Raymen Beach Resort Guimaras – Blog Review + Room Rates

Posted on December 7, 2018December 11, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

Apart from sweet mangos, Guimaras island has pristine white sand beaches. Locals say that the most beautiful beach in the island is Alubihod located in Nueva Valencia. Alibuhod beach has three resorts namely Raymen Beach Resort, California Coral Beach Resort and Alobihod Cove.

My Guimaras VLOG:

Short video of Raymen Beach Resort:

Raymen Beach Resort – Most Popular Guimaras Beach Resort

During our 3 days and 2 nights trip in Guimaras Island, we spent our first night in Raymen Beach Resort. According to our tour guide, Raymen beach resort is the most frequented beach resort by locals and tourists from the nearby Iloilo province.

I initially felt worried as I’m not a fan of crowded beach resorts. We were lucky that we visited Guimaras on November and it was an off-peak season. According to our tour guide, Alibuhod beach becomes crowed during summer season and holy week.

Tip: If you want to fully enjoy the beauty of Alibuhod beach, visit Guimaras during off-peak season.

Budget Resort in Guimaras

There are many beach resorts in Guimaras but only few offer direct access to beachfront. Raymen Beach Resort Guimaras is one of these resorts. You get to enjoy the fine white sands and crystal clear waters of Alibuhod beach if you’re staying in Raymen. The resort has beachfront rooms and huts for day tour guests which are literally few steps away from the shore.

Just like any other white beaches in the Philippines, Raymen Beach Resort’s Alibuhod beach in Guimaras offers calming view of the sea. The white sands may not be fine as Boracay’s but is comparable to the fine white sands of Bantayan Island in Cebu and Cagbalete Islands in Quezon. The beach is not rocky so you need not to worry if you forgot your aqua shoes. If you love sun basking, there are no beach beds in the resort. I would highly recommend you bring sarong instead.

There are also buoys in the beach for safety purposes.

Budget Beach Resort

If you are on a budget and is looking for a cheap resort in Guimaras, you should consider Raymen Beach Resort. An overnight stay for 2 in a beachfront room is only 1,650 Php. They also have huts for rent for as low as 600 Php. Truly a budget-friendly beach resort in Guimaras!

Raymen Beach Resort Room Rates

Fan Rooms (East Building)

Rose (2 rooms, each room is good for 6 PAX) – 4,000 Php ($80)
Daisy (3 rooms, each room is good for 4 PAX) – 2,700 Php ($54)

Air-conditioned Rooms (East Building)

8 PAX (with refrigerator, cable TV, hot & cold shower) – 3,500 Php
6 PAX(with refrigerator, cable TV, hot & cold shower, dining area) – 5,500 Php
4 PAX (with cable TV, hot & cold shower) – 2,400 Php
4 PAX (with TV, hot & cold shower) – 2,100 Php
2 PAX (with cable TV, hot & cold shower) – 1,650 Php

Air-conditioned Rooms (West Building)

4 PAX (with cable TV, hot & cold shower, intercom) – 2,900 Php
Family room (facing beach, with cable TV, hot & cold shower, intercom) – 4,500 Php
Family room (facing mountain, with cable TV, hot & cold shower, intercom) – 4,200 Php

If you do not have plans to stay overnight, Raymen Beach Resort has picnic huts ranging from 400 Php to 750 Php a day.

Family Room

Our room was a family room facing the beach. We booked a bit late prior to our trip and the family room is the only remaining room in Agoda. Too bad, we were clueless that Raymen Beach Resort has cheaper rooms.

Tip: Family room facing the beach is 4,500 Php and we booked it at only 3,373 Php. You too can enjoy huge discount if you book your Raymen Beach Resort room HERE.

Our room is very spacious. It has one double bed and one queen bed. The room is air-conditioned and also comes with a cable TV, dresser and a dining set. It is also one among the few rooms in Raymen Beach Resort having intercom. Meaning, you can call the resort’s restaurant to order food and it will be delivered in your room!

The toilet & bath is spacious too. Basic toiletries such as soap, toilet paper and towels are provided. Toilet could have been better if it includes bidet. Nonetheless, there is a hot & cold shower.

Overall, the room is generally clean. Not the type you get to experience in high-end resorts but is truly value for your money!

Best Restaurant in Guimaras

There are various restaurants in Guimaras but Raymen Beach Resort’s is a must visit when you are going to the island. They offer a wide array of food choices on their menu at an affordable price!

I didn’t really expect that their restaurant serves delicious food as they are cheaply priced. We have tried dining at the expensive Danilo’s restaurant in Andana Resort Guimaras. I should say that Raymen Beach Resort’s restaurant definitely serves better tasting food.

Upon checking-in, we immediately ordered lunch. Instead of eating in the restaurant, we requested our food to be delivered on our room. We enjoyed the crabs and pancit canton!

For our breakfast, we ordered tapa and chorizo meals for only 95 Php each! Since we loved Raymen Beach Resort’s restaurant, we even decided to have our lunch there after checking-out.

