BUTAO

Before this year ends, include sipping the best bowl of Japanese ramen in your winter bucket list! This deliciously slow-cooked pork bone soup may be added of squid ink, pork meat and boiled egg for an experience like no other.

My Black King with a side dish of slices of shoulder butt
and 1 whole Japanese marinated boiled egg.

I've been longing to taste this quite famous Butao Ramen and this year marks my first time to do this. At first, I thought the name just sounded so funny. Seeing its odd "black" color from the Instagram photos and that of friends, I found it interesting. It heightened my curiosity on how it becomes most sought after as a night of drinking ends in Lan Kwai Fong. 

For a HK$95 a bowl, it's amazing to have a feel of putting together preferred spices, flavour, and type of noodles. Basically, here is a list of the add-ons and the price it comes with as you rediscover yourself listening to your own preferences to further enrich your soup.

I preferred Black King over all the choices because squid ink always gives this distinct flavour that makes anything naturally robust with seafood zest. It gives a sweet follow thru to a mouthful serving so it's an explosion and a fusion rolled into one. It came to a point that my soup ended a bit salty though after eating up the noodles so I didn't finish the rest of my soup anymore.

The shoulder butt gave my palate rest from the tangy consistency of the black soup and the marinated egg was boiled perfectly. It got a good lava flow as I opened the egg which smoothly folded into my soup. Ahhhh.... even thinking of it makes me miss it so much.

This is an amazing feel of Japan since they aimed to satisfy their customers not only thru their food but also thru the ambiance and the people. They greeted us in Niponggo and the interior had private booths where people may enjoy eating their ramen even if their alone comfortably. 

Located at 69 Wellington St., Central, it was the perfect place to get our stomachs filled before hitting the streets of Lan Kwai Fong for a drink instead of checking it out after.

This particular branch is quite smaller than the one in Causeway Bay and Tsim Sha Tsui so expect to be in line for a table. Parking available is just street parking and do know that you can only pay cash upfront. Tea and tap water comes free with your meal. Price range starts from HK$98-120 for every meal. Take Exit D2 as you reach Hong Kong/Central Station if you want to experience Butao Ramen. Walk up to Lan Kwai Fong but turn right to Wellington (it comes before Lan Kwai Fong St.). For further details directions wise, click here. It may be around 10-15 minutes walk from Exit D2. They are open from 11:00am to 11:00pm daily. More of the details about this restaurant in their website: www.butaoramen.com. 

Taken outside the restaurant...
So mark this look from the outside
as you search it along Wellington St.
It stands on the right side as you walk up
Wellington.

Trivia:

Here are some of the interesting information I stumbled upon as I researched about the Butao ramen.

1. “Japanese people are very particular about creating their own dishes, so each ramen shop has different soup, noodles and ingredients,” says Masaki Hirata, executive director of the Japan National. - http://www.scmp.com/magazines/48hrs/article/1218475/rockin-ramen

  - Read about this article further. It was written last 2013 when a ramen fiesta was held here in Hong Kong. It's very informative. 

2. The "Limited King", one of the Butao Ramenchoices is a limited special edition of their chefs which is just randomly put together within the day. It's for the daring and the adventurous foodies. - www.openrice.com

3. The Butao Ramen restaurant in Central only has 24 seats. - www.openrice.com

4. There's actually a ramen museum that was put up in Yokohama in 1994. - www.wikipedia.com

5. Nissin's Foods' founder and chairman was a Taiwanese-Japanese named Momofuku Ando who invented the instant noodles after the World War II. The noodle soup was introduced to Japan over a century ago from China. But ironically, the instant ramen had become the greatest Japanese invention of the 20th century according to the Japanese poll as it came in variety as far as being edible just by adding boiled water. - www.wikipedia.com

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RICE BAR

There is one thing about owning the Filipino palate. It is distinct and confident. It is a fusion of so many cultures which fires up its limitless potential in creating and discovering a new taste for a lot to enjoy.

For my birthday month, I recently visited Los Angeles in pursuit of additional learning in writing. But I was blessed to also make an interview happen with a former classmate in primary school who owns Rice Bar located at 419 7th St., Los Angeles, CA 90014, USA.

The last time I got hold of him was when he was pursuing a career in Biology following his parents' steps whom all varsity players owe their lives following an injury at the University of Santo Tomas since they are both doctors. Back when we were barely teenagers, Charles would invite our group of friends to play football at their garden but little did he know, I was actually looking forward to sitting down, taking a relaxing moment over pastries at their house and a glass of delicious orange juice. I don't know what's in that juice but it was like no other. My childhood days was so fun because of the casual play time at their home.

And then I came across an article featuring his food and I was struck in awe. Because it was such a huge shift. And I couldn't be prouder that he stood up for what he really is called to do. As I aim to do a feature successful entrepreneurs whom I personally know, I thought I had to know his story and above all, taste the food.

