Cloud 9 is a chocolate bar produced and sold in the Philippines. Marketed under the Jack 'n Jill brand, it is characterized by its structure of caramel, nougat, and peanuts coated in chocolate. Since its introduction in the late 1980s to early 1990s, it has been widely popular among both children and adults due to its affordability and sweetness. There are several varieties, and Cloud 9 is widely distributed in retail stores and supermarkets across the Philippines, as well as gaining popularity among Filipino communities and markets in Southeast Asia and abroad.
McDonald's is one of the world's largest fast food chains, originating in the United States. Its main offerings are American-style menu items such as hamburgers and French fries, while also providing unique products and services tailored to the food cultures and preferences of each country and region. With locations in over 100 countries including Japan, McDonald's has become a symbol of the fusion between globalization and local culture through its standardized services and localized menus.
Crack Pandesal is a type of Pandesal, a traditional bread widely enjoyed in the Philippines. Pandesal traces its origins back to the 16th century during the Spanish colonial period and has since become a staple breakfast bread deeply embedded in Filipino daily life. Crack Pandesal is characterized by its distinctive cracked surface, which gives it a unique appearance and texture compared to regular Pandesal. It is sold at several bakeries in Manila, including Robinsons Place Manila in the Malate district.
Wagyu sirloin, wagyu sushi, moyashi namul, and the smoky highball from Saburomaru Distillery are representative dishes and drinks of Japanese and Korean food culture, enjoying international popularity across regions and eras. These items are noted for providing culinary experiences that blend tradition with innovation. Wagyu sirloin and wagyu sushi are dishes made from carefully selected premium Japanese beef, while moyashi namul is a healthy side dish rooted in Korean cuisine. In addition, the smoky highball from Saburomaru Distillery is known as a drink that showcases the unique qualities of Japanese craft whisky. Such menu items are offered at specialty establishments like Wagyu Manila Malate in the Malate district of Manila, Philippines, playing a role in the globalization and exchange of food cultures.
BITES TIME! is a frozen dessert distributed in Asian regions including Manila, the capital of the Philippines. It is offered by Wall’s, the ice cream brand of the multinational company Unilever. Mainly sold as bite-sized ice cream treats, it features a composition of vanilla ice cream and caramel with roasted nuts, coated in milk chocolate. Variations tailored to local preferences and market needs are also available, making it a popular frozen treat enjoyed by many consumers for its convenience and accessibility.
Take-it is a wafer chocolate snack manufactured and sold by Goya, a Philippine food company. It is mainly offered in individually wrapped packs containing two sticks, featuring a crispy wafer covered in milk chocolate. Known for its packaging and shape similar to ""Kit Kat,"" Take-it is a popular and easily accessible snack widely available at convenience stores and supermarkets throughout the Philippines.
Pla-pla (Tilapia) is a dish widely enjoyed in Southeast Asia, especially in the Philippines, primarily using freshwater fish from the Tilapia genus. Originally native to Africa, tilapia began to be extensively farmed in the Philippines from the latter half of the 20th century, making its way onto household tables as well as being served in eateries and restaurants in various settings. The name ""pla-pla"" is used particularly in certain regions of the Philippines, and it has gained nationwide popularity as an affordable and nutritious fish dish. Cooking methods and seasonings vary by region, and thanks to its versatility and ease of use as an ingredient, pla-pla has become deeply rooted in the local food culture.
Tapsilog is a traditional Filipino breakfast dish consisting of tapa (cured beef), sinangag (garlic fried rice), and itlog (fried egg) served together on one plate. It is widely offered in eateries and restaurant chains across the Philippines and is enjoyed by people of all ages. Tapsilog gained popularity mainly in Manila during the 1970s and has since become a staple not only for breakfast but also as a regular item in 24-hour dining establishments. Many variations have emerged over time, making it a nationally beloved dish both in the Philippines and among Filipino communities abroad.
Pares Mami is a beef noodle dish originating from the Philippines, characterized by its rich beef broth, egg noodles, and often served together with rice as a traditional, popular meal. This article provides an overview of the features, history, food culture, and both domestic and international spread of the dish, with a focus on the version served at Jim's Pares & Mami located in Malate, Manila. As a representative urban street food, Pares Mami is widely enjoyed by locals as a daily meal and is also popular among tourists.
Mangosteen (scientific name: Garcinia mangostana) is a fruit native to Southeast Asia, grown primarily in tropical regions on evergreen trees. Inside its thick, deep purple rind lies pure white, tender flesh divided into segments, which is highly esteemed around the world for its distinctive sweet and tangy flavor and fragrant aroma, earning it the nickname ""queen of fruits."" The main producers are countries in Southeast Asia such as Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, with the Davao region in southern Philippines being especially notable as a leading domestic source. Mangosteen requires delicate handling from harvest to distribution, and due to its limited availability, it is often considered a luxury fruit outside of its growing regions.
