#NCDfoodTrip: Mitsuo 'San aka Japan Japan sa Naga City

Naga City - Ever heard your friends eating at Japan Japan? Where the heck is this place? Well, actually the name of this authentic source of Japanese food is Mitsuo 'San at Mariano Village. Being a hole in the wall food place, Mitsuo 'San has been serving Naguenos for quite some time already. Hole in the walls need not be fancy and is appreciated by many because of its indistinct feat. Before Mitsuo 'San operated at the comfort of their home, the flavors of cooking of the owner was actually part of a well known Japanese restaurant here in Naga City. Perhaps you know which resto I'm referring to.  

Now where exactly is Mitsuo 'San? Make West Park at Magsaysay Avenue as your landmark, take the street beside it, Kayangga Street, and just walk for a few meters straight. If you see a signage in Japanese, on the right side, then you've reached Mitsuo 'San already.

Students and even professionals enjoy the budget friendly price of Mitsuo San's offerings. For as low as P100 per person, your #foodtrip is fully covered. They also accept made to orders, consider the California Maki for your parties and gatherings perhaps?

Sharing a few of Mitsuo San's best sellers that I have personally tried. But before everything else, there's one very importnat reminder. Japanese food  will require a little patience from you especially if you chanced upon the place full of customers. Consider the "Thank you for your willingness to wait" sign as a reminder beforehand.

Ramen for only P78.00. For this price with its taste, I'm satisfied and contented. 

They also offer Yakisoba.

California Maki at P110. I love how Mitsuo San serve their makis with consistency when it comes to taste and presentation. There's one restaurant here in Naga who offered the same but was only appealing during their first few weeks of operation. After ordering for the second and third time, the taste and especially the presentation gradually changed. Seems like they were cost cutting. Another alternative from Mitsuo San is the Kappa Maki which has a cucumber in it.

 

Prices may change without prior notice. 

Other offerings are: Rice Toppings which starts at P90 to P130. To name a few they offer Gyudon, Katsudon, Oyakudon, Chicken Teriyaki Don, Pork Teriyakidon, Salmon Teriyakidon, Salmon Bento, Tempura Bento, Tonkatsu Bento, Chickenkatsu Bento.

They also have Gyoza (dumplings) at P70, Miso Soup, Kani Salad Tempura, Takoyaki Rice and of course the Takoyaki Balls.

Prices may change without prior notice.

Mitsuo 'San
IG: @takoyakibymitsuo
Kayanga Road, Mariano Village, Naga City
Contact No. 09262445780 and look for Tita Goldie
Store Hours: 10:00 am to 8:00 am
Open from Monday to Saturday

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Bicol Bloggers Turns 2!

Naga City - Here in the heart of Bicol as I write these random thoughts I came across our group (Bicol Bloggers) photos recollecting how far we've come not only as bloggers but as friends. We never see each other as a competitor. We see each other as a source of insight and inspiration for us to continue what we love to do. Our clicks just keep coming. Never a dull moment with my fellow bloggers. 

Writing is sometimes lonely. Bloggers demystify the where-to-gos, where-to-eats and just random thoughts that come across our thinking caps. While it is an extension of what we feel, see and touch, readers will always have the final say to whether the place is nice or not. Ain't it lonely when you and your readers don't meet half way? But, that's reality, and it helps us grow.

Getting a good grip and angle isn't an easy task. As we put it, the struggle is real when you do a flatlay just like in food blogging. Balance is important as you pose behind the camera, the behind the scenes are just hilarious and therapeutic just as it is. And oh the hands, hands and nails should be clean as it becomes the face and an ornament to the whole set up.

We love to make fun of ourselves. It's something that we cherish in every blogging duty that we have. We discover more of our own styles as we grow together as a blogging family. Blogging is not just about money, it's about the passion that we continue to harness each and every day and sharing it to others. There's nothing wrong in earning through your blog, but taking advantage of the invitations from businesses and personalities is something we dot not adhere to.

