Great Taste Brown Barako Coffee

     Since winning the title of “Mr. Pogi” in 1996, Jericho Rosales has grown before the eyes of millions of Filipinos. Today, aside from being a full-fledged actor, Echo is also a noted singer, established businessman, and loving husband, among other real-life roles he plays.

     Along with being committed to his craft and personal life, the new Great Taste Brown Barako coffee endorser makes it a point to live a meaningful, well-balanced life. His lengthy showbiz stint has taught him the value of pursuing his career along with other endeavors to keep his passions aflame.

Great Taste Brown Barako Coffee

Metro Moms Holiday Pampering 2019 at Lemon Tree Salon and Cafe

     December is one of the busiest months because of reunions, gatherings, and parties. It's also the time of the year where everyone experiences stress from holiday-related stuff that's why we all need to settle down and have me-time to recharge. There are so many things to be thankful for this 2020 and one of those are blogger friends who became sisters in all things mommy and self-care. 

     We created a website called Metro Moms PH with a mantra that “Every mom needs to take care of herself.” Here, we talk about health and wellness, beauty and fashion and lifestyle topics that'll help rock motherhood. In line with this, we went on a much needed holiday pampering and bonding as our first event last year at Lemon Tree Salon and Cafe with our dear readers. Sharing highlights of our sparty after the jump!

Metro Moms Holiday Pampering 2019 at Lemon Tree Salon and Cafe
The Metro Moms PH: Yours truly, Mhaan of Mommy Rockin' in Style, Louisa of The Art of Being a Mom, and Jen Maslang of Shopgirl Jen

Feature: The CBTL 2018 Giving Journal

     For the past six years, I've been consistent in jotting notes in my planner every day. I write down my father's dialysis schedule, my events, what I ate that day, and all the activities that I'll be doing for the week. This coming 2018, I'll be using a new planner and it's The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf's Giving Journal. It's my first CBTL Giving Journal that's why I'm so excited to use this come January 1, 2018.

     2018 marks the 10th year of the giving journal. The ones you'll see in CBTL stores are the 10th edition planners that comes in 4 colors- green, gray, blue, and white- a do it yourself cover of the giving journal. More details about The CBTL 2018 Giving Journal after the jump.

Feature: The CBTL 2018 Giving Journal

Feature: Great Taste Muscovado

     I'm a certified coffee addict. I can't start the day without coffee and I think caffeine runs my body. Hahaha! I'm one of the many coffee lovers who love to wake up to the rich aroma that energizes up the senses.

     Coffee is one of the go-to drinks of every Pinoy when they want a perk up in the morning or relax after a stressful day. It has even become a part of their lifestyle to explore new rich flavors to satisfy their thirst for coffee. Great news from Great Taste! Here's a new flavor that is sure to capture Filipino’s penchant for coffee- Great Taste Muscovado.

Feature: Great Taste Muscovado

Happy Coffee Bean Day 2017

     I'm a self-confessed coffee addict. Coffee is life that's why I always start my day by drinking a cup of my favorite caffeine fix. Waking up to a new day is a blessing and I'm looking forward to this moment everyday because it's another day to spend with my family and of coffee.

     As a coffee lover, I would like to commend The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf's participation in International Coffee Day. This year, their aim is to give back to their loyal customers, coffee enthusiasts and everyone who wakes up everyday to work hard for their families.

Happy Coffee Bean Day

Feature: Vitasoy- The Soy Experts

     It was in Singapore where I first tasted Vitasoy. It is a soy milk brand offered in different flavors. Months ago, I saw Vitasoy on grocery shelves. I was doing my weekly grocery shopping when I stumbled upon Vitasoy Coffee flavor. The coffee lover in me got excited and bought bottles to stock at home.

     YES!!! The well-loved soy milk from Hong Kong is finally here! Celebrate real goodness with the delicious and nutritious Vitasoy- the #1 soy milk brand in Hong Kong, China, Australia, and New Zealand. Know more about Vitasoy and its exciting flavors after the jump!

Feature: Vitasoy- The Soy Experts

Feature: Le Petite Soufflé x Yardstick Coffee

     French-Japanese bistro Le Petit Soufflé teamed up with Yardstick Coffee to introduce three new pairings composed of their respective expertise: pastry and coffee. The tie-up coincided with the launch of Workshop, the bespoke patisserie within Le Petit Soufflé Megamall. 

