Question: “I’m in my 20’s and I have never had a girlfriend/boyfriend in my life. I want one. Is there something wrong with me? Help!”
Answer: What a loaded question. However, don’t fret. It’s a common one. I have a few friends that are in this situation and we discuss often. I decided I would write this to share to the world some of the things I’ve shared with my friends. This may also apply to those single/looking.
Before anything…No. There is nothing wrong with you. There may be, however, something up with what you are doing (or not doing.) Time to evaluate.
FIRST – Consider very carefully your reasons for wanting to be in a relationship right now. What’s nice about never having been in one is that, if you don’t know what you’re missing, it’s hard to miss it. This means you’re longing for the stuff you see on TV and in movies. I hate to break it to you, Hollywood is different from real life, after the credits roll, relationships are rollercoasters of emotion. So, don’t get into one just for the sake of it. Maybe you’re not in a relationship because you’re not ready. The pressures and commitments of a relationship will seriously take away from other things you have going on.
However you might say “okay Jules that’s great, I know already that but I REALLY WANT A BOYFRIEND or I REALLY WANT A GIRLFRIEND” then..
SECOND – Make changes. I’m serious. Make changes. Yes, to a degree, the right person will love you for you. However, you have to attract them first for them to “love you for you.”
Photo courtesy of Lifehack.org
Change #1 – Lifestyle
Make new friends. Meet new people. Try new things. Learn something new. Visit new places. The key word: New. The old way is clearly not working for you so why not change things up a little? You can’t wait around for your office mate/colleague/high school crush/college classmate to one day realize that they’ve fallen in love with you. Sometimes that happens, what if it doesn’t? New experiences, new people open doors that lead to lots of other things. However, never approach these experiences looking for “the one” in mind or you’ll completely miss the point.. not to mention you will reek of desperation.
As the cliche goes, love finds you. However, you can’t expect it to do so when you’re sitting at home doing nothing. My point is, make it easier for love to find you. Put yourself out there, expose yourself! At the very least, you’d make a lot of new friends, have fun memories and learn things about yourself.
Change #2 – Physical
I’m not saying plastic surgery or compromising the real you. No. I am an advocate of staying true to yourself. What I’m saying is, there is nothing wrong with enhancing your assets. When people look at you, what do you think they see? Would you date yourself? Do you think you are doing enough to enhance your good physical attributes? Perception is very important.
Let’s face it, people are visual. We see things we like, we pay attention. We judge things/people by the way they look. Yes it’s absolutely superficial and not the best or most positive habit but it’s reality. However, beautiful people come in all shapes and sizes, you are one of them. But we can’t see it when you are packaged inadequately.
For example, Guys – Wear pants that fit correctly. Stop wearing running shoes with your slacks or Khakis. Buy dress socks. Stop leaving your house looking like your mom dressed you. Wear deodorant and pick a nice cologne. Don’t eat like a slob. Be a gentleman. Don’t slouch. Exude confidence but don’t be cocky.
Risking getting stoned by feminists, here goes:
Girls – Inject feminine elements into your wardrobe or style. Wear flattering clothing that fits your body type. 
Wear a bit of makeup (mascara or blush). Learn to be assertive (never timid) yet remain delicate. Let your hair down once in a while. Accessorize. Wear cute shoes (sneakers don’t count.) Get a real bag, don’t wear a backpack(applies to both genders.) Smile more often. Be aware of your facial expressions sometimes you can look mataray without realizing it.
We are all self-conscious about something. If you have skin problems, see a dermatologist. If you have crooked teeth or if you’re conscious of your smile, consult a dentist. There’s nothing wrong with a little improvement and added confidence from addressing our insecurities. Invest in yourself so that others will invest in you too. This can benefit you romantically and professionally.
