Good place, great company

It was holy week break and this was my chance to catch up with my high school friends therefore I invited Allye and Denise to have coffee with me at a newly-opened cafe which is called CCTB in Pateros which is currently making a buzz. Denise and I met at around 3:00 pm at the patio of our former school. It was pretty much a nostalgia to be there again - to be in the place where I spent 11 years of my schooling. It was definitely my second home where I made so many memories, where I met a lot of wonderful people including my best friends, where I learned and where a big part of me was molded. Pateros is definitely a small town (well now it is already a city but I am not quite used to it) but the people living here are very kind and accommodating. And life here is just simple. It is like a taste of the rural life that is very different from the other busy cities of Metro Manila. The people are very traditional and you can really see it from their houses, their culture, the personalities of the people and the fiestas of their patron saints which they are always preparing for every year. So every time I go back in this place, it is always a happy feeling. This place is really improving because there are already lots of establishments that were not there during my school years here including the coffee shop that I was talking about earlier. Time flies really fast! I already feel so old. *laughs*

Back to my story, Denise and I met Allye in the coffee shop already because we told her to go straight to the place so she could reserve seats for the three of us since the cafe was really small. When we arrived, luckily there were no customers and I was really surprised that there was already a place like this in Pateros. The coffee shop was really cute despite its small size which can only fit I supposed less than 10 people so I really suggest that they must expand soon because it is really a hit in the area since it is the first coffee shop in Pateros. The interior and furniture were colorful and attractive. The colors of the store was perfectly fine that really made the ambiance cool and relaxing.

The prices of the beverages and cakes of CCTB are surprisingly cheap compared to the other coffee shops that I have been to regardless if it is famous or not. We ordered their coffee based frappuccino to beat the heat of the day. I picked their Dark Chocolate Frappe in 20 oz for only P140. Denise chose Mocha Caramel also in 20 oz for P130 and Allye tried their Vanilla Caramel in 20 oz for P120. With those said prices, you already have their tallest size available so it is really within the budget for students like us. They have more beverages offerings from hot to cold that customers can choose from. We also ordered their cakes which are again too affordable because it ranges from P50 - P110. We tried their Mocha Chiffon Cake for P55 and their Chocolate Watilla for P65.

CCTB's Menu:

sizes of their beverages and their cupcakes and cakes

Their service is fast and the presentation of the frappes were enticing. The cakes looked delectable as well. They gave generous servings to their customers which was a thumbs up for me because it is so rarely these days that food service gives big amount of servings. So first things first, we took a snap of what we ordered. The taste of my Dark Chocolate Frappe was just ordinary and to be honest, it actually tasted like Milo so I quite did not like it. I also tried Denise's Mocha Vanilla and there was nothing special and it was very sweet so I also did not like it. But when I tasted Allye's Vanilla Caramel, it was really good! Its sweetness was just balanced and the fact that it was the cheapest among the three frappes that we ordered. So for me, the Vanilla Caramel is the most recommendable if you happen to visit this place. But still, it depends on your taste buds.  On the other hand, the Mocha Chiffon Cake was also an ordinary cake that you could buy anywhere maybe because of its cheap price. Their Chocolate Watilla was my favorite because it was not too sweet and you could really taste its flavor. It was also at a very reasonable price despite it being delicious so this is another must try!  

(L-R) Allye, Me, Denise

My best friend that I rarely see these days but still whenever we meet, it is always one for our friendship book!

                                                                                                                    

We were satisfied with the overall service of CCTB because not only they have affordable menu but also we got to spend a very nice quality time with each other without any limit. We stayed there for about three hours and having the place all to ourselves. It was a place that is perfect if you want to talk and bond with your friends that you miss dearly because the ambience was really rejuvenating. We really enjoyed our stay here and we will definitely go back if we have free time again.

Barkin' Blends Dog Cafe

"Everyone thinks they have the best dog and none of them are wrong." - W.R. Purche

School was really stressful. A lot of deadlines have to be met. Quizzes and exams that have to be studied for. It was a matter of priorities they say, you have to balance this and that. But sometimes the mental and physical exhaustion was already too much that you already have to say to yourself to pause and rest first. I am not complaining I am just saying what I felt for the past weeks and definitely we all deserve a time away from all these pile of work once in a while. 

