The Good Life: Editors’ Picks (September 29 – October 3, 2025)
In every The Good Life: Editors’ Picks column, we round up our editors’ favorites—restaurants, cocktails, experiences, exhibits, and everything in between. Here is our latest list.
Txoko Asador
My family has shared a number of celebratory meals at Txoko Asador over the years.
Earlier this week we visited yet again, and while we enjoyed everything we had, I can’t stop thinking about two dishes in particular.
First is the paella that arrived with a hefty bone shank split in two revealing rich, velvety bone marrow that’s slicked onto the rice with aioli and mixed with the soccarat, i.e., the crispy layer that forms at the bottom of the pan, adding extra crunch. Topped with slices of our favorite iberico secreto, it was a standout.
The other was the Rubia Gallega, the 30-day-dry-aged marbled steak with the bone intact, from Galicia in Northern Spain. Seared simply, then fired in the Josper oven and sprinkled with salt, it’s smoky, nutty, juicy.
We’ve already made a reservation for our next visit. – Yvette Fernandez
Txoko Asador, 102 Esteban Street, Legazpi Village. +63 956 047 3224 or email [email protected]
Riverstone Bench by Destonos
Sitting—pun intended—at the intersection of sculpture and furniture, the Riverstone Bench from Destonos is an object that feels discovered as much as it is designed. Formed from volcanic ash and resin, the bench’s smooth, organic lines stand in stark contrast to the violent forces that produced its raw material.
For years, founder Shirley Dy supplied to well-known, international brands with various home accessories made from the volcanic ash that ravaged her home province of Tarlac. With Destonos, she channels the same resource into furniture, now putting her name on each piece as its chief designer. The Riverstone Bench is only one of several pieces by Dy; there are wall mouldings, bookends, and end tables all using the same material and all guaranteed to be conversation starters.
What makes the Riverstone Bench especially compelling is its mix of sustainability and design. Volcanic ash, once seen only as waste, is repurposed here into something lasting and practical. The bench is substantial yet versatile in scale—equally at home as a low coffee table or seating. Its indoor–outdoor durability and organic form make it both functional and beautiful, which I would say is a rare combination in furniture born from reclaimed material. – Kimberly Rocha-Delgado
Website: destonos.com
Élan by the Bay
I recently attended a triple birthday celebration at Manila’s newest luxuryLuxuryA lifestyle defined by exceptional quality, craftsmanship, exclusivity, and sophistication, encompassing the finest products, services, and experiences that represent the highest standards of refinement and excellence.Go to Luxury Glossary event space, Élan by the Bay, and it felt like stepping into someone’s beautifully designed private beachfront home. Tucked along the edge of Manila Bay in Parañaque, the venue is unlike anything I’ve seen. Located in the heart of the city, the space blends modern architecture with a warm, intimate atmosphere that immediately makes guests feel at ease.
Designed with the vision of renowned architect Ed Calma, Élan was originally imagined as a private residence, and that intention is still very much alive in its layout and ambiance. From the moment I walked through the doors, I was surrounded by thoughtful design elements such as elegant interiors, natural light, and a peaceful flow between indoor and outdoor spaces that made the whole event feel both grand and personal.
What stood out most were the art pieces throughout the venue, all part of the owner’s personal collection. These added a layer of personality and creativity that made the space feel truly unique.
With several stylish areas like the Main Hall, Garden, Formal Dining, four inviting lounges, and two guest suites, Élan can host events for up to 250 guests without ever feeling impersonal. It’s a rare blend of sophistication and soul, and I can’t wait to return! – Alicia Colby-Sy
88 Clinton Avenue, Paranaque, Philippines, elanbythebay.com