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Chocolates know no occasions. Whether it’s for your cheat day, a pick-me-up after a bad day, or a pat-on-the-back for a job well done, a nice chocolate bar can be had without any why’s. In the local mainstream market, quality chocolates are often exclusive to imported bars. We rummage through balikbayan boxes or scan the aisles at S&R or Duty Free to score these imported sweet treats. But thanks to several brands supporting local cacao farmers, this colonial mentality is being shattered to make space for homegrown bean-to-bar labels.
Here are Filipino-made premium chocolate brands that won’t disappoint!
Tigre y Oliva
The brainchild of Italian craft chocolatier Simone Mastrota, Tigre y Oliva uses cacao directly sourced from local farmers, putting emphasis on craftsmanship and sustainability in every bar. In partnership with social entrepreneur Rob Crisostomo, this Filipino-made premium chocolate brand helps educate farmers about best practices in agriculture and follows fair ethical sourcing “from seed to table.” It now has a chocolate factory in Mandala Park in Mandaluyong, where it experiments with different concoctions. Aside from their nicely packaged chocolate bars, Tigre y Oliva offers other sweet treats like cakes and cookies.
Even if you have little to no knowledge of locally made premium chocolates, chances are you’ve heard about Malagos. It is the recipient of several awards recognizing the world’s best in premium chocolates; most recently, Puentespina Farm, which produces the ingredients for Malagos, has been given the prestigious HEIRLOOM by the Heirloom Cacao Preservation Fund, the first brand to have been given that status in the Philippines.
Malagos chocolates are made from single-origin beans grown in Davao.
Theo and Philo
One thing that will catch your eye when you see Theo and Philo is its packaging: wrappers printed with illustrations of the country’s flora and fauna, punctuated by the brand’s logo—the iconic kalesa.
This Filipino-made premium chocolate brand’s packaging is just as good as what’s inside it. Their bars are made from single- origin beans and are classified into two: dark and milk. They vary depending on what additional ingredients they have—among the interesting ones are labuyo chili, turon, and adobo—and how much cocoa each bar contains.
A 45-gram chocolate bar is priced at P115. Theo and Philo also sells chocolate drinks and spread.
Auro
This bean-to-bar chocolate brand was founded by Kelly Go and Mark Ocampo, both of whom have no conventional background in chocolate making but are extremely passionate about anything chocolate. They went to Germany to study chocolate production before moving back home to form Auro. Their brand also organizes introductory classes to chocolate making as part of their efforts to help solidify the local cacao market. Auro is Halal-certified and is available online and in select stores nationwide.
This bean-to-bar premium chocolate brand in the Philippines sources their ingredients from the farms in Bohol. A family-run business, Dalareich started with only five kilos of cacao beans in 1994 before transforming into a brand that has received recognitions both locally and abroad. Dalareich was named after the owners’ daughter, who went to Belgium to study chocolate making. At present, this brand offers single origin bars, unsweetened chocolate, and cacao nibs.
Dekada offers chocolate bars at P100 apiece, with cacao level options of 50%, 60%, and 70%. We recommend their chocolate triangles perfect for sharing or snacking by yourself (we won’t judge). They also have tableya rounds so you can make your own tsokolate drink that suits the cold weather.
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When the weekend rolls around, nothing quite hits the spot like brunching like a boss! Luckily, Metro Manila is brimming with incredible dining options that cater to every breakfast food craving, from classic eggs Benedict to indulgent French toast, and even classic Pinoy dishes.
To help you discover your new favorite hangout, we've rounded up the top brunch locations that will have you saying "Mimosa, please!" Whether you're in the mood for a lavish buffet, a trendy cafe, or a hidden gem, these foodie destinations are sure to start your day on a high note.
Exchange Alley Coffee House
Photo by Website/Exchange Alley Coffee House
With a welcoming atmosphere free of pretension, Exchange Alley Coffee House champions the idea that specialty coffee should be accessible to everyone by finding common ground. Its name pays homage to Exchange Alley in London, a historic hub for coffeehouses dating back to the 1600s. Staying true to its inclusive philosophy, Exchange Alley serves an impressive selection of coffees and all-day breakfast that cater to different preferences.
