30 November 2014

Lunch with Ms. Earth 2014 candidates at Yoshinoya



Last Friday, I had the opportunity to have lunch with some of the Ms. Earth 2014 candidates at Yoshinoya Philippines' SM North branch. I was definitely excited for the event because it is nice to be surrounded with beautiful ladies. Moreover, it's been a while since I had my favorite Gyudon beef bowl which is Yoshinoya's specialty. 

Lunch with Ms. Earth 2014 candidates at Yoshinoya
Lunch with Ms. Earth 2014 candidates at Yoshinoya

Even though these ladies were under a tight schedule for rehearsals and other preparations for the Ms. Earth 2014 pageant night, they were able to squeeze in this lunch event so that everyone could meet them personally. The candidates that were present during the event were all very approachable despite the stress that they might have experienced. 

28 November 2014

Samsung introduces new line of Washing Machines



Laundry has always been a tedious task for everyone, especially for one who has a large family. It does not consist of a simple procedure but one with numerous steps - from sorting the clothes to carefully hand washing them to rinsing and drying them. Nevertheless, it can be considered a relief that there are now products in the market that could make such task easier. Moreover, these new products differ to correspond to everyone's needs.

Samsung introduces new line of Washing Machines

One’s choice of a washing machine could mean many things for the family. While basic washing machines can perform expected cleaning functions, new technological innovations now allow for more effective, efficient, flexible and convenient laundry cleaning options. For instance, choosing the right washing machine could mean lower electricity and water bills, as well as less worn clothes. For Filipino mothers, choosing a washing machine that meets her household’s unique needs could mean less time spent doing the laundry, which translates into more bonding time with the family on weekends.

Samsung introduces new line of Washing Machines

Recognizing that modern homes have varied cleaning needs and would benefit from smart washing solutions, Samsung has introduced an array of washing machines that can cater to every household’s laundry requirement, as well as lessen the hassle of multitasking moms. Luckily, we were the first ones to have a look at these new line of washing machines during an event held at Shangrila Cineplex Premiere Theater.

Samsung Fully Automatic Front Load Washer

Samsung Fully Automatic WW5000 Front Load Washer
Samsung Fully Automatic WW5000 Front Load Washer

The Samsung Fully Automatic WW5000 Front Load Washer offers powerful cleaning capabilities while still remaining gentle on clothes. The Samsung Fully Automatic WW5000 Front Load Washer features two innovative technologies that provide the best-in-class laundry experience – EcoBubble Technology and Stain Away Program.

Samsung EcoBubble Technology allows for the even distribution of detergent and deeply penetrates the fabric faster than highly concentrated liquid detergent. This allows clothes to be washed in cold water, significantly reducing energy consumption. By completely dissolving the detergent, it allows for easier rinsing and minimizes detergent residue and stains. EcoBubble promises no loss of wash performance and allows laundry to be done faster and more efficiently, giving mom extra time to do other chores or spend time for herself.

Samsung Fully Automatic WW5000 Front Load Washer

Stain Away, on the other hand, is a pre-programmed cycle with settings that help remove common household stains that moms usually have a difficult time cleaning, such as cocoa, blood, tea, wine, coffee, make-up and grass. Working together with EcoBubble Technology, stains can be cleaned effectively in one simple cycle with the special bubble soaking stage. Frothy bubbles penetrate deep into the fabric fibers to loosen dirt and stains.


Samsung Fully Automatic Top Load Washer


Samsung Fully Automatic Top Load WA16F759
Samsung Fully Automatic Top Load WA16F759

Among the top load washers Samsung carries is the Samsung Fully Automatic Top Load WA16F759, which features Wobble technology. Wobble technology protects delicate fabrics from friction damage without compromising washing performance. The Wobble pulastor’s unique structure generates a dynamic, multi-directional washing flow to prevent tangles, twists and knots while thoroughly cleaning clothes. The WA16F759’s Digital Inverter technology ensures durability and saves on energy as well. It’s large capacity 16kg. also allows moms to save laundry time.

Samsung Fully Automatic Top Load WA16F759
Samsung Fully Automatic Top Load WA16F759

For those who pre-wash heavily soiled clothes, the Samsung Fully Automatic Top Load WA4000HH is a smart choice. This all-in-one washing machine features practical innovations such as the ActivDualWash, on top of Wobble Technology, that allows laundry to be done with less time, efforts and worry.

