Celia St. James

Saturday, May 31, 2025

💀 Tantanmen Trauma at Ramen Wave, Marikina?! Worth it ba o Lugi? 🍜🚫

💀 Tantanmen Trauma at Ramen Wave, Marikina?! Worth it ba o Lugi? 🍜🚫 Grabe, I really wanted to like Ramen Wave sa Narra St., Marikina. Aesthetic? ✔️ Cubicle setup? Cute and IG-worthy? ✔️ But sadly, the food? ❌ Eh.

Umorder ako ng Tantanmen at Chicken Karaage. ‘Yung tantanmen, medyo disappointing. Okay lang yung lasa, pero sobrang lapot nung broth parang kare-kare level thick, not even kidding. Hindi siya yung rich na lapot ha, more like na-evaporate na tubig sa sabaw. Not for me, pero sige, hindi ko siya tatawaging “pangit” just not balanced. Kaya pa i-improve.

Chicken karaage? So-so. Crispy? Kinda. Flavorful? Meh. But the real turn-off? UNHYGIENIC VIBES. 😫 Lahat ng cubicles may natirang stagnant water pitchers from other customers like, hello?! Ang gross. Dapat fresh dapat 'yan. Honestly, napabili tuloy ako ng bottled water na ginto ang presyo ₱40 for the smallest bottle?! Kala ko ₱14 lang!

Tapos ‘yung plain rice? ₱50. What the actual?? Dinaig pa niya ang mga hotel buffet sa price, pero the rice? Walang special. Like seriously.

So yeah, privacy = good, vibes = pang-IG, but food and sanitation? Yikes. Will I go back? NOPE. I’m here to eat ramen, not gamble with stagnant water and overpriced rice.

About the Author

Celia St. James @celiajamesse creates 🍋 Slice of life diary, neurodivergent advocacy, vlogs, and autism awareness + gaming content. Gaming & Life Vlog 🍋 | ASD | Digital Content Creator. My gaming channel feat. Wholesome Cozy Games, Adventure, Point & Click, Puzzle, Mystery & Detective, Story-Rich, Visual Novel, Role-Playing, Simulation, MMO, and Open World.

Friday, May 30, 2025

TAHO STORY SA AYALA FELIZ? BUY 1 TAKE 1? SIGN ME UP, BES! 🍨

TAHO STORY SA AYALA FELIZ? BUY 1 TAKE 1? SIGN ME UP, BES! 🍨 Okay, listen up mga ka-foodie! Dumaan ako sa Taho Story sa Ayala Malls Feliz and grabe, sulit na sulit ang BUY 1 TAKE 1 promo nila! Pinili ko yung taho with vanilla ice cream at yung taho with avocado ice cream with real avocado bits. Pero girl, kahit both were creamy and chill af, mas bet ko talaga 'yung vanilla combo. Why? Kasi dama pa rin 'yung OG taho feels—smooth, warm, at ‘di natatabunan ng ice cream flavor.

Yung avocado version? Masarap din siya, pero medyo nakikipag-agawan ng spotlight ‘yung avocado bits sa taho mismo. Parang love triangle na 'di mo alam kung sino pipiliin, pero at the end of the day, classic wins pa rin. 🤍 Vanilla + taho = perfect blend of lamig at init, sweetness at soy goodness.

Also, ambience sa Ayala Feliz is chill, maraming pwesto to sit and people-watch habang kinakain mo taho mo like a main character. For the price, super sulit na for two cups, lalo kung gusto mo lang mag-snack or pang-meryenda with a friend.

Final verdict? Babalikan ko ‘to. Pang-recommend sa tropa, especially kung gusto nila ng modern twist sa classic Pinoy fave. Don’t sleep on it—this spot deserves a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating from your local taho addict!