Bean & Yolk
Photo by Facebook/BEAN & YOLK
If you’re torn between your love for coffee and eggs, Bean & Yolk ensures you’ll never have to choose. This café brings the best of both worlds, serving coffee and brunch all day. Indulge in their rose latte or hot mocha alongside a stack of fluffy ricotta pancakes, or opt for something savory like their flavorful avocado toast. With warm interiors, semi-al fresco seating, and thoughtful amenities like outlets for working diners, Bean & Yolk is perfect for a solo coffee break or a brunch gathering with friends.
Southbank Cafe+Lounge
Photo by Instagram/Southbank Cafe+Lounge
Southbank Café + Lounge in Westgate Center effortlessly combines the charm of an independent café with the allure of a cocktail bar. Whether craving a caffeine fix or a well-crafted drink, Southbank lets you indulge in both. Alongside their expertly curated specialty coffees, cocktails, and wines, the menu features an enticing array of options, including all-day breakfast, hearty mains, flavorful bar chow, and indulgent desserts.
Bungalow Café & Bakery
Photo by Instagram/bungalow café & bakery
Bungalow Café and Bakery offers the ideal setting for a laid-back date, with its cozy, airy atmosphere, rattan and wooden furniture, and charming potted plants. Coffee enthusiasts can enjoy classics like cappuccino, mocha, cortado, flat white, and long black, while those seeking plant-based options will appreciate their soy, almond, and coconut lattes. The café serves tempting all-day breakfast and mains such as pistachio pain perdu, strawberry French toast, prawn rolls, squid ink seafood pasta, and spicy honey garlic wings.
Cafe Fleur
Photo by Instagram/Cafe Fleur by Chef Sau
Café Fleur is a charming restaurant helmed by Chef Sau del Rosario. Rooted in his Kapampangan heritage, the café exudes warmth with its homey interiors and menu that playfully nods to his origins. Café Fleur now calls Poblacion home, where it continues to delight diners with creations like the “Vuco Fye,” a witty local twist on buko pie that hints at the chef’s Pampanga accent. This restaurant is a testament to resilience, born from Chef Sau’s experiments during lockdown and inspired by his mother’s cherished recipes.
Mirèio
Photo by Website/Raffles Makati
Nestled within the luxurious Raffles Makati Hotel, Mirèio is an elegant brasserie-style restaurant that has been enticing brunch enthusiasts since 2016. Serving authentic Provençal and French-inspired cuisine, Mirèio transforms the weekend ritual of brunch into an exquisite experience. Every Sunday, the Mirèio Brunch Society invites discerning diners to indulge in a lavish spread. The enhanced brunch features live cooking stations, where chefs prepare an array of tantalizing French and continental specialties.
Jones All Day
Photo by Website/Rain Tree Hospitality
Welcome to your all-day destination for any craving, any occasion—Jones All Day is the best of a bistro, bakery, and joinery. Step into this pet-friendly oasis and unwind in the charming al fresco seating. The aroma of freshly baked pastries mingles with the sounds of skilled artisans crafting bespoke furniture and decor pieces in the open joinery. Whether you're savoring a croissant and flat white, indulging in a leisurely brunch, or seeking a last-minute gourmet find, Jones All Day has you covered.
Kas & Poly
Photo by Facebook/Kas & Poly
Calling all astrology boys & girls! Prepare to be transported into a realm where culinary artistry meets the magic of the cosmos, as you step into the enchanting world of Kas & Poly. Guided by the captivating motto "Stellar Food + Cosmic Drinks," Kas & Poly presents a unique No Borders European-Mediterranean cuisine, inspired by the enigmatic Gemini Twins, Castor and Pollux. Open from 11 AM to midnight, seven days a week, this versatile establishment weaves together the symphony of Mediterranean, Turkish, Greek, Spanish, and Italian flavors, each dish meticulously crafted to speak to the unique personality of the 12 Zodiac Signs.
