The Purple Doll's Top 10 Picks for 2013
While we're already in on the 2nd week of January 2014, I feel like the new year has just started. I guess I have the holiday flu to blame for that as I spent the first few days of the month just lazing around, watching TV and waiting for my cough and colds to go away. And while my C and C are still here, let me go on in and share my top picks for 2013.
Unlike how I did my top picks posts for 2011 and 2012, I decided to change things up a little bit. As much as I want to go straight into gushing over the 10 amazing dishes I got to eat last year, I believe 2013 was more of a year of experiences for me. So if you can read through the whole of this post, I'd already like to say "thank you" in advance. :)
1. ARTICLE ON BREAKFAST MAGAZINE
When 2013 started, I was given the chance to write an article for Breakfast Magazine's Anniversary Issue. This may not be that big for others, but it started my year on a high note. I've always wanted to write for a magazine, so this ticked an entry off my checklist.
2. POP TALK GUESTING
Back in 2012, I got the opportunity to be a guest reviewer on POP Talk. I was very thankful then, but I thought that would be the first and last I'll see myself on TV. With some sorcery working in my favor, I was again given a chance to guest on the show. To be honest, I'm not super hayok for TV exposure. But I'm really, really thankful for the opportunity. Even if I'm as awkward as a tuod on camera, it feels good to know that some people believe in me. It reassured me that The Purple Doll is on the right track.
3. SCORED A SAMSUNG GALAXY MEGA 6.3!
Never in my wildest dreams have I thought of getting a smartphone (phablet) through blogging. It may be possible for super famous, crème de la crème bloggers, but definitely a big NO for me. However, come July 2013, I was blessed to have been included in Samsung's #GalaxyMega campaign where I was given a brand new Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3. Up until now, this phone is something I deem special. My baby, in fact. I may not be someone who needs to update my gadgets, but I'm very very thankful for this!
4. A YEAR OF MANY FIRSTS
2013 was definitely a year of many firsts for me! To start off, I was finally able to try Anti-Gravity Yoga. I haven't blogged about it yet, but my first session definitely left me screaming, "What have I got myself into?" I'm not necessarily afraid of heights, but I'm afraid of "not having anything touch my feet" which is exactly what AG Yoga is all about! But it was a great experience. If only it weren't expensive, I'd love to take more classes.
I also had my first ever Brazilian wax courtesy of Pink Parlour in SM North EDSA. I went in a little anxious, but I survived! And nope, it wasn't that painful too!
Marking the end of my September (Would you believe all these happened on the same month?) was an important trip to the dentist. If you haven't guessed it yet, I had 2 of my wisdom teeth surgically removed. It might sound painful (Well, it was!) but it did give me a week of rest, and forced soft dieting. Will have to go through that again soon though.
5. STAYCATION IN F1 HOTEL
Just a week after my wisdom teeth surgery, I was given a chance to relax in F1 Hotel through our dear friend Spanky. It was a little tough to eat all solids, but I definitely enjoyed our staycation. So stay tuned everyone, I'll be blogging all about it very soon!
6. HAIR MAKEOVER AT CREATIONS SALON
Through my friend Janese, I finally got to have a hair makeover which I badly needed! Believe it or not, I've been dyeing my hair for about 4 years now just by DIY-ing. This was the first time I had my hair colored in a salon! I'll keep myself from spilling too much for now, but a post about my whole experience will be up within the month. *wink*
7. EATS 2014: ALL-DAY BREAKFAST
I can't believe that in the same year, I'll get to write for a food trip guide book! *squeals*. I've contributed 12 articles for EATS 2014 by Hinge Inquirer Publications under the All-Day Breakfast category, and I can't wait to share with you more about it soon!
8. BACK-TO-BACK STAYCATION IN ALABANG
One of the nicest, most down-to-earth and awesomest bloggers I know, Mommy Jane of Sugar, Spice & Everything Nice contacted me to be one of her 12 Angels of Christmas. I thought I'll just have to write a guest post on her super fun blog. Little did I know that I was in for a surprise! She actually became my Angel of Christmas instead!