The ActivDualWash feature equips the machine with a wash sink with a built-in side water jet. The wash sink provides a convenient and dedicated space to hand-wash delicate items and pre-wash heavily soiled clothes before regular wash. The built-in side water can be started and stopped with a simple press of a button for maximum convenience.

Samsung Fully Automatic Top Load WA4000HH
Samsung Fully Automatic Top Load WA4000HH

Since the household budget is a universal concern among Filipinos, most of Samsung’s Fully Automatic Washing Machines is equipped with Digital Inverter Technology. The Digital Inverter Motor has minimal moving parts, making it breakdown resistant. Magnet utilization makes it more efficient, increasing energy saving and guaranteeing durability. An 11-year warranty also ensures long-lasting washing machines with fewer chances of malfunctions.

Samsung Fully Automatic Top Load WA4000HH
Samsung Fully Automatic Top Load WA4000HH

Personally, the Samsung Fully Automatic WW5000 Front Load Washer is my favorite among the three presented. It does not only boast of great features such as the Ecobubble Technology and Stain Away feature, but it also has a chic design. It is very compact and perfect for an apartment or condominium unit. 

These features on these smart washing machines will definitely benefit all the mothers who want to have the cleanest clothes for their families, minus the hassles and added expenses. So for all laundry needs, Samsung has got it all covered. Samsung Digital Appliances, Your partner in building a happier home.

XO, Mish


24 November 2014

Sands at SM by the BAY, Manila’s Newest Outdoor Sports and Event Destination, Now Open



SM by the BAY, envisioned to be Manila’s premiere destination for leisure and lifestyle activities, proudly announces the opening of its latest addition to its roster of popular outdoor-themed entertainment and leisure facilities.  

Sands at SM by the BAY is the only beach-themed, multi-purpose, outdoor sand court in the city. With an impressive and spacious court area measuring 28x18 meters, Sands is an ideal facility for outdoor sports such as beach volleyball, beach tennis, and sepak takraw. Sands in also the perfect venue for product launches and beach-themed parties without the hassle of travelling outside the city. 


Owing to the emerging popularity of volleyball and beach volleyball in the country, SM by the BAY invited leading local sports celebrities to grace the opening of Sands. At the launch were former DLSU Lady Spikers and now professional volleyball league players Melissa Gohing, Michelle Datuin, Petron Beach Volleyball Champion, Aileen Abuel , and former Shakey’s V-League MVP and now Super Liga pro player Rachel Ann Daquis. Joining this roster of local personalities were trade partners and heads of sports and lifestyle brands, as well as friends from the media. To complete the beach vibe, the event was capped off by vibrant performances by fire dancers and percussionists set against the Manila Bay sunset. The event was made possible with the support of Roxy, Quicksilver, Mikasa, The Lab Gastropub, Oceana and The Roadhouse Manila Bay. 


Open for private bookings, corporate and sport-related functions, Sands is conveniently located at the north area of SM by the BAY grounds.  While it has always been a must-visit outdoor entertainment and amusement destination for the entire family, with the addition of Sands, SM by the BAY now promises a more enjoyable experience for people with active lifestyles. 

For inquiries and reservations please contact SM by the BAY at thesmbythebay@gmail.com . Like and follow us at Facebook at facebook.com/smbythebay/ Twitter and Instagram: @smbythebay.


23 November 2014

You're Not You: Hilary Swank stars in movie about ALS



The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge became popular during the past months. Everyone, from celebrities to ordinary citizens, took part in the challenge to raise awareness and funds for the research of ALS. From what I understood based on the challenge, ALS or Lou Gehrig's Disease is a one that results to the numbing of the body which is somewhat similar to having a bucket full of ice water poured over one's self. However, ALS is definitely a disease that needs a deeper and fuller understanding.

You're Not You: Hilary Swank stars in movie about ALS

ALS or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is a disease that affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. As with its most famous patient, American baseball player Lou Gehrig, people who are diagnosed with this condition degenerate as movement are slowly affected until the later stages that result in total paralysis. People who were otherwise healthy in their younger years start to lose control over the use of their muscles, and soon are unable to speak, walk, and feed themselves.

