Midnight Mercato vs. Banchetto

 

There’s nothing like a good food trip to end the hustle and bustle of the week. And there’s no other place more famous than Mercato and Banchetto in catering to the munching machine in you. The two food bazaars are equally famous for their wide array of food choices, perfect for a foodie.

If you plan on going to Banchetto, it’s best to bring a buddy who’s been there to show you to the best food stalls in the bazaar. Banchetto is home to Tapatouille, Hassan’s Kebab and Steaks, Uno Burger, Monster Burger, Monster Rice and many, many more. You might be overwhelmed with the crowd and the endless selection of isaw, pasta, burgers, cakes, delicacies from rural areas and what not. You’ll have to maneuver yourself through a sea of people but it’s all worth it for the food there is relatively cheap. At around 80-150 pesos you can indulge in a filling treat.

Midnight Mercato on the other hand, is the more upscale version of Banchetto primarily because of two reasons: 1) It is situated in Bonifacio Global City and 2) Food in Mercato is a bit more expensive compared to Banchetto. If you’re lucky, you’ll even spot a celebrity while dining (which is actually not uncommon in the area). The ambience in Mercato is more chill compared to the frenzied hype of Banchetto. However, Mercato offers less food stall choices compared to Banchetto given its smaller size. Mercato makes up for this through its more unique food selection. Aside from the usual sausage, isaw and burger stalls, Mercato is home to the infamous Krispy Kreme Burger, Mochiko, Gelato, Ha Yuan Fresh Lumpia, Manang’s Chicken and Chuck’s Gubberie Fish and Chips.

Each place offers a unique dining experience but you’re sure in for a treat wherever you decide to eat. Catch Midnight Mercato in 8th Avenue Corner 34th Street at BC from 10pm to 3am (Friday and Saturday). There’s a lot of confusion as to when and where Banchetto operates. They come and go to different places from Libis, Forum, SM Cubao, Meralco Ave and Megatent. You can check their schedule in their Facebook page here, and view their schedule for the month of February here.

 

Tablets vs. Netbooks

The launch of tablets not only posed a threat on the netbook market, but it also stirred up heated debates as to which is the better travel companion. For those on the hunt for a new portable computing device, take a second and view this breakdown of the critical differences between the two before you make your choice. Remember, satisfaction all depends on assessing your needs as a user.

Features. The netbook takes the form of a traditional laptop, only smaller (screen size varies from 7 to 12 inches). Designed for basic computing, net browsing, word processing, and other less complex functions than that of notebooks, these devices, usually running on Windows or Linux, are equipped with physical keyboards and a touchpad for navigation – hence, working on documents wouldn’t be a hassle for users. They have replaceable batteries that usually run for about 2 to 5 hours depending on the model.  On the downside, netbooks are significantly slower than regular laptops primarily due to their slow processors. Gaming or even multi-tasking isn’t something we could recommend. Tablets, on the other hand, are comparatively smaller and a lot lighter than netbooks though their screen sizes measure around the same range, for netbooks make use of a touch-screen interface rather than a physical keyboard. Their batteries run for about 9 to 10 hours  a day – significantly longer than that of netbooks. Having their own operating systems allows for great speed and a good browsing experience, not to mention, web pages are made to adapt to a tablet’s screen resolution. Some models do not support Flash, however. As there are limited applications available for a tablet, a lot would be for entertainment purposes, it is considered well suited for information consumption rather than information generation.

Pricing. Cost varies for both devices but tablets are usually more expensive than netbooks. As the trend leans towards tablets, it is expected that users would be shedding a bit more out of their pockets to grab a hold of such hot items.

Market. Though they have just been recently released in the global markets, tablets are undergoing quite rapid updates and new improved models are coming out here and there – though still limited as compared to netbooks. Most, if not all, computer system manufacturers offer netbooks. It is important to note, though, that netbook sales are decreasing reportedly. If tablets continue to threaten netbook markets, chances for the latter’s extinction are on a high.  If it so happens, there would be difficulty in getting netbook repairs, spare parts, and whatnot. Again, satisfaction all boils down to gauging your needs. Are you leaning towards information consumption or information generation?