Rice Bar stood simply between a convenience store and a jewellery shop. This 275-square-foot wide space transforms Charles' memory of food from home cooked by their helper back in the Philippines into life. As he made us taste familiar dishes sparkled with his own magic, it represents the typical dining experience in the Philippines, particularly in Manila. The L shaped bar holds 7 yellow stools offering a what-you-see-is-what-you-get vibe. It's the typical home setting in a kitchen. Imagine when you would wake up early and go to the kitchen and your mom would ask you, "Would you want to have something to eat?". As soon as you say yes, mom would instantly be pacing back and forth in preparation as you sit and wait by the counter. You make casual talk and then you get hold of the comfort food just as how you want it to be. That's it! That's how I felt looking at my childhood friend prepare Rice Bar's bests.

Pork Longganisa
is Philippines' own sausage...

My sister and I had a struggle in choosing because we actually liked everything there is in the menu. There's just the two of us and her baby so, we opted for the two dishes we haven't tasted in a long time. And that we would just try to critic by sharing both of our orders to each other.

The home made Pork Longganisa was prepared sweet and spicy with pickled vegetables and garlic crumbs. This is her ultimate favourite since when we were young. Atop the garlic rice, are the pork longganisa and a sunny egg. This is one of the famous breakfast sets that you would encounter in the Philippines. And we missed this terribly. Usually, there would be vinegar on the side to tickle your senses and highlight the kicking spice of the pepper enriched sausage.

On the other hand, I ordered for Bisteg Tagalog, also a favourite of both my sister's and mine. And it certainly exceeded my expectation. You see, here in Hong Kong, calamansi is seldom used in cooking. They use it for its fragrant properties and to drive away mosquitoes but Chef Charles knew far better to use it in cooking this special dish. Soy Marinated Black Angus beef is pan seared with red onions, squeezed of Calamansi and is completed with Kalinga Unoy (sun dried rice). It is a struggle to  find this authentic taste in Hong Kong and it's funny how after all this years, I had to be reminded of that homey feel it comes with.

My sister and I turned into hyenas because it was late lunch already at that time and we only went for an hour of parking 2 blocks away from Rice Bar. For a moment, we felt like we were in a turn-turo, a convenient eatery, in the Philippines since my younger sister and I had a lot of moments eating in one when we were in college. To the tune of famous Filipino bands like Parokya ni Edgar, Eraserheads and Bamboo, we munched our food all the way and were given a treat of Tinolang Manok by the chef and were welcomed to a sauce counter where the patis, suka, and toyomansi were readily available.

Dishes of decent size at a
prize range of
US$9 up.

Tinolang Manok is a chicken ginger soup that is complimented by green papaya and some pechay (Tagalog term for Chinese cabbage). After a good hearty meal, desserts are available in the form of home made rice crispies in vanilla, lime and marshmallow and the one I missed the most was Iced Buko. This place explodes of everything that is familiar yet each dish is infused with fresh presentation ideas. I took in the rest of my food with Rice Bar's Stumptown Cold Brew.

It's such a great way to get hold of Chef Charles since he is roaming right in front of you minding other orders and cooking at the same time so I took my chance. Watch this clip for a general idea of Rice Bar's vibe.

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT CHEF CHARLES' JOURNEY

So many write ups had been written about Charles rise from being a humble culinary student to becoming executive chef at 23. He was brave enough to chase his dreams that no matter what obstacle he had faced, he was head on to fulfilling them.

He was studying Biology to follow his parents' footsteps of being in the medical field but he wanted a different kind of expectation from him so he discovered his own niche. He saw himself being broke yet wanting to fulfill a career in the culinary arts. He never saw that as an obstacle. His experiences run from Ritz Carlton in Half Moon Bay to Restaurant Guy Savoy in Las Vegas to French Laundry (awarded the best restaurant in the world twice) to a San Jose family-run bistro to finally in Patina. If you would see the flow, it is interestingly diverse because of his hunger for a perspective.

In Patina, he got trained by Executive Chef Tony Esnault for 2 years. Patina, the fine dining restaurant hall in Disney hall's gorgeous silvery box had him cooking for 4 years. Eventually, he succeeded his mentor as the Executive Chef at the age of 30. At 32, he opened up Rice Bar and at 33, Charles' blessings continue to pour as he informs us that his son was 4 days old. And he was very happy about it that he had special treats on the house for these people.

"Hey guys! I just had a son and because of that, I have something for you all!"

I am more than proud of him in going all the way into creating what he can call his. Way to go Charles! You inspire us all!

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SO THAI SO GOOD

Looking for a good Thai restaurant? Tsing Yi got "So Thai So Good" and it lives to its name with their not just decorative dishes but also flavourful ones that will surely take you aback. One rainy night, my husband was craving for something explosive in the mouth without letting go of what's familiar, particularly, seafood. His palate's cravings were not disappointed in coming to this place.

