Milo Overload: Cereal Drink with Soya

I was sent with several sachets of Milo Overload several weeks ago. Seeing that it's more than just a normal Milo drink with its "cereal drink with soya" description, it got me very interested.

Without any kissing in the a$$, Milo is one chocolate drink I really love - in fact it's my favorite when at work. It keeps me from losing my focus when I become hungry.

So I decided to give it a try one morning. I partnered it with the good ol' pandesal (bread), since I'm drinking it hot. Not to say that you can't drink it cold, huh!

One sachet of Milo Overload is good for one serving. At roughly Php6.00 per sachet, we get the same hearty and flavorful Milo chocolate milk, but with combined soft cereals and soya powdered milk. 

Simply pouring the contents in a glass, putting in hot water, and mixing it instantly gives a healthy and delicious drink. Since it has bits of cereals, it's more filling than just having the Milo milk. Since it is very easy to prepare, drinking it anytime of the day is so convenient.

Try it for yourself!

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Spicy Bikkuri Ramen, Ebi Buns, Cheese Gyoza from Ramen Bar

It's not a secret on this blog that I love Japanese food. So when I was invited to try out new items at Ramen Bar in Robinsons Magnolia, the foodie in me got excited!

Ramen Bar is located at the third floor of the newly opened Robinsons Magnolia. It's at the left side of the mall, near a rear entrance. You wouldn't have a hard time finding it, since it is brightly lit and has its big sign board.

From the seasonal menu, I ordered the Bikkuri Ramen (Php380), which is miso mixed with chili and minced pork. I was afraid that it's too spicy, but still decided to give it a try. I guess my taste for spicy food has become better and stronger over time. 

I love how the ramen was served fresh and hot from the kitchen. Apart from the fact that it was spicy and very flavorful, Ramen Bar did a good job in making sure the noodles weren't overcooked. The eggs could be a bit wetter, but it's not a biggie. And oh, the minced pork had a generous serving too! I did not make a wrong choice after all. Love it to up to the last drop!

Another something to try are the Ebi Buns (Php220). In between the mantou (Chinese steamed buns) is the  shrimp patty lying on top of a piece of lettuce, flavored with a bit of wasabi mayo. Since I liked it, I took two buns, one after another. If you're afraid of the "wasabi" - please don't, because it's not spicy. It's yummy.

Lastly, I managed to try out the Cheese Gyoza (Php180). At five pieces per order, this appetizer is unique for its combination of cheese and pork, friend to crunchiness. Each bite gave me the usual ground pork mixed with veggies, and of course, the cheese.

Other items included in the seasonal menu are as follows:

• Shoyu 2.0 Ramen - Shoyu Ramen with a new lighter pork/chicken broth;
• Kakuni King Ramen - Generous portions of Kakuni in the new lighter soup broth;
• Curry Chahan  

Depending on how big your appetite is, one could finish a bowl of ramen by himself - just like me. However, those who want to try several other items can make do with sharing two ramen bowls, and additional appetizers and side orders. This way, you'll end up feeling full and satisfied.

For more information and updates, 'Like' Ramen Bar Facebook Page and follow them on Twitter @RamenBar.

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Ramen Bar
3/F Robinsons Magnolia
Aurora Blvd. cor. Hemady St., New Manila, Quezon City

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Yoogane Brings Korean Taste to Manila

One of Korea's most visited restaurants, Yoogane has been franchised by a group of owners to bring the Korean (spicy) taste here in Manila, specifically at Il Terrazzo in Tomas Morato, Quezon City. 

Yoogane is known for its Dak Galbi, a delicious South Korean dish generally made by stir-frying marinated diced chicken in a gochujang (chili pepper paste) based sauce, and sliced cabbage, sweet potato, scallions, onions and tteok (rice cake) together on a hot plate.

