BE HEALTH-TEA WITH SIP MILK TEA

SIP's Green Tea Milk Tea with Coffee Jelly

Even with utmost preparation, it can be difficult to escape the infections and illnesses that come with unexpected rains and cold weather. To protect oneself, it’s necessary that one eat foods packed with vitamins and minerals. More so, we should learn to hydrate ourselves with fluids to flush out toxins in our bodies. 

Green Tea is known to have polyphenol antioxidants called catechins that help the immune system.  It’s such a good thing that there are tea shops around the metro that serve green tea in such a healthy way, not something that would give one some sugar coma. I’m glad I recently discovered SIP. 

SIP—with its tag line as having “the awesomest drink on earth”, it carries different varieties of tea such as green tea, black tea and fruit infusions. I won’t go much about tea varieties because it is a different topic in itself, but basically, they steep teas in their shops using revolutionary tea steeping contraptions, which utilize the same science as espresso machines.  The steeped teas are then mixed with water, milk, ice and other secret ingredient.  Most milk-and-tea potion comes with the sinkers, add-ons that give the drink some kind of texture, character and additional flavor to the drinks. SIP’s sinkers include sago pearls, egg pudding, jellies, nata, crystals and nata de coco. With SIP’s 16 toppings/sinkers to choose from, you’re sure to find something that goes well with your chosen tea.

 SIP is said to be perfect for those looking for milk tea fix that uses the natural sweetness of steeped milk teas. They use high-quality pekoe loose leaves which naturally sweeten the milk tea while reducing the sugar content in its own unique blend.  They do not use anything powdered at SIP plus they never brewed their teas, they only steep them—assuring their customers with a refreshing cup each time they visit any SIP branch. 

SIP Drinks in a cute takeout box.

To-die-for flavors are the classic selection of milk teas and handmade taro. They also have fruity drinks. For hardcore tea drinkers, savor the goodness of SIP’s Green Tea—it has the goodness of natural tea leaves in the beverages. One can smell the aroma of the leaves as the baristas make batches of teas inside the store. 

SIP’s Green Tea is a delightful herbal blend of green tea and milk. It is a special drink that truly awakens your senses. Not too sweet, not too bland, it actually tastes just right. Indeed, it has the freshness and quality in every cup.

Yes, there’s definitely a tea craze in the country nowadays which seemed to catapult tea shops as evidenced by the kilometric queues of people who would like to get a taste of SIP’s refreshing drinks. 

Curious on how SIP’ milk tea tastes like? Head over to their branches near you and taste the difference. SIP are located in the following areas: Robinsons Galleria, Farmers Plaza-Cubao, SM Sucat, SM Manila, Pearl Plaza, Plazuela Iloilo, Malate, E. Rodriguez Sr.

Security Blanket thanks Ms. Ginny Guanco, SIP, and Ms. Jo Bonsol. 

Disclaimer: I am not compensated for this post. Opinions expressed are 100% my own. 

BAJA MEXICAN CANTINA: WHERE ALL YOUR MEXICAN CRAVINGS SATISFIED

The facade of Baja Mexican Cantina at Greenbelt 3

Most of us have preconceived notions that Greenbelt 3 establishments are mostly made up of high-end or upscale fine dining but having recently discovered Baja Mexican Cantina among the rows of posh restaurants proved this false. Run by friends who believe in quality, good food + affordable comfort foods, Baja Mexican Cantina is an establishment that feature wonderful Mexican dining experience straight from the heart.

While I have admittedly snubbed Mexican cuisine before I was pleasantly surprised by my recent experience as I dined at Baja Mexican Cantina. The marinated and grilled pork chop was nice and charred. The U.S. beef were also quite yummy and the old plain salsa had a different twist as Baja’s roasted tomato salsa turned out to be a smoky winner!

With homey interiors that's sure to please guests.

 

Please yourself with the abundance of Mexican food. The choose your own filling concept was really helpful—it’s great for the picky eaters as you can have your say burrito or tacos just the way you like it. Burritos, fajitas, enchiladas, quesadillas, chimichangas, and hard and soft tacos are just some of the Mexican fare that awaits diners at Baja Mexican Cantina.

Huge tortilla sizes for sharing!

Beef Quesadillas with roasted tomatoes.

 

Those with big appetite can indulge in their special Grande meals—A choice of any the following (good for 2-3 persons per order): Super Grande Burrito—all of 12 inches soft tortilla with 1 kilo of chicken, Mexican beef, rice, beans, veggies, (tomatoes, onions, nacho chips, lettuce, refried beans, cilantro, Mexican rice and cheese) sour cream and guacamole; Grande Tortilla Caesar Salad—a whopping tortilla with add ons like chicken, beef or pulled pork; Chili Taco Salad—huge taco in cup shape with veggies, cheese and a dash of spice!

Chili fries with sour cream and guacamole.

Their own mad guacamole makes a huge difference.

Chili Taco Salad can be enjoyed by two to three persons.

 

The dishes are cooked and presented in a way that whets the appetite of even those unfamiliar with the sight and aroma of even the most intimidating ingredients of Mexican cuisine. The spice level is mild enough to be enjoyed by everyone. If you want the dish to be uber-spicy, there’s a hot sauce (exclusively made by Baja chefs) available—and gladly whip up a fiery dish on your own.

For the health conscious, fish tacos are your best bet.

Porkchop with mango salsa and rice.

 

You’d also be glad to know that there are French fries, ½ pound classic burger, nachos and queso fondido (melted cheese served with warm tortilla triangles) on the menu—these are the kind of stuff your kids will surely love. For the health conscious, there are crispy fish fillet tacos, grilled boneless chickens served with mango salsa and rice, and for the vegan, all-veggie tacos.

Super Grande Burrito tops my list.

My favorite Nachos and sour cream.

 

Expertly spiced, fully aromatic and incredibly filling and satisfying meals coupled with nice interiors and homey ambiance, it’s no surprise that Baja Mexican Cantina is a prime spot for dining in large groups at Greenbelt 3 and had its own loyal clientele since its opening in 2009.

Even their drinks such as Frozen Iced Tea are huge.

See this huge burrito filled with fillings.

Strawberry shake in natural fruit juice.

 

Diners are assured that each dish on Baja Mexican Cantina offers a delectable taste of authentic Mexican. It’s such a place where all your Mexican food cravings are satisfied.

Should you wish to experience the luxury of Mexican dining, visit Baja Mexican Cantina, located at the 3^rd Floor of Greenbelt 3, Ayala Mall, Ayala Center, Makati City. You could also order through delivery service at 87878. Call them at 903-6713 or 756-0127. Like them on Facebook: Baja Mexican Cantina and follow them on Twitter: @BajaGB3

Spicy Tortilla Soup seeps in the spice!

Security Blanket thanks Leira Pagaspas, Ms. Hershey, Ms. Cristina Garcia, and Baja Mexican Cantina.

Disclaimer: I am not compensated for this post. Opinions expressed are 100% my own.