Maritime Square, situated at 33 Tsing King Road is the first mall in Hong Kong to adopt an ocean  and navigation design theme for its interior. It is a home of 150 shops and on the 3rd floor of this 500,000 square feet mall is where  "So Thai So Good" is located.


As you reach the mall via the Tsing Yi MTR station, you will not miss the dainty restaurant on the third because it exudes a homey feel that can capture a passerby's interest. Because of how simple the colors are and how the price of their food is readily available to be checked out by the entrance, it becomes attractive to  people from different walks of life. I like how it's clean, it's different from the rest of the restaurants and that the decorative pots are in Tiffany Blue. Fancy!

Pai Thai in Tamarind Sauce with River Prawn - HK$85

More than the decor though is the food. To start off, that stormy night (hence my rain boots and extra jacket in Summer), they had a buy one, take one on any yogurt smoothie which was fantastic with the Poly boys' taste. It's refreshing and milky sweet. This aided the spicy 'Pai Thai' in Tamarind Sauce with River Prawn that I ordered. As we all know, milk soothes a burnt tongue faster than anything. So, this was just a perfect match. Some of the hit flavours were blueberry, mango, strawberry, banana hazelnut, citron, green apple, peach, mango coconut, chocolate and banana. It's interesting how it came in bottles of fresh milk because it gives it a rustic ranch plating. It looks clean and classy too.

Cardoman Galangal Beef - HK$85

The Cardamon Galangal Beef served sizzling hot was also a bit spicy but the meat was very tender and tasty. The vegetables were served fresh but cooked. It came with a serving of rice and I believe with an additional cup of rice, it can serve two people. May I suggest that you share as a group with all of these orders because pretty sure, it can serve more than one.

One of us wanted to try the fried pork knuckle
served over the rice but my husband and I died
as this dish came. It was that good.

It's simple but the fish was meaty, juicy and sweet. It came with a spicy fish sauce that took us back to our honeymoon days in Phuket. And that being said, with "So Thai So Good"'s aim of bringing East dishes to combine with Western taste and decor, we took it with a light heart and a full tummy with two thumbs up with everything that we ordered with a reasonable prize.

From the appetisers, down to their desserts, it's promising enough for another definite visit. The cafe restaurant is open from 11am to 11pm, separate from the closing hours of other shops in Maritime Square. A heads up for foodies who may want to try this that they could get crowded during peak hours. With a seating capacity of  only 90, expect that you will line up during lunch and dinner times.

Home-made potato wedges
with Cheese and chilli mayo

So Thai So Good is one of the 30 restaurants representing cuisines from the Mediterranean, Korea, Southeast Asia and China that King Parrot Group had put up. Established in 1992, they aim to give quality food, excellent service and beautifully themed and designed ambience for an exquisite dining experience. King Parrot Group has been the leading company in providing best themed restaurants all around Hong Kong with 23 years of experience in the business.

Check out this gem after checking out Bershka, Zara or Uniqlo for a unique blend of Thai and Western fusion cuisine with home made coffee and bread for a finale.


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CRISOSTOMO

Secondary school in the Philippines opens to a lot of discoveries. Biology, the Iliad and the Odyssey, Chemistry, Balagtasan (Poetic Competition), Citizen Army Training (CAT), Music, and Physics to name a few. These are some of the most memorable lessons I've learned during my time. But the most unforgettable one for me, was studying two of the greatest novels written by our national hero, Jose P. Rizal, entitled, "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo."

These two books were written to stir patriotism amongst the Filipino people to fight for their civil rights against the Spaniards when they colonised the Philippines. In their own homeland, Filipinos had become slaves and were called to become rebels against the white dominance because of the way they were mistreated. Religion and status were hailed. And all of these controversies were reflected thru these 2 books. "El Filibusterismo" ("The Filibustering", a.k.a "The Reign of Greed"), the sequel to "Noli Me Tangere" (Touch Me Not), was more aggressive of its pursuit of a revolution as compared to the romantic and hopeful attack of the latter book.

Both books' protagonist is Crisostomo Ibarra, only at the second book, he was in disguise to a name of Simoun. And because of this character's remarkable love for the country and admirable patriotism, fast forward to the new generation called "now", a restaurant had been put up to honour "Crisostomo".

Tinana ni Tiburcio
Tinana plus salted egg wrapped
by the crispy lumpia wrapper.

Coming from a holiday vacation from Pico De Loro Beach Resort and Country Club, we headed at Crisostomo for dinner. The restaurant featured that big space that you would see in ancient Spanish houses. Wooden staircase, molave dining tables and wooden floors. Walls are plain white and there is a dirty ice cream cart that is part of the dessert treat.

My family and I took over the whole second floor almost (we are a big family) and on the way up, a huge painting of a "Sisa" or "Maria Clara" faces the last flight. It almost looked scary but as you look closely, it's almost a sad young woman in the picture.