Below is the complete menu of Raymen Beach Resort’s Restaurant: (click image to enlarge)

Raymen Beach Resort Island Hopping Rates

If you want to make your Guimaras trip memorable. Raymen Beach Resort also offers affordable island hopping tour. Below are the rates:

1 to 10 PAX – 600 Php & 200 Php for succeeding hour
11 to 15 PAX- 900 Php & 300 Php for succeeding hour
16 to 20 PAX- 1,200 Php & 300 Php for succeeding hour
21 to 30 PAX – 1,500 Php & 300 Php for succeeding hour

Itinerary of the island tour are Fairy Castle, Baras Cave, Ave Maria Island, Sea Turtle Sanctuary, Natago Beach Resort, Lamurawan Beach Resort and Isla Naburot.

Raymen Beach Resort Corp.

Contact numbers: +63 9185207271 / +63 9175605107
E-Mail Address: [email protected]
Website: www.raymenbeachresort.com
Contact persons: Ma.Fe and Jesil
Discounted online Booking HERE

60 Comments

Food
...
- Metro Manila

Bench Clothing’s Restaurant? Bench Cafe BGC – Blog Review + Menu

Posted on June 1, 2018June 2, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

If you love fashion and are into 100% Filipino brand, you probably own a piece of clothing from the Philippine’s largest clothing brand – Bench. In 2018, the brand opened its flagship store in Bonifacio Global City. Apart from the huge retail store, the building is also home to its first ever restaurant – Bench Cafe.

Bonifacio High Street’s Newest Cafe

Bench Cafe, BGC, Taguig — Bench Cafe BGC

Bench Cafe is situated on second level of Bench Boutique BGC flagship store in 9th Street Lane O. It is along Bonifacio High Street, Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig. If you are walking along Bonifacio High Street, you can easily spot the Bench Boutique Store for its signature red and white store branding.

<span data-mce-type="bookmark" style="display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;" class="mce_SELRES_start"></span>We were surprised and intrigued the moment we discovered about Bench Cafe. I must admit that I was a bit sceptic about Bench’s very first cafe/restaurant. The brand is undoubtedly the most popular in the Philippine’s fashion and clothing industry. But wasn’t really sure about their food. So Jen and I decided to try Bench Cafe.

Simple, Classy and Homey Interiors

Bench Cafe

bar

Bench Cafe’s interiors was not something I expected. Since it’s a cafe, I initially thought that the interiors would be like that of a typical coffee shop around Metro Manila. I was wrong. The interiors of this BGC cafe is simple, classy and homey. I personally love the golden hanging lamp ceiling lights. They give a classy vibe to the restaurant. The wall canvass art around the cafe provides a homey feel to its diners. The entire restaurant is very clean.

Glamorized Filipino Food

Just like the Bench clothing line which is 100% Filipino, Bench Cafe BGC serves 100% Filipino food with a twist. This BGC restaurant elevated and glamorized local favorite dishes.

On their menu are salads such as Pinoy Caprese (149 Php) and Shrimp Suha salad (239 Php), soups such as Tinola (119 Php) ang Monggo (119 Php), all-time favorite Filipino desserts like Classic Halo-Halo (13 Php) and Mais Con Yelo (89 Php).

Bench/To meals are the most popular on their menu. The Bench/To took inspiration to Japanese cuisine’s Bento meals. If you order a Bench/To meal, you will get 2 viands, Bench salsa, atsara and steamed Ifugao rice. You can choose among 10 Bench/To meals on their menu. If you are on a budget, the cheapest is meal number 2. At 299 Php, you get to enjoy their Lechon Kawali and Pinakbet. At 439 Php, Bench/To meal #10 is the most expensive. This meal consists of US Angus Short Ribs Bistek plus inihaw na pusit and gising-gising.

Since it was our first time in Bench Cafe BGC, I made sure to try my favorite kare-kare. I ordered Bench/To number 6, Bagnet kare-kare with bagoong and tortang talong that come with Bench salsa, atsara and steamed Ifugao rice. Bench Cafe’s kare-kare uses Bagnet instead of ox tail or pork hock. For my drinks, I ordered one of their special beverages – Pandan Latik Latte.

I should say that Bench Cafe’s kare-kare is very delicious! The bagnet is very crunchy and the kare-kare sauce is extraordinary! The Pandan Latik Latte was good.

Jen ordered her favorite beef tapa. Interestingly enough, the tapa is topped with vinegar bubbles. Bench Cafe’s food presentation made me feel we were in a fine dining restaurant.

Great Customer Service

I’m very particular with customer service. I expect to much especially to restaurants where food are not cheap. Fortunately, Bench Cafe did not disappoint. We were warmly welcomed by the staff the moment we arrived in the cafe. Most of the servers were pleasing and friendly.

Recommended Restaurant in BGC

If you are looking for Bench Cafe branches, unfortunately, you will only find Bench Cafe in BGC. So, if you happen to visit BGC, give Bench Cafe a try! This BGC restaurant serving local favorite dishes is truly promising!

Bench Cafe BGC Menu

Bench Cafe

Address: 2nd Floor Bench Boutique BGC Flagship Store, Bonifacio High Street
9th St. Lane O, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Philippines
Contact Number: 0917 702 1133

Cebu
...
- Food
- Travels

Where to eat in Bantayan Island Cebu? MJ Square, HR Native Restaurant, Tristan’s Pizza

Posted on May 12, 2018November 5, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

Bantayan Island in Cebu is undoubtedly one of the must visit island in the Philippines. Like Boracay in Aklan and El Nido in Palawan, Bantayan Island is a popular tourist destination among locals and foreign tourists alike.

