How to Build a New York City Food Weekend Around Neighborhoods, Walking Routes, and Local Events.

Table of Contents

• Why Neighborhood Planning Works
• Choose Your Food Style Before Choosing Restaurants
• Build a Three-Day Route
• Match Meals With Activities
• Plan for Budget and Timing
• Use Seasonal Food Events
• Avoid Common Planning Mistakes
• Sample Weekend Framework
• Final Checklist Before the Trip

New York City rewards food travelers who plan by neighborhood rather than chasing a famous meal in every borough. A focused route makes room for unplanned bakeries, sidewalk snacks, coffee breaks, and the kind of local discoveries that rarely fit into a packed spreadsheet. For restaurant ideas that can help you begin narrowing down an area, Franki can be a useful starting point.

The goal is not to eat at the most places. It is to build a weekend that feels enjoyable between meals, with enough time to walk, browse, rest, and change plans when something appealing appears. One thoughtful reservation, a few flexible food stops, and a realistic map can create a better trip than an exhausting list of viral recommendations.

Photo credit: Sergey Guk on Pexels.

Why Neighborhood Planning Works

New York is large enough that a poorly planned itinerary can turn a weekend into a series of subway rides. When you choose one connected area for each day, you spend less time traveling and more time enjoying the city. A day in the Lower East Side, Chinatown, and the East Village can flow naturally. A day split between a brunch in Brooklyn, a late lunch in Midtown, and dinner in Queens often feels rushed.

Geography also makes spontaneous choices easier. If your planned lunch has a wait, you can look nearby rather than panic-searching across the city. A memorable food trip is not defined by how far you traveled for one plate. It is defined by the meals, atmosphere, and moments that fit together.

Choose Your Food Style Before Choosing Restaurants

Before making reservations, decide what kind of weekend you actually want. Select two or three priorities, then use them to filter your choices. Trying to cover every cuisine, dining format, and neighborhood usually leaves little room to enjoy any of them.

• Budget-friendly weekend: Plan one sit-down meal, then build around slices, dumplings, sandwiches, bakeries, food halls, and dessert.
• Date weekend: Pair a scenic walk or gallery visit with one relaxed, well-timed dinner reservation.
• Family trip: Choose flexible menus, early seating times, and attractions within a short walk.
• Food-focused visit: Give each day a theme, such as classic New York dishes, a specific regional cuisine, or market grazing.

Build a Three-Day Route

Give each day a different job.

Day one should be easy. Stay near your hotel, take a short neighborhood walk, and choose a low-pressure dinner that a delayed arrival will not ruin. Day two is the main food day, with your priority reservation plus a nearby market, museum, park, or cultural stop. Day three should remain lighter, leaving space for brunch, a final snack, and travel home.

Avoid scheduling several far-apart meals on the same day. Even if the map makes everything look close, station transfers, weather, lines, and tired feet can reshape the plan. Leave at least one open block every day for a detour, an unexpected queue, or simply a break.

Match Meals With Activities

The best dining plan works with the rest of the day rather than competing with it. Pair a museum visit with a calm lunch where you can sit for a while. Follow a long walking route with counter service or casual food. Book an early dinner before a theater, music, or another timed event. Treat market visits as opportunities for small plates and snacks instead of adding a full meal immediately afterward.

For waterfront outings, keep the meal flexible because wind, rain, crowds, and transit delays can affect timing. In every case, consider walking distance, reservation time, the group's energy level, and whether the meal is likely to be quick or leisurely.

Photo credit: Zeynep Merve on Pexels.

Plan for Budget and Timing

Divide your food budget into three buckets: planned meals, spontaneous stops, and drinks or dessert. The final total should also account for sales tax, gratuity, possible service charges, and transportation. Lunch can be a particularly smart way to try a more formal restaurant without committing to the cost and duration of a full dinner.

1. Set a daily food budget that includes more than restaurant bills.
2. Reserve one priority meal, then keep the rest of the schedule adaptable.
3. Hold back money for snacks, coffee, and a last-minute standout find.
4. Read menus before traveling across town, especially if you have dietary needs.
5. Confirm hours and reservation policies on the day you plan to visit.

