Category: Destination Pinas

City Destination Pinas Food Tourism

Classic Sweets That Redefine Pasalubong from Vee’s Sweets

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas
Every Filipino’s travel mentality includes the intention to bring home a gift for their loved ones. Regardless of location, whether local or overseas, Filipinos instinctively seek that unique item that will bring joy to their loved ones back home, illustrating the enduring significance of the Philippines to every Filipino globally. Residents, expatriates, and non-nationals are aware of this.

 

Today, we introduce an all-Filipino cake and pasalubong center that not only manufactures high-quality sweet products for pasalubong but also embodies the Filipino spirit of creativity, inner strength, and tenacity.

 

What started as a straightforward passion has developed into a domestic brand that now honors life’s most delightful moments. A passion that actually started from being a full-time administrative staff member, program coordinator, and sign language interpreter for the Deaf at LINK Center.

 

By chance, TESDA approved Jackelyn as an interpreter for a deaf baking class student. After completing the course herself and gaining a TESDA certification, it was all systems go from that day forward, as Mark joined Jackelyn on this endeavor.

 

Initially, Vee’s Sweets faced the risk of losing its name due to existing claims in the Department of Trade and Industry’s records; however, the husband-and-wife duo, Jackelyn and Mark, persevered and ultimately opted to eliminate the additional designation ‘Bakeshop’ from the DTI’s proposed final registration name.

After all, it has been their brand identity since the beginning. The name was inspired by their son, Vee,  their sweet little boy.

In the future, Mark and Jackelyn plan to have a physical store, but for now, Vee’s Sweets accepts orders and delivery requests.

Update: The deaf baking student today has her own cakes and pastries store  prominently featured over Instagram as well.

 

Concept:

Vee’s Sweets has no physical store, but every product made here is inspired by family and cooked with love.

Every creation, including their best-selling tub cakes and round pan cakes, as well as birthday and personalized cakes, cupcakes, loaf breads, cookies, and bars, is meant to promote comfort, joy, and togetherness.

Their idea is straightforward: provide baked goods of excellent quality that taste like love and feel like home. They are ideal as gifts, for special occasions, or as a daily treat.

 

Specialties:

 

  • Birthday Cakes – Available in mini (5×3) and big (8×4) sizes.

Flavors: Carrot Cake, Banana Burst, Classic Chocolate Cake, Moist Chocolate Cake,

and 2-in-1 Chocolate x Caramel Cake

 

  • Round Pan Cakes – Perfect for sharing!

Flavors: Moist Chocolate Cake, Brigadeiro, and Chocolate Caramel Cake.

 

  • Cakes in a Tub – A reseller’s favorite, perfect for pasalubong and sharing. Comes in a variety of flavors such as Chocolate Cake, Yema Cake, Brigadeiro, Classic Chocolate Cake, and Flan Cake.

 

Check options from their Menu…

 

 

Typical Spend:

 

Php 150-Php 800

 

Contact:

 

Jackelyn V. Velches @ 09171896537

Mark V. Velches@ 09157562992

Note: Contact them for orders and delivery details.

 

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: FOOD TOURISM; PASALUBONG CORNER-QUEZON CITY
City Destination Pinas Vacation

How to Celebrate MassKara Like a Local: Tips, Spots, and What to Wear

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

Every October, Bacolod City bursts into a kaleidoscope of color, music, and laughter as it hosts one of the Philippines’ most iconic festivals: the MassKara Festival. Known as the “Festival of Smiles,” MassKara is more than just a spectacle—it’s a deeply rooted cultural celebration that reflects the resilience, optimism, and vibrant spirit of the Negrense people. If you’re planning to join the festivities, here’s your ultimate local-style guide to truly celebrate MassKara like a Bacolodnon.

 

Understand the Heart of the Festival

Before diving into the parties and parades, get to know why MassKara exists. The smiling masks symbolize the enduring optimism of the people. Keeping this background in mind will give your experience deeper meaning.

 

When to Go: Time Your Visit Right

MassKara usually peaks in the third or fourth weekend of October, with events stretching over three weeks. For the full experience, arrive a few days before the grand parade. This gives you time to explore the city, watch preliminary contests, and attend both government-sponsored and private events.

 

What to Wear: Dress the Part

Locals enjoy dressing up for MassKara, combining comfort with flair. Here’s what to pack:

  • Bright, breathable clothing: The weather is hot, and the streets are packed. Opt for light fabrics in festive colors, such as red, yellow, or neon hues.
  • Custom MassKara shirts: These are sold everywhere and make great souvenirs. Locals often wear shirts that represent their barangays or schools.
  • Comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking a lot—opt for sneakers or sandals with good support.
  • Accessories: Glitter, flower crowns, colorful shades, and even small masks. It’s okay to be extra.
  • Rain gear: October is part of the rainy season, so bring a light raincoat or umbrella—preferably in a loud color!

