Too Many Drinks, Too Little Time

Xintiandi, Shanghai

2011-07-31T13:48:00.006+08:00

If you find yourself in Shanghai's Xintiandi, try the Fountain Bistro and Wine Bar. It is near the fountain (surprise!) and it serves beer, cocktails and wines. Food is great, too! Their Clam Chowder Soup is filling enough. For big eaters, add in an order of Fish and Chips or the Roasted Chicken.

It has a good selection of Tapas.

A mojito costs RMB60, affordable in the standards of Shanghai.

Fountain Bistro & Wine Bar
Lane 181, Taicang Road, North Block
Shanghai Xintiandi
Open until 2 am

How To Get Through A Really Long Day

2011-07-08T20:09:00.007+08:00

(The original images of the following steps are not mine. I just found them in an old email and edited them. Enjoy!)

Cheers! (This could work with bottled cocktails as well, I think)

Remembering Summer

2011-06-09T16:42:00.002+08:00

So, I was commissioned to contribute for this article on www.spot.ph. It was a tough task but someone had to do it :) Read the entire article here.

Grand Wine Experience: Super Late Post

2011-04-01T14:11:00.008+08:00

It's sad I haven't been able to blog since my last visit in Thailand. But the good news is, I've been able to attend the 10th Grand Wine Experience last November 19 and was even asked to write a few lines about it for F&B World Magazine's February 2011 issue. Quoting what I submitted:

"A decade after it was first launched, the Grand Wine Experience marked the milestone with a legendary evening at the New World Hotel in Makati. The first and still the most prestigious annual wine event, this time with the theme “Evolution,” was the brainchild of Ralph Joseph and rest of the Joseph siblings Bobby, Ronnie and Raymond. The wine selection was superb as usual with a sizeable representation of the Old World regions from France, Spain, Italy, Portugal and even Hungary. There were also champagnes, more spirits that debuted at the event and more food. The nightlong entertainment was provided by the Sabor Latino band.

From its humble beginnings, this event has been transformed into a not-to-be-missed with guests in a bigger number year after year. This year’s affair was again graced by Manila’s glitterati, celebrities, diplomats, VIPs from the hospitality and tourism industry, hotels and resorts general managers, restaurant owners, members of the different Chambers of Commerce & Industry, wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and culinary school owners. This wine spectacle’s success has proven its legacy in the young but fast growing Philippine wine industry."

This year's Grand Wine Experience is indeed something to look forward to.

P.S. This cheese was awesome!

Boat Ride and Sirocco

2010-09-28T14:06:00.009+08:00

We boarded a Chinese junk (at Shangri-La, Silom) and sailed for a few hours along the Bangkok river. It would have been enjoyable had it not been for a headache I always seem to have in the afternoons when I am in Bangkok. The junk was specially rented. We had drinks and dinner on board.

Lucky we missed the rain!

It was a lovely ride!

Later, we went to Sirocco at Lebua Tower, said to be the "world's largest al fresco restaurant." Located on the 64th floor, the view was fantastic! I had a mojito for THB450. I would recommend one of the house specialties, however.

Sirocco
State Tower
1055/111 Silom Road
Bangkok, 10500, Thailand
02-6249555

Soju, So Good

2010-09-16T14:17:00.004+08:00

This bottle of Soju, a JINRO CHAMISUL ORIGINAL SOJU, has been sitting on top of my fridge since last weekend. Finally opened it today, at lunch. And boy, it was good even if it was at room temperature! I got this bottle for Php75 at a newly opened Korean Grocery store along Pioneer, Mandaluyong City, Philippines, across Joey Pepperoni.

We have been wanting to redeem a box of Krispy Kreme doughnuts since last weekend and finally did so last night. I think doughnuts are good with beer (and soju!) as these carbs balance the bitterness, and the oils line your stomach. However, while it makes drinking more enjoyable, it is most unhealthy.

I will stick with the soju.

Pulutan Explained

2010-09-09T10:21:00.002+08:00

I just realized that there is no explanation on what "unconventional pulutan" is.

According to Wikipedia: "Pulutan (comes from the Filipino word pulutin which literally means "something that is picked up") is a term roughly analogous to the English term "finger food". It originally was a snack accompanied with liquor or beer but has found its way into Philippine cuisine as appetizers or, in some cases, main dishes, as in the case of sisig."

To this definition, I would say the opposite can also be true. There are those pulutan that were main dishes first, before they were discovered to be good with beer or the like. As for me, one of the unconventional pulutan I have ever tried and actually loved is a combination of crushed crackers and tuna in can.

In Dumaguete, Have Balut and Tanduay Ice

2010-09-01T09:56:00.000+08:00

It was a long weekend in the Philippines so we went on a sort of spur of the moment trip to Dumaguete (we actually went to Siquijor and Apo islands, too)

Photo courtesy of Pauline Derige

Near the famed boulevard of Dumaguete City, we settled for a round of Tanduay Ice at this place called Blue Monkey Grill.

The next night, we had Julien, a French guy traveling with us experience balut! This delicacy is now part of the appetizers menu in restaurants and thus, make for unconventional pulutan.

UPDATE: Finally have a video of the balut-eating experience. Enjoy!

GPS

2010-08-25T14:28:00.004+08:00

Gilbey's Premium Strength is currently my bottled drink of choice. A clear, light drink with a sweet, citrusy taste, it has the nice, smooth buzz from light beer without the bloated feeling.

Just saying.

John & Yoko

2010-08-14T13:40:00.005+08:00

Last night, we went out for dinner and a drink at John & Yoko, Greenbelt 5. I have been there a couple of times but it's the first time that I tried their Vodka Lychee. For P118 a pop, it's quite good.

Note on the Dinner: The salmon sashimi was okay. The Seafood Shabu-Shabu was a feast if ordered just for two (I believe this can be split among four people). The place, as always, was busy although we arrived quite early for dinner and was able to talk without having to raise our voices, if only for a while.

TGIF's Mojitos

2010-08-07T13:59:00.004+08:00

Went to TGIF at Trinoma, a convenient location for peope who think MRT is a gift from heaven (like I do!) I think their Ball Park Nachos is a version of unconventional pulutan because of the sheer volume as seen in the photo (okay, so that's my niece. And no, she did not finish that).

1 Mojito
1 Mojito Apple
1 Ball Park Nachos

Price: Php 736.61 (excluding service charge)

I liked the original mojito more than the apple one. But for Php 174.11 a glass, I just had to find out how to make one.