If you have read both novels, you would appreciate the dishes named after the characters in the stories. It is very creative that they had come up with a fusion of your lola's old recipes with the trending flavours and plating of today.

This is such a hype amongst Balikbayans since it offers a one-of-a-kind experience to its customers. It is basically the two novels come to life. And for a fair price these Filipino delicacies were offered in the menu:

Lengua Laruja (Braised ox tongue with mushroom gravy), Sinigang Gomez (Pork Ribs in Tamarin Soup), Corregidor (Dinuguan a la Crisostomo, a savoury stew of pig's blood, finger chilli and garlic and vinegar), Don Rafael (Classic Crispy Pata), Calamares ni Tales (Fried Golden Calamaris with Garlic Mayo and Sweet Chilli Sauce) and Maria Elena (Kangkong with Lechon Kawali Chips). These were some of the viands we tried. But the winner of the night was the Cervantes (Stir fried vermicelli with pork leg and chestnuts topped with quail eggs).

My daughter loved her fresh coconut juice. My lovely cousins and I ordered familiar Filipino drinks like Iced Tea but they made it with a touch of Pandan leaves. There's also one of my favourites, Sago Gulaman, Four Seasons and Pineapple Juice. Pineapple juice may sound ordinary but Philippine pineapple juice exudes a distinct flavourful freshness as you sip it.

It was yet another fun time with my family as I get together with them only during special occasions. It was one of my cousin's wedding that's why we went home to Manila. And this was the last night my daughter and I had to stay in my hometown. So, my auntie brought us to the Macapagal branch at the Blue Bay Walk, Macapagal Avenue Corner EDSA, Libertad, Pasay City, Metro Manila.

It was nice that Crisostomo makes every meal
memorable by making a momentous shot available
as a souvenir for their customers to avail when eating in their restaurant.

We reached the place at around 9pm and we felt perfectly catered to right before we needed to clear out by 11pm. (Restaurant hours are from 11am-11pm). As it gains attention from foodies, it gets crowded at lunch and dinner time. May I suggest that you make reservations by contacting these hotlines:

Landline: (63-2) 8326592

Mobile: +63917-8262535

Other branches stand at Alabang, Eastwood, Fairview, Katipunan, Newport and Nuvali, Laguna.

I highly recommend that if you're around these areas, take some time in enjoying a memorable meal at Crisostomo. I rate this restaurant 5 stars without hesitation and staff happily serves the customers. They are confident in recommending the best in the house and they are helpful in taking photos of your family for a good remembrance and Instagram post!

____________________________

Trivia: 

Crisostomo is one of Chef Florabel Co-Yatco's Restaurants. With an aim of making fine-dining non-intimidating to Filipinos with different wallet demands, she continuously seeks an enthusiastic team in making this happen. "Food makes people come together, therefore it should be pleasurable and enjoyed by all", according to her. Some of her must-try restaurants apart from Crisostomo are: Corazon, Elias, Felix, Sisa's Secret and her very first one, Florabel. She opened it in 2005 after working for Via Mare being an exclusive chef at a young age of 23.

Florabel started showing a promising career as a chef by baking and selling home made cookies to her classmates and families during her teenage years. Like any other successful entrepreneur, she pursued her dream by staying focused and believing in her craft.

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SOMEWHERE OVER THE RAINBOW CHEESE

In flight magazines work wonders. With each of their featured stories, I get hold of information from a lot of places in a jiffy without spending a penny. And as I went over Cebu Pacific's Smile Magazine today, I came across an article that featured the rainbow grilled cheese sandwich that had gone trending in instagram. And I knew I had to try it!

Slowly, I am getting fond of our new home here in Tsuen Wan. 10 minutes via shuttle bus to the train station leads to a wide array of great eateries, restaurants and noodle houses. And 5 minutes away from Exit A there's Kala situated at G/F, 4-6 Tsuen Hing Path, Tsuen Wan. 

KALA Toast is recently the most sought after foodie experience by a lot of tourists and local residents alike because of its unique presentation of their grilled cheese sandwiches. It comes in rainbow colours! How is this possible?

As I had experienced this rich grilled sandwich myself, called KALAful Toast, I have observed 4 colours blending in altogether. There's yellow, green, blue and pink/light purplish shade. So it made me curious how they are able to do this.

Four kinds of cheeses - mozzarella, cheddar, emmental and gruyere, are flavoured with basil (which makes a part green), lavender (which makes a part blue), tomato (for the pink part). When melted altogether, they make up the rainbow colours as seen below. These cheeses are directly sourced from Europe. Their toasted breads are crystallised with butter that's why most of the customers find it oily. Don't worry, there's paper to seep that oil in.

