Under The Tuscan Sun

TUSCANY is a region in Central Italy known for its beautiful landscapes and rich artistic legacy.  If you've watched the movie "Under The Tuscan Sun" starring Diane Lane, then you pretty much have an idea of how Tuscany looks and feels like.  It's a very pretty and romantic place inspired by the elements of nature.  Sounds dreamy and picturesque?  It is! You can even consider this as a honeymoon place.  And who would have thought that we here in the Philippines could have our own little Tuscany?  Yup, that's when you've discovered Marcia Adams Tuscany in Tagaytay.

I just love hole-in-the-wall restos!  It feels like finding a treasure, really.  That's how I felt after discovering Marcia Adams Tuscany.  It was actually Christmas Eve of December 2010 when my family decided to have dinner outside.  (We spent Christmas in Tagaytay last year, hoping for a cold weather to match the mood.) So I was on my laptop researching for a nearby restaurant when I came across an article from OAP featuring the place.  I instantly decided on going there.  Although I was worried that it might be closed because it was Christmas Eve so I had to call to make sure.  Luckily, Marcia was very accommodating and said they can serve us dinner that night.  Woohoo I was excited!

So we drove to the Rotonda as Marcia instructed.  It was dark at 6:30pm and signs weren't that visible anymore.  It's really difficult to find places in Tagaytay when it's dark already but it's part of the adventure.  We finally saw the street right after the Rotonda, and we turned.  It was a small street void of much lighting so we had to ask a couple of passers by to make sure we weren't lost.  Then at last, we found the Tuscan-looking door!  There was a parking area for a few cars and just a small mysterious Tuscan door (which wasn't the entrance by the way).

We entered the place through the side gate and immediately saw plants and trees all in a pretty landscaped garden.  You'd notice it even if it was dark.  Not long after, Marcia's husband Neil greeted us politely and escorted us inside the main dining area.  WOW I thought.  Boy it was pretty.  All of a sudden I felt like I was in a different country.  The main dining area was inspired by the elements of nature and very Tuscan. It had stone walls, interesting sandstone bricks, intricate wrought iron accessories, and a hint of sun-washed colors.  We looked around for a while before settling down to appreciate the charming place. (Too bad I wasn't able to bring my Lumix LX5 with me.  Photos were only taken using an old Olympus digicam so quality isn't that nice)

They brought the Tuscan Sun to Tagaytay!  You may appreciate it more when you visit the place around 4-5pm

Wrought iron accessories on dark wood furniture

Mood lighting and chilly December weather

Apart from the dining area was a smaller porch/patio area which would be PERFECT during sunset.  Oh I can already imagine having a date there!  So romantic!  It was also Tuscan in style of course, made with rustic stone and bricks, with marble flooring and sturdy wooded furniture, but had a splash of color - bright yellow.  The peaceful and warm setting and simplicity will not intimidate you but will leave you in inviting awe.  Outdoor spaces are critically important for Tuscan style thus their garden area is huge.  They also had a water fountain in the central courtyard surrounded by beautiful wildly growing greens. Walkways, driveways, and garden paths are set with stone or brick and nature takes its course and grass grows up between the stones.  Obviously, we had a lot of time appreciating the place.  Why?  We were actually lucky that because of our schedule, we had the place all to ourselves. :)

Walkway to the sunset patio (I wasn't able to take a decent photo of the patio itself but I promise to do so when I come back)

So enough of the place.  I think I've already raved enough about it.  WHAT ABOUT THE FOOD??? Well... the food did not disappoint me.  The dishes were simple yet exquisite in flavor!  These are my type of dishes so I may be biased.  They were healthy (no trace of oil, mostly grilled not fried, and with herbs), had authentic flavors (seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices), and had big serving sizes.  I don't think a typical girl can finish a plate.  I did of course! :)

We ordered the set menu instead of ala carte and I suggest you do the same.  I can't see the point of ordering ala carte when you can have a delicious THREE COURSE MEAL for the price of ONLY the main entree you choose! Isn't that great value for money?  (Actually the set-up is similar to Antonio's but this one's waaayyy cheaper)  The average price of a set menu would be P700 inclusive of one appetizer/soup, a main entree, and dessert. 