Use Seasonal Food Events

Seasonal dining programs can give a short trip a useful structure without taking over every meal. For example, the Summer 2026 NYC Restaurant Week program ran from July 20 through August 16 and included more than 600 restaurants across all five boroughs. Future editions can be a practical way to compare neighborhoods, cuisines, meal types, and prix-fixe price points, but always check the current rules before booking.

Food festivals can also serve as a weekend anchor. The 2026 NYCWFF weekend in the Seaport is scheduled for October 15 through October 18, making Lower Manhattan a logical base for festival events, waterfront walks, and nearby dining. Review ticket details, event times, bag policies, and expected crowds before building other reservations around a festival.

Avoid Common Planning Mistakes

• Trying to visit too many boroughs in one day.
• Booking meals without checking door-to-door travel time.
• Choosing every restaurant only because it appears in a ranking or social post.
• Confusing a quick counter-service stop with a long tasting-menu experience.
• Leaving no allowance for weather, transit disruptions, or lines.
• Planning a heavy meal before several hours of walking.
• Assuming menus and hours stay the same every day.

Sample Weekend Framework

On Friday evening, stay close to the hotel for dinner and take a short walk afterward. On Saturday morning, visit a bakery district, market, or cultural attraction. Keep lunch flexible, then enjoy your main reservation in the evening. On Sunday, choose coffee, brunch, or a light meal near a park or museum, and leave enough time for one final food stop before departure.

Photo credit: Stephanie Hurbe on Pexels.

Final Checklist Before the Trip

• Confirm restaurant hours, menus, and cancellation policies.
• Make sure the menu works for everyone in the group.
• Review walking and transit times between meals and activities.
• Save one backup option in every planned neighborhood.
• Check event dates, ticket requirements, and weather.
• Wear comfortable shoes and leave one meal open for spontaneity.

A strong New York City food weekend does not require a packed schedule. Focus on connected neighborhoods, make one or two reservations that genuinely matter to you, set a realistic budget, and allow time to wander. The best meal of the trip may be the one you never planned.

From Malls To Museums: 5 Reasons To Visit Manila.

When traveling to The Philippines, don’t skip a trip to the country’s capital. Manila isn’t just any other city - it features a fascinating mix of old and new and has many different areas each with their unique attractions. Below are just a handful of different reasons to make a visit to Manila.

Photo credit: Kimy Moto on Pexels.

Shopping

Shopaholics are certain to love Manila’s vibrant mix of malls and markets. If you’re looking for luxury stores, make sure to visit Shangri-La Plaza where you’ll find all the high end brands. If you’re looking for more affordable fashion and handmade souvenirs, consider booking a hotel near Greenhills Shopping Center, which features a mixture of shops and market stalls. Then there’s SM City Manila - one of the largest malls in Southeast Asia, where you’ll find a vast range of stores to suit all purposes.

Nightlife

Manila is the nightlife capital of The Philippines. A particularly renowned area for nightlife is Poblacion where you’ll find a mixture of swanky rooftop cocktail bars, buzzing trendy nightclubs and budget-friendly hidden bars. There are many hostels and hotels that you can book in this area if you want to make the most of the nightlife. That said, you’ll find bars and clubs all across the city.

Photo credit: Wilson Ren on Pexels.

History

While Manila sports a lot of modern architecture, it also has a lot of well-preserved history. Visiting Intramuros, the city’s historic walled sector, is like taking a step back in time - the streets are cobblestoned and there are many impressive colonial buildings here dating back centuries. Popular historic sights include San Agustin Church and Fort Santiago. Make sure to also explore some of the city’s museums where you can learn about the history of Manila and The Philippines (some top choices for museums in Manila include San Agustin Museum, Ayala Museum and the National Museum of Natural History).

Photo credit: Cesan Escuadro.

Cuisine

There are thousands of restaurants to choose from in Manila. It’s possible to try cuisines from all around the world. This includes traditional Filipino dishes like adobo, kare-kare and chicken sotanghon. If you’re brave enough, you can also try balut (fertilised duck egg). Pateros in Manila is often referred to as the ‘balut capital of the Phillipines’ and is a good place to try this controversial delicacy. Make sure to also visit the city’s Chinatown, Binondo - the oldest Chinatown in the world - where you can try some incredible Chinese cuisine.

