Toby's Crib: Manila's HOTTEST San Lorenzo Place Hidden Gem!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into the gloriously chaotic world of Toby's Crib: Manila's HOTTEST San Lorenzo Place Hidden Gem!, or at least, that's what the brochure says. I’ve been to a few places, seen some things, and let me tell you, writing a review that's NOT another bland, corporate drone is harder than parallel parking in Manila traffic. Here we go…
First Impressions & Accessibility (or, the Saga of Finding the Entrance)
Okay, so, let's be real. "Hidden Gem" is code for "good luck finding the dang place." Seriously, my Grab driver circled San Lorenzo Place like a vulture looking for a snack. But hey, that's part of the adventure, right? Once you do find it (and finally, the lobby!), you get a serious dose of… well, it’s clean. And the folks at the front desk? Surprisingly chill. Kudos on the chill vibe - especially nice when you've been wrestling with Manila traffic all day, and the doorman is as cheerful as can be.
- Accessibility: Now, the crucial bit. Physically, it seems pretty accessible. Elevators, yay! But I didn't specifically scope out every nook and cranny with wheelchair users in mind. Someone with a mobility issue should call and ask… because I’ll be honest, I was too busy trying to figure out how to use the elevator. Internet access is pretty good, and they have free Wi-Fi. They seem to also have a bunch of options for internet access - but like, who uses LAN anymore unless you're a super-spy?
The Room: A Tale of Blackout Curtains and Mini-Bar Shenanigans
My room? Pretty standard, but comfortable. The air conditioning? A godsend in Manila’s swelter. I loved the blackout curtains! Like, seriously loved them. They were the champions against the city's blinding sun, and perfect when you just want to sleep. The bed was supremely comfy and the bathroom had a bathtub! Who uses a bathtub these days? Well, me, apparently. I was tempted by the mini-bar at first, but then I saw the prices and decided to get a Coke from the store. (Slight imperfection, as I could not find the store.) They had a decent amount of room amenities.
- Internet: Wi-Fi was strong and reliable. I could actually watch cat videos without buffering! (Priorities, people, priorities.) They also stated they had LAN, which is there apparently for those who want to get work done away from their home.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Culinary Adventure… Maybe
Breakfast? Included, which is always a win. It's a… buffet, featuring a mix of Asian and Western options. Let's just say it's not gourmet, but it’s fuel. The coffee, however, was surprisingly good. The restaurant offers a la carte as well, but I didn’t have a chance give it a whirl.
- Restaurants: They do indeed have restaurants, a coffee shop, a bar. They did offer a snack bar and poolside bar.
Services & Conveniences: The Good, the Okay, and the "I'm Still Figuring Out What That Is"
They offer a lot. Seriously. Like, a LOT. Cash withdrawal (always handy!), laundry service (essential!), and a concierge who seemed genuinely happy to help. I didn't dive into the business facilities, but they're there, which is great for business travelers. I saw a gift shop! I didn’t use it but it’s there.
- "Facilities for Disabled Guests": I didn't exactly check what this constitutes.
For the Kids (or, "Can I Get a Babysitter?"
They're family/child-friendly, but I didn't have any kids with me. Babysitting service is a plus, but I can't tell you if it's any good.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Spa Day, Anyone?
Here's where Toby’s Crib promises a lot. Spa, Sauna, Gym/fitness… okay, that’s great. But for me, the pool with a view was where it was at. It’s a pretty cool view of the city. I'm not a big fan of the sauna.
- The swimming pool was a little on the small side, but nice to cool off after a long day.
Cleanliness and Safety: The Covid Era Edition
They take it seriously. Hand sanitizer everywhere, staff masked up, and I felt pretty safe and sound. The room was sanitized between stays, and there was always a bottle of water.
- Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas… All the boxes were checked.
Getting Around: Navigating the City
Airport transfer? Yes. Car park? Free! Taxi service? Absolutely. Pretty sweet. I only used Grab.