     I was drooling while writing this post, makes me wanna teleport to SM Megamall to have a taste of the pairings. I'm going to try them all and will update you on my Instagram account. Here are the pairings that you must try on your next visit at Le Petit Soufflé.

Feature: Le Petite Soufflé x Yardstick Coffee

Product Review: Ultra Green Coffee

     Losing and maintaining weight is only a cup of coffee away. Well, that's what Ultra Green Coffee has known for aside from the fact that it has other health and wellness benefits. Cheskas Online Store sent me three pouches of Ultra Green Coffee to try and after taking this for roughly a month, I'm sharing my thoughts below.

     Why I accepted this even though I have a normal weight? Well, it's because I want to maintain that weight and stay away from instant coffees sold in the market. I also want to complement my diet and exercise with a natural supplement like this slimming coffee because I have the tendency to gain weight easily and I have a sweet tooth. So without further ado, here's my take on Ultra Green Coffee :)

Product Review: Ultra Green Coffee

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s New Mexican Chocolate Beverages

     It's here, it's here! Say “¡Hóla!” to a whole new chocolate experience as The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf pours you the sweet side of Mexico with a new selection of Mexican Chocolate beverages. 

     I'm a chocolate lover and this newest flavor is calling my name. So last Saturday I gave in to temptation and treated myself a cup of my latest fave drink from CBTL. It's true that just when you think that you’ve tasted everything there is in chocolate, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf gives you something beyond the familiar comforting goodness that you’ve always loved from the classic treat.

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s New Mexican Chocolate Beverages

Product Review: Edmark Red Yeast Coffee

     I'm a self-confessed coffee lover. I love drinking coffee first thing in the morning and before bedtime. This habit of mine gives me the boost that I need every day. I feel energized after drinking a cup of my favorite coffee but I hate the stomach pain and palpitations that come after drinking it.

     I'm also not sure how much sugar content there is with my favorite instant coffee that's why as much as possible I look for alternatives- those made from organic ingredients and natural sweetener. If the coffee has health benefits then it's promising for health conscious individual like me. In my last post, I've shared the products that were sent by Mr. Felix Dumaboc (trusted distributor of Edmark Philippines) for me to try. The first thing that caught my attention was the Red Yeast Coffee. It's an instant fave :) My thoughts on Edmark Philippines Red Yeast Coffee below.

Product Review: Edmark Red Yeast Coffee

Feature: Edmark Philippines

     I always tell you, my dear readers, that "health is wealth" and we must take good care of our family's health as early as possible. I have a dialysis patient father who neglected his health because he just doesn't care about his lifestyle before. He's diabetic for more than fifteen years and yet still living an unhealthy lifestyle that time. Fast-forward today, he is reaping what he sow. Five years on dialysis is so hard but manageable as long as you have the resources and patience.  But life must go on because dialysis is the only way to prolong his life aside from kidney transplant that in my opinion has more risk. 

     Anyhoo, I just want to share in this blog post the natural and alternative products that I'm currently taking. Take not that I'm not encouraging everyone to try this too because it's still important to consult your doctor before taking any kind of food supplement or alternative products especially if you're under medication. 

Feature: Edmark Philippines

Casa Italia for Authentic Gelato and Other Italian Favorites

     With so many restaurants opening in the market, one begins to wonder how one is able to choose. While some are driven by price, others opt for the more familiar or their “go-to cuisine”.

     And yet, there are those who just can’t sacrifice their longing for true, authentic dishes- such as those prepared daily by Casa Italia. Since they started in 2015, Casa Italia’s full-service restaurant has not held back in making sure their customers get what they pay for.

Casa Italia for Authentic Gelato and Other Italian Favorites
photo from Casa Italia's website

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf's Mondays Made Better Promo

     What makes a day "a good day?" There's a lot of things that will make the start of the day amazing and full of positive vibes as long as there's this so called boost of momentum like a morning jog, an energizing shower, or a good playlist can set good vibes that last throughout the day. 

     The same thing goes for the workweek. Give Monday a nudge in the right direction, and it dictates the tone for the rest of the week. With the return of Mondays Made Better promo, this is exactly what The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf seeks to do for the coming weeks ahead. Here are the things that you need to know :)

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf's Mondays Made Better Promo

A Piece of Italy with Casa Italia

     Gelatos, pasta, pizza, and more! A piece of Italy that's authentic and brought to use by Casa Italia! More than a year since introducing authentic Italian cuisine to the Filipino palate, Casa Italia continues to delight with its best-selling fares and awe with its new flavorful creations. 