We spend and invest on the quality of what we post, but all these happen without any regret esp when you love what you're doing. Annual domain registration, gadgets to fuel our passion for a qualitative output and the list just keeps coming. While others see it as a business, we at Bicol Bloggers treasure our experiences together and the places we feature, because... Blogging as a passion is a lifelong commitment and not a monthly subscription. We put our very essence into what we post, like, and share.

 

It's just 2 years and yet we have shared good memories already and I'm very much excited to creating more memories with you guys in the future. Happy 2nd Anniversary to us Bicol Bloggers!

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Stonehouse Gardens Resort Naga City

Naga City - Sometimes we get caught up with too much stress that we end up staring blankly. But why stare on a wall or office corner if you can have the option of looking at  a view from Panicuason overlooking San Miguel Bay area. Barangay Panicuason is home to numerous resorts. To name a few, we have the famous Panicuason Hot Spring Resort, the good ol' Penafrancia Resort, a quick dip at Sulat Pool for those in tight budget or a hike to Malabsay Falls for the young and adventurous. 

Stonehouse Gardens Resort is a 5 hectares native rain forest located at Barangay Panicuason just a few meters before the gates of Mt. Isarog National Park. There's an effort to concertize the road going to Malabsay, but at the back of my mind, I just wished that it remains to be the rugged road that it was so that it's not that accessible to many especially to irresponsible tourists.

It's my first time at Stonehouse and it was around 2010 when this resort was at its prime. Imagine, it took me almost 7 years to come here even if I'm a Nagueno. Indeed, timing is something that we don't get even with careful planning and our trip was just a fruit of a conversation at our office's lounge area. Some of the amenities might need a little renovation but I could not complain as this resort has a charm and glamour that you cannot get from the other resorts in Panicuason. 

Here's how you get to this beautiful resort right at the foot of Mt. Isarog.

Jeepney ride. From downtown Naga, go to the Panicuason bound terminal near P. Caceres St./Padian Street just right beside Metrobank. Jeepneys will stop at the barangay proper of Panicuason. Either you make an arrangement with the driver to drop you off the at the Girl Scout area where the private cars are usually parked or you rent a habal-habal so that you'll get to Stonehouse Resort directly. TIP: Get the number of the habal habal driver to pick you up after your stay at the resort. 

Private vehicle. SUV types can easily maneuver the path going to Stonehouse and Malabsay. Drove the Pajero of my officemate during our trip and it can obviously surpass a rough terrain and muddy areas coupled with experienced driving. The last time I went to Malabsay Falls with my college friends, I drove an Avanza. Though my fellow bloggers got their Suzuki Swift up to Stonehouse one time, but if you ask me, I won't risk driving a sedan or any subcompact car to this area.

Reservation is important. I messaged Stonehouse Gardens Resort for a day tour one Saturday on their Facebook page. They responded within the day and gave their mobile number  (0908)4501932 or (0917)5289457 to keep in touch on the day of our booking. Reservation was made easy and fast. Day tour costs P500 per person, inclusive of the use of amenities, plus welcome drinks (so you have to inform them the time of your arrival), unlimited brewed coffee which I really loved.

This is my favorite part of the resort. The main area plus overlooking San Miguel Bay area.

Below is the beautiful gate, as if it's part of the one of the Houses of Game of Thrones.  

The door bell is literally like a church bell. 

The main building with the accommodation. Overnight fee with the accommodation costs P3500 good for two with breakfast included.

Classy indoors. Loved every detail of this place. Even the shadows makes it lovelier.

Now let's go to the pool and lounge area. 

The welcome drinks.

The kitchen and bar area. I bet this whole place will be even charming at night.

The view from the billiard table. Every angle and corner of this place is refreshing to the eyes. 

Played pool too aside from the swimming pool haha. Brings back my high school memories. 

They also have a videoke machine that you can freely use. Just take turns just in case there are other guests.

