LA Eats: Pete's Sunset Grille

We touched down LA late at night, so right after we checked in at the Hyatt, we decided to eat somewhere nearby.  We walked around the hotel property, and found a bar that was open.  Not much other restaurants were open at that time, so the choices were pretty limited.  Grumbling stomachs told us to just go in, so we did.  Sadly, since it was really late at night, the only food that they were serving was the bar chow.  Oh well, guess we had to make do with it.  

Here's what we had: 

Yucca Fries

Spicy Lime Sea Salt, Mojo Mayo

At first thought, I really thought that these were fries. Huge cut ones.  But after tasting it and researching about it, I found out that yucca is actually 'a type of plant that grows in dry regions and has hard pointed leaves at the base and a long stem with white flowers'.  Tasted very similar to potatoes.  Pretty good!

Korean BBQ Hot Wings

Kimchi Slaw, Scallions, Sesame Seeds

Was disappointed to find out that this was a dry-rub and not your typical wings with BBQ sauce.  And since it's dry-rub, it was indeed... dry.

Nachos

Cheddar & jack Cheese, Tomatoes, Japalenos, Green Onions, Guacamole, Sour Cream

Loved the combination, hated the nachos itself.  Some were crunchy while some were not.

The 2x2 All American Double Cheeseburger

Lettuce, Tomato, House Special Sauce, Sesame Bun, Pickle, Fries

The burger was ok, but it was nothing special.  

Kalua Pork Sliders

Hawaiian Sweet Rolls, Guava BBQ Sauce, Shaves Cabbage, Pickles Red Onions

Now these, were pretty good.  A combination of sweet BBQ sauce and tender pork meat makes it one of the better dishes of the night. 

Overall, we weren't very impressed by the food in Pete's Sunset Grille.  But since this is just their bar chow, I'll give it the benefit of the doubt.  Based on what we had though, I'd have to give it 1.5 out of 5 stars.

Pete's Sunset Grille is at Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa, 21500 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, California, United States of America

Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa

My cousin's wedding was to be at the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach, so as we were planning on where to stay, we figured it's best to stay at the same hotel to avoid the trouble of shuffling back and forth from one hotel to another at the day of the wedding.  Since we will be in LA for a week, we figured we'll just stay at the Hyatt for 4 nights, then move to another hotel downtown for the remaining 3.  And that's exactly what we did.  Here's a look at our room at the Hyatt Regency:

View from the door

Bed

TV and Working Area

Couch

A closer look at the working area

The room from another view

Tub/Sink

Bathroom

So how was it?  The hotel had this really old elegant look to it, but I like modern looking ones better.  That being said, I have zero complaints about the hotel.  The rooms are big and clean, the staff extremely accommodating and there's free wifi!  Another plus is that the Huntington Beach is less than 5 minutes walk away, so if you feel like catching the breeze or going in for a dip, it's really convenient to do so!  4.5 out of 5 stars!

Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa is at 21500 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, California, United States of America

Outfit of the Week: Mambo No. 5

Does anyone remember the music video to Lou Bega's Mambo No. 5?  Ring a bell?  No?  Sheesh my age is catching up with me!  For those who do not have a clue what I'm talking about, say hello to YouTube.  And to those who actually know what I'm saying, this outfit was inspired by the video.  I've always loved fringe and everything girly, so when I saw this skirt, I just couldn't resist!  Yes, even if it was a size too small and a tad too short.  Loved how the fringe sways around when I walk, and how I feel like I should always shake my bon-bons while wearing it!  Paired it with something boxy to contrast the overall shock factor of the skirt.  I personally love this whole outfit.  In fact, it's one of my favorites.

So... Did anyone notice my absence?  I might not have mentioned it, but I was in LA for a week for my cousin's wedding.  Finally, somewhere NOT Hong Kong!  LOL!  Such a shame that it was quite a short trip, but nonetheless fun.  We managed to squeeze in a bit of eating and sightseeing, so expect quite a few posts on LA in the coming days!

Top:  Topshop
Skirt:  Mphosis
Bag:  YSL
Shoes:  Forever 21

KyoChon

When you hear about Korean fried chicken, what automatically comes to your mind?  Probably BonChon, since they were the first to open here in the Philippines.  A few months ago, I noticed a soon-to-open sign for KyoChon in SM Megamall.  I've heard good things about the restaurant chain, but never had the chance to try it out.  So I guess you could say I was excited for KyoChon's opening.

Fast forward to last month, KyoChon finally opened!  Thanks to SM Megamall's 3-day-sale which lured me to shop till I drop, Hubby and I found ourselves in front of KyoChon one late Friday night.  Let's see if they live up to the hype!

KyoChon offers three different sauces for their fried chicken.  The Original, the Red Series and the Honey Series.  Finally, a new flavor!  I was beginning to get sick of the usual soy garlic or spicy flavors.

Original Series

First up, the Original Series, also known as the soy garlic.  Was not too impressed with the original series, I found it a bit bland compared to BonChon's.

