Travel Food Tripping at: Din Tai Fung Dumpling House

Yes, my butt is back in Manila but I can't get over the good food I've tried during my Shanghai Trip!  Thanks to my dearest brother who accompanied me for lunch and dinner even during working hours!  I'm so lucky to have such caring brother like him!

Anyways, back to the food story, I've heard him talk about this posh, expensive Taiwan restaurant located at the Ritz Carlton Hotel!  I actually passed by this restaurant the night before but line outside was crazy long so I gave it a skip and noted "Next Time"!  I was a bit surprised when my brother texted me before lunch telling me to meet him Din Tai Fung .yes..my "Next Time" restaurant!  He advised me to be there early for reservations!  I got us a table at around 11:30am and my brother arrived at 11:45am, just in time as people were starting to line up around 12nn!!!

Oh before I talk about the food, the history of Din Tai Fung is quite fun to read! To shorten the long story, the founder is originally from China then he moved to Taiwan to sell oil then steamed dumplings, then the rest is history! :)  Xiao Long Bao by the way are steamed buns!

The Table Setting

The tea that I ordered

I have to pay for this! *lol*

I opted for Green Tea

 

The cute "standing" ginger strips

 to be mixed with soy sauce

Steamed Pork Dumplings

29.00rmb for 5 pcs (Php197.00/$4.60)

5 tiny Xiao Long Bao that was housed in a huge steamer!  I guess aside from them "galit-galit" (angry at each other), they were situated far from each other to prevent bumping into each other during steaming as there's soup inside these babies.  You can also order 10pcs for 58.00rmb (Php395.00/$9.20)

To show you the size of the Xiao Long Bao 

against the porcelein spoon used for soup.

I try to bit it as gently as I can

The wet part isn't my saliva ok? *laughs*

See how much soup inside the Xiao Long Bao?
So be careful not to splatter them all over your clothing

Next came Steamed Chicken Xiao Long Bao

29.00rmb for 5 pcs (Php197.00/$4.60)

Don't ask me, they all look pretty alike! I don't know how the servers can distinguish them!

Ok, this wasn't a lady-like bite!

The Pork XiaoLongBao tastes a bit stronger while the chicken is on the lighter side!  

Shrimp and Pork Wonton Soup

I actually forgot the price but its around 

49.00rmb (approx Php318.00/$7.60)

The shrimp wonton is wrapped perfectly!  

They're not damaged inside the soup and the shrimp is big!

I think there were around 3-4 pieces of these per order

The ambiance of the restaurant is worth visiting at least once if you're in Shanghai.  You can see the Chefs preparing your dishes in the see-through glass window.  I like how they maintain cleanliness!

Wall of fame!  You can see Taiwan and Hong Kong actors and actresses' portrait with their signatures!  Whoever drew this is super talented as I can quickly recognize them!

*ahem* The Philippine Actor and Actress!  *lol*  Thanks to my brother dear for the wonderful lunch enjoyed on a super rainy day!  My hair was oh so nice in the morning but due to the humidity it went from Nice to Crap!  *laughs*

Food at Din Tai Fung Dumpling house is not as flavorful as what we have down here in the Philippines!  But this is best for the health-conscious as the food are prepared as soon as you order them and are served fresh!  Different types of dumplings are served!  There will always be something for the meat lovers, seafood lovers or even vegetarians!  The prices are more expensive than regular Dumpling House but its worth to visit at least once for that super authentic Chinese dumplings!

I may have to add that the service is great!  The washroom is super clean and westernized!

Din Tai Fung Dumpling House

上海市卢湾区马当路183号

Tel no: (008621)6385-8378

You can also find this famous dumpling house in the following countries: China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, South Korea, Australia and USA.

Enjoy your  weekend food tripping!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

AMW Reports: GlamBox Airbrush Workshop

What do you get when you put in 30 ladies who are make-up enthusiasts, Beauty Bloggers and 2 Crazy instructions in ONE area?  A riot!  A good, prettifying riot!

When Valerie from GlamBox contacted me and Sophie to be the instructors for their first ever airbrush workshop called "Lights, Camera, Airbrush Workshop", I agreed right away!  Aside from my passion for teaching + make-up, it was such an honor to be part of a workshop!   

July 30, it was a rainy Saturday, the sky outside was gloomy but look at the area when we arrived!  Such a sunny day all of a sudden!

As if the area did not warm our hearts enough, GlamBox made sure to warm up our tummy before the workshop!  Sophie and I can't help but be the first to give these dishes a try!  I can still remember the exact reaction of Shobe Sophie with her first Siomai bite! :P

After yummy lunch, we've decided to do what we're supposed to do --- EAT ahem I mean TEACH!  We prepared the table with materials needed for the lesson!

