Japanese Maki🍣

 

🍣😂 Mga klase ng Maki na parang tao rin! 😂🍣

👉 California Maki – siya yung “classmate” na laging presentable at mabango kahit di naliligo. 🤭

👉 Tempura Maki – tough sa labas (crispy) pero softie pala sa loob. 😌

👉 Spicy Tuna Maki – yung kaibigan mong laging chill pero bigla na lang magpapasabog ng chismis 🔥

👉 Philadelphia Maki – sosyalin, kasi may salmon at cream cheese. Pang may pa-starbucks vibes. ✨☕

👉 Dragon Maki – extra, lagi siyang over the top, parang laging may pasabog na OOTD. 🐉👗

Kaya pala love ko ang maki… kasi kahit sa food, may hugot! 🤣

Ikaw, anong klaseng maki ka today?

#MakiMood #FoodieFeels #SushiPaMore

#MakiLovers, #JapaneseFood, #SushiTime, #FoodiePH,
#istariray23foodporn, #istariray23foodphotography,

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Goto + Tokwa’t Baboy is 🩷

🥣 My All-Time Comfort Food: Goto & Tokwa’t Baboy 🐷

There are many dishes in the Filipino food scene that can warm your heart, but for me, nothing comes close to the comforting duo of goto and tokwa’t baboy. This pair has been my go-to (pun intended!) for years — whether it’s a rainy afternoon, a late-night craving, or even just one of those days when you need a warm hug in the form of food.

Goto is not just rice porridge. It’s a hearty, gingery broth slow-cooked until the flavors meld beautifully. The beef tripe (or sometimes beef brisket) is tender, the rice is perfectly soft, and the aroma alone can make your shoulders relax after a long day. One spoonful instantly reminds me of home — that kind of comfort you can’t really explain, only feel.

And then there’s the perfect partner: tokwa’t baboy. The golden-brown fried tofu brings that satisfying crunch, while the pork, usually from the face or ears (maskara), adds a chewy, savory bite. All of this is soaked in a tangy, salty, slightly spicy sauce made from vinegar, soy sauce, onions, and sometimes a hint of chili. It’s that burst of flavor that cuts through the richness of the goto, creating a balance that makes you want “just one more bite” — over and over again.

This combination isn’t just food — it’s part of Filipino street food culture. You’ll find it in humble carinderias, roadside stalls, and even at special family gatherings. For me, every serving is like revisiting old memories:

• Late-night trips with friends to a small goto stand after a long day.
• Sunday merienda with family while it rains outside.
• That first sip of hot broth after coming home tired and hungry.

Best way to enjoy? Add a squeeze of calamansi, a sprinkle of chopped spring onions, and a bit of chili if you like it spicy. Pair it with an ice-cold drink or just plain water — because trust me, the flavors will be enough to make you smile.

It’s simple. It’s hearty. It’s home. ❤️

#FilipinoFood, #Goto, #TokwâtBaboy, #PinoyComfortFood, #RainyDayEats, #FoodBlog,#FoodieLife, #ComfortFood, #Goto, #TokwatBaboy, #PinoyEats, #RainyDayFavorites, #istariray23foodphotography,#istariray23moments,

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CheezLers Station 🧀

🧀✨ CHEESE ALERT! ✨🧀

Grabe mga ka-foodie, kung mahilig ka sa keso, CheezLers Station sa 3rd Floor ng Ayala Malls Manila Bay ang bagong paraiso mo! 😍

Kumain kami dito recently at OMG — cheese toast na sobrang gooey, cheese tarts na creamy at tamang-tama ang tamis, at basque cheesecakes na parang yakap sa bawat kagat. 😋 At ang pinaka-good news? Sulit at abot-kaya!

💛 Cheese Toast – comfort food goals 🥹
💛 Cheese Tarts – creamy happiness in a bite
💛 Basque Cheesecake – soft, rich, at mapapa-“isa pa nga!”

📸 Perfect sa snack time, pang-dessert, o kahit cheat day mo!

“Happiness is a warm cheese toast in your hands.”
“Life is better with cheesecake… swear!”
“Good cheese, good mood, great day.”

📍 3rd Floor, Ayala Malls Manila Bay — hanapin mo na at magpa-cheese overload! 🧀💛

#CheezLersStation, #AyalaMallsManilaBay, #CheeseLoversPH, #BasqueCheesecake, #CheeseTartLovers, #CheeseToast, #SulitDesserts, #FoodiePH, #CheeseGoals, #MasarapAtSulit, #DessertLoversPH, #istariray23laboy, #istariray23travel, #istariray23foodphotography, #istariray23moments,

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The Farmery

 

A Quick Brunch Stop at The Farmery, Molito Lifestyle Center 🌿🍳

Last Tuesday, I had the chance to drop by The Farmery at Molito Lifestyle Center in Alabang, Muntinlupa. I’ve seen this place pop up often on local food guides—praised for its rustic charm and “farm-to-fork” philosophy—so I decided to try it out for brunch.