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Tuesday, May 20, 2025

🌸 She’s Not Just a Doll… She’s The Moment 💖 | My BJD Just Sitting There, Looking Prettier Than Me

🌸 She’s Not Just a Doll… She’s The Moment 💖 | My BJD Just Sitting There, Looking Prettier Than Me Have you ever seen something so pretty it made you stop and question your entire aesthetic? That was me today, walking past my BJD like, “Wait, why is she glowing like that?” No ring light, no filter, just raw main character energy coming from a ball-jointed doll that isn’t even trying. She was literally just chilling—and somehow looked better than 90% of us on our best days.

There’s a kind of silent power BJDs have. If you know, you know. It’s not just about the outfit (though let’s be honest, her outfit is giving), or the pose (subtle, but cinematic). It’s the aura. She’s sitting there like she owns the room, and honestly? Maybe she does. She didn’t even need a backdrop—she is the backdrop.

Every time I pass by her, it’s like she whispers, “I’m art. Do something.” And now I am. This is me doing something. This post is my love letter to a BJD who reminded me that stillness can be stunning, silence can be loud, and being pretty while doing nothing is a talent.

So if you’re into BJDs or just need a hit of peaceful, aesthetic perfection, take this as your sign: appreciate the quiet icons in your space. They’re not “just dolls.” They’re therapy in resin form.

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Monday, May 19, 2025

🍗✨ Hainanese Fried Chicken is Life sa Nanyang Gateway Mall 😋🥢

🍗✨ Hainanese Fried Chicken is Life sa Nanyang Gateway Mall 😋🥢 Okay so legit, I went to Nanyang sa Gateway Mall kasi craving ako ng something comforting and Asian vibes. I ordered their Hainanese Fried Chicken Rice and Laksa Fishball. Una sa lahat, sayang kasi walang prawn that time kaya fishball na lang, pero sige na nga. The Laksa broth was creamy and flavorful, medyo spicy in a good way, pero 'yung noodles? Meh. Parang rubber band na nilublob sa sabaw. Di ko siya bet, sorry not sorry.

BUT GIRL. That Hainanese Fried Chicken Rice? SLAPS. Crispy outside, juicy sa loob, tapos 'yung rice niya may lasa na kahit walang sauce. The dipping sauces pa? Trifecta ng sarap—lalo na 'yung ginger. Ang lakas maka-comfort food, parang niyakap ka ng ex mong hindi toxic.

Sakto lang ang serving size and price, sulit for mall food. Service was okay, medyo snob 'yung cashier ha and ang bagal nung order. The ambiance? Malinis, mall noise na torelable naman. If babalik ako, sure na chicken rice agad—hindi na ako magpapaloko sa noodles. 😂

Verdict: Laksa was a miss, pero the chicken? A certified winner. IYKYK.

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Saturday, April 5, 2025

🔥 Wildfire Smoke Is Harming More Than Lungs—It’s Triggering a Mental Health Crisis Too 🧠🌫️

🔥 Wildfire Smoke Is Harming More Than Lungs—It’s Triggering a Mental Health Crisis Too 🧠🌫️ We’ve always known wildfire smoke was dangerous, but it turns out it’s doing more than choking our lungs—it’s hurting our minds. A groundbreaking new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health just dropped, and its findings are nothing short of alarming. Turns out, exposure to wildfire-specific air pollution isn’t just a respiratory red flag—it’s a mental health emergency waiting to happen. We’re talking real spikes in depression, anxiety, and mood disorders right after the smoke rolls in.

This isn’t speculation—it’s science. Researchers analyzed emergency room visits across California during the brutal 2020 wildfire season, and the numbers don’t lie. As the smoke thickened, so did the mental toll. For every 10 μg/m³ increase in wildfire-specific PM2.5, emergency visits for mental health conditions like substance use, psychosis, depression, and anxiety shot up—and not just on the day of exposure, but for seven days after. That’s a full week of heightened emotional and psychological distress caused by what’s basically invisible dust in the air.

And here’s the gut punch: the most affected weren’t just anyone. The highest risk fell on women, kids, young adults, Black and Hispanic communities, and people on Medicaid. Which means the already vulnerable are the ones suffering most—and the ones least likely to have easy access to mental health care. It's not just a climate issue or a public health issue. It's an equity issue. A survival issue.

