Uncle Cheffy

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 There’s a new panizza place at the Eastwood Mall’s mezzanine (well fairly new) Cal and I were supposed to have our healthy fill at our favorite shabu-shabu restaurant. But we found ourselves wandering off to Uncle Cheffy instead. It was probably the menu that reeled us in. They offer a sundry of mouth-watering dishes inspired by local and international palates. The people behind Chef Quarter’s and Old Vine have truly outdone themselves this time. It’s a fine dining experience without spending a fortune. The ambiance is warm and laid-back, very much conducive to eating if you ask me. I love the wooden, corky patches on the walls. It gives off that bit of modern feel while staying true to its countryside appeal. I must commend the staff for being exceptionally warm and pleasant. They certainly know their food and the place’s history. As recommended by our server, we ordered one of the house’s best-sellers, Memphis BBQ US Beef Rib Fingers (800-1000g). Since their serving was pretty big, we requested for half the serving (500g) instead. This smoky flavored, tender juicy slab is served with marble potatoes drizzled with olive oil and green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing. We decided to go French for dessert and got Chocolate Roulade, a combination of vanilla ice cream and sponge cake with a chocolate garnish. This delectable slice of heaven melts in your mouth without overpowering your tastebuds. As for the dining cost, fret not the price won’t even put a dent in your pockets. You really get your money’s worth!

Leather Skirts and Bucket Bags

I’m not a big fan of pencil skirts and leather bottoms. I reserve the former for mature engagements and the latter for, well, the bedroom. But when I saw what Agyness Deyn wore at the New York premier of Inglorious Basterds, I had a sudden change of heart. I didn’t think you could wear a pencil cut, body-con, leather skirt with a grunge T-shirt and look awfully stunning. Dress dangerously and bring out the rebel in you a la Agyness Deyn or break free from fashion norms and experiment with other items in your closet. Try pairing it with an ultra feminine top for that subtle rockstar look.

 

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Bucket bags with long twisted metal straps are a closet staple this Fall. Babies of the eighties, rummage through your closet and get set to mix and match this B-bag with just about anything. For the 20-somethings, go vintage and raid your mothers’ closet. This carryall can go from coffee dates to night outs with friends. Glamorize and make an 80's statement without going overboard.

 

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img src: decadesinc.blogspot.com

*For vintage designer bags, clothes, shoes and accessories check out www.decadesinc.blogspot.com

J'adore Vivienne Tam

Many thanks to my best friend for reminding me of this ultra chic digital clutch by Vivienne Tam. It’s small, bright red and has pretty peonies on it—what’s not to like? Get those creative juices flowing! Slip on to your favorite Carrie Bradshaw frock and blog away on a lazy afternoon at fancy coffee shop. Not much of a writer? Surf the net in style by the pool while sipping a refreshing cocktail. Work looking absolutely fabulous and be the envy of every girl in your floor. Whatever your thrill, this luxury item will definitely raise the ante anytime, anywhere.

Launched in the US December 2008, this cute little thing has a 10 inch-screen, 1 GB of memory RAM, an Intel Atom 1.6GHz processor, and a 60GB hard-drive. It was released in Manila early this year. Starting price is $700, about 35 grand in Philippine Peso. Stocks, apparently, are limited.

Indulge at Persian Square

I’m a huge huge fan of exotic dishes! Among my long list of favorites, Persian cuisine is third. Their food is full-flavored, healthy and light but will surely satisfy your hunger pangs. Last Saturday night, I took Cal to Persian Square in Ortigas Home Depot. This quaint restaurant is a favorite rendezvous for most Persians living in the Metro and a place for food lovers to lounge and dine. The interior is absolutely beautiful. The fusion of deep, sultry hues, exotic beats and Moroccan-Mediterranean style was like being in Iran. Food is absolutely divine. The aroma of saffron, rosemary and other spices made me salivate. Everything smelled so good, it built up my appetite. We had ordered Maghz or Ox Brain for starters, but worry not, it’s 100% cholesterol free! For our main course we got Koobideh Kabab, “a skewer of juicy strips of charbroiled seasoned ground beef mixed with onion and Persian spices”, Shishlik Kabab, “a skewer of charbroiled T-bone lamb marinated overnight in yogurt, vegetables and Persian herbs and spices” and baskets of Pita and Barbari bread. Of course, a Persian meal would not be complete without Yoghurt Shake. But I suggest you try it sweetened because salty yoghurt might not be appealing to most Filipino taste buds. After a sinful indulgence of exotic flavors, we soothed our stomachs with delicious Cardamom Tea.

For more information on Persian Square, visit http://www.persiansquare.com.ph/menu.html.

