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July 21, 2015


July 22, 2015, Wednesday is the second day of Lazada's effortless shopping bonanza! One of the flash sales that caught my eye is the Fujifilm Instax for Php 2999! It will be available at 3PM.

Now, the instax retails for a little over Php 4000. Roughly a 28% discount that could better serve you to buy more instax films for more of your precious moments captured. Don't let this opportunity pass by and go get it on this link here.

July 20, 2015



It was in my late college years that I decided to go out more frequently and try new experiences. Nearly five years after college, it was only then that I discovered Borough. I was looking for a great and unique place to eat at the Podium. It was then that a friend of mine told me about it. I remembered it being mentioned a long time ago.

The timing was perfect because me and my friends, JN and Rudy (not their real names) were looking to catch-up somewhere nearby.

When we arrived, we were surprised how hidden it was at the back corner if you had entered through the main entrance because the doorway and signage were obscured by the elevators and other establishments when viewed from the main entrance. The funny thing is that even their second entrance is also a little obscure. It can be found along the road leading to the underground parking area.

Neil Writes About Borough, The Podium Signange
The signage draws inspiration from the subway signages of New York City

At first glance, Borough's signage already gives you an idea of their service. If you've ever seen the subway signages from any TV series or Movies that were shot in New York, you'd be correct to see that it was intentional. Most of the items in their Menu are inspired from Big Apple.

We were lead to our table swiftly and were given the menu. We browsed through it, and for the very first time in my life did it take me more than five minutes to pick my order when normally I would need only two minutes. The reason for this is that most of the main course dishes had little details about them that were unique enough to captivate me.

Neil Writes About Borough, The Podium Ambiance
Naturally dark with dark shaded walls complimented by dark wooden and steel accents

The Ambiance

After we ordered and were waiting for the appetizer did it dawn on me on how different the place is. It is naturally dark with walls painted in dark shades and complimented by dark wooden and steel accents. It was wonderful because they could completely control the lighting and whole ambiance of the restaurant. They could strategically emphasize little thing details depending on their interior designer.

It feels like a New York Restaurant Bar with a loft like design with a second floor that adds more seating and a balcony like smoking area.

Neil Writes About Borough, The Podium. The Big Bagel
Half of the Big Bagel! (Yes, I was a wimp)

The Food

Borough serves twenty-four hours a day and separates their dishes into breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night. We've so far tried some of each.

Let's begin with the most important meal of the day, breakfast. The first to arrive was the big bagel. It came in all its round glory with bright earthy colors that was begging me to eat it. I took that first bite and my mouth was bursting the mixture of flavors and juices from the lemon, eggs, tomatoes and capers. The bland egg cream, the sour lemons and capers, the sweetness of the tomatoes and the salmon all fighting each other to compliment the strong bagel flavour. It was a best wake up call ever.

Neil Writes About Borough, The Podium. The Elvis
The Elvis is wonderful take on Banana and Peanut Butter Sandwich!


My brothers had the Riker's Island breakfast and the Elvis. The Former is a nod to Riker's Island's famous prison breakfast for the inmates. Baked beans, sunny side up eggs with bacon never a bad way to start your day. A man needs his protein. The latter on the other hand is their take on the classic peanut butter and banana sandwich. The bread was deep fried, New York Style with sides of sour cream and coconut dulce leche. There are times where sweet, simple and delicious is enough to kick you into overdrive for the day ahead.

Neil Writes About Borough, The Podium. Riker's Island Breakfast
Riker's Island Breakfast reminds us that simple can be so good!

What boggles my mind is that no matter which dish I tried, it always felt like New Your and never the generic American food that so many establishments try to replicate. Now lets move on to the Dinner Menu. (Yes, I came to borough twice for this)

Neil Writes About Borough, The Podium. All Beef Burger
Burgers are standard for any American inspired establishment!