Now let's go to the pool area. Of no doubt, the infinity pool of Stonehouse is the only infinity pool in the city that will give justice to its kind. An infinity pool is often designed such that the edge appears to merge with a larger body of water such as a larger body of water and the sky. The location of the resort sufficiently provides that requirement, San Miguel Bay and the sky with the perimeters of Mt. Isarog.

Probably this is the most photographed area of Stonehouse. No actioncam? No problem! Back when waterproof cameras are still expensive, Stonehouse has already given you the opportunity to have an underwater photo. 

 

Food. If you don't want to bring any meals for lunch. You can pre-order and talk about your food during your reservation. As for us during our trip, we packed our lunch together with a few drinks and snacks in between. You can order meals for P250 per person like this one below. 

Banana not included hehe. But I guess when there are harvest from their farm, fruits are also available.

Some tourists may actually choose the beach or any natural free flowing water for excursions. Stonehouse Gardens will not pass in that criteria but this resort is more than just an infinity pool. If aesthetics and design would be considered, for me the structure of this resort does not totally disturb the natural habitat of the place. Though yes, there's a built structure but the whole landscape is still natural. Panicuason Hot Spring resort might offer the "hot spring" per se which is their prime service, the whole place looks barren and too concrete. But again this is just my personal opinion and I also love the hot spring too, every outing really depends on what you would like to experience. 

I can actually gaze on the view that Stonehouse is offering even for a whole day without dipping in the pool. Here's a bonus, if you chance upon the resort being you as the only guest? Then you are in for a wonderful treat! It's quiet, serene and you'll be able to relax mentally, physically and psychologically. The experience will actually let you feel that the place is private and exclusively for you with the superb comfort. When looking down upon Naga and San Miguel area it's as if it's a temporary escape from the noise and pollution of the city, include toxic people too haha. And this we need once in a while. The next time I visit, I hope it would be an overnight stay, I bet the whole resort will glisten like a star. Hoping that it will not take me another 7 years. Oh so lovely!

Just one last tip, wait for the sunset. It's all worth it. 

All photos does not have any filter. What you see is what you get. 

Stonehouse Gardens Resort
Facebook Page: https://web.facebook.com/pg/StonehouseGardensResort/
For day tours, overnight and private parties: (0908)4501932 or (0917)5289457

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#NcDRoadTrip: 3 Things You Can Do in An Hour in Tayabas, Quezon

For Bicolanos like me, we consider Quezon as one of the longest roads that we pass by going to and from Manila. With the completion of new by-pass roads along Quezon, we are now becoming distant to the gastronomic fares and idyllic towns and cities along the way. While we don't really have the intention of visiting these towns, I realized that we can never rightfully pin down on the map places that we just passed by, after all, passing by is totally different from setting foot on them for a few hours.  

The first time I was able to pass by Tayabas was when we went for a pilgrimage to Kamay ni Hesus Shrine in Lucban, Quezon. Noticed old buildings and iconic churches along the way and had me hanging for quite some time not knowing when my return would be. Interestingly Tayabas also has numerous cemeteries, seriously. I'm always drawn to old places and structures, the aesthetics of the place resonates stories that the ear cannot hear but has strong feels to the heart. 

Luckily, we had a work-related trip in Manila towards the end of January and when we were Bicol-bound, we had an unplanned "along the way lang naman, daan tayo sa ___" and so it was Tayabas. We spent a little extra liters of diesel and an added forty minutes to our trip because we also had our nth palasubong stop-over in Calle Budin (read more about it below). 

Tayabas is a land-locked town which is situated at the south-eastern of “Mt. Banahaw”. It features local delicacies, UNESCO-worthy churches,  historical bridges and heritage houses. Here are the 3 things that you enjoy for an HOUR in Tayabas, Quezon.

1. Visit Minor Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel

"Built in 1585, the Minor Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel is a Roman Catholic basilica located in Tayabas, Quezon. It is the largest Catholic church in the Province of Quezon.It is renowned for having the shape of a key. Locals often refer to the church as Susi ng Tayabas.On October 18, 1988 the title Minor Basilica was conferred by Pope John Paul II. It was proclaimed on January 21, 1989."

