Jinx Macabenta

Ladies and Gentlemen, Rob Schneider… (Ooopss, Kidding!) finally dining at The Artist Chef. Jinx is based in Daly City, California---a very talented person, business oriented, and sometimes a clever artist. (Sniff sniff) He is also the son of the famous Greg Macabenta, former Advertising Icon of AMA Publicis way back then. Jinx and I met in 2002 at DDB Makati where we both worked together for SMART Communications and did a lot of projects for SMART Money to be specific. After a short period of time he went back to the US but we’re still in touch and we are still good friends up to now. We often chat with each other thru yahoo and I always make kulit about this business of mine for him to try. Then when he came home last February, he finally tried the intimate dinner.

The table setting waiting for the Macabenta Couple.

The Candles, Petals and Mood…

They are actually celebrating their 11th year anniversary as husband and wife.

With Jinx is his very charming wife Kathy who was already pregnant at that time. The name of their baby will be “VEGAS”. I asked him why Vegas? TRIVIA: They eloped in Vegas, hence the name.

And would you believe that they dined on the 14th? As in February 14. Good thing my boyfriend and I don’t celebrate valentine’s on the day itself. So talagang pinagbigyan kita Jinx! Lucky you :-)

My funny picture together with Jinx and Kathy.

Thanks Jinx for the tip! First ever tip since I started The Artist Chef

Gretchen Agdamag

Gretchen Agdamag and her boyfriend are both physicians at The UST Hospital. My fellow Thomasian.

Gretch and her boyfriend are both simple and meek people. We didn't have time to talk that much unlike other customers because I have an appointment after their dinner. But I'm glad to meet people like them who both manifest humility in their own little way.

The Artist Chef...behind the scene, food prep.

Yummy chocolate kisses and choco syrup plus my secret ingredients melting all together. The perfect match for fresh strawberries.

Aside from the dessert I prepared for Gretch and her boyfriend, they brought me a petite chocolate mousse and blueberry Cheesecake. Thanks a lot!!!

As usual in my photo opt there's always a version of with flash and without flash.

In Pursuit of Happiness

Of all the adages in life, this one is what I really hold on to..."Dream the impossible Dream." Yet you can't help but feel sad when you're still discontent. But dreaming is all about pursuing the things that will make you happy and satisfied. But I guess it will never happen. I'll just keep on guessing where I will be next time? In the meantime, I'll dream some more...

I used to cook different pasta recipes every time I celebrate my birthday at DDB. Despite the angst, politics, and all... DDB people remain to be the closest to my heart.

I also cooked for FCB creatives, and that was my last day at work. Unfortunately. This is one weird day when all of us were wearing something unlikely for an ordinary creative person.

The Gift

Jan jahjaran... Presenting The latest book of Jamie Oliver. My howe's birthday gift... Siye siye Reggie :-)

Of course I took some pics, and this one I'll call "The Jamie look"

And another one...

What if someday I get to meet Jamie? What is our common denominator? Butter!

I just can't resist this man...Whew! Jamie Oliver... I admire him so much for his good deeds and great talent. No wonder Great Britain is smitten with the Naked Chef :-)

Chicken with Rice (Djej w rizz)

Ingredients: (5-6 servings)
1 small chicken
2 cups of rice
1 cup of minced meat
Assorted raw nuts: cashew, chopped almonds, pine, pecan (1/2 cup of each)
2 tablespoons of butter
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
Salt, pepper (or seven spices)
1 celery stick, 2 bay leaves, 1 cinnamon stick, 1 small carrot, 1 small onion