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Creativity and envy
Charlie Munger is the quieter and less known partner of Warren Buffet......»»
Hotel offering free buffet lunch for third wheels this Valentine s
On February 13 and 14, couples who book a table at 7 Corners can be accompanied by an individual who will eat for free......»»
Fa-BOO-lous Halloween celebration with your pups
Too cute to spook? Dress up your kids and pet dogs in fun and colorful costumes and take them to The Westin Manila for a Halloween lunch celebration and a Fa-BOO-lous Costume Parade on 29 October. The themed Sunday lunch buffet at Seasonal Tastes features a wickedly wonderful spread alongside premium meats, such as Australian Beef Rump, Turkey, BBQ Pork Ribs, Roasted Chicken and a variety of sausages, plus an assortment of sweets, treats and much more. Lunch is served from 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Every two adults who dine at the Halloween lunch buffet are entitled to two complimentary tickets for their children to join the Kiddie Costume Soirée in the afternoon at 2 p.m. To be held in the ballroom foyer on the second level, the afternoon activity is offered to kids two to 12 years old. The program includes games, cookie decorating, costume parade, giveaways and a five-minute self-portrait shoot per child at the A Studios booth. Pet dogs are invited to the Doggie Costume Paw-ty at the Lobby Lounge veranda at 4 p.m. Tickets are sold at P1,500, good for one dog and one pet owner, and the rate is consumable on food and drinks from the A La Bark and Lobby Lounge menus. The event will include a paw-lor game and costume parade, giveaways and a five-minute photo session for each dog at the A Studios booth. Register through westinmanila@westin.com or call 8256-2020. The post Fa-BOO-lous Halloween celebration with your pups appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Hotel’s all-day dining outlet offers vegan, lactose-free and gluten-free options
Spectrum, Fairmont Makati’s all-day dining outlet, reopened its doors last month, featuring an upgraded and elegant look with an array of gastronomic delights. Spectrum continues to provide high-quality international buffet complemented with fresh additions and a green dining experience. [caption id="attachment_200866" align="aligncenter" width="548"] CRISPY Pork Belly.[/caption] Explore and rediscover Spectrum’s interactive buffet which brings back the favorites, such as the Australian Prime Beef and Crispy Pork Belly at the carving station, delightful varieties of sushi and sashimi and the much-celebrated Western Station featuring roasted snapper and baked Barramundi. The Seafood corner, Shawarma corner and ice cream teppanyaki are ready to captivate the senses once more. [caption id="attachment_200883" align="aligncenter" width="438"] BBQ Ribs.[/caption] Spectrum also offers as ala minute brick oven pizzas, a new Daily Highlights corner with Philly Cheesesteak and BBQ ribs, an enhanced Asian corner introducing Vietnamese spring roll, Beef Rendang and Laksa soup, plus a dedicated Korean corner with Kimchi rice, Japchae and Bulgogi. The BBQ station now offers a selection of marinates including the Smoky Adventure flavor, Thai-spiced and Italian. Spectrum also introduces the Wellbeing corner, a thoughtful inclusion offering vegan, lactose-free and gluten-free options. Fairmont Makati’s Spectrum all-day dining is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The weekend upgraded buffet has live music entertainment. Sunday lunch features Sabroso Lechon and an extensive charcuterie. For reservations, call 8555 9840 or email dining.makati@fairmont.com. The post Hotel’s all-day dining outlet offers vegan, lactose-free and gluten-free options appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Margaritaville’s’ Jimmy Buffett, 76
“Margaritaville” singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett has died on 1 September at his home in Sag Harbor, New York. He was 76. A statement from his official website reads: “Jimmy passed away peacefully on the night of September 1st surrounded by his family, friends, music and dogs. He lived his life like a song till the very last breath and will be missed beyond measure by so many.” Buffett succumbed to Merkel cell skin cancer to which he was diagnosed four years ago. “He continued to perform during treatment,” the statement said while playing his last show, a surprise appearance in Rhode Island, in early July. Buffett, whose real name is James William Buffett, was born on Christmas day in 1946 in Pascagoula, Mississippi, and grew up in Alabama. He earned a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1969. He credited early years playing and singing in the streets and bars of New Orleans. Buffett’s recording career spans more than 50 years. His hits include “Margaritaville,” “Come Monday” and “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere.” His fans call themselves “Parrot Heads.” He also wrote songs about his plane being shot at by Jamaican police (“Jamaica Mistaica”), getting lost in the Sahara Desert (“Buffet Hotel”) and smugglers he had known around the Florida Gulf Coast (“A Pirate Looks at 40”). Buffett also authored bestsellers on both the fiction and non-fiction lists of the New York Times Book Review. The bona fide business mogul put up diversified lifestyle brand businesses, such as Margaritaville hotels, restaurants and retirement communities, along with sidelines such as Land Shark beer. Buffett is survived by his wife of 46 years, Jane (Slagsvol) Buffett, his daughters Savannah Jane (Joshua) and Sarah Delaney, his son Cameron Marley (Lara), his grandson Marley Ray and devoted dogs Lola, Kingston, Pepper, Rosie, Ajax and Kody. He is also survived by his Montana sister, Laurie Buffett McGuane (Tom), their children Heather Hume, Anne Buffett McGuane, Maggie McGuane and Thomas McGuane IV; his Alabama sister, Lucy Buffett and daughters Mara Delaney Buffett O’Dwyer and Melanie Leigh Buffett “and many more wonderful cousins, nieces and nephews.” His family requests that donations be made to Jimmy Buffett’s Foundation Singing for Change, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dana Farber Cancer Institute or MD Anderson Cancer Center. The post ‘Margaritaville’s’ Jimmy Buffett, 76 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Margaritaville’ singer Jimmy Buffett dies at 76
American singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett, best known for his 1977 hit "Margaritaville," has died at age 76, according to a statement on his website. "Jimmy passed away peacefully on the night of September 1st surrounded by his family, friends, music and dogs," the statement said. "He lived his life like a song till the very last breath and will be missed beyond measure by so many." The statement did not include a cause of death. Buffett's classic chill-out anthem "Margaritaville," about beachfront living with a drink in hand, spent 22 weeks on the Billboard chart, and helped launch his decades-long music career and a business empire. Known as the "Mayor of Margaritaville," he released nearly 30 studio albums of country, folk and tropical tunes, and also launched a line of resorts, restaurants and retail stores that capitalized on his laid-back, escapist image. Born December 25, 1946, in the US state of Mississippi and raised in Alabama, Buffett began playing guitar in college and later started performing on the streets and in the clubs of New Orleans, according to his website. He released his first record "Down to Earth" in 1970, and a year later traveled to Key West, Florida, a place that became synonymous with Buffett's paradise-themed music and lifestyle brands. Buffett also penned bestselling books, appeared in movies and on television, and had a brief Broadway run with his musical "Escape to Margaritaville." But his signature song -- and its refrain: "Wastin' away again in Margaritaville, searchin' for my lost shaker of salt" -- is what his legions of fans and beach holidaymakers remember most. "There are people out there looking for a good time for a few days a year," Buffett told Rolling Stone magazine in 1996, referring to his fans, known as "Parrotheads." "We come to town and we're the carnival or the Mardi Gras. People blow off steam and then go back and become basically law-abiding citizens," he said. "But to see them on those two days, you'd go, 'My God, this is the most drunk and boisterous maniac crowd you ever saw!'" "Rest in power @jimmybuffett," rapper LL Cool J wrote Saturday on social media platform X. "I'm glad we had time to vibe. You were and always will be a Truly inspiring human." Former US senator from Alabama Doug Jones said he was sad to hear of Buffet's death. "Following the election in 2017 he serenaded us in Key West with 'Stars Fell on Alabama,'" Jones posted on social media platform X, referring to Buffet's 1981 song. "He lived life to the fullest and the world will miss him." Buffett was preparing to release a new record this year, according to his website. sco/leg © Agence France-Presse The post ‘Margaritaville’ singer Jimmy Buffett dies at 76 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Vikings buffet partners with top culinary school to offer full culinary studies scholarships
Dreaming of carving a career path in the culinary field? You know you have the talent, the cooking skills, yes, but just how do you make that dream come true when enrolling in a culinary course which is the best entry point costs a fortune?.....»»
EB, EB Happy dominate August-19 rating charts; rule noontime slot
With its promising team of hosts and revamped format, TAPE Inc.’s Eat Bulaga, along with its new segment, ‘EB Happy,’ shows no sign of slowing down as it topped viewership ratings nationwide on August 19, Saturday, according to AGB Nielsen’s report. Overall, Eat Bulaga remains the undisputed number one noontime show in the country with a 3.48% Philippine National Television Audience Measurement (PHINTAM) rating, which surpassed E.A.T. 's 3.44% and It’s Showtime’s 2.81% ratings. The program’s 3.57% Rural Television Audience Measurement (RTAM) rating also continues to impress as it consistently outshines E.A.T. (2.22%) and It’s Showtime (2.19%) ratings in this category. “Masaya kami. Although ratings are important, TAPE is really thinking of how to make the show better—unmindful of the ratings,” Atty. Maggie Abraham-Garduque, TAPE Inc.’s legal counsel, emphasized. The esteemed lawyer also stressed out that TAPE Inc. is now focusing more on how to improve the quality of the show and ensure audience satisfaction and engagement, staying true to its new mantra, “Tahanang Pinakamasaya, Eat Bulaga!” Adding more brilliance to its success, Eat Bulaga’s ‘EB Happy’ segment has also received more love from viewers during its August-19 episode, garnering a whopping 5.59% in National Urban Television Audience Measurement (NUTAM) and 5.70% RTAM ratings. These numbers are in stark contrast with E.A.T’s ‘Babala! ‘Wag Kayong Ganun’ segment, which only managed to rack up NUTAM and RTAM ratings of 3.95% and 1.91%, respectively. Meanwhile, It’s Showtime’s ‘Tawag ng Tanghalan’ has earned 3.02% NUTAM and 2.36% RTAM ratings on the same episode, also lagging behind the fun-filled ‘EB Happy’ segment. While ‘EB Happy’ follows a traditional sketch comedy TV formula with a bit of “kantahan”, it sets a light-hearted and humorous tone right before the end of the show, allowing each host to showcase their comedic skills. Other segments throughout the show include ‘G sa Gedli,’ ‘Ikaw ang Pinaka,’ ‘Word of the Rings,’ and ‘May PaKey Sa Iyo.’ In a recent interview, Isko Moreno, one of Eat Bulaga’s regular hosts, expressed his enthusiasm and optimism, despite the unfounded backlash TAPE Inc. has been receiving. “We’re really trying to really put our best foot forward every single day. And we’re very happy also with the numbers,” Moreno said. The veteran actor and host also likened Eat Bulaga to a buffet that has so much to offer to the public. Moreno added, “Basta kami, spread love and good vibes lang…Ganun ang mindset namin everyday.” He also applauded Eat Bulaga’s creative and production team, as well as TAPE Inc.’s management, for wanting to come up with a viewer-centric program that aims to pay happiness forward. The post EB, EB Happy dominate August-19 rating charts; rule noontime slot appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Vamos A Comer! A celebration of taste and friendship at Discovery Suites Manila
Prepare your taste buds for an exquisite culinary journey as Discovery Suites’ Restaurant 5 proudly presents Vamos A Comer!, a one-of-a-kind Filipino-Mexican Buffet Fridays this August as Discovery Suites’ executive chef, Gerwin Bailon, shares the kitchen with his long-time friends and chefs of Buen Comer Mexican restaurant......»»
