets leading to MOA saw be-suited, wigged, winged, creatively-dressed participants and challengers on a mission to be named as the best cosplayers in the land. However, more than cosplay – the event showcased a growing community of Japanese pop culture aficionados: from the young set who enjoyed cosplaying and dressing up as their favorite characters to the mom and pop types on the look-out for their favorite manga or action figure. Japanese […]
UKOKKEi Japan Opens at SM Megamall
October 08, 2015

UKOKKEi Japan Opens at SM Megamall

Relish yourself with 10 different kinds of ramen hailing from 10 cities in Japan as UKOKKEi Japan finally makes its grand opening at SM Megamall. The man behind the menu is Ukokkei Master himself— Chef Funatsu Yasuhiko whose recipes have been used by two of the most famous ramen restaurants in the metro, namely Ukokkei Ramen Ron & Ramen Daisho. Chef Funatsu Yasuhiko, together with his family spearheaded the grand opening of UKOKKEi Japan in SM Megamall. On a side note, aside from the delicious choices of ramen, the Gyoza is something to look forward as it directly melts into your mouth upon biting. The opening was handled by the […]
Ramen Kuroda Opens in Chinatown
October 07, 2015

Ramen Kuroda Opens in Chinatown

Ramen Kuroda brings its Japanese-quality ramen to Chinatown with its newly opened branch in the 3rd floor of Lucky Chinatown Mall Reina Regente corner Dela Reina Streets, Binondo Manila. With its mission to make real ramen part of local everyday life, it’s newest addition to its growing roster of branches is a welcome happening for ramen lovers in the country’s capital and the Chinatown community. Ramen Kuroda’s home-made noodles, umami soup created through a multi-process method, and its effort and passion put into every bowl of its ramen are the reasons why each branch it puts up becomes a hit among the locals and expats. Check out its newest branch […]
Free Admission at the National Museum this October
October 07, 2015

Free Admission at the National Museum this October

Who says history is boring and not worth revisiting? Truth be told, history is a past adventure that had the most interesting characters, heroes, exploits, tales, and setting we can all appreciate or learn from. The National Museum, with its exciting showcase of the country’s eventful and vivid past and rich culture is letting us see pages of Philippine history and heritage up close. In celebration of the Museums and Galleries Month, the institution is opening its doors to everyone for a free chance to experience the Philippines’ past in tangible ways. See collections in fine arts, archaeology, ethnography, and natural history from various epochs and enjoy free admission for […]
XO46 Heritage Bistro Opens at SM Aura
October 06, 2015

XO46 Heritage Bistro Opens at SM Aura

To mark its fifth year, XO46 Heritage Bistro opened its fourth store at SM Aura Premier. Located on the 3rd floor, XO46 seats 86 with an intimate dining room for 10 people. The new store sports a wide glass façade showcasing a traditional Filipino – Colonial dining room harking back to early turn-of-the-century homes. Matted brick walls, gold-gilded mirrored frames and back-lit capiz shutters are among the trimmings that make the interiors unmistakably XO. On the walls are framed antique photos and prints from the couple’s (owners Andrew and Sandee Masigan) numerous trips to Spain. Armed with their passion and their 24 years in the food and restaurant business, Andrew, […]
Government Offices Close on November 17 and 20 for APEC Summit 2015
October 05, 2015

Government Offices Close on November 17 and 20 for APEC Summit 2015

In line with the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting (AELM) to be held in Manila on November 18 to 19, 2015, Malacanang declares those dates as special non-working days in the National Capital Region through Proclamation no. 1072. The palace also declares work in Government offices in Metro Manila to be suspended from November 17-20. The meeting, hosted by the Philippines, will be attended by twenty one (21) world leaders. Photo from Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines – This post is related to: Holiday on November 18, 19 in NCR
Vikings Dine & Fly Promo: Dine And Win A Trip For Four to Asian Cities
September 28, 2015

Vikings Dine & Fly Promo: Dine And Win A Trip For Four to Asian Cities

Vikings, the luxury buffet chain of restaurants have been known for their sumptuous culinary spread that offers the best of the world’s cuisines. And now, Vikings is giving the foodie public something new and exciting via its first ever nationwide raffle promo that gives its diners the chance to fly to some of Asia’s vibrant destinations. Head over to any Vikings, Niu by Vikings and Four Seasons Hotpot City branches near you to participate and join the “Vikings’ Dine & Fly Raffle Promo” and get a chance to win a Trip for 4 to Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur or Hong Kong for every Php 5,000 minimum transaction!  Check the mechanics for […]
Comic Con in Manila with The Vision, Red Arrow, and Missandei
September 25, 2015

Comic Con in Manila with The Vision, Red Arrow, and Missandei

The very first AsiaPOP Comicon (APCC) debuted in Manila on September 17-20, 2015, a rare treat for the geek and pop culture community in the Philippines. Minor hiccups aside, APCC delivered on its promise to bring international stars to our shores and create the “ultimate fan experience” as they brought in 3 celebrities from some of Hollywood’s biggest titles. Paul Bettany Headlining the four-day convention was Paul Bettany, who was the voice (J.A.R.V.I.S.) and now The Vision in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Next set to appear in Captain America: Civil War, the British actor revealed in jest that being in Marvel movies assures him of his dinner. “It’s the first […]
Waterfront Pavilion’s Seasons Restaurant Launches New Menu
September 23, 2015