 

Must-Visit Spots During MassKara

 

  • Lacson Street 

This is the central hub (main festival strip) of MassKara. By day, enjoy pop-up shops, food stalls, and dance stages. By night, this becomes Electric MassKara, with neon lights, DJs, and a massive street party.

 

  • Bacolod Public Plaza

The venue where the original MassKara dance competition choreographed performances, cultural shows, and a vibrant local crowd take place.

 

  • SM City Bacolod & Ayala Malls Capitol Central

These malls host various events like MassKara fashion shows, mask-making contests, and live bands. These malls serve as excellent venues for unwinding, shopping, and taking in local performances.

 

  • Barangay Competitions

Want to experience MassKara like a real local? Visit barangay-level events, often held at community gyms or streets. These are raw, authentic, and fun.

 

  • The Art District

At night, Bacolod’s Art District in Lopue’s Mandalagan transforms into a party hub. Mingle with locals, enjoy indie music, and explore quirky art installations.

 

Eat Like a Local

Food is a big part of MassKara. Here’s what locals indulge in during the festival:

 

MassKara Like a Local: Do’s and Don’ts

 

Do:
  • Learn a few local phrases. “Palangga ta ka” (I love you) or “Gani man!” (Exactly!) go a long way.
  • Join the dancing. Locals don’t just watch—they dance along the streets.
  • Support local artisans. Buy handcrafted masks, shirts, and accessories.
  • Bring cash. Many stalls don’t accept cards or GCash.
Don’t:
  • Don’t just stay in hotels. Go where the locals go—try local eateries and public events.
  • Avoid wearing dark clothes at night. It’s a safety thing.
  • Don’t be passive. Participation is the key to the experience!
Insider Tips
  • Book early: Flights and hotels sell out fast, often months in advance.
  • Stay central:  Accommodations near Lacson Street or the downtown area give you front-row access to events.
  • Use public transport or walk: Roads are blocked during events. Jeepneys and tricycles are your best bet.
  • Stay hydrated: The crowd, heat, and excitement can drain you quickly.
  • Ask locals for tips: Bacolodnons are known for being friendly and welcoming.

MassKara transcends beyond a mere festival, embodying a unique vibe, a mindset, and a celebration of life amidst adversity. By embracing the music, joining the dance, tasting the food, and smiling along with everyone, you’ll experience Bacolod not as a tourist but as one of its own. So wear your brightest outfit, bring your best energy, and get ready to smile your way through MassKara like a local.

VKP, BACOLOD CITY: READY, JET SET, GO!

 

Destination Pinas Food Tourism

Get a Taste of Home with Hotbox Party Trays Anytime, Anywhere at 48 Bistro

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

Not the usual restaurant that you’d expect to find in a mall or its periphery, 48 Bistro is very much a resto-events place nestled inside the Vista Verde Subdivision in Cainta.

 

It started as Carmen’s, a family-owned restaurant serving comfort food created from beloved family recipes passed down through generations. It was, of course, founded by the Pascual siblings, who were born and raised around the kitchen table, united by the simple delight of home-cooked meals prepared by their mother, Carmen.

 

As the pandemic hit, it was forced to close down. It reopened again at a new address in 2023 at 48th Vista Verde Avenue, thus 48 Bistro was born, and now quite well known to its clientele of students, and other visitors who also happened to just pass by, and became repeat customers.

 

The restaurant can easily accommodate 100 people if it includes its second-floor function rooms.

 

Ambiance:

Cozy and relaxed resto feel. A very inviting atmosphere where guests feel as comfortable as they would in their own home. The space reflects a sense of everyday comfort where they can enjoy hearty and reasonably priced meals in a relaxed setting. The alfresco area was created for the garden feel and the complete experience of being at home where they can have their cup of coffee or their merienda in true Pinoy fashion with their families and friends.

 

 

Resto Format:

Dine-in, Delivery, and Events space. Online orders through Lalamove.

Open from 7am to 10pm, daily. P30.00 Delivery fee within Vista Verde. Other courier services (grab/lalamove) for outside Vista Verde.

 

 

Quirks:

48 Bistro boasts of its impressive event spaces on the second floor, and the Al Fresco area located just on the side entrance of the establishment, admired for its garden feel. This Al Fresco area also doubles as a solemn space where one can hold intimate garden weddings made for just chosen family members, while other guests can conveniently settle inside the main resto dining area.

 

For package orders, they have a package box they call the ‘hotbox’. It simply keeps your orders heated as they arrive on your doorstep. You’ll know when you see and experience it. So unique! Aliw!

 

 

 

Specialties
  • Family favorites include Kare Kare, Crispy Pata, Gambas, Binagoongan, and Tempura.
  • Students usually look for Chicken Katsu and 48 Bistro’s own blend of iced coffee.

 

Bestsellers: Pork in Mushroom Sauce, Beef Salpicao, Beef in mushroom Sauce, Shrimp Gambas, Fish Fillet in Mango Salsa, Chicken Cordon Bleu, and Chili Garlic Chicken among others.