Luxurious escape in Iloilo
Richmonde Hotel Iloilo opened its doors in 2015 and pioneered the transformation of the hospitality industry in the Western Visayas region by introducing first-rate facilities and services world-class travelers deserve. As it turns eight years old this month, the hotel is spreading cheer and good fortune with exciting room offers and an epic dinner experience. Designed for those looking for a luxurious escape to revel in fun relaxation, Richmonde’s Celebrate Eight Room Packages will make any guest feel lucky. For a day of soothing comfort and stimulating activities, book the Rejuvenate Package, which is suitable for two persons and comes with an overnight stay in a Deluxe room with a breakfast buffet at The Granary, choice of ventosa, aromatherapy, Moroccan full body, head+back, or head+foot massage service, P1,500 worth of dining credits that may be used for food and beverage orders at any of the hotel’s restaurant outlets, namely The Granary, BizBar and Zabana Bar, or from room service. This package is priced at only P8,888. [caption id="attachment_163861" align="aligncenter" width="768"] RICHMONDE Hotel Iloilo[/caption] Level up quality time with family and friends and create meaningful moments with the special Rest & Recreation Rates, valid for two-night stays. Room accommodations for two persons are as low as P8,888 or P4,444 per night (room only) and P9,888 or P4,944 per night (room with breakfast buffet). All rates mentioned above include Wi-Fi access and complimentary use of the gym and pool. This special anniversary room offer is available until 31 July. Richmonde Hotel Iloilo has always been known for its tasty and innovative menus that pay homage to Iloilo’s rich culinary heritage. For its eighth anniversary, Richmonde presents Panumdúman, a unique one-night-only gastronomic adventure that aims to capture the nostalgic flavors of our fondest childhood memories in an elevated degustation dinner. As Richmonde Hotel Iloilo celebrates another year in the business, it is also primed and ready to serve its guests even better. General Manager Natalie Lim said, “We owe our success to all the guests and clients who have supported us throughout the years. In return, I can assure you that we will continue to work hard to provide you with only superb products, excellent services, and most of all, happy, enriching experiences.” The post Luxurious escape in Iloilo appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Jewels in the Palace kitchen
Power and food. These are not usually spoken in the same sentence, but hey, they go hand in hand. Last September, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos posted on her official Facebook page a photo showing her at the groundbreaking ceremony of the new catering area in Malacañang. No other details of the project were released. The post got mixed reactions from netizens. However, despite the praise and criticisms of said post, it somehow got us into thinking — who are the people behind the important functions of each and every chief executive living in the Palace? Hands down, Glenda Rosales Barretto comes to mind. The one and only doyenne of Philippine cuisine. She of the Via Mare fame. From Ferdinand Marcos Sr. down to Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Barretto presided over numerous state dinners in Malacañang. The most recent was the inaugural ball of the 17th president of the Philippines, Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. Barretto is caterer extraordinaire well-known for reinventing and refining Filipino dishes fit to be served at the highest tables in the land. During PBBM’s inauguration, she served savory chicken soup with ginger, lemongrass and green papaya (more like a deboned chicken tinola), prawn in roasted coconut cream, seared prime beef tenderloin with kaldereta sauce and guava-basil sorbet. Barretto is also popular for her humba (a Visayan braised pork similar to the classic adobo), crispy adobo flakes (ultra crunchy and extra flaky dish using chicken, beef or pork), pancit luglog, puto bumbong and bibingka. Via Mare, founded in 1975, has a well-established and long-standing reputation of being the choice concessionaire to do banquets for heads of state and international guests in the Palace serving traditional flavors. It can be recalled that Barretto rose to prominence when she catered the silver wedding anniversary of President Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos, and soon after became the official caterer of the Palace. [caption id="attachment_161357" align="aligncenter" width="1137"] MARGARITA Fores | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESYOF www.theworlds50best.com/[/caption] Margarita “Gaita” Fores Gaita Fores has also been trusted in handling the country’s most delicious affairs, hosted by the Palace for visiting chiefs of state. “I started catering only during Presidents Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino’s time,” said Fores in a text message to Daily Tribune. Fores recently catered the state dinner for Czech Republic Prime Minister Petr Fiala, the first European prime minister to visit the country under the new administration to discuss trade relations and mutual cooperation. The Asia’s Best Female Chef also served a delectable Filipino spread before the men and women of the diplomatic corps during the last vin d’honneur in Malacañang to celebrate the 12 June Independence Day. In 2016’s vin d’honneur, the last major function of the Aquino administration, Fores’ Cibo presented a Filipino buffet of three kinds of longganisa, toasted adobo flakes and corned beef flakes. Fores, who’s been in the food business for more than 30 years, has also prepared presidential dinners for King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia, US Presidents George Bush and Barack Obama and Prince Albert of Monaco in Malacañang state dining room. Fores is the first cousin of former senator and interior secretary Mar Roxas, who is the second cousin of First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos. Chef Jessie Sincioco Jessie Sincioco, dubbed the “Papal Chef,” is still the most in demand chef for fine dining and fine catering today. She has served the dining pleasure of Presidents Corazon Aquino, Fidel V. Ramos, Joseph Ejercito Estrada, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Noynoy Aquino and Rodrigo Duterte. She catered the inauguration lunch of PBBM for the diplomatic corps at the National Museum, serving smoked milkfish on toast with bihod, mini croissant