It was my first time to attend a food event for bloggers. I honestly didn't know what to expect. I was fortunate this time around for the launching of Manang's Velvet Sundae and The Ultimate Crispy Chicken Burger.
I braved the summer heat for a taste of that new sundae that looks enticing in this extreme summer heat.
Upon arriving at Manang's Chicken Tomas Morato branch, I was greeted by Lan and registered for the afternoon event. Jill Borja, the President and CEO of Manang's Chicken welcomed me and led me to the cocktail table with a bowl of potato chips for the guests.
It was my first time to try these chips as I denied myself several times due to diet excuses even if I get the chicken wings most of the time. The chips were already laid out on the table minutes before I arrived but I was surprised that it was still very crispy. From the looks of it, it was made of real potatoes and freshly fried in each store. Creamy cheese and Garlic mayo were served on the side. I liked the garlic mayo more as it had a little bit of kick to it.
The program started with the story of Manang's chicken and where they are today. Then of course the moment has arrived to try the new products.
First we were introduced to The Ultimate Crispy Chicken Burger. It is a double fried chicken thigh fillet coated in Manang's sauce (you have the option to go for soy-garlic, mild spicy or extra spicy), a scoop of coleslaw in a warm keiser bun. I was surprised by the size of it. Each bite had that great crunch from the chicken coated on the warm soft bun. I would prefer going for the spicier sauces the next time I try this in the stores. The Ultimate Crispy Chicken Sandwich is available in solo (PHP 109) and in a meal with regular chips (PHP 135).
My excitement for the new dessert was further built when we had to play two games during the program. I was busy munching on my sandwich and getting eager for dessert during this time. They let 3 participants try the soft serve machine though and create their own sundae.
At last, we were served the Velvet Sundae (PHP 45). I made sure I had everything in my spoon--soft chocolate cake, ice cream, chocolate syrup amd chocolate chips. It was a play of textures and temperatures in each bite. The cake was really warm and freshly baked for each order. I liked that it had the right amount of sweetness to it. The cold ice cream gave a different twist and the chocolate chips simply added a nice crunch to it. I was surprised that it was priced really cheap.
At least I could satisfy my cravings of cake or brownie ala mode when I'm on a tight budget.
I was with Gelo Reyes of Gelorific http://geloreyes.tumblr.com/ and his friends, Insel and Carlo that afternoon.
I'm glad I'll have something new to try at Manang's Chicken. The Ultimate Crispy Chicken Sandwich are just great for those days that I must resist eating rice. The Velvet Sundae is gift in this heat.
Check out Manang's Chicken Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/manangschicken to find the nearest branch in your area.
Usually when I bring a friend with me during yoga practice in Kapitolyo, we always ended up eating afterwards. That's the reason why I ended up twice at Mad Mark's.
My first visit was with my sister Titit and her friend Jenny. We decided to try out Mad Mark's after yoga on a Sunday morning.
Titit and I decided to split the Chicken Meltdown sandwich (Man Sandwich size) at 260 PHP. They sliced our sandwich in half and served it to us separately which made our lives easier. The sandwich was loaded with juicy grilled chicken breast with mozzarella melted on top. This is really good for the health conscious but I think this will taste better with a dollop of mayo or dressing.
Jenny got the half Mariner Sandwich (150 PHP) with fried fish fillet and dressing.
We got some Herb Parmesan Fries (160 PHP) to go with our sandwich. So far this is the best fries I've had. The pesto had a good kick to it and it was loaded with freshly grated parmesan cheese.
On my second time at Mad Mark's, I was with Karen after yoga class on a weekday. Now this was the time that I tried the Mariner sandwich. I loved how the dressing blended with the fish and a good crunch from the toasted baguette completed the medly of flavors and textures in my mouth. I recommend this one. If you're not fond of creamy dressings, you can request them to tone it down a bit or go for the Chicken Meltdown.
Again, the Herb Parmesan Fries was the chosen sidekick for our meal.
We ended our meal with two scoops of their Artisan Ice Cream (98 PHP). We picked the Madagascar Vanilla Bean and the Cavendish chip. We loved both flavors and the serving was generous for the quality of ice cream that is rich but not too heavy. Both vanilla and banana flavors stood out and gave character to this dessert.
I loved how cozy Mad Mark's is and their staff was friendly. They gave us suggestions and let's you take your time in choosing what to order. The food was worth every penny and there seems something for everyone. Will defintely go back. I still swear on those fries.
Mad Mark's is in East Capitol Drive, Brgy Kapitolyo Pasig.
