Nurture Wellness Village

The whole family just got back from Tagaytay where we spent 4 days perfecting the art of doing nothing. We so loved the time to just lounge, watch Korean series, eat, sleep, repeat. But of course, for myself, we'll have to insert mommy duties. Especially now that Baby Y is a couple of weeks from turning 1, he's grown really demanding.

So sad the vacay had to end. Time really flies when you're having fun! But before heading home, we decided to check out a farm nearby--Nurture Wellness Village. Good thing they have a resto where we can have our lunch. It was the perfect excuse to extend our trip for even just a bit. 

Since we were advised that food would take a while to be served, we had time to roam the place. It houses a spa offering specialty massages and other wellness treatments, an organic cafe, and also villas and suites for guests who wish to linger. It may also be the first to offer glamping (glamourous camping)! 

Dining area

Photo credits: Nurture Wellness Village website

We spotted their cutesy pool near the dining area and Baby Y squealed with delight as we took some photos by the poolside. 

Photo credits: tripadvisor

The overall theme of the place appeared Filipino, with huts for villas and accessories showcasing Filipino culture. It recently rained so the grounds were on the muddy side, but all else seem to be well-maintained. Restrooms were particularly clean also. 

I would say it was an interesting place, at least for those seeking peace and quiet. There were enough activities to engage in but which would not disrupt the serene and relaxed vibe of the place. Rye seemed to like the place too since he went about suggesting it could pass for a wedding venue. 

Photo from website: Sample wedding ceremony set up in their Garden

Not far off from our farm-style wedding. We can just do re-arrangements to suit our theme. So, off we went to the Reception to inquire about their rates.

Package:

Exclusive use of the village

Weekdays: Php180,000 

Weekends: Php200,000

Non-Exclusive use is offered on weekdays only for Php160,000

Rates are for a guaranteed guests of 100 and are net of taxes and service charge already. Inclusions are use of the garden or pavillion for 5 hours, a room for the bride to prep, buffet meals, basic set up, and professional usherettes and wait staff. For those wondering, they use Tiffany chairs for the event.  

Buffet meal consists of your choice of 3 appetizers, a soup, salad and dressing, pasta, dessert, and your choice of 3 main course. For the drinks, you get to choose one of their house blend teas that will be served both as welcome drinks and during the meal proper.

Plus couples get to stay in one of their rooms overnight for free, with breakfast, massage and even a natural facial. To make their offer even more irresistible for couples, thevenue may be used for free for prenuptial shoot! Mmmm... That's not all! They also offer a lot of upgrades which would normally cost additional from other caterers.  

Rye's Thoughts:

It was a good place. One stop shop. And fits most of our requirements. We could probably go back to discuss other concerns with their AE.

My Thoughts:

I liked the ambiance. Thumbs up too for all their courteous staff! We could consider doing a weekday event to save up on the costs. Rates seemed reasonable given all the inclusions and freebies. Free use of venue for the prenup shoot is such a bonus, too.

Verdict:

Ohhh the food... it failed to impress. After our meal, which took really long to be served by the way, we were not so excited about the place anymore. We would not want our guests to travel all the way to Tagaytay and not be thrilled with the food. On a second note though, they offer free food tasting for the couple. I just don't know how it goes. Some venues require booking before you can proceed with the food tasting. 

Sta. Elena Fun Farm: Getting Started with Venue-Hunting

This is a super, super late post but one that is still relevant since it is still appropriate for our target theme.

Sta. Elena Fun Farms, also known as Holy Carabao Farms, was actually the first picnic or farm-style venue that we went to. This was around the second half of 2014.

I read about it in Rebellious Bride, where the bride really wanted a farm wedding and it was non-negotiable. Good for her that she chanced upon this place in Laguna.