sandwiches of smoked salmon or chicken salad, mini pandesal stuffed with chicken adobo or grilled kesong puti, lemongrass chicken, brochette of beef lamb ball with potato and ensaimada balls with ube halaya, to name some. A frequent caterer to Malacañang, Sincioco shares with us some of the favorite food of each president that she has served through the years. “Tita Cory loved spinach mushroom soufflé,” said Sincioco in a text message to this writer. “FVR, pan-fried Chilean seabass. Estrada, roast beef. GMA, chocolate durian souffle. PNoy, US black angus bistek. Digong, pan-fried Chilean seabass. BBM, brochette of lamb and beef ball with potato (pica-pica).” [caption id="attachment_161361" align="aligncenter" width="730"] millie and Karla Reyes. |PHOTOGRAPH COURTESYOF www.flavorsoflife.com[/caption] The Plaza The Plaza Catering, another reputable food and catering service run by the mother-and-daughter team of Millie and Karla Reyes, also has the privilege of serving the head of state and official banquets. “We have catered all presidents from Marcos Sr. to Duterte,” said Karla. “Not yet with PBBM.” The Plaza has been in the business since 1965 and is well-known for its piece de resistance — The Plaza premium baked ham and corned beef which Millie and Karla include in the menu whenever they cater to the Palace banquets. The Plaza has played host to foreign heads of state, such as Pope Paul VI, US Presidents Lyndon B. Johnson and George H.W. Bush, Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Premier Li Hsien Yen of the People’s Republic of China. They also shared their version of the presidents’ favorites. “Marcos Sr., fish and Ilocano food. He had his own cook preparing his meals,” said Karla. “Imelda, steaks and she’s a very good cook. Erap, lechon and our boiled Angus corned beef and baked ham. GMA and husband Mike, The Plaza ham. PNoy, barbecue and angus tapa.” She added: “For Duterte, we didn’t get to serve him up close and personal. We catered an event at Malacañang but he came like five hours late to his own event so he didn’t eat anymore.” [caption id="attachment_161358" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Bulak Bustaliño at the Arlegui Guest House in 1996. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF kusina ni maria[/caption] Kusina ni Maria During the time of Cory Aquino and Fidel Ramos, Kusina ni Maria would also cater to Malacañang events, including special occasions at the Arlegui Guest House, where Cory and FVR lived during their time while holding government affairs in the Executive Building. Among their favorites were lengua con setas, chicken relleno, callos a la Madrileña, zarzuela de mariscos, grilled blue marlin, sarsiadong bias, paksiw na bihud, asadong curacha, tostadong alimango, kare-kare oxtail with bagoong, lao-ya, minaisang kabute and pancit buko. “Same dishes as what we have now,” said Ding Bustaliño, who now runs Kusina ni Maria founded by her late mom Bulak Bustaliño in 1984. “I used to join my mom in Arlegui when she would check the table setting, flowers and those were the food she would serve.” The real jewels in the Palace — made up of the virtual who’s who in Philippine cuisine — are in the kitchen. The post Jewels in the Palace kitchen appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
WATCH: Sharon Cuneta sings own ‘Balutin Mo Ako’ version; admits to ‘mag-Sharon’ habit
In an exclusive interview with Philstar.com following her launch last week as new endorser of Filipino insurance company InLife (Insular Life), “Megastar” Sharon Cuneta said she does not mind if people nicknamed “mag-Sharon” or taking out food from the buffet after her – because she does not only do it, too; she even has her own song for it!.....»»
Bawal magbalot : Sharon Cuneta quips on viral Balutin Mo Ako buffet meme
Sharon Cuneta is aware of the meme that involves her classic song "Bituing Walang Ningning" and its reference to the viral "Balutin Mo Ako" meme involving taking home food from the buffet. .....»»
Over the Moon at The Gardens by The Bay
Filipino couple Abbie Caram and JM Tiongco celebrated their nuptials in style with a Crazy Rich Asian-themed wedding party that took over Silver Garden-Silver Leaf at the world-famous Gardens by the Bay in Singapore, no less, on 18 June 2023. The couple spared no expense in creating a lavish and extravagant affair that transported guests to the opulent world created by Kevin Kwan. The event was a true spectacle, with most guests arriving in their finest attire, ladies in formal tea-length dresses and the men in barong. The venue was transformed into a glamorous paradise with Asian-inspired accents, orchids, red roses, sunflowers and birds of paradise — the bride’s favorite flowers. The radiant bride wore a stunning gown from Vera Wang, while the groom was in a custom-made suit by AJ Aldeguer Javier. [caption id="attachment_151738" align="aligncenter" width="525"] THE groom Abbie with parents Cora Buffa and Juan Fermin Caram.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_151732" align="aligncenter" width="525"] DENESSE Cajulis, Bettina Tiongco, Mary Golez, bride JM Tiongco, Maria Cecilia Tiongco, Sharmine Salarda, Nicole Golez and Seym Caram.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_151731" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ERNEST Corpuz, Jesnin Ponsaran, Giorgi Borres, groom Abbie Caram, Nino Caram, Ghed Caram and Andre Zaldarriaga.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_151729" align="aligncenter" width="525"] SOFIA and Judy Abalos.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_151725" align="aligncenter" width="682"] NAPOLEON Tiongco III[/caption] The party was complete with full-service bar, overflowing wines and a groaning buffet table filled with over-the-top cuisine prepared by one of Singapore’s top caterers. The entertainment included a live band and a DJ, as well as the traditional Chinese Lion Dance and Ribbon Dance. The couple’s wedding was attended by family members, close friends coming from different parts of the world, including several prominent figures in the business world. Guests were treated to a night they will never forget, with the event being hailed as one of the most extravagant and exclusive parties of the year — immediately trending on social media. Abbie Caram is the son of Juan Fermin Tan Caram and Cora Buffa, while JM is the daughter of Dr. Napoleon Tiongco Jr. and Sheilla Marie Golez- Tiongco, who all belong to prominent families of Iloilo. [caption id="attachment_151737" align="aligncenter" width="525"] CORA Buffa in a Michael Leyva creation with Tina Ita-as.