 

Check other options from their Resto Menu, which includes their party packages and more. 48 Bistro also aims to become the most go-to party-tray and ‘potluck’ provider around Cainta, and hopefully reach other audiences outside Cainta as well.

48 Bistro just brings you  hot meals anytime, anywhere!

So the next time you pass by Cainta and Vista Verde, be sure to visit 48 Bistro, the taste of home!

To appreciate 48 Bistro’s food presentations, visit their Instagram account.

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: FOOD TOURISM—CAINTA

 

City Destination Pinas Food Tourism

Purple Vibes Café Marikina—A BTS-Inspired Coffee & Dining Spot

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

If the K-Pop phenomenon hasn’t caught up to you yet, this special spot in Marikina might convince you to take on that challenge. Located on the 2nd Floor of the GCN Building, 240 NW Narra St., Marikina Heights, Purple Café Marikina will give you just that: an appreciation for BTS and K-Pop, and what it’s like being there and experiencing its special charm.

The concept is the brainchild of Jansen and Felice Chua, a husband-and-wife team who are evidently appreciative admirers of the K-pop group BTS. This youthful couple resolved to put up something that they love most to do. Jansen handles the business side, while Felice, who enjoys cooking and is a fan of BTS, manages the menus and all BTS-related elements. Purple Café Marikina had its soft opening just last year, in April 2024.

Furthermore, the café’s menu food selections are virtually always named after BTS song titles and anything BTS-related.

 

Ambiance/Art Inspiration of Resto Interior:

Purely BTS; A BTS fan club haven! The café also features a cozy al fresco spot located on the café’s side, overlooking the balcony of the GCN Building and Narra Street.

 

Resto Format:

Dine-in, Delivery, Online Availability. The majority of their food offerings are served in generous portions, a plus worth our buck! Open from 7am-11pm daily!

 

Price Range:

Php 80-Php 300. Surprisingly affordable for its hefty and generous food serving options.

 

Quirk:

The café itself is like a clubhouse that serves as a meetup venue for fangirls and fanboys of BTS. The establishment’s charm lies in its adornment of BTS standees and carefully chosen photographs of each member and the group. It’s like being with BTS in real time; It’s simply a photo-op haven for BTS fans!

 

Purple Cafe Marikina also prides itself on being a venue for any BTS milestone here in Marikina. Fangirls and fanboys can rent the place for just a minimal amount to celebrate and view new landmark event updates on BTS, and what-have-you. A pay-per-view kind of thing.

 

Additionally, Purple Café Marikina invests significantly in obtaining viewing rights for BTS events, which are mostly held abroad but can be viewed live at the café! Tickets are sold every time for fans and non-fans. For announcements, you can visit Viajero Kultura Pilipinas, or their FB page website.

Moreover, you can also do karaoke stuff here if you so wish.

 

Specialties:

Beef Bulgogi, Lachimolala (Carbonara), Nachos, Tres Leches Cupcakes, Ube Halaya Cupcake, Mocha Crunch, Suganish Lattè (Spanish Latte), and Run (Grapes, Blueberry, Strawberry).

Also try their Sweet-Style Spaghetti, Lechon Kawali Silog, Oreo Frappe, and Strawberry Frappe.

PCM also looks to the future, and plans to diversify their menu selections as needed.

Something new at Purple Café, try their new Arroz Caldo for merienda.

Check other options from their Resto Menu…

 

Where:

2nd Floor of GCN Building, 240 NW Narra Street, Marikina. At the back of St. Scholastica Marikina.

 

To get from Gateway Mall on Aurora Boulevard to Purple Cafe Marikina  in Marikina, take the LRT-2 from Cubao Station to Santolan Station, then find a jeepney heading to SSS Village (or similar Marikina destinations like Parang or Concepcion), and alight preferably near Meralco or Jollibee Molave, and take a tricycle ride straight. Fare goes around P30. Alternatively, you can take a jeepney or bus directly on Aurora Boulevard that goes to Marikina City, and get off at the nearest stop to Purple Cafe. Exact instructions as the previous apply here.

For your convenience, go straight out back upon entering the GCN Building,  and locate the elevator. Purple Cafe Marikina is on the 2nd floor, near the balcony.

 

Bonus:

Chami, the friendly Shih Tzu, will be there to greet you at the entrance, i.e., if he feels like it. If you see him, be sure to give him a friendly pat.

 

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: FOOD TOURISM—MARIKINA
City Destination Pinas Food Tourism

Authentic Bicolano Comfort Food Café with Pastries and Coffee in Town

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

From Kamuning to Marikina, Ser & Nor have come a long way from their small home-bake startup in Kamuning, Quezon City, to the business they run now. Ser & Nor started with breads and pastries, such as cheese rolls and cookies, and delivered food trays to offices.