Where to Eat in Bantayan Island Cebu?

Bantayan Island is tourist ready. Just like Boracay, there is a number of restaurants, bars and café in the island.

Bantayan beach resorts such as Anika Island Resort, Hoyohoy Villas Resort and Beach Placid have their own restaurant. However, food their menu may be limited or more expensive. If you are a food adventurer, there are other food places and restaurants in the island. Below are my top 3 recommended places to satisfy your gastronomic adventures in Bantayan Island:

1. MJ Square

MJ Square is the most popular food place in Bantayan Island. Located in Santa Fe Poblacion, MJ Square is near to various beach resorts in the island. It is a few minute tricycle ride away from Anika Island Resort, Beach Placid Resort and Hoyohoy Villas. MJ Square is just a few minute walk from beach resorts such as Amihan Beach Cabanas, Ritzy’s White Beach Resort, Marlins Beach Resort and Yoonek Beach Resort and Kota Beach Resort.

MJ Square Bantayan Island Map
<span data-mce-type="bookmark" style="display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0" class="mce_SELRES_start"></span>A food complex with various restaurants and cafes, MJ Square is definitely a go to place for food lovers and adventurers. This Bantayan Island food place offers a wide array of food choices.

Here is a short video of MJ Square in Santa Fe, Bantayan Island.

Complete list of restaurants in MJ Square:

Chef Panyang – This restaurant has the biggest area and has widest food options. Chef Panyang serves mostly Filipino dishes. If you are on a budget, Chef Panyang offers 59 Php (approx. $1.14) meal. It’s probably the cheapest meal you can have in the island. If you love seafood, they also have seafood all you can at only 299 Php (approx. $5.75).

Cupcake Island Cakery – If you love sweets, visit MJ Square’s Cupcake Island Cakery. This mini bakeshop offers various cakes that will truly satisfy your cravings.

Bantayan Burrito Company – This MJ Square restaurant serves Mexican cuisine and is Vegan friendly.
Shake Me – This small and colorful place in MJ Square is perfect if you are craving for ice cream or shakes in the island.

Channa’s Café & Wine – This mini cafe is a perfect place to hang-out with your Bantayan travel buddies. Channa’s Cafe serves hot & cold coffee and coffee based drinks. They also serve flavored beer. Their drinks are priced from 50 Php (approx $1.00) to 90 Php (approx. $1.80).

Tapa Master – This Bantayan Island restaurant’s speciality is gourmet and exotic Tapas ranging from 89 Php (approx. $1.72) to 269 Php (approx. $5.17). They also offer sisig and various types of sausages.

Hallas Taverna
Stix Smoke House
Paradiso Snack Bar
Sarapoi
Liquido – If you love to drink, Liquido serves various alcoholic drinks.
Hello Spank
All Time Fry

During our 4 days and 4 night stay in Bantayan Island, we had most of our meals at MJ Square. I highly recommend Tapa Master as they serve great breakfast!

Overall, you will love MJ Square’s wide array of food choices. This is the go to place if you are on a budget. The idea of food complex is good as you get to befriend other tourists in the area. The only downside are the flies in the complex.

2. HR Music Bar & Native Restaurant

Located in A. Batobalonos St., HR Native Restaurant is just a few meters away from MJ Square. This restaurant has a wide array of offerings on their menu. They serve seafood, pork, beef, vegetables, pizzas, sandwiches, cold drinks and cocktails.

HR Native Restaurant Map

HR Native Restaurant was the very first restaurant we visited in Bantayan island as it was recommended by our tricycle driver. We later did not regret to dine at HR as their baked scallops in Mozarella cheese (225 Php – approx. $4.50) was very delicious! I should say that it’s the best tasting baked scallops I’ve tried so far.

HR Native Restaurant Menu

Overall, HR Native Restaurant is a good food place in the island. The native ambiance makes the dining experience special. Their baked scallops is a must try!

3. Tristan’s Pizza Hauz and Restaurant

Tristan’s Pizza Hauz & Restaurant is another must visit restaurant in Bantayan Island. Located in F. Roska street and is near to various beach resorts in Santa Fe. Jen and I were very lucky to have met the owner of Tristan’s Pizza Hauz. We learned from her that the place used to be a resort and restaurant. After the typhoon Yolanda, she had to give up the resort and only retained its restaurant.

We ordered their best seller mixed seafood pizza for 450 Php (approx. $8.82). It was a surprise that the pizza is generously topped with mozzarella cheese and seafood (especially shrimps). We super loved the pizza! I should say that it’s one of the best seafood pizza I had!

Apart from pizzas, this underrated food place in Bantayan Island also serves breakfast meals, salads, pastas, rice meals, snacks and beers.

Overall, Tristan’s Pizza Hauz is a must visit for pizza lovers! The place may not be as popular as MJ Square and other restaurants in Bantayan Island, but is definitely one of the islan’s best food place!

Davao
...