Red Series

Next, the Red Series, also known as the spicy one.  According to the menu, the Red Series is glazed with the original hot sauce made from Korea's hottest red chili peppers.  Reading about it already makes me sweat.  I did however, take a bite and found it to be nicely flavorful.  Still too hot for my taste though, but spicy lovers will definitely find comfort in it.

Honey Series

And finally, the Honey Series.  Sweet and sticky chicken pieces which are marinated for 24 hours with KyoChon's special seasoning, then fried and coated with honey.  It would be an understatement to say that this was my favorite from among the three.  If you have a sweet tooth like me, then this is definitely the one for you.

Soonsal Series

And for those who want something different, try out the Soonsal Series.  The Soonsal Series are chicken strips coated with rice krispies, which gives off a nice crunch.  Perfect for beer pairing.

Galbi Chicken Steak Rice

 The Galbi Chicken Steak somehow reminded me of the chicken barbeque in Aristocrat.  The meat was tender and very flavorful.  But what impressed me the most was the kimchi rice.  I'm never really eat kimchi, but with KyoChon's kimchi rice, I found myself craving for more.

KyoChon's interior

So how was my KyoChon experience?  I loved it!  And yes, they're even better than BonChon.  I specially loved the Honey Series and their Kimchi Rice.  A definite must try!  Can't wait to go back for more.  4 out of 5 stars!


Kyochon is at UG/F SM Megamall, Mega B, EDSA cor. Julia Vargas Ave., Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City

Outfit of the Week: Matchy-Matchy

Ever since the matching top and bottom trend came to life, I've been on the lookout for something like it and have browsed countless stores in search for my pieces.  Sadly, finding something like it was next to impossible.  The stores either do not carry matching pieces, or they do but the fabric/cut/fit was just wrong.  So I went for the next best thing:  made to order!  Good thing Apartment 8 has this service, and within a week of having my measurements taken, it was done!  Best thing about having MTOs?  The fit was perfect.  The cost might be a little bit higher than retail, but you're assured of good quality and everything is according to how you want it to be.  

Notice the clutch?  Another great buy from my recent Hong Kong trip.  Sadly, it wasn't on sale.  Givenchy actually released this rottweiler print a few seasons back, but I missed out on it.  So I promised myself that if ever I see it again, I wouldn't pass up the chance the second time around.  Well, the Givenchy gods must have heard my plea, because they reissued the clutch for this season!  Who would have thought??  Lucky!

Like my look?  Sound off at the comments section please!

Top and Shorts:  Apartment 8 (MTO)
Shoes:  Brash
Clutch:  Givenchy

Hong Kong Eats: Mott 32

...and I saved the best for last.  Our very first meal in Hong Kong for this trip ended up to be the very best.  And instead of blabbing endlessly, I will just let the pictures do the talking.  Look on and get ready for some food porn!

Australian Wagyu Beef Puff

Innards of the Australian Wagyu Beef Puff

Kurobota Pork, Soft Quail Egg, Black Truffle Siu Mai

Look at the whole quail egg inside the siu mai!

Signature Crispy Sugar Coated BBQ Spanish Teruel Pork Bun

Innards of the BBQ Pork Bun

Kurobota Pork, Crab and Caviar Shanghainese Soup Dumplings

Honey Glazed BBQ Spanish Teruel Pork Cheung Fun

Sliced Garoupa, Black Truffle Cheung Fun

Wok Fried Kale, Dried Shrimp, Minced Pork, Shrimp Paste

Seafood Crispy Noodle

Suckling Pig

Casserole of Baby Napa Cabbage, Pork Belly, Garlic

Barbecue Prime Iberico Pork with Yellow Mountain Honey

It usually takes a lot for a restaurant to satisfy the discerning tastes of everyone in our family, but Mott 32 managed to do just that.  And not just satisfy, we were blown away!  Every single dish served that meal was oh so delicious!  And among all the dishes, two were standouts:  First, the quail egg with truffle siu mai.  Who would've thought that you CAN put an entire soft-boiled quail egg inside a siu mai, and that the truffle would compliment it so well?  Heaven.

Second is the BBQ Prime Iberico Pork with Honey.  OH. MY. GOSH.  Have you seen the marbling on the last photo?!  That must have been the BEST piece of pork that any one of us has ever tasted.  The meat was so tender and tasty, it was literally like eating marshmallows.  No exaggerations there.  Even my mom, who claims she never really did like char siu pork, says that she still dreams of this dish a few weeks after.  If you could only get one dish from Mott 32, then this is it.  Must.  Not.  Miss.  I will definitely be back the next time, and the next, and the next.  5 out of 5 stars!

Mott 32 is at Standard Chartered Building, 4-4a Des Voeux Road, Central, Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Shopping: Horizon Plaza

What's a girl to do when she finds herself in Hong Kong mid-season, and sales are nowhere to be found?  Outlet shopping, that's what!  While some of you might be familiar with Horizon Plaza, others have yet to discover this gem of a building.  Yes, you read that right.  BUILDING.  And I'm not talking 4-5 floors either.  Try 20-something?  Yes!  But before you start hyperventilating, keep in mind that not all floors are occupied and the stores are a mix of clothing, kids stuff and furniture.  But still.  Ok ok let me shorten the suspense.  Scroll on to see the photos!

