Wooden Spoons & Muffin Tops

Blog Giveaway: Wooden Spoons & Muffin Tops x Fievre

Fievre, which translates to "fever" in English, is an online retail and wholesale shop that sells imported women's clothing. Given that the clothes are purchased abroad, you'll be surprised to find out that all the clothes are low-priced. You don't need to spend a lot to look fashionable!

One lucky reader will get the chance to win the orange tube peplum dress and the necklace.

All the steps stated below must be followed for your entries to be considered valid:

1. Like Wooden Spoons & Muffin Tops and Fievre on Facebook.

2. Follow Wooden Spoons & Muffin Tops and Fievre on Twitter and tweet this "@Wooden Spoons & Muffin Tops and Fievre are having a giveaway! Click here: http://ow.ly/g8u5T"

3. Be a member of my blog via Google Friend Connect (found on the right panel of my blog).

4. Share this photo on Faceook and include this caption, "@Wooden Spoons & Muffin Tops and Fievre are having a giveaway! Click here to join! http://woodenspoonsandmuffintops.blogspot.com/2012/12/blog-giveaway-wooden-spoons-muffin-tops.html" then tag 5 of your friends. All posts must be set to public.

Example: "@Wooden Spoons & Muffin Tops and Fievre are having a giveaway! Click here to join! http://woodenspoonsandmuffintops.blogspot.com/2012/12/blog-giveaway-wooden-spoons-muffin-tops.html" @friend1 @friend2 @friend3 @friend4 @friend5"

5. Leave a comment in the box at the end of this post with the following information: complete name, email address, twitter name and Facebook link of the shared photo.

Simple, yes? :)

The giveaway starts on December 18, 2012 and ends on December 31, 2012 at exactly 11pm. Giveaway is open to Philippine residents only.

One winner will be chosen via random.org

I check all the entries so please follow all the steps for me to consider your entries valid. :)

Oh and photo credit goes to my cousin Pauline Solano for making the beautiful poster! Thanks, Pau :)

Bienvenido a Guernica's Tapas Bar & Restaurant!

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I mentioned in my previous (outfit) post that I had dinner at Guernica's for my friend's birthday celebration and now I made a separate entry to talk about the food I had that evening. The Spanish restaurant has been operating for more than 5 decades now, way before I even existed as an embryo. Deemed to have the best paella in town, Guernica's Tapas Bar and Restaurant, has already established a name in the food business. It was my first time to hear about this restaurant so I did a little digging and found a brief background about how it came to be - the name Guernica's is actually the hometown of Senor Hemachea, founder of one of the first Spanish restaurants in the Philippines. It was then turned over to antique collector, Mr. Romeo Bauzon, who proceeded to make the business triumphant in serving delicious Spanish cuisine. The branch I dined in is located in Santana Grove along Sucat Road and sits comfortably in a crowd of other restaurants and shops.

It's been a while since I've seen my friends from high school. Well, the last time we saw each other was a couple months back but we make it a point to get together every so often just to catch-up. Our favorite scheme when it comes to gatherings always involves food. So I guess it's safe to say that everyone in our circle loves to eat. I mean, each of us would probably always be eating for 2 or 3 people. We are growing (?) kids after all. Anyway, enough of the jibber-jabber. Let's shift to more about the dinner, yes?

This is Zabeth or "Zaboga" as I like to tease her sometimes. We've been good friends since 4th year high school and I recall going to her house during her birthday and her mum would cook such palatable paella. This time though, both Zabeth and her dad celebrated their birthdays together (actually, it was more of a pre-celebration for her but conjoined celebrations are better than one!). Her dad is of Spanish descent and both her parents frequent Guernica's, which explains why they picked this venue to throw a party.

I could tell that this place was a family restaurant, where people gather to eat good food, listen to music and enjoy each other's company. They've got awesome service too. One of the main things that I look for in a good restaurant is how the staff interacts with their customers - not only were they pleasant and courteous, but they also projected a sense of ardency. Whilst eating, we were also serenaded by the restaurant's singers and even though most were focused on the food and the guests, I find it so admirable when people put their heart into entertaining a hungry crowd (literally). :)

I love buffet spreads! That's exactly why I was excited to fill my plate when I saw the different food lined-up on the buffet table. The entree I went for was their fried chicken coated with herbs with thin-cut fries on the side. The chicken was juicy and tender (no, this isn't my attempt to copy Jollibee's commercials) and the french fries added a nice touch to the meat. It was a combination of two of my favorite things - chicken and fries. So, going back for a second round was really not a question anymore.