So last March 5, 2016, Saturday, Joma and I planned to go to Barkin' Blends Dog Cafe at Katipunan, Quezon City. This is a very different cafe because aside from their milk teas, frappes, and their other meal offerings, their main attraction is their adorable dogs that customers can play with. And this what made Barkin' Blends really famous and became the fuss of the town. It was easy to go and to find the place. From UST, Joma and I rode the LRT 2 going to the Katipunan station. From there, we walked for about ten minutes but if you do not like to walk, there are tricycles there which you can ride going to the cafe. The cafe was in front of Ateneo De Manila but on the other side. The closest landmarks to it are Mcdonalds and Shakey's. When you reached it, you must turn left to enter the street between these two establishments and then you can quickly see and identify the building where Barkin Blends is located. The cafe is on the second floor of the said building. 

We arrived there at around 11:45 pm and we were a little bit early because their dog zone opens at 12:00 pm.  So we decided to eat our lunch first our Mcdonald's which is the closest fast food around the area. I was really excited to play with the dogs because I am really a dog lover given that we have five dogs at home. But Joma, on the other hand, was afraid of them but he said that he must face his fear and that made me proud of him. Haha! When we finished eating, we immediately head back to the cafe. Their cafe have two zones which are the human zone and the dog zone. Human zone is where the customers buy and consume their food and beverages and dog zone is where the cafe's fur babies which is the playground of the dogs and the customers. The interior of the human zone is just simple, having pictures of their dogs and the important dog zone rules. Surprisingly, there were almost fifteen people who registered before us. We paid P190 for the entrance fee of the dog zone that is good for two hours and which is already inclusive of a drink which you can choose from the menu. I got the Hazelnut milk tea and Joma had the Raspberry milk tea.

Dog Zone

Barkin' Blends Dog Cafe Menu:

They also have cute cupcakes.

Barkin' Blends fur babies

They told us that our milk tea will just be delivered in the dog zone area so we headed to the place and I was starting to feel so hype and elated when I saw all those dogs. They were really cute!! But first, the staff got our receipt and then he let our things be put in our respective lockers. We were also given slippers because shoes were not allowed inside. It was around 2 pm and almost all the dogs were sleeping so we had a hard time being playful with them plus there were many people because it was a weekend so heads up, it is better to go here during weekdays for you to enjoy more the place and the dogs. I was trying to get hold of a dog who was not sleeping but I think they did not want me and Joma I did not know why so I felt quite sad until there was this little dog who approached me and went on my lap to sleep and that was the moment where I became happy again. I asked Joma to gently rub the puppy and even though he was kinda afraid, I know he loved what he was doing. Minutes later, a small beagle went to Joma's lap and slept there and I could not help it but take pictures of them together. The dogs have different personalities, some were playful especially the big ones, some were definitely sweet, some were really snob, some were always angry, some kept on running, and there was this one who was only sleeping the whole time of our stay there. I kept on taking photos during the whole time because they were really such a cutie and I cannot contain the happiness I was feeling to be surrounded by so many dogs. It was like heaven for a dog lover like me. Joma pretty did a great job of getting along with the dogs even though sometimes I could see the  him being uncomfortable especially when dogs were barking, fighting or when he was being surrounded by dogs. 

The first dog who went to me that made me so ecstatic. Such a baby!

The staff also gave us the opportunity to have pictures taken together with the big dogs and it was really fun watching the dogs strike their poses, but of course, the staff were bribing them with food that's why they were pretty much in a good mood. The dogs were really fun to be with but they usually follow their caretaker wherever they were going which made it harder for us to play with them. Also, there would be times when they would be playing soft music to let their dogs sleep and relax. I understand this because a bunch of people roaming around, touching those dogs and kept on snapping pictures would really stress the dogs especially the small ones. 

Bubbles, the dalmatian, trying to stop the commotion. Haha

Meet Yuki, the maltese!!

Angels sent from above

Despite of the many customers during that day, it was still a one for the books experience for the both of us. I really enjoyed playing with these furballs. They really gave me extreme happiness that took away all my stress. This day was also special because I got to spend it with Joma and I was there with him as he conquered his fear. It was really memorable and I am very sure that he also had fun. I will definitely come back to this place mainly because I did not see their pug and I heard that it was really cute. Too bad it was not there during our visit. But above all, the service was good and the staff were accommodating and were always keeping their customers safe especially children. This is a must experience for all especially those dog lovers out there. Do not miss half of your life! 