4 Must Visit Affordable Restaurants in Davao City Philippines

Posted on December 28, 2017December 29, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

Davao City is becoming a popular tourist destination among Filipinos and foreign travelers. The most visited tourist destinations in the city are Philippine Eagle Center, Davao Crocodile Park and the beautiful Samal Island. Apart from these must visit tourist spots, your Davao City experience will not be complete without trying these 4 local Davao City restaurants:

Fighter in Philippine Eagle Center Davao

Related blog posts:

1. Yurushi Restaurant

If you are on a budget, Yurushi restaurant is one among the affordable food destinations in the city. A local favorite, Yurushi restaurant offers authentic Japanese food that will not empty your pocket.

On their menu are various Japanese food such as Pork Katsudon (80 Php), Beef Gyudon (90 Php), Chicken Oyakudon (75 Php), Tonkatsu with rice (80 Php), Chaahan (50 Php), Miso Ramen (60 Php), Gyuza with rice (70 Php), Chicken/Pork Karaage with rice (60 Php) and Miso soup (50 Php). These cheap Davao City restaurant also offers non-Japanese food on their menu.

We ordered Pork Tonkatsu (80 Php) and my all-time favorite Japanese dish – Chicken Oyakodon (75 Php).

Being an affordable food place, you don’t get high-end and cozy ambiance in Yurusi. The place is simple and a bit old. Nonetheless, with its affordable dishes, you get the value for your money. Yurushi is well-known among locals as the Japanese owner himself used to prepare the food in the restaurant. Unfortunately, the owner was not around when we visited Yurushi. It appears that the owner has already taught his staff to cook the restaurant’s Japanese food offerings.

Yurushi Restaurant Schedule: opens at 8:00 AM and closes at 10:00 PM
Contact Number: +63 82 225 5052
Location: Uyanguren Street, Davao City

2. Penong’s

Another budget-friendly and local favorite Davao City restaurant is Penong’s. This restaurant is undoubtedly the most popular among locals as they offer delicious food at an affordable price. Penong’s can be seen all over Davao City. It has 15 branches and is also present in other municipalities and cities in Mindanao.

Penong’s has earned its reputation for having the best chicken barbeque in Davao City. Apart from the barbeques, Penong’s also serves various Filipino dishes such as seafood, meat and vegetables. This Davao City restaurant is also the first one in the Philippines to offer unlimited rice to its diners.

I ordered 2 pcs. porkchop with unlimited rice (110 Php) and Pork Pinakbet (140 Php). I have to say that the pork chop is delicious! Its taste is unique and something you can only have at Penong’s. The unlimited rice is also a plus!

Penong’s Restaurant Schedule: opens at 8:00 AM and closes at 10:00 PM
Contact Number: +63 82 225 5052
Locations:

Ponciano
Matina (NCCC)
Sta-ana
Matina (Gallera)
Quirino
Buhangin
Toril
Lanang
Calinan
G-Mall Davao
Bajada
Sasa
Malvar
Ecoland
Abreeza
Mintal

3. Lachi’s Sans Rival Atbp.

If you want fine dining at an affordable price, visit Lachi’s Sans Rival Atbp. Another local favorite, Lachi’s started as a bakery turned into a restaurant. Lachi’s is known for their yummy cakes and pastries. On their menu are various sandwiches, sausages, pastas and rice meals.

Unforgettable pork ribs — Unforgettable Grilled Pork Ribs

We ordered the mouthwatering Unforgettable Grilled Pork Ribs (180 Php). For desert, we ordered a slice of Carrot Walnut cake (60 Php), Davao Durian cheesecake (72 Php). The cake slices are very affordable!

The entire restaurant is very clean. The ambiance is something you get when dining in at popular restaurants in Manila. Lachi’s personally reminds me of Conti’s chain of restaurants. The only difference is the price.

Lachi's restaurangt in Davao — Lachi’s restaurangt in Davao

I will not write further about Lachi’s as I’ve written a separate blog post about this must visit Davao City restaurant. Please visit Affordable Restaurant in Davao City – Lachi’s.

Lachi’s Sans Rival atbp. Schedule: opens at 11:00 AM and closes at 8:00 PM
Contact Number: +63 82 224 5552
Location: Door 1-H Values School Building, Ruby Street, Marfori Heights Subdivision

4. Davao Dencia’s Restaurant

Davao Dencia’s Restaurant is the oldest restaurant in this list. In 1950s, this Davao City restaurant opened its doors and started serving Filipino, Chinese and Spanish dishes.

From outside, you can tell that Dencia’s restaurant used to be one of the grandest restaurant in the city. Up to this day, Dencia’s is a favorite reception for weddings, baptismal and parties . Well, this is an indication that Dencia’s restaurant offers the finest dishes in Davao.

The restaurant has this rustic feel. Perhaps due to to the Filipiniana furnitures and fixtures. Nonetheless, the entire restaurant is very clean. The service is superb too!

Dencia’s restaurant bestsellers are Lugaw Goto, Arroz Caldo, Tokwa’t Baboy, Lechon Kawali, Lumpisang Shanghai and Pancit Canton. Since we visited Davao Dencia’s Restaurant for a snack, we ordered their Special Halo-halo (110 Php), Fresh Fruit Salad (110 Php) and Shrimps Sandwich (110 Php).

We personally love the Shrimps Sandwich. It was our first time to have a sandwich filled with yummy shrimps!

