When foreigners hear about Philippines, most likely, they associate the place readily to fiestas (festivals). Being predominantly Catholic, the country holds hundreds of these distinct, colorful festivities every year to commemorate respective patron saints or religious events. The highlight of every feast is the Santacruzan. Before, only sons and daughters of the elite can join such highlight, but now, everyone is welcome to take part to the event. Come month of May in the Philippines, the place blooms not just because of the flowers but because of the festivals as well.

I’ve written about how Richmonde Hotel offered top class service to their occupants, and now, I’m going to talk about The Richmonde Grill– the hotel’s restaurant, with their collection of dishes that would satisfy one’s meal cravings anytime of the day. When I ate there, I had Calamari Salad starter, a great prelude to my fish main entree. And after having such, I ordered a Blueberry Cheesecake, which is a different from the traditional Cheesecake for it uses a cream cheese ice cream, for a wonderful finale to this lovely meal.

The World Food Expo 2009 (WOFEX), is back this August 5 to 8. Despite the economic crisis, the food processing industry suppliers’ incresed willingness to participate in this year’s WOFEX is very apparent. Of course, it’s because they knew that crisis or no crisis, people would always eat! WOFEX will hold it’s biggest edition this year, occupying the four halls of the World Trade Center in Manila.

Since it’s summer season, the Pancake house is introducing cool treats highlighting the fruits of summer– such as pineapple, mango, strawberry, and more. Example of their cool treats are the Pine Banana Samba, Pine Green Mango Tango and the Pine Watermelon Whirlwind. These are just the new array that they are offering this summer. I didn’t order among any of these beacause all are too acidic for me. So I ordered their Sticky Monkey Split instead for my dessert and it’s nothing but an amazing sweet treat!