Isaribi Japanese Restaurant is now open at Scout Lozano Tomas Morato

If you are a fan of Japanese food like me, think sushi, raw fish and seafood rolled with rice and vegetables into colorful delicious goodness, ramen, maki, yakitori, fresh oysters and takoyaki! Say Oishii!! おいしい

Honestly, I could live eating sushi alone. That's why I am on a haunt for a good Japanese Restaurant along Manila and QC.  It was just timely that I had an invite to visit Isaribi Japanese Restaurant in Tomas Morato for that authentic sushi, sashimi, shrimp, yakiniku, wagyu beef and takoyaki experience at an affordable price.

I had an invite together with selected bloggers to try out Isaribi Japanese Restaurant in Tomas Morato, Manila on May 12.  Isaribi is their second branch, the main restaurant is located in Makati. We got to taste some california maki, sushi, takoyaki, fresh oysters and a raw seafood boat plate full of tuna, salmon, sea urchin, shrimps, wasabi, lemon and soy sauce and the melt-in-your-mouth wagyu beef. 

I got to try my personal favorite Takoyaki at php200 an order. They cooked it right before our eyes.  I love that it has an "inviting" takoyaki authentic aroma to it. Maybe its the spicy mayonnaise or the dashi. As the waitress dropped octopus pieces in the batter in each hole, and sprinkled chopped green onions and ginger all over the pan. I got myself some fresh oysters and grilled it while waiting for takoyaki.

Takoyaki Php200

This is my personal favorite aside from maki and sushi. It has that distinct squid takoyaki taste topped with bonito flakes and a special sauce, paired with spicy mayonnaise. Best served hot.

The name Isaribi is a light or lamp in Japan that fishermen use in fishing. Like a lamp, Isaribi Japanese Restaurant gives light to everyone who seeks authentic Japanese Cuisine.

They outsourced their fresh seafood in Japan. Fresh fish like Salmon, Tuna and shells like oysters. The oysters were all fresh and good. They also serve Japanese liquor.

They also have ramen with miso and shiyo as based soup. But we werent able to taste that one up. They didnt serve ramens or cooked food during the launch. We ate raw seafood the whole time.

Isaribi is open from 11AM to 1AM. They serve unlimited rice during lunch hour. For birthdays, baptism or any intimate occasion. They have a Function Room that can accommodate 20 to 30 persons.

Isaribi Restaurant is located at 113 Belfrant Parking Bldg, Scout Lozano

FOR RESERVATIONS AND INQUIRIES,  CALL 441-5302.

Take a Selfie for Biodiversity and Sustainable Tourism

In commemoration of the International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) on May 22, the Biodiversity Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-BMB), together with the Deutsche Gesellschaftfür Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH will mount “Selfie for Biodiversity and Sustainable Tourism 2017”, a photo competition running from May 3 to May 15.
IDBD is an international event mandated by the United Nations as part of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) of 1993, to create global awareness on biodiversity, its impact on the ecosystem, and why everyone should be involved in its protection.

With theme “Biodiversity and Sustainable Tourism”, the photo contest will revolve around scenes showing efforts to sustain biodiversity and its connection  to sustainable tourism. Photos may highlight efforts in protecting biodiversity, action shots that showcase commitment by tourism groups to protect biodiversity, eco-tours, forest, water and wildlife protection and other topics related to the theme. Subjects must be on Philippine biodiversity and include unique plants and/or animals, whether on land, in fresh water, in the ocean, or special places (wildlife habitats, protected areas, caves, lakes, or rivers).

The contest is open to all photography lovers living in the Philippines, from 13 years old and above. Participants may enter through either Facebook or Instagram and must like the Biodiversity Challenge Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/biodiversitychallenge/ and Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/selfieforbiodiversity to join the contest.

Entries must include a short description with the subject of the photo (as a title); participants’ name, age and the hashtag #selfieforbiodiversity2017; and short narrative (about 100 words) on what biodiversity means to the person, how Filipinos can help conserve the Philippines' rich biodiversity, how the action can inspire others, and a behind-the-scenes story on how the photo was taken.  Photos must be taken over the past year, or from the close of the Selfie for Biodiversity contest event in May 2016. Previous entries are disqualified. Submission of entries is from May 3, 2017 to noon of May 15, 2017 only.

The winner wins a round trip airfare and accommodation for two to any of the protected area or biodiversity area under the jurisdiction of the DENR-BMB or a project site of GIZ PAME Project, except the Islands of Batanes (For a complete list of protected areas and key biodiversity areas, click: https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B27p-PoO0vdPQmlNN3NzOGktX0U).The winner who will be notified via direct message.