For a price of HK$42, it is worth a try. I must say the lavender flavour was really subtle considering the colour that it throws out in the sandwich. The basil was also barely there but the colour green is pretty set. The tomato neutralises everything giving it an aroma of a pizza. I suppose it's alright since I would prefer the original tasting grilled sandwich at all costs. Lavender and basil may alter it in certain ways that I may not like anyway. Besides the fact that it is delightful to the eyes, it's quite selfie worthy too. Other out-of-this world flavours are also available. Here are the recommended must-try's:

Choco-banana Snowman

Green Tea Sandwich

Fresh Durian and Cheese Sandwich

KALA Grilled Cheese Specialist is open from 12nn to 12mn. And can be contacted about its services thru 3706-5432. Sandwiches can be availed only by cash and octopus. Parking can be done at your own risk within the area. And wifi is available for customers.

I expected tables that I could dine in but they had to remove it since Tsuen Hing Path is technically owned by the government. So, it's illegal to actually consider it as a place for personal gains. I am truly hoping that they'd expand to a place where people can sit down and take time in eating their orders.

If you're around the area, pass by and give yourself the four sinful cheeses I know you crave for. Hong Kong Summer is hot and rainy but there's always a rainbow in a bursting grilled cheese sandwich here in Tsuen Wan!

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SILVERMINE BEACH RESORT

Hong Kong is a melting pot of tourists, businessmen, overseas workers, foreigners and locals.  It is the city that buzzes even at its unholy hour. It exudes an extraordinary energy to each person walking on it. Because of its power, I realised Hongkies, including myself, have one thing in common. After a day's work, they crave for a getaway. Last May, we eyed Silvermine Beach Resort in Mui Wo.

Hong Kong is known for its fast paced lifestyle. When you live here, you adapt to it subconsciously. It is proven by how its development could be compared to a concrete jungle since it is made up of towering apartments, sky-high buildings lining up the harbour and busy high tech mass transit railways in between. Despite the fast modernisation of Hong Kong, it is still remarkable as to how they preserve their customs by putting it into practice. Their rich culture can never be undermined as they do celebrate festivals the traditional way still that are solely their own. Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival and the Dragon Boat Festival.

Ultimately, Dragon Boat Festival is one of the most prestigious events held in Hong Kong. Supporting my husband, last May 29 and the rest of the Team Mushu, we were able to experience a staycation at Silvermine Beach Resort in Mui Wo. And in this post, I will talk about what to expect of the resort.

LOCATION:

this is the receiving area and this is where
the front desk is located

Rowing for the Dragon Boat Races is quite physically demanding as I had my own experience of a winning race with Team Mushu two years ago. My husband wanted to have a good rest before and after and thought of a good way to deal with it. And we researched for the best accommodation for our family. There popped up Silvermine Beach Resort.

Mui Wo's tranquil location is highlighted by a simple 3 storey, 33 year old hotel that faces a vast beach upfront and extends to a mountain view at the back. Built in 1983, I have observed that the renovation last 2014 had did it good since the doors use upscale technology.

The colours of the halls are bright and it had a modern feel. I loved the way its walls were in pastel colours. It lifts up the mood and most of all, I love how the terrace faces the vast horizon of Mui Wo Beach. As I sat down and sipped my coffee, I looked straight out, and I felt a hopeful energy surging in.

a terrace where I find it very good to have coffee at
while looking straight out in the horizon

Silvermine Beach Resort is situated at DD2, Lot 648, Silvermine Bay, Mui Wo, Lantau Island, Hong Kong, Hong Kong. It is surrounded with good seafood, Italian and Chinese restaurants. Unfortunately, taxis cannot go near the hotel but bus stations and the pier make it accessible to public transport. A school, a wet market, a police station, and a park  surrounds the area so retirees, writers, or anybody who needs a getaway, can find serenity, satisfaction and comfort in Silvermine.

FACILITIES:

My daughter checks out the place.

We went for an Italian dinner
which was a good 15 minute walk
from the hotel.

During our stay, the room had a water boiler complete with the tea set and a huge bottle of mineral water. The usual give away of hotels I've gone to had two small bottles only. The refrigerator was surprisingly empty. Don't expect any canned refreshments or bottle shots. Room service is available which is my husband's favourite thing to have but this time, we opted to eat outside and try one of the restaurants around the area.

The room is fully furnished. It got a working desk, a wardrobe closet and a huge bed that is the most comfortable I've ever laid on together with my Samoan husband and my not so little girl. It's bigger than a king size bed I promise you. A bedside table suffices it with an access to all the lights which I find very handy since I didn't have to move my baby away from my arms in turning them off come sleeping time.

My friend helped me book the sea view room that opens up to the beach where I had the best view in watching my husband's races from. I loved the idea that the room can be covered entirely from the sun if you want to take an afternoon nap and when you're ready to face the morning sun, the rays are allowed to uplift the entire room in an instant as you raise the blinds.

The windows that I watched some of the races from when it was too hot.
It was raining that day hence the skies were not very clear.

