Zao Vietnamese Bistro in Eastwood City, Libis

Last Sunday, our family ate out with a couple of our closest friends at Zao in Eastwood City, Libis to celebrate my mom’s birthday. Our first choice was actually Cyma, but we were greatly disappointed with them as they told us over the phone that no reservations were being accepted during weekends, but to our surprise, they couldn’t fit us in because some of the tables were already reserved. That was more than enough reason for to go with our second choice which was Zao.

Anyway, back to Zao. Their Eastwood branch is actually quite a small place as our party of 18 almost filled up their entire indoor dining space, but believe me, the food is good enough a reason to try out your luck and find a table here at Zao on a busy, jam-packed weekend night at Eastwood City.

Red Kimono: P535 All-You-Can-Eat

Having eaten in the likes of Teriyaki Boy, Saisaki, Fuji, Sumo Sam, Paseo Uno (Mandarin Hotel), Spiral (Sofitel) and Hama in Boracay, I would consider Red Kimono to be average. It’s not a stand out in terms of flavor, plating or creativity, but it’s good enough for its price.

However, they do have an on-going P535 All-You-Can-Eat promo which the others don’t currently offer that might interest Japanese foodies out there.

Heaven ‘n Eggs: All-Day Breakfast

If you’re like me who doesn’t mind eating breakfast anytime of the day, then Heaven ‘n Eggs is just the place for you. They have an assortment of breakfast items to choose from ranging from the very American pancakes to the very Filipino tapsilog (with a twist, of course). It’s been a while since we last ate at Heaven ‘n Eggs with the last one dating back to the year it first opened in the Philippines, and it has improved in terms of service, and food quality as well.

 

Hama Japanese Cuisine: Sushi Heaven

Out of the various cuisines available in Boracay, nothing beats eating seafood. Of course, being an island paradise, you’re almost guaranteed that everything’s fresh from the sea; and while many other establishments offer grilled seafood, we decided to stick to the basics and go fresh all the way, Japanese style.

 

Cafe del Sol: Bora’s Modern Cafe

Despite being a very commercial tourist destination, I have yet to find a Starbucks or Seatle’s Best Cafe open up on the island, but with such an established place like Cafe del Sol already having a bit of a following in Boracay, I don’t mind at all. Cafe del Sol is probably the closest thing you can get to a Starbucks-like environment on the island.

Aria: A Taste of Italy in Boracay

Aria is almost a landmark in Boracay. It’s situated along the row of beach front establishments and is at the forefront of the D’Mall compound. It’s got modern interiors which make it stand out from the rest, yet it seems to blend well with the Boracay beach scene with its earth-tone colors. It looks a bit high-end and intimidating, especially if you’re on a strict budget; but while the prices are a bit above the average, it is well prepared, tasty and more importantly, fulfilling.

Boracay Food Trip

Going to Boracay usually means enjoying the sun, sand and sea; but certain conditions such as bad weather can ultimately spoil your trip. It’s a good thing though that the food on this famed beach location in the Philippines is as good as the scenery and the quality is unaffected by the changes in the climate.