Father’s Day 2014 Gift Guide

In case you don’t own a calendar or haven’t looked it up on Google, this Sunday, June 15th, is Father’s Day. My dad lives in the Philippines so I can’t exactly spend it with him in person but luckily I visited him a few months ago. For those of you lucky enough to be able to see your dad on Father’s Day, here a few gift suggestions:

1. When my dad came to Toronto for my graduation, I took him to a Jays game and he loved it. It remains one of my fondest memories.

2. I’ve heard only good things about this bestseller.

3. One can never go wrong with a nice tie in a fun color.

4. My boyfriend’s dad loves this movie and so will you.

5. Who doesn’t love beer? If your dad doesn’t, there’s always his favorite bottle of (insert liquor here).

6. An overnight bag so he can come visit you more often.

Happy Thursday and if you live in Ontario, don’t forget to vote!

Drinks To Make At Home This Summer

Last week I posted about the recipes I can’t wait to try this summer. This week, I wanted to try and recreate my favorite drinks at home for those times when I’m craving a killer cocktail but don’t really want to go out and get it.

Sangria
The quintessential summer drink. I enjoy both red and white but prefer the latter. Last Saturday, I met up with some of my best girlfriends at Bannock, one of my favorite restaurants, and had a melon sangria that was so good. This recipe is probably the closest to it.

Frozen Bellini
It’s no secret that I’m addicted to JOEY Restaurants‘ bellinis. But it’s not like I can go every week, even if I could afford it. Solution: this recipe.

Jolly Rancher Martini
Hey Lucy is one of my go-to spots in Toronto for meeting up with friends. They have two locations but I’ve only ever been to the one in front of TIFF. I love the pasta and the extensive martini menu. I even had my champagne birthday there last year. I’ve tried several of their martinis but the one I keep coming back to is the “Jolly Rancher”. It tastes just like the candy it’s named after and is very addicting. Don’t believe me? Make one at home.

Pisco Sour
This is probably the toughest drink on the list to make at home but I am so in love with this cocktail that I’m willing to give it a try. If I’m unsuccessful with re-creating it, then it’s a good thing Pisco, my favorite Peruvian restaurant that makes the best Pisco Sours among other things, is literally a few steps away from my apartment.

Have an awesome Tuesday!

Tasty Tuesday: Culinary Adventures in the Philippines Part 2

Last week I wrote about some of the culinary highlights from my Philippine trip. As previously mentioned, I discovered a lot so here’s part two. Keep these in mind if you live in, are going to the Philippines or just looking for ideas for your next meal:

If you want something refreshing…
I suggest the strawberry mint lemonade from Chelsea Market & Café. They have a great drink selection to cool off, especially since summer is in full swing in Manila.

If you’re looking for the perfect breakfast…
Look no further, Breakfast at Antonio’s in Tagaytay is THE spot. Literally everything on the menu is incredible. The chef uses only the best ingredients, mostly from his nearby farm. Everything is made from scratch, just like this corned beef served with garlic rice and fried eggs. You have to leave Manila to get to it but it’s more than worth the drive.

If you want something made just for you…
Try Project Pie. You get to customize your own pizza and watch them make it right in front of you. If you’re not feeling creative, you can just order off the menu. Plus they have southern-style sweet tea, which I’ve never found anywhere else in the Philippines.

If you’re craving something sweet…
Go to one of the many Café Breton branches and order a “La Pinay”. It’s one of my favorite desserts ever and a must-try. It’s a dessert crêpe filled with Philippine mangoes (the best in the world), drizzled with chocolate sauce and served hot with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pure decadence.

If you’re looking for the perfect gift…
Order a box of cookies from Bad Cookie. I was introduced to these amazing cookies by my aunt. They’re super rich and satisfying. So far I’ve only tried Cheeseoreosorous, an oreo cheesecake cookie, and I’m addicted. I can’t wait to try more of their amazing flavors so if anyone wants to send some my way, feel free!

Happy Eating!