THIRD – Consult a friend. Consult a stranger or colleague or boss. Warning: this is a painful step, especially if you have a lot of pride. No one likes to hear about their flaws. But it’ll help you get perspective on what other people see in you. Are you perceived as the “nerdy, dorky guy who is always just a friend?” or are you the “girl next door, bestfriend ng lahat parang guy narin” type? Ask a variety of people so you can get an objective opinion. Never ask the question “what is wrong with me” but as the question “what can I do better?”
I hope this helps. Goodluck! Feel free to share your questions/experiences/feedback. Leave comments!
I’m friends with the extremely talented international designer, Amir Sali. Last year, he made KC Concepcion’s gown for the Star Magic Ball 2010. This year he was asked by Shaina Magdayao to design her ballgown for when she attends with John Lloyd. He made a gorgeous red gown studded with imported gems. Shaina looks fantastic!! I’m proud of you, Amir! Congratulations!!
Here is Amir Sali & the lovely Shaina Magdayao!
It’s kinda blurry, but here they are during the fitting.
Some photos from the Star Magic Ball 2011: (I’ll post more when I get them)
The House of Amir Sali
65 Connecticut St, Greenhills
726-06-09
www.facebook.com/HouseofAmirSali
On Friday, Dad and I went on Date Night at Mamou in the Fort. I’ve heard tons of rave reviews about this place, mainly comparing it to Peter Luger in New York, calling Mamou’s steaks top notch, etc. So naturally, we were excited. My dad and I are steak-lovers. We’ve been to Peter Luger and when I lived in New York I got to try the famous Steakhouses (Smith & Wollensky, Porterhouse, BLT Prime, Churrascaria, Michael Jordan’s, Posthouse). Mamou has a lot to live up to if you refer to it as “Peter Luger of Manila.”
I’ll tell you right now, it’s a place to try but lower your expectations since the reviews are highly overrated. For me, Mamou is okay. I’m still confused as to why everyone says it’s amazing.
First, the place: ultra casual. A bit small for the crowds that go. Reservations recommended but they were able to accommodate us on a Friday Night. The noise levels can get high and because of the intimate size, it’s easy to eavesdrop on the tables next to you. Also, the floor is extremely slippery, almost greasy. (I don’t know why) I had to take every precaution not to slip.
We sat close to the Kitchen so it was quite busy all around us. Due to the space constraints, I don’t blame Mamou for having tables so close to the kitchen but they should really consider having the tables a bit further away because I felt like I was in the kitchen with so many waiters running around me. I had to contend with the frenetic waiter and kitchen noise on top of the dining patron noise.
Complimentary bread: good.
Mamou Mami P260 – La Paz Batchoy + Hongkong Noodles – Good to share or a meal for one. Very flavorful soup, generous on the toppings, noodles. A bit greasy as La Paz Batchoy tends to be.
Cracked Cheese with Fuet and Honey P295 – Grana Padano Cheese and Salami with Honey Dip – Interesting combination! I’ve never tried dipping cheese or salami in honey and it was good. We liked this. But I have to say, the portion, in contrast to the Mami was quite small. For the price.. I don’t think it’s worth it.
Dry Aged USDA Prime Bone-in Ribeye Steak 600gms/21 oz P2,800 – Big enough for two but if you need a bigger portion, they have that as well. This is why they call it “Peter Luger” style because the steaks are to share. We asked it be cooked medium. The first time it was served, it was quite rare. We had to send it back.
For those that may not be familiar, the Ribeye is the fattiest cut of meat. It has the most amount of marbling. The white fat streaks that run through the meat is the marbling. This case was no exception. Obviously, when the meat is cooked, it causes the fat to melt producing all that oil for the greasy steak that Mamou is known for. They don’t kid around, the steak is extremely thick and very juicy(or oily.) You’re right, it’s not healthy at all. Make sure to take your Xenical.
Taste – It was dry-aged so you could really smell and taste the beefiness and meatiness of the meat. In Tagalog I think the best way to describe it is “malansa” and some people like their steak like this, I’m not too much a fan of it. It’s not a complicated dish, they sprinkle it with salt and serve. They give you additional rock salt so you can season to your liking. It was better with more rock salt to break that beefy taste.