Source: http://www.rebelliousbrides.com/2011/09/rebellious-bride-beverly.html

http://www.rebelliousbrides.com/2011/09/rebellious-bride-beverly.html

I loved their wedding and all the details that they injected into it. If you want to read more about it, the bride's own recount of the event is here: http://www.wstorehouse.com/Blog/fourth.

My favorite part was probably when the  bride rode a carabao cart to the ceremony venue! Sooo cute!

So, I immediately told Rye about it and off we went to Laguna to see the place for ourselves.

This greets guests as they enter the farm premises. Upon seeing it, I grew more excited!

There was also this area where guests can boat and fish. I didn't feel like paddling so I opted to just try fishing.

That's the Kuripot Bride with the future mom-in-law

No fish favored our bait though so we gave up and just checked other parts of the farm.

Indeed, Sta. Elena Fun Farm was first: definitely a farm and second, it was fun! Wide grounds, horses, carabaos, ducks, cows, and even rabbits! Feeding of animals was allowed and there were lots of areas where kids can freely run around and play. Horseback riding and carabao-cart riding were also allowed. There was even a zipline!

There was a pavilion where guests can opt to take their meals. The farm had no restaurant or cafe yet so bringing in of food was encouraged.

Tables and chairs inside were a combination of wooden benches and these:

I liked that they had the type of tables and benches that we wanted. Only minor cleaning and retouching of varnish or paint were needed and they would be perfect for the wedding.

We also toyed with the idea of holding the ceremony in the Amphitheater. Pardon the photo, but at least you get the idea.

See the bridge? That's where I planned to walk to the tune of Pachelbel's Canon. Oh well, a lot of brides have walked the aisle along this tune so we might change it.

Package:
Since this was the first major venue we visited, we had no idea as to how much rates go. Upon inquiring, I was informed the whole place can be rented for P30,000++ for a maximum of 6 hours, inclusive of ingres and egress.

Said rate includes the use of pavilion, restrooms, electricity, and grounds for the ceremony or even reception. Guests may also try fishing, boating, animal-feeding, and horseback riding for free, at least before the ceremony starts.

Use of tables and benches is already included in the package. However, they charge P5,000 corkage fee for the caterer, which I think is unfair since they do not have any resto or cafe within the farm.


Rye's Thoughts:
He liked the place so much he wanted us to book or at least pay the downpayment. His family resides in Binan Laguna so he didn't really find the place far.


My Thoughts:

What I really liked about the place was the vast grounds. We can push through with the picnic affair that we wanted without much constraint as to space. We can get very creative without spending too much on decor. The caretaker even told us we can do barbecue! Sounds fun!

However, as with other outdoor venues, contingency plans for rain should be in place. I also liked the amphitheater but we will have to consider the number of guests that it can accommodate.

As to the rates, P30K was pricey for me. Since it is an out-of-town venue, we will have to shell out funds for transportation, preps, and even accommodation which will further increase the overall cost. Some guests may also find it inconvenient, especially those who will only be commuting.

Also, the place had no holding room or any area where we can prepare. While the restrooms were clean, this would not be sufficient to get everyone groomed and made-up. So, hotel preps will definitely eat up on our budget if we will push through with Sta. Elena Fun Farm.


Verdict:
Hard to make one yet as it is the first venue we checked. If budget were not an issue though, this would definitely make it to our Top 5!

Food Taste Date Reloaded Part 2: Manila Catering and CVJ Catering

Manila Catering

This is the same group behind FISH, Our Kitchen, and Azaya Resort so I expected a bit more from them given their background in the industry.

I was searching for to-go food for the baptismal party of Baby Yo when I chanced upon Manila Catering and decided to attend their Food Tasting event at the Gazebo Royale last Sunday. We live very near the venue so I also invited my two sisters K and G to come along, to which they excitedly agreed of course. I was excited for them too as it was their first food tasting event.

We got to the venue a little after lunch time and K and G were eager to start off with the food tasting as they haven’t eaten yet… only to be disappointed after. This was my plate. Forgive the plating, a little messy I know. But I wouldn’t have minded had the food tasted good. Sad to say, nothing excited my palate. 