Who Sang it Better II: Tyler Ward vs. Justin Robinett and Michael Henry

Ever since the  beginnings of its existence, YouTube has been bringing us covers of great songs. Some are misses, some are okay, but then there are a fortunate some who become superstars. They get discovered, and they develop extreme fan bases.

“Slow Dancing in A Burning Room” is one of John Mayer’s many hits.  It is a part of his third album Continuum, released in 2006. Unlike his singles such as “Dreaming with a Broken Heart” and “Half of My Heart”, “Slow Dancing in A Burning Room” had been quite the late bloomer in the music charts.

When athlete-turned-performer Tyler Ward covered this song and posted it on YouTube, it had made a huge impact. His rendition included his mom, herself also a trained musician, as accompaniment. Ward obviously took after his mom, very talented and passionate. You can see it in his acoustic performance of Mayer’s song – he made it his own and retained the fervent emotion of the original.

Fellow YouTube stars Justin Robinett and Michael Henry also made a cover of the John Mayer hit. Their covers on different pop songs have now become available for download on iTunes. From just plain hobby and passion, it had become an avenue for income and fame, after numerous viewers and followers on YouTube contributed to their success.

Both versions covers convey each singer’s passion and talent. But what sets Justin Robinett and Michael Henry apart from Tyler Ward (and maybe even John Mayer) is their chemistry as performers. They sing and blend together perfectly that all their songs are pleasing to the ears. “Slow Dancing in A Burning Room” then evolved from a sexy, soaring ballad to a creative, harmonious, piano-driven track.

Each of these renditions gave different takes to the song. As artists, they injected their personalities, and it showed. So what is your take on Justin Robinett and Michael Henry, and Tyler Ward’s cover? Who sang it better? Or is there still nothing like the original?

Listen to them here!
Tyler Ward
Justin Robinett & Michael Henry

SM vs. Ayala Malls

In a world of consumerism, malls have become our second home. It’s the place for shopping, dining, recreational activities and other events. And when it comes to malls, two big names come to mind: SM and Ayala. Throughout the years, they have been competing against each other and it’s time to set things straight. Let’s focus on our discussion on two popular malls in the Quezon Cityarea: SM North EDSA and TriNoma.

Parking Countless consumers must park and leave their vehicles and so, a systematic parking scheme is vital. Some people complain about TriNoma’s parking area because it seems like a maze. Just across the street, SM North EDSA, with an organized system and its newly-installed parking monitors, makes it easier for the driver to find a slot.

Layout Order is not only needed in parking, but in the layout of the mall as well. The circular floor plan in TriNoma makes it easier for mall goers to browse through the shops as opposed to SM’s disjointed arrangement (there are three distinct buildings: The Block, SM Annex and the Main Mall).

Stores Inside both malls, hundreds of shops can be found, including restaurants, fast food chains, grocery stores, department stores, clothing outlets, hardware and appliance stores, cinemas and much more. Surely, you’ll be able to find whatever it is you’re looking for. Of course, there are some shops that SM has that TriNoma does not, and vice versa. But generally, the two shopping centers meet their customers’ needs.

Attractions A key attraction of SM North EDSA would be the CyberZone, consisting of two floors of electronics and gadget shops that appeal to techies. For movie theaters, those in TriNoma are more comfortable and provide customers with better viewing experience. The 2-hectare park located on the topmost floor of TriNoma gives shoppers a unique dining experience. SM responded to this by building the Sky Garden where several restaurants and the Sky Dome are found.

People One’s initial perception would be that Ayala Malls are for the upper class while SM Malls are for the masses, or pang-masa. Not anymore though. With the MRT station directly connected to TriNoma, it allows access to people from all walks of life. The distinction between different classes in society is no longer that obvious.

With all these in mind, it becomes difficult to compare SM and Ayala. How about you? Where do you prefer to go?