 

Through sheer goodwill and word of mouth, the siblings managed to make it work. Stephen Prestado, one of two brothers in the family, did a great job on the menu and restaurant aesthetics. At the same time, another sister, Frances Florence, handles the gastronomic side, and Joanna, the ever-gracious hostess of the family, manages the finances. Last year, in 2024, they established their base in Marikina, where they introduced Bicol delicacies like toasted siopao and pancit bato.

 

The establishment, as you know by now, is a family-run business that started from humble beginnings—Frances Florence, Joanna Joy, and Stephen Prestado each manage their respective roles. It also helped boost and diversify its products because one of its staff members formerly worked at a reputable restaurant and brought that experience. For potential customers visiting, the current facade is only a few months old, for your information. It debuted recently, on May 24, 2025.

 

And today, they continue to expand their offerings with beloved Bicolano specialties, including sinantolan, Bicol express, and Tinuktok—alongside breads, pastries, and drinks.

 

What’s in a name?

Ser & Nor is named after the parents Serapio and Norma, as it celebrates family, heritage, and the simple joys of sharing meals.

 

Additional Directions 

 

 

Ambiance:

A cozy, laid-back neighborhood spot with pipe-in music —warm wood, terracotta walls, natural light, and personal touches that make the space welcoming. Bookshelves filled with the owners’ personal collection enhance the inviting atmosphere. The design emphasizes both Marikina’s artisanal spirit and the owners’ Bicolano roots, blending homestyle comfort with modern café vibes.

 

Resto Format:

Dine-in, Delivery (Food Panda and direct orders), and Online available. Can accommodate 20 pax maximum at a time.

 

Price Range:

₱100 – ₱500

 

Quirk:

Based on Google Maps, Ser & Nor’s facade resembles a typical two-story house in a neighborhood without signage, which can cause some confusion. Google Maps hasn’t updated its visuals yet, so the facade looks really different when you visit. Be warned! Ser & Nor has a complete façade (now) with clear signage on its storefront and is fully air-conditioned.

 

Moreover, suspend your disbelief for a moment until you reach the main dining area. This space has an aesthetic that resembles an English-inspired pub interior, with framed photographs (hung), hanging bookshelves, vintage-looking steel chairs, and a darker wood color scheme, giving the place its natural classic charm and evoking a movie set.

 

Good Business Sense

Joanna Prestado, the family’s frontliner, might be the best customer profiler in the industry because she knows how to interpret what customers want and prefer. Customers will feel at home here since there are no aggressive sales tactics at Ser & Nor whatsoever. Wink-wink!

 

Regarding the presentation, Ser & Nor takes pride in making sure your order looks exactly like it does on the menu and guarantees that your taste buds will enjoy it too.

 

Specialties
  • Toasted Siopao (Chicken, Pork Asado, Pork Sisig)
  • Pancit Bato
  • Bicolano deli favorites: Laing, Sinantolan, Bicol Express, Tinuktok, Sambal Sauce
  • Fresh breads and pastries: Cheese Rolls, Ensaymadas, Cream Cheese Brownies
  • Signature Noodle Dishes: Laing Pesto Soba and Pancit Choca
  • Coffee drinks and specialty beverages

 

Check other options from their Resto Menu…

For events (corporate or family event packages…)

For casual order menu packages et al…

 

“Try their Pancit Choca, and Korean-Style Fried Chicken… you can never go wrong.” —VKP

 

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: FOOD TOURISM—MARIKINA
City Destination Pinas Food Tourism

Grill Reaper Barbecue House sa Malaya, your new Food Haven Begins Here

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

For a medium-sized grill spot that opened its first branch in Marikina just a few months ago, it’s admirable that it already aims to spark a revolution on a somewhat hidden street in Marikina, with plans to line it with restaurants, bars, cafes, and other venues. Although the establishment is tucked away in a suburb, its ambitions extend far beyond a simple plan. Grill Reaper Barbecue House managers hope to someday turn Malaya Street in Marikina into a popular food destination in Metro Manila, similar to Lilac, Matalino, and Gil Fernando Street.

 

Grill Reaper Barbecue House, a standalone restaurant in Antipolo and the first of its kind, was established in 2023. It offers an  all-you-can-eat barbecue concept that follows the Samgyupsal trend. Currently, they are reevaluating their strategies to add healthier options, such as a salad bar, in the near future for both branches. Just across from the Grill Reaper location in Marikina, they plan to open additional but related establishments to energize the stretch of Malaya Street without disturbing the peace of nearby residents.

 

The idea is straightforward. Follow the Samgyup trend but add more Pinoy ingredients, especially popular street food favorites. Adrian Gabriel and Enrico Noriega, food lovers, started Grill Reaper Barbecue House in February 2023 and tested the concept for eight months but saw limited success. So, they introduced unlimited chicken wings with the Grill Reaper Special flavor, made with Carolina Reaper hot sauce, which aligns with their brand. Now, they serve unlimited BBQ ribs.

