By now, most of the Philippine blogosphere is bustling with excitement about MUJI opening its first branch at Bonifacio High Street. When it was confirmed (confeermed!) by popular blogger chuvaness, everyone was either “OMG MUJI’S COMING HERE!” or “What the hell is Muji?”

Japanese chain Muji is favored for its distinctive minimalist look and reasonably priced goods. Its real name, Mujirushi Ry?hin, translates to No Brand Quality Goods. It’s a brand that espouses a no-brand policy. Funny how this non-brand has a loyal following that some brands surely envy. Fans have a good reason to love Muji. From clothes, to housewares, food, gift items and stationery supplies, their merchandise is attractive, is of good quality and is reasonably priced.
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Sometimes I just want to go and post things like, “SAIZEN. DAISO. GO. NOW.” But then, I know you guys will just want to go and kill me so I should offer more info. Well, the news is, Daiso, that Japanese chain of 100 yen stores has finally opened a store in Manila. Locally going by the name of Saizen, it’s the same Daiso chain you may have visited in Japan, Singapore and Hongkong. Someone already beat them to the trademark Daiso here, hence the need to go by a different name but hey, it’s the same gigantic wallet blackhole we’ve all gotten to know and love.

Personally, I haven’t been there so I’m inviting you to visit magnetic-rose’s shop report. All her tales (THEY HAVE BENTO STUFF!) and photos have me drooling so you’ll probably see me over at their maiden store at the 3/F Ortigas Wing of Robinsons Galleria this weekend. So while I’m looking forward to Saturday, my wallet and credit card (they accept CCs!) are already weeping.

Red is the color for February. It’s also the color of this year’s Winter seasonal release, the Royce Gianduja Nama Chocolate. Gianduja mixes together chocolate and hazelnut paste—think Ferrero Rocher and Nutella.

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In this fast-paced era where everything is mass-produced and done with machines and assembly lines, it’s refreshing to encounter products that are still made lovingly and painstakingly by hand. That’s why I was so excited about getting the chance to try Bonbons Barnier.

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