Reference

Torralba, H. L. (2010, May 4). The Mall Comparison: SM vs. Ayala. Retrieved January 15, 2012, from http://www.thepoc.net/thepoc-features/metakritiko/metakritiko-features/6149-the-mall-comparison-sm-vs-ayala.html

Red vs. Nude Lipstick

The red and the nude lipstick are two classic extremes every woman should have in their purse – red lipstick is bold and bright, and when worn correctly can be a perfect mix of strength and sophistication. Just pile on the black mascara and put eyeliner and you’re good to go. On the other hand, the nude lip is usually paired with a smoky eye; sweet and understated, it provides a striking balance. It’s romantic while still very chic and edgy.

But which of these iconic looks is better? Let’s look at it one aspect at a time.

Application It’s harder to wear red because mistakes are more obvious – it can smudge, and there are few make up mistakes worse than having lipstick on your teeth. This can be avoided by using lip liner, blotting your lipstick, setting it with loose powder, and layering it. But for both looks, a good canvas is a must. Before either, make sure your lips are well-moisturized. Nude lipstick especially has a tendency to look chalky so this would help for smoother application.

Complexion Both colors are flattering, it just depends on finding the shade that works for you. If you’re fair, red with blue undertones are best (like MAC’s bestselling Russian Red), although corals can pop up really well too (think the classic Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Fire and Ice). Medium skin tones would look great with true red and pink berry shades (like Rouge Dior in Red Premiere or Chanel Rouge Allure in Audace). If you’re on the darker side, choose deep colors like burgundy (Lancome L’Absolu Rouge in Smoky Rouge).

The perfect nude is hard to come by too. You have to look for a shade that’s not going to wash out your complexion and make you look sickly. For nude lipsticks, fair women should choose ones with pink tints (like Smashbox’s Flawless or Korres #13 Natural Pink Guava Lipstick), those with medium skin tones would look great with peach undertones (try Guerlain Gardenia Rouge G Lipstick or NARS Little Darling), and those with dark skin can use bronze (like Bobbi Brown’s Cocoa). In all, the rule in choosing nude lipstick is to make sure that it’s within two shades of your natural lip color.

Impact This interesting study claims that there is a connection between red lips and perceived attractiveness, thus men spend more time looking at lips painted red than any other color. True enough, various surveys also show that men, despite claiming to like the “natural” look, like their women to wear a bold, confident red on occasion. (Although take heed – there will always be some men who will be intimidated with it!)

The nude lip comes off as less striking and more natural. Also being more low-maintenance, it is more suitable for everyday wear. It is sweet and polished, but when paired with strong eye make up, can easily transition from day to night.

But there’s no competition here, really, because both looks are so classic and versatile. It all depends on one’s mood! I personally love the bold lip trend because it’s so much easier – just put on lipstick and a pair of shades and you’re good to go! But what do you think? How about the men, which do you prefer?

Cheetos vs. Doritos

“CHEETOS FOR THE WIN!”

Here are some reasons why this statement is true for the majority (well, for me at least!):

The name says it all - Doritos isn’t just as cheesy compared to Cheetos. Aside from this fact, Cheetos has stayed with constant with the variety of flavors it offers (Jalapeno, Mighty Zinger, Flaming Hot, Wild White Cheddar). Doritos, on the other hand, came out with many flavors that have changed their name through time and demand (Taco, Fiery Habanero, Spicy Sweet Chili, Salsa Verde, Spicy Nacho).

Cheetos doesn’t need additional dips to taste delicious. Since chips are purchased as a convenient, easy-to-go snack, it might be a hassle to some to buy a dip as well. While Doritos can stand on its own, its more subtle taste would be usually preferred with something on the side.

On the other hand, this can be seen as an edge for Doritos since it promotes a creative and different way of eating chips by adding those dips (try cream cheese, salsa, and spinach dip!).

So what will you be munching on your next movie marathon? Vote and let us know!

BonChon Chicken vs. Chicken Charlie

With its mounting popularity, the double-frying technique which traces its roots from chicken joints in South Korea has set the chicken radar up and alarming as it proved true to its promise of delivering crackly, flavorful, extra-crispy chicken skin to the expectant taste buds of Filipinos. Today we pit “the best chicken in America”, BonChon Chicken and its local contender, Chicken Charlie—two restaurants who’ve had their customers going loco over their double-fried chicken. Let the face off begin!

