Mendokoro Ramen

Manila's in the moment gastronomic indulgence is Japanese ramen.  With more than a dozen establishments springing like mushrooms in the city, foodies can't seem to get enough to delight their appetites.  The latest name to open its doors is Mendokoro. Located in the current on the radar scene(Salcedo village where hotspots such as Elbert's steakroom, Reidel, Lulu, Toby's Estate, Wildflour, Gino's, La Creperie and Hooch and the recently opened Pablo hold their playground).

Mendokoro is a modern Japanese ramen place with simple yet well made interiors.  Metal and wood is designed in minimalist aesthetics surrounding an open kitchen right at the center of the restaurant. Designed by Noel Bernardo( who's projects in include Republic in NY, most Elite Concepts HK restos) and his design firm EC Studio, one gets to feel the atmosphere as if they were transported to the land of the rising sun. Beauty is in the art of simplicity wherein the study of design and space becomes ultra chic. A variety of neutral tones unfold a refreshing and cool visual perspective highlighted by shadow play.

As soon as you enter, one is welcomed and easily assisted to the counter to order and get a number(yes due to the number of seats available).  Having a concise menu, one is rest assured that everything in it has been gastronomically curated.  Waiting didn't take long as we came in early before lunch. As soon as were seated, the queue outside was quite long.  This author or the super spicy ramen and ordered extra pork plus egg on the side.  Love the explosion of spice and flavors that weren't overpowering.  The pork was cooked well, the noodles seemed like it was the best in town while the egg was divine. The overall dining experience was fantastic!  Simple, quick an without the fuss and flash. Great ambience and good food is simply the best.  Mendokoro is on dry run until February and is open Monday to Saturdays for lunch 11:30am while dinner starts at 630pm with limited bowls until full operation.  A must-go for everyone but make sure to come early, no reservations and special treatments.

Amazing space.

Art of design.

Light and shade.

Linear perspective.

Lightscape.

Earth calling.

Not so ordinary.

Spice of life.

The best noodles in town.

Love pork.

Waiting game.

Stick it out.

Table setting.

Turning Japanese with Rita Nazareno.

We are located at the GF of V Corporate Center, on Soliman St. Salcedo Village Makati. 

Tel. 215-1751

Wolf and Fox

Timeless tales and fables are moving to modern times.  Their distinct characteristics have imprints in the minds of a child whether fantasy or reality. As they transcend through the passage of their youth, the fondness of memory remains and brings life into various forms in the now. Last July 9, 2014, Wolf and Fox euro Gastropub has sprung right in the heart of Bonifacio Global city in Taguig.  Old world meets new in a refined setting that presents a distinct fascination for fables and literature. The plush interiors reflect a strong British influence from the art, furnitures and design pieces.  The mood inspired lit atmosphere creates a resemblance of London's nightlife thus making this must-go place a member of the British Chamber of Commerce of the Phil(BCCP). What makes this pub a standout among the rest( aside from the endless list of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages) are two menus(Wolf and Fox) that offer a sumptuous gastronomic feast.  The Wolf menu present the traditional cuisine for the sophisticated taste(heavy on meat).  On the other hand, the Fox menu premiums on farm to table(organic/ greens/ salad/ sausages) offerings.  Either way, both showcase a variety of the best of the English foodie palette. One shouldn't miss their addicting desserts that leaves quite an unforgettable impression.  With more than a list of places in the city, Wolf & Fox is a cool and quiet atmosphere to dine and have a drink without the maddening crowd. Great food and ambience worthy to be a habitué for those who love to drink and dine the English way.  

A tale of two cities.

In the game.

Modern Vintage.

Seat of thrones.

Old world charm.

Style elevation.

Light of the old world.

Insect studies.

Literary greats.

Wall of horns.

Style portraits.

Fly.

Comfort Haven.

Fox Menu.

Wolf Menu.

Deconstructed Ceasar salad. Smoked bacon, grilled chicken, crispy Parmesan cheese, croutons, anchovies,  Ceasar dressing with one bundle of romaine lettuce.

French onion soup.

A pound of wings.  Chicken wings coated with bourbon rib sauce with special homemade blue cheese dip.

 

Wolf and Fox double deck. 100% US angus beef patty with onion, celery, smoked bacon and cheddar cheese with white cheese sauce on sesame brioche bun.

Bangers and mash. Homemade Cumberland sausage with topped with red onions on special mashed potato with skin on.

 

Eton Mess. Meringue, raspberry and whipped cream concoction.

Deconstructed Banana Creampie. Fresh banana purée with pistachio and cream of peanut butter with yellow butter sugar cookies.

Global setting.

Underground club.

Perfect time frame.

The author.

For more inquiries check out Wolf and Fox Gastropub:

FB: Wolf and Fox Gastropub 

IG:  wolfandfoxph

White House

Davao, known for its famous "durian" and other sweet delicacies is also known for their cuisine. One famous attraction in the heart of the city is the White House. Located at J. P. Laurel avenue, the European inspired ancestral house of a renowned family has been converted into one of the best fine dining restaurant in Mindanao. Boasting of old world charm appeal, the beautiful interiors gives one a glimpse of life at a certain period in history.  Wood furnishings and crystal decors reflect a fusion of mixed heritage.  Heigh ceiling, huge window panels an wooden flooring are still intact as it is maintained an managed well.  The ambiance brings you back in time as the mood and feel is reminiscent of a glorious era full of parties, gatherings and socials. Run by chefs Cathy Binag and Niño Laus, their  impeccable fusion cuisine offers a wide variety of French, Italian and Japanese dishes to feast on.  The White House has a wine lounge with a great selection of both old and new world delights. The perfect place to relax and enjoy the evening with good food and buzz with friends. The outdoor setting is a spacious botanical area filled colossal trees with contemporary furnitures. The modern garden feel is perfect for events and big gatherings where one can enjoy the fresh air over bubbles and wine.  A must-see for everyone who wants something old but new. Definitely a place one would look forward to come back to in Davao!  

The author with Ish Tan, Florence Alejandre and Jesyl de la Cruz.