A lauriat dinner at Phoenix Court with some of the country's most amazing bloggers, a loot bag loaded with yummy goodies, and even an overnight stay at a Tower Grand Deluxe in Bellevue Manila... Bongga diba? She even had me extend my stay in the south with another overnight accommodation at Vivere Hotel!!!! ヽ(^o^)ノ Again, thank you so much Mommy Jane for the generosity! Ikaw na talaga ang ninang namin sa kasal!
9. OLD FRIENDS AND NEW FRIENDS
While #1 to #8 were undeniably cool, the awesomest on this list would be #9 -- the people around me for the year 2013. I was fortunate enough to have shared a lot of meals and kwentuhan sessions with my old friends. And as if my luck never runs out, I even gained more new friends! Of course, I'll forever be thankful to my family, and to you too my dear reader. If not for you, my 2013 wouldn't have been this wonderful! So whether you're a regular reader, an occasional visitor or even a silent lurker, let me take this opportunity to extend you a big THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart!
10. GOOD FOOD
Last on the list, is of course dedicated to all the good food I got to eat for 2013. I may have only put out 140+ blog posts in contrast to 2012's whopping 206 posts. But among this 140+ and a few more in my backlog, I've enjoyed every single one of them (either because of the food or company). And as much as I don't want to bore you to death, I can't stand the idea of not posting my top 10 for the year that was. So before you close the browser, here's The Purple Doll's Top 10 Picks for 2013 in no particular order.
Spectrum at Fairmont Makati
Spectrum may not offer a super extensive selection on the smorgasbord. But believe me, every single dish on the buffet spread is nothing short of excellent! From the appetizers, to the mains, to the desserts (Yes, especially the desserts!), everything's amazing! Until now, I still dream of their Mascarpone with Pistachio and Honey.
Breakfast at Antonio's
I may haven't blogged about Breakfast at Antonio's yet, but it definitely won't escape my list of favorites for 2013. Apart from the refreshing Tagaytay setting, the one which captured my heart was their heavenly Pastrami and Swiss Cheese Roesti. It was the first time I had roesti, and I fell madly in love! Love at first bite, as some would call it.
Big Daddy Jay's All-American BBQ
While I like ribs, I wasn't really a big fan, not until I came across Big Daddy Jay's All-American Ribs. Seriously, this is the best ribs I've ever had! My beau approves of it as well! Other rib joints may have great-tasting ribs, but this doesn't just win because of flavor. Add fat (which means more flavor), portion size and price to its credentials too!
Gavino's Japanese Donuts
If there's a donut I can eat everyday and suffer the consequences from, it would no doubt be Gavino's Japanese Donuts. Among all the donuts I've tried, this is so far, and hands down, the best there is for me. Their Pon de Rings and Pon de Balls have the level of uncloying sweetness perfect for my palate. But the deal breaker was definitely their uber soft and chewy texture. Even my sis swears by it! She can finish a dozen all by herself!
Brotzeit German Bier Bar & Restaurant
I've never been really exposed to German fare, so I was surprised when I found myself loving Brotzeit German Bier Bar & Restaurant. (It targets the beau more than me.) After trying out their Lunch Specials and Bavarian Tea Time items, the beau and I have been back several times. And guess what? Every visit, we're loving the resto even more! At the moment, our favorites are their Sausage Platter and Cheese Spatzle.
Silk Road Thai Bistro
I've been growing a love affair with Thai cuisine, and Silk Road sealed the deal for me. Their Thai Ravioli was just so heavenly that it never fails to get me salivating just by the mere mention of it! (Yes, I'm drooling now!) Of course, their mains are also notable, especially the trio of Chicken Basil, Lamb Shank Massaman and Siamese Pork Ribs.
YummySoy
Another dessert I can eat everyday, and without the guilt, is YummySoy from Singapore. Ever since I got to taste their chilled beancurd, I've been back for more than I can count! You can even ask the beau. Every time we're in BGC, I make it a point to stop by and have me some chilled beancurd. My favorite? Definitely the classic, their Original flavor!