                From pasta, clockwise: Penne in Pomodoro, Carbonara, Korean Beef Stew, Beef Curry, Pork belly,                    Chicken Teriyaki, Baked Chicken

If I really had to choose, the chicken teriyaki would have to be the best dish on this lot. I got only a very small portion, it doesn't even seem visible on my plate. I know my messy plating is to blame for that. Anyway, nothing tasted really special and I thought the dishes were just glorified carinderia meals. Definitely not the type I will serve on my wedding. Most were too salty for my liking. Forgive me if I sound mean, but I'm just trying to describe the taste as honestly as I can.

There was also a salad bar but I was running low on tummy space so I decided to skip that part. Desserts were fruit tarts, mini silvana balls, and choco mousse. All tasted fine, with the mousse being extra sweet for my liking.  

Drinks came in two flavors: dalandan and four seasons. They also have mocktails and we got to try all three: Mango, Watermelon, and Citrus. Of the three, I enjoyed only the citrus variant. The other two tasted strongly of powdered juice with slices of lime or watermelon mixed in.

Package:

Their highest package was priced at P930/head plus VAT. This already includes a 3-layer cake, doves, bridal car or emcee, wine, tables, chairs, linens, centrepieces, and basic styling. 

Rye's Thoughts:
He enjoyed the citrus mocktail but he wasn't paying P930 for that alone. 

My Thoughts:
Price-wise, they are cheaper than Shekinah. The problem is, I wasn’t that excited with their dishes. My sisters weren’t also. We couldn’t remember a single dish we seriously enjoyed.

We also didn't connect with our AE. He was able to address most of our concerns but there was just something that felt off. It didn't take long for us to decide Manila Catering wasn't for us. After the meeting with our AE, we hurried off to our next destination.

Verdict:

Not for us

CVJ Catering

We were actually scheduled for an ocular of Light of Love events place but CVJ happened to have a food tasting event at the time so we were invited to sample their dishes as well. We came in a little before 3pm and the event was about to close so some dishes were no longer available, much to the dismay of my sister G. She said we should have just visited Light of Love first instead of Manila Catering. 

Having been to two food tasting events already, I was no longer keen on trying more dishes. CVJ was also not among our options. But since we were already there and our AE was still not available for discussion, I got myself small portions of the remaining dishes.

Service was already slow. Maybe because the event was drawing to a close already and they were exhausted by the time we came. I was a bit turned off though. Imagine some waiters sleeping on the buffet spread during your event. This was just a food tasting event. I’m sure an actual wedding will even be more demanding. If this was how their servers worked, CVJ is definitely off the list.

As to taste, I couldn’t comment much except that none of those I tried caught my attention. My sister G who loves to eat didn’t enjoy the dishes either. We liked the iced tea though. It tasted like pineapple juice was mixed in. desserts came in a number of pastel-colored sponge cakes, cake pops, and silvannas. The colors were cute but that’s just it. Nothing really tickled my fancy.

I didn’t get their rates anymore.

Food Taste Date # 2: Tasteful Tastings Year 2 (Part 2)

As promised, here's the continuation of our FTD2, this time covering Ibarra's, Richgold, Queensland, and Ilustrado.

4th Stop: Ibarra's 
Let me begin by saying that this was a total letdown. While the table setting and the buffet spread were presentable enough, I couldn't say the same for the food.

Clockwise from top left: Lasagna, Bars, Honey-glazed Pork, Baked Chicken

Yes, that's paper plate and a plastic fork in the photo. In my opinion, events like this reflect the kind of service you extend to your clients. I didn't think it was wise to use disposables. But anyway, it was their call. Besides, we were there for the food, so I really wouldn't have minded had the food tasted great.