It is complete with a flat screen TV but there was no HDMI cable available to borrow. So as for entertainment, I greatly relied on my laptop since most of the shows on TV are in Chinese. Their internet goes prepaid. You have to buy a 24 hour connection that I found a little bit of too much for the price of HK$100 each time.

That is the huge bed that gave us comfort for 2 days.
'Nuff said!

The bathroom is complete with the basic amenities. The bedside table holds two pairs of disposable

slippers. Drawers contained a blowdryer and a bible. There's an iron and an iron stand for your convenience and a phone that is only restricted to local calls. I'm sure arrangement can be made for it to have an access internationally but may I suggest for you to use the internet instead if you are to avail of it anyway since charge is per minute for an international call.

how the bedside table
looks like

The outdoor swimming people and the kiddie pool is opened seasonally. This year, it will be open to guests daily from May 1 to October 31, from 9am to 10pm only. As Hong Kong is known for having unpredictable weather, once thunderstorm is officially hoisted, the swimming pools will automatically  be closed. Nonetheless, the fitness centre and the sauna and steam room will remain at function daily from 9am to 10pm as well.

The resort encourages guests to engage in outdoor activities to take advantage of its pride, the natural ambiance it stands from. Biking, hiking, swimming are but a few of what's available. But at the time we were there, we enjoyed the dragon boat races very much because of its intensity, energy and the camaraderie between the teams. 

The hotel has its own Blue Horizon Cafe that offers a great deal that goes: you choose any main course from over 10 scrumptious meals in the menu and you may be open to an eat all you can appetiser and dessert buffet. Their cakes are guaranteed home made but you may find their appetisers limited.

This is where they serve the breakfast also from 7am to 10pm. Variety is not that much. But I love how the place lights up every morning. After a sip of coffee, the surrounding neighbourhoods also instantly becomes lively. 

TRANSPORTATION:

Situated in the cultural part of Mui Wo, Silvermine Beach Resort can be reached in so many ways. Being 45 minutes away from the airport (via a cab), the hotel opens up to this scenery right away that's why the hotel doesn't have a drop off area for guests coming in riding a cab. That limitation goes for uber and gogovans as well. We rode a blue cab towards the hotel and it amounted around HK$180+.

It was a little bit of a hassle since I was with my weekend luggages, a stroller, and my baby and it was raining hard that day that we were going to check in. We had to walk towards the front by foot. There was no covered walk leading to the hotel.  There was no pavement to avoid the puddles nor to roll the luggages onto. It could've been a big help if those were present. Also, we had to ask from people where the hotel is as we got off the cab. I'm sure there was a sign but we could use a good big sign during a rainy day.

Mui Wo buses to and fro Tung Chung is available at a station located behind the hotel. This is for those who wanted to have an access to the MTR station. The schedule can be checked thru their website: www.silvermineresort.com. But the front desk has a posted schedule for everybody to see. Look for 3M as per public transport. Across the bus station is the blue taxi stand. So it's pretty accessible this way by land. You can check the fare for adults, kids, seniors and students by clicking here.

On the other hand, for a faster travel to the city, you can take the ferry. It costs HK$29/adult during the weekdays and then triple during the weekends. There's what they call the slow ferry which is a given. It usually takes longer to go to the city via this slow ferry than the other one but it's cheaper. 3 year olds and below are free. One way journey usually takes 30 minutes.

ACCOMODATION:

I like how tidy and well lit the halls are.

The hotel is composed of 128 rooms and the 3 storey hotel is secured with electronic doors. The halls are also secured with a main door in a way that only key holders have an access to in addition to each electronic door locks. Apart from the big bed and complete amenities, the comfort it brought to my family was fairly good.

the basic toiletries provided

The bathroom was comfortably spacious without any problems in its plumbing. It was kid friendly too with its anti-skid tiles and the sink counter is big enough to hold my make up kit and many more. I am just obsessive compulsive in terms of the toiletries I need but for a backpacker, it is truly sustaining with all the basics they provided.

There's a garden where my daughter had fun lingering in because of the swing. There are bikes that can be borrowed to go around town and a spa is available to guests starting from HK$280+ up.

Hotel policies include:

1. Check in time: 3:00 PM

2. Check out time: 12:00 PM (and then every extended hour will be charged HK$500)

3. Breakfast is from 7am - 10am.

4. Room rates are subject to 10% service charge.

5. If booking cancellation would be done 72 hours before the arrival date, no cancellation fee will be charged. But if the booking is cancelled within 72 hours (3 days) before the arrival date, one day of daily rental with the rack rate will be applied as late cancellation penalty.

Garden View

6. Room reserved or charged at discounted rate cannot be cancelled nor cannot be refunded.

7. Amendment of the booking within 72 hours before the arrival date is not allowed. One day of daily rental with the rack rate will be applied as late amendment penalty.

8. The booking can only be amended at least 72 hours before the arrival date. The change is subjected to the hotel's availability and the rate may be revised.