You're Not You: Hilary Swank stars in movie about ALS

In the movie You’re Not You, Oscar Award winner Hillary Swank takes on the role of an ALS patient named Kate, a suave, successful classical pianist. She and her husband Evan (Josh Duhamel) are crushed when they find out about her condition, and he goes around looking for someone to take care of Kate as the condition progresses. 

You're Not You: Hilary Swank stars in movie about ALS

Bec(Emily Rossum) is a brash college student and would-be singer who can barely keep her own life together. At first, Evan is hesitant to get her, but Kate sees something special in the younger girl. When Bec takes on the job, they go on adventures of self-discovery and help each other find their own strengths through their weaknesses. 

You're Not You: Hilary Swank stars in movie about ALS

You're Not You explores how two strangers can bring out the best in each other even in the midst of trials and tribulations.  This movie also gives face to the much-talked about ALS and will help people understand the condition better. 

Personally, this movie gave me a better and deeper understanding of the ALS - much deeper than what the Ice Bucket Challenges have offered. I think that such understanding is very important so that there will be acceptance of the disease and its consequences.

You're Not You: Hilary Swank stars in movie about ALS
Thank you so much Octoarts Films and Love and Light Productions for having me during the VIP Screening! :)

The movie is distributed and released in the Philippines by Octoarts Films International and will be shown in theaters starting November 26, 2014.

XO, Mish

21 November 2014

CBTL Giving Journal 2015 + Giveaway



It's actually my first time to own a CBTL Giving Journal having used BDJ planner for years now. I actually didn't know that CBTL produces journals as well until last year. :| Luckily, CBTL decided to open a branch in Fairview and I was finally introduced to their products. Anyway, I was given by The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf my very own Giving Journal 2015 which I will be featuring in this blog post. Thank you! :)


The journal comes in vibrant and fun colors such as brown, green, orange, and purple symbolizing the different drinks CBTL has to offer. It also comes with a sleeve which is perfect especially if you are getting a planner as a gift.

15 November 2014

Caliburger launches the Chef's Choice - Cali Smokehouse Burger



Caliburger has indeed gone far here in the Philippines. Opening its doors last February 2014, CaliBurger Philippines has been serving “Always Fresh,” mouth-watering, premium burgers that are made only from the purest and freshest ingredients, all hand-selected by experienced chefs. CaliBurger wants their guests to taste the perfectly toasted bun, that juicy cooked to order beef patty, their very own signature Wild Sauce, those crisp hand sliced veggies - each of these components work in symphony with the rest to tickle the taste buds and satisfy that burger craving.


Just this year, Caliburger has launched various new products such as the BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger, Onion Rings, and Cali Sweet Wings which I truly loved. And last week, they launched yet again another new product that would surely be the favorite among many - the Chef's Choice.


This extremely special burger called the Chef’s Choice – SMOKEHOUSE Burger is crafted by one of the country’s most respected chefs, Chef Robert Pengson.


“I wanted to create a unique burger that completely whets your appetite, something fragrant, and that goes well with an ice cold beer,” explains Chef Rob. He further shared that this burger that he conceptualized and created is one that he would definitely have for himself. He even dubbed it as the Rolls Royce of burgers.


The Cali Smokehouse Burger is composed of 100% pure beef patty enveloped in delicious smokey bacon and crispy spiced onion rings topped with a unique maple-mustard sauce. This beauty will definitely take you on a wild ride through the All-American countryside.

This burger is definitely heavenly. To begin with, I love bacon cheeseburgers. However, this one has definitely more to offer than a regular bacon cheeseburger. It has a smokey and distinct flavor that I surely loved. And though loaded with different ingredients, this burger seems like an awesome harmony of flavors. Moreover, eating this in itself is an experience. You get to see, smell, and taste the unique character this Smokehouse Burger have.


The CaliBurger Chef’s Choice – SMOKEHOUSE Burger will be a limited edition offering in both branches from November 17, 2014 to December 17, 2014 only. Don't miss the chance to try out this awesome creation!

