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If savoring Japanese cuisine is one of the reasons why you want to travel to the land of the rising sun, we’ve got some exciting news for you! Taste authentic gyukatsu and shabu shabu without flying as Ganso-Gyuktasu with Ganso-Shabuway, and Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu are opening right here in Manila.
In two separate Facebook posts shared by SM Mall of Asia, they shared that two gyukatsu are opening within their space very soon. Slated to open in July this year, Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu will be located on the second floor of the main mall.
Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsuguyu was established in Kyoto in 2014 as a pioneering gyukatsu specialty shop in the area. They are popular for their thin and juicy gyukatsu that just melts in your mouth! They use premium beef for the ultimate dining experience.
Meanwhile, the Ganso-Gyukatsu and Ganso-Shabuway can be found side-by-side on the first level of MOA Square starting this May! The mall teased diners with the caption “Taste authentic Japanese beef that melts in your mouth with Ganso-Gyukatsu 🥩 and savor the rich, delicate flavors of Ganso-Shabuway's shabu-shabu 🍜.”
Drooling? We feel you! Follow SM Mall of Asia’s Facebook page for more updates.
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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
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
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.
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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
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
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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It’s known knowledge that in the Philippines, Food is a love language. Filipinos’ way of saying “I love you” is “Kain na (Let’s eat!)” So it’s only right that the center of any Filipino Christmas celebration is good food.
International seasoning brand, Maggi, gets into the spirit of the holidays with a festive and heartwarming Christmas gathering celebrating Filipino cooking and the community. The “Gawing Magical Ang Pasko” Christmas event brought together members of the Nestlé team, media friends, chefs, food creators, and talented student chefs representing the top participating schools from the previous MAGGI Interschool Cook-off program.
An exciting cook-off session happened in the kitchen of the Center for Culinary Arts Manila, Taguig City where the winning students got to cook and prepare a scrumptious meal with their idols — the esteemed guest chefs
and food content creators who have inspired many to take the lead in their kitchens or simply create meals for their loved ones.
The student chefs from Taguig-based high schools, Kapitan Eddie T. Reyes Integrated School, Taguig Integrated School, Bagumbayan National High School, and Maharlika Integrated School were the top contestants from MAGGI’s Sarap Sustansya Cooking Education Program 2023. Guests were divided into ten groups and were joined by top food creators and chef mentors including Erwan Heussaff, Chef Jackie Ang-Po, Chef Tatung Sarthou, and Jujumao.
As everyone got all geared up with their aprons and toques, we moved to the kitchens and prepared popular Filipino holiday dishes like Menudo, Lumpiang Shanghai, Fried Chicken, and Spaghetti. This was all made extra special, of course, with Maggi Magic Sarap seasoning.
The cooking activity was filled with good laughs and the incredible smell of the dishes that were being prepared by the aspiring chefs and their mentors. This not only gave the young participants the rare opportunity to meet and learn essential cooking skills from experienced chefs, but also encouraged them to embrace the joy and passion that comes with preparing food for their loved ones. On top of this memorable experience, they also got to take home the delicious dishes they prepared!
"It was truly inspiring to witness the passion and creativity of these young culinary talents as they cooked with our food creators. This event reinforces our commitment to nurturing the next generation of Filipino chefs and celebrating the magic of cooking together during the Christmas season," said Rosa Simba, Business Executive Officer for Food and Dairy Culinary at Nestlé Philippines.
“For Maggi, Christmas is more than just a season — it’s an opportunity to inspire the next generation of cooks. By giving the young participants the tools, knowledge, and confidence to create dishes their families will love, Maggi hopes to ignite a lifelong passion for cooking and the joy of sharing food,” she added.
Each group was given forty-five minutes to make their dishes and got to present them afterward. It was heartwarming to see the smiles on each of the student’s faces as they expressed their excitement and heartfelt gratitude for the chance to cook and learn from their mentors.
Celebrity Chef and food vlogger, Erwan Heussaff,
shared one piece of advice for young cooks, which is to “Taste. Taste. Taste.Use your own personal bias, and flavor preference to determine what you like to eat and that will guide your food venture. You can make mistakes, and that’s okay.”
One participant even said that his mentor JinHo Bae taught him that “cooking is not just about cooking [technical aspect of preparing a meal]. It’s also about love.” This highlighted how the “Gawing Magical ang Pasko” was more than just a cooking event, but a celebration of family, the community, and the magic of Filipino cuisine.