Waterfront Pavilion’s Seasons Restaurant Launches New Menu

SEASONS, Waterfront Pavilion Hotel and Casino’s premier lifestyle restaurant elevates its culinary creations further with a new festive selection of international a la carte dishes designed to bring exceptional delight to the palate. Proud and inspired to present his masterpieces to the press last September 18 at Seasons was Manila Pavilion’s newly appointed Executive Chef Giovanni Sias. “Meat lovers and seafood fanatics can please their palates with a variety of feisty treats from parma ham, tuna, salmon, prawns, red snapper, beef tender or rack of lamb, and have it cooked just the way they want it,” he shares. Executive Chef Giovanni Sias Pleasing is actually an understatement as the new […]
Mizuho Celebrates 20th Anniversary in the Philippines
September 21, 2015

Mizuho Celebrates 20th Anniversary in the Philippines

The year 2015 marks the 20th anniversary of the Manila Branch of Mizuho Bank Ltd.—a prominent financial institution in the world. To honor this milestone, a press conference was held on September 21, 2015 in Makati Shangrila where Nobuhide Hayashi—President and CEO of Mizuho Bank, gave an inspiring speech about the success of Mizuho and the emerging potential of the Philippine market. Mr. Hayashi emphasized on Mizuho’s commitment to invest in the Asian market where they recognize that 40% of the operational profit is from overseas. Their commitment to Asia led them to invest in the Philippines which they see as having the potential to play a huge role in […]
Best Vegetarian Places to Go to in Manila
September 19, 2015

Best Vegetarian Places to Go to in Manila

Sumptuous, healthy grub minus the meat It may not look like it, but the city offers a wide-range of vegetarian options for those who prefer their meals without the meat. Gone are the days when vegetarian food is often construed as boring, bland and tasteless. The vegetarian grub of today is now infused with flavor, creative and truly mouth-watering. Below are just some of the best and preferred options when it comes to vegetarian cuisine: 1. Corner Tree Café One of the well-loved and most-lauded vegetarian resto in the city, Corner Tree Café surprises its patron with sumptuous meals coupled in a homey ambience. Corner Tree Café serves vegetarian comfort […]
Danish Brand Cocio Expands to the Philippines for its Asian Launch
September 16, 2015

Danish Brand Cocio Expands to the Philippines for its Asian Launch

Creating chocolate milk drinks since 1951, Denmark’s oldest and staple chocolate milk brand Cocio (pronounced as ‘Co-key-oh’) brings its presence to Asia and the sweet, exciting news is that the Philippines gets to have the first taste of the European favorite before the rest of the region does. Cocio has been a hit in countries such as Denmark, Sweden, Norway, other parts of Europe, and the United States. And now, chocolate milk lovers in the Philippines will get to experience the Cocio brand of quality that is about two things – premium and natural ingredients, and first-rate processing. It brings sweet fineness in a drink that is as straightforward as […]
Sept 25 Declared a Regular Holiday as Muslims Observe Eid’l Adha
September 16, 2015

Sept 25 Declared a Regular Holiday as Muslims Observe Eid’l Adha

Another long weekend is coming up soon as Muslims around the world observe their annual Feast of Sacrifice on September 25, 2015, Friday. President Benigno Aquino III declared the day as a regular holiday through Proclamation 1128. The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos had earlier recommended that the holiday be on September 24 but the Office of the President decided to move it a day later to effect a three-day weekend. Eid’l Adha, as the law describes, is a significant occasion in Islam faith because it is the tenth day in the month of Hajj or Islamic Pilgrimage to Mecca, a mandatory religious duty for Muslims that must be carried […]
The Philippines Ranked as One of the Best Countries for Expat Families
September 15, 2015

The Philippines Ranked as One of the Best Countries for Expat Families

Raising a family in a foreign land can be daunting, but for expats living in the Philippines, it looks like they are just in the right place – a country that in fact fosters it. A recent survey done by an international organization ranks the Philippines, a country with a culture known to be nurturing and family-centred as one of the best countries to raise a family for expatriates. Photo grabbed from marketingmag.ca Conducted by Internations.org, a global network of expats that aims to provide a solid community for those living abroad, the Family Life Index 2015 shows the Philippines at the 14th spot among 41 countries. Countries are ranked […]
Kitsho New Menu & Eat-All-You-Can Weekend Promo
September 11, 2015

Kitsho New Menu & Eat-All-You-Can Weekend Promo

Drown yourself in the rich and elegant flavors of Japanese cuisine with Kitsho’s fourth anniversary all-you-can-eat treat for only PHP888 per person located inside Hotel Jen Manila, Pasay. Enjoy this blowout promo by Kitsho in all weekends of September. Guests will surely enjoy the buffet experience with 26 selections to choose from, and to top it off, Kitsho has also introduced 7 new items in their menu spearheaded by Chef Masahiro, the executive chef of Hotel Jen Manila. Let’s go over with some of the new dishes. First is the Japanese Eggplant with Ground Chicken Sauce which looked like a tofu at hindsight. The eggplant was drowned with chicken sauce […]