Sleepy Mom's Blog

Culinary Creations by Rising Negrense Chefs - Two Negrense talents wowed the crowd and stole the spotlight during the media launch of Himbon: The 39th Negros Trade Fair last Aug 26, 2025—and their names are worth remembering. Their gastronomic menu was just a taste of what’s possible: innovative, world-class, and proudly Negrense! 

Chef Cara Davis (Halong, Makati) – trained in Michelin-starred kitchens from New York to San Sebastián, she now fuses bold Asian flavors with her Mexican culinary background. 

Think uni toast with foie gras and crab aligue pave — just some of the inventive dishes she crafted, alongside many other culinary creations. 

Chef Luis Locsin (private dining star) – CIA-trained, with global stints from Jean Georges NYC to Bali, he now curates private dining. His charcuterie spread at the launch featured Negros blue cheese, Don Papa rum pâté. Proudly Negrense, globally trained. 

Pâté en croute, and Casa del Formaggio Stracciatella, olive oil, and confit tomatoes

This year, the Negros Trade Fair makes its historic debut at SM Aura—and it’s bringing with it the flavors, fashion, and flair of Negrense heritage. Here are the main reasons of must-experiences for foodies, fashionistas, and lifestyle lovers you don’t want to miss:

#1 Heritage Weaves, Modern Fashion & Accessories 

Handwoven Hablon, hand-smocked dresses, and chic tropical fibers reimagined for today’s wardrobe. Paired with striking local jewelry and artisanal accessories, these pieces prove heritage and modernity can walk the runway together.

#2 Handcrafted Home Finds 

From pandan to bamboo to buri—Negrense artisans transform natural fibers into elegant accents for your home. Discover design-forward décor and furnishings that bring timeless Negros craftsmanship into modern living spaces.

#3 Artisan Sweet & Savory & Pasalubong 

Stock up on flavors that define Negros: – From Mumshies’ delicacies to Virgie’s home-made mango tarts and pastries, plus savory favorites like the Ereneta-Manaloto’s bottled Chorizo de Bacolod and a lot more— Sweet or savory, these iconic bites are made for gifting—or for keeping all to yourself.

Experience More at HIMBON

Beyond shopping, HIMBON is a celebration of Negrense culture. Sip on Don Papa rum and locally crafted wines as live acoustic music fills the air, bringing the warmth of Negros hospitality right to the city. Let the fair inspire your next adventure with showcases of pristine beaches, heritage haciendas, and food tours—each one an invitation to experience Negros firsthand. And of course, every artisan booth and styled corner is a story waiting for your feed, so don’t forget to capture your #HimbonMoments along the way.

At its core, HIMBON means “to gather.” And this fair is exactly that—a gathering of food, fashion, and heritage that celebrates both tradition and modern creativity.

●Save the Date: Sept 23–28 | SMX Convention Center, SM Aura

●Taste. Shop. Celebrate. Experience Negros like never before.

From global bites and steaming hot pot to bold mural backdrops and barkada game nights, this East-side hub is built for every kind of hangout.

Foodies, art lovers, and gamers—this new hangout spot in the EAST has something for every squad.

From Neapolitan pizza and Okinawan steak to billiards showdowns and art-filled corners, the new East Wing at SM City East Ortigas is more than just a foodie playground—it’s a vibrant hangout spot. Whether you’re a foodie chasing global flavors, an art enthusiast hunting for Instagram-worthy backdrops, or gamers up for friendly matches at the Game Park, this East-side destination brings together passions in one stylish space. 

For the Art Squads: The Glow-Up by Kiefsix

Adding to the cool factor? Manila-based illustrator and creative director Kiefsix (Kiefer Indiongco) transformed blank walls into massive, colorful murals. His basketball-inspired, bold designs turn the East Wing into an open gallery, making it as much an art crawl as a hangout hub. And with EYO, a fun, sun-inspired character also designed by Kiefsix, visitors get a playful guide through the space-always selfie-ready and Insta-friendly. 

For the Foodies: A Passport of Flavors

The East Wing lineup reads like a culinary world tour: Paris Baguette – Bakery brand from South Korea serving pastries and cakes. Hoshino Coffee – Signature hand-dripped coffee and soufflé pancakes from Japan. Du Hsiao Yueh – Taiwan’s iconic Dan Zai noodles. Jiangnan Hot Pot and Grill – Authentic Chinese broths, meats, and sauces made for sharing. Rossopomodoro – Neapolitan pizza and pasta straight from Italy. Yappari Steak – Black Angus beef grilled on lava stones from Mount Fuji in Okinawa, Japan. Nanyang – Singaporean staples like laksa and kaya toast. Eat Pizza – Giant K-style pizza slices made for photos. Kenangan Coffee & Zus Coffee – Bold brews from Indonesia and Malaysia. BEBANG’s Halo-Halo – Fifteen playful takes on the Filipino classic. And that’s not the full spread—you’ll also find crowd-pleasers like Sumo Niku, Pancake House, Mesa, French Baker, Super Bowl of China, Yummy Mala Pot, Yococo, Coco Fresh, Smashing Lemon, NYFD Fries, Gang Gang Chicken, and more. Basically, it’s your foodie passport without ever leaving Pasig City. 

For the Gamers: Chill + Play at the Game Park 

If your squad is equal parts foodie and gamer, the East Wing Foodcourt + Game Park is your sweet spot. After fiery Thai plates from Thaiwadee, ramen bowls from Buchiton, or K-cravings from Seoul Yummy, head to the Game Park to unwind with billiards, darts, or karaoke. It’s the ultimate fusion of dining and play—a barkada bonding formula that works every time. And yes, other Food court staples also join the party: Sizzling Plate, Dingers, TEXMEX, Hey Fried Rice, Lechon Belly Kitchen, Potato Corner, Kohi Manju, Barcada and more. 

Why It’s the Spot for Every Squad

Here’s the thing: the East Wing isn’t just about food—it’s about making memories across passions. Coffee runs, mural selfies, barkada hotpot nights, or game-time showdowns—it’s the kind of place that adapts to your vibe. And with EYO around to brighten every visit, the East Wing becomes the go-to hub for every squad in the East.

Ready to Hangout Here? Snap your mural selfies, discover your next foodie obsession, hit your game streak, and let EYO show you the brighter side of the East.

SM City East Ortigas – East WingFollow along: #HangoutHereAtSMEast | #HangoutWithEYO