We barely touched what's on our plate. Aside from the fact that we were running really low on tummy space, the dishes were simply not appetizing. The pork was tough, as though it had been cooked and recooked a number of times already. Pasta was a bit soggy and tasted like store-bought lasagna. Baked chicken was just okay, I have tasted better versions from lesser known caterers. In short, dishes served were not what we would expect from a major player in the field. Especially considering that it was a marketing event, they could have prepared a more palatable, if not impressive, menu set.

What disappointed us most were their desserts--a variety of bars which had the same taste and same dry and coarse texture. I am not a professional baker but I can honestly claim I can do better desserts than what they brought. And in my book, a mediocre dessert spread is a major fail.

Package:
If you are still curious about their packages, here goes:

Standard Wedding Package for 150 pax - P104,250.00

Deluxe Wedding Package for 150 pax - P130,500.00

Plus 12% VAT

Aside from the usual buffet set-up and basic styling, the rates already include the use of a fully air-conditioned function room, a courtesy room, 3-hour use of bridal car, 3-layered fondant cake, bottle of wine, doves, guest book, basic sound system, and your choice of a 2-hour photobooth or 75 pieces of souvenir. Their quotation indicates that they do not require service charge and security deposit.

Based on this, estimated cost per head amounts to a little less than P800, with a function room and bridal car already provided.

Rye's Thoughts
Was Ibarra's really a big name in the events and catering business?

My Thoughts
If they cannot handle a food tasting event, how can they be expected to handle wedding feasts? The sample menu they provided us had a more interesting variety of dishes for couples to choose from. They even offer on-the-spot cooking of pasta, grill station, and carvery. Still, it's a bit frightening to get their services based on what we experienced. I was not satisfied with the food and for P800 per head, I expected a bit more. The free use of a function room and bridal car is a good come-on but the food was a deal-breaker.

Verdict:
Not for us.


5th Stop: Richgold Catering
First, Jed, the AE, was very accommodating and very insightful. It was as if he really wanted to help us prepare the most appropriate feast for our wedding day. At least, that's how I felt. But while we appreciate Jed's professionalism and enthusiasm, it's the quality of food and the value for money that matter.

We were immediately given seats and advised that food will be served shortly. I just requested them for a plate to share. Still, they gave us generous servings of their menu for that day.

Vegetable Lumpia, Mango Cheesecake, Oreo Cheesecake

Clockwise from top: Korean Beef Stew, Breaded Pork Chop, Baked Fish with salsa,
Lemon Chicken, Pasta in Cream Sauce

My review of the food may not be reliable since I was too full by this time. Rye said the chicken had no flavor. You wouldn't be able to say it was Lemon Chicken if it weren't for that small slice of lemon you can see on the photo. Pasta was soggy. Pork was lying on a bed of mayo. Breading was thick, and the meat in between was really thin. The fish didn't look inviting as well. We didn't touch it. If I paid for this plate, I will definitely be complaining.

Served on a separate plate was the lumpia. Since I like lumpia, I tried it and found the taste to my liking. At least, there was something I enjoyed from their dishes. The cheesecakes were those kinds made with gelatin. They reminded me of the desserts sold at our office canteen. Minus points for that alone.

Rye and I both agreed that the lemonade, with its interesting blue hue, was a refreshing break from all the sweet drinks served by the other caterers.

Packages:
The material they gave us during the event was actually a promotional offer, which I would be writing on a separate post. It's tie-up with Elements at Centris. However, for their usual rates, their website indicates that their lowest package is at P777 per pax, plus 10% government tax, bringing the cost to a little over P800 per head. For more details, you may want to visit Richgold's site.

Rye's Thoughts
This one was better than Ibarra's, but still the food was barely passable for him. The promo was a bit tempting. If we move our wedding date to a month earlier, we could avail of another P25,000 discount. But then, his heart was still set on an outdoor venue. Oh, okay, my heart is too. I just feel like a function hall is not for me.