For dinner, me and my friends had the all beef burger, the BBT (Breast, Brie and Tomato) and the fried chicken and waffles. The all beef burger was interesting because the bread itself had this amazing flavor that contrasted the moist, tender beef patty. The patty was smaller than most patties I am used to but it is surprisingly just as filling.

The BBT is nice take on the chicken breast sandwich where in the chicken breast is complimented by the Brie, the artichokes, and the Ficelle bread! Although the Ficelle is a bread that takes a while to get used to. It is also filled my friend up very quickly and he is a heath buff. He eats a lot and works-out a lot.

Neil Writes About Borough, The Podium. The BBT!
The Breast, Brie and Tomato Sandwich is served with Homemade Potato Chips!

At first, my friend wanted to order the Salmon and brown rice but was having second thoughts on the fried chicken and waffles. He eventually gave in and got the chicken. The chicken itself is standard, crispy skin with soft and moist insides. What astounded me was the fact that the skin was covered with remnants of oil bubbles yet the chicken did not taste or smell oily at all.

Neil Writes About Borough, The Podium. The Fried Chicken and Waffles
You can never go wrong with fried Chicken!

The waffles on the other hand had this crispy fried outer lining with a soft and sweet inner core that have this wonderful hints of cinnamon that served to counter and compliment the sweetness of the waffle and protein fatigue from too much chicken.

Don't keep your date waiting!

The Service

The Staff during th peak dinner hours were still kind and accommodating even though the place was almost full. They patiently waited for orders even though I took more than five minutes. The food came around fifteen minutes later. All cooked to perfection.

The Price

Appetizers start at Php 100.00 onwards while the main dishes start at Php 200.00 and can get up to Php 520.00 depending on the dish. Most of their alcohol start at Php 80.00 and may get to Php 320.00 like the Patron Gold. I find most of it reasonably priced for the serving and the quality of the ingredients. It may be a little bit of a premium but for the ambiance and service, I don't mind paying a little extra. 

The Verdict

What We LIKED:
  • Ambiance and Food feels like New York
  • Serving is optimal but very filling
  • Some dishes are not common with other establishments and are executed well
  • Food is amazing

What We Almost LIKED:
  • A little bit of a premium for some
  • Can be pretty dark for breakfast
  • Fifteen minute wait times can be a long time if you are really hungry

Do you want to Contact 'Borough?'
Address: G/F The Podium, 12 ADB Ave., Wack Wack, Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Instagram: @Borough_PH
Facebook: Borough PH
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 24 Hours


Lazada announces their effortless shopping sale with the press release below! I personally am excited by the prices of the GoPro Hero4, the Zenpower Powerbank and the SJCam SJ4000 action camera!

Check it out!

PHILIPPINES, July 2015 – Lazada, Southeast Asia’s leading online shopping and selling destination, kicks off its Effortless Shopping campaign (http://www.lazada.com.ph/effortless-shopping/) in the Philippines from 21-26 July highlighting the benefits of effortless online shopping to Filipino consumers.



“We are committed to providing an effortless online shopping experience to approximately 550 million consumers in the Southeast Asian region. While our customer satisfaction survey reveals that respondents are satisfied with their online shopping experience, there is an untapped opportunity to reach out to non-online shoppers by highlighting the benefits of online shopping and thus changing their perceptions,” said Inanc Balci, CEO of Lazada Philippines.  As an eCommerce leader in the Philippines, Lazada provides consumers with an effortless shopping experience with its user-friendly sites and mobile apps accessible at their fingertips anytime, any day. It offers a wide selection of international, local and exclusive products; and multiple secure payment options including cash-on-delivery.

Consumers can shop with peace of mind on Lazada as all items purchased are covered by Lazada's Buyer Protection Program. This provides a guarantee that products are genuine, new and not defective; and for customers to return the items within seven days for a full refund, otherwise. Consumers can also shop with assurance knowing that they can reach out to Lazada’s customer service seven days a week by phone and email.



A Jedi with A GoPro versus the Empire!


