Putting the spice in Greenbelt 5

The Manila dining, dating, and dance scene has gotten more and more exciting lately, what with the addition of everything new and oh-so-now.

The new crown jewel of the CBD, rally or no rally, is Greenbelt 5.

Yes, this year went by too quickly.

One day you’re in, the next day Greenbelt 5 is in everyone’s mouth. Each new spot is a new adventure.

And speaking of culinary adventures, one of my favorite adventure mates is happy couple Arnold and Ruth Co.

I happen to be a lucky close neighbor of Ruth and Arnold, and when time permits, we have late-night talks over fresh food and hot tea.

Each time spent with the couple is a lesson in health and good eating — these people embody the term “the joy of eating.”And “the joy of eating” is exactly what they impart in each establishment they decide to embark on.

Whether it’s the yummy and hearty soup dishes, do-it-youself pizzas, and sizzling steaks at The Madison — with branches at TriNoma and now Greenbelt 5 — to their newly-opened Thai Patio, that is now putting the healthy and the hot in one enticing package, right at the center of the center of the Greenbelt 5 dining strip.That night, a dozen ribbon cuttters, double the number for choir members, and more than a hundred guests flocked to Greenbelt 5 as the new queen of casual Thai dining was unveiled, literally.

The VIP guests, who ranged from Mr. Pure Energy to Thai royalty, each had a golden roped tassle that, after a countdown of 10 to one in the Thai language, unveiled a lovely and intimate space where it’s spice and everything nice. With The King and I as the central theme, the royal guests were welcomed by a giant mechanical elephant, a heavenly symbol in Thai culture.

At night’s end, Thai Airways gave away a ticket to Bangkok, while guests were serenaded by the Gawad Kalinga Tatalon Performing Arts Choir and songs from Carla Martinez, Karylle, and Christian Bautista, as they Kissed in A Shadow while Getting to Know You. It is always important to be blessed by the gods and so, from the city’s top corprate brasses to heads of political clans to the city’s hip and happening — all were fully present — for all of them share with Ruth and Arnold that “joy of eating.” Whether it be an Oliver’s sandwich, a Zing smoothie, or even a Twilight-inspired Haagen Dazs sorbet, Arnold and Ruth always go the extra extra mile just to be able to deliver the best in gastronomic greatness.

To them it is more than just a business — it is a passion. This season is all about that — so while we enjoy the family time, the food trips and the fab gifts, let us go back to what it’s all about — passion.

A passion for life, living and loving.

Have a passionate and merry Christmas, guys and dolls.