Art

There is also a thriving art scene in Manila. Throughout the city, you will find galleries and cultural centers showcasing works from local and international artists. This includes the National Museum of Fine Arts and Casa Manila Museum. Art In Island is also a unique art-themed attraction that is worth visiting in Manila - it’s an interactive 3D art museum that allows you to become a part of various famous works.

Deliciously Healthy Through the Years: Kenny Rogers Roasters Celebrates 30 Years of Flavorful Legacy.

Kenny Rogers Roasters is renowned for serving “deliciously healthy” meals and is proudly celebrating its 30th anniversary—a remarkable feat in a fast-paced, trend-driven industry where longevity is a true badge of success. Since 1995, the brand has grown into the country’s leading fast-casual restaurant, with over 150 stores nationwide. Known for its signature roasted chicken, hearty sides, and exciting food innovations, Kenny Rogers Roasters has redefined how Filipinos enjoy wholesome meals—proving that true greatness only gets better with time.

Redefined What Healthy Tastes Like

For the past 30 years, Kenny Rogers Roasters has redefined what healthy tastes like by offering wholesome, flavorful meals in a fast-casual setting. Known for its Classic Roasted Chicken—tender, juicy chicken slow-roasted to perfection—the brand has become a staple in Filipino households.

Kenny Rogers Roasters also offers a well-rounded menu that balances indulgence and nutrition, featuring staples like the fall of the bone ribs, Healthy Plates and Salad—complete with calorie counts to give customers greater transparency and control over their meals. Complementing its main dishes are a variety of comforting side options that have become fan favorites over the years, including the iconic corn muffin, mac and cheese, and steamed vegetables.

These thoughtfully crafted combinations reflect the brand’s enduring commitment to making deliciously healthy food both satisfying and accessible to all.

Kenny Rogers Roasters continues to innovate with bold, globally inspired flavors that excite the palate while staying true to its healthy roots. Limited-time offerings such as the Four Cheese Roast, Great Garlic Roast, Truffle Roast, and Chimichurri Roast have added variety and excitement to the menu, proving that nutritious food can also be indulgent and crave-worthy. By staying ahead of trends and listening to what customers want, Kenny Rogers Roasters has solidified its reputation as a trailblazer in the industry—one that leads with purpose and flavor.

“I Love Me Better”: The Campaign that Marks Legacy

To celebrate its 30th year, Kenny Rogers Roasters is launching its most personal and empowering campaign yet: “I Love Me Better.” The brand recognizes that choosing better for yourself—especially when it comes to food—takes intention and courage. This campaign champions self-love through mindful eating, reminding everyone that even small decisions, like opting for healthier meals, can be powerful acts of self-care.

Marketing Director Lorent Martin Adrias explains that Kenny Rogers Roasters is for those who believe every better choice matters. “Sometimes, better choices start with something as simple as choosing better meals for yourself. When we choose healthier, better meals, we’re not just fueling our bodies but embracing self-love,” he says. “Choosing Kenny Rogers Roasters is more than a meal decision—it’s a commitment to loving yourself better.”

Reflecting this bold message, the “I Love Me Better” campaign took over high-traffic, unexpected spaces—from a full train wrap on LRT-1 and bus wraps in BGC to bike boards and inspiring billboards along EDSA. Each placement carried messages of self-love and empowerment, turning everyday commutes into bold reminders to choose better. The campaign also introduced a new, feel-good jingle now streaming on Spotify, extending the message through music.

For three decades, Kenny Rogers Roasters has led with purpose—redefining what deliciously healthy means while influencing communities through innovation and impact. “The legacy of Kenny Rogers Roasters is unmatched,” Adrias concludes. “And the future is set to raise the bar even higher.”

Frederick Siy, President and CEO of Kenny Rogers Roasters, concluded, “We’re not just looking back at 30 years of success—we’re showing what enduring excellence truly means. Kenny Rogers Roasters has stood the test of time by continuously evolving to cater to our consumers’ needs. As we move ahead, we remain committed to serving food that’s both delicious and healthy.” 

Celebrate Mother's Day with Lemon Square Bakery Treats' Berry Blossom Bouquet!

Mother's Day is just around the corner, and what better way to show your love and appreciation than with a beautifully crafted cake? This year, Lemon Square Bakery Treats introduces its latest masterpiece: the Berry Blossom Bouquet Cake—a delightful fusion of elegance, freshness, and flavor that perfectly captures the essence of spring and the warmth of a mother's love.