Davao’s Dencia’s Restaurant Schedule: opens daily from 7:00 AM to 9 PM
Contact Number: +63 82 226 4336
Location: General Luna Street, Davao City

Food
...
- Metro Manila

Where to eat Authentic Japanese Food in Makati? Little Tokyo

Posted on December 3, 2017December 4, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

If you are a food adventurer, you must have tried a number of food places and food parks in the metro. If you particularly love Japanese food, there is a compound packed with authentic Japanese restaurants right in the middle of the busy and bustling Makati City – Little Tokyo.

Little Tokyo Makati Location

This must visit food place is located in Chino Roces corner Fernando street in Makati City. Being in the central business district, Little Tokyo is very accessible and is near to various offices and malls.

Tip: Being in Makati, parking can be a bit difficult. You can comfortably visit Little Tokyo by Uber. I am giving you 50 Pesos off on your first 2 trips with uber. Details here.

Japanese Feels

As expected, once you enter Little Tokyo, you will feel like you are on a different place. The restaurant’s facade along tables and chairs in the al fresco area give Japanese feels to visitors and diners.

Little Tokyo Restaurants

Oishinbo
Nodasho
Riozen
Hana
Kagura
Urameshiya
Oishinbo
Yamazaki
Bunchum
Shinjuku Ramen
Kikufuji
Chotto Stop
Sekitori

Jen and I arrived a bit late for dinner. We were clueless where to eat as all restaurants seem to offer same menu of authentic Japanese food. We initially checked-out 2 restaurants and ended up dining at Oishinbo.

Dinner at Oishinbo Restaurant

Among all restaurants in Little Tokyo, Oishinbo has the most eye-catching facade. I must admit that it’s facade was our deciding factor in choosing Oishinbo for our first Little Tokyo visit.

To me, the restaurant’s interiors look a bit old. Oishinbo has this feel you get when you visit old restaurants in Manila’s China Town. Nonetheless, the restaurant is air-conditioned and very clean. As for the restaurant’s set-up, there are a couple of tables for groups. There is also a bar table for solo diners.

Oishinbo Menu

On their menu are Chuhai, Toriaezu, Yakitori, Nabemono, Kuysikatu, Sashimi, Sushi and Yakimono. If you drink, they offer Japanese beers such as Kirin beer and Asahibeer.

For the complete Oishinobo Menu, visit the links below:

Since it was our first time dining in Little Tokyo particularly in Oishinbo, we tried Japanese dishes that are familiar to us. We ordered Yakisoba and Pork Tonkatsu.

I was surprised the moment pork tonkatsu was served! I should say that the serving was good for two. The cut of pork tonkatsu is thick. Not the typical cut you get when dining in other Japanese restaurants. Along with the miso soup, rice, vegetables and Japanese potato salad, I should say that the serving is generous!

I personally loved the Japanese potato salad. As for the Yakisoba, it was a bit salty for our taste. Nonetheless, it was good.

Overall, our Little Tokyo experience was good. Oishinbo’s serving was generous and just right for the price. We will definitely return to search for the best Ramen in Little Tokyo. If you love Japanese food, Little Tokyo in Makati is worth a try!

Schedule: Little Tokyo Makati is open everyday from 11 AM and closes at 10 PM.
Contact Number: 02 8195008

Davao
...
- Food

Affordable Restaurant in Davao City – Lachi’s

Posted on November 23, 2017November 24, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

Apart from the Philippine Eagle Center, Crocodile Park and the beautiful Samal Island, Davao City is also a perfect travel destination for foodie lovers. It has various food places and restaurants to fulfill one’s gastronomic adventures. One of which is the local food place – Lachi’s.

Location

This must visit restaurant in Davao City is located along Ruby St., Marfori Subdivision. It is near Bankerohan Public Market, Davao Crocodile Park and Gaisano Mall Davao. Lachi’s is accessible from any point in Davao City via taxi.

Simple and Cozy Ambiance

Lachi’s Sans Rival Davao City Philippines

interiors

From outside, there is an indication that Lachi’s stood the test of time. It reminds me of old local restaurants I’ve visited during my travels. However, once you go inside, you will be surprised by its interiors. The furnitures and fixtures look new and the interiors are modern. Overall, the entire restaurant is very clean and well maintained.

Lachi’s Menu

Originally, Lachi’s started as a bakeshop and has become popular for its sans rival. If you have a sweet tooth, Lachi’s is the perfect food destination if you travel to Davao City. Apart from their mouthwatering deserts, on their menu are sandwiches, sausages, pastas and rice meals.

For Lachi’s Menu, click HERE.

Unforgettable Grilled Pork Ribs

I was very lucky to be with Jen who grew up in Davao City. She told me that Lachi’s has the best grilled pork ribs not only in Davao City but in the entire Philippines. We did not hesitate to order the Unforgettable Pork Ribs (180 Php per serving).

Lachi’s Unforgettable Pork Ribs is the best I’ve ever tasted! It is juicy and perfectly cooked. For the price, I should say that this particular dish exceeded my expectations. The serving of pork ribs coupled with rice is generous. The presentation and taste is truly at par with high-end and pricey restaurants in Manila.

Durian Cheesecake and Carrot Cake

For our desert, we ordered slices of Durian Cheesecake (72 Php) and Carrot Walnut Cake (60 Php). It’s surprising that their deserts particularly the cakes are very affordable!