 

Bryan Rey Rabor joined Adrian and Enrico in November 2023, completing the dynamic trio. They continued to innovate and brainstorm brand-boosting ideas. This led to a Pinoy-Style Korean barbecue that blends the best of both worlds.

 

Their perseverance paid off when they created the catchy phrase “Tara Samgy” in the second quarter of 2024. As customers entered, servers and staff eagerly let out this phrase, which became a hallmark of Grill Reaper Barbecue House.

 

What’s in a name?

The name was intended as a pun serving as a humorous tag for the establishment, according to the story. Its tagline? Tara Samgy!

 

Ambiance:

Trendy urban-industrial style with elements of a fun, casual, and social dining experience. Group food-trip vibe: A smoky yet aromatic environment; since Grill Reaper Barbecue House is located in a suburb, the atmosphere is fairly middle-class but can attract adventurous high-end clients.

The Grill Reaper Barbecue House is also pet-friendly, so if you find yourself in the area and unexpectedly become hungry, you can stop by and bring your pet with you!

 

Resto Format:

Dine-in, Delivery, and Online: Grab.

 

Price Range:

Php 180-Php 349

 

Quirk:

Don’t be fooled by the serving staff. They may seem serious while working, but they all participate in skits to promote their grill house. Watch their performances to see how talented they are. I personally observed how they create their skit segments. Keep in mind, these funny skits attract thousands of viewers on social media on any given day. It’s a clever gimmick. Imagine that!

 

“The last time I saw such a creative idea was when the singing cooks and waiters in Timog surprised the press with songs and dances.” —VKP

 

  • Where: 139 Malaya St., Malanday, Marikina City
  • Hours: Usually starting from 12:00 PM (noon), including late evenings and weekends, with “unli” (unlimited) promotions on specific days like Sunday, Friday, and Thursday. For the most accurate and current schedule for Grill Reaper Marikina, it’s best to contact them directly or visit their official Facebook page. 
  • Contact: 09625481618
  • Mail: grillreaperunlipinoybbq@gmail.com

 

Specialties:
  • Samgyupsal, Wings, and Ribs

Check other options from their Resto Menu…

 

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: FOOD TOURISM—MARIKINA
City Destination Pinas Food Tourism

Cafe Leonor: Where Marikina Celebrates with Food & Memories

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

Rooted in heritage, love, and family, Café Leonor continues the legacy of Nanay Onor, the beloved grandmother and family matriarch, since 2022. Known to many as an exceptional cook, her culinary talent inspired the creation of this cozy café-restaurant, which also serves as an intimate events venue for all occasions.

 

Café Leonor’s dining room features wood and brick accents, a glass-enclosed entrance, and simple table settings that keep the space bright and versatile—perfect for everyday meals or more formal occasions. Even their staircase has a classic varnished look. The function room, located just inside the restaurant, is a library-like space where you can enjoy dining in a quiet atmosphere, fitting for a library but with more lively and colorful floral decor accents. The space is designed to accommodate special events without compromising its casual charm.

 

The restaurant is in its third year in 2025. It can accommodate 70-80 people, including the library function room.

 

Today, Café Leonor is a heartfelt tribute to not just delicious food and cherished memories, but also to Nanay Onor’s enduring legacy of love, warmth, and generosity. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a welcoming home where stories are exchanged, milestones are joyfully celebrated, and every guest feels like family.

 

What’s in a name?

Simply just a dedication to the resto’s family matriarch.

 

Ambiance:

Chic resto vibe with pipe-in jazz music. Esperanza’s, a classy restaurant in the 90s along Tomas Morato immediately comes to mind when you see and experience the place. It’s a mini-version of sorts. The establishment itself is a heritage site dedicated to Nanay Onor, as prominently displayed among other decors inside. Moreover, Café Leonor has the friendliest staff.

 

Resto Format:

Dine-in, Delivery, and Online: Grab. All-around events venue. Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

 

Quirk:

Cafe Leonor offers lower prices than other popular brunch spots in the city while providing a more complete “meal + coffee + venue” experience than many traditional cafes. That ideal combination—affordable main dishes and café beverages, and an excellent event venue for intimate weddings, corporate meetings, birthdays, and showers.

Key touches include:

  • Transformable décor (e.g., floral ceiling installations)
  • Private/VIP-style sections depending on setup
  • Booking options posted via their socials

If you want a “plug-and-play” intimate venue that doesn’t demand hotel-level budgets, this is precisely the lane they occupy.

Furthermore, Café Leonor is conveniently located on the second floor. It’s a good idea to wash up before heading to the main restaurant since its restrooms and lavatories are downstairs. Pet-friendly too.