Lovely Val welcome the lucky participants and introduced the 2 instructors for the afternoon!  I think I heard they are super fun, super gorgeous, super sexy, super smart + all the positive superlatives you can think of!  No violent reactions.  Those who disagree will be ejected out of their seat right this moment! :P

Sophie and I have decided to split the lesson in half.  I started the first half while lovely Sophie sat next to me to assist me and would give her thoughts on some issues or questions raised during the session.  I started the workshop  with skin care talk, brush cleansing techniques then discussed the basics of the Airbrush System.

The exciting part is here when I asked for a volunteer, thanks Ara for being such a wacky Model!  She told me right away that she wanted to hide her freckles!  I personally think she looks great with them but hey!  Since we're talking about make-up and coverage is very important, she's the perfect model for the day!

I corrected her freckles first PRIOR to airbrush foundation application.  Do not forget to fill in your brows with eyebrow gel that's a shade darker than the usual eyebrow shade you use, this will lighten up after foundation application!

Airbrush application, for starters can be really tedious, but once you get the hang of it, putting airbrush make-up on your own face will be a breeze!  You can ask one of the participants who swore on airbrush make-up!  She told me it cuts make-up time in half!  Or more!

A quick break after the first session!  Val hosted simple games as participants gamely raises their hands to answer simple, yet fun questions!

My lovely Shobe Sophie's turn!  She continued the discussion to take about Contouring/Highlighting, Blush Application and even Eyeshadow Application using the airbrush gun!  

She shared to the group how you can also use mineral pigments, mixed with water to create your own airbrush eyeshadow shades!  Keep in mind that the pigments should be fine! Even if I'm there as an instructor, I have to admit that I've learned so much too just by listening to her! :)

Ara's Left and Right Face

Left - Airbrushed

Right - Without Airbrush make-up

Thanks Ara for being a good sport!

Photo-op with the Beauty Bloggers who graced the event! 

A group shot of everyone!

Of course if there's a group shot, there will always be...
A Wacky Shot!

Instructors with GlamBox Beauties Valerie and Andrea!

Thank you GlamBox for entrusting us to share our make-up/skincare knowledge to the lovely ladies!  Thanks to the participants for taking part in sharing their love for beauty!  The beauty bloggers, who are already knowledgeable in beauty for taking the time to support us.

Special thanks Clarissa Martin and Keith Tiu for the photos, Monique Hilario of LayBare and Angel Macaranas of Depot Fashion.

Lastly, thanks to my partner-in-beauty crimes Sophie for being my "ka-holding hands" partner!  It was fun being your partner again and I'm looking forward for more!

These are just some of the wonderful happenings in my life that keeps me alive and happy!  I thank the Lord everyday for giving me the capability to teach and be taught!  

Let's all stay grateful and keep these positive energies! 
Happy Weekend!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy

Studio SnR and Majolica Majorca Gives: A Personal Make-Up Affair PART 2!

First of all, I want to thank everyone for joining Part 1 contest of Studio SnR x Majolica Majorca!  The winner is...

Madelyn Ebro

 (You will be contacted via email by Studio SnR)

Congratulations!  To the rest who joined or did not join because of the conflict of schedule, read on!

I was told by Sydney how happy they are with all your entries that's why they are giving away another free slot for 1 Lucky AMW Reader!  

Better news, the workshop was moved from weekday to a Saturday!  Please read instructions carefully!  Well, same easy-peasy instructions!

**photo from Studio SnR and Majolica Majorca

Mechanics:

1. Comment ONLY if you can make it to the September 3, 2011 workshop. 
2. Again, if you are SURE you can make it to the said workshop date, comment with your Name and Email address.
3. Answer this: "Why do you think you deserve this workshop c/o Majolica Majorca?" (sell yourself to us!)
   
4. Please keep in mind to post only 1 COMMENT per reader.  (Note: Comments do not appear right away as it needs to be approved by me.)
5. Like Studio SnR Workshops Page and add them as a friend . (Just because I am still very grateful of the support they give to AMW!)
6. Contest starts today ends August 27, 2011 (11:59pm).  Winner will be announced here and will be sent an email to confirm attendance.
7. One winner will be chosen by people from Studio SnR.  

Expect to bring home some goodies while you enjoy delicious food and great coffee from CBTL!

For more details, you can contact them via email studiosnr@nipponesthetic.com or call them at (632) 584-5988.

Again, goodluck!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy

AMW Reviews: Majolica Majorca Aurora Tear Liner

I love watching any cartoon characters breaking into a "teary-eyed" mode, there's the PowerPuff Girls....

And there's the Japanese cartoon which I find them to draw the best expressions when it comes to the eyes!

Then comes Majolica Majorca Aurora Tear Liner!  Can I get the expressive teary-looking eyes?

Majolica Majorca Aurora Tear Eyeliner says ---

An eyeliner that adds shimmer to the eyes with drops of Aurora pearls.  Fine hair pencil lets you glide with precision on eye lids or lashes.  The transparent gel base brings out the best in sparkle and keeps it in place.  Whether you batt your lashes, close or squint your eyes, it glitters all the time.