My Thoughts:
Not really interested in the food. I thought the dishes looked lifeless and uninviting. They could have presented a more balanced menu for the event, in terms of taste and color.

Verdict:
We were offered a free food tasting for two. We are still unsure if that interests us or not. Pricewise though, Richgold is still beyond our budget, even with their promo.


6th Stop: Ilustrado
If there was one thing I remembered about Ilustrado was that the waiters didn't seem friendly at all. I was almost done getting food from the buffet spread when a waiter approached me and told me to just wait to be served at our table. I felt a bit embarrassed with the way he informed me. Anyway, off I went to our table with my plate of dishes I wanted to sample.

Penne in Red Sauce, Roast Beef, Seafood Paella

There were a few more dishes in the spread but I only wanted to try these. When Rye saw the paella, he felt a bit regretful for not trying Ilustrado earlier on. We both like paella and were sure we wouldn't get to eat much due to our already very limited tummy space. So to the our mouths the paella went. To be honest though, it was nothing really special. It didn't have that aroma and flavor distinct to paella. The shrimp was overcooked it was difficult to remove its shell. If I were to eat this with my eyes closed, I wouldn't be able to guess it's paella. Pasta was al dente, the sauce tasted like your usual red sauce. Sorry I forgot to check what type of sauce it was. I only managed to eat three or four pieces of penne. If there were any redeeming factor to this plate, that would be the roast beef. It was tender and was flavored well. Even without sauce or gravy, it was good.

The food the waiter promised me came a few minutes after Rye and I were done with our plate. I just politely told the server we have eaten our share already and just requested a couple a drinks for us since no water was served at the tables.

Packages:
The packages offered by Ilustrado are already inclusive of venue use, which translates to major savings. You can choose from their main dining room, a number of halls or function rooms, and their courtyard or garden. They also do off-site catering. I just do not know if they charge extra for that.

The following are inclusive of government taxes and services charges and apply to a minimum of 150 persons.

Champagne - P1,180.00 per pax

Silver - P1,580.00 per pax

Gold - P1,780.00 pax

With higher packages, you get to choose more appetizers, soup, salads, and desserts for your buffet spread. Rates already include usual buffet set-up, basic styling, 3-hour use of bridal car, 3-layered fondant cake, basic sound system, wine for toasting,  For VIPs, they use tiffany chairs. For guests, they use covered chairs with ribbon garb of your motif

Other interesting freebies in their packages are an overnight stay at their partner hotels, a torch parade during cake-cutting for outdoor or garden venues, location map for your guests, and a gift certificate at their restaurant should you opt to forego their free food tasting.

Rye's Thoughts:
He was not keen on serving Filipino or Spanish fare to our guests and the paella didn't help a bit. Rates are steep even with the venue already factored in.

My Thoughts:
I have been to Intramuros a number of times but have never thought of trying out Ilustrado. Now, I am a bit intrigued as to how their courtyard looks like. The pictures on their website are limited so I might need to drop by one of these days just to see for myself if the garden would suit our theme.

Then there's the food to consider. I loooove paella but I didn't like their version at the event. And of course, the price... Will the free venue and overnight hotel stay dangled infront of us be worth spending at least P1,180 per head? Maybe not.

Verdict:
Not for us.


7th Stop: Queensland Catering
One of our couple friends got Queensland's services for their wedding so we had an idea of how much they were charging. I didn't get to attend their wedding so I was still curious as to how they fared in the taste department.