 

 

Specialties
  • Lechon Kawali with a signature calamansi sauce—a bestseller the café spotlights often.
  • Chicken and pork plates, plus rice bowls for hearty, value-friendly meals.
  • Spaghetti Carbonara and other pasta plates appear frequently in diner photos and reviews. Portions are filling without breaking the bank—ideal for students, families, and office groups.
  • A long list of frappes (Matcha, Dark Belgian Choco, Salted Caramel, White Choco Mocha, and more) typically runs ₱115–₱175. It’s a crowd-pleasing drinks board to pair with savory plates or dessert.

 

For more options, check their Resto Menu…

Café Leonor Events Package Menus

 

“Had a wonderful time as they prepared their specialties for me to photograph and video. Everything looked temptingly scrumptious. I especially enjoyed their Butterfly Pea, a colorful drink concoction, and Chicken Cordon Bleu de Romeo, both of which were delicious.”

—VKP

 

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: FOOD TOURISM—MARIKINA

City Destination Pinas Food Tourism

Discover Why Heavenly Desserts Is Marikina’s Go-To Cake and Dessert Store

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

“Beautiful and tastes even better than it looks. Ingredients are very obviously high quality…”

 

Every concept begins with an idea, but as Chef Jeng’s story shows, it wasn’t that straightforward. As a college student, she didn’t develop a passion for baking and selling baked goods at a storefront until the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns hit years later. You see, Chef Jeng initially planned to pursue a career in physical therapy, but life had other plans, and she wasn’t accepted into that field. She eventually studied civil engineering, where she met her husband, who later partnered with her in several entrepreneurial ventures.

 

Ultimately, Jeng completed an advanced pastry and baking course at the Academy of Pastry Arts Philippines and continued her training in Malaysia, becoming the chef, she is recognized as today. With boredom setting in, the COVID-19 lockdowns greatly influenced her desire to explore and be creative. She rediscovered her passion for baking. By sharing baking videos on YouTube and social media, her creations quickly gained popularity and attention.

 

Encouraged by her friends, Chef Jeng started selling her cakes. It wasn’t long until orders began pouring in—sometimes as many as fifty inquiries daily—for a home-based operation. To manage orders, her home’s dining area, living room, and garage were converted into makeshift kitchens. Staff from her construction business who were temporarily out of work were trained to help bake and fulfill orders, offering them a continued livelihood.

 

As demand grew, especially from customers in the southern parts of Metro Manila, Chef Jeng opened a pickup location in Las Piñas after the lockdowns eased. Additionally, she sought financial support for expansion. With help from her Sun Life Financial advisor, she tapped into half a million pesos from her VUL policy to fund the new branch. That was where the story of Heavenly Desserts began and flourished.

 

Today, Heavenly Desserts has eleven  physical locations, including one in Makati, BGC (Taguig), Pasay, Quezon City, Ortigas, and its Marikina headquarters.

 

Business Resilience & Diversification
  • In 2022, Chef Jeng became a principal shareholder in District One Gastrolounge in BGC, joining friends in opening the restaurant. Despite the significant investment, the restaurant broke even by its third month.
  • She also concentrated on reducing risk through solid financial planning—such as evaluating Sun Life’s Business Owners Insurance Packages for extra security.

 

What’s in a name?

Cakes and desserts for the average person are mostly about taste and appetite, but for an aspiring connoisseur, it’s something more. There’s something about our taste buds that influences and impacts us differently as an experience, providing an out-of-this-world gratification to the whole being, to the soul, as you might say. Without saying outright, it’s ‘heaven on earth,’ which is why Heavenly Desserts was named as such.

 

Specialties:

Bread and Pastries. The brand highlights handcrafted, high-quality desserts, featuring offerings such as moist Belgian chocolate cakes, Basque burnt cheesecakes, fresh strawberry shortcakes, mini cake assortments, and Filipino-inspired flavors like ube-macapuno and langka pastillas.

 

Other item selections from The Online Menu of Heavenly Desserts, and Add-Ons

Pre-Order Now!

More options from the Resto Menu

 

Branch Location Details:

Marikina City

Main Branch: 34 Pikador St, Midtown Subd., Marikina City; +63 960 273 6307; Management: chefjeng.hd@gmail.com

FB – Heavenly Desserts by Chef Jeng Sy Flores
IG –@heavenlydesserts_chefjeng
Tiktok – @heavenly_desserts

 

District One, BGC

W Global Center, 9th Avenue; +63 945 172 4950

 

Ayala Malls The 30th

Meralco Avenue, Pasig City; +63 966 553 0037

 

SM Shell Residences

The Strip at Shell, EDSA; +63 956 175 5738

 

Lucky Chinatown Mall

Binondo Manila; +63 956 175 5740

 

SM Center Muntinlupa

Unit E – 107, Ground Floor; +63 956 175 5741

 

SM City Fairview

UG Annex; +63 995 179 7248

 

Las Piñas City

Order Via Website, Grab Food, or Food Panda; +63 917 816 5499.