Visit their branches:
Makati - 4F Century City Mall, Kalayaan Ave., Makati
Timog - 118 Timog Ave., Brgy. Sacred Heart, Quezon City (in front of GMA Network)

Visit and follow their sites:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/CaliburgerPH
Twitter - https://twitter.com/caliburgerph
Instagram - http://instagram.com/caliburgerph

XO, Mish


10 November 2014

Revlon Colorsilk Medium Ash Brown (40) Review



Hello guys! Here's another DIY hair color review I'd like to share with you. I've been dying to post this for months now (lol) but I just didn't have the time to come up with a decent blog post. Anyway, I'll be reviewing Revlon Colorsilk's Medium Ash Brown shade in this blog post. This one's a favorite among me and my sisters cause we find it as the easiest shade to wear. My mom even uses this one when she needed to touch up her roots. By the way, I'll be using it over Revlon Colorsilk Luminista in Medium Blonde which I have previously reviewed here.

Revlon Colorsilk Medium Ash Brown (40) Review

What it claims:

A rich, natural brown with no brassiness, 100% gray coverage

Revlon Colorsilk Medium Ash Brown (40) Review
Revlon Colorsilk Medium Ash Brown (40) Review

As usual, the box contains an ammonia-free colorant, cream color developer, after-color conditioner, instructions and plastic gloves.

BEFORE:

Revlon Colorsilk Medium Ash Brown (40) Review
Revlon Colorsilk Medium Ash Brown (40) Review

Revlon's hair coloring products are so easy to use. Just mix the colorant and developer and you're good to go! It is actually the application that is tricky. As I was aiming to lighten my roots a bit and darken the rest of my hair, I started with the roots first cause I think it takes more time to lighten the hair than to darken it. If you're coloring your hair for the first time though, do not start with your roots because they tend to lighten faster than the rest of your hair. Leave at least one or two inches of your hair from the roots and apply the dye from there to the ends. Then, when the rest of your hair have lighten a bit (say, in 10 to 20 minutes), apply the rest of the dye to the roots.

DURING:

Revlon Colorsilk Medium Ash Brown (40) Review

As usual, I left the dye for at least 1 hour before rinsing it off. I made sure that it was able to darken the ends of my hair since it has become brassy already. This photo above, by the way, was taken when I was about to rinse already my hair.

AFTER:

Revlon Colorsilk Medium Ash Brown (40) Review
Revlon Colorsilk Medium Ash Brown (40) Review

The Good:
  • It evened out my hair color pretty well. I ended up with a nice brown shade. (If you're looking though for a hair coloring product to drastically lighten your hair color, this product is not really the one for that)
  • It was able to cover the brassiness of my hair with its ash tones.
  • Easy and convenient to use!
  • Ammonia-free
  • One box is just enough for my (then) medium length hair.
  • My hair still looks and feels healthy right after coloring. Thanks to their amazing after-color conditioner!
  • Super affordable. Got this one for more or less P395 at Watsons and it comes with a free tweezer.
The Not-So-Good:
  • I noticed brassiness of my hair after several months. Nevertheless, it would be time to retouch my roots by then.
  • It tends to lighten after some time which is not good in my case because it makes my hair color look uneven (with brighter ends than roots).
  • I wish it came with a disposable cape so that I'll stop staining more clothes when coloring my hair.
Revlon Colorsilk Medium Ash Brown (40) Review
Day after (using iPad camera)
Revlon Colorsilk Medium Ash Brown (40) Review
One week after (using iPhone camera)
Revlon Colorsilk Medium Ash Brown (40) Review
Two months after (artificial lighting)

So here's how my hair looked like right after, one week after, and two months after coloring. Sorry if I used different cameras. I cannot seem to find decent photos that would highlight my hair color from just one camera. Anyway, I would recommend this shade if you are about to dye your hair for the first time (so you won't get shocked with bright hair or disappointed with dark hair). It gives off the right amount of brown without the brassiness as its name suggests. In the coming weeks, I'll be posting another Revlon hair color review. Please do watch out for that. :)

XO, Mish


09 November 2014

Chowking welcomes Kris Aquino as newest franchisee



Endorsements have always been a huge part of Kris Aquino's career. We've all known her as one of the most popular and sought after endorser of numerous brands and products here in the Philippines, one of which is Chowking. With various television commercials and billboards nationwide for Chowking, it is undeniable that it is one of the brands that Kris truly trusts. As a brand that seemed to harmonize well with Kris’ taste and beliefs, she decided to take her partnership with it to a whole new level.

