Soon to Open in Iligan: Ichang Japanese Restaurant

Here in Iligan, there’s always something to look forward to. Cafes and restaurants have been popping up lately and one of them is Ichang.

image

Found at a prime location in Iligan where a sea of restaurants are located, Ichang stands out with its distinctive Japanese aesthetic and colorful noren hanging right in front of their doors.

Ichang is named after the owner, Ichang Hayakawa, a Japanese national hailing from Shizuoka prefecture. He runs this restaurant together with his Filipina wife, Cherryl who happens to be one of the chefs manning the kitchen. 

image
image

Already on its dry run, Ichang is set to launch on the 8th of September this year. 

image

Thanks to Dan, a common friend I share with the owners of this restaurant, I received an invitation to sample some of their dishes (my boyfriend tagged along hehe).    

image

Kani Salad
Served on a cold plate, this light salad composed of imitation crab meat, ripe mangoes, cucumber, lettuce served with a creamy roasted sesame dressing. A favorite!

image

Yaki Udon
Thick Japanese noodles stir-fried with veggies and meat. Bound to please the Filipino palate. 

image

Futo Maki
Literally meaning “fat rolled sushi”, this sweet hand-rolled Japanese sushi is filled with tamagoyaki, oboro, sliced cucumber and shrimp. Another favorite!

image

Tonkotsu Ramen
Made with a rich pork broth, this delicious noodle soup dish is topped with tender pork slices, boiled eggs, naruto and a handful of thinly sliced green onions. A must try for ramen lovers! Yes, yet again, another favorite! 

i don’t know if you can tell but so far I’m absolutely loving their dishes!

image

Together with Ichang, Cherryl and their chefs

Ichang is located at The Strip, Pala-o. Don’t forget to save their opening day on your calendar! The whole Ichang team will be waiting for you there.

Simplejoys Bakery and Cafe

Ever since I found out about Simplejoys Bakery and Cafe last year, my boyfriend and I have been quietly trying to hunt it down. The elusive cafe proved to be a challenging quest for both of us and it was only after our third failed attempt of locating it that we finally found it along J.R Borja and Burgos streets (close to the new bridge) in Cagayan de Oro City.

image

This whimsically designed concept café is a haven for those who love everything quaint and charming. Obviously, I’m part of that statistic. Hehe 🙂

image
image

Fully adorned with dainty decor, vintage finds, and shabby chic furnishing in pastel colors, it creates the perfect space to duck in for some afternoon tea and desserts.

image

Still full from our fill at Wild Onion, we opted to get some of their desserts only. We had their green tea gelato, chocolate avocado cake, and ube halaya frappe. While I genuinely enjoyed the ube halaya frappe and green tea gelato, the chocolate avocado cake is in a league of its own.

image

The cake comes with a chocolate coated breakfast cereal base and the middle is smeared with a silky, creamy avocado filling. Its topped with a rich chocolate ganache that has just the right amount of sweetness and then sprinkled with fine cocoa powder. This cake made a great impression on my first bite! I’m afraid to say that I’ve finally found a cake that I enjoy as much as Micky’s Cakes (if not, more).

Whoever thought that avocado and chocolate go well together is a freakin’ genius! If there’s only one thing you should try from their menu, it should be the chocolate avocado cake. For the love of everything holy, don’t miss it.

Simplejoys Bakery and Cafe should be expecting to see me more often. Not only is their place cozy and makes for great photo ops but the desserts are also worth the journey!

Wild Onion Pub and Grub

Centerpoint is the newest dining and entertainment hub located at Domingo Velez Street in Cagayan de Oro City. Lined with karaoke lounges, bars and restaurants, this strip truly comes alive at night.

image

One of the places to visit is a gastropub called Wild Onion Pub and Grub. They offer a casual dining experience and provide tasty food and specialty drinks at reasonable prices.

Classic Burger and Hiroshima Bombs are some of their best sellers so, of course, we had to try those.

image

Classic Burger 
Branded for a personal touch, this burger boasts a thick beef patty, packed with veggies that’s sandwiched between fluffy, tender buns. It also came with a side of crispy fries.

image

Cucumber Lemonade
Served refreshingly ice-cold, this delightful mix of cucumber juice and lemon juice is good for relieving the summer heat.

Hiroshima Bombs
These are croquettes filled with mashed potatoes, mozzarella cheese and jalapeno bits served with a sour cream aioli dip. The Hiroshima Bombs are the bomb! They were flavorsome and surprisingly substantial. To all fellow potato lovers, this is everything you need.

I actually prefer this one over the burger.

image

Dining at Wild Onion Pub and Grub was such a pleasure. The waiting staff was very accommodating and the food is good.

We will be back soon to try more of their food and when it’s not too early for cocktails. Happy Ending and Gugmang-Giatay sound too interesting too pass. Haha!