One talented Star Wars fan decided to mount a GoPro on himself to enlighten us on how it would feel like to be a Jedi against the Empire in a barren desert world.

The audio and special effects are captivating and realistic that it evokes the feeling of seeing the original trilogy for the first time all over again. 

After mounting the camera on himself we see him fighting a small group of stormtroopers that escalate in numbers, into AT-ATs, and into a TIE Fighter. It was clearly made for his love of the franchise!

Thank you Bill Parker!


July 15, 2015


Should men shave their armpits? Does shaving reduce odor? Antonio of Real Men Real Style answers these questions. Then answer will surprise you.

Antonio is the founder Real Men Real Style, a Youtube channel aimed to help men develop their sense of style.

On his website and in his channel you will find a treasure trove of information that is not limited to style. An example are his core foundation videos where he answers the question on why should real men care about appearance or do we really need to spend top dollar to get the look we want to achieve.

He also has a section on videos that cater to specific questions that his viewers ask. One of those questions is "Should Men Shave their Armpits?" After watching and subscribing to his channel, I found that all the information and conclusions are from credible sources. The passion exudes well.

 

In the video, he talks about an older study on armpit hair shaving and odor, and a contemporary study that seeks to prove the validity of the older to today's standards. The result is quite counterintuitive and I hope you enjoy the video.

I implore you to watch his videos and subscribe!

[Source: Youtube Channel Real Men Real Style]

July 11, 2015


Department of Coffee Philippines was kind enough to do a quick video about brewing your own coffee at home with both the Pour Over Method and with the French Press. In the video we show you step by step on how to get your caffeine fix at home. This recipe is for one cup of coffee.

They have a wonderful shop near Tomas Morato, and you should see there interiors on our article on DOC.


The Ingredients

  • 15 grams of Coffee beans of Choice
  • 230 ml of Hot Water

The Equipment

  • Grinder (Preferably Burr type)
  • French Press
  • Kettle (Electric or Stove top)
  • Scale (with Tare Option)
  • Countdown timer

I can't thank Department of Coffee enough for letting me learn from them up close. I hope you can visit them too! They are very open to your queries and suggestions!

Do you want to Contact 'Department of Coffee'
Address: 87A Don Roces Ave, Kamuning, Quezon City
Telephone number: (02) 374-6194
Instagram: @departmentofcoffee
 Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 7AM to 11PM





Department of Coffee Philippines was kind enough to do a quick video about brewing your own coffee at home with both the Pour Over Method and with the French Press. In the video we show you step by step on how to get your caffeine fix at home. This recipe is for one cup of coffee.

They have a wonderful shop near Tomas Morato, and you should see there interiors on our article on DOC.



The Ingredients

  • 15 grams of Coffee beans of Choice
  • 260 ml of Hot Water

The Equipment

  • Grinder (Preferably Burr type)
  • Kalita 102 Dripper and Glass Server
  • Kettle (Electric or Stove top)
  • Scale (with Tare Option)
  • Countdown timer

I can't thank Department of Coffee enough for letting me learn from them up close. I hope you can visit them too! They are very open to your queries and suggestions!

Do you want to Contact 'Department of Coffee'
Address: 87A Don Roces Ave, Kamuning, Quezon City
Telephone number: (02) 374-6194
Instagram: @departmentofcoffee
 Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 7AM to 11PM


July 08, 2015

Neil Writes About Department of Coffee


Before one becomes the master, one must first be the student. Shortly after I became eighteen while I was earning my college degree, I was getting burned out for studying anything related to it. I set out to make the most of my spare time by delving into other studies and curiosities. I have always been curious and earnest in learning new and different things. Most of the time I would find something interesting but find that it wasn't for me. It was fun but nothing compares to finding something that you are passionate for.

Learning about specialty coffee was one of those things, and at first I hated the idea of spending at least Php 150.00 for a cup of coffee from Starbucks. My resolve mellowed down after a couple of years where I started to like it but then grew sick of it because of sugar fatigue. I then tried the CBTL but it ended up the same way. 

