I GREW up in the campus of the University of the Philippines. It was here where I learned to walk, talk, try to be cool and all those other silly things many of us go through. It was also here where my exposure to food was confined to the boundaries of the campus. There were many snacks that were delicious then and I have made efforts to duplicate them in my outlets.

The area II barbecue was such a great hit during the early '70s and so were the empanadas of the Home Economics Department of the University. I remember my pretty aunt, Lily Sison, who worked with the H.E. department then, would bring us delicious burgers whenever her work time ate from our time to picked up at the Ateneo.

Those were memorable dishes. The burgers were great when eaten hot otherwise it could give your mouth a cut from the crunch of its texture when eaten cold. The barbecue and empanadas I have been able to duplicate in my outlets. Back then, there was no nice and honest to goodness restaurant that served good food.

I love to go back to the campus and reminisce about all those times when all I had to worry about was passing my grades and find something to fill my constantly craving stomach. (I was always successful with the latter). Recently, I discovered a place that has a nice ambiance, prices are very reasonable, portions are generous and the food is quite good. Most of those who go here are University professors and the students from the various colleges around.

Chocolate Kiss has been in operation for a few years now. Owned by a good friend, the former Alma Apello, it has quite an interesting menu. I browsed over the items offered and decided to try the fresh lumpia, the Chicken and Pork adobo flakes and the filet of snapper with a nice teriyaki glaze. The lumpia was quite good.

I loved the fish. It was perfectly done and went well rested on a mound of vegetable rice. Portion was generous. I enjoyed the adobo flakes and most for it reminded me of how a dish like this can make a Pinoy palate feel right at home. It was delicious.

For dessert, we had two. I highly recommend the sour cream cheese cake which to me is the present holder of the best cheese cake within Metro Manila. I was supposed to take a bite but my date, Chef Rox Cailao (he is opening a beautiful restaurant called Chantrelle in a few days abangan!) could only look in awe at how after having three dishes, I could manage to like the others.

There are many places that are good ''pang estudyante.'' This is an exception. The dishes here can very well compete with the many restaurants all over the Metropolis. Check it out!

Happy eating!