Wild Onion Pub and Grub offers:
15% discount on the total food bill every Monday
15% discount on the total food bill every Tuesday for Nurses, every Wednesday for Bank Employees and every Thursday for Teachers

Swimming at Ultrawinds Mountain Resort

image

Another attraction at Ultrawinds Mountain Resort is their Infinity Pool.

Gaze at the wonderful scenic backdrop as you have a dip and cool off during warmer days.

image

After your swim, you can enjoy watching the sun set here while sipping your favorite cocktail.

image

Sadly, we weren’t able to take a splash into the pool. However, we did enjoy the view. More reasons to come back I suppose. 🙂

Click here for more deets about Ultrawinds Mountain Resort.

Read about our glamping experience at Ultrawinds Mountain Resort
For insider tips about glamping go here.

Dining Al Fresco at Ultrawinds Mountain Resort

Ultrawinds Mountain Resort served a special Valentine’s Day menu for only 449 PHP per person.

image

Their rustic tablescape looked like it was taken right out from a Pinterest board.

image

The open air venue featured an exceptional view of the city lights.

image

But we chose to eat indoors, away from the blasting live entertainment. The buffet dinner started at 6:30 PM.

image

While the variety of food was not that extensive, the well-curated menu was impressive! The menu included Bagnet Salad, Seafood Herbed Pasta, Caramelized Pork Belly with Spicy Apple Slaw, Buttered Roast Beef with Rosemary, Grilled Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce and Dark Chocolate Frozen Cake.

Wine pairings were also available for an additional charge. We enjoyed the food so much we kept refilling our plates. Hehe! 🙂

image

The following day, we went back to the restaurant to check out the panoramic view of Cagayan de Oro during the day. But first, burgers. We sampled their BBQ and Cuban mini burgers.

I prefer the latter over the former.

Compared to our awesome dinner, they were alright.

image

The overlooking view of the verdant landscape during the day is nothing short of breathtaking.

Indeed, it makes an enchanting backdrop for events.

With soothing ambient music playing in the background, I can’t help but feel relaxed as the gentle wind caressed my face.

If you want to see the city of Cagayan de Oro in a different perspective with a relaxing atmosphere, visit Ultrawinds Mountain Resort now.

Know more about Ultrawinds Mountain Resort Menu here

Read about our glamping experience at Ultrawinds Mountain Resort
Click here for more deets about Ultrawinds Mountain Resort

For insider tips about glamping go here

Our Glamping Essentials

Try something new this Lenten holiday and plan for an impromptu glamping trip – be on the mountaintop, beach side or even just right outside your neighbor’s backyard!

Glamping is a portmanteau word made by the combination of words glamour and camping. To put it simply, glamping means to camp in style.

image

And nothing says glamping like a stylish, utilitarian bag that fits everything you need.

Pack sunscreen, toiletries, mosquito repellents, and an itch soothing balm. If possible, choose organic products for a healthier and greener choice. Also, bring a bottle of lavender oil for a good night’s sleep and a well-stocked first aid kit in case of emergency.

image

Of course, no glamping is ever complete without a S’mores Campfire Kit. Here, I used a recycled plastic food tray and placed in a stick, marshmallows, a Hershey’s chocolate bar and Graham crackers that I’ve divided into sections along marked lines.

Most importantly, never forget to bring lots of water and your campfire meals. When it comes to meals, you can choose to bring a handful of ingredients to cook at the campsite or have prepacked make-ahead meals for a more convenient option.

image

For our brunch at Ultrawinds Mountain Resort, we brought with us what’s easy to prepare. But as a foodie, I still couldn’t sacrifice flavor over convenience. So we had Na’a Italian Sausage, Delimondo Garlic, and Chili Corned Beef, Pili & Pino Banana and Cacao Granola, Swiss Miss Chocolate drink and Nestle Fresh Milk.

image

If you’re planning to cook at the campsite, bring outdoor cook and dining sets such as portable stove, butane gas canister, can opener, kettle, collapsible pans and other miscellaneous items like matches, plates, spoons, forks and pocket knife.

Always keep in mind to be responsible for your own waste. The environment is important to each and all of us so leave no trace. Inspect your campsite and rest areas for garbage or spilled food. Pack it in, pack it out.

Should you start a campfire, build a mound fire or use an established fire pan. Keep your fire to a manageable size and make sure to put it out when you break camp.

image

Lastly, just relax, enjoy and take Instagram-worthy photos! 😉

Read about our glamping experience at Ultrawinds Mountain Resort
Click here for more deets about Ultrawinds Mountain Resort

Glamping at Ultrawinds Mountain Resort

image

For this year’s Valentine’s Day, I surprised my boyfriend with a glamping experience at Ultrawinds Mountain Resort.

image

In turn, he reciprocated my gesture by treating us to Ultrawinds’ Valentine’s dinner buffet. The food was sooo good that we kept getting seconds. I’ll talk more about this in a separate post.

image

Right after our dinner date, we retreated back to the campsite.