From Taste of Cuba:

1 teaspoon powdered sugar
Juice from 1 lime (2 ounces)
4 mint leaves
1 sprig of mint
White Rum (2 ounces)
2 ounces club soda

Place the mint leaves into a long mojito glass (often called a "collins" glass) and squeeze the juice from a cut lime over it. You'll want about two ounces of lime juice, so it may not require all of the juice from a single lime. Add the powdered sugar, then gently smash the mint into the lime juice and sugar with a muddler (a long wooden device pictured below, though you can also use the back of a fork or spoon if one isn't available). Add ice (preferably crushed) then add the rum and stir, and top off with the club soda (you can also stir the club soda in as per your taste). Garnish with a mint sprig.

So in the end, I probably don't need a mint sprig.

Thinking in Thailand

2010-07-18T22:40:00.008+08:00

The photo was taken at Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, Mindanao, Philippines. But the thoughts came while drinking a glass of wine in Thailand. See the photo of the bottle below. Not exactly came but more of found. They are not mine but these words describe exactly how I have been these past few weeks.

If you like a mid-range place for a decent Thai meal and some beer, head to Cabbages and Condoms Restaurant on Sukhumvit Soi 12. It's walking distance from the Sheraton Hotel that is near the Asoke BTS/MRT station. It has amusing decor and an interesting story. Read about it here.

Happy Thirstday!

2010-07-08T13:30:00.005+08:00

SOCO. I am gonna learn how to make you. Where do you find SOCO? Check out the address in this previous post.

This is what you should say when someone's forcing you to tell who you like.

Happy Thirstday!

Beeramisu, Anyone?

2010-06-28T08:58:00.000+08:00

Through Married to Chocolate (thank you, Kris), I found this recipe by Working Class Foodies. Awesome!

What you need:

Filling
1 pint heavy Cream
1 pound of Mascarpone
2 eggs
1 cup powdered sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

Crust:
lady fingers
beer (mocha stout and pumpkin beer)
Cocoa powder

Cocktails All-You-Can

2010-06-26T09:21:00.002+08:00

Went out with the girl behind this blog that aptly puts this entry under the tag "musings."

1029 Resto Bar & Grill

Sgt. Esguerra Ave.,

Quezon City

They only accept cash payments. Cocktails all you can until 8pm for P150!

We tried the tuna sisig and wouldn't recommend it but the pitcher each of Screwdriver and the Margarita (for P150 each) were good buys.

I Have Two Beers

2010-06-06T03:37:00.005+08:00

Sure I went to Vegas but the only thing I drank there were Shirley Temples. That is something I just had to do. I mean, not drink in Vegas. You should try it once. It's funny how when I declared it over a round table that I am not going to drink in Vegas, everyone thought I won't be able not to drink but I did (yahoo!). The next time (well, if there is a next time), I will do the "standard" and that is to have an alcohol-infused nightout along the strip.

It's in Chicago where I finally got some bottles of beers and a couple of vodka tonics (I also had a glass of Yellow Tail Pinot Noir on one lazy evening). I loved the freshness of Corona with a slice of lime the first, the second, the third, ... well, until the last bottle. On Memorial Day Weekend, I crashed a children's party (yup, you read that right). And it was there that I got introduced to 312. And I so loved it!

That said...

Beer Hybrids

2010-05-27T23:50:00.005+08:00

Found these recipes from Men's Health, Nov 2009 issue (US edition). Quite excited to try them out soon.

SPICY LADY
Rim glass with raw sugar. In a shaker, muddle the 2 tsp cayenne, lemon slices, 1/2 teaspoon raw sugar, and 1/2 tsp lemon juice. Pour mixture into the rimmed glass and add some ice. Top with light-bodied beer, say Corona. Stir a little.

CERVEZA PREPARADA
Rim a glass with salt. Add a dash of hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce and fill the glass with beer (lager). Top with 1/2 oz lime juice.

Sagada is Ganduyan

2010-04-07T11:01:00.001+08:00

The Lenten holiday brought a dozen (and then one, Jeff) of us to Sagada, with the main man behind http://www.visitsagada.com/ , Benj. I had a very nice time and the trip was very memorable (spelunking, taking the long walk to our inn with just one flashlight that really shone in the darkness, and a birthday celebration).

To cap off the evenings (and warm ourselves a bit), we drank The Bar, gin and a bottle of red wine.

Hanging coffins at Echo Valley, Sagada

Big Falls

If we weren't on a hurry, it would have been nice to stay longer at the Big Falls and have a couple of beers. Don't you think?

On our last night, we stayed at Residential Lodge. I had a massage and was able to find out why it was called Sagada that I later shared when we were having a few drinks at the cozy living/kitchen/dining area.

Guess what was on the table?

Benj accidentally left the bottle of Vodka Hanoi on the bus on our way home so we never got to try it.

How do I love Gin? Let me count the bottles

2010-03-29T12:18:00.003+08:00

This photo consists of a few bottles of gin and a vodka. Consumed through several months (from October 2009), shared by two to three people at a time. In any case, one of the simplest thing to do with gin (except drink it with water as your chaser) is to mix it with orange juice and ice. Apparently, this is called Abbey cocktail. How I mix mine is 1 part of orange juice (Del Monte) to half a part of gin. Serve in a glass half-filled with ice.

The bottle of Nutrilite Daily is how I try to keep myself healthy. Try being the operative word.

La Pampa!

2010-03-23T13:27:00.004+08:00

A bad photo of a very good wine. This was taken at La Pampa, apparently the first Argentinian Steak House in Hong Kong. If you are not sure what to order, the manager can always recommend what is best with either your food or your wine. If a bottle of red is your bet, Trapiche Malbec is a very nice one.

It is located on Staunton St, Soho, Hong Kong.

R&J Bulalohan

2010-03-15T12:04:00.000+08:00

Along Boni Avenue, Mandaluyong City (across Mandaluyong City Hospital and Chow King), this is one place where we frequent to. Not for the beers, though. Not yet at least. It has a very provincial ambiance to it. Mixed crowd. Walls are peppered with photos and autographs of celebrities who have celebrated with or at R&J (they cater, too).

A bucket costs P192 only. Open 24 hours. Cheap food. With a karaoke machine.

I want to try the Tanduay Ice, soon.