What we’re seeing here is proof that the effects of climate change aren’t just environmental. They’re deeply personal, emotional, and psychological. You can’t out-breathe this. You can’t out-tough it. If our skies are poisoned, our minds are at risk—and this study makes that terrifyingly clear.

This wildfire season, don’t just protect your lungs. Check in on your mind, your neighbors, your family. Mental health isn’t a footnote in the climate conversation—it’s a headline. And this one deserves to go viral.

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Teresa of the Faint Smile Is Slaying IRL—These Claymore Cosplays Are Straight-Up Legendary ⚔️✨

Teresa of the Faint Smile Is Slaying IRL—These Claymore Cosplays Are Straight-Up Legendary ⚔️✨ Let’s talk about a woman who doesn’t just own the battlefield—she owns the fandom. Teresa of the Faint Smile, the iconic and terrifyingly graceful No. 1 warrior from Claymore, is a name whispered with awe in anime circles. But in the cosplay world? She's become something more. A myth. A muse. A moment. And right now, the internet is absolutely losing it over some of the most jaw-dropping Teresa cosplays we’ve seen in years. These aren’t just outfits. These are full-on transformations.

Teresa of the Faint Smile Cosplay by Arabella Elric

The way cosplayers have brought her to life is nothing short of breathtaking. The silver eyes, the windswept cape, the glint of that massive Claymore sword—all captured with such precision and reverence, it’s enough to make you forget you're not watching a live-action adaptation. From hauntingly ethereal edits to battlefield photoshoots that look ripped straight out of a Madhouse storyboard, these creators are living the Teresa fantasy.

Teresa of the Faint Smile Cosplay by PVT Waffles

What makes it so powerful is that Teresa’s character is the perfect balance of elegance and absolute devastation. She’s soft-spoken and subtle, but don’t let that faint smile fool you—she can end you in a second. That duality is what draws cosplayers in. It’s not just about looking cool in silver armor (though, let’s be real, they all do). It’s about embodying a character who radiates calm control, hidden rage, and ultimate loyalty. Teresa isn’t just admired—she’s felt.

Teresa of the Faint Smile Cosplay by Phee Cosplay

Some of these cosplays are going viral for good reason. They hit that perfect storm of craftsmanship, presence, and straight-up Claymore energy. You’ve got veteran creators mixing practical armor builds with cinematic filters. You’ve got newcomers nailing Teresa’s stare like they’ve trained for it. And the fan love in the comments? Off the charts.

Teresa of the Faint Smile Cosplay by Arabella Elric

This wave of Teresa cosplays is reminding us that anime isn’t just entertainment—it’s legacy. It inspires real-world artistry and emotional connection. So if you’ve been sleeping on Claymore or never really “got” the hype around Teresa, these cosplayers are here to wake you up. And honestly? We're wide awake and standing at attention.

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Monday, March 31, 2025

📚 Book Review: "The Anatomy of Forever" – A Powerful Sapphic Romance That Stays With You 💖

📚 Book Review: "The Anatomy of Forever" – A Powerful Sapphic Romance That Stays With You 💖 T.B. Markinson’s The Anatomy of Forever is a beautifully written sapphic romance that has taken Amazon’s charts by storm—and for good reason. This emotionally resonant novel dives deep into themes of identity, love, grief, and healing, all through the lens of two women navigating their complex emotional worlds. With genuine dialogue and vivid inner monologues, Markinson crafts characters that feel real and raw, inviting readers into a journey that’s equal parts heartbreaking and heartwarming.

The chemistry between the leads is electric, yet the story doesn’t rush the romance. Instead, it lets each moment breathe, allowing the emotional tension to build naturally. The writing is sharp, honest, and often poetic, with just the right blend of vulnerability and strength. Readers have praised this book for its authentic representation of queer relationships, its character-driven narrative, and its ability to evoke real, lasting emotion.

The Anatomy of Forever is a standout in sapphic literature, a must-read for fans of LGBTQ+ fiction, and a reminder of how healing love can be when it's allowed to flourish at its own pace.

