323 – On Lactobacillus Libations: Triptych 58

The benefits of beverages containing good bacteria have been extensively written about. These drinks, based on either milk or yogurt, contain micro-organisms that contribute to better digestive health. Perhaps the most famous drink under this category is Yakult, which was first formulated in Japan in 1935. The discovery of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei sp. Shirota by microbiologist …

322 – On An “Express” Bicol Express

Once upon a time, the Philippines had an extensive railway system that connected several provinces – the Bicol Express line among them. This train line connected the capital Manila and the Bicol region at the southernmost section of the Luzon landmass. The line eventually contributed its name to a dish consisting of coconut milk, pork, …

321 – On The Kettle Experience

My first visit to the Kettle restaurant was back in 2016 at its now-defunct location at SM Aura Premier in Taguig. The visit served as my younger brother's 18th birthday celebration – with him, me, and my former partner in attendance. We had lunch at the joint and tried out several of its specialties, including …

320 – On A 2022 First Quarter Update, Part 3: Tweaks And Thoughts

To begin the last part of my first quarter update for 2022, here are some updates with regards to the blog. First, allow me to welcome the newest member of The Monching's Partners: Candy Keane of Sew Geek Mama! Candy is a woman of many hats – or wigs, so to speak. She has been …

319 – On A 2022 First Quarter Update, Part 2: Eats And Drinks

Let's proceed to everyone's favorite segment – the food. My younger brother and I had lunch at Manam Comfort Filipino during a late January errand run to a nearby mall. You may remember the joint as the place where I had my birthday lunch, which I tackled in a two-part post in November of last …