The Distillery Jupiter

2010-03-09T09:53:00.000+08:00

(Photo by Edgar Alan Zeta-Yap)

I would have never been introduced to this place had it been not to a going away party at Encore, formerly Embassy, Super Club that ended a bit early before everyone had their share of fun ( a beer at Embassy costs P120, entrance fee of P500 gets you three rounds of drinks from a pre-chosen selection). Coolers of imported beers etc line a long wall and the prices are okay, considering these are hard to find brews (with some names I can't pronounce properly because they are too foreign ;p). I loved the Sake Bomb, which was sake in a shot glass dropped in a bigger glass of beer. I suppose this has lesser alcohol content than beer-gin.

The bigger area has a bar with a well-stocked shelf (the photo above is just a portion of this floor-to-ceiling shelf) so you can definitely enjoy your favorite poison on the rocks or mixed.

The Distillery
20 Jupiter St., Brgy. Bel-Air
Makati City
Business Hours: 6 pm to 4 am

THIRSTday Group at Central

2010-03-03T03:45:00.006+08:00

(Image courtesy of Lynn Labios)

Where : Central Barbequeboy – Pioneer Branch (inside Madison Square)near Boni MRT Station, Robinsons Mall Pioneer, Globe Telecoms Bldg., RFM Corp.

There is an ongoing promo of buy 2 take 1 on house cocktails: Bad Girl, Surfer Boy, Soco, and Bad Trip. You also get a plate of prawn crackers (kropek) for free.

Meet Squeeze Me. Next to Soco, this is what we usually order.

Quattro

2010-02-23T03:26:00.002+08:00

Valentine's day fell on a Sunday so I took one of my single girl friends on a date. She was going through a tough time and needed to be listened to. See all the mixes available on "the day" as posted on the wall? But we had the usual. A Macho Mug of SanMig Light at Quattro located along Timog Avenue, Quezon City. From EDSA, it is on your left.

By the way, Xaymaca is gone. And Popoy's beside Nommu is now Pipey's.

The Bar at Nagsasa Cove, Zambales

2010-02-03T03:00:00.000+08:00

It was an awesome Full Moon Weekend at Nagsasa Cove last January 30-31. Our itinerary was simple:

3:00 a.m. Meet at Victory Liner Caloocan (across Grand
Central Mall, near Monumento Rotonda)
*the bus leaves at 4:30 a.m. for San Antonio, Zambales

4:30 a.m. Bus from Manila to San Antonio, Zambales (3
hours)

7:30 a.m. ETA in San Antonio. Buy food in market. Take
tricycle to Pundaquit.

8:30 a.m. Pundaquit. From there, take boat to Nagsasa. Enjoy!

It was the first time I was introduced to The Bar Apple. And it was really good! See how many bottles we finished? (Well, some of these were Orange flavor).

24-Hour Tagaytay Hangout

2009-12-28T23:26:00.003+08:00

After a dinner at Plato Platina, Blue Wave, my friend William suggested go to Tagaytay. And so we did (at 2 in the morning!). We took the Santa Rosa exit and turned right after the Tagaytay market. This place is past where Mushroom Burger is but is also on the left side of the road from Manila.

Beer, bulalo and breeze. Beat that.

Homer's

2009-12-14T00:42:00.003+08:00

Last month, we were invited to a gig of Jeepney Joyride. The trumpeteer, Melvin, asked us to go to Homer's which was near ABS-CBN in Quezon City. Beer was dirt cheap! Local bands, not the show band kind of bands, played. And it is open 24/7. Limitado, a line of limited items designed by actor-comedian Tado is sold in a corner. The witty remarks on the shirts go very well with how Homer's is. Simple pero rock!

Chocolate and Brandy

2009-12-12T19:00:00.005+08:00

I love the blog of Kris Alcantara! She is one woman who is crazy about chocolates and is kind enough to share no-bake recipes once a week. Here is something she did with brandy, Fudge Brownies.

I have to admit that I don't drink as much brandy if it was for the sake of happiness. I generally prefer gin over brandy. But because I was so inspired of Kris' entry, I decided to give brandy a twist. I mixed in two spoons of chocolate syrup and a spoon of fresh milk into a glass with brandy and ice cubes. I made mint tea and poured it into the mixture. Tadaah! Creamy Chocolate Mint Tea Brandy. Well, it may remind you of Bailey's but this is not as sweet. Try it.

Coron, Palawan

2009-01-02T23:11:00.001+08:00

It was a busy half day. I am just too tired to write about it but Palawan is one of the places one should go to once in your life. At least. Beer in a remote island. Lukewarm beer, maybe. But the beautiful scenery, cool breeze and blue waters make up for it.

7107 Islands Cruise

2008-12-27T01:27:00.001+08:00

Beach. Sunrise. Sunset. Onboard party. Really. Check out http://www.7107islandscruise.net/

Seawind, Boracay

2008-12-22T17:41:00.001+08:00

December 19 -- Seawind was the venue of the coolest beach wedding and party I have ever been to. Nothing beats great company, the beach, and flowing cocktails.

And the post-wedding party was ushered in with glasses of a cocktail specially concocted for this special day: the mingler. The men behind the "Mingler" are Junjun (the inspiration) and Tata (the mixer).

Congratulations to Junjun and best wishes to Heidi!

Vivere Azure

2008-12-16T11:10:00.004+08:00

A deluxe resort hotel south of Metro Manila (Anilao, Mabini, Batangas), a glass or more of good wine is perfect when enjoyed near its inifinity pool.

Club 1911 and more

2008-11-29T14:01:00.005+08:00

Dinner and wine at Club 1911 at Soho, Hong Kong. Quaint, charming and very Chinese/Hong Kong feel.

Shek O Country Club -- beautiful scenery. An exclusive golf club and country club, they serve good food and good wine. (No denim jeans allowed!)

Blue Frog at The Venetian Macao

2008-11-22T01:30:00.004+08:00

On my way to the Macau Hotel Show, I passed by several hip bars inside the Venetian. One particular venue that caught my fancy was Blue Frog. It had a very cozy vibe plus it was near the escalator. Prices are similar to that in Hong Kong (HK150 up) so for people here, it is not bad.

Blue Frog is located on the main casino level of The Venetian, Cotai Strip in Macau. (No, I did not drink. But maybe next time I will. I met my friend, Wayne, and had a cup of coffee there before I got my things to take the ferry to Hong Kong).