Bread basket

Two words that spike my appetite? Garlic bread. Well, that and "unlimited food". There's just something about biting into the soft center of the bread and tasting all the flavors of the melted butter, garlic and herbs, accompanied by the crunch of its edges. I would have gotten a basket for myself so I could munch on them without minding anyone else around me, but you know, I can be bashful too.

Callos a la Madrilena

Ox tripes sauteed with Chorizo, Ham, Bacon and Garbanzos in a fresh tomato sauce.

Mixed Vegetables

I tried looking for the name of this pasta on their online menu but couldn't find it. :( BUT what I CAN tell you is what it tastes like. That's good enough for now...right? It's a fettuccini pasta cooked with a tomato base and topped with grilled chicken, olives and cheese. I liked how the tomato sauce wasn't sour nor was there too much of it. This is pretty much a meal on its own, what with the chicken, pasta and itsy-bisty vegetable bits.

Fruit Platter

I wasn't able to take photos of the lechon since the chafer was empty. *sniff* But after my second plate and more then 3 garlic breads, there it was...a refilled dish. I was already too full to have my fix. Drats.

After reading further about Guernica's on their main website and eating their food buffet-style, I can't help but look forward to try their paella! It is, after all, what they are known for. I browsed their online menu further and spotted several other dishes that I'd like to try. Perhaps I'll save the next few posts for my visit there! :)

Guernica's Tapas Bar & Restaurant

Santana Grove, Dr. A. Santos Ave.,

Sucat, Paranque City

Facebook page
Official website
Contact no.: (02) 720-5710

Christmas Is Coming

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Stella Margherita Online is the latest online store I have partnered with for my ongoing giveaway and I was so thrilled when I received the dress I picked straight from their October collection on their Facebook page! I've been saving this dress for a special occasion as I haven't really been able to go out due to the hectic schedule of exams at school that went on for weeks before the Christmas break began. So when my good friend Zabeth told me that she'd having a birthday dinner at Guernica's Tapas Bar & Restaurant, I didn't think twice about what to wear!

The Alexi dress from Stella Margherita both dainty and light. It's perfect for when you're in a rush to put an outfit together when your mind is just a big ball of clouds.

I paired the dress with an elegant neckpiece from Mademoiselle Manila.

I adore the Peter Pan collar on this dress! :)

Bag from Michael Kors

Pleats add flair to the red-orange dress.

This is my first time reviewing make-up on my blog mostly because I don't wear heavy make-up. I prefer the natural look. Whenever I go out, I just apply lip balm. But when Stella Margherita sent me this NYX lipstick (yes, cosmetics are also on their list of products), I was unusually excited to try it out! My lips chap easily so it's important that the lipstick I put on not only enriches my lips has a moisturizes it too and this item does both!

I have the Frapuccino shade and it suits me perfectly! There are, however, other shades that you might want to try out and see which one will fit you best. Perhaps you would like to go for a bolder look this holiday season? Check out Stella Margherita Online's cosmetic collection here.

Want to win the dress I'm wearing in this outfit post? Join my ongoing giveaway here! Last day of entries is on December 17, 2012. :)

Southern Dessert Stop: Larcy's Cupcakerycafe

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The first cupcake stop in the B.F. and Alabang area has finally opened! Passing by Aguirre Street every so often, the huge signboard with the words "Larcy's Cupcakery Cafe"was enough to intrigue residents and even those who just happen to drive by the area. A first of its kind, Larcy's Cupcakerycafe has just fed the cupcake trend even more by giving enthusiasts a chance to select a freshly baked cupcake on the spot, sit down, drink a nice cup of coffee or maybe pair it with a nice meal (they also offer savory dishes).

