On days when the pockets are low on cash, my refuge are places in nearby cities that offer clean air, refreshing views and comfort food.
Such destination is the UP Diliman campus in Quezon City. One of the Philippines' state universities is open to the public and Sunday is when some of the roads are closed to give way to joggers, runners & bikers.
I was there last weekend with a friend, supposedly for a training run. Both of us were not able to exercise much during the work week and needed to sweat it off, but we ended up walking around for about two hours - mostly chatting, laughing and uhm devouring the fine offerings at the various food stalls conveniently placed at the side of the road. I had taho (yum, haven't eaten that for quite some time!) and steamed corn (yummm, I missed that!).
I was there last weekend with a friend, supposedly for a training run. Both of us were not able to exercise much during the work week and needed to sweat it off, but we ended up walking around for about two hours - mostly chatting, laughing and uhm devouring the fine offerings at the various food stalls conveniently placed at the side of the road. I had taho (yum, haven't eaten that for quite some time!) and steamed corn (yummm, I missed that!).
After about 3 or 4 rounds down the usual running route, my friend brought me to what she referred to as the stall with the "Best Siomai in UP Diliman". As a foodie who is head over heels in love with steamed pork dumplings, no prodding was required. I feel elated at the thought of siomai! I eat it regularly but each bite always feels like the first time I had it. Just the thought makes me smile. Haha!
The attractive green stall is in front of the Architecture building and has the friendliest siomai vendor ever. I was told that she's a good listener and students would often tell her about their teenage angsts and other issues. Four pieces cost 30 Pesos, which is higher than your usual siomai around the corner but it was worth it! There's quail eggs inside (which was a downside for me because I can't consume that much egg) but it was good, garlic was crunchy and service was excellent. Aside from siomai, they also offer snacks, softdrinks, juices, Figaro coffee in sachets (yes, I am not kidding!) and more. I miss this place already.
The attractive green stall is in front of the Architecture building and has the friendliest siomai vendor ever. I was told that she's a good listener and students would often tell her about their teenage angsts and other issues. Four pieces cost 30 Pesos, which is higher than your usual siomai around the corner but it was worth it! There's quail eggs inside (which was a downside for me because I can't consume that much egg) but it was good, garlic was crunchy and service was excellent. Aside from siomai, they also offer snacks, softdrinks, juices, Figaro coffee in sachets (yes, I am not kidding!) and more. I miss this place already.
After our siomai stopover, we continued our walk around UP. We reached Laurel Street, which is an entire block lined up with food stalls in front of homes. It was heaven! How I envy the people who live here and walk out of their house every morning and enjoy the convenience of having nearby comfort food. My eyes gazed longingly at this stall which sells Yang Chow and Siomai, it was closed though so I am meant to go back some other time. :P
Our final stopover was Maginhawa street which is at the nearby Teacher's Village just outside the campus. This popular street is filled it with food establishments on both sides of the street. It was a long walk from where we were, but worth it. We decided to check out The Burger Project, which lets you take charge of what you want in your burgers with their array of choices from buns, patties, right down to the dressings and add-ons. 95 Pesos could get you a huge piece of good burger. They have tofu patties for those who do not eat meat so I recommend it to everyone! :)
After chatting, munching and laughing some more, we decided to call it a day so we can finally head home and bathe. Though I was not able to train as much as I wanted, I consider it a fulfilling day - both literally and figuratively. Besides, no amount of exercise can beat a great chat, excellent companionship and lotsa laughter for less than 500 Pesos. :)
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