Elation

2008-11-15T05:35:00.005+08:00

Elation Buffet's Grand Terrace (Quezon City) event was a rousing success. Okay, so the crowd was a bit young (mostly college kids), the Abesamis Sisters' party had a good turnout, with flowing chocolate fondues and shooters.

The shooters, I did not recognize. Apparently, they are original concoctions. Mostly sweet, with chocote, we sure got sugar high (not that it was a bad thing).

Congratulations and more...buffets!

Cravings and Ramblings

2008-11-14T04:29:00.005+08:00

I have a craving for chocolate and alcohol. Found this Chocolate Shots recipe. (Photo is from that site, too) Looks delish but very difficult to make.

Google. This is the answer to any question. Found several drinks made with chocolate and some liquer like Godiva Chocolate Martini. So is vodka good with chocolate?

I'm gonna try this out.

Lamma Island, Hong Kong

2008-11-03T16:35:00.007+08:00

The pier

Fu Kee Seafood Restaurant (okay, don't laugh)

Our boat...

Last October 31, we sailed to Lamma Island, ate a feast and had a nice time.

Fu Kee has good food, cold beer, nice wine. All you need is company you like and you're set.

Boracay's Hobbit House

2008-10-30T14:13:00.009+08:00

A cold Red Horse beer at Hobbit House quenches the thirst =) At Don Vito Pizzeria Ristorante of Boracay Mandarin Hotel, order Don Vito Sensation, a vodka-based cocktail.
A slice of Black Rainforest is optional specially if you are calorie-counting.

Manila by Night

2008-10-19T16:30:00.007+08:00

I went to Socialista last Thursday/Friday. I'm glad it has a safe crowd, still. Beer is P45 still, too. I liked the Tanduay rum there.

A new bar/resto beside Shrimps Ahoy, Harbour Square

There are new developments in the Manila area that I haven't been to. Check out Harbour Square, beside CCP Theater near Star City. It's like Metrowalk in Ortigas Center. Beer is pretty affordable, too. P180 for a bucket of 6. A Red Horse is P45.

It was my first time to explore Pasay area. It was difficult to find a place where there is karaoke and al fresco (out of the ordinary Music 21). But we did find one. It's a small place across the EDSA International Entertainment Complex and is quite safe and decent in a sense that there are no almost naked girls serving you. Just plain videoke and beer place. It has the authentic Pasay feel to it. Vendors selling peanuts and fish crackers are allowed to sell inside. The way to put it is that, this is the opposite of posh and is one of those places where the masang masa go to. A song costs P5.00 but they have listening songs and songs you can sing along with so do choose your sing-along songs wisely.

Drunken Talks

2008-10-12T22:32:00.003+08:00

As part of a website on design, I will be contributing videos on "Drunken Talks." The concept is just that, talks over a couple of beers. But basically focused on design. It was inspired by this video.

Check out www.drunkondesign.wordpress.com for more.

Macau! Macau!

2008-10-10T05:25:00.014+08:00

It may seem strange but I did enjoy Macau even if I didn't gamble. Walking tours and bar hops. I even bought a liter of Macau beer at a grocery (MOP7) but had to leave it at the airport because it wasn't worth checking it in.

Anyhow. Do check these places when in Macau.

San Lorenzo's

At the Fisherman's Wharf or "Yo Yan Ma Tao" look for San Lorenzo's at the New Orleans block. Beer is MOP30 whereas when you drink at a casino's bar/lounge, cheapest is MOP45. Heineken even comes in a lovely, slender glass (right photo). Seafood pizza (Pizza Frutti Di Mare) MOP98. Pizza and beer it is!

The View

At Sand's (walking distance from the Fisherman's Wharf), check out The View and be fascinated with pole dancers :P San Mig Light (in a clear pilsen bottle) MOP45++. Comes with free munchies (peanuts, chips, and dried meat).

MGM

MGM Lobby. Heineken draft MOP50++ comes with multi-grain munchies and live music. Good company just seals the deal.

Bellini Bar at Venetian

MOP40++ for beers. With house mixes like Bellinitini :)

Dimensione

2008-10-07T22:00:00.006+08:00

Went to Fort Bonifacio High Street with my good friend Anthony and went into two of my favorite places in that area: Fully Booked and Dimensione. I developed an immediate liking to the nice lounge area at the latter. I thought to myself, this was a perfect set-up for enjoying some cocktails with my friends--leather sofas and acrylic tables. If you have a place as hip as this, you can just invite your friends over and mix your own cocktails.

Totally unrelated but very related to drinking!

Beer, Bands and Blogs

2008-09-22T06:44:00.003+08:00

I wanted to see Beauty in Trouble, one of the featured films of the Cinema Europa this year but they ran out of tickets so I ended up going to Trinoma and then CubaoX. I was craving for Sole Fillet Pasta of Mogwai. I knew there was an event there, with colleague Nina Terol as one of the prime movers and so it made sense to actually give in to the craving.

"Youth Vote Philippines (YVote) is an alliance among various youth and reform-minded organizations for 2010 and beyond. The objective of the group is to create offline and online collaboration for voter’s education and increasing voter’s registration. This campaign will be a series of events to be launched nationwide with pilot sites in Cebu, Davao, Baguio and Manila.We envision strategic alliances for 2016 with 2010 as a starting point for collaboration.

Youth Vote Philippines brings together expertise of the various youth organizations in implementing voter’s education. It has integrated the School Caravan programs of YAP and AYLC and information programs of FTV, SCAP, and Akbayan Youth–combined with technology innovation and an information portal from YPS. Not to mention the marketing and program expertise of the WhyNot? Foum and networking with the experts in TAYO, the Reform Coalition, INCITEGov, and the MGG.

We believe that it is in alliances and collaboration that we can move forward towards reform. Let’s all work together for 2010 and beyond!"

Check out R2V's website.

Bistro 110

2008-09-15T03:34:00.004+08:00

Found along Carlos Palanca St., Makati City (near Union Church)
San Mig Light (P80) buy 1, take 1. Sells cocktails by the pitcher! (P550, if I remember it correctly)
With smoking area outside
Near an ATM machine so easy access to cash :P
Right across Gweilo's

Indian Walking Tour

2008-09-08T16:30:00.004+08:00

Little India in Manila

We got to enter a real Hindu temple where they were celebrating the festival of colors. We also went in an Indian Sikh Temple where we got treated to a nice meal of Indian food. On my way home, got to wondering if wine drinking was legal in India.

