Subspace Encountered

I've been holding on to this blog post for a time already because I sO wanted to combine this with a related feature of a store I've been dying to visit. And so I did... all because good things are worth waiting for. Agree? 

Very well, while I try to justify my laziness *haha* feast your eyes with these creatively peculiar work of art and uniquely crafted furnitures found inside a one-of-a-kind coffee shop in a small corner in Ortigas - Subspace.

If this is not the first time you've heard about Subspace, good for you, because Subspace is truly a must-visit, must-try, coffee experience.

I've been reading a lot about Subspace coffee before from other blogs and so I've been planning and wanting to visit this place but never got the chance. Then, on one sunny afternoon, while I'm out and about in Ortigas trying to find a place where I will be meeting with a potential client, guess what I stumbled upon - Alleluia - it's Subspace! Like, God was really pointing me to the right direction because he knew I needed a boost of caffeine in my body *lol* (just exaggerating). 

The place was smaller than I expected it to be but the artistry of it and its coffee did not disappoint.

I'm a self-confessed coffee addict, like running without caffeine in my blood for a day is like not drinking water for a week. (okay, exaggerating again but I'm just really that mad about coffee) I was pretty amazed and confused, both at the same time, when I looked at their menu. Amazed because their coffee offerings are not the usual. Confused because I'm a creature of habit and so I didn't know what to order. After about 10 minutes starring at their menu in utter confusion, I went for their best recommendation - Hot Purple Potato Latte - just to try something new since I'm in a new place. 

I didn't know what to expect exactly, and then this cute little cat surprised me *meow* courtesy of Subspace coffee artist.

I didn't want to kill the art but I had to drink my coffee, my body was just begging for it... So, I swirled the cutesy cat away then this creamy froth just excited me even more. Since I had no idea how the Hot Purple Potato Latte will taste, I had to take few breaths before taking a sip. (Isn't it obvious that I'm some kind of a control freak too? - Again, creature of habit) *haha* 

Verdict? Yummy. And I bet this tastes good over ice too... I'll try that next time after trying their Peanut Butter Latte, Dark Choco Mint Latte...(and the list goes on) Oh, and they have awesome milk tea creations too! Gotta try that also.  

As mentioned, my "space" adventure did not end there because I also made it a point to visit Subspace's brother, Space Encounters - a custom-made furniture shop for out-of-the-box accent pieces that can turn every empty space an artsy livable one.   

Space Encounters is just a few steps away from the coffee shop so if you're already in the area, do check it out. It's just unfortunate that the place was undergoing renovation so I didn't see much of their usual displays but what they had in store was enough to take my breath away. 

Come to think of it, if I were to do a line up of careers I would have considered before given the exposure that I have now, if only I can go back to college? Interior Design would definitely be in my consideration. If only I heard the cry of "ART" calling me when I was dead set wanting to become a lawyer (surprising huh?) *sigh* 

Oh well, there's a reason for everything and I am just glad that the turn of events led me back to my true passion - Art, Design, Fashion, Events, Travel, and believe it or not Marketing. As my FB status said a few weeks ago, if I can have the best of all worlds, why not?

The Furniture Menu

Subspace Coffee House

GF Grand Emerald Tower, F. Ortigas Jr. Road

Ortigas Center, Pasig City

Space Encounters

Unit B Mezzanine, Padilla Building

F. Ortigas Jr. Road

Ortigas Center, Pasig City

E: info@spaceencounters.net

xoxo

The Clueless Mrs.

My Favorite Week

If you ask me what my favorite week of the year is... I'd say, it's not the long holiday during Christmas season nor it is Holy week. Any guesses? Well, I think the photos below gives it away. My favorite week of the year is actually 7 days from February 28 to March 7 (8 days if it's a leap year) simply because it is the week when my husband and I celebrate both our birthdays, exactly one week apart. Our celebration usually starts a day before his birthday because my husband shares his birthdate with his dad. We have this so-called "pre-birthday" dinner with just the two of us, then celebrate his real birthday with the family the next day. 

So, how did we spend our birthdays this year, you ask? Another giveaway... we binged on sweets! A whole loooot of sweets.

Have you tried Tous Les Jous? MUST TRY! Specially to those cake lovers who aren't necessarily ultra sweet lovers like me coz some cakes are really really sweet to the point that your tooth will hate you. But Tous Les Jous? Oh TLJ... Sweet perfection to my palette. This is aside from the fact that they design the cutest cakes and the price is just right. 