Minor Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel

This church is said to be have the longest aisle in the country, this will actually help the bride think about saying yes or no at the end of the alter haha. 

2. Casa Comunidad de Tayabas

Known as the biggest “Bahay na Bato” ever restored by the National Historical Institute and declared a National Historical Landmark in 1978, this house is Tayabas' most famous landmark. "This was where Apolonio de la Cruz, better known as Hermano Pule, was sentenced to death by firing squad." This house is actually a head turner, it's impossible if you will not notice this beautiful landmark.  

3. Buy and eat Budin and other local delicacies at Calle Budin "Home of Special Budin and Pasalubong".

Eat Budin and Yema Cake

Sample on local foods and delicacies or better yet bring home some as pasalubong. Buying pasalubong along national highways has its extra price and here in Calle Budin and you will save as much as 50 pesos. Budin in layman's term is a cassava cake and it's available all the time. They also have a yema cake where its sweet and salty, look for the Rodilla's brand.

Aside from the usual tikoy, sampaloc and other delicacies, you can also get a dozen of Lucban Longganisa. Then I noticed a pot, out of my curiosity I asked Ate (the vendor) if I may open it, then I saw something wrapped in banana leaves still warm and moist. This delicacy is called Tamales, grounded rice shaped into squares topped with meat (in this case, chicken) and slices of salted egg. Selling price is only P15!

I don't know if it's just me, to be honest, I didn't like much the taste of the grounded rice. But hey, perhaps you might like it, so tell me what you think when you found one of these in your trip.

For approximately an hour, these are the things I have done in Tayabas. I will make sure that the next time I visit the place, I'll go inside the church already. I only photographed the facade of the Basilica same with the "Bahay na Bato". lol

Adding to the list is an important tourist spot in Tayabas and they are the Historical  Stone Arch Bridges. Oh boy, I have to see them next! As listed in the Tayabas' government website there are about eight (8) of them. Wow!

Puente de Malagonlong Source: tayabas.gov.ph

The rest of the stone arch bridges are:

Puente de Bai

Puente de la Ese

Puente del Lakawan

Puente del Malagonlong

Puente de Francisco de Asis

Puente de Isabel II

Puente de Urbiztondo

Puente de la Prinsesa

Alitao Bridge

For just an hour I had fun in Tayabas, it was really fun and rich experience even though it was that short. I hope to visit again Tayabas next time, especially the historical bridges. Until my next #ncdroadtrip!

All photos are taken using a Canon EOS M3

Related links:

Southern Tagalog Roadtrip Itinerary from Bicol
Day 1: Places Visit in Quezon, Laguna, Batangas for a Day
Day 2: Places to Visit in Taal, Batangas

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#NcdFoodTrip: Amici Pazzi Naga

Naga City - Countless restaurants has been opening month after month and it's becoming hard to keep up with them. Some restaurants are not even situated in prime locations that as far as subdivisions and residences turned restaurants is becoming a trend. Space is not even an issue, as many cafes and restaurants now are becoming smaller and more personal.

Good food plus crazy companions can make the best memories as we go through our daily challenges in life. An Italian inspired restaurant opened last year called "Amici Pazzi" at the ground floor of JP II, Bagumbayan primarily catering to students but has been noticeably for all walks of life too. When translated, "Amici Pazzi" means "Crazy Friends".  As a first timer, you might even misread it as Pizza, but it's not and they do not serve pizza, well not yet. I'm really delighted to share about this relatively new place that you can also consider for your food trips with your crazy friends. For those who are not familiar of its location, it's part of the old Bigg's Bagumbayan in between Parochial and USI. On the photo above, Amici Pazzi is literally beside the waiting shade and right infront of 7-Eleven Bagumbayan.