I personally loved the Durian Cheesecake topped with a sweetened durian. It is something new to my tastebuds. The Durian flavor is a perfect combination to the cream cheese. Again at only 72 Php, this Lachi’s signature desert is truly a must try!

The Carrot Cake topped with cream cheese and walnuts was also delicious! Jen and I are fans of Carrot cakes. We find their version of carrot cake better as it is delicious and cheaply priced.

Affordable Restaurant in Davao City

If you are visiting Davao City and searching for the best local restaurant, I am highly recommending Lachi’s. It is accessible from any point in Davao City. The entire restaurant is clean and cozy. Customer service is good too. And more importantly, with their delicious and affordable meals and deserts, Lachi’s will both satisfy your taste buds and pocket!

Food
...

Where to Eat in Cagayan De Oro City? Boy Zugba

Posted on October 29, 2017October 30, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

Boy Zugba Kusina Bisaya or simply Boy Zugba is one among the few local restaurants in Cagayan de Oro City. This restaurant offers an array of grilled food and various Filipino dishes. If you are a foodie adventurer visiting Cagayan de Oro, Boy Zugba should be on the top of your to visit food places in the city.

“Zugba” comes from the Visayan word “Sugba” which means grilled.

Boy Zugba CDO Location

Boy Zugba is situated along Corrales Avenue where most of the local restaurants in the city is located. It is also few meters away from budget accommodations such as Rich Manor Pension House, LRD Pension, CDO Hotel Cento and hotels such as Southwinds hotel and Seda CDO. Boy Zugba can easily be reached from any point in the city via taxi.

The restaurant’s eye-catching facade is modern yet with a Pinoy feel. From outside, you can say that the restaurant looks cool inside. The photo I took does not give justice to the Boy Zugba’s facade.

Note: I was literally the last guest to leave the place. And they have already turned-off the lights in the restaurant’s signage.

Cool Interiors and Atmosphere

This homegrown Cagayan de Oro City restaurant probably has the coolest interiors and atmosphere among other local restaurants in the city.

I personally love this window full of hugot lines in Visayan language. Although I hardly understand Bisaya, I’m sure these lines are funny!

They also have a “kumusta imong love life?” (How’s your love life) corner. Guests may pick their fortune from a bowl full of hugot lines which I’m sure anyone could relate to.

Creative and Witty Menu

Boy Zugba also captured my heart with its creative and witty menu. Food on their menu are humorously classified such as Ang Fried of CDO, Do it… Pancit!, Sizzle Bebeh!, Bagetz Meal and Wow Sabaw!

Here is the complete Boy Zugba Menu:

Food

Since I visited the restaurant during dinner, I ordered Oppa Gambas Style (299 Php). It is basically Boy Zugba’s version of the Filipino dish Gambas.

It was a surprise that the sizzling Oppa Gambas Style is served with button mushrooms (which are my favorite) and bell peppers. Shrimps are bigger than the usual Gambas which are good. The sauce is just perfect for the generous amount of shrimps.The serving of this yummy dish is actually good for 2 persons.

For my dessert, I ordered “What’s your plan, Leche flan?” (49 Php). The presentation of this typical Filipino dessert was unexpected and cool!

Highly Recommended Restaurant in CDO

If you are travelling to Cagayan de Oro City in Misamis Oriental, make sure to visit Boy Zugba. The ambiance is cool, service is good and food is great! If you are a backpacker or a budget traveller, need not to worry as they have budget meals too!

Boy Zugba Operating Hours: Open from 11 AM to 11 PM on weekdays and 11 AM to 12 AM on weekends.

Boy Zugba Contact Numbers (They also have a branch at Centrio Mall CDO.)

Corrales (088) 880-5555 / 0917-7722450
Centrio (088) 859-0115 / 0917-7721834

Aklan
...
- Travels

D’ Mall at Station 2 Boracay Island Philippines

Posted on July 29, 2017July 29, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

D’ Mall is located in station 2 of Boracay’s white sand beach. This al fresco shopping center has been around Boracay for quite some time. D Mall has become a popular landmark in the island. It has established itself as the very first and the best one stop shop for anything that any tourist needs.

The entire D Mall complex is jam-packed with restaurants, bars, cafes, souvenir shops, travel agencies, money changers, ATMs and even hotels.

Things to do in D’ Mall

There are countless of things to do in D’ Mall. Fulfil your gastronomic adventures through a wide variety of restaurants. If you love shopping, D’ Mall will not disappoint you. There is a number of shops, mostly international brands, selling apparel from swimwear to casual attire. If you are a party animal, there is a good number of bars that will truly make your Boracay trip memorable. If you just want to simply hangout and relax, milk tea, coffee shops and cafes are everywhere. Souvenir shops are also all the place, you can buy your Boracay souvenirs from keychains, refrigerator magnets, t-shirts, bags and many others.

Tip: If you are buying Boracaray souvenirs, skip D’ Mall and go to D’ Market or D’ Talipapa instead. Souvenirs at D’ Mall are a bit expensive. You can buy souvenirs at D’ Market or D’ Talipapa at a cheaper price.