Classic Chocolate Cake @ P398

For the hubby's pre-birthday dinner, I surprised him by bringing him to this new French resto in Molito, Alabang I've been dying to try- Le Petit Cheri. The place was very charming with touches of Paris here and there that's just so cute. They also have this nice area on the second floor, perfect for small events like bridal showers (the tamed version), baby showers or for any simple affair. 

The Clueless Mister surprised by my gift - a hard to find, already faced out, Ipod Nano (watch) for his once in a blue moon jogging sessions.

Surprise! Surprise! 

The food was good, although the meat served was not perfectly cooked and the potato salad needed a dash of salt and probably would have tasted better if it was cooked a lil longer. What's winner for me is really the ambiance coz everything's so pink! *haha* How girly of me to critic that. I guess I'm just not really that kind of a foodie. I just love to eat. The price range is P250 to P400, decent for special occasions.

Quick Verdict: Overall experience? Good. Will I come back? High Probability.

Now enough of the husband, it's my turn. For my pre-birthday dinner, it was my choosing to dine at a shabby Korean joint in BF Homes called "Masarap" (Delicious) *lol* No kiddin! When my friend invited me "Kain tayo sa Masarap" (Let's eat somewhere delicious) I thought she's generally saying to eat anywhere that's good. Little did I know that that's the actual name of the place. Don't judge the place by it's exteriors nor interiors though coz the food is actually really masarap, comparable to other pricey Korean restos in the village, but at a much cheaper price. And to have a sweet ending, we bought few cupcakes from Larcy's.

Larcy's Cupcakes

Larcy's created buzz in BF Homes when it first opened in December because of its  pink *again with the pink* and adorable architecture. I actually thought of celebrating my birthday there for a cupcake party but it failed my expectations when we first visited the place. Because giving up on a person nor place is not in my nature, I gave it one more try but sadly it failed me again. I don't hate it but I also don't love it. My pet peeve about the place really is that servers don't use gloves when they pick up your cupcakes and place it in the box and don't hate me but too much food coloring in their best-selling Red Velvet Cheesecake stained my teeth. I really hope their cupcakes and the smell of the place improves because the place does have potential. *Note to owners: I'd love to help*

To be honest, I was somehow sad when I celebrated my birthday this year because I usually plan my birthdays months before because I always want to make it special even how simple it may be. But this year? I really just had no energy although I tried planning a quickie hipster party but then I decided not to push through with it. 

Anyway... excuse the drama, it's the thyroid talking. So, I decided to turn the day around by having a simple dinner with the family at Papa John's, by special request of my dad. To my glee, the night turned out fun and nothing really beats spending your special day with the closest people in your life.

Sweet flowers fresh from Tagaytay from my Hubby

I don't know the relevance of siopao. I know, it does not complement Italian food but my mom got crazy buying a monster siopao for my birthday and served it on the table just for the funny sight of it. It remained untouched until the end of the evening.

Making a Wish

Can't get enough of Tous Le Jous, I just had to have one too. Special thanks to my sister.

For the sweetest finale, my sis-in-law also gave my cupcakes, this time from Sophie's mom. And between Larcy's and this, Sophies' Mom Cupcakes is the absolute winner. 

Sophie's Mom cupcakes

Sorry again for the late post. Just wanted to share...

xoxo

The Clueless Mrs.

A Slice of Heaven

It usually takes me to be in a relaxing cafe ambiance and a grande cup of coffee to inspire me to write. Well, no wonder I've been gaining weight with all the sugar bombs I have consumed when the craving for frappes hit me. But for this blog post, I don't need any coz the look and taste of these pastries can already satisfy every bit of craving in my body for a sumptuous snack. 

Because I'm a proud carbs-lover, there's no shame in drooling over this dense and moist Raisin Bread with chockfull of raisins and a hint of cinnamon that hits the sweet spot for an ultimate foodgasm. Spank it with butter and I promise, you'll want more. *lol* (my own words just made me laugh)

The Banana Bread, on the other hand, is filled with the sweet goodness of ripe fruit,  both perfect partners for breakfast, midday snacks, and steaming cups of freshly brewed coffee or tea. *hmmmm*

You might be wondering where I got these baked goodies I've been munching over the past few days because they're so big that can't simply be devoured at one sitting. Well, those familiar need not plan a whole trip to Baguio city because Baguio Country Club, famous for their trademark treats like these two pastry delights, has finally brought their goodies here in Manila and are now made available at Heaven & Eggs, Glorietta 4. Baked fresh daily at 2am, these are rushed down right away via the new highways from the city of pines to arrive in Makati every morning at 6am, allowing breakfast, dessert, and snack aficionados to have their fill of these pastries before they go about their day. Supplies run out fast and get sold out by lunchtime, but Heaven & Eggs has bread lovers covered as a second shipment sometimes arrives in the shop in the afternoon.