Chowking welcomes Kris Aquino as newest franchisee

As a part of this huge celebration of success and awaited announcement, bloggers and members of the press were treated to various attractions. Among the attractions that were prepared for us were the lucky tree, fortune telling, charms making, and Chinese calligraphy. Likewise, we were offered the newest addition to Chowking's menu - the super cute Panda and Piggy pao. 

Chowking welcomes Kris Aquino as newest franchisee
Chowking welcomes Kris Aquino as newest franchisee
My fave part! Charms making based on our Chinese zodiac sign. :D
Chowking welcomes Kris Aquino as newest franchisee

As I have previously said, this partnership is no longer limited to a simple endorsement which commenced when Kris endorsed some of the fast food’s Chinese favorites earlier this year, Chinese-Style Fried Chicken and Chunky Asado Siopao. . Today, the Philippines’ Queen of All Media will open her first Chowking franchise this November 2014, located at Ali Mall in Cubao, Quezon City.

Chowking welcomes Kris Aquino as newest franchisee
During this Royal Banquet, everyone was treated to a (what I called) make-your-own-lauriat. Their bestsellers - Chinese-Style Fried Chicken, Siomai, Pansit Platter, Buchi - just go well with one another.
Chowking welcomes Kris Aquino as newest franchisee

The hardworking career mom kept on telling everyone why she decided to become Chowking's franchisee. “I feel that if you’re going to endorse a brand, it should be something that’s both aspirational and reachable,” says Kris. “But it’s different if it’s about being a franchisee. One should invest on something they really trust and love.

“That’s what I felt when I chose to partner with Chowking. Not only do I really love their food, it’s a brand I’ve found that’s comforting and one I trust that can bring me more success.” And this success, she aspires not only for herself but also for her children who are her greatest inspiration.

Chowking welcomes Kris Aquino as newest franchisee

Ferns Yu, President of Chowking, was likewise very excited with this new partnership. “2014 has been yet another positive year for Chowking. We are aggressively renovating and opening new stores and this move with Kris is one of the best highlights of this endeavor,” says Yu. “It’s a rare opportunity to have your endorser as a franchisee. Perhaps, there’s really harmony between Kris and the brand.”

Yu adds that they knew how Kris favors home-cooked meals, as she mentioned it during the interviews they had during the shoots for the ads. “But it’s really heartwarming to know that she wouldn’t mind having a Chowking take-out to share with her family during the days that it’s really impossible for her to cook. 

“That’s why this partnership says a lot about Chowking—it complements her taste and her appreciation towards good food; and given that we are a brand that continues to grow because of hard work, we find her as the best embodiment of our success.” 

Chowking welcomes Kris Aquino as newest franchisee

Kris recounts how making stops at Chowking during long road trips for KrisTV tapings has been a ritual for her crew. “I really love their menu! Believe me, I’ve had countless takes in the shoots and the food is just irresistibly good,” she shares. She furthermore shared that the Chinese Style Fried Chicken has become her favorite that she took 72 bites from the it without having to spit any during her commercial shooting. 

Chowking welcomes Kris Aquino as newest franchisee

Indeed, when you see a celebrity shopping from the store of the brand he or she endorses, you could probably say that it’s an expected commendation. But when that endorser becomes a franchisee, it becomes a totally different story—a bond forged in trust and harmony.

Chowking welcomes Kris Aquino as newest franchisee

At present, Chowking currently boasts of over 400 branches in the Philippines. Some of the leading delicious Chinese favorites in their roster are the Chinese-Style Fried Chicken, Chunky Asado Siopao, Pork Chao Fan, and the Meaty Wanton Mami.