Thankfully, we got a free golf cart ride so we didn’t have to walk all the way from the restaurant.

image

It was exceptionally quiet when we got there that you could hear a pin drop.

image

The cool evening air was constantly blowing across the grounds.

So for some warmth, we requested to build a campfire. Their staff brought in a ginormous fire pan, some firewood and a box of matches to start the fire. They also brought a handheld LED light for us to use so we can still have some illumination even after the campfire goes out. Great service! 🙂

image

The campfire brought joy and new life to the cold, dark night. We made ourselves a few S’mores before hitting the sack.

image

I woke up early the next day when the bright morning sunlight warmed my side of the tent. I just had to enjoy the spectacular view before my morning shower.

image

For our accommodation, we had to walk a flight of stairs in order to use their communal shower and toilet facilities. Be warned: there are no heaters so gird your loins for the icy morning showers.

image

We made our own breakfast using the outdoor cookware we borrowed from our friends – Elai of PS 95:11 and Porsche of THEYANGONE.

image

There’s the manbear ready to devour his brunch. Hehe. 🙂

image

I have to be honest though… I was disappointed at first because, once again, I fell victim to another batch of artistically rendered images. The interior of the tent and the campsite didn’t look exactly like what was posted on their website. But once I got past that, it wasn’t so bad after all.

We had such an awesome time that didn’t even matter anymore.

For a truly memorable family get together, romantic rendezvous or company outing, I recommend glamping at Ultrawinds Mountain Resort. It’s a refreshing outdoor experience that everyone should try!

EXPENSES
Safari Tent – 1099 PHP (peak season rate)
Bonfire – 30 PHP

Click here for more deets about Ultrawinds Mountain Resort
For glamping tips and ideas, read this

Ultrawinds Mountain Resort Travel Guide

image

Based atop the scenic hill in Pualas, Baungon, experience the fresh mountain breeze and relax at Ultrawinds Mountain Resort. This popular day trip destination offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the southern portion of Cagayan de Oro City. They have thrilling outdoor activities that will bring out the adventurer in you and add to your memorable experiences. Whether you’re planning for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family excursion, Ultrawinds Mountain Resort makes an ideal setting for an unforgettable holiday.

HOW TO GET THERE
Although it is technically located in Bukidnon, this mountain top resort is only 20 minutes away from downtown CDO.

image

By Private Vehicle
Driving all the way up to Ultrawinds Mountain Resort can be challenging even for experienced drivers. A powerful rear wheel car is highly recommended since the inclination is very steep. Should you have any hesitations going all the way up to Ultrawinds Mountain Resort, just park your vehicle at the CDO Convention Center and their shuttle will pick you up for free.

By Taxi
As of this posting, a taxi ride will cost around 250 PHP from downtown CDO all the way to Ultrawinds Mountain Resort. An arrangement can be done with the taxi driver to either wait for you or come back to pick you up.

By Ultrawinds Mountain Resort Shuttle

image

Ultrawinds Mountain Resort has a shuttle service which can fit up to 22 people. The round trip costs 899 PHP regardless of the number of passengers.

Their pick up and drop off point is at Dunkin Divisoria.

Cut off time for shuttle service at 8:30 PM, except for event bookings. Reservations required.

image

Brace yourself though because it’s going to be one helluva ride.

T’was like Hindang all over again, only rougher. It got me thinking if I was way overdressed for the trip… Maybe I should have been in my trekking attire.

image

TIP:
If there are only 1~5 passengers, ask for their Range Rover because it’s more comfortable. We never knew about this option because it was never brought up by the front desk officer when I made my booking.

By Ultrawinds Mountain Resort Toyota Super Grandia Van

Ultrawinds Mountain Resort has a van service which can fit up to 10 people. The round trip costs 1499 PHP regardless of the number of passengers. Their pick up and drop off point is at Dunkin Divisoria. Cut off time for shuttle service at 8:30 PM, except for event bookings. Reservations required.

By Jeepney
Take a jeepney going to Taguanao at the jeepney terminal by Rhapsody Suites in Cogon Market.

Get off at the crossing of Taguanao Highway and the Convention Center Access Road. Ultrawinds Mountain Resort can pick you up with their shuttle service for 200 PHP regardless of the number of passengers. Just keep in mind the maximum capacity of their shuttle service.

WHAT TO DO
Take a dip in their infinity pool
Glamp at their camping grounds and build a campfire
Dine alfresco while overlooking the cityscape of Cagayan de Oro
Experience thrilling outdoor adventures such as zip linecaving, horseback riding and more

ACCOMMODATIONS
Please note that check-in time in Ultrawinds Mountain Resort is 2 PM and check out time is 10 AM.