Cafe Mabini
Photo by Facebook/Cafe Mabini
Hop into the sunny, inviting atmosphere of Cafe Mabini, your friendly neighborhood all-day breakfast haven that's more than just a typical brunch spot. This vibrant establishment has mastered the art of turning the most important meal of the day into an all-day celebration, catering to every craving from dawn till dusk. Indulge in a wide selection of appetizers, seafood, meats, and more, all expertly crafted to satisfy your taste buds. And don't forget to pair your meal with one of Cafe Mabini's signature drinks — the perfect wingmen to your brunch favorites.
The Test Kitchen
Photo by Facebook/The Test Kitchen MNL
It all began in 2017 when Chef Josh Boutwood opened the doors to a small, tasting menu-focused establishment called The Test Kitchen. This intimate dining destination quickly captured the hearts and palates of the local food scene, establishing Josh's reputation as a culinary innovator. After a brief hiatus, Josh felt the call to revisit his original creation. At the heart of this revival lies a fundamental truth: time is an ingredient, and it will always be a guiding principle that shapes the evolving narrative of The Test Kitchen.
Museya Kafé
Photo by Instagram/Museya Kafé
Prepare to embark on a captivating fusion of art, history, and culinary delight at Museya Kafé, found within the ground floor lobby of Makati City's renowned Ayala Museum. This is the latest brainchild of Margarita Forés, the acclaimed chef who has graced the top of Asia's 50 Best Female Chefs list in 2016 and is renowned for her iconic creations at Cibo, Lusso, and The Loggia at Palacio de Memoria. At Museya Kafé, visitors can indulge in the perfect pairing of their "artistic fascination" and their craving for "delicious caffeination."
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For Year of the Snake, Okada Manila, famously known as “Manila’s Grand Icon”is pulling out all the stops, offering Forbes 5-star experiences in dining, entertainment, and even gaming, to bring luck, prosperity, and joy to the year ahead.
Website/Okada Manila
From Jan. 6 to Feb. 12, 2025, enjoy a Feast of Good Fortune at the hot Shanghainese dining spot, Yu Lei. Try their seasonal offering, “Banquet of Bountiful Blessings," priced at P8,800. This limited-edition menu will offer expertly crafted dishes like prized sea cucumber, savory noodles, and sweet rice balls.
For a more casual affair, head to Red Spice for their Fortune-Filled Feast, a menu rich in symbolism. Start with the Prosperity Toss Salad to invite abundance and enjoy wintery mains like Braised Fish Maw, Sea Cucumber, Mushrooms, and Seasonal Vegetables, believed to usher in endless luck.
End your meal on a sweet note at the Lobby Lounge & Pastry Shop, where limited-time desserts mark the season. Indulge in the Mandarin Orange Entremet, bursting with vibrant citrus flavors, or savor the Milk Chocolate Iris Macadamia Petit Gateaux for a decadent treat to share with loved ones.
Website/Okada Manila
Kickstart the year with holistic treatments at The Retreat Spa and The Sole Retreat. Enjoy Yin and Yang Therapy with a complimentary 30-minute scalp or hand treatment for P2,888, or opt for a Deep Sleep Wellness Therapy at The Sole Retreat, paired with a Gua Sha Back Treatment for a special rate of P1,688. These treatments promise to revive you, your mind, body, and soul for the year ahead.
For those seeking excitement, Thrillscape offers endless fun and adventure, and the chance to win big at a Lucky Numbers Challenge. Plus, the indoor facility PLAY is open to guests of all ages, guaranteeing a fun time.
Location: Okada Manila, New Seaside Drive, 1701 Parañaque, Metro Manila
Opening hours vary. For more information or the latest updates, visit Okada Manila on their website, or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.
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Manila definitely has its own secrets — especially when it comes to speakeasies. Hidden doors, secret passwords, and vibes straight out of the Prohibition era, speakeasies in the metro are giving nightlife a mysterious and stylish twist.
Whether you're looking for expertly crafted cocktails, a cool place to unwind, or an escape from the noise, these tucked-away gems promise an experience worth coming back to. Ready to find your next hidden hangout? Here's a list of Metro Manila's best-kept (not so) secret bars that you need to check out for yourself.