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Thursday, March 27, 2025

🧠 Unmasking 101: How Embracing Your True Self Can Change Everything! 💡

🧠 Unmasking 101: How Embracing Your True Self Can Change Everything! 💡 For years, society has taught us to hide our quirks, tone ourselves down, and blend in just to be accepted. But here’s the truth: masking is exhausting, and it takes a serious toll on our mental health. If you’re neurodivergent—whether autistic, ADHD, or somewhere in between—you’ve likely spent years suppressing stims, forcing eye contact, or rehearsing conversations just to “fit in.”

But at what cost? Studies show that masking is linked to burnout, anxiety, and even identity loss. Unmasking isn’t about rejecting everything you’ve built—it’s about recognizing which parts of you are authentic and which were just survival mechanisms.

Imagine a world where you could communicate naturally, stim freely, and express yourself without fear. The first step? Finding safe, supportive spaces where you can start peeling back the layers. It’s not about dropping the mask overnight, but learning when and where it’s safe to be unapologetically YOU.

Because the truth is, you were never broken—society just didn’t make space for you. And now? It’s time to take up that space. 🌿✨

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Tuesday, March 18, 2025

More Adults Are Wondering: “Could I Be Autistic?” Here’s What You Need to Know 🧩🧠

More Adults Are Wondering: “Could I Be Autistic?” Here’s What You Need to Know 🧩🧠 Autism isn’t just a childhood diagnosis—more adults are now questioning whether they might be on the spectrum. Natasha Nelson, a 35-year-old entrepreneur from Georgia, is one of them. After years of feeling out of sync with social norms, she was diagnosed with autism shortly after her youngest daughter received the same diagnosis. “If your life has always felt chaotic and you’re just surviving, what do you have to lose?” Nelson says, encouraging others to seek answers.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by challenges with social communication, repetitive behaviors, and intense focus on specific interests. While it’s often diagnosed in childhood, many adults are now recognizing these traits in themselves, often after their children are diagnosed or through social media awareness. A 2023 study in *JAMA Network Open* revealed a staggering 452% increase in autism diagnoses among adults aged 26 to 34 over the past decade.

For some, autism symptoms go unnoticed until adulthood, when new social or professional demands highlight their struggles. Others may have learned to “mask” their behaviors, hiding traits like difficulty with eye contact or a need for rigid routines. Whitney Ence, a psychologist at UCSF, explains, “Adults have learned to compensate over time. They might think, ‘I can’t display that in public, so I do it in private.’”

But diagnosing autism in adults isn’t straightforward. Symptoms often overlap with conditions like ADHD or OCD, and there’s a shortage of specialists trained to work with adults. Dr. Arthur Westover, a psychiatrist specializing in autism, emphasizes that while many people enjoy routines or deep dives into niche topics, autism involves significant impairment in daily life. “It goes deeper than just liking structure,” he says.

Russell Lehmann, a 34-year-old motivational speaker, has lived with autism for over 20 years. For him, routines are both a comfort and a burden. “Every night, I go to bed knowing I have to do a routine I don’t like just to function,” he shares. His story highlights the complex reality of living with autism as an adult.

If you suspect you might be autistic, experts recommend starting with your primary care physician for a referral to a psychiatrist or psychologist. Diagnosis often involves interviews with family or friends who knew you as a child, as well as standardized tests. However, the process can be costly and time-consuming. Nelson’s diagnosis took three years and cost over $3,000 out-of-pocket.

The growing awareness of adult autism is a step forward, but there’s still much work to be done in providing accessible resources and support. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t quite fit in, it might be worth exploring—because understanding yourself is always worth it.

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Monday, March 17, 2025

Dasha's Oven in Marikina: Lasagna is a Must-Try! 🍝

Dasha's Oven in Marikina: Lasagna is a Must-Try! 🍝 I had the pleasure of visiting Dasha's Oven in Marikina, and I can confidently say it’s a hidden gem for comfort food lovers. While I ordered both the tapsilog and lasagna, it was the lasagna that completely stole the show!