The first thing I noticed upon entering the restaurant were the colorful and fun-looking paintings on the walls and the cooking tubes above the tables. There was also one area with two tables, surrounded by a wooden barrier, great for small groups of about 12pax.

Yoogane's Grilled Pork Belly Strips (Php180) isn't bad at all. It was cooked just right without the over toast taste, and came out tenderly enough to enjoy it piece by piece. What made me like it even better is that it wasn't too greasy as normal pork belly strips would be.

The Chap Chae (Php200) is the usual Korean noodles stir fried in sesame oil with various vegetables. This dish was flavored with soy sauce and sweetened a bit with sugar. Sesame seeds served as garnish. 

They also have Beef Bulgogi (Php220), which consists of marinated thinly sliced beef. I would say it tasted normal, but at least it wasn't cooked in a bad taste.

The Korean Style Seafood Pancake (Php165) is a surprise awaiting to be eaten. It's filled with small pieces of squid and shrimp, and chopped veggies. It has a side of sweet sauce, which makes the pancake flavorful.

Now on to the main dish - dak galbi. There are three ways on how we can enjoy it:

1. Choose from the chef specialties or main dishes from the menu. This includes Marinated Chicken Galbi, Char-grilled Chicken Galbi, Sliced Pork Belly, Assorted Seafood, etc. Prices range from Php190 to Php240.
2. Choose your add ons. This includes mozzarella cheese, golden mushrooms, sweet potato slice, ramen noodle, white rice, and more, with prices ranging from Php40 to Php90 each.
3. Wait for it as the staff cooks it for you.

Pictured above are the Mozzarella Stuffed Dok Boki (Php70). These are Korean rice cakes with mozzarella cheese in it, which tastes really good when mixed with the main dishes.

This is the Marinated Seafood Fried Rice (Php190). Instead of rice, we asked to replace it with ramen noodles. Depending on the level of spiciness you can take in, you'd either like it or not. As for me, I absolutely love it! The pieces of shrimp, squid, and fish mixed with ramen and Korean spices were definitely a good combination.

Another spicy dish that we got is the Char-Grilled Chicken Galbi (Php220). We had it with sweet potato and mozzarella stuffed dok boki. The chicken was not cooked nicely, without being dry. When partnered with plain rice, it's perfect!

I don't usually eat Korean food, since I'm more into Japanese cuisine. However, Yoogane gave me a great reason to come back and taste the other Korean dishes out there. I must say that eating spicy food may not be for everyone, but I recommend that you try it out once in a while for variation and experience. You could request for a mild spice if you wish.

To get more updates and information, follow them on Twitter @yooganephil and like their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/YooganePhilippines/.

Yoogane Dak Galbi Philippines
G/F Il Terrazzo Mall,
Tomas Morato Ave. Cor. Scout Madrinan St.,
Brgy. South Triangle, Quezon City
Open Monday to Sunday, 11am to 11pm
Tel. No: (02)966 2348 / (63917) 515 7960

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Create Personalized Karaoke Invite and Spend Happy-Together Time

More than money, I really value relationships the most in this lifetime. It’s the relationships that make life more meaningful and worth it. It’s the precious moments with friends and loved ones that enrich each experience from any activity. It’s the victories and downfalls with people who matter to me that leave life-long lessons, which help me become a better person.

Spending time with the ones that matter most to us can be done personally or virtually. Whatever way you choose to do it, it all starts with a simple invitation.

I have recently discovered the Spend Happy-Together Time app on Facebook, which allows us to get our personalized invitation, karaoke style. I find the app cool, because it’s a one-of-a-kind video invitation. And since it’s personalized, the person you’re inviting will feel extra special.

Here’s a sample video I made to invite my friend Sabrina to Baguio. Listening to it makes me smile, since it’s so cool! The app is personalized, singing the invitation to the tune of The Turtles’ song called “So Happy Together”.