Blooming with Love in Every Slice

The Berry Blossom Bouquet Cake is a true celebration of a mother's love. Delicately layered with moist vanilla and strawberry chiffon with mixed berries filling in between, this cake is also adorned with blooms of buttercream rosebuds guaranteed to melt any mom's heart. The Berry Blossom Bouquet Cake is not just a dessert, but a centerpiece worthy of any Mother's Day celebration.

Perfect for Your Mother's Day Celebration

Whether it's a small Sunday brunch with the family or a grand celebration with guests and all, the Berry Blossom Bouquet Cake is the perfect addition to your table. Its dainty design and delicate taste are sure to impress not only your mom but everyone around. Pair it with a cup of coffee or maybe a glass of wine to elevate your Mother's Day experience.

The Berry Blossom Bouquet is available at all Lemon Square Bakery Treats branches for just Php 495. Also available for Mother's Day are the Special Brownies (Php 109 per box of 6), Special Cake Pops (Php 199 per box of 12), and Rose Chocolate Bouquet (Php 125). These blooming treats are also available for delivery via FoodPanda and Grab.

Happy Mother's Day! Cheers to us moms! 

Celebrate Chinese New Year with a Delicious Culinary Adventure at SM Supermalls.

Celebrate the Chinese New Year with a gastronomic adventure at SM Supermalls from January 18 to January 31! Embark on a journey through flavors highlighting only the best Chinese restaurants and their must-try dishes to make your festivities even more special. Not sure where to eat out? Here are some delectable spots to celebrate the festivities:

Paradise Dynasty

SM Aura, SM Podium, S Maison

Known for the world’s first 8-flavored Xiao Long Bao, Paradise Dynasty is a must-visit for dumpling lovers. Each soup dumpling has a unique flavor, from black truffle to ginseng, szechuan to crab roe, making every bite a delightful surprise. Don’t miss their signature La Mian noodles and the mouthwatering Charcoal Custard Lava Bun for dessert!

Sichu Malatang

SM Mall of Asia, SM Podium

Dive into the numbing and deliciously fiery world of authentic Malatang hotpot, a Chinese classic perfect for chilly weather. Sichu Malatang lets you customize your bowl with your favorite ingredients and spice level. Tatler recognized it as one of the best hotpot spots in Metro Manila, so it’s a must-try for hotpot enthusiasts.

Honolulu Café

SM Aura

Step into Hong Kong’s vibrant food scene at Honolulu Café. Their signature egg tart is a flaky, creamy masterpiece you won’t forget. Pair it with their BBQ pork buns, curry fish balls, or a comforting bowl of Hong Kong style noodle soup with fried egg.

Lugang Café

SM Mall of Asia, SM Aura, SM Megamall, SM City Davao

Lugang Café offers the finest in traditional Taiwanese cuisine. Indulge in their Three-Cup Chicken, Beef Noodle Soup, and a variety of dumplings that burst with authentic Taiwanese flavors. The classic taste of their Cantonese Iced Milk Tea is the perfect sweet ending to your meal.

Tong Yang

Multiple SM Locations

For those who love variety, Tong Yang’s unlimited hotpot and grill is the place to be. With an extensive selection of fresh meats, seafood, and vegetables, you can create endless combinations to satisfy your cravings. Pair it with a selection of dipping sauces for a truly customized experience.

Tim Ho Wan

SM Seaside City Cebu, SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, SM Mall of Asia

Treat yourself to Tim Ho Wan’s iconic Baked BBQ Pork Buns. These sweet-savory buns are a crowd favorite and a must-try for any foodie. Other notable dishes include their flavorful Pork Dumplings with Shrimp and their lightly fried Beancurd Skin Roll.

Modern Shang

S Maison, SM BF Parañaque, SM City Clark, SM Mall of Asia, SM City Santa Rosa, SM City Sta. Mesa

Modern Shang delivers elevated Chinese classics with a twist. Their Crispy Fried Noodles and Deep-Fried Squid with Spicy Salt and Pepper are showstoppers that will have you coming back for more. Don’t forget to try their savory Deep-Fried Chicken, which pairs perfectly with their signature fried rice.

