IKIMASHO!!! The Emancipation of Emiri

Just watched the recent Miss Universe pageant and there's a slight buzz going around regarding Miss Japan's costume. I wanted to see what's with all the commotion... I watched, I looked and there is nothing wrong with the costume & its perfectly fine! I know some would agree and some will definitely roll their eyes. I say STOP right there I'M NOT FINISHED! Yes its a costume it might not be the traditional one that were expecting but its still shows (no Pun intended) Japanese elements in it. Some may say that its too vulgar and its not what Japanese culture is about also some say its just fine. Its a pageant what do you expect? Each contestant is vying for attention and impact of some sort. They decided to break free from the traditional look and went with a more contemporary one to get that.

This is what I think:

The conservative side of me says they should have picked a more traditional costume, but how is it going to get noticed?

The contemporary side says it nice, modern and it has impact, it could have been just a tad longer to be just right.

There might be a middle ground some where here. But again you can't make everybody agree with your opinion and everybody has their 2 cents about something.

It really boils down to your culture and orientation on how you would react this. What say you?






















Blogger's note: Just a quick break from what this blog is intended. I'm going to throw in entries like this from time to time. Think of it as "umeboshi" for your mind!

IKIMASHO!!! SANGO! : The Master Burger

A Burger is a Burger is a Burger! They say once you tried one, you’ve tried them all but I beg to differ with regards to my regular haunt…

A couple of years or so ago, I came across this resto by accident because I was craving for something Japanese and was on a lookout for the Japanese restaurant my family goes to when I was a kid. I tried to remember where it was and had trodden the full length of the Creek Side area along Amorsolo St. Finally upon finding the place, I was surprised and somewhat disappointed to see that it was already occupied by another restaurant. Ogling at the signage that had letters that read out, “S-A-N-G-O: The Burger Master” not associating it with Japanese food at all. Little did I know that it was a Japanese restaurant that had a Japanese “take” on burgers. The place and concept reminded me of a joint in Kyoto called MOS burger, though it was good but the servings were a tad small and it was crazy expensive. I was a bit skeptical to try this new resto due to my past experience but because I was hungry from all the walking, I gave in and decided to take a chance.

Once you enter, the ambiance feels Japanezy. You're greeted with the usual loud "IRRASHAIMASE!" usually heared at japanese establishments. It's very clean and sanitized that has a homey feel to it. The TV plays non-stop japanese shows, MTVs and anime. (I think I saw Naruto playing and a Gackt MTV). Even the toilet is japanese ...it looks like your going to operate Voltes V or a Gundam Unit if you dare use it. TEE HEE HEE! Then there's a collection of manga and magazines to read as well if that's your thing.

Keeping true to the eccentric thinking of the Japanese, imagine your usual Japanese fare turned into a burger. Turn your regular Tonkatsu to a Tonkatsu burger, Chicken teriyaki to a Chicken teriyaki burger, and Yakinku into a Yakinuku rice burger, just to give you a sample of their repertoire. I guess that’s where the “Red-haired-clown-in-the-yellow-jump-suit” knocked off that idea awhile back. TEE HEE HEE!!!

Master Double Cheeseburger @ 195

Chicken Burger @ 95

Fries - Regular @ 55 and Large @ 75

Their showcase and bestseller is the Double Master Burger with cheese. Just imagine this addictive slice of heaven: Two seasoned beef patties, cheese, tomatoes et al. Decked on a soft bun and smothered with special sauce resembling the consistency of a sloppy Joe. Take a monster bite out of that and you’ll discover a Zen-like harmony of flavors revolving inside your mouth. Hmmmm. And if your burger feels lonely, they have fries as well…fries as fat as Hulk’s fingers. It was met with Koharu’s approval, who is our resident french fry connoisseur. As far as the price is concerned, it’s reasonable for the size and quality you’re getting.

So, if you happen to be near Creekside in Amorsolo St. in Makati and you have a craving for something familiar with a twist. I suggest you take a peek at that restaurant located between the establishments’ Pharaoh’s and another Japanese resto to find your piece of nirvana in a bun.

PS: They now deliver for a minumum order: Alabang 771-2201, Ortigas 636-1991/ 637-5506, Makati Creekside 830-0391/ 889-3740, Makati 830-0391/ 819-3740