Good Desserts at Meet Fresh Podium

If you're in the Ortigas-Mandaluyong area and looking for unique desserts, you might wanna try this joint called Meet Fresh. It's at the 5th Floor of the Podium mall at the back of Megamall. Honestly, I was expecting it much to be like Ice Kacang which the Tsino-Malaysians enjoy but this is more of a Taiwanese treat which they brought in for Filipinos to enjoy.

The place can seat around 30, all separate chairs in front with an Express counter on the side. They had tons of guests, but serving time was ample on regular days. I visited it again a few days ago and quality didn't go down after opening the joint a few months ago.

I ordered the Cold Tofu Pudding, Milk Tea with Pudding, Mung Bean Cakes and Peanut Mochi Combo. Everything was so good especially the Peanut Mochi which I had to order more of. The Cold Tofu Pudding comes a close second because it reminds me of cold soy milk/ chilled Taho which I often drink or consume since I was a kid. The mixture of beans and mochi on some of the items on their menu felt ingenious! You're bound to say "Why didn't I think of that?!" a couple of times. Even though we don't have a similar version of these in the Philippines, our halo-halo seems a bit close sans the fruits. 

They've got milk teas and other flavored drinks but for me, it's better to stick with the best sellers because it's a little pricey, but definitely good for sharing. Ask them if you need extra bowls because they can do that on a whim.

MEET FRESH is at the 5th Floor of the PODIUM Mall in Ortigas Center. They are open mall hours, and is self service.

Come To Italianni's This Mothers Day!

Italianni's has been pretty special to my family, as each time my brother comes home from Ireland and feel to dine somewhere, we end up being in this restaurant so we kinda have a lot of memories here. I've also dated a couple or more instances here because I like the ambiance. It's non constricting, not too formal, but you get the classy food and comfy tables that go with it. Also, the food is delish! I mean, who doesn't love Italian food right?

The Interiors

The place can accommodate 80-100 people. Their walls are lined with murals reminiscent of the Italian countryside, hardwood exposed beams, wrought iron chandeliers and garden vine configurations on the window treatments. These are usually seen in Florence, Venice, Rome, or some places like that. I also like the group tables that would be able to accommodate a family or two especially the one on the private room at the restaurant's left part. You get to feel you're in Italy even for a while and sit in warm colors all throughout the restaurant. 

They also have a bar which can whip up mixed drinks, good wine and espresso coffee too. The restaurant also sits on the back part of MOA facing the MOA Eye and the gorgeous Manila Bay. They close it out with shades in the afternoon so you won't feel the heat.

The Food 

We tried their new "Shareable Combos" that only costs Php 945.00. You practically are saving around Php 520.00 in these combo meals and it's intended for 2-3 people. Their servings are huge so if you're just out for lunch with a group of friends, this is definitely something that you could consider. This first one is called the Ribs and Fish Combo.

The fish is local, it's Tilapia and you would probably mistake it for cream dory. It's topped with a velvety Caper Cream Sauce so you get something a bit salty with the bland fish. They've got Pesto Rice with this too so you won't feel shortchanged when having this meal. After all, it's a Filipino staple. I also super duper love the Half Rack Baby Back Ribs which further intensifies when you put the paired steak sauce with it. They have their own home made marinade for the ribs and the sauce felt like it has some fruits it in. It's savory and sweet which makes it totally a hit!

This other shareable portion is called Pork and Chicken Combo. It's got a pasta dish called Aglio Olio, which is like spaghettini in chili and garlic oil. Their version is intensely garlicky, so it's not a good date food. Well actually you can, as long as you both eat it and have mints after. The next one was Chicken Parmegiana, which is fried chicken breast topped with a little tomato sauce, basil and mozzarella cheese. This would be something for the kids. it's crunchy and cheesy, not too tangy. It's just right. Then they also have two large Real Pork Chops with gravy which was surprisingly soft despite its size. The gravy was nice too. They said it's got a chicken base and several aromatics, onions, carrots and potatoes with it. Really filling and can feed 3 grown men. We didn't even get to finish the chops actually.

Aside from these deals, they're giving away small gift cards this Sunday because it's Mothers Day. This will get your Mom another reason to go back to Italianni's for a FREE Caesar Salad. Remember, it will be only available this Mothers Day so pleas come to Mall of Asia this weekend!

For more information about their restaurant:

Italiannis PH

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Visit their official website

http://italiannis.com.ph/

The Green Baker - The Healthy Indulgence At The 3rd Ultimate Taste Test in Rockwell

The Ultimate Taste Test is happening in Rockwell Tent on September 14, 2013. It's where the country's most promising home entrepreneurs dish out their favorite dishes. I've been able to luckily attend the previous ones; and I've seen a variety of artisan work put out on their recipes to be featured in this once a year "taste" festival unprecedented in the country.

This year's list of UTT confirmed participants (All 50 of them!) looked quite good and they've broken em down into four categories namely Appetizer, Main Dish, Drinks and Dessert. I've been to events like these and you've got to prepare because even if they have small servings you'll really get to have a full tummy at the end of the day. Been helplessly struggling with diets and all but this shouldn't be a reason not to be there. Heck I've even seen something good on the list. Have you heard of The Green Baker?

The Green Baker - The Healthy Indulgence!