For a complete set of contest mechanics and other details about the contest, please visit the Selfie for Biodiversity’s official Facebook or Instagram page or contact 02-426 0239, 02-441 8440. You may also send an email to selfie.biodiversity.take2@gmail.com.

Costa Coffee's Flagship Store Opens in Robinson's Galleria

COSTA COFFEE, the nation's favourite coffee shop and the largest and fastest growing coffee shop chain in the UK opens its 135-sqm flagship store in Robinsons Galleria. This 7th outlet in Robinsons Galleria branch is the first to sport the contemporary Atlas interior, the current look and feel of Costa Coffee shops around the world.

I remember sipping my first Flat White coffee with a slice of Red Velvet cake at Al Khalidiya in UAE. From then on, my coffee fix would be at Al Khalidiya,  its the nearest coffee shop where I stayed for a year. When I came back here in Manila, my flat white coffee craving was satisfied when a Costa Coffee was launched in BGC 2 years ago. I attended the opening event and the rest was history.

Costa Coffee is famous for their flat white coffee, cappuccino,  frostino, (the brand's best selling ice-blended coffee) fresh sandwiches, delicious and creamy cheesecakes and moist red velvet cakes. I was invited to grace the Robinsons Galleria launch last May 11.  It was the biggest branch so far decorated with array of wood and polished materials with background hues of purple and green.

Instead of the usual Union Jack pop art interiors, it has a new lighting design, a simpler and more streamlined array of wood and polished materials, and berry hues of purple and green. These rich tones and other stylish aspects will be splashed in its interior—from the tiles to the furniture, to still allude to London’s rich and iconic culture.

Better Baristas Craft Better Coffee 

At Costa Coffee, baristas prepare coffee with a combination of technical skills and art that takes time and patience to perfect. “The machines just provide support because our baristas are professionally trained. They are experts who prepare coffee with passion and precision. They can tell the perfect espresso (hazelnut colored crema, no bubbles and with red tinges) through sight, taste and smell. These are what make Costa different from others,” explained Justin dela Fuente, Costa Coffee Philippines Barista of the Year 2016.

There are a lot of beverages to choose from. The signature Flat White has extracted shot of Cortissimo, then topped with textured milk resulting in an intense and rich coffee mellowed with velvety smooth texture. Other bestsellers are Capuccino, Latte, Café Caramella, Mocha and ice-blended  Frostinos.

The Stars of Summer: All-new Frostinos, Coolers and Food Items

Costa Coffee invites you to grab new Frostinos and Coolers with  flavors that will give your days that much-need boost.

The Caramel Coffee Crunch Frostino (Primo-P185; Medio-P200; Massimo-P205) is a flavor-wonderland where caramel melds seamlessly with a shot of Mocha Italia espresso, finished with cookie crumbs.

Indulgent is the word to describe Tiramisu Frostino (Primo-P185; Medio-P200; Massimo-P215). Delight in its rich smoothness, infused with a perfect espresso shot of Mocha Italia blend and topped with cocoa dusting.

Coffee Cream Frostino (Primo-P145; Medio-P155; Massimo-P165) is an instant classic.  There is the Mocha Italia’s wonderful balance of berry fruitiness and caramel-hazelnut blended with cream that presents a fine and luxurious taste.

Costa Coffee’s Coolers are meant to refresh and invigorate you amidst the sweltering heat.  They’re a harmonious blend of fruits and the aroma of flowers. Try Watermelon Rose (Primo-P155; Medio-P170; Massimo-P185);  Lychee Blossom (Primo P175; Medio P190; Massimo P205) and  Hibiscus Strawberry Cooler (Primo P175; Medio P190; Massimo P205) 

Along with these drinks are new savory offerings.

Bacon Croissant (P100)

Order the Bacon Croissant (P100) with either smoked or honey-cured bacon and enjoy with Caramel Coffee Crunch Frostino.

Ham and Egg Croissant (P150)

Another choice is Ham and Egg Croissant (P150). You’d love this sandwich with Tiramisu Frostino.

Pork Curry Turnover (P140)

The Pork Curry Turnover (P140) goes well with Coffee Cream Frostino.

Follow “Costa Coffee Ph” on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more updates.

LIVE HEALTHY, STAY HAPPY WITH TEFAL

TEFAL, a world leader in small domestic appliances, brings together family as well as its passion for healthy living in its newest campaign, “Live Healthy, Stay Happy.” As a partner of every cook, foodie and homemaker, TEFAL sees the importance of equipping the Filipinos with innovative home and kitchen appliances which give them more reasons to embrace their daily tasks and perform them with ease.