I was amazed that India produces its own wine. It is also interesting to know that the nearest "Indian" cocktail would be classic gin and tonic, a result of British colonialism in the area. I have tried it with a dash of cayenne powder and it was great. Try it.

Banana Leaf and Oody's

2008-09-02T06:24:00.011+08:00

Singha. aaaahhhh

Last Friday, we met up at Greenbelt and we talked about putting out a webzine or a blog on design. We then went to feasted on Asian food at Banana Leaf. I ordered a Singha beer (Php90, I think). It was good.

Nice shirt, eh? This isn't mine.

We then moved to Oody's and had a round of San Mig.

The next day, I went here (see ticket). It was hair-raising, awesome and terrifying at the same time (Ely Buendia had to be brought to the hospital). Too bad I didn't drag myself to the post concert party which I heard was fun.

Vodka at The Hague

2008-08-27T22:59:00.006+08:00

So I have been having a "The Hague" bug lately. My friend, Dazzle, sent me these videos.

Lekker Tagay

Ariane's Kapiskora

More reasons to go to Holland!

Waterfront Hotel Lahug Lobby

2008-08-17T23:13:00.003+08:00

Cozy interiors. Look up and see (read?) a bit about history.

A bottle of San Mig Light costs P114. something inclusive of tax and service charge.

After watching the presentation at the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC) called Festival of Festivals, we capped the night at the lobby of Waterfront Cebu City. But considering this was a nice hotel, the price is acceptable. I remember, a bottle of water in one of Manila's older hotels costs P100 already.

Sarah's and Kyusinero

2008-08-10T13:18:00.005+08:00

Sarah's is an ice cream shop, supposedly. But it's really more of an institution. You get off at Philcoa, Diliman, Quezon City, and ride a tricycle to Krus na Ligas. Just tell the driver to bring you to Sarah's (near the arch of Krus na Ligas or KNL)

Red Horse Stallion (P28).

Kyusinero is near Eunilaine. Same road as Treehouse. It's open 24 hours.

Jay-j's Inasal

2008-08-02T23:57:00.004+08:00

August 1 -- Gran Matador with Coke Zero. And a shot of tequila. At Jay-j's Timog. SML is at P36, Strong Ice is P55. But what's great about this place is it's open 24 hours. And bibingka is served 12 months of the year.

And today, while trying to figure out how to go about this post, I was surfing for design-related projects but ended up with this really cool idea for serving vodka.

I wonder if in the future, I will get to make my own stuff. Or at least have the time to try to make some

Cognac and Katips

2008-07-28T01:11:00.004+08:00

Hennesy cognac after a nice meal at The Manor, Baguio last July 25. It was nice because it warmed me up. And it was sweet.

When I came back, my friend wanted to meet with me and we ended up at Katips behind the busy Tomas Morato. There is ample parking here and closes quite late.

I think it's on Scout Fernandez.

Bollywood Night

2008-07-23T01:34:00.005+08:00

Before going to dinner with friends at Bollywood, Greenbelt, last Friday night, dropped at Powerbooks and ended up buying a book on cocktails. I can't wait to try the recipes out. (As I have not taken a photo of the cover, I cannot post it here).

Bollywood is a swanky Indian place (you can tell, right?) where food is good, with belly-dancing on flat screens and live Indian music. Find Bollywood Bistro and Bar at the 3/F Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center.

Kuching's Rice Wine

2008-07-16T16:55:00.006+08:00

At the Bidayuh (land dayak) long house, you are greeted with rice wine. Our guide, Cornelia Dien told us that the right (and polite) way of saying you don't or won't drink it is to touch the glass and just say "Thank you."

Went to Kuching, Malaysia for the Sarawak Rainforest World Music Festival. The wet and muddy opening night had people (like moi) stuck in the Tourism Malaysia booth have a sake festival of our own (to keep us warm while we watch from the huge projector screen). The next day we went to the Semenggoh Wildlife Center to see orangutans and then to Annah Rais Bidayuh (Bidayuh is the second largest ethnic group in Sarawak)Longhouse. Rice wine, locally called tuak, greeted us.

Good morning, sake's kin!

Absolut Vodka, absolute cure?

2008-07-05T03:57:00.003+08:00

This bottle of Absolut Vodka Strawberry was a wedding favor. From Joanna and Edwin's lovely wedding last December.

So I have been sick for a few days now. And at this point, I am suffering from nasal congestion. Breathing through the right nostril only. I suggested to my mom that maybe, I should drink gin. She suggested that I should take vodka instead. And so, even if it doesn't have a label that say "break in case of emergency," I'm glad that it contains real vodka.

Yeah. This is one of the coolest wedding favors ever :)

Vodk Tonic vs Gin Tonic

2008-06-30T04:57:00.006+08:00

Sex on the Beach. Found an interesting article on shooters with these "names." Free recipe, too.

Gin Tonic

3 parts gin
5 parts tonic
wedge of lime

For a "part," I would use bottle cap.

Fill glass with enough ice. Put in gin. Rub lime around the rim of the glass (this one I read somewhere) and put in lime into the glass. Top with tonic.

There are people who would squirm at the idea of drinking gin. I like gin. I can finish a bilog on my own. Just water and gin is fine. Gin and pomelo (ginpomelo) was de rigeure when I was in college. Besides, they say it is good antidote for fever.

Vodka on the other hand is something fairly "new" to me.

Molino Grill

2008-06-22T16:29:00.003+08:00

Typhoon Frank has just passed Bicol. I'm at Bean Bag, a coffee shop beside Molino Grill. Both are two of the older hang-out places along Magsaysay Avenue, Naga City.

Had dinner with bestfriend, Lovey (who by the way was the first inspiration behind how this blog was eventually developed) , at Molino Grill last night: Grilled Squid, Sinigang na Ulo ng Lapu-Lapu, 2 cups plain rice, 1 cup garlic rice, lemonade for P305.00 only. Not bad.

Molino Grill serves beer. I remember in December 2004, my high school classmates (and then one), spent a night of good laughs here over a few buckets of beer. And for these memories, it holds a special place in my heart.

Nommu, Morato

2008-06-19T04:49:00.005+08:00

Niel's work of art.

It was practically a Thursday night of drinking that of course, ended at about 2 am of Friday which qualified this post :)

I sort of suggested it to Noreen since majority of them were from Quezon City. Nommu is along Tomas Morato, Quezon City. It is beside Popoy's Grill which is across Kozui Green Tea. Beer is 3 for a 100 and Vodka Cruiser is at P120.