App and about. Amici Pazzi is the very first restaurant using the proudly local made Mobile Order Taker from Nueva Caceres Technology Solutions Inc. delivering new technology when ordering with the use of a mobile application. A fancy way of ordering indeed and it's about time for Naga to have this kind of advancement.

The place is somehow small, so I suggest you visit before the peak hours starts kicking in. An early lunch or dinner isn't a bad idea especially if you get to try Amici' Pazzi's offerings. It's air-conditioned with glass windows all around. We dined during noon time, but I bet the place will have this lovely mood at night. There are also high chairs near the door just in case you are on a solo flight. Just as their tag would say "cozy place for crazy friends" you might end up being friends as well with the staff as they are so nice and very accommodating.

CRAZY AFFORDABLE / REASONABLY PRICED. All of the pastas are priced at P99 which consists of Chicken Alfredo, Creamy Carbonara, Beef Bolognese,  Chicken Pesto, Seafood Pesto, Tuna Gambasetti, Spanish Sardines and Pasta Negra. Rice meals are also at P99 like Porkchop with Rosemary, Chicken Cordon Bleu, Shrimp and Veggies and a rice bowl, Beef Salpicao which is also at P99. Fresh fruit shakes like apple, banana and mango surprisingly costs P49 only! Just wow! 

Given the price, the serving and the taste? I dare not complain. Amici Pazzi has the most affordable pasta there is in Naga without sacrificing the quality of the food. In some other establishment, you'll get the same serving (or even less) with that of Amici but at around P160 or higher.

For take out orders, they charge an additional P5.00, probably it's for the container. They also cater to events and group gatherings too. You may just inquire from them about it.

Top of my list is the Tuna Gambasetti with a hint of chili to spice up things a bit but not too much, topped with tuna flakes, shrimp, bell pepper, spices and Parmesan cheese.

Next would be the Pasta Negra which is an oil-based pasta with chili flakes, chopped parsley and cheese on top. Main ingredient is the squid which gives color to the pasta. Don't get fooled by the chili flakes, it's not that hot anyway. But as for the taste, I would rank it next to the Tuna Gambasetti.  Approve!

 The Creamy Carbonara and Seafood Marinara may both have good serving size but I guess I wasn't that impressed. Though most of the time I would go for an oil-based pasta, the Seafood Marinara seemed like a little bland with a sauce that was quite ordinary. Well that's just me, but hey, don't get me wrong, seafood lovers will still be able to appreciate it for sure. 

For hungry folks, serving can be good for solo, but just look at the plates, it can also be good for sharing.

For rice meals, one of my friends ordered the Chicken Cordon Bleu and again, for P99, it's just way above the average.

Next is the Beef Salpicao, which I loved! Beef was tender and juicy, just look at the colorful bowl below! This rice bowl from Amici Pazzi is definitely worthy to come back for.

Amici's FRESH fruit shakes is definitely the most affordable I've seen around. Loved the apple shake! They also have a Strawberry Frappe (using real strawberry) for only P85 available this month of February.

They also have coffee-based frappes for only P85. Hopefully when we come back I'll be able to try to frappes and see if how they fare from other shops.

 

For a restaurant this small, I can rate Amici Pazzi with 4 out of 5 stars.

Quoting my friend, "Amici Pazzi serves habit forming delicious pastas and frappes that will make you crazy about coming back. Their offerings are best enjoyed with friends." I always believe that restaurants in Naga has its own uniqueness and Amici's affordability will be hard to beat by the others I must say. 

 

Thank you very much Dave and the rest of Amici Pazzi Team!

Nice to see a good old friend too, thanks O'neal!

Dave Bercasio, one of the owners of Amici Pazzi posing for Apple of solesearchingsoul.com

AMICI PAZZI
Store Hours: 10 AM to 9:00 PM
Location: Corner Bagumbayan Avenue and Ateneo Avenue
Email: amicipazzinaga@gmail.com
Instagram: @pazzieamici
Facebook: Amici Pazzi
Contact No. (054) 205 8620

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