Monday, September 22, 2014

Beyond Tango & Torero

Most of us only know Argentina because of the glamorous & controversial Evita. Here in the Philippines, we get a chance to get to know more about the cowboy-clad & dulce de leche loving culture of this side of Latin America through a restaurant named after a much raved street in Argentina--La Cabrera.

Here are the reasons why I think it is such a hit:

1. Ojo de Bife/ Asado del Centro

Argentinian char broiled steaks are highly acclaimed. With a delectable crust (attributed to the type of wood used in making their charcoal) & a juicy, flavorful center (with just a hint of salt&pepper), you have to taste to understand why the country is so beef-popular.

2. Provoleta con Jamon Crudo, Tomatoes Secos y Albahaca

This is a feast in itself, Christmasy even. The gooey provolone cheese is more flavorful than mozzarella & the parma ham is spiced just right!  The basil & tomatoes make it oh so fresh. If you can't finish it off in the restaurant (or you just want to extend heaven elsewhere:p), you're free to take it home. It'll taste just as good when you reheat it:)


3.Rogel de Dulce de Leche

 They put dulce de leche in almost every dessert.  This is my favorite; it's an explosion of textures! Perfect with coffee

4. Ambience

With its quirky decor, you'll never run out of things to look at & admire.

5. Surprise!

If you're fond of surprises, don't hesitate to mix & match their unlimited sides (these would come with the steak). I liked the creamy artichoke, roasted garlic, sundried tomatoes & corn w/ bbq sauce

Want more? Catch more of PAT on Daybreak (7-8:30am), Newsday (12-1pm) & Cebuano News (1-1:30pm) Mon-Fri on 9TV

Monday, September 15, 2014

Finding Heaven (I)n Eggs

Heaven used to be exclusive to angels and saints. Now, there's a black and white semblance of it here on earth; and portraits of John Lennon liven up its walls. Fruity waffles & pancakes cheer up the bright colored tables; and even St Peter seems to be more than willing to share his pet chicken's eggs.

More than serving the American dream breakfast, here are more reasons to aspire for Heaven N' Eggs:

1. Apple and Walnut Salad
      the dressing is light & fruity and everything is just crunchy! The blue cheese isn't overpowering

2. Classic Manila Ribs
       Love tocino? Love baby back ribs? Well here's a dish that fuses the beauty of the two. Unadulterated sweet love.

3. Yummy Unli Steak&Rice
      Where else can you get this deal for 799? And if you manage to finish this plus 5refills (including the eggs), you get to eat for FREE! You may spend an entire day in the restaurant for this challenge. 

4.Adobo Flakes
      I'm not a fan of Adobo. But when it's flaked& toasted to perfection, it's an entirely different story.

5. High five French Fries
      I'm such a sucker for potatoes :p I can dip it in anything..even in creamy egg yolk mmm

Want more?;) Catch more PAT: 7-8:30am on Daybreak, 12-1pm on Newsday & 1-1:30pm on Cebuano News on 9TV.

Tuesday, September 9, 2014

Sunscreen for All Seasons

This year, Skinstation celebrated Mama Mary's birthday with the opening of a new branch in SM City Pampanga.


Its Dermax UV Sunscreen range took centre stage.  UV Milk (the first in this line) and UV Baby Waterburst (for sensitive skin) are my favourites. 


UV Milk is fuss free and is easily absorbed by the skin.  It's non greasy; sometimes, I even put some on my face & scalp before heading on the the beach (My skin is ultra sensitive:/).  UV Baby on the other hand is so refreshing; its water burst technology gradually releases protective emollients on the skin as the day progresses.  Plus their lightweight, sleek bottles slide conveniently in my tote so I can reapply anytime (the rule is you have to reapply each time you sweat profusely :))


Skinstation CEO Fred Reyes emphasizes the use of sunscreen to prevent early signs of ageing.  He encourages everyone (regardless of age, gender, complexion and the amount of their sun/light exposure) to use this product daily to counteract sun damage (which accumulates over time). "You may forget about the other products, just don't skip slathering on sunscreen."


He proves that real men aren't afraid to discuss proper skin care. For online orders and other concerns, you may check their website: http://www.skinstation.ph/dermax-products-online/ or their fb page: https://www.facebook.com/skinstationph