Food is Japanese-inspired. Emz actually had noodle soup before, with and after her beer. She says she's not really encouraged to drink because she has "acid reflux." But she did and she was fine. The noodles may have really helped line her stomach.

Neil, meanwhile, stuck a row of SML labels on the mirrored table. But he wasn't really drunk.

Birthday Dinner and Championship Party

2008-06-09T01:27:00.005+08:00

It was Ced's birthday celebration and victory party (his team won the basketball championship game a few days ago) so last Saturday night we went to their house south of the Metro. That was after a visit at the site of William's project in Alabang. And getting lost. Then looking for Conti's. Then getting lost. Then finding Conti's and buying a cake. Then getting lost. And finally finding the house. And met Dado.

Had beer and wine and beer. This was while we were talking about accounting and opportunities. And while I was silently thinking about Lovey. But I digress. And while at it, we also talked about how William's nose is so beautiful but that of May was perfect.

Everybody can be beautiful. Blessed are those who were given the "features" through genes. Lucky are those who can afford to pay for them.

Rasa Marina

2008-06-01T21:26:00.006+08:00

Rasa Marina is in Sta. Ana, Cagayan North. It has beer in can and really good pultuan. Lobster is still a steal despite the fact that the foreigners have adversely affected the selling price (from P150/kilo to P1000!) It is near the port that takes you to the Crocodile Island where sunrise, they say, is really, really beautiful. Too bad, it was a cloudy day but the discipline to wake up, the soothing sounds of the sea and the early morning breeze made the experience really nice.

Just be sure not to break and leave broken bottles on the island (we found a lot).

Friday Night Blues

2008-05-27T16:35:00.002+08:00

May 23 --- Why?

This probably is the hardest question to answer. Finding a reason is tricky for what can be reasonable for one may be unreasonable for another.

Choosing not to compromise your future shouldn't be something that people should find as unwise. Is it wiser to just jump right in and not think about your future? Of course not.

I need a drink.

Fortant and Tears

2008-05-20T00:03:00.005+08:00

While my friend and business partner was downing Fortant red wine, a glass each time last May 16 (a Friday night spent working), I told her about this article that alcohol is supposed to make traumatic experiences last longer as tested on rats. And she argued that she cannot understand why these scientific studies are done on rats when rats are different from humans. I wanted to answer the question but I figured I would just be dragging the matter.

Splendido Taal's Ladera Golfers Lounge

2008-05-20T00:01:00.007+08:00

(left to right) The bell tower. Sizzling plate.

I know it's a bit late. I was supposed to post this last May 12. But I have been very busy.

Splendido's Ladera Golfers Lounge sells SML for P48 something so it's about P50/bottle. For the change in scenery and the nice weather, it is worth the drive. Or if you're looking for a wedding venue, it's a nice place to check out.

Anyway, it was my first time to have pink wine last May 12. It is light but not too light. It smells nice and has a soft finish.

Jack's Loft

2008-05-10T22:29:00.006+08:00

Last Sunday, I was particularly delighted to have finally made my brother go to Eastwood to watch a movie (oh make that two, Ironman then When Love Begins which by the way was not at all a good decision to see them in that order). In between movies, we went to Jack's Loft.

If you want ambiance and a loungy feel, Jack's Loft is the place. I had the opportunity of talking to one of the owners of this joint a few months back and this, he says, was inspired by his brother-in-law's loft in Canada if I remember it correctly. They used to hang out there a lot when he was still based there. So, yes, it is the perfect place to do just that.

There's a nice space upstairs where a group can sit on floor pillows and chat the night away. It's actually a dessert bar so do try some. The cheesecake is baked and not gelatin-based which is good.

And they serve beer and sosyal pulutan, too.

Xaymaca

2008-05-03T16:15:00.004+08:00

April 25 -- With two girl friends, Twenty and Dawn, we went to Xaymaca in Quezon City. This was after the Earth Day Jam along Tomas Morato where I rekindled a feeling for pinoy bands like Moonstar 88.

You pay P150/head no matter which part of the band's performance is at already. This entitles you to a beer. It can get pretty crowded though so be careful not to bring a huge purse which will be inconvenient while you stand around waiting for a seat to be vacated. Additional bottles are at P40 each, i think.

Xaymaca is located along Timog Ave., Quezon City.

Island of Wet Rice (and beer for RM4)

2008-04-21T02:46:00.005+08:00

In Langkawi, Malaysia last Friday.

I have friends whose idea of a perfect vacation is drinking ice-cold beer on the beach. I miss these guys and they would have made this quick island stop merrier. and noisier

Anyway, while here, I remember how beautiful Bora and Palawan islands are and I felt that the Philippines has much to learn of how Malaysia does its tourism promotion programs. And I made a resolution that if I were ever going to work for the government again, it would have to be with DOT.

Dinner with a Baron

2008-04-21T02:43:00.004+08:00

Last Saturday, had dinner with a Baron and his Filipina wife in a village near the airport. He was 80+ but was still very strong he actually set the table (he did 12 or 20 laps earlier that day).

It was a nice meal and being born to a wine-making family, it was expected that he was a lover of wines. It was amazing though that before we ate dinner, he was having a bottle of San Miguel Pale Pilsen. During the meal, he had two (or three) glasses of red wine. And after, he made coffee for himself and for everyone. His wife served lemoncillo, lemon liquer. It was the first time I had one and my! it was such a strong drink. She said it aids digestion. I thought, the acid might as well do some good.

I found a lemoncillo recipe which seems very doable.

There were three women and two men in this table. Two couples and myself, a single person. I felt weird that I was there. It was a good thing though that I was leaving for a cruise the next day which kept me from thinking about why am I still single.

Mogwai

2008-04-11T01:08:00.009+08:00

Mogwai was it for Friday night last week. Good friend from China came home to do pamamanhikan to his fiancee's parents in the province.

Onigiri

Before going to Cubao Shoe Expo, went to Kozui, a green tea place along Tomas Morato where I collected a pack of shelled pumpkin seeds and cheese hopia from Sonya's Garden. I was made to try Onigiri, a snack made of Japanese rice (yes, I was forced to eat rice with my Roast Green Tea Latte with soya milk) shaped into a triangle. It had bits of tuna and some salty japanese sprinkles and had a nori strip at the bottom. It will be part of the pastry display of the store soon. I imagine this to be effective in lining one's stomach before drinking. It will actually go well with beer, I imagine, because it is rice and fish (which you can conveniently bite into like a piece of bread--not that i eat bread with beer).