When it finally opened, my aunt suggested that we give it a try. Of course, I would never say no to dessert..or anything food-related for that matter. So on a sunny Sunday afternoon, we headed off to check out the newly opened cafe. Upon entering, I noticed that it was well-lit, with added lighting from the huge windows facing the road. Everyone was busy either eating, picking out the cupcake they wanted to try or being acquainted with the cafe's interior.

I mentioned earlier that Larcy's Cupcakery Cafe also serves savory dishes. You'll find in their other menu, which is hung on the rightmost part of the counter, breakfast entrees such as Vigan Longganisa with scrambled eggs, Smoked Bangus Belly with scrambled eggs, Mushroom Truffle pasta, and even sandwiches with either pandesal or ciabatta. Why not wash down all those desserts and palatable servings with either seven coffee drinks to choose from or shakes.

These are the packaging options customers have in case they wanna take some home or give the cupcakes as gifts.

A small spot of the cafe is dedicated to the merchandise, such as shirts and mugs, available for sale to reminisce about your cupcake experience at Larcy's.

Some of the cupcake flavors on their baby pink wall boards.

Next to the counter, you'll be able to watch the staff "bake behind the scenes" and see how the cupcakes and cakes are made. I always enjoy eating places that give their customers the a glimpse of the ingredients and process that all the food has to go through before putting it on display or serving it right before our very eyes. I've always loved Willy Wonka and being able to gawk at food this way makes me feel like I'm one step closer to winning the golden ticket. Perhaps one day I'll eventually get to fly to an actual chocolate factory and drown in fudge. Hmm. Anyway, let's not wander off too far now. I'll save that adventure for another post.

Cream cheese frosting being piped on the Pink Velvet Cupcakes.

You can to hold onto these cute pink buttons while waiting for your orders.

Larcy's Chocolate Obsession Cake, P125

A chocolate cake with a thick fudgy center and an even thicker topping, the Chocolate Obsession Cake is enough to feed two or three people because each bite carries itself swiftly into your mouth like a 3-pound morsel. Plated on a thin bed of cream and a little drizzle on top helps create a certain evenness between the bold taste of the cake and the lightness of the cream. I feel like I'm describing a Yin and Yang attraction here, where opposite forces interrelate wonderfully. *laughs*

Pink Velvet Cupcake

The term "cupcake holder" was taken to a whole different level as the cupcakes we ordered were served on dainty stands of different heights. Notice how there are light pink sprinkles atop and each cupcake is lined with pink and shimmery liners. I don't think you'll have to think twice as to why it was given the name Pink Velvet Cupcake, which is also dubbed as their "Cupcake for the month of December."

As I undressed this well-received dessert, I couldn't help but ogle at the color of the cupcake. The shade of red was hypnotizing, but the real star here is the frosting. Once you sink your teeth into the cupcake, you wouldn't care for the base as much as the topping. It's that good. But of course, the cake is not to be underestimated - both make a good pair. I must confess, I was trying to see if I could spot the ingredients they used in making cupcakes since I bake myself. I let out a mental "AHA!" when I caught site of Anchor butter as one of their main ingredients. That explains the richness and creaminess of their icing!

My cousin Neo and his Oreo Freeze

Not only are the cupcake holders fancy, but their water bottles are just as lavish. At first, it would seem like we were having wine to go with our cupcakes but don't let the photo fool you, this is just a luxurious approach to hydrating ourselves.

Larcy's Oreo Freeze

Tall, (slighty) dark and delicious are three words to describe the perfect man..I mean, milkshake. It's been a while since I've had one of these babies and I think that if I wasn't too bashful to sip the whole shake in one go, I would have. Milkshakes always have this certain effect on me - they remind me of diners and my childhood. So as I sipped away, it was a delightful mix of recollecting and basking in the taste of the shake.

