A taste of New York

CEBU, Philippines- It's New York on a plate, this special offering that runs from Sept. 16 to November 30 at TGI Fridays. The popular American restaurant, whose local branch is at Ayala Center Cebu, pays tribute to the bustling American city that gave birth to some of the world's delicious eats - with six lip-smacking dishes that made New York famous. And these are exactly the highlights of the restaurant's "Taste of New York" special.

Bronx Crispy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs.

The Bronx is home to New York's real "Little Italy," where quite a number of authentic Italian 'ristorantes', pastry shops and pizzerias have taken root. Meatballs are proof to the area's strong Italian influence. Bronx Crispy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs consist of succulent meatballs stuffed with mozzarella and served with marinara sauce, marinated tomatoes and parmesan crisps.

Madison Hotdog.

Most New York visitors cannot resist the urge to try a local favorite - hotdogs! TGI Friday takes the signature American street food to gourmet level with the Madison Hotdog, juicy char-grilled Andouille sausage in herb bun topped with pickled cucumber and drizzled with a classic combination of mustard and mayonnaise.

Big Apple Burger.

New York is certainly a serious burger center, what with its 101 variations of this popular fast food, ranging from the classic to the most decadent. The Big Apple Burger is a gastronomic delight - flame-grilled premium beef patty layered with sautéed onions, gruyere cheese, grilled pancetta and apple mustard, served with fries.

Queens Almond-Crusted Tilapia and Jalapeno Shrimp.

The vibrant food scene of New York's Queens District is a different kind of gustatory experience. It's a gathering of the tastes and flavors of ethnic cuisines from around the world. The borough inspires TGI Friday to recreate a dish - the exquisite Queens Almond-Crusted Tilapia and Jalapeno Shrimp, which brings together the lovely fresh flavors of tilapia and sautéed Cajun shrimps with rice pilaf and lemon cream sauce.

Manhattan Sausage Stuffed Chicken.

With its eclectic mix of restaurants, one day is not enough to sample the many dishes that the Manhattan area has to offer. But the Manhattan Sausage Stuffed Chicken is a good start. It's plump and juicy chicken breasts stuffed with Italian sausages and cheese, served with rice pilaf and pesto cream. 

 Broadway Peanut Butter Jelly Milkshake.

New Yorkers love milkshakes, and who does not? And here's the thick and creamy goodness of Broadway Peanut Butter Jelly Milkshake, a rich concoction of peanut butter blended with vanilla ice cream on a layer of blueberry jelly, finished off with whipped cream and served with peanut butter jelly crust.

While the "Taste of New York" at TGI Fridays is ongoing, all the other American favorites at the restaurant are there, too - such as the signature burgers, juicy steaks, and Jack Daniel Grill specialties, as well as pastas, salads, and desserts.