Rice to Riches

By Cil B

The entire concept of Rice to Riches in New York has a theme of cutesy sarcasm, which in my opinion, a marketing genius. My eyes couldn't stop reading their eccentric signs posted all around the store. The most unconventional one that I like the most was the sign on the door that greets customers with this line: "No Skinny B*tches". I must say that the sign acts not only as a greeting but also a reminder that Rice to Riches is definitely not for those who are watching their waistlines.

My sister and the unconventional greeting

This place is devoted for those who simply appreciate a bowl of sweet yet fattening ingredients - milk, rice, sugar - and this marriage of flavors comes together to create the perfect rice pudding. The results are more than 20 flavors of rice pudding with a selection of 10 toppings. 

Some of the flavors

Some of the sassy signs they put up  

Comic book like inside the store

Another remarkable part of this place is their unique container. Puddings are served in a cute plastic container that comes with a lid and a flat spoon/scooper that resembles a shoehorn, both which u can keep afterward. In addition, they ensure that the rice pudding is served at the perfect temperature for the weather. My first visit to this place was in the winter four years ago and I recalled that they served their rice puddings warm. But this time I came in summer and they served the rice pudding with just a little chill.

The plastic container and the spoon

Caramel rice pudding (half eaten) + an extra portion of Graham crackers on the side

Since I was not a stranger to this place, I easily made my choice: Caramel rice pudding topped with Graham Crackers plus an extra portion of Graham Crackers on the side. And I must pronounce that this combination as the true bliss that knocks my sweet tooth. I'm thankful that I live faraway from this place; otherwise I might swing by so very often and probably end up with no waistline. 

Visit www.ricetoriches.com

Magnolia Bakery

By Cil B


I remembered It was one hot day in New York City. After having our family brunch at Rockefeller Center, we decided to make a stop at the popular Magnolia Bakery as seen on the movie, Sex and The City. It is located at 1240 Sixth Avenue on the corner of 49th street and 6th ave. 

Magnolia Bakery in Midtown

The first thing we saw when we stepped in was the long line. However, the combination of pastel colors used to decorate the bakery and the delicious smell of buttery cake wafting through the air gave me that calming feeling after a sweaty walk along 6th ave and helped convey a feel of a homely place. 

Being in a neighborhood of main plazas, commercials, and shopping malls, this Magnolia location is always packed with tourists and those work in the area

I was impressed by the decor and ambiance of the store

After a 15 min wait, we finally ordered half a dozen of cupcakes: 2 Chocolate, 2 Red Velvet, and 2 Carries.The Red Velvet was delectable. It was light and it had a cream cheese frosting that was smooth. My dad had the Chocolate and he said that it made a good snack after a long summer walk but sadly the taste was forgettable. 

The Carries, on the other hand, was unforgettable. They were amazing and the floral design on the cupcake was  too pretty to eat. Carrie cupcakes are vanilla cakes topped with pink vanilla buttercream frosting and sugar daisy, inspired by the character Carrie Bradshaw of Sex and the City. They were really fresh (out of the oven fresh), fluffy, light, melted in the mouth, just the right amount of sweetness, plus spectacular topping. Magnolia Bakery is definitely one of my favorite places in New York to go to when you crave for something sweet. I'd recommend it to anyone visiting NY to have a bite of Carrie. :). Please visit www.magnoliabakery.com.

Shop Chic on Bargain at Citygate Outlet, Hong Kong

By Cil B


Far before Disneyland Hong Kong was built, Hong Kong has been long known as the Paris of Asia. Needless to say, this place is quite as good a spot for shopping as Paris herself. You can hone your bargaining skills by shopping at the many exotic market stalls or indulge yourself with luxury shopping at major shopping malls like Pacific Place shopping center, one stop high-end department stores such as Lane Crawford, or designer stores like Hermes and Prada.

How about for those who seek something in between, bargained price on designer goods? 
Citygate Outlet (www.citygateoutlets.com.hk), which is located on Lantau Island is the place to go. This outlet features more than 80 international brands such as Burberry, Bally, Diane Von Furstenberg, Kate Spade and Coach with year-round discounts of 30% to 70%. 

The Facade of Citygate Outlets in Tung Chung

However, you should not expect to find the latest season collections because what these outlets carry are mostly items from past seasons and samples. Nevertheless, you won't have to worry about the quality and the variety they offer. Everything is a surprise! Take a peek on what I got from my shopping trip to this outlet: 

                

                            

Dainty dresses and skirt from DVF

Calvin Klein cardigan and jacket