(Mogwai images by pro photographer Nicky Sering)

Anyway, Mogwai is a place (restaurant-bar with a theater or screening room on the second floor) owned by Erik Matti and Lyle Sacris. It's a cozy place and we always choose to meet here now that everyone has outgrown (or simply find it not sulit to go to) Sarah's and Molo's. Beer is affordable here. But what I do like are the lava cakes, both dark and white (P90 a piece), the Alamid cofffee, and a plate of spaghetti with fish fillet smothered with achovies.

It was packed that night. While waiting to be seated, I asked my friend what he was going to bring for the parents and if it was lechon? His answer, as usually, was funny that I am actually "all for it" for its novelty. He said he was bringing boxes of Krispy Kreme. Hahaha

Q and 5point4

2008-04-06T18:18:00.004+08:00

Got to try a few sips of the following last Saturday:

Q Vodka with Green Apple (330 ml), a product of Australia, 6% alcohol/volume
- the very artificial green apple taste overpowers everything else. i'd easily choose vodka tonic or vodka sprite. but it's 6% alcohol. just like SML. i'd probably choose this if it's less than 100 calories and i'm trying to be more "lady-like"

Five Point Four (275ml), a blend of rum and tropical and sparking "something", 5%alcohol/volume
- really sweet. even a five-year old girl enjoyed it.

Generally, i hope bottled cocktails have calorie values printed in their labels.

Il Pirata

2008-03-27T11:21:00.004+08:00

It was Easter. And my cousin (who just finished his nursing degree) was in town. So we met up at SM Mega Mall's Toy Kingdom before heading to Eastwood City's Il Pirata.

I first went there last year a few weeks after it first opened. I got to meet the owner's son (i remember Diona and I talked about him a little). What is unique to this place is that it looks like you are inside a pirate ship. Some may not like the novelty of the idea since it serves Italian food (but who says there can't be any Italian pirate ships ;P) But I like the food.

While there, we saw Paolo Contis, Isabel Oli and Keempee De Leon in another table.

Anyway, my cousin who is a professional dubber, has added script writing/editing (he translates and edits scripts of television series) as part of his bread and butter. He was convincing me to edit scripts. But when I found out how much they get paid vs the time they spend to edit, I was appalled! I'd rather stick to print, thank you. We joked about the writers' strike in the states, that we should probably also do the same here. But then, we are not as organized here.

Oh. A bucket with pizza at Il Pirata is P270 (from what I can remember).

House Cocktails

2008-03-16T21:13:00.003+08:00

I didn't go out this weekend except that I went to a friend's birthday last Friday and had a bottle of beer. Yes, I just had a bottle. I didn't even finish it.

Anyway, cleaned my bag and found this strip of paper (it's actually part of an envelope) that had the mixes of Hey Jude's house cocktails.

Pearl Harbor - vodka, melon liqueur and pineapple juice

Cape Cod - vodka and cranberry juice

Bay Breeze - vodka, pineapple juice and cranberry juice

Melon Ball - vodka, melon liquer, orange juice

Hey Jude

2008-03-13T01:46:00.008+08:00

I saw this HUGE can of San Miguel Pale Pilsen beer at Plato Platina, Saturday Night. Here is a shot I took for scale. Beer is P350 for a bucket and they will be coming out with a 6+1 promo once the clock strikes 1 AM soon.

Probably the bar with the primest location on the white beach (D'Mall area) of Boracay. Cocktails and beer here are discounted during Happy Hour (3:30 pm to 7:30) so these glorious drinks (Cape Cod, pinkish glass and Pearl Harbor, greenish drink) are P90 less 50% each. So for the price of 2 cocktails, I got to try 4 drinks.

Anyway, I was sharing I have seen this guy from Benchwarmers. walking. Jon Heder. And it turns out, it was him!

It's the first time I noticed Kasbah (near Discovery Shores). Beer is P40 during happy hour and is best enjoyed with the sunset (although I didn't get to try. I just imagine it would be really great!)

Blue Butterfly & The Grill

2008-03-05T01:35:00.004+08:00

DOMINIQUE GRILL is beside Blue Butterfly (SML P21). It's the first time I saw it so it must be fairly new because last December, I was just at Blue Butterfly with my gay and gay-friendly friends. I'd say the crowd here is like Popoy's Grill which is also nearby (along Tomas Morato). But I didn't get to go inside since I was with mostly gay friends who are really at home and "familiar" with Butterfly.

BLUE BUTTERFLY
28 Scout Tobias St., cor Timog Ave., QC; Tel no.(02) 416-1784 "Small cozy bar and art gallery; Accessible by cab and plenty of parking along side street and Timog Ave.; Crowd: straight-looking/acting gays" -- found this description in another website

SML (P150/5 bottles) as of last Friday/Saturday morning. This establishment has two floors. On the first, is a small space for dancing. The second floor can be rented with videoke. The waiters and bartenders here have been around since it opened.

Had a coke light. I arrived at around 30 past 11. I really didn't want to drink but then I eventually gave in to a glass of rhum coke light followed by coke light and a separate shot of rhum. I got to mix my drink :)

It was the first time I met Joey who was a magna cum laude Math major, gay and happy :)

He's doing his PhD now...anyway, I remembered he was telling us about a program with a set of indicators that he developed which measured an "employee's happiness." Apparently, using happiness instead of satisfaction is also an indicator that he's gay hahaha so cute.

Playa Calatagan

2008-02-25T13:06:00.005+08:00

Last Saturday, I went to Bluewave Commercial Center ang got to watch two bands perform: Ministick and First Five and Half, I think. The latter's vocals are two bald guys who were kind of funny because they were straight (at least that was how they appear to be) yet were really game. Plus their repertoire included lots of 80s music. Ministick also was good.

So anyway, I went to Playa Calatagan, Batangas the next day. And as you can guess, I slept the entire trip. We had lunch at the Beach Club, the area that would be made exclusive for its homeowners. They serve beer here, P70 + 10% service charge and was playing chillout, beach music. For now, people can drive here and rent water cabanas (P300 small, P500 medium, P700 large) and just enjoy the facilities while the public facility which is called Beach Resort is under development. There are garden cabanas, too. Rates start at P500, i think. The rates are good for a half-day which means either opening to 1 pm or 1pm to 6pm (closing). Great for family outings because the water is really shallow so parents don't have to worry much. If you don't want to use the pool and/or would like to bring your own food and beverage, beer included, you can still access the beach at an area called The Picnic Area where there are several benches and tables. It's still free as of now. But of course, there will come a time when Landco will have to charge entrance.