My Set Menu:  Almafi Prawns, Fish Souvalki with couscous, and Grilled Orange with Vanilla Ice Cream.  (Price: P700) 

My Brother's Set Menu:  Mushroom and Garlic Soup, Spanish Chicken Casserole with couscous, and Lime Panna Cotta  (Price: P755)

My Dad's Set Menu:  Almafi Prawns, Grilled Aromatic Pork with rice, and Fried Bananas with Dark Chocolate Dip (Price: P700)

Starter:  Soup

Entree:  Spanish Chicken & Couscous

Entree:  Fish Souvlaki (tanguige kebab marinated in olive oil, lemon & herbs)

Dessert:  Lime Panna Cotta

Dessert:  Grilled Orange with Vanilla Ice Cream (FAVORITE)

I absolutely loved my orders!  The prawns were crunchy and tasty.  They weren't overcooked and are really great appetizers because I couldn't wait for my fish to arrive haha!  As for the main course, the spices and herbs gave the fish so much interesting flavor I couldn't stop savoring every bite. The couscous' texture was lovely and matched the fish well.  And finally, the dessert was so heavenly I was tempted to order another one.  Great contrast of a fresh citrus fruit like an orange being grilled with rugged flavor and then adding the simple sweetness of the vanilla ice cream - perfect combination of flavors in my mouth :)  Take note however that some of my family members thought that the dishes were a bit bland for their taste.  I may be biased because my taste buds appreciate light flavoring.  Some of you who likes salty cooking may not appreciate the dishes as much as I did.  Just go try and see for yourself.  Oh, and I love even the beverage - Lemon bitters! :)

A pitcher of cold Lemon Bitters

Overall, I'm giving it 4.5 out of 5!  It's my second favorite restaurant in Tagaytay (Nothing can beat Antonio's).  If you haven't visited Marcia Adams Tuscany, please do so!  You'll be missing a lot if you don't.  I'm definitely coming back for a date in that lovely sunset patio. ENJOY!


For your info: 
Marcia Adams Tuscany is located along the border of Tagaytay and Alfonso, Cavite across Ville Sommet.  Just turn right at the Tagaytay Rotonda with the sign leading to Ville Sommet. Tuscany entrance is on the left side.

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Tasteful Jap-Mex at TORO

What do you think about Japanese-Mexican fusion?  Sounds promising right?  Well, I had to try it myself to find out.  Last month, I visited a new place in Bonifacio Global City called TORO.  Yes, Toro as in the bull.  It's a newly opened restaurant which is quite small (fits around 40 people) and hidden since it's not located in the usual Highstreet, Serendra, or Burgos Cricle.  I didn't mind having to look for it though because for me finding it is like discovering a treasure concealed inside the many streets of BGC.  All because I had a delightful dining experience. :)

According to OAP, TORO means bull in Mexican and tuna belly in Japan

So before entering the little posh place, your first concern would be parking.  Unfortunately, they don't have a designated parking area yet.  We almost parked in the MINI car showroom parking area but the guard did not allow us.  So anyway, no need to worry though because they have a valet service for all Toro customers.  Not bad.  Besides, valet parking has always been convenient.  So after parking and entering the restaurant, the first thing i noticed was its size.  It was quite small with very few tables (so make sure to go early or make a reservation) and if I'm not mistaken it can only fit 40 people at most.  However, the size didn't make things uncomfortable.  In fact I kinda like the private feel to it.  The chairs were comfortable and the tables were big enough, but I didn't like the dim lighting so much.  Perhaps because it's also a bar/lounge and they served drinks aside from food.  In terms of design, for a small resto, interiors were quite remarkable, having a few artistic pieces that caught my eye.  Overall, the ambiance can be perfect for a date or a chill dinner and drinks with friends.

Spanish bar ambiance 

With some artistic pieces that caught my eye

TORO BAR - they do serve drinks that look yummy so you can also come here for a "loading dose" before a night out with friends :)