Din Tai Fung

SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA, SM Megamall

Home to the world’s most famous Xiao Long Bao, Din Tai Fung is a must-visit destination for a Lucky Feast! Watch as these delicate soup dumplings are made fresh before your eyes and savor their signature pork Xiao Long Bao. Pair your meal with their Shrimp and Pork Wontons with House Special Spicy Sauce and Mango Sago with Pomelo for a complete dining experience.

Don’t miss this flavorful celebration of Chinese cuisine during the Year of the Snake festivities at SM Supermalls. Download the SM Malls Online app for dining deals galore!

From Modern Shanghai to Hap Chan, SM Malls Online will ensure that you enjoy the best meals and deals this Chinese New Year.

A Taste of Singapore at Hawker Chan.

SM City Sto. Tomas, the fourth SM Supermall in the province of Batangas, prides itself as the first "Singapore style" mall in the Philippines with its stunning, nature-inspired architectural design. With over 150 retail stores, restaurants, and specialty shops, SM City Sto. Tomas has easily become a favorite among Batangueños and those from nearby provinces. Personally, I like this mall because of Uniqlo and Digital Walker (which are not found in SM San Pablo), and the variety of dining options. Among the restaurant choices in this mall is Hawker Chan, where we had lunch last weekend. 

Hawker Chan at SM City Sto. Tomas.

Hawker Chan, which began as a humble hawker stall in Singapore, is a global franchise known for its high-quality yet affordable food. Originally known as "Chan Hon Meng Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle" (Chan Hon Meng being the chef and owner), the stall became popular for its signature dish, the soya sauce chicken rice - tender and flavorful chicken served with fragrant rice, drizzled with savory soy sauce. After earning a Michelin star in 2016*, this small hawker stall catapulted to fame and expanded beyond its original location in Singapore, opening branches in several countries including the Philippines. 

To date, Hawker Chan has nineteen branches all over the country. The new stores, including the SM Sto. Tomas branch, are now dubbed as Hawker Chan 2.0 with its stylish interiors and expanded menu. They've also somewhat evolved to a casual dining restaurant, with orders taken from and served to your table instead of lining up at the counter. 

Here's a quick look at what we ordered at Hawker Chan. 

Soya Sauce Chicken, Php 198.

Yue and Maggie had the signature Soya Sauce Chicken meal, which comes with some peanuts and prawn crackers on the side. Yue had never been to Singapore before so he's not very familiar with Singaporean food, and I was pleasantly surprised that he liked this dish. (Looks like he's ready enough to go on a trip to the Lion City, haha.) 

Roasted Duck, Php 338 + Buchi, Php 98 (4 pcs).

Mom had the Roasted Duck meal which comes with a marinated egg and some prawn crackers. She liked the flavor of the duck, although the meat was not as tender as she wanted it to be. The marinated egg was good, kinda like the mayak gyeran (Korean marinated egg) that I make at home.

Char Siew (BBQ) Pork, Php 218.

Morgan and my sister-in-law had the Char Siew Pork meal, which also comes with some peanuts and prawn crackers like the Soya Sauce Chicken meal.

Hawker BBQ Pork Platefull, Php 280.

My brother and I, on the other hand, ordered a BBQ Pork Platefull each which comes with a cup of rice, stir-fry noodles, prawn crackers, a piece of buchi, a bowl of wonton soup, and a glass of cola. The BBQ pork was tender and flavorful, which I loved, the stir-fry noodles were good, the wonton soup was so-so. The true star of this platter was the buchi with its yummy peanut filling. Yue loved it so much he ordered four pieces for himself.

Our first shopping/food trip of the year. :)

Overall, dining at Hawker Chan was a pleasant experience. Everything was good - the food, the price, the ambiance, and even the service. Will I consider dining here again? Of course! Next time I'll probably try their Hainanese Chicken and Char Kway Teow (Singaporean noodles), and maybe some Chendol too, for that complete "Singapore style" experience. 

*Sadly, Hawker Chan lost its Michelin star in 2021. I'm hoping they earn it back.

Hawker Chan

SM City Sto. Tomas

Pan-Philippine Highway, San Roque,

Sto. Tomas, Batangas

Snack Your Way to South Korea: Mister Potato and Squid Game 2 Present the Ultimate “Crunch to Win” Challenge.

Mister Potato Philippines is taking your love for snacks to a thrilling new level. In collaboration with Netflix’s global hit Squid Game, Mister Potato has launched an interactive contest that could turn your next canister of crisps into a passport to incredible prizes—including a dream trip to South Korea!