Available in 2 shades --- BL Awakening Tears and PK Morning Crystals.

AMW says ---

Pros

• Very cute packaging, easy to carry around.
• The brush is very fine and can give you a precise line.

• Can be applied on top of your eyeliner or eyeshadow and gives you a nice sparkle that's not overly done.
• Can be applied on the inner corner for that "teary/sparkly" look.
• Once you let the tear liner set, it stays at least 3-4 hours.  
• Doesn't irritate my eyes. The glitters aren't big.

Cons

• Not for everyone.  I know a lot who aren't into sparkles.
• If applied on lashes, may lose the curl as it weighs down lash hairs.
• Some of the sparkles may transfer to your lashes or under eye area which is ok if you like it, not ok if you aren't into "sparkly" look.
• A bit pricey (but still cheaper as compared to MAC Glitter Eyeliner).

Overall

This is not a necessity in every girls' kikay kits!  This is a special addition to people who likes to party or would like to create an "ooomph" o the eye area.  I find that using this makes my eyes look more wide awake.

Tips

• The blue version would be seen more while the pink one (which I have) is more subtle.
• If you are unsure about the glitters getting into the rest of your face, it is best to apply on the upper lash line first, let it set before you head out.
• For a more dramatic "sparkle", apply on the upper lashline, the inner corner of the eyes and lashes!  Best when you have smokey eye makeup.  Use a nude colored lipstick for that focus to the eyes.
• Can also apply this on your face.  Make sure you don't have sensitive skin.
• Apply first layer, let dry, then go on and apply 2nd layer.  Making sure the first layer is dry makes it easier to pile up the glitters. 
• Once your eyes get irritated, STOP usage immediately!

Will I repurchase?
No, one bottle is enough, this will last me a long long time!

To whom do I recommend this to?

Party people!  If you feel like your office look is almost the same as your "after-office look", this is the best way to create a party atmosphere with your makeup!  I like it that this is so small and easy to carry around and you can even apply on your cheeks for that nice sparkle as you dance the night away!

Where to purchase and how much?
At SM Department Stores Beauty Section or selected Watsons for Php595.00 (approx $14.16).

PK Morning Crystals applied on hand

  Gel like texture that dries up a couple of seconds after and the glitters stay.

My eyes with dark brown gel liner

 

Applied Aurora Tear Liner PK Morning Crystals 

on the inner corner and inner thirds of the lower lash line.

Applied 2 layers of Aurora Tear Liner on the upper lash line.

This will look even better with eyeshadow!

While the Aurora Tear Liner is still wet, gently spread it a bit

to create nice sparkle all over eyes or face!

 

Using this won't give me the cute cartoon eyes, but this can definitely give a nice "oomph" on a simple make-up!  I like using this applied just at the inner corner of my eyes because I like it simple that way! :)  To the rest?  Go ahead and sparkle all you want! :)

Will you use a glittery liner?
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Bulletin: The Beauty High Tea Series + A Promo For AMW Readers

Dear AMW Readers:

You must be confused with all the AMW Bulletin post about The Beauty High Tea Series between Studio SnR and various skincare/makeup brands.  I have to admit, I myself got a bit overwhelmed too, I want to join all the workshops!!  I emailed Studio SnR and asked for the list of schedule so everyone can take a look, check out which brand caught their interest and if the schedule works? GOOOOO!!!!

I am super giddy and honored when Studio SnR gave AMW Readers special rate just by typing a code!  I will tell you  more as we go on!

The Beauty High Tea Series Calendar

Learn Personal Skin+Makeup 

Studio SnR x Lancome

August 19, 2011 (Friday)

Time: 1:30-5:30pm

Price: Php4,000 

Promo Price: Php3,600

Studio SnR x Bobbi Brown

August 20, 2011 (Saturday)

Time: 1:30-5:30pm

Price: Php3,700

Promo Price: Php3,300

P.S. I will also be joining this workshop!

Studio SnR x Majolica Majorca

September 3, 2011 (Saturday)

Time: 9:00am-1:00pm

Price: Php3,500

Promo Price: Php3,000

Note: Due to popular demand, schedule moved from August 11 to September 3! I've hosted a contest for 1 AMW reader to win a slot, Studio SnR already picked one winner and will check if she's available on this day.  Sorry if there's sudden change of schedule.  Great news to the rest though, I will re-open this contest as I was told they loved all your answers so they are giving another slot for 1 AMW to join for FREE!  Eeeekk!

AMW Readers Automatically Gets the Promo Price!

Rules:

1. Like Studio SnR Workshops on Facebook.

2. Reserve online by clicking HERE.

3. Put in Coupon Code: Ask Me Whats Reader

Hurry! Slots are limited and I was told the products you will be taking home are worth it!
Thanks Sydney of Studio SnR for loving AMW readers as much as I do :)

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!
Stay informed!

(Note: Author is not affiliated with any of the above companies mentioned.  This post serves as information.)