A special launch called “Experience Tefal” was held last May 12, 2017 at Abenson , Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. TEFAL, along with its brand ambassador for domestic appliances and TV’s Chef Next Door Chef Jonas Ng, kicked off the “Live Healthy, Stay Happy” campaign by introducing its newest cookbook for happy and healthy eating - “TEFAL: Bringing Joy in Cooking.”

Tefal brand ambassador, Chef Jonas Ng

Through his recipes and with the help of TEFAL appliances, Chef Jonas inspires all to choose healthier lifestyle by creating flavorful and nutritious dishes. “Even for pros, cooking at home can be a chore since we usually face the same limitations in our home kitchens such as lack of space, time and budget. I wanted to put together simple and quick recipes that are made for busy mothers and professionals who would rather spend their time enjoying, than preparing food. 

With the unique leverage that TEFAL appliances offer, you’re assured that you’ll be able to whip up amazing meals in half the time. Thus, TEFAL gives its users more time to spend with the family and other important things,” shares Chef Jonas.

The event was also graced by TEFAL’s Corporate Chef, Maria Sonia Astudillo. A proponent of healthy eating, she is the author behind TEFAL’s 2017 Summer Recipe book, Fruity Summer Fest – a collection of fruit smoothies, juices, skewers and dips recipes. “Just like in life, there are super, ordinary and awful fruit combinations. Some fruits click so well that aside from tasting good, they become easier to digest and friendlier to the stomach than others”, she emphasizes.

Understanding the limitations of the regular kitchen and the constraints that most individuals encounter on a daily basis, TEFAL has developed appliances that are innovative, efficient, and practical.  From Electrical Cooking, Food & Drink Preparation, to Linen Care and Home Care, TEFAL’s innovations will be redefining the Filipino home experience and bringing it to a new level.

Cook your rice to perfection with the TEFAL Microcomputer Rice Cooker. TEFAL’s innovative 4-layer ceramic coated pot has a unique diamond-shaped pattern that contributes to even heat diffusion and better cooking, resulting in tasty and fluffy rice. It is very durable, resistant to scratches, and cleans very easily (no need to soak!). Enjoy its versatility with 10 automatic cooking programs like a fun Cake function to make meal times more enjoyable.

For health-conscious individuals, TEFAL offers various Blenders and Juicers. TEFAL Blenders’ innovative Tripl’Ax Technology maximizes the action of 6 blades with three combined actions -- Cyclone Booster, Extreme Mixing and Chunks Killer – to make a perfectly smooth blend. TEFAL’s Infiny Press Slow Juicer on the other hand, offers 35% more juice, 30% more Vitamin C and 75% more antioxidants than using traditional juice extractors to provide naturally genuine vitamin-packed and nutrient-filled juices.

When you can’t get enough of your deep-fried picks such as French fries, sausages or fried chicken, TEFAL Fry Delight serves up the same fried taste and texture that you love, but with less oil. This low-fat fryer with Air Pulse Technology keeps food crisp on the outside and cooked tender on the inside, all while making usage and post-cooking cleanup fast and easy.

Since smartly-pressed, crease-free clothes always create a good impression, TEFAL Irons and Garment Steamers are home essentials.  TEFAL innovations like its Durilium Soleplate Technology makes ironing less of a chore due to its smooth glide, so clothes can be ironed in half the time compared to other irons without it.

As a proud domestic appliance brand, TEFAL places emphasis on leading a healthy and happy lifestyle, not just with cooking, but in your everyday home tasks. Whether you’re independently single, part of a young, growing family or have an extended brood, TEFAL offers ingenious solutions to help lead a better and more balanced life. Discover confidence, convenience and a pleasurable life experience with TEFAL. Together, let us live healthy, stay happy.

To help kick off a healthier, happier lifestyle at home, all TEFAL small domestic electrical appliances will be 20% off, from May 10-31, 2017. TEFAL Small Domestic Appliances are exclusively distributed by Collins International Trading Corporation in the Philippines. For more information about TEFAL promos and the “Live Healthy, Stay Happy” campaign, visit its Facebook page: www.facebook.com/tefalappliancephilippines. 

Give Mom the Healthy and Delicious Hurom Squeeze This Mother’s Day

Moms have always made sure that their kids are in the pink of health. They have undertaken countless ways, both stealthy and overt, to make sure you eat your vegetables, take your vitamins and consume good nutritive food you may not have always been so inclined to eat. Now that you’re older, you owe your good health to your mother. It’s time to give that gift of health back to her.

