Cafe Juanita - Charming and Delicious

We took a chance one Friday night and went to Cafe Juanita at the Burgos Circle, Fort Bonifacio early. After walking around, we decided to go with this restaurant since sister and I were both craving for something flavorful, preferable Asian, and given the choices Burgos Circle had to offer - (mind you, this place has a lot to choose from) we were happy with our decision.

When we got there, most of the tables were reserved. And because there was just the two of us, we miraculously got a table. Note to self: On a Friday night, always dine out either very early or very late - you've got better chances of getting a table in your restaurant of choice.

True to form, this branch had touches of the old world charm and cozy atmosphere typical of Cafe Juanita. The service is attentive without being too much and the food was served just right on time.

What we ordered:


Catfish Salad
On a sour side, their version features crisp tiny flakes of catfish topped on very thin julienned green mangoes.


Paad Thai
Garnished with a net of cooked eggs, this one's delicious as it is perfectly seasoned and generously topped with tofu, nuts and shrimps.


Bagnet
Seasoned with light bagoong sauce, it is served with chunks of fresh tomatoes topped with crisp, melt-in-your-mouth Bagnet squares that are to-die-for. This dish has compelled me to come back to this place.

Forget about your cholesterol and diet concerns when you are at Cafe Juanita - it is affordable indulgence and a flavorful culinary treat for diners to enjoy.

The Lugang Experience

While much has been said about Lugang Cafe along Connecticut road in Greenhills, it is never enough to just listen and learn from those who have experienced the food. Trying it yourself is a must.

It may take a little more effort getting a reservation, but the effort pays off.

I was fortunate enough to have gone twice, thanks to my friend Jeng, getting a table became more manageable. The couple of times I was there, the place was always packed. Diners come in groups - which I feel is apt, considering that dishes come in "sharing" portions, and ordering just a few items would be a crime - what with all the interesting items you will find in their menu.

The first time I was at Lugang Cafe, there were just three of us, but with an appetite equivalent to six people, we indulged. I myself prepared for the feast - light lunch, no merienda... dinner there was much anticipated.

We were seated at the second floor. The first floor was packed. The interiors are bright, modern and sport colors of purple and beige, black and silver, such unusual combinations which actually worked. I particularly loved the private areas which seat twelve people and separated by curtains of chains. Note to self - this would be a perfect venue for family gatherings and private business meetings.

Here are some interesting finds in their menu:


Siao Long Bao
Nothing beats steaming hot soupy pork dumplings which are freshly made and served with ginger, soy and vinegar dip.


Garlic Pork Rolls
Cigars of sliced cold pork served with a Char-siu style sauce.


Beef with Crullers
Thin slices of beef generously coated with a rich brown sauce. You would detect hints of garlic, ginger and oyster sauce in the sauce and was a perfect match with the crisp nuggets of fried savory bread which was used as its garnish.


Three Cup Chicken
Served in a hotpot, this one's fragrant and falling off the bones.


Salt and Pepper Shrimps
This one's my favorite, you literally eat everything - from the shrimp's head to its tail, really, it's worth your money.


Steamed Lapu Lapu
It comes to you deboned and really fresh, but may take some time so order this as soon as you get there.



Braised Pork Belly with Mantou bread
Melts in your mouth and if you are a fan of Kua Pao, this one's for you.


Stir fried Beans with Pork
Neither stringy nor oily, this one is another of my favorites with its flavorful take on eating vegetables.


Black Pepper Rice
Don't be fooled by its name - it is spicy but not hot. I like the fragrance and even without any viand, this would perfectly stand on its own.


Bellagio Tower
This tall tower of crushed ice covered with sweetened red mung beans and served with pineapple chunks, ube mochi, taro and condensed milk proved to be a refreshing way to end our hearty meal.

Expect to be served when you order this. Warning, this one must be served right away or the tower will collapse at any given time.

How about you? Have you had the Lugang experience?

Idol ko si Tatay!

It's Father's Day! To me, it's really all marketing hype having such a particular day to honor them, but hey, am not complaining. What I mean is that, with dads like mine, everyday should be Father's Day.

True, "Idol Ko Si Tatay", and I feel that the Guy up there is just so good to me that he gave me such supportive and loving parents. Because today is all about Dads, here's sharing with you why he is, and will forever be my "Idol".

Five Resons why My Dad is My Idol

1. He is our family's McGyver
He may not look like Richard Dean Anderson but he may as well be Dad's apprentice - Dad can work the electric items, fix the car, repair the plumbing - he is our all around Handy Manny. I've always thought all men were like this, but no, that's just my Dad.

2. He is our musician
I remember that when we were kids, my sister and I danced while he tirelessly played the piano. I loved our bonding moments in our living room while the rest of the family listened to Dad's music. This would normally happen at the end of a busy week and hearing his music would be a soothing reward to all of us. Today, his music is being enjoyed by the community, as he regularly plays church music in our chapel.

3. He is our pillar of strength
His presence of mind in times of adversity has allowed me to manage my fears and control my actions. During medical emergencies, he would always appear to be the calmest among the group. He is ready to hold your hand and his soothing voice is just enough to make you relax even while in pain.

4. He is our number one fan
He never tires of talking about our accomplishments, achievements and would always boast of it to his peers and relatives. Dialogues with him are always full of wisdom. Because of this, his children are forever inspired.

5. He loves our mom
How a father treats his spouse is the best way to teach his children about love, respect and fear of God. While theirs is a relationship just like any other, their faith in God and patience with each other have become the foundation of their years together.




I love you Dad! Happy Father's Day!