9. Room reserved or charged at discounted rate is non-amendable.

10. VALID HKID card or passport should be presented upon guest check-in.

11. In case of no show, Silvermine will charge first night room rental as a no show penalty.

12. All payment will need to be settled upon checking in.

13. Like any hotels, a deposit will have to be made apart from the rack rate paid upon checking in. At the time we availed of their Front Beach View room, the deposit amounted to HK$500 for the entire 2 nights stay we did.

DINING:

The hotel has the Seashore cuisine where breakfast is served daily from 7am to 10pm. Again, it can be accessed only by the guests with a room key so that's how they track those who are entitled to breakfast. Almost all of the accommodation fee includes breakfast anyways. So it's unlikely that safety would be compromised since I observed leniency on who comes in and out of the restaurant.

We just had to document my daughter's face.

I find the selection pretty limited when the ambiance completely gives the bed and breakfast vibe. I wasn't really eager to eating what I usually see everyday at work. But it seems that that's the only thing available. The view is spectacular though and their coffee was tasty. My daughter loved every minute of breakfast because the restaurant was spacious and well lit. It elated her mood.

The Seashore cuisine restaurant is open to an all-day-dining from 7am to 12midnight. They offer Afternoon Tea Set and Saturday BBQ buffet. It aims to cater to each guest's cravings by offering Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, Western and fusion dishes in the menu.

me and my friend Joanne before she hits off to the races

When you step out of the restaurant to the terrace, the Blue Horizon cafe awaits where we had lunch during the day of the races. Probably since it was raining the day before, we were eaten too by bugs. Because as soon as the weather became warmer, Hong Kong releases these nasty ones.

Yes, we're being attacked by bugs right about this time.

Lastly, the Bayview lounge offers soothing music, relaxing ambiance and a wide selection of international beer. It has a bar for guests to enjoy and a vibe that will help you unwind.

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES:

Swimming is the number one suggested activity of the hotel. The beach is inviting to tourists who would want to have a tan, a walk or just to get inspired. In the evening, a herd of carabaos come by to take some rest on the cool sand.

Rental bikes and maps are available for those who want to do mountain biking, trekking and hiking. Non-Motorised water sports are also available such as kayaking, canoeing, and stand up paddle surfing. At the moment we were in the area, the dragon boat races had kept everybody preoccupied.

Snorkeling, boating and scuba diving can be arranged privately but own personal equipments should be brought in.

PERSONAL CRITIC:

My daughter, securing a cozy space all to herself the moment we
stepped inside the room.

In general, for the location, facilities and service, I truly feel that the booking fee per night is too pricey. HK$700/night without any shuttle service privilege, no wifi, and no change of toiletries when we stayed there for 2 days. 

The cleaners also took a lot of time in cleaning up the room during the morning when we had breakfast. I was expecting that by the time we get back from a good brekky and a walk (most especially if I had left the door sign that says, "Please clean up room"), the room would be cleaned up. But to my disappointment, it wasn't so I had to call downstairs for the refill on tissue, toiletries and new towels.

When we availed of the semi buffet, we were asking for help with the bugs. Unfortunately, when we asked for assistance, they didn't have any form of mosquito repellant. They just shrugged their shoulders to us and just said, you can eat inside if you're in any way uncomfortable here. We really wanted to enjoy the sunset while eating by the terrace. It didn't happen for me and my friends.

The hotel policies was a little bit too much when they tried to impose it most especially the HK$500/additional hour if you check out late but in the end, it was pretty kind of them to be flexible  in consideration. A friend of ours was tied up with the races at the moment that they were supposed to check out. They understood the situation he was in when he explained so he was not charged.

For an overall rating, I give it a 6.5 out of 10. The place was nicely renovated, awarded Resort Hotel of the Year 2016 by GHM Guangdong, Hong Kong, Macau General Hotel Managers' Society and most of all, feels secure but I'm sure it still needs a lot of improvement with their guest service. Though there's a competition with the carabaos in the afternoon for some space at the beach, it is the best way to get close to nature anyway. So it's all good. Hygiene wise whether it's alright to lay down on the beach without dealing with any s#!+ on the sand, or even to swim where the carabaos swim, that I can't guarantee. The good things about this experience would be, my baby felt great about our stay, my husband got enough rest and we're altogether in experiencing Silvermine Beach Resort.

Dinner at La Pizzeria, Mui Wo

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FOOD TRIP

Filipino overseas workers always consider finding authentic Filipino restaurants around here in Hong Kong like finding a gem.  There are just a few. That's why, when they find a good one, words spread out like wild fire. A couple of nights ago, my friend had flown from the Philippines to attend a convention. We took her out for dinner and agreed on Food Trip, in Jordan. It was just my first time to eat there but I would rate it up as 8 because of the air-conditioned extension at the 1st floor across the building of the original location. They had to have that extra space because they're food is so good that their customers are not limited to Filipinos only.