I thought they had an interesting set of menu compared to the others. Salad was an interesting mix of watermelon, cucumber, and some greens tossed in. There was also roast beef which my tastebuds were growing tired of already, and rice. I should have stopped by their booth earlier. Since I was already feeling bloated, I only chose these:

Pita bread with Spinach and Artichoke Dip, Chicken Flambe, Fettuccine

Sorry for the messy plating. Promise, this tasted more appetizing than how it looks. The spinach and artichoke dip was really good. I loved it. Or maybe it's just because I love dips. My tastebuds welcomed the changed in texture and flavor. You could actually taste the spinach and bits of artichoke mixed in with the cream cheese. If I weren't too full, I would have gotten another serving of this. Chicken flambe tasted fine. It was my first time to try it. I didn't even know what flambe was so I can't tell if tasted right or otherwise. Pasta was al dente and was tossed in what I can only guess as olive oil. I forgot to get the full name of this dish. It was also another break from the tomato-based and cream-based pasta served by the others.

Packages:
I forgot to get materials from them during the event. My bad! I remember they have packages below P400 per head in their old website. They have a new website that I find a bit confusing to navigate. I still haven't seen where the rates are indicate. Good thing our friend shared with us how much they were charged for their wedding early this year. Without all the add-ons they availed of, food per head was priced at P335.00 only. Menu consisted of rice, soup, salad, pasta, 4 main dishes, 2 kinds of dessert, and drinks. However, they charged equipment fee, delivery fee and hauling fees which brought the cost to about P385 per head. Still affordable, right?

Rye's Thoughts
No comment on the food. He didn't eat a bite from my plate. As to price, he couldn't complain. This is the only caterer in the event below P500 per head.

My Thoughts
Next food tasting event, if Queensland is participating, I will make sure to drop by them first. I didn't expect much from them since their old website is not really informative and they have mixed reviews from various clients. However, I actually enjoyed their food. Or at least, these three that I got to taste. Plus, we found the rates they quoted our friends appropriate for our budget. Swak! Pasok sa banga! But I didn't have that "meant for each other" feel just yet... I am still awaiting their reply to my quotation request.

Verdict:
At last, a potential caterer. For another round of food tasting.


Last Stop: Purpledish Catering
For our last stop, we decided not to eat anymore since we have already sampled Purpledish the day before. We didn't even check what's on their menu for the event since we were already too full. We just dropped by to get our passport stamped.


Overall, we were glad to have attended the event. Not only were we able to sample dishes from a lot of caterers for free, Rye and I were also able to bond. I enjoyed listening to his comments. He, on the other hand, enjoyed watching me eat. Next food taste date would be at the Big Banquet 2, which is an even bigger event as it will be participated by the best and biggest caterers in the metro.

Food Taste Date # 2: Tasteful Tastings Year 2 (Part 1)

Just a day after our FTD1, Rye and I were already up for our next food taste date--an event hosted by BridalBook for the stylish bride and debutante. What's good about this event is that 10 caterers plus 2 cake suppliers will be featured. Supposedly, they will be bringing in their bestsellers. However, when we got there, we learned that Albergus and Bizu were not participating. But not to worry, there were still 8 caterers and a bite from each will surely be more than enough to fill our hungry tummies.

Our passport for food taste hopping

We arrived a few minutes before 11am and they were still setting up. Being early indeed has its perks as registration was a breeze (no queues yet!) and we had the liberty to choose where to dine first. What we forgot was to take photos of the table settings because I was too excited for the food. Rye managed to get a few shots to give you at least an idea of how the set ups were. Three hours later, and a heavy downpour of rain, we finally bid the event goodbye.

While I was able to visit all 8 participating caterers (yup, I'm such a glutton), I will just detail the first four we sampled. We were full by the time we got to the 5th stop that our tastebuds were no longer reliable. We just decided to share a plate to have a bite of what the other caterers had to showcase that day.

Fee: Free!
You just need to walk-in, even your companion can participate in the event. But the first 200 participants who pre-register online were given lootbags. Awww... No lootbag for me.