The Quirks and the Unexpected… A Small Confession
Okay, now for the real stuff. I had a moment. (Don't judge me.) They had robes! And slippers! I spent a glorious evening lounging in those robes, sipping coffee and watching a movie. I also had issues figuring out how to use the TV. But hey, that's part of the charm, right? The imperfections, they don't matter.
- Soundproof rooms: They did a pretty good job, but you could still hear a bit of the city outside. The window opens in the room.
The Verdict: Is Toby's Crib Really a "Hidden Gem"?
Okay, here's the honest truth: Toby's Crib isn't perfect. It's a bit rough around the edges. But, here's the thing. It's comfortable, it's clean, it's well-located, and the staff are legitimately nice. It is a hidden gem!
Here's My Unedited, Stream-of-Consciousness, Book-It-Now Offer:
Okay, listen up! Are you tired of those sterile, soulless hotels that all look the same? Do you crave a Manila experience that’s authentic, a little quirky, and maybe, just maybe, a little bit magical?
Then you need to book yourself into Toby's Crib: Manila's HOTTEST San Lorenzo Place Hidden Gem! (Yep, I’m saying it!)
Why? Because, and I kid you not:
- The Blackout Curtains are Glorious! Seriously! You will sleep like a baby.
- The Staff is Legitimately Awesome. They actually smile!
- Free Wi-Fi! (Because, cat videos.)
- A Pool With a Killer View! (Beat the heat and take some insta-worthy pics!)
- Close proximity to everything! (Grab it!)
- Affordable: (Get some of your money's worth!)
But wait, there's more!
Here's My Special Offer (Because Why Not?):
Book a stay at Toby's Crib in the next 30 days and get a free upgrade (if available) and a complimentary welcome drink!
Don't wait! This is your ticket to a Manila adventure you won't forget. Book now before the secret's out and everyone else discovers this hidden gem!
Click the Link Below & Let's Get This Adventure Started!
(Insert booking link here, because, duh.)
Cotignac Dream: Private Pool, Stunning Views! Book Your Escape Now!
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because planning a "chill" staycation at Toby's Crib at San Lorenzo Place Manila is… well, let's just say it's never as chill as you imagine. Here's my attempt, a messy, honest, and hopefully hilarious itinerary, fueled by caffeine and the existential dread of being trapped indoors in a city I supposedly love:
Toby's Crib Staycation: The Real Deal (aka My Brain on Overdrive)
Day 1: The Arrival (and the Immediate Regret)
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM: The Great Migration (aka Getting There). Okay, so "San Lorenzo Place" sounds fancy, right? Like, a chic Parisian apartment. Nope. It's basically a high-rise jungle. The taxi ride from my apartment was a nightmare. Traffic. Always traffic. I swear, Manila traffic is actively trying to steal my soul. The driver, bless his heart, kept apologizing for the "kabagalan," (slowness) which only amplified my inner monologue of: "WHY AM I DOING THIS? I COULD BE HOME. EATING POTATO CHIPS. ALONE."
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM: The Check-In Circus. Finding the actual crib was a quest worthy of a Lord of the Rings sequel. The security guards, bless their bored little hearts, barely looked up. Finally, I fumble with the key card and get into the place, I'm greeted by… air conditioning. Thank God.
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM: The "Settling In" that Never Actually Happens. My "deluxe studio" (read: tiny box) is…fine. The bed looks comfy, the view is… well, it's a view of other very tall buildings. There's a faint smell of generic cleaning product, which both comforts and slightly horrifies me. Time to unpack, which translates to throwing my bag onto the floor, and then staring blankly at the TV for an hour.
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: The Pool Predicament (or, My Public Humiliation). Okay, so the brochure advertised a "sparkling pool." Sparkling, my foot. It's probably fine, but the thought of putting on a swimsuit and exposing my pale winter flesh fills me with dread. Plus, the other guests look… young and impossibly attractive. I sneak a peek from my room and see them, laughing, drinking cocktails, and I'm pretty sure they're judging my sad, crumpled bathrobe. Decided to skip the pool and binge-watch Netflix instead. Decision: Solid. 8/10
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Food Delivery Frenzy (and the Crushing Weight of Choices). The great takeaway war begins! Seriously, the amount of choices here is overwhelming. I order like… everything. From sushi to pizza, to some spicy Thai food. I also order a large bottle of soda, because hey, I'm on vacation! By this time, I have also managed to spill some of it on my clothes.