 

Quezon City

116 Biak-na-Bato Barangay Siena; +63 945 536 0546

 

The Shops

The Columns Tower 3 Ayala; +63 917 158 3618

 

Grab Kitchen Commonwealth

Order Via Grab Food +63 953 156 084

 

Ambiance/Art Inspiration of Resto Interior:

Simply French.

 

Resto Format:

Dine-in, Delivery Website Grab & Food Panda

 

Price Range:

75 to 2,750 PhP

 

Quirk:

You might be a little confused about how to use their restroom. They have a very high-tech Japanese-style toilet bowl with all the whistles and buttons. Use the remote when flushing the toilet. Well, that’s something you don’t see every day.😁

 

What Customers Are Saying:

 

“Love their buttery croissant variants!”—VKP

 

“Yes! Heavenly talaga😁. Masarap ‘yung cakes nila. Parang it melts in the mouth.”

 

“Winner ‘yung Heavenly Moist Chocolate Cake. ‘Yun lagi kong binibigay ‘pag may friend akong magbi-birthday.”

 

“Others regard it as a splurge-worthy indulgence.”

 

“Tried the chocolate mousse with strawberries on top. It was worth it.”

 

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: FOOD TOURISM—MARIKINA

 

City Destination Pinas Food Tourism

Baliktanaw Café: Café, Family, and History in One!

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

 

Once a dental clinic, the location became a restaurant called Casaño. Rumor has it that Marcelo’s was once used as a fictional establishment name for it on TV, leading to confusion on Google Maps. However, the venture didn’t last long either, as the Reyes family later bought it for its vintage charm, which caught the eye of the eldest, Ms. Celeste Reyes, who has a fondness for vintage-style houses and furniture.

A little tidbit: A local from Marikina said that it was really “Casaño”. The name “Marcelo’s” was only used for a TV program at ABS-CBN before.

The family then considered renovating it without significantly changing its core design and maintaining its vintage appeal, mainly to serve as the Reyeses’ family home at first. But fate had other plans, as the youngest member of the family thought of turning the al fresco area of the house into a coffee shop. And so, it began. With the help of social media platforms, Baliktanaw Cafe grew and started offering indoor dining with something new—the pastas. Eventually, the owners decided to add an all-day breakfast, which began this May of 2025.

 

What’s in a name?

Baliktanaw, as a name, tells a meaningful story of history and family, reflecting on its past. The establishment is a place for reconnection and nostalgia for family. The owners are a family of four siblings; its name is inspired by the timeless act of family members enjoying each other’s company while eating at a dining table, reminiscing about their good old memories together, hence, “Baliktanaw.”

The people behind this are a family living in Marikina: Reynaldo De Guzman Reyes, father; Vivian Natividad Reyes, mother; and their children: Celeste Natividad Reyes, the eldest; Ronald Allan Natividad Reyes, the second; Ray Angelo Natividad Reyes, the third; and Camille Natividad Reyes, the youngest.

 

Ambiance/Art Inspiration of Resto Interior:

Inspired by the owner’s old-soul appreciation for vintage aesthetics, the cafe was carefully designed to feel like a cozy, nostalgic home where customers can gather and enjoy a meal as if it were their dining table, sharing company. Additionally, the owner selected all furnitures, from the lighting to the tables; even the most minor details are thoughtfully planned.

 

Resto Format:

The dine-in experience is currently available, but it will eventually shift to online deliveries.

 

Price Range:

100 to 400 PhP

 

Specialties:

One of their best-sellers is the Tapa series, which features different types of meat like horse, wild boar, and deer. These meats are local and come from a farm in Batangas. Baliktanaw Cafe also offers a selection of pastries, including the Biscoff Cheesecake, one of the cafe’s most popular items. They also serve Filipino dishes in a clay pot, accompanied by three cups of rice, called “Sikreto ni Ate.” The concept is that customers have to order it to discover the secret. For drinks, they offer classic coffee options like lattes and cappuccinos. Be sure to try their Takipsilim (Salted Caramel), Noong Araw (Spanish Latte), Kanela De Crema (Cinnamon Latte), and Fresa De Crema (Strawberry Milk).

 

Other item selections from The Menu of Baliktanaw Café!

 

Location:

Baliktanaw Café is at 172 J.P. Rizal St., Barangay San Roque, Marikina City 1801 (A few meters away from Our Lady of the Abandoned Church and Sunday’s Breakfast)

 

For details and queries, you may contact:

 

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: FOOD TOURISM-MARIKINA
Destination Pinas Establishments Technology

SmartHouse Prefabs: The Future of Sustainable Resorts and Homestays in the Philippines

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

In a nutshell, SmartHouse offers a modern alternative to traditional housing by addressing issues related to cost, speed, space, and environmental impact. Whether you’re a millennial aiming to invest early in property, an OFW building for your family, or an investor focusing on low-cost rentals, prefabricated homes provide durability, quick construction, and long-term value.