The Green Baker is fully owned and operated by So-Made Food Enterprises, brainchild of entrepreneurs Denise and Steph Viña. They've got a stern food sciences background and culinary degrees. They brought this idea to the table to let people have something healthy on the plate when it comes to desserts.

Let's face it. Let's talk sense. You can't really find some desserts equally good when it's using healthy ingredients. It either tastes bland, or it tastes funny. Yet the only thing you want is something good, something to satisfy your cravings; and in a sense still wish you won't gain the weight or fat that comes with it.

The Green Baker realized this when they started. There aren't enough of these delightful desserts out there that could still be so good. Case in point:

Malunggay Cookie Nibblers (Php 105.00) : Sealed fresh and freshly baked, these green munchies is your destiny. For those who don't know, Malunggay increases the natural defenses of the body and provides nourishment to the eyes and the brain. It promotes metabolism, lowers the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines because of anti oxidant properties.It also gives energy and makes the immune system of the body work more efficiently. 

With that alone, these nibblets are worth your money; best of all it tastes GOOD. You can still feel the Malunggay fibers and leaves in each bit. It's wonderful and you've got to get one to experience it. It also has Almond slivers on top so even that can get you protein and fiber you need throughout the day!

Carrot and Squash Cookie Nibblers (P 105.00) - Carrots are wonderful! It improves your vision via the Vitamin A content it has. It's said to prevent cancer, makes skin softer, prevent heart disease and is a powerful antiseptic. Squash on the other hand has almost the same benefits, plus its low in calories and makes your heart, colon, prostate and bones healthier. This is so good in so many levels plus you can still feel the carrot and squash fibers in every bite. You are sure you are getting the real deal unlike other ones that over process food.

These bite size pieces actually disappeared after a few minutes. It's also topped with walnuts which can give you added protein and fiber. It's probably nutmeg I'm tasting on the cookie too so that's way awesome in so many levels. 

Almond Ginger Cookie Nibblers (Php 150.00) - Every Asian probably know the healing benefits of Ginger. It's been in our dishes for years and the certainty of its effectiveness has been proven the world over. It has digestion friendly properties that would be good for any person, any age. It packs a little heat too so if you are more on the oriental spicy flavors, this is the perfect snack for you!

It's not too sweet and the combination of spice and cinnamon was a fresh explosion of flavors. I'd mistake this for a Chinese dessert. The almond on top also breaks the monotony of the cookies, pretty simple but still packs a spicy kick! You'll love this too!

Salt n Pepper Nibblers (Php 125.00) - Salt and Pepper has existed for years. Even before YOU have even existed while reading this piece. It's a combination said to be serendipitous because the former retains water and the latter is diuretic. It's the best thing to have on the table or even in the kitchen. It makes every dish taste whole, fuller, better.

These crunchy pieces are surprisingly good. It's simple but every bit of pepper you get is kind of a spice pop. You get to love this simple snack that you'll probably finish in minutes. Try to get one for your friends and family while you're at it.

Double Choco Orange (regular) (Php 260.00) - How can you not love a Chocolate cookie with Chocolate Chips on it? Add to that some slivers of Orange rind bits on top that will give a few chewy and tangy highlights on your cookie. 

Orange has properties that helps prevent cancer. It also prevents Kidney diseases, lowers bad cholesterol, relieves constipation, regulates high blood pressure and protects your skin. This treat is perfect for me because I need something chocolatey every after meal but this one doesn't quite let you binge. One cookie is enough for a snack and makes us perfectly full. A cup of coffee or tea is the perfect pair to go with this Green Baker masterpiece!

Cheese Mamonitos (Php 220.00/dozen) - A single look at this small window on the box made my mouth water. It was sinful to look at, let alone feel what it was like in my mouth.  As I opened the box, it was like fluffy, cloudy, sweet mamon pieces were about to send me to heaven and back.

It was light and airy. I loved it the moment I set my eyes on it. This is indeed the piece de resistance! No wonder people have been raving about it! If you want these and other "The Green Baker" products, you just gotta visit them when the Ultimate Taste Test happens in Rockwell this September 14, that's a Saturday. The good looking man himself Denise and his team would gladly tell you more about their baked goodies on the spot! If you crave for more and want to order, here's some of the items that they'll bring that weekend. 

Choco Dipped Malunggay Cookie - Php 105.00
Almond Ginger Regular Canister - Php 200.00
Pinatubo Cookie Nibblers - Php 105.00
Lemon Basil - Php 115.00
Seaweed Pistachio Nibblers - Php 265.00
Double Choco Orange Nibblers - Php 105.00
Garlic Cookie Nibblers - Php 140.00
Ampalaya Loaf - Php 235.00
Luyammies 1 Dozen - - Php 180.00
Fruit Bars 1 Dozen - Php 260.00
Banana Choco Chip Loaf - Php 160.00
Coffee Hazelnut Canister - Php 220.00

There are no cheap tricks done to make these wonderful treats. So make sure to be there on Saturday, after all you owe yourself a treat. You've been working hard and you should have a better, healthier alternative to snacks when you want it, where you want it. It's time you make your choice for a more healthy indulgence!

For more information, or bulk orders you may contact Denise Viña at 09164504876, 09177102287, Fax (632) 4333741 or email them at somade.orders@gmail.com.

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