One way to know if you’re going to have a good night when you’re out partying is when your bar of choice has good music and drinks. Luckily for you, OTO crosses all that out. One of Makati’s greatest bars, it deserved its spot on Asia’s 50 Best Bars for 2019 (#47), 2021 (#61), and 2022 (#63).
OTO, a specialty coffee shop, craft cocktail lounge, and listening room all in one, is tucked away in a quiet street in Poblacion, the city’s most popular nightlife spot. With a curated vinyl collection behind the DJ booth, OTO — whose name comes from the Japanese word for “sound” — adds to its already sophisticated atmosphere with its polished cocktail menu.
Offering the classics and their own creations, OTO is the perfect place to be if you’re looking for a place to unwind after a busy work week. Our suggestion? Euphoria (P500)— no, not the TV show — but the cocktail that combines Tanqueray Dry Gin, Tonic Water, Lychee, and Coconut Water. Be warned: Its clear aesthetic might just fool you into thinking it's iced water or plain soda!
Location: OTO, 5880 Enriquez St., Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City 1209
Opening Hours: 11 AM to 1 AM (Tuesdays-Thursdays), 11 AM to 2 AM (Fridays-Saturdays)
Looking for a place to satisfy your whimsy and still feel chill? Join us as we fall down the rabbit hole and say hello to your newest wonderland, Run Rabbit Run.
Established in 2018 in an old residential home in Poblacion, Makati, Run Rabbit Run offers a different drinking experience for everyone — dates, friendly conversations, you name it. Homey and a little bit vintage, this cocktail bar finds inspiration in childhood fantasies and quirks, adding a fun little twist to your usual drinks of choice and making it rave among cocktail enthusiasts.
Our drink of choice? That would be their staple: Chillin' Like a Villain (P495). Made with gin, peach liqueur, azucar de caña, egg white, and sampaguita mist, this floral drink is perfect for kicking off the night or ending it on a chill note.
Location:Run Rabbit Run, 4991 P. Guanzon St., Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City 1210
Opening Hours: 6 PM to 1 AM (Tuesdays-Thursdays), 6 PM to 3 AM (Fridays-Saturdays)
Had a long and busy workday? Proceed to Out Of Office, situated in the center of Bonifacio Global City (BGC). From the outside, it all seems unassuming; its dark, modern-industrial chic style looks lowkey, but as soon as you walk in, you’re met with sleek interiors and an air of sophistication.
Patrons have often raved about their corporate-themed special cocktails and their Asian-inspired meals, making the place a go-to for many. Add a good DJ into the mix? Immaculate. These vibes are what we all need every EOD.
Our order? We’re always in for the mysterious — go for their Confidential (P500) cocktail whose ingredients are a mystery! If you’re looking for a cocktail whose ingredients are not redacted? Our top picks are The Hemingway Cocktail #2 (P420) or Hazelnut Spritz (P420).
Location:Out Of Office, G/F High Street South Corporate Plaza, 11th Ave. corner 26th Street, Taguig City 1635
Opening Hours: 4 PM to 1 AM (Sundays-Wednesdays), 4 PM to 2 AM (Thursdays-Saturdays)
From the name itself, The Whisky Library is a repository of whiskies, rums, and spirits from all over the world. Like those gentleman clubs we see in movies, the interior is luxurious and opulent. The Whisky Library, housed within the Newport World Resorts, is a haven for the whisky connoisseur, a welcoming introduction to the public, and a place for people who simply want to add a cosmopolitan touch to their drinking experience.
You'll be served by friendly and knowledgeable staff who are well-versed in the flavors and varieties of your drink, so you're sure to have a stunningly good time.
Plus, they even offer a happy hour from 5 to 8 PM, so you’re in good hands. Take a gander at their exclusive whiskey offerings, from Tamnavulin, Dalmore, Jura, and Dewar’s, if that’s your taste.