Sides – Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate that a good steakhouse will pride itself on its steaks and its sides. I like places that make every effort to ensure that the side dishes are as stellar as its steaks. I HATE it when steakhouses serve sides that are unimaginative and are just there for the sake of having sides. So in Mamou’s case, their sides were kind of… just there. A few varieties of rice, beans, corn pudding, mashed potatoes.. forgettable. Granted the sides are supposed to complement the steak and not overshadow it, Mamou’s sides did nothing to enhance my meal. We ordered the Corn Pudding (creamed corn) and the mashed potatoes. Both didn’t taste like anything and portions were extremely small. I don’t know why they wouldn’t give you a bigger portion, it’s just potatoes and corn. They’re not that expensive. I didn’t even bother to photograph.
Key Lime – This was yummy. Loved the tangy flavor. It’s not a very large portion but that’s okay, it’s good to share. I took it on by myself, oh boy. It was indulgent for sure.
Price – As expected for a steakhouse. We paid over P1,500 per person. However, for the atmosphere and food quality, hardly seemed worth it.
Service – friendly and attentive. Everything we asked, we got right away. Possibly because we were strategically placed next to the kitchen.
Mamou
Serendra, Fort Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
(02) 856-3569
When I first heard the words “Bacon Chicharon,” I instantly thought, “clogged arteries on a plate.” My mind conjured up images of chicharon wrapped in bacon and deep fried for a delicious, heart-stopping snack. Over time, I heard more rave reviews from friends about this restaurant in the Fort that served this dangerous delight. I was intrigued but not enough to try it because.. come on. Bacon Chicharon? No thank you. I value my life.
However! Last night, a good friend and I decided to meet up for dinner at Seconds. I got there early so I found myself wandering around trying to find it. Turns out, it’s tucked away on the second floor (I wonder if that’s why it’s called Seconds) where Magnet used to be. Also it’s actually spelled 2nd’s. It’s almost like a mystery quest. You have to find the open glass panel (took me a while) which leads you up a nondescript stairwell, then follow the signs. I was blown away when I actually found it. I was expecting that it would be an ultra-casual, playful, loud, bright and festive place. I was not expecting it to be cozy, quiet, dim, casual but upscale. After I got over my confusion and shock, I was instantly in love. I felt like I was in someone’s library.
And the Menu! To my surprise, it turns out they have other things on their menu apart from Bacon Chicharon! Why had no one mentioned anything?? Had I known I would’ve come here sooner. It is actually COMFORT FOOD. I was amazed. A little bit of everything, Filipino, American, Salads, Pasta. I wanted to try everything on their menu.
We started off with the Bacon Chicharon(P285), of course. I was in for surprise #3. Apparently it is not really chicharon. It is simply crisp deep-fried battered bacon. I was disappointed. It was okay. To me, it was crispy bacon and nothing more. (Maybe because people had already raised my expectations extremely high or because their other dishes were more appealing to me.) The spiced vinegar and muscovado mustard dip was a nice touch but I didn’t really feel that it was anything special. Next time, I will try it with the buffalo sauce and blue cheese dip.
My Entree was Beef Rib Adobo (P495) with Roasted Garlic Rice instead of plain rice. Oh my goodness. This dish is WOW. The slow-roasted ribs were so tender, the meat was falling off the bone. The meat in itself was very tasty, you didn’t need a lot of the adobo sauce however it was there if you wanted it. The garlic flavor was very pleasant and not overpowering. Same with the rice, just the right flavor of garlic. For those that are wondering, yes, it has the hint of adobo but is not very traditional.
Roasted Garlic Rice
My friend had the Truffled Three-Cheese Mac with Chorizo (P420) – Three types of cheese, with a potato chip crust and the chorizo for added flavor. As if this weren’t good enough, they put truffle oil!!!! Honestly, it was like there was a party in my mouth. It was SO GOOD. I have to warn you though, you might have to share this with someone since it is quite rich but I will not judge you if you take this on yourself.