Visit their social media accounts here:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/chowkingph
Twitter - https://twitter.com/chowking_ph
Instagram - http://instagram.com/chowkingph

XO, Mish


02 November 2014

Discover the #BeautifulScience behind World’s No. 1 Conditioner Brand, Pantene



I am not very particular with salon-offered hair care such as hot oil, etc. since I was naturally born with fine, straight hair. However, I still make sure that my hair is maintained well by using conditioner every single day, especially now that I regularly color my hair. It was actually very late when I have discovered Pantene, probably when I was already in college. Nevertheless, it is never too late to start on a healthy hair care routine. With continuous use, your hair can definitely improve. Pantene tells us the science behind it in their latest campaign.


For over 60 years, Pantene has been committed to give women healthy, beautiful hair that empowers them to shine. Pantene’s Pro-V science and continuous innovation enables Pantene to deliver this promise. Its new Beautiful Science campaign takes innovation further by daring to go without camera tricks, without retouching and by letting the science behind its products shine.

The Beautiful Science campaign endeavours to further strengthen Filipinas’ trust in Pantene. The first video in the series features the Static Generator to prove the importance of intensive conditioning. Without camera tricks or retouching, Pantene demonstrates that hair treated with Pantene Daily Intensive Conditioner stays down, resisting static electricity and staying virtually frizz-free, while more hair not treated with Pantene stands up.

Pantene not only gives women frizz-free, beautiful hair, but it also offers the right conditioner for every woman’s needs. A conditioner does so much more than making your hair soft and scented. It is an important step to keep hair protected from damage. Filipinas should choose their conditioners based on their hair type, hair condition and lifestyle:


Pantene Color and Perm Daily Intensive Conditioner helps keep colors vibrant and curls intact. Chemical treatments like coloring and perming make hair very damaged, and the Pantene Color and Perm system helps restore the health of hair. Its unique conditioning actives prevent water from entering and exiting hair cuticles so that color pigments don’t run and curls don’t loosen.


Pantene Aqua Pure Daily Intensive Conditioner gives hair the nourishment it needs without the excess weight, making it perfect for women with fine hair. The Pantene Aqua Pure system’s Clean Rinse Technology delivers conditioning but washes clean and fast. With no added silicone, dye or paraben, it leaves hair with virtually zero weight for a feeling of lightness.


Pantene Total Damage Care Daily Intensive Conditioner is designed to address ten signs of hair damage: tangles, dullness, brittle strands, split ends, hair fall, dry hair, rough feel, weakness, frizz and unmanageable hair. This is the conditioner for women who already have damaged hair or whose lifestyle and habits expose their hair to damage.

Shean Lim, Senior Technologist for P&G Hair Care, explains the science, “When hair is not damaged, the cuticle or the outer layer of the hair is in place, effectively protecting the inner structure or cortex. However, due to mechanical, environmental, thermal and chemical factors, our hair becomes damaged, which means that the cuticles are lifted and the cortex becomes exposed.”

Lim shares, “Damaged hair has a higher negative charge density than healthy hair. When the cuticle is lifted, the exposed cortex becomes more and more negatively charged.”  In the first Beautiful Science experiment, the Static Generator, which creates negative charges, is used to measure the level of damage in hair. When a person touches the metallic ball of the Static Generator, the negative charges from the generator transfers to that person. Damaged hair becomes even more negatively charged and hair strands begin to repel each other, causing damaged hair to stand up. 


Pantene Daily Intensive Conditioner gives women healthy, beautiful hair that resists static electricity. It deposits a protective layer on hair strands and contains 80% more conditioning ingredient versus Pantene’s regular conditioners. The conditioning ingredients are positively charged to neutralise the negative charges of damaged hair. Pantene Daily Intensive Conditioner with Pro-V makes hair strong on the inside, soft and shiny on the outside.

Personally, I swear by the Total Damage Care Intensive Conditioner. It keeps my hair really healthy despite being colored regularly. However, I can't wait to try out the Color and Lasting Perm variant as well. Can't wait to test them all. Thanks, Pantene! :)


Discover the #BeautifulScience behind the World’s No. 1 Conditioner Brand*, Pantene!

*P&G Calculation based on Nielsen sales information from July 2012 to June 2013

XO, Mish


01 November 2014

RYU Ramen and Curry, SM Jazz Makati - Tantanmen Five Review



At first, ramen and curry do not seem to be a combination that would make me say "Wow! I'd like to eat that!" Luckily, my trip to RYU Ramen and Curry made me realize how smart this combination is. Ramen, which is considered as a part of the Japanese culinary art, paired with Curry, an ingredient that will surely spice up your palate, is one of the greatest way to enjoy Japanese cuisine. 