Raisin Bread fanatic and loyal Baguio Country Club Raymond Ilusorio Yap shares, "The Raisin Bread is very special and can only be made in Baguio. The secret is Baguio's atmosphere that gives it just the right amount of fresh air and humidity. It's just not possible to bake it moist the same somewhere else. So I found a way to share my favorite breakfast everyday in Manila. Credit is due to new and fast vehicle engines that can make the 250km trip daily."

Infectious huh?!? Have a taste of Baguio's best from the city below heaven and above the clouds, visit Heaven & Eggs, located at the ground floor of Glorietta 4, Ayala Center, Makati for a slice of heaven you'll definitely come back for again and again. 

xoxo,

The Clueless Mrs.

*this is a sponsored post*

Pray + Eat + Love

Missed me much? Well, I terribly did miss quietly seating in a cafe with no other agenda but to write and share my day with y'all. And I know it's way too late to excite you about this post but I have no more excuses left but to romance you with another sincere apology. So, a heartfelt sorry guys. 

Anyway, to take up where I left off, here's the finale about my sweet escape to Tagaytay last cold January for the celebration of our first year wedding anniversary where we ended the occasion in prayer, eating (a lot), and celebrating love the best way we know how... before your imagination gets playful, I meant spending quality time together. *cheese balls!* (A new expression I picked up from the movie Warm Bodies- MUST WATCH!) 

We were originally planning to hear mass at the Shrine of St. Therese of the Child Jesus, where we exchanged our I DOs a year ago, but since we decided to celebrate in Tagaytay, we made it a point to visit the Pink Sisters Cathedral instead to PRAY. It was my very first time to visit the church actually and I was pleasantly amazed with what I saw. I literally felt close to Heaven, with no 50/50 life and death state required. Misty clouds hover the spacious grounds while lots and lots of pine trees and other sorts hide the humble chapel where the Pink Sisters kneel in prayer.  

I had no idea why the church was called "Pink Sisters" until I saw them. And Pink Sisters they really were. Taking pictures inside the church was prohibited, so just imagine women of different ages who have devoted their lives to God, enrobed in bright pink tunic, heads covered with starched white colf, all lined up while they all sing in chorus with voice like angels. I really have no other words but "heavenly."

A lot of advocates visit the church because you can actually write letters with your intentions in a piece of paper then the sisters will pray for you. Now, don't stop kneeling in prayer since the sisters are already doing their jobs, it doesn't work that way. *lol* 

This visit was very timely because both JM and I were at a crossroad in our lives in terms of career, family/ life planning and hopes of achieving both our dreams and ambitions so this visit really helped us connect with God spiritually. I'm also thankful that JM is very faithful and God-fearing because he makes me want to become a better Christian. The fact is, he prays more and loooooonger than I do, which amazes me every time. Although he sometimes fall asleep in the middle of prayer because he talks to God way too long sometimes. *lol*

Here's the facade of the chapel. The exterior may seem structurally traditional with stone-colored walls but the interiors tell a different story. Polished light gray walls with darker gray trimmings and pale pink accents, and low hanging vintage chandeliers. Every corner of room was very pleasing to the eyes and simply breathtaking. I'm thinking, the place would be great for weddings although I'm not sure if they move the railings that encloses the area where the sisters usually seats at mass to cater to such.

As if the universe already heard me, a lucky penny crossed my path- a 1979 20 centavo Hong Kong Dollar. I have no idea why "this old" coin was doing there nor do I understand what it means. Maybe a Hong Kong trip is on the horizon? Hopefully?! I dunno... but it must mean something good. 

Here's me enjoying the cold and foggy weather early Monday morning after sending the Pink Sisters our long letters of personal intentions.