Persian Square is located at Unit 101 Bldg B. Ortigas Home Depot, Julia Vargas Avenue, Ugong, Pasig City

Holiday Destination: Nurture Spa, Tagaytay

As much as I love the metropolitan lifestyle, I too, need to get away from the city from time to time. While the beach is usually my escape, the wet season prohibits me from braving blue waters. What with all the stories of people being engulfed by giant waves and ending up in South China, I wouldn’t dare. Besides, there’s no sun and therefore, no tan. My alternative destination during the cold and rainy season is Tagaytay. Aside from it being only an hour and a half away from the Metro, it’s picturesque landscape is enough to lighten up your mood. While most people find this literally cool city, boring and unexciting, Tagaytay actually has a lot more to offer if you’re familiar with the terrain. Well it’s not as exciting as the beach, but if you’re after breathtaking sights, awe-inspiring art and structures, self-indulgent activities and the best Bulalo in town, do head south.

 

In my most recent trip to Tagaytay, a few friends and I decided to treat ourselves to a well-deserved pampering session at Nurture Spa. It’s been around for a while now, but I never got the chance to check it out before because it’s seated far from the heart of the city. There is something comforting about its tropical ambiance. The spa’s interior is reminiscent of indigenous Filipino customs and traditions. The homey vibe that it exudes instantly relaxes your senses—the smell of Narra furnishings, the native kubos and ethnic décor to name a few.  The staff is genuinely warm and pleasant. In fact, they will even give you a quick tour of this beautiful hideaway. The spa menu was inspired by local healing traditions from different parts of the country. Cal and I decided to try Magsing-Irog Massage which is perfect for couples. This massage therapy combines sandalwood, ylang ylang and lavender essential oils to infuse passion and romance among lovers. According to the therapists the three aromatic oils were used by ancient Filipinos to “ignite a passionate response” from their partners. The room is simple, yet charming. It has two comfy spa beds, a shower and a nice view of a small garden. The afternoon treat started with a brief foot spa. They use lemon water with flower extracts and a special scrub (which is made mostly of dried corn) to invigorate tired feet. My attempt to stay awake the entire treatment failed. It was so relaxing that after the therapist worked on my thighs, I was already out cold. I guess the weather helped set the mood as well. Cal had to tap my arm a few times so that I’d wake up—I swear, it was that good. The pain I’ve been feeling in my back, shoulders and neck was gone and I can breathe better. Refreshing Pandan Tea completed the rejuvenating experience. It was a journey to wellness that soothed my mind, body and spirit. I’d give Nurture Spa five out of five stars overall. 

Rihanna, All Blown-Up

While most style sites and fashion magazines applaud Rihanna’s flair in juxtaposing modern and classic pieces, I would have to say that the colossal hair, pouffy tapered slacks, animal print shoes and sleeveless duster cropped coat spell fashion mishap for me. It’s just a little bit too much! The star’s neutral palette somehow balances out this ultramodern ensemble. En masse its overkill but individually worn, the key items should put you on anyone’s most stylish list. A paper bag and nothing else with those Pigalle 100 Pumps by Christian Louboutin would land you in the tabloids, but rest assured you’ll look fabulous in your own right.

So, what’s your verdict?

Celebrate Fall '09 in Style

Bid Summer goodbye and welcome Fall with open arms. A new season calls for an awesome transformation. Be bold and dangerous; experiment with the new but stay true to your own style. I took my cue from Patrick Demarchelier of British Vogue and www.whowhatwear.com on runway staples and fashion trends for this season. While we don’t experience Fall in the Metro, it shouldn’t stop the chic and stylish from living and breathing fashion.

Sky high boots are the new leggings. You don’t have to be in London or Paris to frolic in thigh-skimming boots. Pair them with a mini dress and be the life of the party or up the ante at coffee dates with the girlies and wear them with shorts and a trench to match.

Bruno Frisoni’s latest collection is reminiscent of royalty. His grandiose shoes and bags were inspired by the Roger Vivier shoes worn by Queen Elizabeth II for her coronation. Since the Queen had to stand long hours during the ceremony, she was well heeled and majestic. Think soft leather shoes and fleur-de-lis straps embellished with precious stones. Frisoni’s creations are truly “refined but subtle”, fit for any queen and queen wannabe.

The 80’s is shortly becoming a mainstay in the fashion scene. The shoulder pads redux have become unstoppable. Shoulders are rising horizontally or vertiginously from the runways of Dolce & Gabbana, Marc Jacobs and Givenchy among others.

Chokers prove to be a closet essential this season. The chunkier the better, the more the merrier! This all-purpose accessory, as seen on celebs like Isla Fisher, Sandra Bullock and Milla Jovovich, glams up cazh ensembles and adds “posh pizzaz” to party frocks.

The Ber months are upon us. Surf and dazzle crowds only with the latest and hottest trends. Don’t let the erratic weather get you down. Celebrate Fall in style!