Deli dining

Time was when we’d always be in a hurry to get to a string of business appointments, and only have a few minutes to grab a bite, hop into the car and go. We would stop by the Mandarin (hotel) Deli, sit down for a quick meal or snack or, alternatively, we would have the staff (always gracious) make us a sandwich, choosing the filling from an array of cold cuts, always garnished lavishly.

We have not done that in a long time, but a few days ago, we re-visited the Deli and yes, we had the same efficient service and a delicious, satisfying lunch. The Deli has been given a makeover, tables and chairs in black are arranged not too close to each other, lighting is perfect and of course, there is a serenity about the place, conducive to reading the newspaper that is immediately handed to you by staff. The center counter was filled with Christmas offerings in silver baskets and the massive display column right beside it is imposing.

They offer weekly specials aside from the usual salads and starters and main courses. Of the former we chose the mussels done three ways with bruschetta, with three different sauces – tomato in vinaigrette, white cream and mango bits. We also tried the white wine chicken with pancetta, subtly flavored, served with mashed potatoes and broccoli florets. They also have a cake of the week. 

The Deli is a treasure trove of cakes, pastries, sausages and a lot more, giving any foodie a definite high. For this Christmas season, gift-giving would have that special Mandarin touch, as one chooses from among gifts. Consider the following – blueberry cheesecake with fresh strawberries on top, carrot cake with walnuts, tea (distinct flavor but blending well) chocolate mousse with thin slabs of fine chocolate, hazelnut biscotti, pralines and macaroons (their latest offering in three flavors, packaged in 6’s and 12’s). The extensive selection of cheeses is very tempting. From P80, one can get any of their ready-to-eat snack/meal items – sausage rolls, pizza baguette, quiche, truffle.

It’s a never ending array at the Mandarin Deli. Visit and satisfy your taste in fine food in a delicious, quick, and efficient way.

Wanted: Consumer Protection. After we wrote about our disappointing experiences with a Chinese restaurant in West Gate, Filinvest, and a garment store at the Alabang Town Center (ATC), we got feedback from our regular readers, recounting similar incidents (indifference of store management, refusal to change defective items, etc.) with queries as to where they can raise their complaints. As mentioned in the past, we have forwarded similar incidents to the Department of Trade and Industry but got no response. We wonder what they are so busy with that such major consumer concerns are not attended to. Maybe some homemakers can organize themselves into a consumer rights group? We know of a few people who would be willing to be part of this. Let’s go into action, ladies (and gentlemen)!

A note from a reader named Girlee, following up on our column about Japanese dressing. She found a McCormick Japanese product labeled simply as “Dressing with the word sesame” at SM Megamall. This could be the same thing, or at least a good substitute. We noted that prices on SM Hypermart flyers now refer to kilo packs. We will check if this holds true in the stores.

Our friend Marlene of Soft and Chewey has decided to offer her Buttered Coco Crunchies and Lengua de Gato this season, the former at P150 for a tub of 15 pieces, the latter at the same price for 170 gms. Her other goodies, aside from the popular brownies, food for the gods and ensaymadas, are carrot loaf with cream cheese at P190, banana walnut at P100. She is based in Alabang Hills; call 840-7703.

Here is a simple recipe for cream dory, which you can get in packs of irregular cuts at South Supermarket in Filinvest, Alabang. In between slices, rub the fish with mayonnaise, top with onion rings and bacon bits. Cook in oven toaster for about 10 minutes. Serve immediately.

At a loss on what to do with fried fish that has become tough? Recycle and cook as sinigang. You’ll new dish at once.

Let’s look forward to a Blessed holiday.

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