Location:The Whisky Library, 2nd Floor, Grand Wing, Newport World Resorts, Pasay City 1300
If OTO was already on your list, then you can’t miss its older and more refined sibling, The Curator.
The Curator Coffee & Cocktails is the Best Bar in the Philippinesand has consistently ranked among Asia’s best bars. Located in Legazpi Village in Makati, they’re said to only cater to “two of the finest things in life: caffeinated beverages and mixed drinks.”
The Curator’s minimalist yet cozy ambiance is just part of the reason why people come back; their coffee and cocktail offerings are just chef’s kiss, as they say. Presenting drinks perfectly curated to everyone’s tastes with artistic flair and expertise, The Curator is one to not miss out on.
We’d suggest trying any of their coffee menu during the day, then a taste of the Golden Ticket during the evening. That drink was inspired by Tim Burton's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Opening Hours: 7 AM to 5 PM (Coffee Hours, Daily), 6:30 PM to 1 AM (Cocktail Hours, Tuesdays-Sundays)
After Hours
Instagram/After Hours
Intimacy has become a luxury these days. For this Quezon City bar, however, intimacy is just equal to common courtesy. The After Hours cocktail bar presents itself as a sanctuary for the after-hours, inviting all of its guests to come in, unwind, and enjoy a nice drink, courtesy of their bartenders.
After Hours offers craft cocktails, a curated wine selection, and great whisky options fit for everyone’s tastes. They also have a dinner menu, with their Sinigang Risotto being the star of the show.
Their bartenders have recently revealed a creative selection of signature cocktails called, “The Bartender’s Playground.” What we’re dying to try? The Fab Four, made with sake, cognac, islay scotch, cherry wine, and brandied cherry. Or the Vodka Condensada which is made with vodka, ube macapuno, condensed milk, coffee liquor, cold brew, coconut milk, and topped with desiccated coconut.
Location: After Hours, 125 Roces Ave, Quezon City 1103
Opening Hours: 5 PM 'til late daily
The Blind Pig
Website/Trip Advisor
Opening back in 2011, The Blind Pig is the country’s first speakeasy — the Father of Filipino Speakeasies, as some say. Its name comes from the Prohibition era, living up to the speakeasy experience to the tee and pairing the ambiance with exclusivity and privacy.
The speakeasy is dimly lit and very intimate, and they’re strict with keeping the secrecy of it all with their no-photos policy. Their menu caters to light bites that pair nicely with their cocktail offers. If you don’t know what to get, then you can opt for The Bartender’s Choice (starts at P495), wherein they'll make your drink based on your preferences and mood.
If you’ve been wanting that authentic speakeasy vibe, then this place is your best bet.
Location:The Blind Pig, Ground Valuepoint Building 227 Salcedo Street, Legaspi Village Makati City 1200
Opening Hours: 6 PM to 2 AM (Sundays-Thursdays), 6 PM to 3 AM (Fridays-Saturdays)
Just Some Tips!
Make a reservation. Most of these places have limited seating, so it’s recommended to book way ahead of time.
Dress nicely. Think of it as respecting the place and vibe of these upscale bars.
Ask your bartenders anything! Sometimes, the best things aren’t on the menu.
Enjoy the mystery of it all. Discovering good bars in the most unexpected places can be one of the best feelings ever.
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This sweet, crunchy fruit snack has been a Chinese favorite for centuries, traditionally made with hawthorn berries coated in hardened syrup. Today, tanghulu has evolved into a global treat, featuring fruits like strawberries, grapes, and oranges. Recently, Metro Manila has embraced this well-loved dessert, with new vendors popping up in local markets and cafés. Whether you’re strolling through a busy weekend bazaar or exploring hidden culinary gems, these tanghulu treats in the metro will surely satisfy your sweet cravings.
Good Pastry Cafe offers a unique twist on tanghulu by featuring Shine Muscat grapes and Clementine oranges alongside the traditional strawberries. The staff here are warm and welcoming, always ready with a smile to make your visit more enjoyable. Pairing tanghulu with their delicious baked goods, this café provides a full culinary experience that’s perfect for those looking for something a little different.