Bellini's Italian Restaurant
Call me a late bloomer, but it wasn't until last month that I finally got to try the 14-year old Bellini's Italian Restaurant. And you know what? I loved it! The serving time can use some improvement, but I totally adore the eccentric kitschy ambiance, and of course, the food. We loved every pizza and pasta variant we had. Carb-loading at its finest!
Pi Breakfast and Pies
Breakfast food has been one of my most favorite kinds of food for 2013, and Pi Breakfast and Pies sure knows how to tickle mine and other breakfast food-lovers' taste buds! While I love everything I got to try from their menu, it was their Pi Platter which had me oohing and ahhing in sheer pleasure. Their pies are really good too!
Spiral at Sofitel Manila
Last but definitely not the least on my list is Sofitel Manila's New Spiral. If you've already seen my blog post, I bet you can attest that it's the longest restaurant review I've ever written! Just the number of photos can affirm it. Hello 87 photos of sheer awesomeness! I can't complain though as Spiral has 21 different ateliers. It has the widest selection of buffet spread I have ever seen, and dining here never fails to make me feel like a small kid in a sea of cool toys. My favorite atelier? Definitely L’Epicerie!
WHEW! There you have it, my top 10 picks both edible and non-edible, from 2013. I hope I didn't bore you with this super long post. Madami namang pictures eh! Haha! ヾ(⌒o⌒)ﾂ
To you, yes YOU, I hope 2013 has been great. If not, I'm sure 2014 will be a better year. What we did in the past can't be undone, but we are in control of our present and our future. So let's face this new year with hope, love and enthusiasm, and may we enjoy more blessings and more food trips this year.
HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM THE PURPLE DOLL!!! Ù©(^‿^)Û¶
Unlike how I did my top picks posts for 2011 and 2012, I decided to change things up a little bit. As much as I want to go straight into gushing over the 10 amazing dishes I got to eat last year, I believe 2013 was more of a year of experiences for me. So if you can read through the whole of this post, I'd already like to say "thank you" in advance. :)
1. ARTICLE ON BREAKFAST MAGAZINE
When 2013 started, I was given the chance to write an article for Breakfast Magazine's Anniversary Issue. This may not be that big for others, but it started my year on a high note. I've always wanted to write for a magazine, so this ticked an entry off my checklist.
2. POP TALK GUESTING
Back in 2012, I got the opportunity to be a guest reviewer on POP Talk. I was very thankful then, but I thought that would be the first and last I'll see myself on TV. With some sorcery working in my favor, I was again given a chance to guest on the show. To be honest, I'm not super hayok for TV exposure. But I'm really, really thankful for the opportunity. Even if I'm as awkward as a tuod on camera, it feels good to know that some people believe in me. It reassured me that The Purple Doll is on the right track.
3. SCORED A SAMSUNG GALAXY MEGA 6.3!
Never in my wildest dreams have I thought of getting a smartphone (phablet) through blogging. It may be possible for super famous, crème de la crème bloggers, but definitely a big NO for me. However, come July 2013, I was blessed to have been included in Samsung's #GalaxyMega campaign where I was given a brand new Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3. Up until now, this phone is something I deem special. My baby, in fact. I may not be someone who needs to update my gadgets, but I'm very very thankful for this!
4. A YEAR OF MANY FIRSTS
2013 was definitely a year of many firsts for me! To start off, I was finally able to try Anti-Gravity Yoga. I haven't blogged about it yet, but my first session definitely left me screaming, "What have I got myself into?" I'm not necessarily afraid of heights, but I'm afraid of "not having anything touch my feet" which is exactly what AG Yoga is all about! But it was a great experience. If only it weren't expensive, I'd love to take more classes.
I also had my first ever Brazilian wax courtesy of Pink Parlour in SM North EDSA. I went in a little anxious, but I survived! And nope, it wasn't that painful too!
Marking the end of my September (Would you believe all these happened on the same month?) was an important trip to the dentist. If you haven't guessed it yet, I had 2 of my wisdom teeth surgically removed. It might sound painful (Well, it was!) but it did give me a week of rest, and forced soft dieting. Will have to go through that again soon though.