Hotel Rooms
Deluxe Double – 2350 PHP
Superior King – 2350 PHP
Upper Deluxe Double – 2250 PHP
Premiere King – 3999 PHP
*All rooms are good for 2 guests but Premiere King is good for 4 guests
*Rooms come with complimentary breakfast for two and free use of the infinity pool

*550 PHP per extra person with breakfast and swimming

Dormitory
Rate – 350 PHP per head/night
*Does not come with breakfast or swimming privileges
*Communal bathroom
*Minimum of 10 guests, maximum of 18 guests

Villa
Weekend Rate – 7550 PHP
Weekday Rate – 6550 PHP
*Includes 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a kitchenette and private veranda
*Contains 3 double beds in total
*Maximum of 15 guests if using existing beddings
*Does not come with breakfast privileges
*Rent extra beddings at 250 PHP
*Maximum of 7 guests with free swimming privileges

Safari Tent Camping
Rate – 999 PHP
*Good for 2 guests
*Tent can fit up to 5 guests

*Communal bathroom

*Comes with bed, pillow and blanket
*Does not come with breakfast and swimming privileges
*Additional 295 PHP per person with beddings, 195 PHP without beddings

AMENITIES
For more information, please check their website.

Infinity Pool
Adult  – 250 PHP
Children (8 years old and below) – 200 PHP
*Comes with snacks
*No outside food allowed in the pool area
*Strictly proper swimwear only

Zipline
Adult – 399 PHP
Children (10 years old and below) – 250 PHP

Hut
Rate – 500 PHP
*Located at the camping site
*12 hours of usage (until 9 PM only)
*Guests may bring their own food without corkage
*Food must be consumed in the hut

Others

Karaoke – 449 PHP/hour
Golf Cart – 699 PHP/half hour
Horseback riding – 200 PHP/hour
Billiards – 200 PHP/hour
Darts – 200 PHP/hour
Badminton – 250 PHP/hour
Full HD Projector – 1499 PHP/every 4 hours

Entrance Free for Walk-in Guests
Adult – 100 PHP
Child – 50 PHP
*Consumable (Restaurant, Zipline, Infinity Pool)

Prices are subject to change without prior notice. 

Tedts has moved!

image

After more than a decade of opening its doors to the public, Tedts has finally bid adieu to their Roxas branch in favor of a bigger and better location.

image

Taking pride in sharing their family recipes since 2005, this homegrown cafe and bakery has now officially become a household name here in Iligan. I’ve been a Tedts loyalista for many, many years and to see them grow this big makes my heart swell with pride and joy. 

image

Today, they have launched the soft opening of their Quezon branch which is located right across Rosalinda store. 

image

They gave free cupcakes to their first 150 customers and featured independent music artists to play live in the background.

image

Tedts is known for their delicious artisan cupcakes which have become a popular pasalubong for both locals and transient tourists. Each cupcake is handcrafted with love and baked fresh from scratch everyday.

Don’t miss out on Iligan’s finest delicious treats and head on over to Tedts! In case you’re wondering, their second location at Zamora-Lluch Streets is still operating.

Where to Stay in Surigao City – Le Chard Place Bed and Breakfast

At Day Zero of our Siargao excursion, my friends and I spent a night in Surigao City and crashed at Le Chard Place Bed and Breakfast for a much-needed respite from the grueling 15-hour land trip.

image

Fronting the highway, Le Chard Place Bed and Breakfast is really hard to miss. It is conveniently located near the bus terminal and the airport. Also, it is only a short stroll away from Gaisano Capital, a local shopping mall.

image

This budget hotel has a sleek, contemporary aesthetic design. The vibrant accent colors add a fun, casual feel to the space.

image
image

Le Chard Place Bed and Breakfast is kept spotlessly clean and the hallway leading to our room is quiet.

image

We booked their suite room and amenities include TV, hot shower and fridge. Since we were given the smallest suite room, ours didn’t come with a lounge area and fridge as shown in the photo above. But we had access to their WiFi which they said is supposedly accessible at the reception area only. Awesome trade-off is awesome.

image

Le Chard Place Bed and Breakfast is a great place to stay. We slept comfortably and felt very safe during our stay. It is a reasonably priced accommodation with friendly and helpful staff. Because of its strategic location, places near or far are easily accessible and transportation is not a problem even during ungodly hours.

EXPENSES
Suite room without breakfast – 1400 PHP
Extra bed – 330 PHP

Know more about Le Chard Place Bed and Breakfast rooms and rates, click here

Read my Siargao Travel Guide here

Some images are taken from Google Images and are believed to be in the public domain. No copyright infringement intended. Credit is given where it is due.