     Never the one to stop churning out a menu with only the finest and freshest ingredients, Casa Italia takes the helm once again with their glorious array of dishes. Where to start? Scroll down below to see their menu :)

A Piece of Italy with Casa Italia

Product Review: Ishigaki Glutathione Coffee

     Yes, you've read that right :) The favorite glutathione brand now comes in delicious coffee. I received two boxes of Ishigaki Glutathione Coffee last December and as a self-confessed coffee lover, I immediately opened the box when it reached our doorsteps.

     Coffee lovers can now enjoy the benefits of skin whitening, anti-aging, and detoxification by drinking this product. I was skeptical for a few seconds before I empty my first sachet in a cup of hot water because I have no idea if this really tastes like coffee despite the added ingredients. To my surprise, I totally enjoyed my first cup of Ishigaki Glutathione Coffee. More details about the product and my thoughts after consuming 2 boxes (20 sachets) below :)

Product Review: Ishigaki Glutathione Coffee

Books and Borders Cafe Eastwood Now Open

     The coffee place where you can read your favorite book, sip your favorite drink, and savor hearty meals opened its third branch in the busy city of Eastwood. Formally opened its doors last November 26, 2016, Book & Borders promises great food, awesome drinks, and hours of fun reading.

     Book & Borders Cafe in Eastwood City promises to give residents, office workers, students, and shoppers a new venue to dine and unwind after a tiring day. The much needed "me time" is not only confined in spas and other known venues available for relaxation but also in a coffee shop that allows each guest to read a book while sipping their favorite drink and eat to their heart's content. Highlights of Book & Borders Cafe in Eastwood City opening below :)

Books and Borders Cafe Eastwood Now Open

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s Mondays Made Better

     Do you know the song "Manic Monday?" Monday should always start with positive vibes but for some, this is the day where some are still day dreaming of the past weekend. I have a friend who hates Monday because there is still a hang over from chill-party weekends.

     Did you know that Mondays are every successful individual's secret weapon? While the first day of the workweek may be a source of dread for some, others choose to see it as a fresh start, full of exciting possibilities. Seeking to inspire its customers to make Mondays better, the country's authority on premium coffee and tea, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, is celebrating some of today's most admired achievers by sharing snippets and stories of their success. Read more and be inspired after the jump!

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s Mondays Made Better

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Honey Apple Chai Tea Latte

     Hmm, apple pie in a glass... A sweet tooth like me will be so excited to try this newest drink offering from CBTL. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf's newest Tea Latte is like apple pie in a glass. Drinks like this are perfect for the coming holiday season.

     Cold, wet, and rainy are a few words to describe the weather at this time of the year. While this may be cumbersome to others, some may see it as the perfect opportunity to stay indoors and cozy up next to their loved ones. This is the reason the country's authority on premium coffee and tea, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, has introduced a new sweet and spiced beverage to warm the hearts and bellies of its customers, the Honey Apple Chai Tea Latte. See this oh-so-yummy beverage below :)

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Honey Apple Chai Tea Latte

Casa Italia After Dark Series

     The best way to end the day is to chill with best buds, loved ones, and friends over good food and drinks. I know a place where you can sit back and relax- Casa Italia! Happy hour is made more delicious and homey because of delicious authentic Italian fare.

     Fans of Casa Italia’s signature gelato are sure to love its After Dark series, a lineup of flavors spiked with liquor. Made with all-natural ingredients and infused with premium alcohol, it is a party in every scoop. See more of Casa Italia After Dark offerings below :)

Casa Italia After Dark Series

After dark drinks:

1. Ocean Dreams

• Cravings for piña colada are satisfied by this drink.
• Containing 4% alcohol, this tropical sorbet captures seaside getaways lounging with a concoction of pineapple, coconut cream, and white and dark rum. 
• Tempting taste buds is Night Eire (6% alcohol), coffee gelato infused with Bailey’s Irish Cream. 

2. Berry Bite 

• This drink with (4% alcohol) is the perfect combination of juicy blackberries and red wine—a rich, velvety flavor that brings to mind luxurious wine vacations in Italy. 
• Those who prefer smooth white wine can toast to Tipsy Pink (5% alcohol), which partners the crisp drink with luscious strawberry. 