The vibe?
Very chic-garden-café meets modern Filipino home. It was well-lit, well-ventilated, and had that subtle farm aesthetic without trying too hard. The place was clean, comfy, and had a relaxing indoor garden feel—perfect for slow mornings or catch-ups with friends.

🧑‍🍳 The Brunch Experience

I went with their American Breakfast, expecting a classic comfort food experience. Here’s a breakdown:

• Potatoes: These were a bit of a letdown. Instead of being crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, they came out too fried, losing that soft bite and flavor I usually look forward to.

• Bacon & Sausage: Also over-fried. While some people might love that extreme crispiness, for me, it was too crunchy to really enjoy the taste of the bacon or savor the sausage. I prefer meats that retain a bit of juiciness and seasoning—not just texture.

• Presentation: On the bright side, the plate was nicely arranged and visually appealing. It’s clear that plating and presentation are part of the care they put into the meals.

Here’s part of the review I left on Google:

“Food prices were competitive. Staff were friendly, helpful and attentive. American breakfast needs improvement—the potatoes and bacon were too fried and crispy, unable to taste their flavor.
Well-lighted and ventilated, clean and comfy place.
Staff were engaging and even suggested their bestsellers. Cheese rolls were well-presented and interesting to taste.
Limited tables. Limited parking space.”

 

🌟 Final Thoughts

The Farmery is definitely a great spot for a quiet meal or coffee with a peaceful vibe. The staff was pleasant and accommodating, and the café had a calm energy that’s quite rare these days. I’ll likely come back—but next time, I’d skip the American Breakfast and try their local dishes or something fresher off the farm-inspired menu.

If you’re in Molito and want a casual, cozy brunch spot, The Farmery is worth checking out—just choose your orders wisely and maybe ask how things are cooked beforehand if you’re particular with texture.

#TheFarmery,
#MolitoAlabang,
#AlabangEats,
#MuntinlupaEats,
#SouthEats,
#MolitoLifestyleCenter,
#FoodieSouthPH,
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Kiapo

**Rediscovering Filipino Comfort Food with a Modern Twist at KIAPO, Okada Manila**

There's something incredibly heartwarming about Filipino food—it’s nostalgic, soulful, and always tied to memories of home. At **KIAPO**, located inside the luxurious **Okada Manila**, you don’t just enjoy your favorite Pinoy dishes—you experience them in a whole new light.

🌟 A Fresh Take on Familiar Flavors

KIAPO offers a menu that is proudly Filipino, but with a modern culinary twist. From the plating to the flavor combinations, each dish feels elevated yet completely **true to its roots**. Think:

* **Sinigang** with perfectly balanced sourness

* **Kare-kare** with rich, nutty sauce and fork-tender meat

* **Crispy pata** that’s golden and crunchy outside, juicy inside

* And of course, **adobo**, reimagined without losing its soul.

Despite its modern approach, KIAPO never strays too far from what makes Pinoy food special—it’s still **comforting, hearty, and deeply satisfying**. Every bite reminds you of home, but surprises you in the best way.

"KIAPO brings Filipino favorites to the table with a modern soul—where every dish feels like home with a touch of flair. -iSTariray23



"Luxury doesn’t have to be expensive—at KIAPO, flavor, culture, and comfort come at a price that feels just right." -iSTariray23

💡 Budget-Friendly Dining Inside a Luxury Hotel?

Yes, you read that right. One of the most refreshing things about dining at KIAPO is how **affordable** it is—especially considering it’s inside a five-star hotel. Whether you're dining as a couple or with the whole family, the prices are **friendly to the wallet** and generous in portions. It’s proof that you can enjoy great food and a great location **without going broke**.

Sizzling Bulalo Php 898.00
Beef Shank, local vegetables, Filipino-style gravy

Bagnet Kare-Kare Php 608.00
Crispy Pork Belly, local vegetables, peanut sauce, shrimp paste

Pinakbet Php 438.00
Local vegetables, shrimp, pork, shrimp paste,

Tokwa't Baboy Php 488.00
Crispy Pork Belly, fried tofu, soy-vinegar sauce 

Sizzling Pork Steak Php 688.00



Pancit Luglug Php 518.00
Rice Noodles, Pork Chicharon, Smoked Tinapa flakes,
shrimp, squid, egg, special sauce

Tokwa't Baboy Php 488.00
Crispy Pork Belly, fried tofu, soy-vinegar sauce 

Halo-halo Php 328.00
sweet beans, macapuno strings, preserved jackfruit, nata de coco,
ube, leche flan, ice cream, milk, shaved ice

"Filipino food with a twist, but never without heart—KIAPO is where tradition meets creativity on every plate." -iSTarriay23

✨ Ambiance: Modern, Stylish, and Intimate

The restaurant’s interior strikes the perfect balance between **modern and cozy**. Warm lighting, clean lines, and subtle Filipino design touches make it an ideal setting for **intimate celebrations**—whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or simply a well-deserved family dinner.