Link: https://apps.facebook.com/refreshvideoke/index.php/gallery/gallery_f/109

You, too can make your own personalized karaoke invitation in a short span of time. Simply follow the steps below and you’re on your way to having one of the coolest virtual invitations to spend happy time together.

1. Go to the Spend Happy-Together Time Facebook app at https://www.facebook.com/bpi/app_414238415306251.
2. Personalize your invitation by filling in the blanks.
3. Once submitted, they will record the lyrics for you.
4. Wait for an email from [email protected] informing you that your karaoke invite is now ready.
5. Send it to your friend and enjoy the bonding moment with each other!

What are you waiting for? Whether you want to invite your friend or loved one to a game at school, an out of town trip or just a simple dinner at the nearby restaurant, starting it off with a cool karaoke invitation will surely make them feel special.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post in partnership with BPI.

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Oishi Marty's Invites YOU to Rock 'en Roll!

Oishi's very own Marty's Vegetarian Chicharon is calling all Filipino college students, 16-25 years old, living in Metro Manila within school year 2012-2013 to showcase your talents in a different kind of rock 'en roll! Drop your notes, textbooks and energy drinks; school's still in but The Marty's are coming!

In it's very O, Wow! fashion, Oishi is giving fresh music talents a new reason to rock this semester, with a battle to make it big in the music scene as The Marty’s. 

Hold your horses, because this is a different kind of inter-college band face off! Instead of sending bands into battle, The Marty’s will bring aspiring musicians from various universities together, so they can heat up the stage and rock as one band.

Participating in the The Marty's rock competition is easy as 1-2-3:

1. Simply go to The Marty's website and click on 'Apply.' Choose whether you're applying as a Vocalist, Guitarist, Drummer or Bassist.
2. Upload a 2 - 3 minute audition video of yourself singing, playing the guitar, bass or drums to the song of your choice. Videos with offensive content will automatically be disqualified so don't be a punk.
3. Get your family, friends and schoolmates to vote for you by sharing, liking and viewing your audition video.
   

You should impress the judges - actor rapper Ramon Bautista, rock advocate Gang Badoy, actress Saab Magalona and rocker-director RA Rivera. Eight finalists will be chosen, but only four will make The Marty’s. The final four gets to tour as a band, win P100,000, and might just be well on their way to be part of Manila’s band scene!

Which spotlight are you are you taking - vocalist, drummer, bassist or guitarist? Get ready, The Marty’s are here! Deadline for submission is until November 16, 2012, 11:59PM.

For more information, log on to www.themartys.com.ph.

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Coloud Headphones: Putting the Boom to Your Boring Day

Over the years, headphones have shifted from merely just being a best friend during long plane rides or at DJ show-offs in clubs. Today, they now sport bright colors that are meant to be shown off if you want to stand out from the crowd. Needless to say, it has become part of an audiophile's fashion statement. With Coloud Headphones, the looks in itself already puts a boom into one's boring day.

First Impressions

Today I get the chance to review a pair dubbed "The Boom" from Swedish-based company Coloud. I think the name Coloud is very fitting of the brand they convey, which brings me to a possible equation: Coloud = COlor LOUD. 

Just by holding the packaging, I already know that I was getting a pair of headphones that had a lot of aesthetic value in mind. This made me worry a little, as the focus might have been put too much on how it looks, rather than how it should sound. The design and color scheme here reminded me a lot of a fellow Swedish-based Urbanears Zinken. The major difference though is their color palette of subtle pastels versus Coloud's screaming neon colors.

The pair I'm holding has a black / cyan / blue combination that just exudes eye candy. Personally, I prefer subtlety over the loud combinations (bright yellow and tangerine orange is hard to pull off), but Coloud's colors certainly make a statement. Case in point: I couldn't even walk four feet in the office without people turning heads and asking about the pair I was wearing. This can be both a good and bad thing, depending on your personality.