Dubbed the Crunch to Win: Mister Potato x Squid Game 2 contest, this high-stakes campaign combines the excitement of Netflix’s breakout series with the irresistible crunch of Mister Potato snacks. Whether you're a Squid Game superfan or a dedicated snacker, this campaign promises something for everyone.

The Crunch That Could Take You to Korea

Running from November 15, 2024, to January 15, 2025, the Crunch to Wincontest invites snack lovers to uncover hidden Squid Game-inspired symbols inside the metal lids of specially marked Mister Potato canisters. These symbols could be your ticket to an unforgettable journey filled with exclusive prizes.

Here’s what’s at stake:

● Weekly Prizes:

○ Squid Game Funko Pop collectibles.

○ P1,000 worth of vouchers for select partners.

○ Bundles of Mister Potato products to keep your snack stash stocked.

● Grand Prize:

○ A dream getaway to South Korea, including airfare, accommodations, and a curated itinerary designed to immerse you in the magic of Korean culture.

● Consolation Prizes:

○ Additional bundles of Mister Potato products.

○ Exclusive Squid Game merchandise and vouchers worth up to P1,500.

Each canister brings a new opportunity to win, making snack time an even more exciting adventure!

How It Works

Participating in the contest is as easy as crunching open your favorite Mister Potato flavor. Follow these steps to join:

1. Purchase limited-edition Mister Potato x Squid Game 2 canisters, available at leading retailers nationwide.

2. Look for the hidden Squid Game symbols inside the metal lid of the canister.

3. Submit your entries online at www.misterpotatoph.com.

4. Follow Mister Potato on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok to get updates on contest announcements, symbol collection tips, and winner reveals.

Each unique symbol you find serves as a ticket to the weekly draws and the grand prize. The more symbols you collect, the better your chances of winning!

Pop Culture Meets Snack Innovation

This collaboration between Mister Potato and Squid Game 2 is a testament to the power of blending entertainment and consumer engagement. With Squid Game returning for a much-anticipated second season, Mister Potato aims to capture fans’ excitement and turn it into an unforgettable brand experience.

“Collaborating with Squid Game 2 felt like a natural fit for Mister Potato. Both our brand and the series have legions of loyal fans, and this contest allows us to bring something truly exciting and unique to both audiences,” said How Yuan Yi, Chief Marketing Officer of Mister Potato. “We’ve combined the thrill of watching Squid Game with the fun of enjoying a snack, offering fans a chance to win fantastic rewards along the way.”

By linking its signature snack with one of Netflix’s one of the most successful series, Mister Potato taps into the growing trend of experiential marketing, where brands create memorable, interactive moments for their consumers.

Beyond Snacking: A Gateway to Adventure

The Crunch to Win campaign isn’t just about munching on crisps; it’s about being part of a global phenomenon. The collaboration celebrates the best of both worlds—Mister Potato’s bold flavors and Squid Game’s gripping storytelling. Together, they’ve created a contest that takes consumer engagement to the next level.

“This collaboration with Netflix is about more than just cross-promotion,” the spokesperson added. “It’s about offering a new kind of experience, where our product becomes part of the fun and excitement of a global entertainment event. It’s not just a snack anymore; it’s a gateway to an adventure.”

Exclusive Canister Designs

The specially marked canisters are just as exciting as the prizes. Each flavor—Original, Sour Cream & Onion, Honey Cheese, Hot & Spicy, and Barbecue—features limited-edition Squid Game designs, making them collectible items for fans of the series. Whether you're a fan of the iconic Red Light, Green Light doll or the mysterious masked guards, these canisters add a touch of Squid Game to your snack shelf.

Your Chance to Be a Winner

Ready to crunch your way to South Korea? The Crunch to Win contest is your ticket to rewards that go beyond the snack aisle. With prizes designed for fans of both Mister Potato and Squid Game, this campaign offers a unique way to connect with your favorite snack brand while celebrating the cultural phenomenon that is Squid Game.

The contest is live from November 15, 2024, to January 15, 2025. Don’t miss your chance to collect those symbols, rack up entries, and snag one of the amazing prizes.