Flavor Double-frying, employed by both restaurants, renders their chicken less greasy compared to the ones served by other fast food joints as the technique drains the chicken of its natural fat. Without making use of breading, the chicken skin stays paper-thin and crisp, yet flavorful. In offering both soy garlic and spicy flavors, their respective chicken recipes are quite similar in taste but have notable differences all the same. BonChon’s glazed chicken skin is quite tastier than that of Chicken Charlie’s but the latter proves to be crispier.  Quite noticeable though, is that the flavor only stays on the skin for BonChon while that of Chicken Charlie’s not only stays on the skin but seeps into the meat as well.

Price Though both reasonably priced, Chicken Charlie costs much less than BonChon. As compared by Sharlyne Ang in her article, it would cost around PHP 365 in ordering a combination of six wings and three drumsticks in BonChon, whereas four drumsticks and four wings would only cost PHP 288 in Chicken Charlie. Cheaper prices make Chicken Charlie appeal to a wider customer base. However, it is good to note that when it comes to size and parts, BonChon offers bigger cuts compared to its contender and a choice of chicken thigh, as Chicken Charlie only offers legs and wings.

Pricing as well as a list of their products could be found here, for BonChon, and here, for Chicken Charlie.

Accessibility BonChon is an international company, while Chicken Charlie is homegrown. That already says a lot in terms of accessibility. BonChon branches are strategically located over leading shopping malls as well as in other areas, while Chicken Charlie stalls are significantly fewer in number and require one’s familiarity in their situated areas in order for them to be located. Chicken Charlie can be found in Katipunan, N.S. Amoranto St. and Banawe St. in Quezon City, Little Baguio, San Juan, and Adriatico, Manila.

Suffice to say, both restaurants commendably executed the double-frying technique in their respective means, each delivering chicken goodness that’s worth your every centavo. But in a battle of the best double-fried chicken, only one can reign supreme. BonChon Chicken or Chicken Charlie? The choice is yours.

Who sang it Better: Kris Allen vs. Adele

Kris Allen rose to fame when he joined – and won – the 8th season of American Idol. His excellent renditions, such as the angsty “Heartless”, the moving “Ain’t No Sunshine”, and the stunning “Falling Slowly”, showed his definite musicality and knack for rearranging. His coronation song, “No Boundaries”, also charted immediately on the Billboard Top 20. It is undeniable that Kris Allen has the ability to melt hearts and captivate audiences with his soothing voice and his charming smile.

Adele had her first shot at fame came from her MySpace page when her friend posted some of her demo videos. It was her uniquely husky and soulful voice paired with her well-written songs which tug the heart strings that caught the world’s attention. She was signed to XL Recordings and her first album, “19”, immediately rocketed to number 1 in the UK charts and ranked 11 in the Billboard charts.

The equally talented singers performed their rendition of “To Make You Feel My Love.”, a song written and first performed by Bob Dylan in 1997. Both singers make the song even more beautiful by adding their own styles to the song. As when he sang it during Top 11 Grand Ol’ Opry Week, Kris Allen offered a sweet, dreamy feel to the song. His cover would be a perfect song for the first dance at a wedding. Just imagine yourself dancing with your husband or wife, allowing yourself to be immersed with the feeling of security and warmth his version brings.

Adele, on the other hand, gives the song a rougher, rawer edge. There’s longing and desperation, and it progresses to give a feeling of home – like the feeling you get when you have a shoulder to cry on, or when hugging someone close to you whom you haven’t seen in a while. In my opinion, Adele’s powerful, dimensional rendition hits more close to home and unearths more emotion.

Nonetheless, when you’re serenaded by either Kris Allen or Adele, you will surely feel their love.

You can listen to their Kris’s version here and Adele’s here.

Who do you think wins this round of Who Sang it Better?