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_151736" align="aligncenter" width="525"] CONG. Mikaela Suancing, COng. Horacio Suancing Jr. and Ging Suancing.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_151733" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Mary May Golez and Maria Cecilia Tiongco.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_151730" align="aligncenter" width="525"] BRIDE’S parents Sheilla and Dr. Napoleon Tiongco Jr.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_151734" align="aligncenter" width="525"] JESSIE Golez, Ian Golez, Cristina Golez, Joy Golez and Gerald Golez.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_151735" align="aligncenter" width="525"] JOHN Deza, Kristine Dez, Leo Daza, Kiks Castelo, Joanne Castelo, Erik and John Castelo.[/caption] Abbie and JM left no stone unturned in creating a wedding party that truly embodied the Crazy Rich Asian lifestyle, from the luxurious decor to the gourmet food and topnotch entertainment, giving their guests an unforgettable evening that they will be talking about for years to come! Congratulations to the happy couple. The post Over the Moon at The Gardens by The Bay appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Stylish, modern weddings ala mode by Diamond Suites
Weddings become a stylish and delectable fête at Diamond Suites & Residences. The hotel begins forever with a wedding reception that encapsulates modern sensibilities. First and foremost is an ideal location, conveniently within Cebu’s premier business district, and bold designs in aesthetics, and modern preferences in dining. Menus comprise wide and sumptuous buffet sets in […] The post Stylish, modern weddings ala mode by Diamond Suites appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Swiss welcome offers sweet respite
Welcome to “The Suite Life,” which explores the world of hotels in and out of the Philippines. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious novice, I hope this column helps guide you to what hotels in the Philippines and beyond have to offer. From the bustling cityscape of Manila to the tranquil beaches of Boracay, it’s a journey through the best hotels, resorts and villas in the country and beyond to discover the most exciting and exotic hotels in the world. Pack your bags and join me on this exciting adventure as I share the hidden gems and ultimate destinations for your next getaway. Our first hotel for this month is the Swissötel Clark in Pampanga. [caption id="attachment_148661" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF Swissötel Clark | Swissötel Clark Pampanga.[/caption] Cheese and chocolate, watches and private banks — if there’s any country defined by these words, it’s Switzerland. Renowned for its punctuality and precision, the country is very well-known for its high-end horology. If you want to know how deep this characteristic runs within the country, Switzerland’s national hero, William Tell, is more famous for shooting an apple off his son’s head than his defense of Switzerland from many a tyrant. Such precision is what Tell and Switzerland are known for, and it’s this exact value that the Swiss carry into hospitality. [caption id="attachment_148662" align="aligncenter" width="525"] THE atrium.[/caption] Apart from what the history books will say about Switzerland, it’s also a place I’ve gotten to know up close. I lived in Neuchatel when my husband was taking his post-grad degree and got to imbibe in its culture and way of life, day in and out. It’s always in the details. These may seem minute or effortless, but they always add a thoughtful layer to the whole experience. Such touches abound at Swissötel Clark, and it definitely reminded me of the Swiss approach to doing things. The welcome: Located in the Clark Freeport Zone, I was surprised to find the hotel packed and buzzing. The lobby café was full, leaving no seats available, and the bright, bustling lobby was filled with people waiting — either for loved ones or colleagues — to be taken in by Swiss hospitality or having just finished a relaxing stay. The lobby was a walk away from the casino, leaving the vibrant lobby to shine all on its own. The room: Rooms and suites at Swissötel Clark welcome you with floor-to-ceiling views of the city or the mountains, flooding the room with natural light. A medley of creams, grays and browns, coupled with a king-size bed and Posturepedic mattress, high-speed Wi-Fi, cable and satellite TV channels, and USB charging stations provide a great sense of comfort for anyone looking to relax. The bathroom continues this philosophy with marble furnishings, a rain shower, and a soaking tub. Anyone looking for a more luxurious experience can upgrade to a Swiss Executive Lounge access suite with complimentary breakfast and refreshments. [caption id="attachment_148664" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PREMIUM room with king size bed.[/caption] The restaurants: I wasn’t able to try the breakfast because my alarm didn’t go off that morning, but I was able to try meals at Swissötel Clark’s two restaurants. Markt is their all-day dining buffet with incredible food. Initially conceived as an a la carte offering for diners to choose from, every station offers the full package with mains at every section, making them all stars in their own right. The hotel also has a permanent place on the menu for classic Swiss dishes like älplermagronen (Swiss macaroni and cheese with applesauce) and Zurich-style veal with mushrooms. [caption id="attachment_148663" align="aligncenter" width="525"] NASI, a contemporary restaurant that specializes in Filipino cuisine.