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Showing posts from September 12, 2023

When the longing for authentic Pinoy dishes strikes in the U.S., Isla Grand stands ready to transport your taste buds back to the Philippines.

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...

Carmina Lifestyle Went Live Streaming with Mom Violy at Manila Baywalk Dolomite Beach

Before Carmina had planned to do a live streaming with Mom Violy she had informed her once you've talked there is no way to edit it. 🤣 Mom Violy at first was quiet giving a heads up.  Carmina explained to Mom Violy she needs to start doing live streaming which is required for everyone who wants to ads on reels in their Facebook. It is a challenge we need to conquer even if we don't know what to discuss while having a live streaming. In the beginning Carmina informed Mom Violy she'll walk at the sky bridge since I was informed it was the only way to cross over to the other side. Mom Violy said, no. I'll just stay in the car. Carmina was preparing herself and began leaving the car. Mom Violy said, okay I'll go with you. I asked Mom Violy are you sure you'll be alright climbing the stairs up on the sky bridge.  It turns out Mom Violy came along with Carmina to explore.  Afterwards walking on Roxas Boulevard Carmina was looking for the entrance of  Manila Bay Walk ...

Mom Violy Craving for Olive Garden's Never-Ending Soup, Salad and Breadsticks

Carmina informed Mom Violy that she would be in the area of Mall of Asia and invited her to join. Mom Violy suggested eating at Olive Garden, and Carmina agreed since they had seen one months ago before dining at another restaurant. The Never-Ending Soup, Salad, and Breadsticks costs 795.00 pesos ($14.00), and you can choose a different soup for this meal. Mom Violy's favorite is the Chicken & Gnocchi soup. Carmina tried their Minestrone during her last visit to Olive Garden. This time, my meal included soup, so I chose the Zuppa Toscana with spicy sausage, kale, and potatoes. It wasn’t as spicy as the server had described. Carmina ordered the Italian Braised Short Ribs , which comes with a choice of rice or mashed potatoes, for 995.00 pesos ($17.45). Each main course includes salad and soup, so you can enjoy a satisfying meal by the time you reach the main dish, along with breadsticks.  A family member ordered the Shrimp Scampi Pasta , which comes with salad, soup, and bre...