Banapple vs. Mom & Tina’s

Banapple is very famous here in Metro Manila – and why not, when they serve a wide range of food (in large servings!) that would make you want to come back for more? While their entrees are excellent, they’re especially famous for their original cakes and desserts. Meanwhile, Mom & Tina’s Bakery Café, a quaint restuarant vested at C5, also offers the same variety of sweet indulgences. Another thing going for it is its ambience – Mom and Tina’s has a homey and comforting feel that could last many conversations.

Both establishments carry their respective versions of the banoffee pie – a treat made out of graham crust, bananas, cream, and toffee. But who serves the better one?

Banapple is first and foremost known for their banoffee pies. Why would the restaurant be named Banapple if their bestseller were made of oranges? Besides their enchanting apple pies, Banapple serves a delightful banoffee pie. The crust is not bland, tasteless, or dry. Every mouthful gives a generous amount of chopped bananas and caramel, and you could feel the crust crumbling delicately. The chocolate and icing aren’t too sweet – they’re just right.

Mom & Tina’s, on the other hand, is famous for their pastries like cupcakes and meringue. They are more known for their Toblerone Walnut Torte and Butter Cake, but they serve a formidable banoffee pie. The crust is a bit dry, and there is more icing than there are bananas. The caramel is wonderfully sweet, but not as luscious as that of Banapple. The biggest setback though would be it’s size – it’s so small, it hardly feels like an indulgence despite its sweetness.

Banapple and Mom & Tina’s banoffee pie are both tempting and delicious. You be the judge of every bite.

Banapple has branches in Katipunan Ave, Northeast Square at Northeast Greenhills, Ayala Triangle Gardens, and Il Terrazo at Tomas Morato. Mom & Tina’s Bakery Café is located along E.Rodriguez Ave, Libis and Regis Center, Katipunan.

Tumblr vs. 9GAG

With the spread of internet memes and the increasing popularity of entertainment websites and blogs, two sites has become the newest trends: Tumblr and 9GAG. Millions of users visit and log on to these websites every day, and people can’t help but compare the two.

The biggest and most important difference between the two is that Tumblr is a blogging platform, while 9GAG is a comedy website. It’s important to keep this in mind, amidst the many similarities between them. Both sites let you message other users, and comment on and like  the posts. Connections to Facebook and Twitter are possible on Tumblr and 9GAG, linking the websites and their content. (Although with 9GAG, you can also connect with Google+.) Both websites allow users to create accounts where personal posts and favorite posts from other users can be found. For Tumblr, an account is a must and so 9GAG becomes more accessible because one does not need an account to view the pictures and videos posted. Registering is necessary only if you want to vote, comment, and upload.

Tumblr allows you to post a variety of content: text, photos, quotes, videos, music and links about almost anything from love to tourist spots to current events. 9GAG mainly focuses on pictures and videos regarding memes and pop culture. They have similar content; one can even find the same exact pictures in both websites. However, 9GAG is more limited since a 9gagger has an upload quota of only two posts per day. Tumblr doesn’t have any limit; you can post as much as you want.

The dashboard on Tumblr’s home page is user-friendly since it seems never-ending – by scrolling down, it automatically loads the next posts. For 9GAG, there are only nine posts for every page (thus the name). You can use keyboard shortcuts such as the J and K keys for easy browsing of posts (“like a boss”, as they say), just like in Tumblr.

Customization is something you can only do on Tumblr for you can choose and even make your own themes. The user can personalize the appearance of his blog by changing the fonts, colors, and layout. You even have the option to make the blog private if you wish. The Follow function on Tumblr is one essential element of the site. It lets you follow other users and lets you be followed. Another thing that makes Tumblr distinct is its reblog function. With this, you can repost another person’s work on your blog and react to it. On the other hand, in 9GAG, there is a Fix feature that lets you edit a posted photo to make it funnier.

Tumblr and 9GAG are unique websites that offer their users entertainment and freedom of expression. Their various features meet the users’ needs and make blogging and surfing the net much more convenient and enjoyable. So what are you, a Tumblr user or 9gagger?