[/caption] Ristorante Di Verona, on the other hand, is easily one of the best places to try modern and authentic Italian cuisine without leaving the country. With large, luxurious windows and al fresco seating, their spacious halls are filled with soothing Italian music and the noise of happy diners. They offer a fine selection of aperitifs, over 300 wines sourced from various regions of Europe, digestivos, and other Italian favorites, as well as their famous balsamico de Modena 25 anni 550, delightfully paired with Italian bread. Unique touches to the hotel: Details like the collar brooch and the shoe buckle of the doorman did not go unnoticed. The doorman is the first to greet visitors and serve as the best representation of the Swiss tradition of service. Their gear resembles the Appenzell costume designed by Ida Gout and the delicate brooch designed by goldsmith Sebastian Fassler shows a lot of care and thought for the kind of service they want to bring. The hotel itself also makes use of Appenzell design, the town famous for its mountain range. One must also have the Swissötel traditional cake with its notable ingredient of ground hazelnuts. Experiential for all senses that pull focus on their attention to what matters. The Spa: Swissötel Clark will launch their spa and Vitality suites soon. Every one of their six private suites will have its own gym equipment for guests to enjoy their fitness regimens in private. Swiss mindfulness podcasts, the Vitality kit, wellness treatments, and menus round out the entire experience for a great session. Outside, on the other hand, lets guests exercise with fresh air on bike and jogging paths as part of the hotel’s promotion of a healthy environment. I’m hearing that one of the managers hails from a 5-star hotel in Mandaluyong with a very good spa, who is also a professional therapist with a good grasp of wellness and treatments — a lot of which they can do themselves, so consider my expectations high. [caption id="attachment_148665" align="aligncenter" width="525"] VITALITY suite[/caption] Great food, comfortable rooms and fresh air for all — they did not miss a beat when it came to bringing Swiss hospitality to the country, even down to the finest details. Taking a trip up north to Pampanga is a great way to retreat from the city for a bit, made even better if you’re staying at Swissötel Clark. The post Swiss welcome offers sweet respite appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Dad’s Day treats
Escape at The Pen [caption id="attachment_144658" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photograph courtesy of the peninsuLa manilaTRIUMPH motorcycle[/caption] The Peninsula Manila offers dads a weekend staycation while indulging in Escolta’s Sunday brunch buffet. Make sure he also gets to experience Salon de Ning’s one-afternoon-only pop-up Pen Ultimate Father’s Day Dream Lounge, where he’ll enjoy complimentary cocktails and pica-pica and snazzy grooming services. The Dream Lounge will offer complimentary male grooming services from Back Alley Barbershop; a display of Triumph motorcycles and automobiles from Rolls-Royce, Lotus and Mini Cooper; For Him skincare by VMV Hypoallergenics whose expert technicians will provide complimentary hand treatments; funky and functional ceramic art from Pottery Sessions, custom-made menswear crafted in Singapore by Common Suits; pens and inks for fountain pen aficionados by Manila Pen; bespoke spectacles by R.E.M. Rapid Eye Movement Manila; rare timepieces from Vintage Grail, collectible vinyls and DJ music; artisanal chocolates from Auro Chocolate; and small bites and innovative cocktails. E-mail ReservationPMN@peninsula.com. Toast to Dad Conrad Manila has an exclusive Father’s Day promo. Brasserie on 3, the hotel’s signature restaurant, presents “Feast to Fatherhood” on 17 to 18 June, with P3,500 nett lunch and dinner buffet. As a special treat, dads dine for free with every four paying adults. China Blue by Jereme Leung has the “Father’s Day Feast Set Menu” from 16 to 18 June, priced at P49,880 nett for 10 persons. At C Lounge, it’s time for “Dad’s Night Out” until 18 June. Starting at 5 p.m., this extraordinary experience is priced at P2,288++ and includes a three-glass whiskey flight, one cigar and five truffle chocolate balls. Bru, Conrad Manila’s beloved café, invites guests to “Treats for Tatay” throughout the month of June. With a minimum purchase of P1,000, dads receive a complimentary Father’s Day mini cake. Conrad Spa offers the ultimate rejuvenation experience for dads with the exclusive “Father’s Day Rejuvenation” package. Visit www.conradmanila.com or call 8833 9999. Day delights [caption id="attachment_144645" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photograph courtesy of city of dreamsCrystal Dragon’s Chilled Spicy Marinated 25 Heads Chilean Abalone with squids, shrimps, and clams.[/caption] City of Dreams Manila’s Crystal Dragon presents an exclusive Father’s Day menu until 18 June. Choices include Chilled Spicy Marinated 25 Heads Chilean Abalone with squids, shrimps and clams; Double-boiled Sea Treasure Soup with maca, fish maw, conpoy and pork stomach; Roasted Farm Duck with black truffle sauce; Sauteed Australian Asparagus with shrimps and morel mushrooms; and Braised Fujian Fragrant Rice with assorted seafood and eryngii mushroom. Nobu Sunday Brunch features a lavish spread of new-style Japanese cuisine popularized by world renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa at P4,388. Restaurants at The Shops at the Boulevard are not to be missed. Jing Ting, specializing in Northern Chinese cuisine including fresh hand-pulled noodle dishes, and Red Ginger, which offers authentic Southeast Asian dishes, are both offering menu exclusives for the month of June. Rossi Pizza, Hidemasa, TungLok Signatures, Mango Tree, J. Park Garden, Modern Table and the newly opened Wolfgang’s Steakhouse and Grill are equally worth a visit. Call 8800-8080 or e-mail guestservices@cod-manila.com or visit www.cityofdreams manila.com. Drink of choice [caption id="attachment_144657" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photograph courtesyof new world makati‘SHAKEN Not Stirred’ gin.[/caption] New World Makati Hotel’s “A Toast to Dad” room package includes breakfast and dad’s cocktails of choice, a hearty buffet feast at Café 1228, all-you-can-eat dim sum at Jasmine, as well as decadent cakes and sweets at The Shop. Whether dad’s drink of choice is a whisky, gin or rum-based concoction, the “A Toast to Dad” room package starting at P8,500++ comes with two creative cocktails from Bar Rouge as well as a complimentary bowl of chips and dip. Room package also includes an overnight stay in a Deluxe or Residence Club Deluxe room with breakfast for two. Book online via bit.ly/NWMFathers DayStay. Superb treats With three delectable combos to choose from, Pizza Hut has Superb Treat for six to nine persons at a P1,899. For a more intimate Father’s Day celebration, there’s the Superb Treat for four, at P1,199. If your dad is the biggest pizza lover that you know, then you’ll never go wrong with the Superb Triple Pizza Treat at P1,199. If you order Pizza Hut ahead of time for your Father’s Day celebration, you’ll get six pieces of WingStreet Buffalo wings for free. Call 8911-1111 hotline or visit www.pizzahut.com.ph. Happy Papi Gringo’s Chicken and Ribs rolls out its Father’s Day special with Papi’s