1st Stop: The Posh Caterer

Clockwise from top left: Fish Fillet, Grilled Chicken Teriyaki,
Roast Beef w/ Mushroom Sauce, Lasagna al Forno

Drinks served was fruit punch with apple slices but tasted of pomelo with a hint of apple juice. It was a bit too sweet for my liking. The color was a nice blush though. Appetizer was called crudites, which were sliced fresh veggies (cucumber, carrots, and turnip) in a bed of mayo. The presentation was cute but getting the veggies was a bit challenging due to the small opening of the shot glass. Dessert was just your usual mango crepe. Taste was nothing worth the extra calories.

Of the items on the plate, I only enjoyed the chicken and the lasagna. The fish (cream dory) didn't taste fresh at all. The beef, on the other hand, was tough. It was a task to slice a portion without a steak knife and chewing on it was another story. There was also nothing exceptional about its gravy. I would say it was a far cry from the roast beef we sampled from Purpledish the day before.

The Posh Caterer is actually a subsidiary of n.e. Catering. Their rates are higher due to the elegant themed wedding packages offered. Available themes are Modern Romance, Rustic, Vintage Chic, and Beach but these are upgradable depending on the couple's preference.

Packages:
Their rates start at P145,000 and are for the first 100 pax only. This includes basic styling, tiffany chairs, a 3-layered fondant cake, a bottle of wine, table numbers and menu cards, a pair of doves, program emcee, a photo booth for 2 hours, and basic sounds and lights. The highest package is at P206,000. Rates vary depending on the menu selection. You also need to add 12% EVAT, 10% service fee, and delivery charges for venues outside Metro Manila. For December affairs, prepare 20% service fee instead of just 10%.

Based on this, a couple getting married within Metro Manila will have to pay at least P176,000 for food, venue styling, and a few freebies thrown in. That is P1,760 per head! And that is their cheapest, most basic package. I won't go over their other terms and conditions that basically just adds up to your bill.

Rye's Thoughts
No way are we spending this amount for food that he didn't really enjoy. He didn't care about the freebies as we could get most of these at cheaper prices. Plus, we will definitely have to pay more as we are considering out-of-town venues.

My Thoughts
If we were willing to spend this much per head, we'd rather get Purpledish. Who knows who else we can afford given this budget. Food was nothing special, honestly. Their quotation says free assorted candy or dessert bar, but the most you get for the cheapest package is three kinds of dessert. There was also nothing impressive about the styling they showcased during the event.

Verdict:
Definitely off our list of potential caterers.

2nd Stop: The Old Bonifacio Catering

Clockwise from top left: Chicken wrapped in Bacon, Beef Kofta,
Baked Norwegian Salmon, Baby Back Ribs

Of all caterers, this one was Rye's favorite. Not mine, but I would have to agree that the dishes they served tasted better than most. The chicken seemed uniteresting until you take a bite. Good thing, Rye gave it a chance. It was simply made, maybe marinated then grilled but the taste was clean and had a distinct smoky flavor. I don't get what the bacon was for, though. It didn't contribute to the taste in any way. The beef kofta was okay, nothing I would rave about. What we loved really were the baked salmon and the ribs! The salmon didn't taste fishy at all but the meat was still moist. Love, love. We actually wanted to get second helpings. Their version is better than that of Purpledish. The ribs were tender and seasoned just the way Rye and I like, not too sweet, with the flavor of the meat still distinguishable.

They also served Penne in Tomato Garlic with Arugula (not in photos though). Rye had no interest in trying it and there was really nothing to miss. It was al dente pasta with a subtle taste of tomato and garlic. The arugula, I didn't find.

What we didn't like: Drinks served was your usual powdered iced tea. No desserts, too.

Packages:
These packages are net, meaning the taxes and service charges are already factored in. However, this applies to Metro Manila venues only.

100 pax - P85,400

150 pax - P128,100

Rates already include standard venue set up, a 3-layered fondant cake, wine for toasting, table numbers and menu cards, and complimentary food tasting for two. And just in case you're wondering, they use tiffany chairs. No added costs, yey! They have higher packages if you wish to serve a greater variety of dishes in your reception but the most you'll pay is P164,700 for 150 pax.