3. Beers

• Casa Italia’s cool vibe is complemented by its array of beer, always served cold and priced less compared to neighboring bars, giving more bang for one’s buck. 
• Cooling down with the crew can also be all-night parties, as the restaurant serves local beer on a buy-one, take-one promo from 7:00PM until the restaurant closes at 1:00 AM. Local craft beers are also available.

Casa Italia After Dark Series

     Celebrate festival of flavors by complementing Casa Italia’s spirited selection of treats like the new artisanal pizza variants, filled with prime ingredients that can’t be topped.

1. Exclusively available at the Bonifacio Global City branch are the Shrimp & Caviar Pizza, topped with shrimp, caviar, and arugula, and Smoked Salmon Pizza, which is piled with slices of smoked salmon.

Casa Italia After Dark Series

2. Meant for serious meat lovers is the Amante di Carne, which is served only at the SM North EDSA branch. A hearty mix of pepperoni, Italian sausage, ground beef, and ham, this pizza satisfies in every bite.

Casa Italia After Dark Series
Amante Di Carne

3. The Capricciosa Pizza has bell peppers, onions, mushroom, pepperoni, Italian sausage, bacon, ground beef, ham, and black olives served on a bed of creamy mozzarella cheese.

Casa Italia After Dark SeriesCapricciosa Pizza

     Whether you’re in the mood to celebrate or looking for a picker upper, take “happy hour” on a whole new level at Casa Italia, and savor great Italian food made from honest, fresh ingredients.

For more information on Casa Italia,

Like them on Facebook: CasaItaliaPH

Follow them on Instagram: @CasaItaliaPH

#ILoveCasaItaliaPH #BestGelatoEver #FreshestCoffee

Good Times!~

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Continues to Pour Happy Across the Archipelago

     Hello dearies! I have great news to all of you, especially the coffee lovers out there! The country’s authority in premium coffee and tea opens 6 new branches for 2016. The success of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf in a country known for having the nicest people in the world is no surprise. A relationship-driven beverage company, the brand continues to serve up smiles through their handcrafted and premium coffee and tea.

     The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf only serves the best to its customers. Their quality coffee is sourced from no less than the top 1% of specialty grade A Arabica beans while their quality tea leaves are hand-plucked using only the top two leaves and a bud of each plant. Each bean & tea leaf is selected and prepared with such care that it is no wonder customers always return for their favorite drinks. Among these favorites are the famous Chai Tea Latte and the brand's original creation: the Original Ice Blended drink. More stories about The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf below :)

 The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Continues to Pour Happy Across the Archipelago

     In the last 50 years, the brand has grown to up to 1,000 stores in 25 countries and has since made numerous milestones in the Philippines since it opened its first branch at Greenbelt 3 in 2003. Through the years they have launched the CBTL Single Serve Beverage System in 2010 and opened the brand's first restaurant concept, The 26th St. Bistro, and the first CBTL Coffee Bar in 2012. 

 The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Continues to Pour Happy Across the Archipelago
CBTL Single Serve Beverage System

     Continuing its growth, in the first 6 months of 2016, the The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has proudly opened six new branches, pouring happy in Circuit Lane and The Enterprise Center in Makati City, Robinsons Galleria in Cebu City, SM MOA Arena Annex (MAAX) in Pasay City, SM Southmall in Las Piñas, and U.P. Town Center in Quezon City. As of the month of July, the brand has renovated its stores at TriNoma Mall in Quezon City and Ortigas Park in Pasig City. 

 The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Continues to Pour Happy Across the Archipelago
CBTL's Ice Cream Ice Blended drinks

     No doubt, the brand's expansion may be attributed to the fact that relationships remain at the heart of everything The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf does as it partners with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and REAL Life Foundation through the Caring Cup Global Charity Program, the brand's Corporate Social Responsibility arm. 

 The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Continues to Pour Happy Across the Archipelago

     The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf also reaches out to its customers, through the Swirl Rewards Card program, the Giving Journal, and the Brew Your Best Year community, a home-grown initiative that was launched in 2014, making its local success reach beyond its quality coffee and tea.

For more information on  The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf® Philippines 

Like them on Facebook: The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf Philippines

Follow them on Twitter: @CBTLPH @BREWPH 

Follow them on Instagram: @CBTLPH @BREWPH

Subscribe to: brewyourbestyear.com

Good Times!~