I recently had a solo dinner at La Cathedral Cafe to celebrate International Women’s Day. It was quite a trip to enjoy the sunset at the famed Walled City. The facade of the Manila Cathedral also provided the perfect background to a lovely dinner.
I had delicious chicken curry with rice and iced latte. I highly recommend reserving through their Facebook page to ensure slots during their coveted dinner hours.
I hope that you will get to try La Cathedral soon!
I get a number of messages from my female friends asking for tips on how to dine solo. I have been eating out on my own for ages since I am an only child, so I consider myself a pro at this.
Dining solo may be a feat for some, but for me, it is simply my way of life. If you are also a woman and find this intimidating, read on some of my tips on eating and drinking solo in our city:
Bring a book or listen to music/podcasts! It helps to keep your mind entertained while eating, drinking, and people watching.
Order your favorites! Indulge. Enjoy yourself.
Be confident. You can pay for your own meal and drinks. That is powerful.
Order coffee. It is a source of joy along with your dessert.
Mind your posture. It makes you feel better about yourself.
My suggestions are nothing new but I hope this helps! Solo dining is liberating and a lot of fun. Don’t forget to tip your server and exit the restaurant with a smile. You are worth treating so just go for it!
I visited Baluarte de San Diego last International Women’s Day as they had free entrance for all women. This is my favorite part of Intramuros so visiting it was a no brainer.
It looks otherworldly and surreal. I don’t feel like I’m at the city at all whenever I’m in the middle of this intriguing landscape.
I highly recommend this spot as it is a quiet part of Manila that’s perfect for solo adventures and quiet conversations if you have any companions. It is open everyday and charges a minimal fee for upkeep. Hope you can drop by soon!
Yesterday, I swung by Katha Kape for a latte after walking around Intramuros. The cozy interiors instantly picked me up, and I then ordered a latte.
Their latte was strong and flavorful. It was the perfect respite from the heat outside. Trust me, a hot latte can really work wonders to your mood during the summer heat.
I loved the vibe of this cafe and I’m always at Intramuros to walk around its heritage buildings. I’ll definitely be back!
Yesterday, I decided to do three of my usual relaxation rituals. I went to Fred’s Revolucion Escolta for some Boondocks Brewing dubbel. It’s my favorite dark beer, and it really is worth the trip to Manila. Not to mention that Escolta has an assortment of heritage architecture and history for those who want to add some culture to their day.
Then, I crocheted inside the Pasig River Ferry. It’s safe, clean, and efficient. There’s just something about river commuting that calms my mind.
I capped off my day with a sausage dinner at UP. It was a warm night, so I bought a scrunchie from a street vendor. I used it to tie my hair in a ponytail, and it freaked me out because it was my first time to do so in six years.
So if I can start river commuting and growing out my pixie, then I am indeed ready for big changes and better things to come. Bring it on, universe!
Yesterday, I was lucky enough to have dinner at the Bayleaf Hotel Intramuros. It has long been on my bucket list, and it certainly did not disappoint. The view was enough for me to feel satisfied, considering that I commuted there all the way from Ortigas.
I ordered a Cerveza Negra and the Bayleaf Burger. Both were delicious!
My solo dinner was a quiet time for me to be grateful for a productive February. I look forward to an even better month ahead!
Last Saturday, I went to Lacion General Merchandise right beside Rosario bridge in Pasig. You won’t miss it- it’s located on the corner unit of a pink complex. There are sacks and bags filled with yarns!
I freaked out and wanted to buy so many yarns. But I resolved to only buy one kilo. This store is famous among local knitters and crocheters. Just search “Rosario Pasig Yarns” and you will know what I mean.
The store spins their own yarn imported from Taiwan. You may mix variegated and solid colors, and each kilo retails for Php390.
They also sell machine-spun shawls made of the same yarns.
After searching through their bags and chatting with the owners, Kuya Miner and Ate Gladys, I finally selected five balls to consist one kilo.
They recommend a size 4-5mm hook for their yarn. I am currently knitting using one of my purchases with a pair of 4.5mm needles, and the weave is so soft.
I highly recommend this shop! It’s definitely worth visiting and the yarns are worth the commute. The owners are also kind and honest. Drop by soon!
I decided to shake things up a bit when it comes to my regular toasted naked longganisa at Breakfast Bin. I requested for talangka brown rice instead of my usual plain one. I knew it would be delicious, but I was unprepared for the way it amazed me.
It was the best longganisa meal I have ever had!
For dessert, I walked to next-door neighbor Papa Diddi’s for another unusual ice cream combo. This time, I chose cheese closed and tsokolate de Cagayan.
Again, I was unprepared for the deliciousness that ensued. The cheese chunks blended well with the strong tsokolate taste. It was a full-bodied ice cream experience I will definitely enjoy again.
I still have more flavors and combinations to explore in my upcoming visits!
If you feel that there is something missing in your life, or if you feel bored, eat something new! It is inexpensive, nourishing, and great for your soul. Post pictures and share your food trips so that more people will be inspired to enjoy eating new treats as well!