Paboritos. Papi’s Paboritos has all-time Gringo like the Cuban Beef Lechon. Gringo’s Cerveza Wings even makes a comeback in this one, fried chicken wings fried to crisp perfection and flavored with the malty goodness of beer. Pair it with starters like the Caesar Salad and the meaty Angus Bolognese Linguine. Cap the meal with its new Classic Tres Leches, a light and soft sponge cake soaked with three kinds of milk. This limited offering is only P2,198 and is available in all Gringo branches. Visit gringo.ph. Ebi awesome [caption id="attachment_144660" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photograph courtesy of tokyo bubble teaBIBIMBAP[/caption] For the entire month of June, Tokyo Bubble Tea offers Ebi Tempura Meal Sets featuring three pieces of Tokyo Bubble Tea’s Ebi Tempura, two Tokyo Big Plates and two large drinks. Specially made set meals for those in Cagayan de Oro are also available. Metro Manila branches are located in Banawe, Greenhills, SM Megamall, and Bonifacio Global City. Each set is P899.Tokyo Bubble Tea branches in Cagayan de Oro are located at Centrio Mall and SM CDO Downtown Premier. Each set is only P650. Visit www.tokyobubbletea.com, Grab Food, and FoodPanda. The post Dad’s Day treats appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Connectivity optimizes all-you-can-eat dining experience
All-you-can-eat restaurants have long been part of the Filipino dining culture, where birthdays, graduations and special occasions are celebrated with families and friends; and there’s no venue more fitting than Vikings, the country’s leading buffet restaurant. Whether it’s Western, Chinese, Japanese, European, or Filipino cuisine, Vikings are sure to satisfy anyone’s craving for a hearty feast. Supporting the company’s growth is PLDT Enterprise, whose role in the food service industry is to provide digital infrastructure, communication, and connectivity services to help businesses like Vikings transform and optimize their operations. “Digital advancements in restaurants have brought about significant changes in the way these businesses operate,” Ding Villarino, vice president and head of Enterprise Revenue Group at PLDT Enterprise said. “It’s always been our mission to help them stay competitive, grow, and succeed in a rapidly changing digital landscape.” A modest beginning Like most successful businesses, Vikings had its fair share of difficulties before becoming a powerhouse in the luxury buffet industry. “We had a challenging start before going into digital transformation. We used to handle incoming calls manually with just two lines in our stores,” explains Jackson Go, managing director at Vikings Group. “Intermittent internet connections slowed down our operations when we had to accommodate approximately 1,500 reservations daily.” Dedicated to meeting the demands of their customers, the Vikings Group relied on PLDT Enterprise to help improve their operations. One of the solutions they implemented is PLDT Enterprise’s iGate Premium, which guarantees reliable and stable connectivity to support their day-to-day operations. “Without connectivity, businesses may risk losing customers, fall behind in the market, or miss out on growth opportunities,” Villarino explains. For our partners, subscribing to our iGate solution provides them a secure connectivity so they may thrive in the digital age.” A growth in partnership PLDT Enterprise has been trusted by the Vikings Group for a decade now, and the long-term collaboration changed the company’s performance for the better. Aside from iGate, Vikings also relied on PLDT Enterprise for its communications support. “We haven’t been experiencing any internet downtime which is essential to the business, so we had to support this further in our operations,” Go said. “Now, as we continue to grow, we also use around 80 Smart Prepaid accounts for a number of our employees which helps us connect and our clients better and easier.” Since the partnership, the Vikings Group has improved its operations by accommodating a higher volume of calls, inquiries, and reservations. From two phone lines in-store, the Vikings Group has now expanded to ten, which includes message-recording features for the security of their transactions. “PLDT Enterprise helps us connect with our clients better, and that allowed us to increase our sales and improve the overall customer experience,” Go added. “We’re grateful that we chose PLDT Enterprise as our partner in our transformation journey, and we look forward to continuing our partnership to drive future innovation in our company.” “The world of food services is constantly changing and evolving; and so are the needs of our partners. We are committed to understanding and accommodating them to help our partners reach greater heights,” Mitch Locsin, first vice president and head of Enterprise and International Business Groups at PLDT and Smart said. The post Connectivity optimizes all-you-can-eat dining experience appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Guess who brought the fun back
It was early March and I just returned from a quick trip to celebrate my wedding anniversary with my hubby. I wasn’t as sad as I usually am when returning to Manila, because I had my dear friend’s birthday party marked in my calendar. At the time, despite the pandemic still looming over our lives, I was pretty convinced that Covid-19 no longer existed. In fact, I wasn’t the only one who thought so. Almost everyone I know was so ready to party like rock stars after taking a long cumbersome break. So last 10 March, Nicole Whisenhunt — our very own "hostess of the mostest," and one of Manila’s most sought-after jewelry designers, gathered all her friends to do just that. She celebrated at Leon Gallery with the simplest goal of making everyone happy, and WOW! She sure did bring the fun back from the good old pandemic-free days when friends would come together to celebrate and enjoy life, worry-free. It was no doubt a night to remember! [caption id="attachment_132227" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photographs Courtesy of Dara Roa | (from left) Sheila Romero, the columnist and Bubbles Bermudez.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_132222" align="aligncenter" width="525"] with the birthday celebrator Nicole Whisenhunt.