Nana Wanders...: March 2012

27 March 2012

Song Do Korean Restaurant

Having resided in Katipunan and Teacher's Village for quite some time, it is inevitable that I develop an inclination towards Korean food. Since many Koreans live in those areas, Korean establishments such as groceries and restaurants sprouted and became abundant. I usually eat in a Korean restaurant once a week. However, now that I do not live there anymore, I rarely get the chance to eat the said cuisine. Hence, imagine my delight when I discovered a Korean restaurant near my workplace. Actually, I pass by it everyday but it was only recently that I took notice of it. Those of you who frequent Ortigas might be familiar with it already.

What I like about Korean restaurants is that they give complimentary appetizers and soup. Most places allow for refills as well. They do this even if you order just a dish.

Appetizers: kimchi, fish cakes, pickled chili and a lot more!

Complimentary soup

For that night, my friend Bamu and I ordered US Angus Jumul ruk (Php450.00), Woo Samgyup (Php380.00) and Dolsot Bibim Bap (Php330.00). For a complete list of Song Do's menu, click here.

Woo Samgyup

US Angus Jumul ruk

I did not enjoyed the Woo Samgyup or beef belly that much because it was too dry and bland compared to the ones I have tried before. As for the US Angus Jumul ruk which is marinated beef ribs, I really recommend it. It is juicy and tasty. The marinade has a sweet and tangy taste that I like. Remember the appetizers above? You can put both of these beef dishes on top of a lettuce, add appetizer of your choice, roll and eat. The vegetables makes eating this healthier.

Dolsot Bibim Bap

Whenever I go to Korean restaurants, Bibim Bap is a dish that I always order. The combination of rice, vegetables, ground beef and egg may be too simple and uninteresting for some, but I think the authenticity of a Korean restaurant can be determined by their Bibim Bap. It is simple yet complex while having that light taste despite being spicy. Well, the spice level is up to you as the chili paste is served separately. As for Song Do, their Bibim Bap tasted authentic.

In totality, I enjoyed dining in Song Do. My only comment is that the staff was not attentive as I expected them to be. Bamu even had to stand to and go to the counter to ask for water. Aside from that, this is a place I can recommend to you.

Song Do Korean Restaurant
2nd Level, Ortigas Center, El Pueblo Real

Julia Vargas cor. ADB Ave., Ortigas Center
Pasig, Metro Manila, Philippines
Phone Number:
(+63 2) 636.4821
(+63 2) 636.3626

16 March 2012

J.CO Donuts & Coffee Has Arrived in the Philippines

Finally! The "fastest growing donuts and coffee chain in South East Asia" has arrived in the Philippines. J.CO Donuts & Coffee also has branches in Bali, Singapore, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, and Shanghai.

Last March 15, 2012, Filipinos had a taste of this brand from Indonesia when it opened its first store in the Philippines at The Strip Megamall. I was so glad when I found out that its store is just a few minutes away from my office. Thus, I did not miss the opportunity to go to their opening day.

I was so excited on my way there because many of the people walking in Megamall were holding boxes of J.CO Donuts. Still, I was surprised when I arrived at the store and saw it was all jam-packed despite the program having ended. Literally, the products are selling like hot ~~pancakes~~ donuts! Don't believe me? Look.

Barmy (the one in yellow) left me the instant we got there. He got amazed at the variety and went to look at the menu board.

The staff kept on making donuts and refilling the trays, but they become empty again after a few seconds.

I admire them for being able to keep up with the crazy demand that night.

What I like about J.CO is that their wide selection of donuts, drinks and yoghurt. Considering the size, Php42.00 may be expensive, but the more you buy, the more you will be able to save. Imagine, 2 dozens of their donuts only cost Php550.00. That's Php22.92 per piece. Much cheaper than your regular premium donuts brand.

There were a lot of yummy-looking donuts, but these two caught my attention. The one on top is called Mr. Green T which has Matcha cream and toasted almonds. On the other hand, the bottom is called J. Club Cheezy Rich which is oozing with cheese.

A smile showed in my face the moment I took a bite at this sweet treat. It was so yummy and satisfying. It is not too sweet as well allowing you to munch on several pieces without that "umay" factor. It was definitely a love at first bite.

I also tried their Iced Chocolate. I really like it because the cocoa taste is very apparent. This is definitely refreshing!

In addition, the staff of J.CO are really efficient, attentive and polite. I was very satisfied with their service considering the huge amount of people who come and go. So much so that people in the line are waiting not only to pay, but also to wait for the donuts to be made. That's how fast it sells. I didn't mind the long queue because the staff are delightful. Here is a picture with Alvene Ngo, their Marketing Assistant. She was very sweet and accommodating.

They also have a photo booth outside the store. I took this with BB that's why it is blurry.

The next day, I cannot stop raving about it in our office. The next thing I knew, my boss bought 2 dozens for everyone, and conducted a mini donuts party. What a sweet afternoon it was!