Larcy's Cupcakery Cafe

178 Aguirre St.,

BF Homes, Paranaque

Facebook Page

Sweets For You by Lyza Syiaco

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I love how the month of December is my favorite excuse to indulge in sweets. Then again, I don't really need a reason to luxuriate in anything that satisfies my sweet tooth. When I sense my mouth starting to water at the site of a dessert that catches my fancy, there's no stopping me. Eating comfort food should be both fun and guilt-free despite the number of calories you consume and Lyza Syiaco of Sweets For You does a good job at making me feeling like I can down as much of her sweets as I want minus the worry of everything landing straight to my thighs. Putting a smile (and a few crumbs) on her customers' faces is top priority for this 20 year old culinary student, "My goal is to make my customers smile and to give an impression that the sweets were made especially for them. So every now and then, when I bake, I always keep in mind that this dessert should be perfect and of course, delicious."

I got to sample her revel bars, assorted cupcakes (both of which are her best sellers), as well as her triple chocolate chip cookies.

Chocolate Revel Bars (P25/piece, P200/box of 8)

I've always fancied revel bars - it's a cross between a cookie and a bar and when you unify oatmeal and chocolate, it becomes a tiny block of awesome. I've tasted several revel bars before but I have to say, this is the best one I've tasted yet. Each piece is big in flavor AND in size, which appears twice as big as the ones sold commercially.

Each serving doesn't skimp on chocolate filling and remains fudgy and gooey on the inside, which for me is important in picking the ultimate revel bar. You'll have to go easy on this one because settling for one piece won't be enough. These babies toss you off into oblivion and next thing you know, you catch yourself eating more than your stomach can handle. It's no surprise this is one of her best sellers!

Lyza beams with immense passion and youthful enthusiasm caught the baking bug as young as 8 years old and would sell products to school mates, friends and family, "I remember when I was a kid, I always joined my mom whenever bakes. I was the one who would pour milk into her cupcake batter and put marshmallow for the toppings. I am a 100 percent sweet lover, imagine I was 156 pounds back then. I am very "magastos", that's why my parents taught me how to earn my money and how to depend not only on them but also on myself. So I asked my mom to bake a brownies and asked her if i could sell them. They were totally happy because they really felt that I was really standing on my own feet and willing to do anything just to get what I want." I also love how she's just as delightful as the treats she sells!

Chocolate cupcake with hazlenut frosting (P55/piece)

One thing I noticed about the cupcakes Lyza makes is that the sugar content doesn't overpower and overwhelm my taste buds. Most desserts, when eaten in excess, gives off the "umay" feeling. This bunch of sweets, however, are an exception. The hazlenut frosting adds a perfect touch to the delicate chocolate base without crossing the chocolate-overload-o-meter.

Assorted cupcakes (P330/box of 6)

Each box of assorted cupcakes contains 2 pieces of Cookie Dough, Chocolate Cupcake with Hazlenut Frosting and Red Velvet Cupcakes.

Cookie Dough cupcake (P45/piece)

Ahhh, cookie dough is one of the few uncooked foods I find irresistible. I usually get my dose of cookie dough in ice cream in chunk form but not all ice cream parlors carry that flavor. So when I found out that Sweets For You offered a Cookie Dough flavored cupcake, I was so eager to taste it! Just like the revel bars, the cupcake did not disappoint. There was a chunk of cookie dough tucked on the inside and topped with cookie dough frosting and chocolate chips. I enjoyed every bite of this moist cupcake. This is definitely going on my list of favorite treats.

Red Velvet cupcake (P55/piece)

I don't think there exists a dessert business with cupcakes on the menu that doesn't offer the famed Red Velvet cupcake. You can tell from the photo that the cream cheese on top adds extra moisture to the cake base and the candy sprinkles add a playful touch to it. Light, delicious and lip-smacking are three words I would use to illustrate Sweets For You's take on the "dessert of the year".

Triple Chocolate Chip Cookies (P25/piece, P270/dozen)

A chocolate chip cookie with chocolate chips inside and topped off with white chocolate chips.

Sweets For You also offers paper cake (cake made out of layers of crepe with chocolate ganache filling, and coated with white ganache, candy sprinkles topped off with cocoa dust), cake pops and Oreo cake (4 tier chocolate fudge cake with Oreo cream filling). In addition, Lyza caters to events such as debuts, weddings, baptisms and provides options for giveaways and souvenirs.

Below are ways in which you may contact Lyza for orders. You can check out her Facebook page to find out more about what sweets you can purchase and get a glimpse of her other products!