5. STAYCATION IN F1 HOTEL
Just a week after my wisdom teeth surgery, I was given a chance to relax in F1 Hotel through our dear friend Spanky. It was a little tough to eat all solids, but I definitely enjoyed our staycation. So stay tuned everyone, I'll be blogging all about it very soon!
6. HAIR MAKEOVER AT CREATIONS SALON
Through my friend Janese, I finally got to have a hair makeover which I badly needed! Believe it or not, I've been dyeing my hair for about 4 years now just by DIY-ing. This was the first time I had my hair colored in a salon! I'll keep myself from spilling too much for now, but a post about my whole experience will be up within the month. *wink*
7. EATS 2014: ALL-DAY BREAKFAST
I can't believe that in the same year, I'll get to write for a food trip guide book! *squeals*. I've contributed 12 articles for EATS 2014 by Hinge Inquirer Publications under the All-Day Breakfast category, and I can't wait to share with you more about it soon!
8. BACK-TO-BACK STAYCATION IN ALABANG
One of the nicest, most down-to-earth and awesomest bloggers I know, Mommy Jane of Sugar, Spice & Everything Nice contacted me to be one of her 12 Angels of Christmas. I thought I'll just have to write a guest post on her super fun blog. Little did I know that I was in for a surprise! She actually became my Angel of Christmas instead!
A lauriat dinner at Phoenix Court with some of the country's most amazing bloggers, a loot bag loaded with yummy goodies, and even an overnight stay at a Tower Grand Deluxe in Bellevue Manila... Bongga diba? She even had me extend my stay in the south with another overnight accommodation at Vivere Hotel!!!! ヽ(^o^)ノ Again, thank you so much Mommy Jane for the generosity! Ikaw na talaga ang ninang namin sa kasal!
9. OLD FRIENDS AND NEW FRIENDS
While #1 to #8 were undeniably cool, the awesomest on this list would be #9 -- the people around me for the year 2013. I was fortunate enough to have shared a lot of meals and kwentuhan sessions with my old friends. And as if my luck never runs out, I even gained more new friends! Of course, I'll forever be thankful to my family, and to you too my dear reader. If not for you, my 2013 wouldn't have been this wonderful! So whether you're a regular reader, an occasional visitor or even a silent lurker, let me take this opportunity to extend you a big THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart!
10. GOOD FOOD
Spectrum at Fairmont Makati
Spectrum may not offer a super extensive selection on the smorgasbord. But believe me, every single dish on the buffet spread is nothing short of excellent! From the appetizers, to the mains, to the desserts (Yes, especially the desserts!), everything's amazing! Until now, I still dream of their Mascarpone with Pistachio and Honey.
Breakfast at Antonio's
I may haven't blogged about Breakfast at Antonio's yet, but it definitely won't escape my list of favorites for 2013. Apart from the refreshing Tagaytay setting, the one which captured my heart was their heavenly Pastrami and Swiss Cheese Roesti. It was the first time I had roesti, and I fell madly in love! Love at first bite, as some would call it.
Big Daddy Jay's All-American BBQ
While I like ribs, I wasn't really a big fan, not until I came across Big Daddy Jay's All-American Ribs. Seriously, this is the best ribs I've ever had! My beau approves of it as well! Other rib joints may have great-tasting ribs, but this doesn't just win because of flavor. Add fat (which means more flavor), portion size and price to its credentials too!
Gavino's Japanese Donuts
If there's a donut I can eat everyday and suffer the consequences from, it would no doubt be Gavino's Japanese Donuts. Among all the donuts I've tried, this is so far, and hands down, the best there is for me. Their Pon de Rings and Pon de Balls have the level of uncloying sweetness perfect for my palate. But the deal breaker was definitely their uber soft and chewy texture. Even my sis swears by it! She can finish a dozen all by herself!
Brotzeit German Bier Bar & Restaurant
I've never been really exposed to German fare, so I was surprised when I found myself loving Brotzeit German Bier Bar & Restaurant. (It targets the beau more than me.) After trying out their Lunch Specials and Bavarian Tea Time items, the beau and I have been back several times. And guess what? Every visit, we're loving the resto even more! At the moment, our favorites are their Sausage Platter and Cheese Spatzle.