After the delectable presentations, everyone was treated to a classic Filipino feast — a meal that was certainly every bit of magical as the holiday season — and it’s all made special with Maggi.
Let Maggi Magic Sarap be your secret ingredient in spreading love and joy this holiday season. Follow Maggi PH on Facebook and Instagram for updates and cooking recipes for your next handaan (feast).
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A proudly homegrown brand, ChaYi is the brainchild of Chinese-Filipino entrepreneur, Winchell Tan. Growing up in a traditional Chinese household, Winchell shares that tea was a big part of his formative years.
“ChaYi was inspired by my love for tea and the cultural traditions I grew up with,” he shared. “As a child, I often watched my dad brewing tea at home or during business meetings. For me, tea became more than a drink, it was a way to connect with our culture and traditions.”
After studying in China, Winchell became more even immersed in the richness of tea, taking time to learn about the technical aspects of the time-honored beverage. His experiences have now birthed ChaYi, a tea stall serving cold brew tea, lemon tea, and tea lattes (which are unlike the milk teas you’ve probably tried!).
Vibe And Venue
Located in Lucky Chinatown Mall, ChaYi taps into the love that Chinese-Filipinos have for tea. Its demure façade showcases white walls with blue accents, reminiscent of Ming porcelain. “The design of our stores and packaging reflects the elegance of porcelain while feeling fresh and modern,” Winchell commented. “This approach ensures that ChaYi remains rooted in tradition but accessible and relevant to today’s customers."
How much does it cost?
A competitive brand, beverages at ChaYi are priced between P140 to P195.
What is the menu about?
As of its opening, ChaYi highlights six different kinds of tea: five from China and one from Sri Lanka. Of course, there are plans to add more flavors in the future!
At the moment, there is the artisan Ceylon tea from Sri Lanka, which is bright, bold, and citrusy. From China, there is ChaYi’s bestseller, White Peach Oolong, which carries a strong aroma of fragrant peach. Pu’er is another exciting offering; this type of tea often comes shaped as a tea cake and is known for its mellow, earthy taste.
Osmanthus Oolong, much like the White Peach Oolong, boasts a floral, fruity scent that is a bit milder than the peach variant. Lastly, the Oriental Jasmine – which Winchell suspects will be a big hit with Filipinos thanks to the familiar scent of jasmine – and the Da Hong Bao. Da Hong Bao translates to “Big Red Robe” and offers a taste that is rich and complex, with hints of roasted earthiness.
These teas can be translated into cold brew tea, tea lattes, or even snowy lattes. ChaYi also offers a lemon tea series. Sweetness is customizable for all drinks; customers can choose between 100%, 75%, 50%, 25%, or 0% sugar.
What We Tried
The White Peach Oolong cold brew is a great start to anyone’s morning. Its mild, floral taste serves as a gentle wake-up call because while it does contain caffeine, it offers it in less amounts than those found in sugary coffee drinks. The best part? It contains a negligible amount of calories making it a fantastic option for dieters or calorie counters. Other cold brew flavors include Da Hong Bao and Oriental Jasmine.
The star of the show at ChaYi, however, has to be the brand’s tea latte. Unlike milk tea, the tea latte is light on one’s stomach. It carries the same refreshing quality but is only 200 calories per cup. Its formulation also allows the tea flavors to stand out, while carrying a comforting, milky texture. The Peach Harmony flavor is a definite must-try and uses White Peach Oolong as a base. For something more unique try the Yunnan Pu’Er or the Wuyi Rock Tea flavor (which uses Da Hong Bao). Each drink can be made iced or hot and comes with a unique three-holed straw that can be used as a stirrer too.
For something more indulgent, go for the brand’s Snowy series. These drinks come in two flavors; one uses Artisan Ceylon as a base, while the other uses Da Hong Bao. They are similar to the tea lattes, but feature a cream topping and a sprinkle of delicious pecans.
You can drink this in three simple steps: taste the cream topping with pecans, sip a bit of the tea latte, and then mix it all together for a creamy treat that’s sure to leave you wanting more!
Location: ChaYi, 2/F, Lucky Chinatown Mall, Reina Regente St., Binondo, Manila. Follow them on Instagram.
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