El Capitan, Club Noah Isabelle

2008-02-17T14:11:00.013+08:00

Found on Apulit Island, Palawan, Club Noah Isabelle is the only resort being served by a small airport. Seair is the only plane you can ride to get here. From the airport, you ride a chartered jeepney and then ride a small boat that brings you to a bigger boat that takes you to the island (this takes about 40 minutes). But if you didn't get any sleep, this is the perfect time to catch some Zzzs. If you don't need the power nap, stay on top of the boat and enjoy the cruise (but be prepared to get wet when the sea gets rough).

Left is a day shot of El Capitan at daybreak which I took before we left the island. At night, it looks like what you see on the right.

Beer is $1.50 which is not bad considering it is an island resort. Must-try is Club Noah Special (rhum-based with four seasons) $5 because it's only here one finds it (I guess you can always mix your own but unless you drink it here, it's not qualified as "Club Noah Special"). The margarita, I think costs $4.50.

At El Kapitan, there is a pool table, a dart board and a nearby tabletennis table. You can also jam with an acoustic and tambol duo whose songs are mostly classics.

Kafebaresto

2008-02-10T06:03:00.000+08:00

Found along Kamuning. From EDSA, it's on your right. Wouldn't have had the chance to learn about this place had it not been for my cousin who also introduced the place to my brother. We went here early AM of Saturday. P30 SML.

Photographs on the wall. Digital art/short films are shown regularly as indicated on the schedules posted on the wall. Cozy place. Owned by celebrities Romnick Sarmenta and Harlene Baustista.

Socialista

2008-02-05T16:53:00.000+08:00

Was invited to look at this bar by Ray See, an architect last Saturday, February 2. Beer is at P45. House music. With good DJs. Nice interiors. Posh. Chic. Comfortable. It's formally opening on February 7. Owner says they will also serve lunch and dinner.

536 Remedios St., Malate, Manila. For reservations, call (+63)(2)4009980.

Conways

2008-02-02T14:04:00.000+08:00

Last Saturday, went to Conways at the Second Level of Shangri-La Makati City. A band called Replay played. Older crowd. There were families who were hanging out (from teenagers to their grandparents, I suppose). A bit pricey, P180, per bottle of San Mig Light. But I guess it's one of those bars where you can bring the entire family and have a great time dancing to music that cuts across generations (read: social dance music).

It would be best though to bring a guy who knows how to "lead."

Days before, helped developed a new drink. Called it Vino Verde: cucumber, ripe mango, rhum and menthol liqueur. Try it!

Lecka Lecka Bar and Restaurant

2008-01-21T01:43:00.000+08:00

In my commitment to discover new places, even while in KL, Malaysia, I took time to take some notes on where to drink. Across Pavilion, is Lecka Lecka, beside the Starhill Gallery signage. Stella Armois is atRM24 Heineken RM21. And the music and the ambiance is great for chilling (as long as it doesn't rain). The pizzas are great, too. Thin crust and lovely cheese. Try the Local Pizza (i think that was the name) at RM35 (or was it RM45) which is served with pickled green chilis, chili sauce and something else (which I had no interest in).

The night before, went to Retro Club along Jalan Pinang where there are other clubs/bars like Rum Jungle Bar (saw an outlet in Ipoh, Perak but didnt drink there). Stella Armois is just RM18. Hawkers sell 600ml Tiger Beers at RM14. Which is like equivalent to 2 bottles of the prices above.

When asked where we went to drink last Friday night and I said "Lecka Lecka," Ong said it sold ice cream. So it's not only Sarah's Ice Cream Shop near UP campus that sells beer then. Amusing.

Penguin

2008-01-16T04:51:00.001+08:00

Found myself here at around 2 AM of Saturday (I'm just guessing but it was definitely after 1 AM). Penguin is along Remedios, Malate, Manila City. I just had a glass of water here (had rhum and diet coke at a housewarming party in Katipunan already). But I think a bottle of SML is at P50.

There are bands who play here. Reminds me of Makati's Saguijo.

Plato Platina

2008-01-09T23:55:00.000+08:00

Check Out: Plato Platina
Location: Blue Wave, along Macapagal Ave., Pasay City
How to get there: Car/cab but if you're saving your cash for the good food and wine, take MRT, get off at Taft Ave. Station. Go down the stairs. Ride a jeepney to MOA and get off Petron Station. When I do ride a jeep, I sit infront (where I feel safer) so I can tell the driver to stop at Petron. You can also amuse yourself when he barks "MUWAH! MUWAH! MUWAH! to throngs of people coming down or from the mall. From Petron, you can walk to Plato Platina which is already visible from here.

If you love paella and would want something different, order the Paella Nero. Really tasty sticky rice with black squid ink and hefty chunks of meats, vegetables and seafood. If you're on a diet (trying to cut calories from food to make way for the wine), order the Three Season Salad or the PESCE DI ZAFFERANO IN PATATA CON PESTO or just ask for the "grilled fish with vegetables and white wine sauce" or simply "grilled fish." The pizzas are GREAT (really thin, crispy crust)!

This is also one place to have a lava cake which is baked upon order and served with Fiorgelato (yes, lovely ice cream).

I suggest you get wine to go with the nice meal. With an extensive wine list (I think all the decent wine producing countries are represented here), you might get intimidated with the wine/bar list. But don't be. All of them were personally picked by one of the owners who is a self-confessed wine fan. If you're not sure what to get, just ask the waiter to recommend. The bottle in the photo is good.

SML (P60++) is available should you want beer with pizza.

So since this is not a "new place" for me, I am writing about this book that I had a chance to read the first few pages of (inside the mood lighted Plato) while waiting for the owner of the book to finish her meeting. It's called "Thick Face, Black Heart" by Ching-Ning Chu. Very interesting non-fiction. It describes "Thick Face" as the shield that protects one's self-esteem from bad opinions of others while the "Black Heart" repsents ruthlessness which it is not necessarily evil (the author went on to illustrate the latter point with examples that made me agree that being ruthless is not necessarily bad). But I should really read first AS Byatt's "The Virgin in the Garden." Anybody got a copy?