Pink Sisters(map)

After praying, WE EAT. We actually thought long and hard where to continue celebrating our special day. We were back and forth considering somewhere we haven't tried before and somewhere easier on the pocket since we already spent much of our humble budget on overnight accommodations. So, for the purpose of "memories of young love" we went back where year one started. Exactly where we celebrated our first year BF-GF Anniversary- Sonya's Garden.

The place was a lot different from what I remember. Definitely bigger and there were a lot of diners considering it was a Monday. There was even a wedding happening at the other hall. 

But the food? hmmmmmmm.... Still as GOOD as I tasted before or even better, actually. For only P610 per person, you can have unlimited serving of refreshing Dalandan Juice, Salad, Bread, and Pasta. 

Salad- fresh from the garden garnished with fruits, nuts, cucumber, and egg.

Soft, warm bread served with a variety of dips.

Sonya's spot for book signing

Pasta Arrabbiata w/ Blue Marlin bites, Eggplant ratatouille, shitake mushrooms, and capers.  

For Dessert - Turon, Dark Cocoa Chiffon Cake, and real-leaf Tarragon Tea.

The whole dining experience was both nostalgic and refreshing. I cannot wait to plan my next dining visit when the salad craving comes. Oh yeah, I'm a salad lover just in case you don't know. Must be because my mom munches on lettuce day and night when she was pregnant with me. 

Before we left the Sunflower dining hall, here's something that caught my eye. Sonya's Coffee Table Book that Clueless Mrs. like me would LOVE. Story of Sonya, tips on gardening, salad recipes *yum*, even tricks on removing stains! I think Sonya is the humble Martha Stewart of the Philippines. A-mazing. Well, my wallet was a bit tight at that time so I wasn't able to get myself a copy although my palms were itching until we got home because I really wanted one. The book retails at P1,850 and I think it's also available in bookstores in the Metro. If I get to buy one though, I'll get it at Sonya's Garden so I can have it signed by Sonya herself.  

Lastly, LOVE. One year has passed but it still feels like we just exchanged I DOs yesterday. JM - you're my best friend, my hero, my soul mate. I love you. *major cheese balls!* *lol*

Sonya's Garden

Barangay Buck Estate, Alfonso, Cavite, Philippines

(within the vicinity of Tagaytay City)

For Reservations: +63917 5329097 or +63917 5335140

info@sonyasgarden.com 

xoxo,

The Clueless Mrs.

The couple who eats together, gets fat together.

Caution: Hectic Week Ahead

As I say a momentary goodbye to the corporate world again for some health rest, I am greeted with a surge of... *drum roll please* blooooooooog backlogs! *woohoo* I have a whole lot to share with you, from my first holiday with the Mister, trips, food, probably a [v]log or two, few looks and whatnots over the holidays and beyond. I am ecstatic to write all about 'em so, sit tight *doing some fingers and wrist stretching now* coz it's gonna be a hectic blogging week ahead of me. And, I am not just talking about this week... 

Wanna connect with me? 

Follow @AizaSoller on Twitter or on Instagram.

xoxo,

The Clueless Mrs.

KO Knuckle Sandwich

An important part of marriage is compromise, even in food.  That's why even though I personally prefer relaxing fancy dates, I don't really mind getting my hands greasy once in a while to feed my husband's craving for junk food. So for one of our weekly Fri-Dates, I brought my man to a "manly" date  and try out one of the newest burger joints in the South - The Knuckle Sandwich - and have a belly buster half pound burgers for dinner. And boy, was I knocked out.

The Knuckle Sandwich is really a place you can call "for the boys" because, I swear, you can already feel the testosterone five meters away from the place. Minimalist interiors, brick walls, basic tables and stools, Pacquiao and Muhammad Ali posters and even a striking bag matched with pound for pound burgers and sandwiches... Need I say more? 

The price range is quite hefty for a normal day, with an average price of P185 for burgers, P40 for sodas and P130 for desserts, but since it was Fri-Date, we didn't mind spending a lil for some heavy-weight dinner. 

Philly Cheese Burger (P185)
175gram well seasoned beef patty with caramelized onion 
and melted cheese whiz served in a burger bun with oats.

Oh, that juicy goodness.

The Philly Cheese Burger was HUGE and *burp* GOOD, though (in my opinion) it would have probably tasted better if the "caramelized onions" were more than just one peel of an onion and with more melted cheese plus, additional serving of chips won't hurt for the price that we paid (don't sue me, this is constructive criticism *smile*). But the beef patty?!? Ooooh... pure juicy goodness until the very last bite. 