The layers of cheesy, creamy goodness combined with perfectly seasoned meat and al dente pasta created a flavor explosion that had me savoring every bite. It's not just delicious; it's budget-friendly too, making it a win-win for those looking for quality at an affordable price.

The tapsilog was also a solid choice—tender beef tapa paired with garlic rice and a perfectly fried egg. It was comforting and satisfying, exactly what you'd expect from a classic Filipino breakfast. But let me tell you, missing out on their lasagna would be a culinary crime! It's become one of my favorite quick grabs in Marikina, perfect for a filling yet flavorful meal.

What I truly love about Dasha's Oven is the balance they strike between affordability and taste. The portions are generous, and the quality is impressive, making it a go-to spot for both casual dining and takeout. The warm, cozy ambiance of the restaurant adds to the experience, making every visit feel special.

If you're in Marikina and craving something hearty and delicious, Dasha's Oven should definitely be on your list. Trust me, the lasagna is a game-changer! 🍽️

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Wednesday, March 5, 2025

Autism and Eating Disorders: The Connection You Need to Know! 🍽️

Autism and Eating Disorders: The Connection You Need to Know! 🍽️ Did you know that children with autism spectrum disorder are more likely to have eating difficulties? They might refuse food, fixate on certain foods, or even restrict their intake.

Autism is also connected to eating disorders like anorexia nervosa and avoidant-restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), which is an extreme form of picky eating.

For those with both autism and an eating disorder, sensory issues around food are often the root cause, rather than body image concerns. These challenges can lead to health issues like nutrient deficiencies and dental caries.

Dr. Jennifer Seidenberg from Ochsner LSU Health has observed a strong link between autism and eating disorders. She mentions that many autistic boys develop obsessive behaviors around eating, making it difficult to treat their conditions.

Families with autistic children, especially those with selective eating habits, should work closely with pediatricians and explore cognitive behavioral methods to manage these challenges effectively.

It’s crucial to foster a supportive environment for these children, focusing on understanding their unique needs and providing appropriate care. Together, we can help them lead healthier, happier lives. 🍽️💙

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Transforming the Perception of Neurodiversity: UB's Inclusive Club 💡

Transforming the Perception of Neurodiversity: UB's Inclusive Club 💡 In recent years, the concept of neurodiversity has been gaining significant traction online, promoting the idea that neurological differences, such as autism and ADHD, are simply variations in human wiring and not flaws.

The Accessibility Resources office at UB has embraced this perspective and initiated the Neurodivergent Affinity Group to provide a supportive community for neurodivergent students. Unfortunately, despite the noble intention, attendance has been disappointingly low.

The Neurodivergent Affinity Group was founded by Hannah Premo, the assistant director of programming for Accessibility Resources. Inspired by a conference she attended in July 2024, Premo partnered with the Center for Excellence in Writing, and the club received official sanction last semester.

Yet, even with designated event planning positions and regular activities like body-doubling sessions and Hot Beverage Hour, the group's turnout hasn't met expectations.

Body-doubling, a practice particularly beneficial for students with ADHD, involves a peer mentor who helps students stay focused and complete tasks. On Fridays, the Hot Beverage Hour offers coffee, tea, and snacks to help students unwind from their hectic week.

Despite these thoughtful initiatives, the stigma surrounding being neurodivergent seems to keep many students away.

Premo acknowledges that revealing a hidden disability can be daunting and is often fraught with misconceptions about permanent records and potential discrimination. This is especially true for international students who might face deeply ingrained cultural stigmas about disabilities.

Premo’s commitment to creating a just and inclusive community is unwavering, as she continues to balance her role as a staff member while ensuring students feel empowered to lead and participate in the group.

The Neurodivergent Affinity Group is more than just a club; it's a platform for fostering connections, combating isolation, and providing justice for students with disabilities. With ongoing efforts, there's hope that attendance will grow, and the community will flourish.