I Scream For Ice Cream

Baskin Robbins is a heaven sent ice cream parlor and this has become my newest favorite place for my comfort food. This store provides 31 unique and delectable ice cream flavors that customers will really have a hard time from picking because all look and sound great. According to their website, Baskin Robbins creates and markets innovative, premium ice cream, specialty frozen desserts and beverages, providing quality and value to consumers at nearly 7,300 retail shops in nearly 50 countries. With this, Baskin Robbins has became the top ice cream and frozen dessert franchise in the United States. And the Philippines is very blessed enough that this ice cream store can be finally experience by the Filipinos especially those who love sweets and those who always love to try different and unusual flavors of their ice cream. Baskin Robbins has been really hot in the market since its opening in 2014 in Central Square, Bonifacio High Street. Due to its high demand, it expanded its branch and today there are other seven branches of it located at Glorietta 5, Greenbelt 5, SM North, SM Aura, Trinoma Mall, Ayala Fairview Terraces and SM Southmall. 

Baskin Robbins Glorietta 5 branch (ctto)

My first try of Baskin Robbins was just this year in Glorietta 5 together with my best friend, Louise. After we had our lunch, we were looking for a dessert and the first thing that came to our minds was ice cream. We were walking and we were scouting for a good place to satisfy our sweet tooth and then we saw this cute store with pink and white design, interior and furniture that truly captured our attention. And then we learned that it was the famous Baskin Robbins so our curiosity attacked so we decided to try it. Upon entering, we noticed that their door handler was pink spoons and it was really adorable. Even though the store was small, the ambience of the place was very relaxing and comfortable. The colors of their store was really great for our eyes. It felt like we were being brought back to our childhood. When we were looking at the menu, we realized that it was really expensive for an ice cream. Their lowest price is P85 and it was really small but still we went on on giving it a try. We were surprised of the abundant flavors that they have and we also learned during that time what their logo means, that the big letter "B R" in the middle of "Baskin" and "Robbins" implies that they have 31 variety of flavors. Louise and I were really overwhelmed by these flavors because not only they were many, but their names were very unique that we had never encountered such these from other ice cream parlors. Another good thing about their store is that they have free taste for the flavors so that it can be easier for customers to select what flavors they are going to buy. 

Their variety of sizes to choose from. credits: http://www.thepurpledoll.net

They have also refreshing beverages. credits: http://www.thepurpledoll.net

 Their 31 flavors:

Jamoca	Vanilla	Love Potion #31	Rum Raisin
Caramel Turtle Truffle*	Macadamia Nuts 'N Cream	Chocolate Chip*	Chocolate Chip
Cookies 'N Cream	Cotton Candy	Maui Brownie Madness	Hokey Pokey
Chocolate	Very Berry Strawberry	Chocolate Mousse Royale	Jamoca Almond Fudge
Gold Medal Ribbon	Pistachio Almond	Coconut	Caramel Chocolate Crunch
Pralines 'N Cream	World Class Chocolate	Green Tea	Mint Chocolate Chip
Mango Yogurt	Blackberry Yogurt	Strawberry Yogurt	Rainbow Sherbet
Orange Sherbet	Citrus Twist Ice	Mango Tango	*No Sugar Added

Almost ten minutes of contemplating what to order, Louise and I decided to buy the regular double scooped size worth P199. We picked Cookies and Cream and Maui Brownie Madness flavors. I first tasted the cookies and cream and all I can say is that "heaven", "so yummy" because its taste was so different from cookies and cream flavor that I have tasted. This one is very legit! I could really taste the chunks of cookies it had. Goodness, it was the best! Then next I tried the Maui Brownie and it tasted bittersweet chocolate but its brownies perfected it. Its taste was strong so it just complements the cookies and cream flavor that we paired with it. Their ice cream was very firm and sticky thus it did not melt easily so it was more enjoyable to eat.

My best friend's the ultimate ice cream lover

Truly this place is something that will bring you happiness and satisfaction. Despite its expensive price, I believe it is still worth it because of the nostalgic childhood experience that it will bring you as well their ice cream is above compared to other ice cream stores. It was something that you do not usually taste therefore having it once in a while will not hurt your wallet at all because it is so tasty.

RUB Ribs & BBQ

Kapitolyo is one of the food hub that Joma and I always go to whenever we want to pig-out and dine at something new. It has plenty of restaurants that are not overrated and have affordable prices. And this day, we decided to eat at RUB Ribs & BBQ together with my high school friend, Ella. I already tried RUB in Tomas Morato and I was really in awe because their ribs is really big and very tasty so when I learned that they have a branch in Kapitolyo, I immediately told Joma and Ella that I found the perfect spot for us to dig-in.

credits: beautsantua.wordpress.com

After school, we went straight to Kapitolyo and at around 3 pm, we had reached RUB. There were no people yet during that time since it was not yet peak hours therefore we had the place all to ourselves. The staff welcomed us and made us choose where to seat and of course, we chose the table with a bench. There was nothing grand or special with their interior and furniture. It was a typical middle-priced restaurant and it was not huge as well. But the place was really clean and provides a comfortable atmosphere for us to enjoy our food and the company of one another. 