Listing of stores at the lobby

I.T

The I.T Outlet is a mix of different brands ranging from Fred Perry to Comme des Garcons.  Some items go for up to 80% off!

J. Journey

J. Journey carries brands like DKNY, Repetto, Cath Kidston, UGG and Rockport.  There's even a buy 2-and-get-additional-15%-off promo!

Bluebell Fashion Warehouse

Bluebell Fashion Warehouse houses brands like Moschino, Blumarine, Carven, Anya Hindmarch and Alessi.

Replay

Famous denim house Replay has jeans going for around HKD300++.  What a steal!  Hubby was able to snag a leather messenger bag for 50% off!

Fairton Fashion Group

7 for All Mankind, Jean Paul Gaultier and Kookai are just some of the brand that can be found at the Fairton Fashion Group outlet.

ImagineXGroup

Fancy Paul & Shark?  How about 3.1 Phillip Lim?  There's also Tumi, Club Monaco and BCBG Max Azria inside the ImagineXGroup outlet.

Marc by Marc Jacobs

If you're a fan of Marc Jacobs then you'll have a grand time here.  Countless selections ranging from bags, sunglasses and clothing are waiting!

YSL

NOW we're talking.  Truth be told, this was one of the main reasons why I trooped over to the Horizon Plaza.  What you are looking at right now is a heaven of HKD1800 Tribtoos and YSL BDJ clutches at 30-40% off! 

Another ImagineXGroup outlet

Salvatore Ferragamos at 50% off?  Yes please!  Finding your size might be a challenge though.  Sizes are limited, so if you manage to find one that you like AND in your size, you lucky duck!  Grab it before someone else does!

HitGallery Warehouse

If you're looking for the following: CoSTUME NATIONAL, Galliano, and Fiorucci, then HitGallery Warehouse is the place to be.

Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren.  I think this one needs no explanation.

Pompei Warehouse

Craving for brands like Gucci, D&G, Armani, Bally, Burberry, Prada, Fendi, Versace, Givenchy and the like?  Look no more!  

Lane Crawford

And here's the other reason why I wanted to go to Horizon Plaza: Lane Crawford outlet!  The sheer size of the place and the assortment of things on sale will leave you in awe.  Some of the items are still priced on the high side, but if you dig deep enough, you might just come up with a winner!  Tip for the ladies:  don't (and I really mean it, DO NOT) miss the shoe section!

Joyce Warehouse

The Joyce Warehouse pales in comparison to Lane Crawford's, but it's still worth going and checking out.  

Sift

Hungry after all that shopping?  Have a break and try out Sift.  They specialize in cupcakes and other drool worthy desserts!

Cupcakes at Sift

Desserts/Macarons

See the Sift Chocolate Cake above?  Absolutely divine!  Couldn't say the same for the Red Velvet Cupcake though.  It was a bit dry.

Tree

And on the top floor, you will find Tree.  Tree is a furniture company that specializes in everything wood.  They have the whole floor to themselves!  If only I could, I would've brought some furnitures home!

An assortment of tables, chairs at Tree

Wood racks and whatnots

Tree Cafe

Hungry or tired?  Or just waiting for your companion to finish with the furniture shopping?  You can hang out at Tree Cafe.   

So... curious about what i ended up with?   I was able to score a pair of Repetto flats at 50% off, Comme des Garcons skirt for 70% off,  and get this:  YSL smoking slippers for 75% off!  Craaaaazyyyy!  How's that for a shopping accomplishment?  I was on a delirious high after scoring on some major goods.  Seriously, where else can you find such awesome deals, right?!  My wallet might have not been so happy, but I surely was!  

Suggestions:

a.  Allot the whole day for shopping at the Horizon Plaza.  Aside from the fact that the place is HUGE, there is also some distance between Horizon Plaza and the city.  You'll need about an hour to and hour and a half for travel.

b.  Not all shops are open every day.  From what I heard, Joyce is closed on Mondays.

c.  There is also a Prada outlet about 10 minutes walk from Horizon Plaza.  If you're a Prada fan, then you might want to check it out.  But if you're looking for great markdowns, you're in for a disappointment.  the last time I went, they were only offering about 20% off the original price.

d.  Shop starting from the top floor first.  That way, if you get tired waiting for the elevator, you can just walk down the stairs to the next floor.

Horizon Plaza is at 2 Lee Wing St. Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong

Directions:  from Causeway Bay, take city bus 592 to South Horizons.  Get off at South Horizons (last stop), and take a short taxi ride (about 5 minutes) to Horizon Plaza.  You can try walking but I would advise against it.  We tried it and went around in circles because the people around the area do not seem to know about Horizon Plaza.  We ended up taking a taxi and got there in 5 minutes.  Remember:  the less time you spend traveling, the more time you have for shopping! LOL!