Rye's Thoughts
He regrets getting just a small portion of the ribs and salmon. He definitely wants to try dining in their resto, which is in Mandaluyong. But as our caterer, he simply shrugged his shoulders.

My Thoughts
At P854 per head, this is one of the more affordable caterers from among the participants. Honestly though, that is still too much for food and venue styling alone. I had no problems with the food but I didn't have that "this is it" feeling just yet. Let's see how a date with Rye in their resto will turn out.

Verdict:
For future consideration

3rd Stop: Josiah's Catering
Among the participants, this is the CATERER. Probably, almost everyone knows Josiah's Catering. And due to its brand, expectations were really high, at least from my end. So, here's what's on my plate:

Clockwise from top: Penne with Sundried Tomato Pesto, Slow Roasted US Beef,
Sugar-glazed Pork Shoulder, Stuffed Chicken, Pan-seared Cobbler w/ Mango Butter Sauce 

Presentation was unarguably from a high-end provider and you can tell the wait staff is really trained. As for the food, it was the chicken that stood out. It was stuffed with sundried tomatoes and cream cheese. The meat was tender and still juicy and the taste of sundried tomatoes went well with the cream cheese. Even without the sauce, the dish will still be a hit. The pasta was al dente but I totally forgot how it tasted. The fish would not have survived without the sauce, which in this case was mango butter. I was surprised to know that this two blends well. Might try making my own version of mango butter sauce at home. The pork was too sweet for a main course. Nakakaumay. I  could have enjoyed this more if we were served rice to balance the flavor. The roast beef in its au jus was tender. It was good that the portion I got was more meaty than fatty. Rye tried it with what seemed like mushroom gravy but found au jus more enjoyable.

What excited me about our stop at Josiah's were their sweet offerings! The array of desserts was a visual feast. I love displays like this. Makes eating dessert more fun! Soon, it was time to taste them and I must say Josiah's didn't disappoint. My tastebuds were having such a blast. Each had a distinct flavor of its own even when I ate them bite after bite. I also got to try their Peanut Butter Mousse (not in photo). Full of peanut butter goodness albeit too sweet for my liking. Serving was small which I think is just appropriate for a dessert that rich. Too bad though, their packages only allows you to choose two kinds. Well, you can always pay more for an extra dose of these sweet things.

Clockwise from top left: Peach & Mango Panna Cotta, Red Velvet Cake,
White Chocolate Cake, Mango Shortcake

Packages:
Their Luxe Wedding Package for a minimum of 150 pax start at P165,000, all in. So, no more worries about service fees and taxes. For venues outside Metro Manila, fee is P15,000 and up. This package already covers basic styling, banquet essentials, candles and table numbers, bottle of wine, and even personalized note cards for guests' messages to the couple. For seating, they use Sorrento banquet chairs with cushion.

Freebies are also given depending on your number of guests but may range from cakes, emcee, or even a bridal car. Josiah's also offer a broad range of themes, samples of which are on their website.

Rye's Thoughts:
He prefers Old Bonifacio's food and that Josiah's dishes were too fancy for his taste. But if the rates are within our budget, he wouldn't mind getting Josiah's. After all, he did enjoy the desserts and the Stuffed Chicken.

My Thoughts:
Having already established a reputation in the industry, I don't doubt Josiah's could deliver. However, getting them will mean P180,000 (ncluding the out-of-town fee) off our budget or P1,200 per head. On a lighter note though, I was actually expecting higher rates and was surprised to learn they charge even lower than other (lesser known) caterers.

Verdict:
We like Josiah's but the budget pie says otherwise.

Pretty long post, huh? I wanted to include so much details in their packages to make this useful and informative but that will mean a much longer post. Besides, you can always drop these caterers a note and they immediately reply. Up next will be Ibarra's, Queensland, and Ilustrado.