When the menu was given to us, we took a look of it and carefully looking at each dishes so we could find something that can match our taste buds. Their menu includes their famous barbeque ribs which has different sizes such as family brunch which is the largest, super duo and singles. Also, they have different sides to be paired with the ribs that customers can choose from. They also have other meal entrees that you can try such as beef, fish, pork and pasta meals. 

RUB Rib's Menu:

Credits: Zomato

We ordered their Singles Raki's barbeque ribs which is worth P220. Together with the Ribs are one side and a plain rice. I supposed we all have similar taste buds because we all had ordered bacon and potato salad as our side dish. The waiting time for our order was fast well maybe because we were the only customers during that time but still, it is good that they have quick service. When our ordered had finally arrived, we were really excited and hyped to start eating because their ribs were huge but the rice and salad had small amount of servings. Nevertheless, the ribs looked fantastic , juicy and appetizing. It was still the taste of ribs that my taste buds fell in love with the first time I tried this restaurant in Tomas Morato. Their ribs were tender that made it easy to chew and slice. There was a touch of sweetness on its barbeque flavor that totally got me. I was so happy that my long craving for it had already been satisfied. When I asked Joma and Ella how was it they definitely agreed that it was truly one of the best and affordable ribs around the metro. I saw contentment that they felt about what they were eating on their faces and they kept on saying it was really good. Our bacon and potato salad really matched and blended our ribs as well as the ribs' yummy sauce. We ordered extra rice because we still had lots of ribs and we were really starving during that time because we did not have our lunch. 

So delicious!!

Look at that Ribs!!!

With Joma and Ella

Our stomachs were really stuffed and we felt like we could not even stand up. We were really satisfied with our meals and I can say that it was worth my money. RUB Ribs is perfect for those people who love ribs of course but are on a budget because not only it has affordable prices, it also has satisfying food offerings and experiences.

Livin' La Vida Lola

Ever want to try an authentic and legit churros paired with a chocolate nutella dip? Then La Lola Churreria is definitely the best place that you must go to. 

La Lola Churreria has now became the talk of the town since its last year opening because of its freshly hot and deep fried in 100% olive oil churros that will really make you ask for more after you finish your last piece, just like what I always experience whenever I visit their branches in SM Aura and Serendra, BGC. They also have other six branches around the metro which are located at Powerplant Mall, SM Megamall, SM North, Estancia Mall, UP Town Center and Eastwood Mall which you can check out if you are near these areas. 

Since La Lola is positioning their churros product as a to-go kind of food, customers cannot expect the store to be big therefore it has only very limited seats for their patrons wishing to dine-in. Expect also that lines are always long but despite this, their service is fast and the staff are accommodating. The interior of the place is very artsy and instgrammable. I really love looking at those pictures of churros with witty quotations that are posted on their store. Also, the waiting time until the churros is served is not boring because they let the customers see how the churros is being made from start to finish and it is really enjoying to watch that you cannot anymore wait until you get yours and finally devour it with that nutella dip.

medium Churros Classicos and medium hot chocolate dip (SM Aura branch)

The classic churros (Churros Classicos) is their best-seller which you can either order in medium (6 pcs) - P110, large (12 pcs) - P195 and extra large (18 pcs) - P275. Their hot chocolate dip has a separate price from the churros from medium worth P60, large worth P100, and extra large worth P130. It appears pricey especially because the dip is not yet included in the price of the churros but guaranteed that it is completely worth it because their churros are very big and they give generous amount of chocolate dip. I always order the classic medium churros and medium hot chocolate dip which I sometimes cannot finish all so I believe it is already good for two people. They also have other variety of their classic churros which you can order like their Xuxos, Chocolate Suizo, Chocochurros and many more. Here is La Lola's menu:

La Lola's churros is very crispy and really delicious plus their chocolate dip is the bomb. Truly a perfect combination! Also, their churros really stands out from all the churros I have ever tasted in my whole life. It truly raised the bar of my standards when it comes to this kind of food. With this, it became my favorite place to go to especially when I am stress eating. I strongly recommend La Lola Churreria for you to try because they have the best churros ever!