Life on a plate!: 10 year College Reunions! Stock Market, Bonifacio High Street

My really good friend Pat announced over facebook that it was Assumption College Class 2000's 10th year reunion and that there was a get together at school to celebrate! 10 years...it couldn't have been that long since college. There are days when I feel like I've just stepped out of my school's campus and into the "real" world.

My best memories of my 4 years in college include exhibits, all nighters, clubs, free cuts, thesis and graduation. I was lucky to have kept strong friendships with a small group of friends that have stuck with me through life's ups and downs.

The last time I was with the group was my last trip to Manila last November. It was a friday night and after hours of traffic we met up at one of the many malls in Manila, the Bonifacio High Street. Dinner was in one of the new favorites in town, Stock Market. No, it has nothing to do with stocks and bonds but more about stock produce. The restaurant is owned by the Del Monte brand which enjoys market share of their pineapple products. Fresh produce and deli items are also available in the restaurant as well as pastries and cooking gadgets.

The interiors reflect a tropical plantation home. The space enjoys a very high ceiling and is very light and casual in ambiance. That night, there was an after office crowd but there were also a good number of couples and families dining.

The cuisine is mostly upscale comfort food. Ranging from fresh salads, soups and a selection of mains. Items to note are those using pineapple as a main ingredient - especially the burger! Their pizzas are also great starters for groups, they have a very thin crust that's quite unique. As for me, I really enjoy the roasted chicken especially because of the stuffing. And for dessert, my friend Tanya will recommend the baked alaska without batting an eyelash!

Another note worthy item in the menu is their beers that have been chilled to a temperature of between -2 to -6 c! The sub zero temperatures give you a unique drinking experience. There are a number of these freezers between the restaurants and bars in Manila and other provinces, and is one draw of Stock Market. Despite the extreme temperature of the chillers - the beers are very cold but not frozen when it is served to you. Ice crystals form only when the bottle is tapped!

Manila is such a foodie place and the unique offerings of places like Stock Market make you want to explore even more.

'Till the next post!

Sharlyn