For more information and contest mechanics, visit www.misterpotatoph.com. Be sure to follow Mister Potato on social media to stay updated on the latest announcements, winner highlights, and special promotions.

After Tree Dessert Cafe Opens at SM City San Pablo.

A good cuppa, some flatlay-friendly food, and an Instagrammable ambience to boot - these are just some of the qualities that I look out for whenever I go cafe hopping or visit a coffee place. After Tree Dessert Cafe, with its newly opened branch at SM City San Pablo, has all these bases covered. 

After Tree Dessert Cafe is now open at SM City San Pablo!

Located at the mall's ground floor - you can't miss it!

Coffee? Meet me at After Tree. :)

Originating from Malaysia, After Tree has found its roots in the Philippines when they opened their first branch last year at SM City Santa Rosa. With the opening of their sixth branch in SM City San Pablo, After Tree continues to gain popularity with their eye-catching desserts, exceptional service, and excellent coffee.

A wide selection of cakes and pastries.

The Strawberry Basque Cheesecake is a must-try!

After Tree's menu includes a wide selection of cakes and pastries, frappes, and tea, even toast and kakigori (Japanese shaved ice). 

Milo Dinosaur Kakigori.

The highlight, of course, is the Signature Egg Tart made with 128 layers of preservative-free homemade crust. This beloved egg tart is also available in two new flavors Ube Taro and Salted Egg. (Best served chilled, take my word for it!)  

Taro and Signature Egg Tart plus my all-time favorite Spanish Latte.

Cappuccino paired with Tiramisu and Chocolate Macadamia Indulgence.

If you're in San Pablo City, don't forget to swing by After Tree located at the Ground Floor of SM City San Pablo. It's smack dab in the middle of the mall, you can't miss it! Don't forget to follow After Tree on Facebook and Instagram for promos and updates.

Shake Off the Stress | 4 Hacks to Lift Up Your Mood on Busy Days.

There are days when everything at school or work goes as planned, and then there are days when the stress keeps you from being productive. These are the times many dread the most because it disrupts one from being in the zone.

To help you get through these days, try out these simple hacks that can help lift your mood up even on your busiest day.

Photo credit: Ivan Samkov on Pexels.

Call a friend

Sometimes, a friend’s listening ear and empathic voice are the balms you need to get through your day. Lean on your support group and don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Photo credit: Sam Lion on Pexels.

Watch cute animal videos

Have you ever watched videos of tiny animals being all cute and silly on your feed? These videos might just melt your heart and make you feel warm and fuzzy inside. Turns out, studies prove that watching these videos helps reduce anxiety levels by up to 50%!

Photo credit: Askar Abayev on Pexels.

Schedule something fun after work hours

Try this no-fail hack on your worst work days. Rally your friends and have an after-work karaoke sesh, game night, dinner, or gig night. Having something to look forward to after the day’s battles can really help manage your stress.

Photo credit: Engin Akyurt on Pexels.

Have a snack break

Snack breaks are the perfect excuse to escape your desk, huddle with your teammates, and vent your stress away. You also get to recharge with delicious snacks, and who doesn’t like that?

Speaking of snacks that help you recharge, have you tasted Kropek ni Mang Juan in Spicy Fried Pusit flavor? It offers a “kakaibang” snacking experience with its light and “crispy sarap” texture, and a “saktong anghang at alat” flavor of fried squid. It’s a one-of-a-kind snack that can satisfy your tastebuds.

Kropek ni Mang Juan in Spicy Fried Pusit flavor.

Try it on your next snack break! Get Kropek ni Mang Juan in Spicy Fried Pusit flavor from a convenience store near your office and share it with your colleagues. You may just discover your new go-to recharge work snack!

Don’t let a bad mood ruin a work day. Next time you find yourself needing something to lighten up the vibe and help you refocus, try one (or all) of these mood-lifting hacks!

#PushLangWithMangJuan! Learn more about Mang Juan’s light and lutong-sarap good vibes snacks on its Facebook and TikTok pages.

Mang Juan is a snack brand from Universal Robina Corporation (URC), maker of well-loved Pinoy snack and beverage products such as C2 Cool and Clean, Great Taste Coffee, Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Magic Crackers, Maxx, Cloud 9, and many others. To learn more about URC, visit its website (www.urc.com.ph), Facebook page (@URCPhilippines) and TikTok account (@URCPhilippines).