Location:Good Pastry Cafe, 53 Connecticut, San Juan, Metro Manila
Are you craving strawberries? Berrylicious, known for its strawberry-centric offerings, serves a satisfying tanghulu with fresh, sweet strawberries coated in crispy syrup. For only P100, this treat is perfect for a weekend snack that everyone can enjoy. Find them at Greenfield Weekend Market every Saturday and Sunday.
Don’t forget to order a drink to end your tanghulu adventure on a high note.
Location:Berrylicious,Greenfield District Central Park, Mayflower St, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila
Fruitbites Tanghulu
For those on a budget, Fruitbites Tanghulu is the place to be. Offering an affordable twist on tanghulu, you can enjoy a stick of strawberry or grape tanghulu starting at just P30. Their reasonable prices make them perfect for a quick snack during holidays or local bazaars. Additionally, Fruitbites Tanghulu is an ideal spot to stock up, whether you’re sharing these sweet treats with loved ones or planning a well-deserved mukbang.
Location:Fruitbites Tanghulu, 157 M. dela Fuente Street Sampaloc 1008 Manila
Mr. QQ
Adding to the long list of dessert spots in Malate is Mr. QQ, known for its Taiwanese-inspired snacks, including tanghulu made with juicy strawberries and green grapes. At just P95 per stick, these tanghulu treats are perfect for anyone craving a crunchy, sugary bite. Going out and trying new things is always refreshing, and if you're near Malate, Mr. QQ is definitely the spot to check out for a fun and satisfying snack experience.
Location:Mr. QQ, Dominga Street, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila
If you’re in Tondo, Café Crisostomo is a must-visit for tanghulu lovers. Starting at P95 per stick, their tanghulu options include strawberries, grapes, and blueberries, offering a great variety for anyone with a sweet tooth. What’s more, the lively energy of the people around Tondo adds to the fun atmosphere, creating a food experience that’s truly unforgettable.
Location:Café Crisostomo, 2121 Velasquez St, Tondo, Manila, Metro Manila
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Get ready to raise a toast to the New Year — 1920s Flapper style.
Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill Philippines is gearing up to celebrate the upcoming New Year with a specially curated menu and live music on New Year’s Eve. With the theme “1920s Glamour,” The Ultimate Countdown is a reinterpretation of “The Great Gatsby” at its finest and most dazzling moments.
Guests with the most dazzling-themed outfits are set to win P10,000 each, guaranteeing a splendid end to 2024.
The specially curated dinner menu for The Ultimate Countdown at the Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill Philippines includes the crowd-favorite Beef Wellington, made with a slice of MB7 Wagyu Beef Fillet, and the tender Roasted Duck Breast with Smoked Beetroot Purée and Blackberry Jus as the mains.
The complete six-course menu starts with an Oyster Amuse-Bouche, Truffle Velouté of Pumpkin for Soup, Seared Halibut or Lobster Risotto for Entrée, the Mains, and ends with a Chocolate Truffle Mousse or Sticky Toffee Pudding
for Dessert.
The Ultimate Countdown
on Dec. 31, 2024, has a set menu dinner-only option for P7,888
nett per person, which also includes a welcome drink. This has two seatings from 5:00 to 8:00 PM, and 8:30 PM until closing. On the other hand, the Midnight Supper, from 12:00 MN to 2:00 AM, costs P1,888 nett per person. Live performances
will be done from 5:00 PM to 12:00 MN, all in good cheer to welcome the New Year.
To book your table and for more information, visit the Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill Philippines’ website at Newport World Resorts
and follow the Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill Philippines on their Facebook, Instagram,
and TikTok pages.
Opening Hours: 11 AM to 11 PM (last order 10:30 PM)
Reservations: Email at [email protected] or Viber/ WhatsApp Chat Only: +63 917 147 6576
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It’s the holiday season, which means it’s time to stuff our faces with delicious food! Think of it as a reward for a year of a job well done — and what better way to treat yourself than with something sweet and delightful?
