"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do... Explore. Dream. Discover."~ Mark Twain

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Ugu Bigyan's Secret Pottery Garden: The Food

Mini Huts

     We made reservations before going to Ugu Bigyan's Garden and Restaurant. We thought we won't be able to have lunch there since a minimum of 5 persons was required according to blogs we've read. Fortunately, he was kind enough to entertain us, even if it's just the two of us. :)

Saying our graces before the meal

     We were seated at the kubo at the back. It was an al fresco dining expereince, with matching soothing background music, a bit of rain, and the sound of chimes handmade by Ugu himself.

     After saying our graces, we then feasted on such delectable dishes! ^_^

Made from clay

     The food served were all very enticing and scrumptious! Some we've never tried before, others - better versions! We were given 9 different dishes -- what a full, heavy lunch! Haha! :D

SOUP

Soup

     The soup, served in handmade pottery, was warm, tasty and perfect for the rainy weather. It had bits of chicken, onion leaks, pork and was just so filling. It was the perfect start to our late lunch.


Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Ugu Bigyan's Secret Pottery Garden: The Place

House of clay

     This is our third destination in the Viaje del Sol, along with Casa San Pablo and  Lake Pandin/Yambo, and we braved the storm to get here! It was well worth the trip and effort. The place was so awe-inspiring and relaxing! :)

Bronze sculpture

Non-traditional huts

     As the name suggests, it is both a haven for pottery and a serene garden with luscious greens. It is a perfect place to appreciate the simplicity and beauty of nature.

     Mr. Bigyan is a master both in ceramics and culinary arts. He designs and makes various earthenware, with unique themes like bamboo, birds and leaves. He is also good at the kitchen, creating dishes perfect for the Pinoy palate. He opened his home for others to appreciate and share in his wonderful works! :)

Peaceful haven

     Before heading to their store, we decided to look around first. The huge garden had mini huts, about four of them - good places to lay back, relax, and eat. One was big enough for a group of 8 while others are just right for 2. :p


Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Nomnomnom Happy Food

Where Happy Foods Are

     We've been dying to try out Nomnomnom since we've heard about it from friends and read about it from blogs. We went here a few weeks ago but unfortunately, that was a Monday and they were closed. Finally, the day we've been waiting for arrived! Hello Nomnomnom! :)

Come In! ^_^

     Nomnomnom is a simple vegetarian restaurant at the corner of E. Rodriguez and Tomas Morato streets. They are open Tuesdays to Sundays from 12 noon to 12 midnight. According to the Urban Dictionary, nomnomnom represents the sound made when someone is eating or chewing something and really enjoying it -- let's see if it's true here in Nomnomnom.. :)

That's right! :p

THE AMBIANCE

     The interiors are not at all extravagant yet unique and gives the place character. They have warm lighting, a big enough space for a cozy dining experience and inspiring decors such as this wall art that says "Something good always happens" complete with the vibrant rainbow. :) Books, lamps and framed photos are also placed around the room.

Warm light

Box frames

     One thing that we like when going to new restaurants is when we get great home decoration ideas like these photos placed in a box type of frame, simple yet adds a touch of warmth to a room.

Monday, October 3, 2011

Café Milflores

Cafe Milflores

     In search of new and budding restaurants/cafes around Batangas, we came across Café Milflores, a small but unique pastry shop that serves delectable desserts as well as some appetizers such as sandwiches and pasta. 

Facade

     The café is at the corner of Dandan and Panganiban Streets, across the City Hall and near the park. You'd notice the café because of the bright yellow door, white picket fence and pink and white walls. By the door is a standee of Princess Kate and Prince Harry, not William. Haha! :D

Comfy Corner

Colorful decors

Cute tables

     The place is just small with only a number of chairs and tables but the atmosphere is one that is fun and inviting! The tables were similar to those at Café Noriter, with pictures, postcards, quotes under the glass tops. Each table is unique and designed differently, using a variety of table cloth designs. There were lamps on the ceiling -- placed specifically for a birthday celebration few days before. Those definitely made the room more lively and vibrant! :)