Neil Writes About Department of Coffee Ambiance
Black Painted Steel and Varnished Wood evoke a modern version of a Log Cabin

A couple of months later I met a business consultant that predicted that the third wave coffee businesses will be the next big thing. It was then did my curiosity piqued because I recalled that when I was in Seoul Korea for some time and one of the things that left a huge mark was that there were coffee shops on almost every block that I went to. 

Months passed and I saw the business consultant's prediction come to fruition. Multiple establishments that are, and that promote coffee businesses have appeared. All of them are here to stay.

Neil Writes About Department of Coffee Ambiance
Wooden Animal Silhouettes and Animal horn trophies add to the Log cabin feel

It was then that I saw Department of Coffee's signage along Wilson St. whenever I went home coming from Greenhills Shopping Center. It was here that I got to taste my first specialty coffee. It also helped that the owner was there to teach and explain to me that coffee was far more complex than I had thought. He said that each origin has a unique flavors which I had to know to find the beans that would suit my tastes. At the time I only knew that I didn't like strong fruity flavors and high acidity. He recommended the beans from brazi; hence, my very first specialty coffee was a mocha Brazilian latte.  Sadly at the time they were moving to Tomas Morato which is a little far from my usual hangout spots.

Intermission!

The cool people of DOC has been kind enough to open the opportunity to make a simple how-to video of coffee you can brew at home. We made two using the more home-friendly methods of brewing with a french press and with the manual pour over method. You can check them out on these links: French Press and Pour Over.


Neil Writes About Department of Coffee Ambiance
They have a second floor for groups who prefer privacy!

The Ambiance

DOC's aesthetics is a wonderful combination of rustic and modern. The use of black painted steel and the thick varnished hard wood with accents that you would find in a log cabin. It strikes a balance between homey and productivity. Although at times it feels like I'm in the woods.

When you step inside you will see the wonderful counter with the huge La Marzocco Strada. It is an awe inspiring piece of machinery if you've ever seen one. The kitchen is behind the counter with a huge glass panel that lets you peak inside.

Right beside the counter is their huge coffee bean roasting machine. Behind it are wooden cut outs of animal silhouettes that serve contrast to the grey walls.

Neil Writes About Department of Coffee Ambiance
A conference room for a more intimate affair

The Coffee, The Food and The Service

They serve beans from international sources like Brazil and Ethiopia and from local sources like Benguet. It just so happened that my latest cup is a Benguet Cappuccino.

Neil Writes About Department of Coffee


Less than ten minutes after we coordinated our order with their lovely waitress, Karen, the cups came and immediately you get a whiff of intoxicating aroma of the coffee. It was lovely and evoked a "I want to get to work" state in me.

As I take my first sip, I notice right away the smooth transition from the initial distinct coffee bitterness to the sweetness of the beans and then to milk seemingly taming the fruity flavor of the beans.

When I started drinking speciality coffee, I really hated the fruity taste. I would praise the baristas who are able to tame that flavor and bring out the others to make a balanced beverage. After a while, I began to realize that I am warming up to it. I still don't like it but I feel that it is a inevitable part of the coffee experience. I owe my first foray into this world because of the passionate owner of Department of Coffee and I highly suggest you try as much beans as you can until you find that one bean you can bring home to your mother to.


The Price

Their coffee starts at Php 80.00 and max out at Php 120.00. They also serve home made ice cream for Php 30.00 per scoop,coffee partners like cookies, and breakfast dishes like eggs Benedict.



The Verdict

Overall Verdict: A
Beverage Quality: A
Service Quality: A
Bang for your Buck: A+

Do you want to Contact 'Department of Coffee'
Address: 87A Don Roces Ave, Kamuning, Quezon City
Telephone number: (02) 374-6194
Instagram: @departmentofcoffee
 Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 7AM to 11PM

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