It's been ages since my last update! I can't believe we're less than 6 months away from the big day. In the past months, I was quite preoccupied with so many career-related changes but I'm proud to say I haven't been totally neglecting my bridal duties since I've been spending most of my spare time looking for suppliers. Now, I'm happy to announce that Sam and I have decided to finally close the deal with our caterer, Al Shekinah Dishes Inc. (ASDI)
Months ago, JC of ASDI invited us for a food tasting at their main office. Since it was just a few blocks from where I hold my main clinic, I decided to drop by and see what they had to offer.
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| Image courtesy of Al Shekinah Dishes Inc. |
Months ago, JC of ASDI invited us for a food tasting at their main office. Since it was just a few blocks from where I hold my main clinic, I decided to drop by and see what they had to offer.
They had a portion of their office space transformed into a showroom so prospective clients will have an idea of their table set-up. What impressed me initially was the buffet area. I love how they laid frosted glass tiles together and lighted each table.
You can easily tell from the centerpiece that our table had a vintage theme. As for me, I prefer fresh flowers and probably several lighted candles for a more relaxed mood.
First thing on the menu was Pasta Pomodoro e Basilico (red sauce) and Linguine Carbonara (white sauce). I love that the red sauce had that familiar fresh taste of ripe tomatoes with a little bite of basil and garlic. It wasn't as sour or sweet as I expected which is better because we Pinoys love our pasta that way. The Linguine Carbonara was equally delicious with the white sauce having just the right tinge of salty and creamy taste. I'm actually torn between the two recipes that I requested JC to prepare both of them so guests will have the privilege to choose.
Next were the different entrees including Fish Fillet, which I'm not a fan of, but the Mango Mayo Dip that came with it made a huge difference. On the right is Grilled Herbed Chicken which I didn't like much nor hate so it's totally off the choices.
Now a taste of heaven started here with their Oriental Pork Stew (left) and Beef Pot Roast in Champignon Sauce (right). Both dishes had perfectly tender meat without being overcooked. The sauces were so flavorful that a small amount already gave each dish their signature taste.
As for the dessert buffet, they served Creme Puffs Eclair, Cheese Butterscotch, Jaded Buco, Creme Brullee, Choco Mallow Fudge and Mango Bars Petite. Of all those mentioned, the Creme Brullee is on top of my list followed by Creme Puffs Eclair and Mango Bars Petite. Jaded Buco, in case you're wondering, is their own version of Buko Pandan which is Sam's all-time favorite Pinoy dessert. Sad to say, it didn't quite taste the way I know Sam wants it, but I think I can pull a few strings to make it work.
Of course I tried every dish they prepared. That's what you're expected to do in a food tasting after all. Would you believe this plate plus a forkful of Linguine Carbonara already had me full and reaching for refreshments?
Now for the recap, 5 out of the 6 entrees were delicious, 2 of them being exceptional. As for the desserts, 3 tasted really great, the rest were just okay which I personally think is fine since we're only allowed to get 4 varieties with our chosen package. What impressed me even more was the variety of flavors they whipped up. I also like the very warm welcome that JC consistently made us feel. Finally, after months of contemplating and waiting for a good offer to surface, we finalized the deal with Al Shekinah Dishes Inc. after JC offered us 20% off our chosen package plus a lot of freebies. Price wise, ASDI's packages are very competitive that you won't think twice when they give you an offer.