Now onto the best part...the food as usual.  What can I say, I was right!  The Japanese-Mexican fusion idea is superb!  Well the dishes were more of Japanese, let's say 70% Japanese with 30% Mexican kick, but still brilliant.  They have the usual Toro Miso Soup which I loved because of the fresh enoki mushrooms and large fresh tofu cuts and green onions.  A warm cup of miso soup is always a good way to start my Jap meal.  We also ordered the Toro Ceasar Salad which was quite interesting because it had romaine lettuce, tomatoes, manchego, crispy ebi tempura, and a soy ginger glaze.  It was deconstructed so you have to mix it by yourself, maybe so that you can mix the flavors according to your preference.  Then we also tried the Stuffed Finger Chilli which is their version of my favorite dynamite rolls.  It's basically a big green pepper stuffed with mozarella cheese, chedda cheese, and basil.  It didn't fail my taste buds as usual!  There was a beautiful contrast between the spicy chili and mouthwatering cheese.  Two thumbs up for an appetizer!  Then we wanted to order something like a Japanese resto staple, ebi tempura.  The Creamy Spicy Tempura Rock Shrimp was the closest bet so we tried it.  It wasn't the normal ebi tempura because of the special sauce that's creamy but tomatoe-y and spicy like a mexican version of marinara sauce.  So again it's a good combo of Japanese with hint of Mexican flavors.  Now for my favorites - the maki.  First we ordered the Salsa Verde Maki which didn't look so appetizing at first because it was too green.  But alas, I was wrong, it tastes unique but very delicious.  Then here comes my favorite dish of all - the Volcano Roll.  Yes, it is now included in my top 10 favorite foods of all time!  I just love the powerful taste of spicy mayo combined with the delicate taste of fresh salmon, with an extra kick of crispy jalapeno fried in tempura batter.  Wow it just literally explodes in your mouth, hence the perfect name Volcano Roll.  That maki really made my dining experience such a delight.  We also ordered other dishes such as crispy pork belly, spicy beef fire bowl, crispy chicken basil bowl, and age dashi tofu, and all of them were pretty tasty.  Oh and we also tried the Mojito since some guests seemed to be having fun drinking.  :)

Miso Soup  - P200

Toro Ceasar Salad - P260

Stuffed Finger Chilli - P250 (5pcs)

Creamy Spicy Tempura Rock Shrimp - P350 (4 pcs)

Salsa Verde Maki - P350 (5 pcs)

My favorite! The VOLCANO ROLL - P390 (5 pcs)

Mojito (You can try their drinks too, they look good)

As the restaurant seems quite intimidating because of the fine dining appeal, no need to worry because the prices aren't that steep.  Dishes are more expensive than the ones in your usual Japanese or Mexican restaurants but can be affordable especially for special occasions.  You'd spend an average of around P700 per person depending on what dishes you'll be ordering.  By the way, I also like the service and the fancy bag holders that they lend to the ladies.  :)

My overall rating for Toro would be 4 out of 5.  If the prices were a bit lower, it would be 5 out of 5.  If you like Japanese food and you're looking for something new and exciting, try Toro!  You won't regret it.

For your info:
TORO Restaurant & Bar
Unit 6 G/F McKinley Place
26th St. Corner 4th Ave. BGC
(At the back of MINI showroom)

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Bar Dolci

Sweetness at it's finest - Bar Dolci!  This posh little place in Burgos Circle never fails to paint a sweet smile on my face after dinner or a night out.  Bar Dolci is relatively new and quite small but it's ambiance is very inviting.  The second floor has comfortable couches and posh interior with LCD TVs. Definitely a relaxing hang out place especially for the sweet tooths.

Sweet treats.
Bar Dolci's specialty is of course their gelato.  There are so many interesting flavors that just keeps us going back to try a new one.  I love the Thai Milk Tea flavor because it reminds me of my trip to Bangkok.  Sorry I wasn't able to take photos of the gelato because I was too excited to eat it!

Aside from gelato, they also have delicious macarons!  Oh dear, macarons are my favorite so these yummy treats are very hard to resist.  Their dark chocolate macarons are to die for. :)

If you're looking for something unique, they have popsicles which have alcoholic drink flavors.  Cool huh?  Imagine a tequila rose popsicle melting in your mouth...Now that's pretty awesome!  (Do I sound like an alcoholic now?)

Bar Dolci is really a cool place to hang out in.  Aside from enjoying the cozy ambiance, the sweet treats will always make you come back for more.  Try it out!


For your info
Bar Dolci
F133 Forbeswood Heights, Burgos Circle
Fort Bonifacio Global City
846-8245

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Rainy Day Bag: CATH KIDSTON

Check out my new purchase - a cute day bag from Cath Kidston! Perfect for the rainy days!

Cath Kidston is not yet that popular in the Philippines but it is a well known brand in the UK.  They sell not just bags but also a wide array of products such as clothing, scarves, accessories, furniture, stationery, umbrellas, gadget cases, and many more!  Cath Kidston designs stand out because of their fun prints and quirky designs.  If you see bags with dainty floral prints or polka dots, they may most likely might be Cath Kidstons.  Just check the logo in front.



Just recently, my friend went to London so I immediately asked her to buy a Kidston for me.  I chose a Spot Day Bag in blue which was at 45 pounds.  That would be roughly around P3,200 when converted.  Not bad right?  It's a durable bag like a Longchamp so P3,200 is actually quite cheap.