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Evening Binge-Watch and Existential Dread. The food arrives, and I eat it all like a ravenous beast. Then, the Netflix vortex sucks me in. I start watching a true-crime documentary and my brain goes into overdrive wondering about all the ways I could die in Manila. Sleep is going to be a struggle tonight.
8:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Staring at the Ceiling and Questioning My Life Choices. Okay, maybe staying indoors WASN'T the best idea. The walls seem to be closing in. The air conditioner is humming a menacing tune. My mind is racing. I try counting sheep. I TRY to write, but I can't focus. I feel the profound loneliness of modern life.
10:00 PM - Midnight: Sleep? No. I toss and turn. I check my phone too many times. I contemplate ordering midnight snacks. I can't. I try to accept that this is how my brain operates. Try, try, try.
Day 2: The Attempted Redemption (and the Ultimate Failure)
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM: The Awful Awakening. I wake up feeling like I've been run over by a truck. The lack of sleep is a killer. I curse myself for not just having a good time.
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: The Coffee Crisis. Ugh, the coffee machine is one of those pod things. I can't figure it out. I end up making instant coffee, which tastes like mud.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: The Gym (or, Me vs. The Treadmill). Okay, I decided to conquer my pool fears and GO to the gym. The gym is empty! Victory! I attempt to run on the treadmill. I last 15 minutes. I consider having a panic attack. I retreat and think about going back to eat some pancakes.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch Panic. I order some pancakes because, well, carbs. The pancakes arrive. They're… okay. My appetite has vanished and I want more coffee. I start thinking about whether I live more fully in this world, and whether I would be happy if my life never changed. The thought consumes me.
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM: The Great Escape (or, I Leave Early). I can't. I CAN'T DO IT. I pack my bag, shove the key card in the envelope, and bolt. No goodbye, no regrets. Just freedom.
5:00 PM onwards: Okay, look. I feel like a failure. I didn't have the chill staycation I wanted. I didn't use the pool. I'm pretty sure I judged those other guests way too harshly. But hey, the traffic on the way home was slightly less soul-crushing than the trip here. And, I now have a pretty good post to work on.
Final Thoughts: Toby's Crib? It's fine. Manila? Also fine. Me? A work in progress. And next time, I'm bringing a book, a therapist, and a LOT of snacks. And maybe… just maybe… I'll actually go in the pool. Nah, probably not.
Escape to Paradise: Chudzik Modern Retreat in Rerik, Germany
Okay, spill it: What *is* Toby's Crib, anyway? And is it REALLY "hidden"?
Alright, alright, settle down! Toby's Crib? It's like... a treasure hunt inside the San Lorenzo Place! "Hidden gem" is a bit dramatic, I'll admit. It IS pretty tucked away, though, kind of behind the main retail areas. You gotta be *looking* for it. Like, you know, I was there last week with my friend, Sarah, and she’s a total San Lorenzo pro, or so she thought! We walked past the entrance THREE TIMES before we finally saw the teeny sign. We were both starving, hangry as hell. I swear, I almost ripped her head off... then we found it, and I mellowed out immediately.
What kind of food does Toby's Crib serve? Is it any good?
Oh, the food! It’s... comfort food central. Basically, it's the kind of stuff you crave after a long day (or, let's be honest, any day). They specialize in things like burgers, pasta, and some surprisingly good, *spicy* chicken wings. My personal favorite? The Crispy Chicken Sandwich. Seriously, I dream about that thing. I tell you, after that first bite, I didn't even care if I'd been able to find the place in the first place. I just wanted to eat! Sarah, on the other hand, is all about the pasta. Apparently, the pesto is something else. She literally moans when she eats it. It's almost embarrassing. Okay, it IS embarrassing. It's GOOD. And, yes, it IS good! Way better than some of the fancy-schmancy places in the mall down the street. And, I mean, for the price? Absolute steal!