[/caption] The party invite said eight o’clock but getting ready on time is something I need to re-master. But I sure am glad I arrived at 10 p.m. It was the perfect time to get to the party. The band was playing while everyone was in a state of love and happiness. Entering the party was a high in itself as my date (the hubby — Daniel) and I were showered with hugs, merry greetings, and lingering handshakes from friends we haven’t seen in a while. In the middle of this heartwarming entrance, I saw Nicole barefoot and beaming in bliss! I immediately gave her a hug and greeted her, “Happy Birthday.” What a sight! My first instinct from that experience was to head to the bar, while Daniel (my hubby) went straight to the buffet. I must say, we were such a great tandem as there was no time to waste. We had to catch up! The first person I saw after grabbing our drinks was Loralee Soong, and we never separated since then. Daniel and I naturally gravitated towards the lounge set up on the right side of the band. We settled on that spot with our group of friends who have claimed that space before everyone else had. Daniel enjoyed the food and drinks while he chatted with friends. I, on the other hand, barely even sat. The band made it impossible for me to do so. They played '90s music that we all sang along with and danced to. The dance floor became my home. [caption id="attachment_132226" align="aligncenter" width="525"] with Camille Ongpauco.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_132225" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Vania Romoff and Jerika Ejercito.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_132224" align="aligncenter" width="525"] with Loralee Soong.[/caption] Everyone was filled with euphoric energy that brought about loads of laughter, chatter, singing, dancing, and togetherness. The atmosphere didn’t have an ounce of negativity in it. It was that kind of night. To top it all off, our bellies were spoiled by the delicious dishes of Happy Ongpauco. If only we all had bottomless pits as our tummies, we could’ve eaten more. But there was no feeling guilty over what we ate since we definitely worked on our calories dancing the night away to the tunes of the Yellow Lane band. The party ended, but all the guests talked about it for about a week. We laughed at all the stories that popped up from our conversations with most of them extremely funny. I will always remember this birthday party to be a time when I truly felt like we were finally enjoying ourselves without worry. Just like the good old days. It left me hopeful for the future and more confident that only good things will come our way. The post Guess who brought the fun back appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
GUESS WHO BROUGHT THE FUN BACK
It was early March and I just returned from a quick trip to celebrate my wedding anniversary with my hubby. I wasn’t as sad as I usually am when returning to Manila, because I had my dear friend’s birthday party marked in my calendar. At the time, despite the pandemic still looming over our lives, I was pretty convinced that Covid-19 no longer existed. In fact, I wasn’t the only one who thought so. Almost everyone I know was so ready to party like rockstars after taking a long cumbersome break. So last 10 March, Nicole Whisenhunt — our very own "hostess of the mostest," and one of Manila’s most sought after jewelry designers, gathered all her friends to do just that. She celebrated at Leon Gallery with the simplest goal of making everyone happy, and WOW! She sure did bring the fun back from the good old pandemic-free days when friends would come together to celebrate and enjoy life, worry-free. It was no doubt a night to remember! [caption id="attachment_132227" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photographs Courtesy of Dara Roa | (from left) Sheila Romero, the columnist and Bubbles Bermudez.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_132222" align="aligncenter" width="525"] with the birthday celebrator Nicole Whisenhunt.[/caption] The party invite said eight o’clock but getting ready on time is something I need to re-master. But I sure am glad I arrived at 10 p.m. It was the perfect time to get to the party. The band was playing while everyone was in a state of love and happiness. Entering the party was a high in itself as my date (the hubby — Daniel) and I were showered with hugs, merry greetings and lingering handshakes from friends we haven’t seen in a while. In the middle of this heartwarming entrance, I saw Nicole barefoot and beaming in bliss! I immediately gave her a hug and greeted her, “Happy Birthday.” What a sight! My first instinct from that experience was to head to the bar, while Daniel (my hubby) went straight to the buffet. I must say, we were such a great tandem as there was no time to waste. We had to catch up! The first person I saw after grabbing our drinks was Loralee Soong, and we never separated since then. Daniel and I naturally gravitated towards the lounge set up on the right side of the band. We settled on that spot with our group of friends who have claimed that space before everyone else had. Daniel enjoyed the food and drinks while he chatted with friends. I, on the other hand, barely even sat. The band made it impossible for me to do so. They played '90s music that we all sang along with and danced to. The dance floor became my home. [caption id="attachment_132226" align="aligncenter" width="525"] with Camille Ongpauco.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_132225" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Vania Romoff and Jerika Ejercito.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_132224" align="aligncenter" width="525"] with Loralee Soong.[/caption] Everyone was filled with euphoric energy that brought about loads of laughter, chatter, singing, dancing and togetherness. The atmosphere didn’t have an ounce of negativity in it. It was that kind of night. To top it all off, our bellies were spoiled by the delicious dishes of Happy Ongpauco. If only we all had bottomless pits as our tummies, we could’ve eaten more. But there was no feeling guilty over what we ate since we definitely worked on our calories dancing the night away to the tunes of the Yellow Lane band. The party ended, but all the guests talked about it for about a week. We laughed at all the stories that popped up from our conversations with most of them extremely funny. I will always remember this birthday party to be a time when I truly felt like we were finally enjoying ourselves without worry. Just like the good old days. It left me hopeful for the future and more confident that only good things will come our way. The post GUESS WHO BROUGHT THE FUN BACK appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»