Silk Road Thai Bistro
I've been growing a love affair with Thai cuisine, and Silk Road sealed the deal for me. Their Thai Ravioli was just so heavenly that it never fails to get me salivating just by the mere mention of it! (Yes, I'm drooling now!) Of course, their mains are also notable, especially the trio of Chicken Basil, Lamb Shank Massaman and Siamese Pork Ribs.
YummySoy
Another dessert I can eat everyday, and without the guilt, is YummySoy from Singapore. Ever since I got to taste their chilled beancurd, I've been back for more than I can count! You can even ask the beau. Every time we're in BGC, I make it a point to stop by and have me some chilled beancurd. My favorite? Definitely the classic, their Original flavor!
Bellini's Italian Restaurant
Call me a late bloomer, but it wasn't until last month that I finally got to try the 14-year old Bellini's Italian Restaurant. And you know what? I loved it! The serving time can use some improvement, but I totally adore the eccentric kitschy ambiance, and of course, the food. We loved every pizza and pasta variant we had. Carb-loading at its finest!
Pi Breakfast and Pies
Breakfast food has been one of my most favorite kinds of food for 2013, and Pi Breakfast and Pies sure knows how to tickle mine and other breakfast food-lovers' taste buds! While I love everything I got to try from their menu, it was their Pi Platter which had me oohing and ahhing in sheer pleasure. Their pies are really good too!
Spiral at Sofitel Manila
Last but definitely not the least on my list is Sofitel Manila's New Spiral. If you've already seen my blog post, I bet you can attest that it's the longest restaurant review I've ever written! Just the number of photos can affirm it. Hello 87 photos of sheer awesomeness! I can't complain though as Spiral has 21 different ateliers. It has the widest selection of buffet spread I have ever seen, and dining here never fails to make me feel like a small kid in a sea of cool toys. My favorite atelier? Definitely L’Epicerie!
WHEW! There you have it, my top 10 picks both edible and non-edible, from 2013. I hope I didn't bore you with this super long post. Madami namang pictures eh! Haha! ヾ(⌒o⌒)ﾂ
To you, yes YOU, I hope 2013 has been great. If not, I'm sure 2014 will be a better year. What we did in the past can't be undone, but we are in control of our present and our future. So let's face this new year with hope, love and enthusiasm, and may we enjoy more blessings and more food trips this year.
HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM THE PURPLE DOLL!!! Ù©(^‿^)Û¶
ReplyDeleteHi Sumi!!! your blogging year has definitely been the bomb!! I hope you get to have more years like that to come!!! grabe breakfast at antonio's = love... definitely!!! one of my favs in Tagaytay!!! now where can i get that Eats 2014? I saw from mama bear that you and sir richie were contributors.. so that would mean articles there would be awesome...
Thank you, Jeng! I'm sure 2014 will be a great year for us, blogging and non-blogging-wise. :) Btw, EATS 2014 is available in National Bookstore. I'm not sure if it's in all branches na, but NB Glorietta has been carrying it already since December 2013. :)
DeleteWow! I just cannot name one that's best because everything in the list is the best! Congratulations to all your achievements for 2013. I know that 2014 will be better. :)
ReplyDeleteTrue Roch! Kaya nga I didn't even dare put a ranking.. It would give me too much headache! Haha! Thank you! I'm sure 2014 will a great year for you too! ^^
DeleteWhat an awesome year for you and your blog, Sumi! Hoping for more surprises this year. Happy New Year! :)
ReplyDeleteYes, more surprises for us! Btw, it's been a while since I last saw you. Hope to eat with you again soon. Happy New Year, Michy! :)
Deletewow! congrats sis! more blessings for 2014!
