Coffee at Chateau 1771

Earlier, Chief and I caught up with Bingo and Mila Pantaleon at Greenbelt 5. Manny Gabutina and his son, Jag, dropped us off at Greenbelt where Chief and I could have dinner. Actually, we were just tamad to cook and prepare food at home. We still had paksiw na lechon at home. But really, just tamad. Hehehe. And besides, it was a couple of days before Christmas eve and I felt tonight was the rare night Chief and I would have together this season as reunions lie ahead for the next few days.

We ended up at Le Maison in Greenbelt 5. It was a little crowded. And the “macho chops” I ordered had run out. Huh? Albert, the waiter explained that the last piece had been ordered. Huh? He gave a recommendation but I opted for calamari (friend squid). It was little too "cracked" meaning a little too breaded... that it had sharp corners and service from the corner where we sat a little to slow. But still a good place to dine. Anyway, am not a food critic. This was our second time here. Our first dining experience was last August... my birthday.

Into our dinner, we both get text messages from Bingo and Mila… asking if we were free for coffee? That was perfect timing and advised them that we were just in Le Maison having dinner. Around 9pm, both were standing in front of us.

It was great to see good friends again!

We moved to Chateau 1771 for coffee and desserts. Mila noticed that I quickly talked to Hazel, the receptionist. I actually just mentioned to her that EON had it’s Christmas party at this restaurant only last Friday and she said that she remembered me. Actually, just PR. Chateau 1771 in Greenbelt 5 and is open until 11 p.m. for dinner on Fridays and Saturdays. For inquiries, ask for Hazel but dont mention my name. You can call 729-9760 or 0917-862-6467. One day soon, I would like to taste their grilled king prawns. Photos from www.3mddigitalsolutions.com/chateau


Mila proudly showed off pictures from Unilab’s anniversary “Warrior” event. Both she and Bingo were wearing Indonesian inspired costumes. Both shared kuwentos about the parade that showcased its heritage and growth. Symbolic items like the first cash register, the first Unilab product package, etc. was passed on to the current leaders of the company.

It quickly brought back memories of how our own friendship grew since those days back in Saigon, when Chief was with McCann Erickson Vietnam and Bingo was Marketing Director of United Pharma.

Today, we hope to visit them in Jakarta next year but for now, also hope to catch up with Maribel Regino.

After coffee, Chief and I walked home while both rushed to Rockwell for last minute midnight shopping.