Joie de Vivre: Restaurant Cicou

photo credit: Carol Soesanto

There’s a place in the South where food connoisseurs and those with impeccable taste indulge in caviar and French wine. I give you, Restaurant Cicou, a French bistro in Hotel Celeste manned by the brilliant Chef Cyrille Seonen. A little trivia, the name is actually derived from the Chef’s nom and prenom, Cy- and Seo-, hence the name Cicou.

This French establishment takes first impressions quite seriously. From the warm and cheery valet to the lovely receptionist, I knew that dinner would be nothing less than exceptional. The contemporary décor and the place’s understated luxe appeal will certainly put you in the mood. But such posh interior suggests that Cicou is more of a rendezvous for couples and friends in search for the ultimate dining experience. As we all know, the French are very passionate especially when it comes to food so it’s no surprise that Restaurant Cicou is famed for satisfying countless palates. They offer a 4-course set meal, which includes the appetizer, soup of the day, entrée and dessert. For the picky eater, go a la carte and choose from a sundry of exotic dishes that will surely escalate your penchant for French cuisine. Since lamb is my weakness, I was able to resist the seafood and rib eye combo. That evening, I had Onion Soup, Australian Lamb and Poached Pear. The Onion Soup, a concoction of caramelized onions, sliced bread and mozzarella cheese, is already a meal in itself. Served in a deep bowl, the savory stew can satiate even a big appetite. My main course, marinated in lemon confit and almonds, was slowly baked Tajine-style. This succulent lamb shank is paired with light-flavored semolina, a milled product of durum wheat used in pasta. The fusion of the two flavors is sure to excite your taste buds. For dessert, I chose to order something sweet and tangy. On my plate was poached pear granité or frozen dessert, complemented with light pear mousse and sweet gelée. Mon poison du jour? Colombelle Vin de Pays 2007, a French white wine produced in the South of France. This fresh and fruity white with creamy vanilla base notes, offsets the highly-flavored delicacies.

Experience French cuisine at it’s finest without having to fly thousands of miles away. Learn the art of wine tasting or simply enjoy a glass with warm company. Dare to be adventurous and try something foreign to your palate—snails or duck liver perhaps? There’s a long list to choose from so take your time, build your apetite, the server will guide you through. Bon apetit!       

*Restaurant Cicou is located at Hotel Celeste, 2 San Lorenzo Drive Cor. A. Arnaiz Avenue, Makati City. For reservations or inquiries, please call 887-8080 local 242/ 268.

Amber UltraLounge

photo credit: Carol Soesanto

Welcome Amber UltraLounge, one of the hottest clubs to rise in the Metro. Located at the Fort in Taguig City, it’s no surprise that this social establishment is quickly becoming a haven for both the young and mature partyphiles.

There are three things I consider before stepping into a club—ambiance, people and music. The luminous and almost hypnotic Amber lights outside is what fueled my curiosity. I’m glad they failed to disappoint. I’d have to commend the genius behind the impeccably chic interior. The wall embellishments are absolutely clever. As for the people, I think Amber appeals more to the polished and sophisticated bunch. So surf the crowd and get star struck with some of the Metro’s most prominent faces that frequent the scene. The DJ definitely knows how to please his audience. From old school to mainstream, he's got them singing and dancing. So really, I don’t see any reason why this ultra lounge shouldn’t be on anyone’s go-to list.

photo credit: Therese San Diego

Turning Japanese at Senju

img src:http://www.shangri-la.com/assets/D2B5F1B8-B833-4A68-9524-585B3BB8219D.jpg

I recently had dinner at Senju with my folks and I must say, this place without a doubt still serves the best sushi in town! This authentic Japanese restaurant found at the second floor of the Edsa Shangri-La is run by the brilliant Chef Toshi. The modern interior never fails to fascinate me. I don’t think I will ever get tired of admiring the ingenuity of juxtaposed Bamboo (refer to photo above). Senju serves food that will definitely excite your palate. I’m a huge fan of their sushi, it’s fresh and almost orgasmic (well almost). But I wasn’t too impressed with their prawn tempura and chicken teriyaki. It was good but I was expecting something that would blow me away since a single plate at this posh restaurant is a bit pricey. So, come with hefty pockets if you decide to dine at Senju and don’t forget to dress nicely too.

Thumbs Down for Suriya Spa, Frontera Verde

DISCLAIMER: This article is based solely on MY observation/ experience. I have not checked the other rooms nor have I tried other services offered by the spa.

As part of my mom’s birthday blowout, I took her for an indulgent massage at the Suriya Spa in Frontera Verde. She’s been wanting to try their services, but sadly she never had the time. So she was very much thrilled when she learned about the surprise. I was excited myself to get a facial at this multi-awarded spa. But the joy on our faces melted as soon as we laid our hands on their dirty robes and towels, and met the garrulous spa therapist. A spa is supposed to be a place of refuge for those in dire need of some R n R. But Suriya Frontera Verde seemed more like a shelter for grime and gossip.

Someone call the health inspector (FYI: most health inspectors have broader job duties)! The white walls in our private room were blemished with dust and dirty handprints. The “fresh” robes and towels were off-white in color and it smelled funny—like musky-wet-dog funny. My mother, meticulous and extremely hygienic by nature, actually asked one of the therapists if the bath linens were clean. And as if insulted by the question, she anxiously said yes. As a matter of fact, they bring the laundry to one of the best Laundromats in the area. I wanted to scream and pull her hair. But I had already paid for their services. I doubt that they will refund me. I thought nothing more could top our horrendous experience until a motor mouth therapist walked into the room. She was jabbering about the countless exams she had to take to get into the esteemed spa. To further dampen my mood, her tools kept falling on the floor. Thank God she was smart enough to wash and sterilize them otherwise I would’ve thrown a major hissy fit. But despite the upsetting experience, I was decent enough to tip them nicely.