Saturday, June 13, 2009

Lennon Juice











If you thought that the Lennons left a footprint only in the music world, think again.

The union of John Lennon and Yoko Ono was not merely an inspiration for the song entitled "The Ballad of John and Yoko" which was the last #1 single in the UK chart but also a trend setter in the arena of love: Eurasian marriages.

There is just something interesting in mixed marriages, the blending of the East and the West. It concocts cocktails of creativity that put the whole world in stupor. Take for example, John and Yoko's Bed-in for Peace campaign. What could have inspired this couple to use "bed scenes" as a jumping board for a peace campaign?

John and Yoko can be an inspiration to many, including restaurateurs. Take for example, John And Yoko in Greenbelt 5, Makati.


The Japanese sushi presented in this cyber-chic restaurant, with interiors seemingly inspired by eclectic restos in Soho, New York and shades of red that appear to arise from the Nippon flag, give that feeling of being in the WEast - neither West nor East but somewhere in between. It is an enclave unknown to man yet a mystery wanting to be uncovered. It lures the taste buds and beckons passers by to come and experience this ethereal Japanese dining experience.

A must-try is the New York Fried Maki (see second photo above). This is so Soho!!! The sheet-thin crunch of the batter-coated nori wrapper around the sumptuous sushi can give the mouth a sensei-tion like no other. Another favorite is their Tuna Salad - the right lightness and the subtle crunch to start off a fabulous dinner. End it with the signature John And Yoko Blue Iced Tea and Red Iced Tea...and be inspired with the creative Lennon juice!













Monday, April 27, 2009

Mary Had a Little Lamb, a Little Salmon...and a Little of Everything




I do not blame Mary. Who can resist a buffet table consisting of Grilled Lamb Spareribs, Salmon Carpaccio, Mango Tapioca, and so much more? Add to that a tiny corner for freshly cooked pasta with a sauce of your own choice: pesto, pomodoro, and carbonara. And of course, the wine!

Chef's Quarter, located at the 3rd level of SM Megamall Atrium, is definitely Mary's own palace of hidden wealth: a luxury of Western-infused dishes. Her own version of Open Sesame: dialing (63 2) 706-5336 for reservations.

The lamb spareribs are baked to perfection, with just enough tasteful grease to match the delectable meat. The Salmon Carpaccio is a must-try, with capers that add a sour note to the Salmon in a way that's very light and delightful. And the Mango tapioca - unforgettable! There are real sliced Mangoes with soft gel-like tapioca covered with a light syrup.


In one sitting, Mary can devour all the go, grow, and glow foods she can ever need! If she were only a man with a fiery temper, she would evolve into the Incredible Hulk in less than a minute. Or if she were a robot, she would be the tallest among the Transformers.

There is something about Mary - an innate desire to enjoy a feast ever so discreetly, with frequent visits to the buffet table using tiny plates, sashaying in her above-the-knee dress fitting her figure. One would wonder - where does all that food go?

And the question in one's mind really is...why is she not fat?

Here is a multiple choice.

1. Xenical.
2. Marie France.
3. Dr. Vicky Belo.
4. Lesofat.
5. Slimfast.
6. Herbalife.
7. Fitness First.
8. Slimmers World.
9. Post-Buffet Starvation Program
10. Walk.

Whatever she uses or does prior to, during, or after feasting on a mouth-watering buffet like the one in Chef's Quarter, nobody knows for sure.

One thing is certain - Mary has had and will continue to have a little of everything.

At wherelse but...Chef's Quarter.