Below is a short video clip of our D’ Mall visit:

List of shops and establishments in D’ Mall Boracay:

French Nail
Hallowich
Sharetea
Bells & Blooms
Country Jeans
Levi’s
Rudy Project
The Tides hotel
Hama
Island Chicken Inasal
Lemini Cafe
Chanet Spa
Funkie Souver Shop
Fiesta Favorite Souvenir
Ralph’s Wines & Spirits
Golden Bamboo
Fila
a piece of green
Gem Talk
Hugo Home Lifestyle
Itti
Department of Tourism
Goldstar Inn
Happy Planet
Andok’s
Aria
Pick & Match
Big Mouth
The Hobbit
Crocs
Master Twister
Tres Amigos
Ram’s House of Wine
V.B. Queen’s Money Changer
Queen Bee Fruit Shake
Ole
Jeepney Stop
Rumba’s
Bite Club
Epic
Budget Mart
Cyma
Jammers

How to get to D’ Mall

Just walk along Station 2 and you will definitely pass by D’ Mall. The are signs indicating the entrance of D’ Mall. If you are staying in a resort, hotel or accommodation in Station 2, D’ Mall can be reached by foot in a couple of minutes. If you are staying in Stations 1 or 3, you can also walk along the white beach to Station 2. You will know that you are already in D’ Mall entrance if you see Epic bar along the white beach. Alternatively, you can ride a tricycle along the main road. Fare is 10 Php ($0.20) each for non-special trip. Just inform the driver to drop you off in Budget Mart convenience store at D’ Mall.

When nature calls, there are 2 paid public comfort rooms within D’ Mall complex. Just make sure to prepare 5 Php everytime you use the comfort rooms. D’ Mall shops opens at 7:00 AM and closes at 11:00 PM.

Overall, I highly suggest visiting D’ Mall if you are going to Boracay. The places if fun and truly a haven for food lovers and shoppers!

Tip: If you are visiting Boracay, get huge discounts on your Boracay hotel HERE.

1 Comment

Food
...
- Metro Manila
- Travels

Seaside Dampa Macapagal – Where to eat seafood in Manila

Posted on March 25, 2017August 6, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

Philippines is undoubtedly a must visit country for its countless beautiful islands with white sand beaches, waterfalls and welcoming and hospitable people. Being an archipelago, Philippines is also rich in marine life. Thus, backpacking the Philippines will not be complete if you will not try to eat delicious seafood. Roxas City in Capiz province is the country’s seafood capital. (Related: Where to eat in Roxas City, Seafood Capital of the Philippines) If you are travelling to Manila, the country’s capital city, You need not to visit Roxas City to enjoy delicious seafood. There is Seaside Dampa Macapagal, a seafood haven right in Manila to fulfill your seafood gastronomic adventures.

Where to eat seafood in Manila?

Seaside Dampa Macapagal is probably the largest seafood place in Manila. It is perfectly situated as it is near to various hotels, shopping malls and casinos. Seafood Dampa Macapagal is also few minute taxi or uber ride away from the Manila Airport (Ninoy Aquino International Airpbalatort). If you are bringing your car, there is a spacious parking area. Parking fee is 20 Pesos.

TIP: If you don’t have a car, it is easier to go to Seaside Dampa Macapagal if you will take uber from any point in Manila. I’m giving you 200 Php off on your first two rides. Just use promo code ‘edp1000ue‘ when you sign up HERE.

Seaside Dampa Macapagal Location Map

Shop for fresh seafood

Market at Dampa Macapagal — Market at dampa macapagal

A post shared by Ed Puno (@onearmedwanderer) on Mar 23, 2017 at 11:08am PDT

Interestingly enough, dining in Seaside Dampa Macapagal is more exciting as you get to shop and choose among the fresh seafood in the palengke or wet market. There is a number of stalls in the market selling fresh sea foods from small shells, shrimps, crabs, lobsters and many more. Just make sure to use your haggling skills as prices may be quite expensive compared to a typical wet market in the country. Nonetheless, you can get discounts from the sellers if you practice your haggling skills.

A post shared by Ed Puno (@onearmedwanderer) on Mar 23, 2017 at 11:06am PDT

Jen and I visited the place for the second time. I let Jen do the haggling and we were able to buy a kilo of shrimps for 550 Pesos and a kilo of crabs for 650 Pesos. Note that the price ranges based from the price of the seafood. The bigger the seafood, the more expensive.

Find a restaurant

Once done shopping for fresh sea foods in the wet market, the next step would be finding the restaurant to cook the seafood. There is a number of restaurants in Seaside Dampa Macapagal, all of which basically offer almost the same prices for the ‘paluto’ of sea foods. Paluto means to ask someone to cook for you. Basically, you shop for seafood and you go to a restaurant and ask them to cook the seafood depending on the dish you like based on their menu.

List of restaurants in Seaside Dampa Macapagal

There are various restaurants in Seaside Dampa Macapagal. Some even have karaoke which are perfect for family gatherings or birthday celebrations.

Aling Marya
Claire dela fuente
Cyrill grilled restaurant
Huey ying
Super wok
Papa dann’s grill
Seazars seafood paluto
Kayming
Ocean bay
Youjie restaurant
Hongkong Mastercook
Cuzina

Since it was our second time in Seaside Dampa Macapagal, after buying sea foods, we knew which restaurant to go – Hongkong Mastercook restaurant. We enjoyed our first experience of ‘paluto’ and dining in the restaurant.