Okay, but is the *atmosphere* any good? Like, is it just a dingy hole-in-the-wall?
Okay, it's not exactly a five-star experience. Let's be clear. It's got a... rustic charm. Picture this: comfy chairs, a bit of a college vibe, and maybe, just maybe, a little bit of that "lived-in" look. It’s not spotless. It's not trying to be pretentious. And, honestly? That's what I love about it. It’s got character! They play decent music, not too loud, and the lighting is just right. Plus, the staff are super friendly—they always make you feel welcome. I swear, I once spilled an entire drink on myself (classic me) and they were seriously cool about it. No judgement, just quick with the paper towels. That speaks volumes, doesn’t it? It's a place you can actually relax and not worry about being perfect. A far cry from some of the stuffy locations in Makati. And that, my friends, is golden.
How's the pricing? Is it wallet-friendly or is it going to drain my bank account?
Listen, in this economy, we all care about the price. It's remarkably affordable! You're talking about a seriously good meal without having to sell your kidney on the black market. Seriously, you can get a decent burger and fries for less than what you'd pay for a sad salad at some of the other places around San Lorenzo. I actually think it’s *too* affordable. They should raise their prices! I’m half-expecting them to go out of business because they don’t charge enough. It's a little bit of a guilty feeling. Like, are they *sure* they're turning a profit? But hey, I'm not complaining! My wallet definitely isn't. I once went there with my whole family, about 6 of us, and it cost less than taking us to the movies. I was surprised, too. The bang for your buck is just... *chef's kiss*.
Do they have parking? And is it a nightmare?
Okay, parking. This is where things get a little... complicated. You ARE in San Lorenzo Place. Parking is always a gamble. Let's just say, if you're driving, arrive early! The building has parking, of course, but it's usually packed. I mean, it's Manila, right? You can try to find a spot on the street, but be prepared to circle the block a few times. The best advice? Take a Grab! Much less stress. Otherwise? Leave the car with the valet. Sometimes the prices are insane, sometimes, they're not. Be prepared to pay for the convenience, but I think it is worth it. I once spent 45 minutes looking for parking and gave up. I mean, I almost cried. I was hungry! That day, I took a cab and decided to just not drive. It was the best decision ever. So yeah…parking is a pain. But the food is worth it?
What's the best time to go to Toby's Crib?
This is a crucial question, my friends! Lunchtime is a zoo. Seriously packed with the office crowd. Evenings are usually calmer, but you might have to wait for a table, especially on weekends. My personal favorite? Late afternoon, like a little after the lunch rush or before the dinner surge. That sweet spot in between is perfect! You can actually hear yourself think, you get the full attention of the staff, and you can savor your meal without feeling rushed. Plus, you might be able to snag some leftovers for a midnight snack! Just a pro-tip: avoid Friday nights unless you enjoy a crowded, boisterous atmosphere. It's fun, but definitely not chill.
Okay, you mentioned chicken wings. But is Toby's Crib just for the usual suspects? Or do they have options for vegetarians, or people with dietary restrictions?
This is something I've actually thought about! I'm not a vegetarian myself, I LOVE my meat, but I've noticed they do have *some* options. Salad, I think, maybe one or two pasta dishes that can be modified? I'd suggest checking their menu online or calling ahead if you have specific needs. Honestly, though? If you're a strict vegetarian, it might not be your *ideal* place. The focus is definitely on comfort food, and that often involves meat. The place smells of grilled goodness. I mean, the crispy chicken sandwich, it's a religious experience...you know? I can't speak for everyone. This is important. I am not a dietician. I am just a hungry person who goes to Toby's. If you have really specific needs, call ahead!!! Maybe…check out the mall down the street. But then you'll be missing out!
Is Toby's Crib kid-friendly?
Hmm, kid-friendly... It depends. They don't have a dedicated kidsHotelish