If you're not a fan of floral designs, you can choose this simple yet cute polka/spot design like I did.  It can go well with denim, white, black, and mostly anything actually.  It's also perfect for the rainy days because the bag is made from durable oilcloth with cotton and leather PLUS it's PVC coated which makes it waterproof!  yes, definitely rain friendly.  Another good thing about it is that it isn't high maintenance because the material allows you to just wipe it clean.  It can also fit a lot of things despite it's comfortably handy size.

There are a lot of other cute bag styles to choose from.  They have totes, carry-alls, slings bags, luggage bags!  Visit their website and choose your favorite.  I think my next purchase would be a luggage bag so I'd be a chic traveler.  I love my Cath Kidston and I'm definitely buying more! :)

Note: Beware of fake Cath Kidston products sold in bazaars.  Make sure to get the authenticity card

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Sambo Kojin

Nothing excites a foodie better than hearing the word "buffet", or for the usual Pinoy, "Eat-all-you-can".  Well you can't blame them.  Who does not want to eat as much as he can for a fixed price with a wide variety of dishes (sometimes even cuisines) to choose from?  If you have a big appetite or if you enjoy eating a little of everything, then a buffet is your best friend.

Because the buffet culture has become popular, a lot of new restaurants have opened catering to this hyped eating style.  There would still be the good old Saisaki, Dad's, and Kamayan; the expensive hotel restos with various buffet offerings; and of course the new ones like Yakimix and Sambo Kojin.

As a food lover myself, I have already tried both Yakimix and Sambokojin and I have to say they're both pretty good especially for the price you pay.  Though these two Japanese buffets are almost the same, I prefer Sambokojin Yakiniku Smokeless Grill better and let me tell you why.

In terms of the location and ambiance, I think both restaurants have established a decent, clean, and inviting appeal.  I was able to try Yakimix in Greenbelt 3 and Sambokojin along EDSA (near Greenhills).  They have comfortable chairs and well-lit tables, and the buffet stations are arranged in an organized manner.  Both are always packed though so make sure you have reservations.  Just one tip, if you're going to the EDSA branch of Sambokojin, I suggest you avail of their valet parking service.  It's more convenient.

In terms of food (the most important of all), Sambokojin earned more stars for me.  I find their sushis and makis tastier, more exciting, and with more variety than those of Yakimix's.  Sashimi were fresh and delicious too, plus they were always replenished.  Tempuras were cripsy and the rice and miso soup were served very hot and appetizing.  The Yakiniku is commendable because aside from being really a smokeless grill (no stinky smell) there was an array of assorted sauces to choose from!  These sauces helped us grill the food to match our taste buds perfectly.  There was Takumi sauce, Teriyaki sauce, Sambokojin specialty sauce, Garlic sauce, Spicy sauce, and many more!  You can also use these sauces in all other dishes aside from the Yakiniku grill so you're sure to get the right amount of saltiness/sweetness/spiciness. Besides, having to mix these sauces was pretty fun aside from mouthwatering.  The dessert station can still be improved but Sambokojin's desserts were way better than Yakimix's.  Lines tend to build up though when getting ice cream, maybe because of the kids. :)

Sambokojin's service is also admirable.  Their waiters and staff are courteous and very attentive. They offer to serve you some Japanese fried rice in a pot if you like or even some soup from the buffet station.  Plus, drinks are always refilled on time.

Overall, I give Sambokojin Yakiniku Smokeless Grill 4 out of 5 stars.  You get the value for your money and it's definitely worth a try!

For your info


Sambokojin Buffet Rates:
Mon - Fri Lunch = P495
Mon - Fri Dinner = P595
Sat & Sun Lunch & Dinner = P595
* Add bottomless drinks:
  Soda: P80
  Iced Tea: P85

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Things To Do In Boracay

Who doesn't love Boracay?  Every summer of each year, my friends and I make sure we have tickets booked for a fun trip this beautiful island in the Visayan region.  Boracay is a popular destination not only for tourists but for the young Filipino crowd who wants to enjoy the beach and the dynamic  Bora night life.

So, what's new in Boracay?

 

EPIC is the newest and hottest party place to be in the island.  Located near D'Mall and having a head-turning architecture and appeal, it's surely hard to miss!  Drinks are quite expensive compared to other bars in Boracay but you sure are getting good quality and efficient service.  They also serve pretty tasty bar chow and even lunch/diner.  Famous DJs from Manila frequent the place especially when there are events so good party music is guaranteed.  If you want to party the night away, go to Epic Boracay and have an epic night.