With a hospitable team of servers, it was like eating at home in the Philippines with the vibe of positivity and fun over a good delicious feast. Filipinos are known for their warmth in welcoming guests and visitors and this is practiced in Food Trip. From work, my friends had indeed chosen a great place worth of my money and my time. I didn't have to go to work but I had a fair share of hunger with the rest. I expected and believed that Food Trip would exceed my expectations when I heard their description ... and it certainly did, ... even more.

FOOD TRIP'S LOCATION:

Situated in Shop J, G/F, No.2 Saigon St., Jordan, it may be accessed in several ways. You can order UBER and/or a cab to take you there but the fastest, cheapest and easiest way is the train. From exit B3 of the Jordan station, Food Trip is just but a 5-minute walk. For people who love exploring and who love long walks, it is worth it to put an effort finding it if you're around Mong Kok.

Jordan is known for its Temple street for shopping segue to its street dining experience right after. What Food Trip's edge is that they are able to cater to Filipinos longing of a good authentic Filipino meal. A few restaurants strive in cooking dinuguan, sinigang, and tinola just to be called a Filipino restaurant but the taste is "not quite" the same as in Food Trip. In here, you could tell that the chef got that gift of tongues,... and more. So, with that patriotic touch yet natural talent, Food Trip stays jam packed during weekdays (We went there on a Monday) too. And we had to eat at the room they reserve for big a number of people. Meaning, apart from the small corner pertaining to the picture above, there's an extension across the street that is more comfortable for everybody. So don't worry that you may have to wait a long time to settle. Before you know it, they have a table ready for you.

Halo-halo is an original
Philippine dessert. 

THE FOOD

We had ordered viands to be shared and the garlic rice had made them extra zesty at every bite. One of us had eaten dinner already so she ordered the infamous halo-halo for dessert.

The rest of us couldn't resist the temptation to get Lechong Kawali, Pancit Bihon, Dinuguan, Tinola, Karekare, Inihaw na Pusit, Bicol Express, Lumpiang Shanghai, Crispy Pata and of course, Chicken Pork Adobo. If you're a Filipino, you would understand how meticulous each dish is in terms of taste, ingredients and meat. These are the most sought after in the Philippines for every overseas worker because these are delicacies that are solely owned by Filipinos.

Overall, with each dish good for 2-3 people, the price was worth it! The total was just around 1,500+ and there's 10 of us. That means, it was HK$150 each more or less. Let's just put a range of HK$100-200/person if you are eager to go alone or with a friend. Some are quite familiar of how it goes around Food Trip, so they ordered in advance. By the time we got there, we didn't have to wait so long for the food to come. To do the same, contact the number: 2332-3643 and just let them know that you want to pre-order.

Here are some of the dishes that we have tried:

my order: Pancit Bihon

Tinolang Manok

Crispy Pata with Garlic Rice

AMBIANCE

It is quite common in the Philippines that mini-convenience stores, bakeries and small eateries are put up in street corners. Because of this kind of setup, local people catch up with their gossip while they get to finish their drink or smoke and those who stay in dormitories while finishing college are able to eat a complete meal for a very affordable price. As you can see on the very picture above, Food Trip is set up this way. So that for me, reminds me so much of how it is back in Manila.

With the secluded extension, they designed it with banderitas which signifies festivities in the Philippines and the walls are decorated with paintings of things that you would only see in the Philippines. The Mayon Volcano, the first painting from the left, is one of the majestic tourist spots in Bicol, Philippines. Next is a painting of a jeepney, the most common mode of transportation in Manila and Taal, where a volcano lies inside the mouth of another volcano, is featured with carabaos surrounding the crater, a farmer's best friend in the Philippine provinces that helps in toiling the soil of the plantation.

The music background of the room had brought us back for a couple of hours to our youth with familiar Filipino jams back in the 90's. The toilet was a sanctuary. It was huge and was very homey. Super tidy, you question if it's really for public use.

ACCESSIBILITY

You have to park at your own risk around the area, it's situated in a not so busy street so I think you won't have a problem finding space.

Jordan station is accessible thru the red and green line. So whether you are coming from the Kowloon or Hong Kong or New Territories, it's pretty much the same distance come what may.

Food Trip is open from 6pm to 5am. And in terms of payment, cash and eps (thru Unionpay) can be done. There's a lot of ATM's in the area so if you need it, it's pretty much accessible. Open Rice had set the budget to as low as HK$50/person. This can actually be given justice by their set meals. Lately, they have had a lot of requests to open earlier so they have changed it to Mon-Thursday, 2pm to 5am then Friday-Sunday, 12pm to 5am.

Any updates that may come could be checked out in their own Facebook Account under the name: Foodtrip Bedana's Filipino Restaurant. Just search this one and you'll get hold of the latest about Food Trip!

Kain tayo!

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