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Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Keanu Reeves Drops Bombshell: No More John Wick! 🎬💥

Keanu Reeves Drops Bombshell: No More John Wick! 🎬💥 Keanu Reeves has just thrown cold water on the hopes of a fifth John Wick movie with a definitive two-word answer: "He's dead." That's right, folks, our beloved assassin's tale ended with John Wick: Chapter 4.

In an interview with ExtraTV, Reeves made it clear: "You know, the character's dead. He died in John Wick: Chapter 4." While Hollywood is known for reviving dead characters, Reeves confirmed there aren't any plans for now.

This revelation came while Reeves was discussing his new docuseries, Visionaries, which focuses on various inventors and highlights his love for motorcycles. Although he emphasized to IGN that "This is not a motorcycle show," fans can't help but notice his passion.

But don't despair just yet, Wick fans! Keanu Reeves will still grace the screen as John Wick in the upcoming spinoff movie, Ballerina, starring Ana de Armas. The film will see Wick meeting Eve (played by de Armas) in a timeline before John Wick 4.

So, while the original saga may have concluded, the universe of John Wick continues to expand.

For now, though, it seems Keanu is ready to move on to other projects and passions. Could this be the end of an era? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure: John Wick's legacy will live on in the hearts of fans.

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Tuesday, February 18, 2025

The apple doesn’t fall far from the angry tree 🍎

The apple doesn’t fall far from the angry tree 🍎

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Panic Attack Survival 101: Binge Eating Edition 🥚

Panic Attack Survival 101: Binge Eating Edition 🥚

When life gives you lemons, eat them all.

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Monday, February 17, 2025

Esting's Bellychon in Marikina: A Mouthwatering Experience 🍽️🥂

Esting's Bellychon in Marikina: A Mouthwatering Experience 🍽️🥂 I recently had the pleasure of dining at Esting's Bellychon in Marikina, and it was an absolute delight!

I ordered the Kare-Kare Veggies with Lechon and extra rice, and I must say, the meal exceeded all my expectations. The lechon toppings were incredibly crispy, with the meat being exceptionally tender and soft. Even as someone who doesn't usually enjoy lechon, I was amazed at how it simply melted in my mouth, making it an instant favorite.

The Kare-Kare sauce was rich and flavorful, perfectly complementing the fresh, well-cooked veggies. The combination of the creamy sauce and the vibrant vegetables created a harmonious balance that left me craving more with every bite. The extra rice was the perfect addition, soaking up the delicious sauce and tying the whole meal together.

What truly stood out to me was the attention to detail and the quality of the ingredients used. Each element of the dish was prepared with care, resulting in a meal that was both satisfying and memorable. The friendly and attentive staff at Esting's Bellychon also contributed to the overall positive experience, making me feel welcome and well-cared for.

In conclusion, Esting's Bellychon in Marikina is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in a mouthwatering meal. The Kare-Kare Veggies with Lechon is a standout dish that showcases the restaurant's dedication to quality and flavor. I highly recommend giving it a try, you won't be disappointed!

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Campfire Burgers & More in Marikina City: A Flavorful Feast 🍝🍧🧅

Campfire Burgers & More in Marikina City: A Flavorful Feast 🍝🍧🧅 I recently had the pleasure of dining at Campfire Burgers & More in Marikina City, and it was an experience to remember!

The Alfredo pasta was a creamy delight, perfectly cooked with just the right amount of sauce that clung to every strand of pasta.

The creamy tomato pasta was equally impressive, offering a rich and tangy flavor that balanced beautifully with the herbs and spices.

The onion rings were crispy and golden, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite. They were well-seasoned and not overly greasy, making them the perfect appetizer to start the meal.

But the true highlight of my visit was the fried wicked Oreos with vanilla ice cream on top. The contrast of the warm, crispy coating and the cool, creamy ice cream was heavenly. However, be warned, the Oreos are quite sweet, so they may not be for everyone.

Overall, Campfire Burgers & More delivered an excellent dining experience with its diverse menu and delightful flavors. The atmosphere was cozy, and the staff were friendly and attentive, making it a place worth visiting again. If you're in Marikina City and looking for a satisfying meal, this place is definitely worth a try!

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