If your Christmas spread is not complete yet, we’ve got you! In this article, we rounded up five of the sweetest, most satisfying treats you should get your hands on in this merry season. Ready your sweet tooth and check out our list!
This delectable treat from Bizu Patisserie is perfect for your Noche Buena centerpiece! Not only will it make your table more Christmas-y with its tree-like shape, but it will also delight your taste buds with its macarons, made with almond meringue shells stuffed with buttercream. It is available in a six-inch tower, but you can also get the one-foot and two-foot-high towers for a grander celebration!
To order, you can visit Bizu’s website or check out one of their physical outlets.
How much: P4,000 to P17,000
Baken x Theo & Philo’s Bacon & Toffee Dark Chocolate
Courtesy of Baken
Bring home the bacon — quite literally — this Christmas! Combining sweet and savory, Filipino brands Baken and Theo & Philo have collaborated to make a holiday-limited treat. This offering is made with Baken’s signature crispy and salty Real Bacon Crisps as well as Theo & Philo’s velvety rich, single-origin dark chocolate, with a hint of toffee to give you that distinct holiday taste.
Baken x Theo & Philo’s Bacon & Toffee Dark Chocolate is available for free for every purchase of three Real Bacon Crisps bags at partner stores, such as Brera Delicatessen, House of Cravings, Joel’s Place, and select Kultura Filipino outlets. You can also check out Baken’s offerings via their website.
How much: Free for every purchase of three Real Bacon Crisps bags (from P660)
Who else loves some crunch and chocolatey goodness? If you do, Conti’s Bakeshop’s Turtle Pie is a must-try! This melt-in-your-mouth chocolate pie boasts salted caramel-walnut filling, walnut toppings for an extra crunch, whipped cream, and chocolate drizzle for a sprinkle of sweetness. For an extra Christmas-y surprise, this dessert packs a punch with brownie and mallow fillings.
Order this delicious treat via Conti’s’ website or visit one of their stores.
Raise your hands if you’re a red velvet enthusiast (us included)! If there’s one thing to try at Starbucks every holiday season, except their holiday drinks, of course, it’s these fluffy Red Velvet Whoopie Pies. Aside from sporting Christmas’ festive color, this treat features a creamy and sinfully sweet cream cheese filling, sandwiched between two moist red velvet-flavored pies. It’s best paired with coffee, too!
Visit any Starbucks store near you or order via Grab, foodpanda, or Pick.A.Roo to get this sweet treat!
How much: P95 each
Betty’s Best’s Mini Bibingka Galapong
Photo from Website/Betty's Best
What’s Christmas without bibingka? This traditional Filipino rice cake is perfect for gifting, for your Simbang Gabi adventures, or to simply complete your Noche Buena spread. Betty’s Best offers one of the best bibingkas in Metro Manila with its soft and fluffy cake, especially when served hot. It comes in two flavors: original, topped with milky cheese, and ube, topped with sweet and delightful ube halaya.
You can order this classic Pinoy treat via Betty’s Best’s website or check out their stalls in Banner St., Pasig, Salcedo Market (every Saturday only), and One Ayala Mall in Makati.
How much: P270 to P290
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Eggdrop, South Korea’s Original and Premium Gourmet Egg Sandwich brand, is finally opening its first branch in the Philippines on Dec. 19, 2024 at the SM Mall of Asia!
Known for their mouthwatering sandwiches filled to the brim with fluffy, scrambled eggs, delicious filling, and topped with their special sauces, Eggdrop is bringing authentic Korean flavors closer to Filipinos, who have only seen such sandwiches in South Korean dramas.
Eggdrop first opened in South Korea in 2017, immediately revolutionizing the local food scene with its gourmet sandwiches. Since then, the brand has become a household name thanks to their innovative menu, visually stunning sandwiches, eye-catching branding, and collaborations with some of Korea’s top chefs.
The brand has also solidified its title as a “must-try” globally through its exposure in K-Dramas, K-Pop culture, and mukbang channels. Now, Eggdrop promises to bring premium, authentic Korean food to the Philippines.