RYU Ramen and Curry considers their dishes as an art and their restaurants as a gastronomical gallery for such. Thus, they are known for creating The Art of Tantanmen and Curry. RYU (pronounced as ri-yu) actually means "dragon" in Japanese. And just like the legendary creature, RYU captures the imagination and gastronomical experience of those who gets to enjoy its dishes. By the way, RYU is actually part-owned by celebrity Ogie Alcasid.


RYU currently has three branches - one at UP Town Center in Katipunan and another in Tomas Morato. The one which I visited was at SM Jazz in Makati. I haven't been to their other branches but the one in SM Jazz seem to be their largest branch. It is indeed very spacious! It has its own (clean) bathroom, comfortable seats, and nice lighting and interior.


Before trying out their new dishes, we were treated to some of their bestsellers - Katsucheese Curry and RYU Ramen Curry. I was very eager to try out the Katsucheese Curry because the combination of cheese and katsu sounds amazing!

Katsucheese Curry - P360
RYU Ramen Curry - P380 

The Katsucheese Curry is definitely a must try! The outer part of the katsu is very crispy and the meat itself is very tender. Surprisingly, the curry goes well with the cheese, katsu, and rice. Every bite seem to be a treat with all those cheese! On the other hand, their signature dish - RYU Ramen Curry - is equally as good. I actually didn't know what to expect at first. My first sip though surprised me with its spiciness and curry flavor. You'll find it strong if you're not used to it. The spiciness lingers in my mouth but just right to boost my appetite.


As part of their new menu, RYU launches the Tantanmen Five. It consists of five Tantanmen dishes which were prepared by their culinary artists. Unfortunately, my blogger friends and I were able to try only four out of five. Nevertheless, we were still full right right after the review. It was also very timely to have their Tantanmen then because the weather was quite gloomy when we dropped by.

Yaki Buta Tantanmen - P380

Rich flavor of tender pork ribs that strips off the bone with a mix of fresh vegetables, and noodles in a bowl of miso based soup.

Karaage Tantanmen - P380

Hefty chicken pieces topped with shiitake mushroom, vegetables, and noodles in a bowlful of miso based broth.

Ebi Tantanmen - P430

Shrimp bits packed goodness in a bowl of flavorful miso based stock with fresh green vegetables, and noodles.

Classic Tantanmen - P360

Rich miso based broth with delectable chashu slices, spicy ground pork, soft boiled egg, and tasty noodles.

Everything seem new to my taste but they didn't put me off. You'll know from how they were presented that they are not your ordinary ramen dishes. These Tantanmen dishes have thick broth, firm noodles, and rich taste. I can't seem to decide though which one is my favorite. There is something to love in each of them. I love how the crispy chicken goes well with the broth in the Karaage Tantanmen. The pork ribs of the Yaki Buta Tantanmen literally melts in your mouth and adds more flavor to the ramen itself. Of course, the Ebi Tantanmen is not hard to fall in love with. The shrimp bits together with the vegetables seem to be the perfect ingredients to a ramen dish. Lastly, the Classic Tantanmen, which spiciness can be altered depending on your preference, proves that simple is better.


As regards the price of the Tantanmen Five, it ranges from P360 to P430. However, I consider it worth every peso because one serving is good for two persons. Honestly, I do not think I could finish one serving. Moreover, the way their dishes were thought of, made, and presented shows how exceptional they are. So if you want Ramen with a flavor of ingenuity, experience it only at RYU Ramen & Curry, The Art of Tantanmen and Curry.

RYU Ramen & Curry is conveniently located at Tomas Morato Quezon City +632 709 8789, U.P. Town Center Katipunan Ave. Quezon City +632 294 3574, and SM Jazz Makati +632 874 1022

Visit their social media accounts as well:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Ryu.Ramen.Curry
Twitter - https://twitter.com/ryuramencurry
Instagram - http://instagram.com/ryuramenandcurry

Thank you Ryu Ramen and Curry and Open Rice for inviting me!

XO, Mish

PS, follow me on OpenSnap application - @mishrendon :D