ALL TIME BORACAY FAVORITES (Where To Eat):

* Madly Mexican at Mañana. 
If you have already been to Boracay, I'm sure you have seen or heard of this place.  It's a colorful restaurant located in Station 1.5 with waitresses dressed in rumba dresses and giant Mexican hats.  Mañana serves really good Mexican food at affordable prices.  Their usual serving is good for two, but if you're hungry, then a plate of yummy tacos and enchiladas will be just right.  It's not as expensive as the Ole Mexican restaurant at D'Mall, so you can enjoy Mexican meals on a budget.  Try their beef enchiladas and special tacos!

Mañana beef enchiladas and taco

* Battle of the Fruit Shakes
To be honest, I don't get the battle of the fruit shakes in Boracay.  For me, all the fruit shakes are equally good and refreshing! Brand doesn't matter.  Whether it's from Jony's or Jonah's or the new Loco Frio, as long as it's fresh (made with real fruits) and really cold, I'm down for it.  Nothing beats sipping on these refreshing treats while basking under the hot summer sun! Just choose your favorite flavor and enjoy! A fruit shake costs around P80-P120 so it's not heavy on the pocket. Bottoms up!

* Tummy Staples by the beach - Ribs and BBQ!If fruit shakes are the perfect thirst quenchers in the beach, I'd have to say ribs and barbecue (grilled food) are the best chow to feast on.  That charred and rugged taste with a hint of sweetness just compliments the relaxing beach mood.  The best ribs in town can be found in no less than the popular Hawaiian BBQ.  Yes they do have a branch in Tagaytay.  Hawaiian BBQ is not a budget restaurant but you get what you paid for.  Generous servings of juicy and mouth watering ribs are just difficult to resist.  I recommend the pineapple rice, onion rings as appetizer, and of course their house specialty - the ribs.

Now for grilled food and barbecue, our go-to place would be a small resto located inside D'Mall - I ♥ BACKYARD BBQ.  From the name itself, you'd really love their barbecue which tastes like home-made grilled goodness you toasted in your backyard.  They also have generous servings and even if it's not a "budget resto", you get what you paid for.  One thing they have to improve however would be their service.  When the place is packed, the waiters have a hard time.  I recommend the grilled prawns with bbq rice.


SUN & FUN: Things To Do In Boracay

* Paraw Boat Sailing: Enjoy the Sunset.
Catching the Boracay sunset has always been a spectacular view.  Whether you're just lounging around the beach beds of White House or Sur while sipping fruit shake by the shore, or swimming and getting a tan on the clear beach, or enjoying ice cold  beer during happy hour with good friends, catching a glimpse of the beautiful Boracay sunset is a MUST.  The best way to appreciate this photographers' favorite sunset is by sailing in a Paraw Boat.  For only P300-P500 per head (a normal Paraw would fit 6 people), you can enjoy a relaxing mini cruise around the Boracay Island while you wait for the picture perfect sunset.  It's definitely something worth a try.  Make sure you bring those cameras with you!

 
* Get a relaxing massage!
When you walk along Boracay station 2, you would always see a lot of posters, standees, and ladies in uniform offering massage.  They actually have 3 kinds - massage in their spa/establishment, massage by the beach, or room service massage.  I'm honestly not comfortable getting a massage by the beach and I also don't want strangers in my hotel room so we tried one of those indoor massages.  We were taken to one of the smaller hotels in station 2 and they had small cottages with massage beds.  At P400 per hour, we were able to get a relaxing back & foot massage that made the trip even more relaxing.  Try it! Just make sure to keep your belongings safe.

*More things to do: Be Ariel or Flounder for a few minutes and go reef walking/helmet diving.  Try para sailing and get a bird's eye view of the beautiful island.  Try a new look: get a braid or henna tattoo. If you're adventurous, try the ATV or jump off a cliff at Ariel's Point.  Or get entertained and watch fire poi dancers or listen to performers live.

There are just so many things to do in Boracay and it's up to you to make your trip worthwhile! :)

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The Fat Vain Shopper Debut

Good day, folks! 

Today is the debut of a fun go-to site for anything about food, fashion, beauty, and travel.  

I hope you all enjoy reading.  Please feel free to email if you want certain places/products reviewed.

Cheers!

♥ The Fat Vain Shopper

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