With the ability to fit on  small lots, remote land, or even penthouse floors, SmartHouse is changing how Filipinos view home ownership today. The possibilities are endless—from resorts, prefab gyms, commercial buildings, and apartments to residential hospitals, the sky is the limit with SmartHouse prefab.

Okay, it may seem odd and hard-sell to feature a Smarthouse prefab company on a travel and tourism website, but it will make sense once we start thinking creatively. The Philippines, like any country, needs revenue for its travel and tourism industries to thrive, so local government units support efforts to boost their cities, provinces, and municipalities to achieve these goals.

In the short term, travel and tourism can be boosted through increased visibility and engaging efforts through proper advertising, such as:

 

  1. Tactile & Immersive Pop-up Experiences
  • Travel fair booths & kiosks: Deploy foldable modular kiosks at tourism expos and fairs—stunning visuals, quick setup, reusable, and relocatable. Quick-deploy kiosks at airports, malls, or towns to distribute brochures and engage travelers in immersive experiences.
  • Tourism activation zones: Place branded pop-up structures in key tourist spots or even cities and municipal airports (e.g., Boracay, Vigan, El Nido), offering immersive previews or VIP lounges.
  1. On-Site Accommodation with a Marketing Edge
  • Showcase stay pods: Install sleek, branded container houses in destinations allowing travelers to “experience before they book”—e.g., airport preview units or in-lobby micro-lodging. Mini stay units showcasing specific destinations—e.g., mountain retreats, beach mini‑resorts—letting visitors tangibly feel the brand.
  • Event-specific housing: Use modular units as temporary lodging during festivals or conferences—integrate digital screens or brand storytelling within. Temporary lodging at fiestas, concerts, or conferences—dual-purpose branding and accommodation.
  1. Strategic Digital Signage Venues
  • Kiosks with integrated screens: Equip modular units with digital displays promoting local experiences, guided tours, or live social media feeds, leveraging interactive signage solutions popular in malls and public venues
  • Wayfinding & info booths: Deploy as touch-responsive, branded wayfinding stations at tourist hotspots, partnering with content providers for dynamic updates. Or maybe create Instagram-worthy modular zones tied to local attractions—e.g., “Pasalubong Pods” or “Photo Op Cabins.”
  1. Marketing as Added Value
  • Mobile brand showcases: Use movable prefab structures for roadshow marketing in satellite cities or provincial tourism centers—instant brand visibility where crowds naturally gather.
  • Co-marketing with LGUs: Collaborate with local governments to establish branded infospots or welcome centers using modular SmartHouse builds—maximizing foot traffic and partnership potential.

 

All in all, a fleet of foldable SmartHouse units that can be rotated across key locations for extended marketing visibility is a big help in advertising our tourist destinations all over the Philippines. With the assistance or even subsidy of the national or local governments for a one-time cost, this is a big possibility.

Furthermore, in the long run, local governments can improve their tourist attractions by developing more affordable Airbnb options and using less expensive resort accommodation alternatives. Smarthouse has gained a reputation for creating appealing and world-class units fit for resorts or micro accommodations.

 

Who These Initiatives Attract
  • Local Tourists & Urban Explorers: Engaged at malls, airports, and urban centers—drawn by interactive, immersive setups.
  • International Travelers: At entry points like airports or cruise terminals—small-scale accommodation previews make an impression.
  • Event-Goers & Locals in Destination Hubs: Engaged at festivals, exhibitions, or tourist numbers; modular lounges or stay units double as experience touchpoints.
  • Content Creators & Social Media Enthusiasts: Eye-catching modular setups easily become trending photo spots.
  • Local Partners & LGU Visitors: Branded, functional modular units strengthen government and tourism board partnerships, showcasing investment in visitor experience.

 

Strategic Tips for SmartHouse
  1. Collaborate with Tourism Boards & LGUs to co-brand and deploy modular structures at high-traffic zones—helping travel brands gain exposure and add value to destinations.
  2. Integrate Digital Signage Technology—partner with signage platforms to transform modular builds into dynamic promotional tools
  3. Offer Thematic Customization—e.g., tropical, heritage, mountain, fiesta themes that reflect local attractions; makes modules visually aligned with location branding.
  4. Emphasize Mobility & Efficiency—highlight quick set-up, fold-flat transport, and reusability—appealing to campaign-driven marketing budgets.
  5. Track Engagement—embed sensors or QR codes to monitor visitor interaction; provide clients with analytics on reach and dwell time.

 

SmartHouse Philippines stands at a strategic intersection of modular innovation and experiential marketing. By leveraging their customizable, resilient, and transportable prefab structures, they can revolutionize how tourism brands engage audiences—making every activation portable, memorable, and impactful.

Resources: YouTube; Carousel; Instagram; and Tiktok

For details call: Ms. Alezandra Brantley at (02) 8423-5817 or email at alezandra.brantley@smarthouseprefab.com.ph

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: ESTABLISHMENTS, TECHNOLOGY