For dessert we had the Chocolate Lava Cake (P265) and the Apple Crumble (P215). These were both terrific. It’s hard to compare because it literally is like comparing night and day. It’s a matter of preference. However, my friend and I both agreed that, put side by side, the Lava Cake outshines the Apple Crumble.
The Lava Cake is great for the chocolate lovers. You can’t go wrong with this. The Chocolate cake is not too dense and not too sweet. The strawberry compote doesn’t take away from the chocolate heaven, it gives it a good, subtle citrus/tangy sweetness.
The Apple Crumble is for the apple pie lovers out there. The apples are crisp and the pie crumble part is yum. Loved the textures and tastes. I’m not super into cinnamon and you could definitely taste it in this dessert.
Overall, this is an instant fave. I’ll be taking my entire family to dine here. Will most definitely come back for Seconds, Thirds, Fourths, Fifths and so on. They might want to consider re-naming
2ND’S
Quadrant III (where Nike is, behind that, entrance is next to Agave Mexican Cantina)
9th Ave., Bonifacio High Street
(02) 846-5293
I have the best dad anyone can ask for. He turned 55 this past friday. He’s the perfect example of age being just a number because he does lots of groovy and hip things like wear yellow pants and dance like Michael Jackson in front of hundreds of people (but that’s a blog entry for a different day). You would never think he’s 50+.
This year our family had two reasons to celebrate – Dad’s Birthday and his 1-year anniversary of being smoke-free. While we usually throw a party on his birthday, this year was a quiet celebration at Aubergine, an upscale restaurant serving French contemporary fare.
When we arrived, there were TONS of security. Turned out P.Noy decided to join us for dinner. NO he wasn’t with any women. Haha. But, he smokes a lot, our President. He stepped out no less than 4 times for a cigarette break. I think he should take “quit smoking” tips from my Dad. Here is my brother checking out the parade of bodyguards as they pass back and forth.
Without the dozens of Presidential bodyguards loitering around the dining area, it is actually quite nice. Trendy, quiet, cozy and intimate. It’s not very spacious so when I say “intimate,” I really mean that you’re close enough to the next table to share their food and listen in on their conversation.
My lovely parents. Notice how close we are to the tables next to us.
Here is my brother, looking very presidential and formal.
Sibling photo. As the photographer, I rarely get to be in the picture, so I have to include this.
You have a clear view of the kitchen, which I liked, it was nice to gaze at the chefs at work.
They have an Ala-Carte Menu & a Degustation Menu (3 appetizers, entrees, cheese plate, dessert.) We all did Ala-Carte, my brother did the Degustation Menu. I shall make the distinction in the reviews. I apologize in advance for the photos, the lightning was far from ideal. Also, as we were there to celebrate more than to review, I didn’t take the time to sample all the dishes served and can’t speak to all of them.
They started us off with a complimentary amuse bouche of lentil panna cotta. Amuse bouche is a bite-sized hors d’œuvre. It was okay. It tasted like bean custard/jello.
They also serve you generous rounds of warm bread, butter and garlic hummus.
Starter (Dad’s) – Buffalo Mozzarella, sliced Parma Ham & Melon Salad – He said that this was quite delicious. Flavors were fresh and clean. Perfect for an appetizer.
Degustation Starter 1 – Foie Gras Terrine – My Brother has never had Foie Gras before so this was interesting to him. This was his favorite among all of his starters. Though he couldn’t quite describe it to me so I will just leave you a picture and let you visually judge it for yourself.
Degustation Starter 2 – Lobster Bisque with Mango Wonton – Very tasty, says my brother. Consistency not too creamy and not watery either. So, just right.
Degustation Starter 3 – Shortrib – Pardon the crude description but I quote my brother verbatim when he says that this tastes like “ribs in smoked hickory barbeque sauce.” He liked this a lot, mainly because he likes BBQ which is sweet and smokey. He said the meat was quite tender.
