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...
The restaurant we often eat in Dampa Seaside is being renovated. Pia had approached us in the parking area. Pia noticed by the look of my face and informed that she is now working for Kainan Sa Balanghay. Pia brought us inside Kainan Sa Balanghay. Mom Violy began talking to Pia asking her to assist us to shop inside the public market. The family members who are visiting had informed us what they wanted to eat by looking at the menu. Pia had assisted us to the nearest public market purchase lobster, shrimp, squid and fish. They had suggested the best way to cook the lobster steam with hot chili sauce to dip. Butter and garlic cooked for the shrimp and crabs. Grilled pompano was served with grilled squid stuffed with tomatoes and onion dipping sauce was vinegar or soy sauce with calamansi. When you're a visitor they want to eat something combined with green mango, tomatoes and onion a popular salad in the Philippines usually dip with bagoong. Calamari is something we usually get not...