The atmosphere makes you feel like you're treating yourself, without the formality. It’s upscale, but still welcoming. Whether you're dressed up or just casual after a day out, KIAPO makes everyone feel right at home.

"Celebrations feel extra special when shared over Pinoy dishes that are both nostalgic and new—KIAPO is that perfect blend."- iSTarriay23

👨‍👩‍👧 Perfect for Fried-Family Moments

KIAPO is the kind of place where laughter flows, stories are shared, and plates are passed around with love. It’s ideal for **fried-family dinners** (we all have those special friend groups that feel like family!) and any gathering where connection and good food are at the center.

Final Thoughts

KIAPO is more than just another restaurant—it’s a **culinary celebration of Filipino pride**, served in a space that’s both elegant and accessible. Whether you’re craving classic dishes or want to impress guests with elevated Filipino fare, this spot in Okada should be on your must-visit list.

You come for the food, stay for the ambiance, and leave with a heart full of memories.

📍 *Location:* KIAPO, Okada Manila
🍽 *Best For:* Family dinners, special occasions, or rediscovering Pinoy food with a twist
💰 *Budget:* Affordable and worth every bite

"From ambiance to affordability, KIAPO proves you don’t need to travel far to rediscover the magic of Filipino cuisine." -iSTariray23

#KIAPO,
#KIAPOOkada,
#FilipinoFoodWithATwist,
#ModernPinoyDining,
#OkadaManilaEats,
#AffordableLuxury,
#FoodiePH,
#PinoyPride,
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Du Hsiao Yueh

 

📍 Dinner at Du Hsiao Yueh — Festival Mall, Alabang 🇹🇼

We had a delightful dinner experience at Du Hsiao Yueh, a well-known Taiwanese restaurant that delivers both flavor and value. Whether you're a first-timer or a long-time lover of Taiwanese cuisine, this place is a must-visit!

They offer 7 different set meals to choose from—each thoughtfully curated, filling, and incredibly budget-friendly. Perfect for solo diners, couples, or families who want a satisfying meal without spending too much.



“Good food doesn’t have to be expensive—Du Hsiao Yueh proves that flavor, 
value, and comfort can go hand in hand.”

Original Xiao Long Bao 5pcs Php 198.00

Hakaw 5 pcs Php 248



Braised Beef Noodles Php 398.00

Set Meal 7 Php 348.00

-Minced Pork Rice / Roast Pork / Salt & Pepper Chicken with Basil / Kiamchay / Tea Egg / Grilled Taiwanese Sausage / String Beans with minced Pork / Coke 

Seat Meal 8 Php 388.00

Rice / Black Pepper Beef / Salt & Pepper Squid Ring / Kiamchay / Tea Egg / Grilled Taiwanese Sausage / String Beans with minced Pork / Coke 

Aside from their set meals, they also have an impressive à la carte menu that includes a wide variety of dishes:

🍤 Seafood

🥩 Pork, beef, and chicken options

🍜 Noodles, soups, and dimsum

🥬 Vegetables, desserts, and beverages

No need to worry about price—everything is reasonably priced and generously portioned, making it great for those looking to dine well without going broke.

✨ What we loved most?

The ambiance: well-lit, well-ventilated, and relaxing.

The cleanliness: spotless tables and an overall tidy environment.

The service: attentive and courteous staff who made sure we were comfortable and satisfied throughout our meal.

Whether you’re in the mood for a quick solo dinner, a casual catch-up with friends, or a family night out, Du Hsiao Yueh hits the mark.

✔️ Clean tables

✔️ Great lighting & ventilation

✔️ Attentive service crew

✔️ Relaxing ambiance

Highly recommended for casual dinners and get-togethers!
🥢🍜✨🥢🍜✨

“From soup to dimsum, every bite feels like home—

Du Hsiao Yueh delivers more than a meal, it delivers comfort.”

#DuHsiaoYueh,
#TaiwaneseFood,
#FestivalMallAlabang,
#AffordableEats,
#FoodTripPH,
#AlabangEats,
#FoodReview,
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