Carmina is traveling to the United States to spend time with her family. My dad planned a family gathering for Mother's Day at their favorite Pinoy restaurant . Since reservations aren’t possible, we arrived an hour early to ensure we could get a table for twelve before everyone else showed up. As my dad approached Isla Grand , the branch we visited in Pleasant Hills, California , the host at the door said they could prepare a table for twelve at five o'clock. Later, the server called my dad's name and guided us to our table. The place was bustling with people enjoying meals and celebrating Mother's Day. On our first visit to Isla Grand, I was captivated by the décor, noticing many native items that gave the place a fancy yet authentic Filipino feel. They usually have a live band, but unfortunately, there was no entertainment the night we went. My family had spoken highly of Isla Grand and encouraged us to try the Filipino dishes we’ve been missing from back home. Lech...
Who doesn't enjoy cherry picking season that comes every year in the month of mid-May to mid- June depending on the rainfall becomes available in Brent wood, California. Every time I get the chance to visit California I make sure I bring some cherries back home in the Philippines. Did you know cherries range from $20.00 per kilo in the Philippines and comes from the same area. While you spend less buying or picking cherries in California. How I wished we can just have a cherry tree in the Philippines. Of, course it is not possible due to our tropical climate. In the Philippines we buy cherries either in Farmer's Market located in Cubao, Quezon City, Divisoria behind 168 shopping malls near the fruit stand near the bridge or in Uni Mart located in Greenhill's Shopping Mall. Other than cherries you can find plum, peaches, nectarine, kiwi and persimmon depending on the season when they are available. Yet, they cost a lot and our pocket cannot afford t...