Overall experience? Ok. Would I come back? High Probability.

The Knuckle Sandwich Station

308 Aguirre Street BF Homes, 1718 Paranaque

T: (+632) 425 2007

LIKE The Knuckle Sandwich Station on Facebook

xoxo,

The Clueless Mrs.

The New IT Girl

Okay, my blog backlog is seriously piling up (again) and here I am, sitting in a corner of my fave cafe, almost clueless on how and where to start (again). Annyyywaayyy.... While my blog is still relatively new, I've been so lucky and privileged to be invited to some of the most exciting events and launches happening around the metro. 

One of which is actually the grand launch of Kristn.com - your new digital go-to-girl! Oh, how I wish you can hear me saying this in my most kikay voice. *haha*

Last November 28, 2012, thanks to my dear friends from TV5, I was one of the lucky few who got to witness the official unveiling of TV5's new lifestyle portal, Kristn.com. The event, held at the NBC tent, was a star-studded affair, jam-packed with surprises, PRIZES (Sorry, I just had to highlight *hihi*), and pure awesomeness.   

In normal situations, I wouldn't really have a care in the world which and what new websites are up and new, but this is different. We are talking about digital evolution, people! A new age lifestyle portal that will change the way we live and do things using digital platforms that makes our lives amazingly easier that even our kids will possibly get to experience (until the new wave of digital evolution comes to age, anyway). So, while I was people watching, star sighting, and food hoarding, while my feet were aching, I made sure to keep my eyes and ears open on what the people behind kristn.com have to say. 

Disclaimer: I was standing too far from the stage when all of these were happening, so I had to grab photos from Kristn.com instead. [Photo source]

From Top to Bottom: (1) Team Kristn and Celebrity Contributors
(2) Victor Basa arrives at the event using BCode to Register
(3) Event Hosts, Divine Lee and Derek Ramsey
(4) Kristn.com Editor-in-Chief, Trixie Reyna
(5) DJ Callum David

Oh, Callum David is such a cutie... Back to Kristn though, what I love about Kristn.com is that she's very user-friendly. She's a one-stop-shop of all the things you love and enjoy, may it be movies, fashion, food, travel, music, gadgets, and more. She has also combined our favorite features from Pinterest, FourSquare, MunchPunch, TripAdvisor, etc.,  all rolled up in multi-platforms you can easily access via laptops, tablets, mobile phones and even Smart TVs, which made Kristn.com a certified IT Girl because she just literally has everything! 

On top of these, Kristn boasts celebrity friends who contributes to her wide array of digital content namely, Marvin Agustin, Heidi Ng, and Stephanie Zubiri for Food & Dining; Divine Lee, Bianca Valerio, Ana Kalaw, Kat Dy, Nicole Romero, and Zo Aguila for Fashion & Beauty; Zig Marasigan for Movies; Rica Paralejo, Divine Lee, and Victor Basa for Travel; Abe Olandres and Calvin Lo for Tech & Gaming; Victor Basa and Kevin Yapjoco for Men's Grooming; and Derek Ramsey, James and Phil Younghusband for Sports & Fitness. With all these? Kristn.com will definitely go on top of my bookmarks. 

This is one of the events I've truly enjoyed so far, not only because TV5's young babes and hotties who were all dolled-up wearing the newest trends from SM Ladies' and Men's Fashion, strutted the mile-long runway in the music of OPM rock legend, Razorback, or because of DJ Callum *hihi*, but because it was an evening shared and enjoyed with some of my coolest friends. *awww...*

And, the highlight of my night? Prizes and Freebies! *woohoo* 

I won! I won!

Kristn's Loot Bag!!!

The launch of Kristn.com was co-presented by PLDT. Major sponsors were Sun Cellular, Smart Communications, SM Ladies' Fashion, SM Men's Fashion, and Manny O Wines. Special partners were Benefit Cosmetics, Etude House, the Body Shop, Max Factor, and Cover Girl. With the participation of: The Bar Vodka, Selecta Ice Cream, Zalora, ASUS, Starmobile, URC and Jack N' Jill, Jing Monis Salon, Lenovo Mobile, Garnier, Axe, Tresemme, InFlight, Nivea, Soak Swimwear, Camayan Coast, Azalea Residences Baguio, Dusit Thani, and Belle De Jour Planners. 

Want to get to know Kristn? click here.

xoxo,

The Clueless Mrs.