We are all aware that many health campaigns all over the world advice the intake of at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables for better health.  According to a 13-year study by University College London, a daily average of more than seven plates of fruits and vegetable drastically reduces the risk of all-cause mortality.

Fruits and vegetables are not only abundant in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, but in phytochemicals and enzymes as well. These substances have powerful antioxidant effects such as anti-aging, skin care, promoting immunity, among many others.

The amount of enzymes in our bodies gradually decreases with age and they do not replace themselves. So, why is this important? Enzymes are essential to creating energy in your body. If you lack enzymes, it is harder for your body to convert food into energy, making you more easily fatigued. They must be supplemented by food, and fruits and vegetables contain the most enzymes.

Consuming five to seven plates of fruits and vegetables is easier than done.  An alternative to supplement your required daily intake of fruit and vegetables is to drink it. These liquid vitamins taste better, too:  a refreshing glass of vitamins, minerals and enzymes? No wonder juicing is now at an all time high, a trend that is set to become a fixture in daily life. The popularity of juicing has resulted in a proliferation of juicers, so how do you pick the one that best suits your needs, or better yet, one that keeps your health at the forefront of their research.

Hurom has spent over 40 years perfecting juice. Their patented Slow Squeeze Technology uses an auger to squeeze out juice (similar to how you would hand-squeeze an orange) instead of shredding fruits and vegetables with high-speed blades like other juicers and blenders. This motion minimizes damage to ingredients, keeping natural taste and nutrition intact.  In microscopic close ups of Hurom-made tomato juice, the juice retains its natural color and cellular structure.

Hurom juicers are also built to last since maximum juicing health ideally means a daily diet of fresh juices. Materials like ultem, tritan, and stainless steel, some of which are used to build spaceships, make up your Hurom juicer. Hurom results in a higher yield of healthy unprocessed juice that will taste great for 72 hours.

Of course you don’t want the same juice every day, so whether you like sweet and sour fruits or leafy greens or nut milk, a Hurom juicer lets you pick from a wide array of fruits & vegetables, nuts and seeds, and herbs & spices. Hurom is more than just a juicer. Depending on the model, there are many preparations you can do with Hurom such as almond milk and even fresh noodles. Certain Hurom models even have an attachment where you can make healthy pure fruit sherbets and ice cream.

A Hurom juicer is also easy to use & clean. This is something important to the makers because they know if it’s easy to assemble and clean, consumers will use it more. Hurom juicers are 100% BPA free and come without any blades or sharp parts, making it safe for children to use. The narrow hoppers are designed so that even the smallest hands can’t fit inside.

Hurom ambassador Lee Young Ae, better known as Dae Jang Geum, her character in “Jewel in the Palace” is a health conscious mom, “I make fruit and veggie juice with Hurom for myself and my family. My kids don’t like fruits and vegetables,” she admits, which is a common problem all parents share. “But if I make fruit and veggie juice with Hurom, they love it. This is my secret to make them to eat fruit and veggies.” In a commercial that aired on Korean TV, Young Ae is shown juicing apples and carrots on a Hurom juicer for her son, and he drinks it up happily, none the wiser that it’s packed with nutrition. In other ads she is seen holding a juicing party with friends and another one, where she pours her fresh juice in bottles and takes them to work.  “I make different juices every day,” she says referring to Hurom recipe book. “But my mom loves to make soy noodle with the Hurom slow juicer.” As you can see, Hurom is for all generations of women. 

 The result is over a million in more than 70 countries make juice with a Hurom juicer, making Hurom the global leader. Wouldn’t you want to give your mom the best?

2016 New Hurom H-AA Series Slow Juicers are available in Abenson, Anson Link, Duty Free, Gourdo’s, Rustan’s, Landmark, Royal Duty Free, S&R, SM Appliance, SM Home, True Value, and Western Appliances.

To learn more about Hurom Slow Juicers, visit the official website at www.hurom.com and follow us on our social media accounts: (Facebook) http://www.facebook.com/huromphofficial, and (Twitter & Instagram) @HuromPHofficial. You may contact directly to hotlines (+632) 926-8038 / (+632) 926-8009.

Clever Nuts Recipe by Hurom
Ingredients:

• 1 cup coconut water
• Handful of whole almonds
• Half a banana

Instructions:
1. Soak almonds in water.
2. Peel banana and slice in appropriate sizes.
3. Pour in coconut water and add almonds, one spoonful at a time.
4. Add banana to juicer.
5. Enjoy! Pour over ice, if desired.