“We are thrilled to introduce Eggdrop’s original and authentic gourmet sandwiches to the Philippines,” said Mr. Noh Young-woo, CEO of Eggdrop Korea. “The Philippine market, with its deep appreciation for high quality and the growing influence of Korean culture, is the perfect place for us to continue our global expansion.”
Nobody Out-Does the Original
Everyone at some point has already seen these sandwiches on popular K-Dramas "Hospital Playlist" and "Love Next Door." This led to a bunch of local imitations inspired by the egg sandwich, but nobody can quite outdo the original in terms of commitment to quality and authenticity, right?
Eggdrop’s signature sandwiches are made with A+ grade eggs and organic, locally sourced ingredients. The brand’s exclusive, perfectly baked brioche bread elevates every sandwich and sets it apart from other sandwiches in the market.
Bringing Something Unique to the Philippines
Stewart Lee Ong, the President of Butter and Salt Group Inc. and the franchisee of Eggdrop in Manila, said that he first encountered the brand in a “Hospital Playlist” episode.
After seeing that episode, the characters eat the sandwich, and how good the sandwich looked. He decided to give Eggdrop a try once he went to Seoul. Once he took a bite out of one sandwich, Stewart Ong said he fell in love and had to bring Eggdrop to the Philippines.
When asked by The Beat Manila about the reasons behind Stewart Ong’s decision to bring Eggdrop into the Philippines, he said that he wanted “something different and relatable,” noting the numerous samgyeopsal restaurants in Metro Manila.
Plus, Filipinos are deeply in love with eggs and comfort food, making Eggdrop the perfect fit for the Philippine market. It’s a no-brainer decision, and after a year-and-a-half of talks and development, Eggdrop is finally opening in the Philippines.
Eggdrop’s menu includes their classics like Mr. Egg, Bacon Double Cheese, and Garlic Bacon Cheese, which reflect the heart of Eggdrop’s philosophy — simple yet flavorful, high-quality sandwiches that satisfy every craving and comfort everyone’s sweet spots.
Mr. Egg is a simple, delightful, and satisfying sandwich filled with fluffy scrambled eggs, cheese, and Eggdrop’s signature sauce for a creamy and delicious finish.
With crispy bacon, melted cheese, scrambled eggs, and a touch of their signature sauce layered on their signature brioche bread, Bacon Double Cheese is a savory and satisfying sandwich.
On the other hand, Garlic Bacon Cheese is a fan-favorite for a good reason. This sandwich combines the rich flavors of garlic butter, crispy bacon, and melted cheese with scrambled eggs. Indulgent? Yes. Do we love it? Of course!
Their sandwich made for avocado lovers is aptly named Avo Holic. This comes with soft scrambled eggs, fresh avocado slices, and Eggdrop’s signature avocado sauce layered on their brioche bread.
Prices for Eggdrop’s sandwiches range from P120 to P205, with the option to add toppings and pair them with a drink of your choice.
Plans for Eggs-pansion and Future Growth
Eggdrop’s expansion to the Philippines is part of their commitment to growing its presence in Asia. Eggdrop is planning to open multiple stores in the Philippines over the next three years, bringing the brand’s iconic sandwich to key cities nationwide.
Their next location? Stewart Ong says Eggdrop’s second branch will open at Bonifacio High Street either by March or April 2025.
When asked if Eggdrop will be making a Filipino-inspired menu soon and his preferences, Stewart Ong said that it would be interesting to have tapa or chorizo flavors on the menu. Who knows, maybe they will introduce a menu exclusive only to the Philippines.
Eggdrop will officially open its doors to the public today! In celebration of their first store opening, Eggdrop is offering freebies and experiences to their customers.
The first 10 customers will be given a one-year supply of Eggdrop sandwiches, with one sandwich of their choice each month! The first 100 customers will be receiving pins, notepads, stickers, and other K-Pop-inspired merch from Eggdrop.
Experience the Eggdrop experience and how “Egg Makes Better” at Eggdrop Philippines! Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for more updates.
Location:Eggdrop Philippines, Ground Floor, Beside the Disney Store, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 10 PM
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