Brian&Bela

BY BRIAN SALVADOR

Amostunexpectedbl

Coming into law sch would be putting my told to already apol andfamilyasIwould to put 110% of my t just to survive. True throughtheinterview beingacceptedinAL eat, sleep, and study to forego either of the first 2) W the sacrifices I had to make and someonewhohasbeen“NGSB”,Id forthelifemeexpectthat,4yearsl would be writing this as someone girlfriend as wonderful, kind, c loving,andbeautifulasher would say “Just Do it” Don’t listen to other people when they say, “Don’t date our blockmate,” or “She’ll just be a distraction.” Asking Kat to be my girlfriend has been the bestthingthat’shappenedtome.Iwouldn’t want you to miss out on that opportunity, especiallyifitwouldturnouttobethebest decisionforyoutoo.

It started as a friendship formed by an extracurricular necessity (being in 2 different departments for OrSem and Career Fair) which turned into a friendship formed by an actual necessity (Zoom arals during the hardest sem in law school) which then turned into a courtship and, finally, a loving relationship built on support and understanding.

That is why I thank God every single chance I get for giving me a most unexpected blessing. I would not have beenabletosurvivethepast2andahalf yearsifitwerenotforherlove,care,and support.

I came into law school thinking that I had already given up my chances of finding my dream girl due to the sacrifices that law school entailed but little did I know that she was actually waiting for me in law school. So what I would want to impart is just let go and let God. You may not understand His timing,butyouhavetobelievethatitis andwillalwaysbeperfect.

Hunting for a last minute place to celebrate Valentine's? Or perhaps just looking for a good place to celebrate the season? Look no further! The Palladium has taken the liberty of compiling a list of recommended restaurants as well as places to get a drink when it gets to wine o ' clock.

So what are you waiting for! Grab your +1, and don't forget your appetite!

Cafe Aurora

Starting off the list with the hotly anticipated Cafe Aurora, this restaurant is located conveniently close to campus, headed by renowned chefs Nicco Santos and Quenee Vilar, of Your Local and Hey Handsome fame. Getting its namesake from the mother of Nilo Divina, of DivinaLaw fame, who helped to establish the eatery, enterprising eaters will step into a modern and sleek space offering delightful twists on classic asian dishes. Look forward to twists on classic dishes Beef Rendang, Pomelo Salad and Salmon Donburi. Asian fusion is the name of the game, and the best part? They're opening just in time for Valentine's. Specifically on the 14th for lunch service. What are you waiting for? This is one opening the local food scene is eagerly looking forward to.

12/10

8Rockwell,G/FLopez Drive,RockwellCenter, MakatiCity

Instagram:@twelvetenph

Ever since it's indefinite closing in 2020 due to the pandemic, many patrons have been left longing for 12/10's expert approach to modern izakaya. Luckily, and almost serendipitously, 12/10 re-opened just last October, finding its new home in 8 Rockwell of all places; featuring the same fan favorites patrons remember like the so so buttery uni toast, and sinful foie onigiri on its expertly curated omakase menu. With an already established following, booking a table is sure to be tricky, but who knows, you just might get lucky!

Burnt Bean

Many a meat lover was left devastated when Holy Smokes BBQ announced their closure just last year, stating that they would be shifting to a new concept in the near future. That new concept turned out to be Burnt Bean, a delightful little eatery leveraging the team's expertise in grilled meats, cooked to perfection. Offering a casual but modern space for those making the trek to BGC, patrons can expect to see old favorites like 48 hour beef ribs and roasted brocolli salad along with new dishes such as the oh so delicous potato pave, orange chicken and compressed watermelon salad.

Flo All Day Drinking

Manila

Instagram: @floalldaydrinking

Thirsty for a tipple at 8am? We don't judge and neither do the proprietors at Flo All Day Drinking. Located suspiciously close to (right beside!) crowd favorite burger joint Hungry Homies, this fresh, all day drinking concept opened by Laureen Uy and Miggy Cruz offers both classic and unconventional coffees and cocktails. As they're open from 8am all the way to midnight, patrons can take their time sipping on one (or two) of Flo's signature drinks such as coffee martinis, Cuba libres and even cereal milk lattes.

Craft

Located deep in Broadway Avenue in Quezon City is a humble little coffee shop called Craft. Unbeknownst to many, as night falls, Craft turns into Recraft, with the second floor of the same establishment opening up to those seeking a nightcap. Recraft offers patrons a plethora of drink options including bottled brews, bespoke cocktails (just let them know your preferred flavor notes and watch the magic happen!), and their own signature cocktails. Definitely do not miss out on this relatively underrated gem if you're looking for a quiet, cozy space to grab a drink and unwind.

G/FPacificStar Building,Sen Gil PuyatAvenuecorner MakatiAvenue, MakatiCity Instagram: @cafeauroraph

Unit204,UpperGround Floor,C2BldgBonifacio HighStreetCentral, Taguig,1635MetroManila Instagram:@burntbeanph

66 Broadway Ave, New Manila, Quezon City, Metro Manila Instagram: @recraft.bar