ReplyDeletehttp://invisiblestilettos.blogspot.com/
Thanks sis! May you be showered with more blessings this 2014 too! ^^
DeleteWow baby girl what a fun & exciting year 2013 turned out for you. <3 You deserve nothing but the very best & I foresee much more exciting ganap for you this 2014 because you're a shining star & destined for greatness. Ganyan ang mga baby Go! ;) I love you & thank you for being so sweet & down-to-earth in spite of your status! \m/ And oh yes, ninang talaga ako, I will gate-crash kapag hindi ako part ng entourage hahaha! All the best baby girl, ALL THE BEST!! :-*
ReplyDeleteNaku naman, Mommy! Anong "status" ka dyan?! Ikaw kaya ang superstar! <3 I know I've been bombarding you with endless thank yous, but I'd like to thank you again and again! ^^ Thank you for everything, especially for being a 2nd mom to me~ <3 I love you too, Mommy Jane! And don't worry, no need to gatecrash! VVIP ka kaya! ;)
DeleteI am truly thankful for two things: 1. I got introduced to your blog in which I religiously read your posts and crave to every detail of food you show; 2. You are so generous in sharing your blessings and truly I can attest to that! (been winning your giveaways multiple times already, HAHA ;p ) I am hoping that you'll have a more prosperous year this 2014!
ReplyDeleteAww.. Thank you so much for the kind words, Jaws! I'm very thankful of you! If not for my readers, I don't think I'll still be blogging. ^^ Naku, quiet ka lang na nanalo ka na multiple times! Baka may magreklamo! Haha!
DeleteAnyway, I wish you and your family a more fruitful and more prosperous 2014! <3 Thank you for the unending support!
Congratulations on an awesome year for you! Super inspiring! :D
ReplyDeleteThanks Hana! Wishing you an awesome 2014! ^^
DeleteYou definitely had a good year Sumi. You were practically everywhere from TV to print to all the great restaurants and hotels.
ReplyDeleteNaku, di naman! I hope 2014 will be an even greater year for us! Cheers! ^^
Delete2013 was such a great year for you and your blog, Sumi! Congrats! Looking forward to more of The Purple Doll this year! :)
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Czjai! Wishing you, your family, and your blog all the success this 2014! <3
DeleteCongratulations! You've achieved a lot!! Cheers Purple Doll!!!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Ms. Joy! May 2014 be a great year for you too! ^^
DeleteWow! So many achievements! Congratulations! Of all the things you did, I would love to try out F1 hotel too. :)
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year Sumi!
ReplyDeleteMay you and your awesome blog continue to prosper. I will try Gavino soon!
PS
LOLing @ Super Hayok line
OMG sis! You definitely had an awesome 2013!!! :) Buti ka pa may magazine publications na..sana ako riiin. hihihihihi :D
ReplyDeleteWow Congrats for a very fulfilling year! Glad to be a small part of it. =D
ReplyDeleteCongrats for a fruitful 2013! Praying for more blessings, both blog and non-blog related, for 2014 and beyond. Happy New Year! :)
ReplyDeletewow super siksik naman... ikaw na bigatin! hehehe
ReplyDeleteThat AG yoga has been in my mind for 2 days.. I want to really try it. It's along Q. Ave, isn't? Anyway, I hope to have great opps just like you had. Hindi ka pa ba big? I mean, your blog is really one of the best that I know.
ReplyDeleteYour 2013 was a blast! You were so blessed with all those good stuff. I'm feeling a little envious haha! But you just inspired me to be better. Nice post!
ReplyDeleteSeems like you had an awesome new year! Hope your 2014 will be the same :D
ReplyDeleteYou really had a fantastic 2013! I'm sure a lot of things are still in store for you this 2014. Keep doing those that you find joy doing! Congrats Sumi! :D
ReplyDeleteoh wow! congratulations on your accomplishments sumi!! esp the magazine features <3 i pray that you get more of those this year, your posts are always well written you deserve to be in every food magazine here :)
ReplyDeleteyou truly are blessed with all these experience, sumi... kapag me free gadget, pasali naman... hahaha... galing mo... Yahweh bless.
ReplyDelete2013 is definitely a wonderful year for you! Cheers to a bountiful 2014! Happy New Year, Sumi!
ReplyDeleteCongrats for having a fruitful 2013- I like your top 10 picks.
ReplyDeleteKudos for a nice and blessed year, Sumi! Hope you have another good one this 2014 :)
ReplyDeleteYou had such a wonderful 2013! Happy New Year and More Blessings to Come!
ReplyDeletecongrats,i love reading your blog and making your lutong bahay!
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