The restaurant is spacious and probably the biggest in Seaside Dampa Macapagal. The service is good too! Their staff from the security guard to waiters are very courteous. Food is served fast and the dishes on their menu are very delicious. Patrons are mostly Chinese.

We checked the menu and instructed the restaurant’s staff of the dish we wanted for the seafood. We fell in love with shrimp and crab in red egg sauce the first time we dined in the restaurant. Jen and I asked the staff to cook 1/2 kilo of buttered shrimps, 1/2 kilo of tempura and a kilo of crabs in red salted egg sauce.

Menu of Hongkong Mastercook seafood paluto restaurant

Except for short order, note that the prices in the menu are only for the ‘paluto’ and are exclusive of seafood.

tempura, buttered shrimps, crabs in salted egg sauce

Basically, you will just order rice and drinks after giving instructions on the dishes you want for the seafood you bought in the wet market. We ordered a platter of rice, bottomless blue lemonade and mango juice. After few minutes, the drinks and the shrimps and crab in red egg sauce were served. The tempura was served 15 minutes later. We had no issue with the delay in tempura as the cooks had to remove the shell of the shrimps.

Budget?

Dining in Seaside Dampa Macapagal can be a bit pricey if you’re a couple or if you’re dining alone. We spent 2,321 for a sumptuous seafood meal. For the price, the servings were actually good for 4 to 6 persons. We actually had to take-out the leftovers as we barely consumed half of seafood we ordered. Here’s the breakdown of our expenses when we visited Seaside Dampa Macapagal:

seafood (wet market)

shrimps – 550 (1 kilo)
crabs – 650 (1 kilo)

Paluto (in Hongkong mastercook restaurant)

buttered shrimps – 175
crabs in salted egg sauce – 328
tempura – 198

Others (in Hongkong mastercook restaurant)

rice platter – 250
lemonade -75
mango juice – 95

Total: 2,321 Pesos ($46)

Overall, if you are a seafood lover travelling to Manila, I would highly recommend Seaside Dampa Macapagal. Being a local, I could not think of any place to fulfill my seafood gastronomic needs aside from Seaside Dampa Macapagal. The experience of shopping for seafood and having them cooked on the dish you prefer is something unique and memorable!

Visiting Manila, Philippines? Book your affordable hotel HERE.

Bacolod
...
- Food
- Negros Oriental

Where to eat Chicken Inasal in Bacolod City? Manokan Country

Posted on January 22, 2017January 22, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

Bacolod City is the capital of Negros Occidental province. Pegged as the City of Smiles for being a friendly city, it is also the home of the famous annual Maskarra festival. Aside from its friendly people and its highly anticipated festival, Bacolod is also popular for its specialty dish – Chicken Inasal.

Chicken Inasal is a marinated chicken pieces in a mixture of vinegar, pepper, annato and other spices then grilled using coals until done. The unique blend of marinade and basting make this typical grilled chicken extra sprecial! Today, chicken inasal has become popular and various restaurant chains serve this yummy Bacolod dish all over the Philippines.

Where to eat Chicken Inasal in Bacolod City? Manokan Country

Manokan Country Bacolod City — Namit ang manok sa Bacolod! Chicken in Balod is delicious!

Manokan Country is a popular food destination among locals and tourists. It is a food complex with wide array of open-air restaurants serving Chicken Inasal.

Located in Father Ferrero street, Manokan Country is just across SM City Bacolod’s north wing. If you are coming from any place in Bacolod, just hail a taxi and inform the driver to bring you to Manokan Country. If you are coming from Bacolod Ceres Bus terminal, cross the road and go to Silay terminal. From there, ride a jeepney bound to SM Bacolod. Just ask the driver to drop you to Manokan Country.

Manokan Country Map

After visiting The Ruins and several old houses in Silay City, I immediately headed to Manokan Country to try the authentic Bacolod’s Chicken Inasal. Manokan Country reminded me of Mahogany Market in Tagaytay. The only difference is that restaurants in Manokan Country offer Chicken Inasal instead of bulalo. (Related post: Where to eat cheap bulalo in Tagaytay?)

I observed that Aida’s Chicken restaurant was jam-packed with guests. Since there are many restaurants to choose from, I decided that Aida’s restaurant must be the place to eat Chicken Inasal in Manokan Country.

Aida’s Restaurant in Manokan Country Bacolod

Affordable Menu

Aida’s Chicken restaurant offers inasal dishes at an affordable price. The most expensive dish at Aida’s is chicken pecho which only costs 80 Php and garlic rice at only 30 Php. If you are a fan of chicken innards, they also serve atay, heart and tina-e (isaw).

Yummy Chicken Inasal at Aida’s Manokan Country

I was surprised by the generous serving size of Aida’s chicken inasal! I have eaten inasal countless times in Manila but Aida’s was really way far better! It was perfectly cooked, juicy and flavorful! I even had to order my second rice to finish the generous serving of their chicken pecho.

I’m a fan of soy sauce with calamansi but I barely consumed the sauce I prepared. The inasal itself is very delicious and is already good without sauce.

Overall, I super enjoyed the gastronomic experience in Manokan Country. It was nice to eat Bacolod Chicken Inasal right where it originated. I would definitely return to Manokan Country on my next visit to Bacolod City!

2 Comments