Dalandan Sorbet – Complimentary – served in a mini teapot with dry ice fog flowing out of its spout. Very yummy. I wish they give you an entire bowl of this. However it’s just meant to cleanse your palette. If you would like to order this for dessert, which my mom did, you can. P60/scoop.
Degustation Main – Lamb – brother devoured this before I could even ask. So I guess that means it’s delicious, if you are a lamb lover.
Ala-Carte – Aubergine Seafood Medley – Website Description: Chilean sea bass, Norwegian salmon, prawn, scallop, New Zealand green lip mussel and lobster tail, served with saffron potatoes and vegetables in bouillabaisse fizz. It’s quite a beautiful plate of food. Mom loved this. It had all different types of seafood with a nice side of salad to go with the richness of some of the flavors. She liked the scallop and shrimp the best.
Ala-Carte – Marriage of Beef & Fish – Description from the website: Grilled Chilean sea bass on spinach-snow pea ragout and oven roasted Australian Mulwarra beef tenderloin in Parma ham on sautéed French beans accompanied by walnut gnocchi, Madeira jus and sauce Dijon. If you can’t tell by this description, this marriage is quite a rich one. There was quite a lot going on here. The steak was quite tender and cooked perfectly. It had some sort of topping which I couldn’t identify very well. But it didn’t do much to add to the dish. I thought it would’ve been nice to have the steak without all of the bling-bling. The Seabass was real yummy though. I liked the sauce that it came with, while it was also rich, it wasn’t that overwhelming. The walnut gnocchi were a nice surprise. I liked the nutty flavor that they brought. While I’m glad I tried it, I would say it’s not an instant favorite.
Ala-Carte – Wagyu Steak – I asked my dad how it was and he said “Okay lang.” I’m not sure what this means. I mean he finished it and said it was good but he seemed a wee bit underwhelmed. I suppose that means our quest to find the best steak in Manila continues.
Degustation – Cheese Plate – For an extra P200, you can get a cheese plate with your degustation menu. My brother doesn’t like cheese but I do so I happily took this option. I love cheese. The stinky ones are the best. Aubergine selected some good ones here which I can’t remember the exact names. Both soft cheese – a brie and a bleu. However, not to sound like a cheese snob I was confused because there was no hard cheese. Cheese plates are usually are a showcase of different types (hard vs. soft, cow milk vs. goat milk vs. sheep milk) and textures (a hard parmesan vs. a crumbly bleu cheese). But all the same, I was happy with their selection.
Degustation Dessert – Chocolate with raspberry – “very decadent” says my brother.
Mango Trio – Okay this is NOT what it is officially called. But this is the dessert that I had and you can easily spot it on the menu. Mango Pannacotta, Mango Spring Roll & Green Mango Sorbet. Panna cotta – nothing spectacular. Mango Spring Roll, very rich and sweet. Rolled in cinammon with a cream cheese-mango filling. I was super full at this point so the cream-cheese was a bit much for me. Green Mango Sorbet = Winner.
Dad’s Complimentary Happy Birthday Dessert – Chocolate Pyramid – it’s a pyramid with chocolate inside. It looks a lot better than it tastes.
Other things to know:
Price – At least P2,000 per person – Appetizers are over P500 and Entrees typically over P1,500. Be prepared to spend especially if you will also indulge in wine.
Service – Spotty at best. They were friendly however not very attentive with clearing the table. Also, a lot of them need to work on their pronunciations. I’m not trying to be elitist, I promise. In any restaurant it doesn’t matter but when you’re paying over P2,000 for your meal it kinda ruins the ambiance when they say “SEHfood Meedley” and “Beep & Pish.” AND they do the thing which I abhor – memorize your order when you are dictating it. I hate when restaurants do this because almost always, they will forget something and/or mess up your order. Please, just write it down. I’m not impressed that you can memorize my food order.
Aubergine
www.aubergine.ph
32nd & 5th st. Bonifactio Global City (Above McDonald’s)