Construction

Coloud makes it a point to showcase that they believe in minimalism. As quoted from their website, "Our headphones are crafted with minimal parts and feature a mechanical construction, making them super durable and built to withstand the pressures of everyday listening. What we do add to our headphones, however, are useful features." And minimalist, this pair is. No frills, no bells and whistles. Just everything essential to have your basic headphones with a microphone and remote, but made to look nice.

That's not to say they overlooked quality though -- the materials Coloud used for The Boom both look and feel expensive. From the headband to the foam pads and down to the plug, I couldn't find a flaw with the pair to say that it looked cheap in any way, considering that these are relatively cheap compared to the class it competes in. I was impressed with how solid this pair was, as it not only looked good, but it also felt very durable and well-made.

Accessories

Similar to other Coloud Headphones, The Boom features a standard microphone and push remote, a tangle-free flat cord, and the Zound Lasso, or basically a flexible plug that doubles as a lock to keep your cables in place when the pair is not in use. Useful features in its own right, but not something that would make me pick the brand exclusively.

The box also comes with a Coloud logo sticker, a one-pager that shows the technical specifications of the headphones, and a warranty card. I should also mention that the package is actually made of fully recyclable materials, and while this usually means cheaper looking containers, they actually went ahead and made sure those look good too. Man, these guys know how to make their products look outstanding. You really get your money's worth here.

Sound Quality

Unlike most headphones that go for a more bass-rich sound, The Boom focuses more on sound clarity. I got to appreciate the artist's words more and was able to hear the mids and highs, which normally get drowned out by the bass. However, I find the bass response a little too shy for my taste. The voice-biased quality makes this pair good for calls and acoustic performances, but might be under-appreciated by most people who use headphones for R&B and hip-hop genres. Even at full volume, the sound really held up and didn't show signs of cracking.

Noise cancellation was also an issue for me as it only blocked about 60% of ambient noise without music. The ear cups didn't provide enough coverage to provide a full isolation to outside noise. On the upside, the 3D ergonomic design of the pair really shown through and made the pair very comfortable to wear. They were not displaced easily, even during rigorous movement. I wouldn't say the sound quality was bad; I just think it could have been better.

Final Rating

To make it easier to summarize the over-all experience, I'll rate the Coloud Boom headphones based on three categories: construction, sound quality and aesthetics.

• Construction: 4.5 / 5
• Sound quality: 3.5 / 5
• Aesthetics: 5 / 5

Over-all, the construction of the headphones was impressive. Not only from the pair itself, but the packaging doesn't disappoint either. Some parts of the headphones felt a little too plastic-like, but it did little to cheapen the pair.

Sound quality was a bit of a letdown, but it wasn't terrible. I think this came down to preference on my end. But the sound just wasn't full enough to let me appreciate my music. Nevertheless, the cool design and unique color combinations really make this a stand-out pair from the others out in the market.

The biggest factor for me here is the price point. At Php1,850 a pair, I certainly wouldn't mind shelling out that much for a set that would rival headphones at the Php5,000 and above categories, which perform almost the same.

I still don't believe in using headphones as fashion accessories, but for this pair I would be forgiving. Instead of a scoff, I'll just give a smile and a nod, because I know the person has good taste (in good design, at least).

Standard Retail Price for Coloud The Boom: Php1,850

Coloud Headphones are available at the following locations:

• Astrovision
• Automatic Center
• Avant
• Beyond The Box
• Bratpack
• Buzz
• Digital Hub
• Digital Walker
• Electroworld
• iCenter
• iGig
• iStore
• iStudio
• iStudio
• Mobile 1
• Power Hub
• Technoholics
• Urbanathletics

Editor's Note: This article was written by Arbi Bautista, a special writer and contributor of Glich's Life. Arbi is an IT Consultant in one of the biggest global IT companies. He is a music and photography enthusiast, and a great public speaker too. Revisions to this article were done by yours truly prior to posting. You can follow Arbi on Twitter (@sowhatifimmaria). - Glenn / Glich

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