And it’s no surprise that Tagaytay, which is only a short drive from Metro Manila, is always part of every balikbayan’s must-visit list.
To those who are looking for a nice restaurant for their balikbayan guests, we’ve got you covered. ABS-CBN News and selected media recently went on a food tour of Tagaytay’s new and tried and tested dining spots as recommended by the restaurant app Zomato.
Here are the six restaurants we visited:
Amacena
Filipino food gets a contemporary twist at Amacena helmed by Chef Luigi Muhlach, son of celebrities Aga Muhlach and Janice de Belen. The dishes served here are equally delicious as they are Instagram-worthy, with a dash of comfort. Make sure to order the Sizzling Bulalo Steak, Tuna Kilawin and Kaldereta Pot Pie.
Amacena is located at One Tagaytay Place Hotel, 445 Tagaytay-Calamba Road, Sungay West
Taaleña
If you’re looking for some Tagaytay dishes without frills, head to Taaleña, a restaurant that has been around for years. Have some Crispy Tawilis and Bulalong Batangas, among others, while enjoying a nice view of Taal Lake.
Taaleña is located at Casa Taal, Kilometer 54, Silang Crossing West, Aguinaldo Highway.
1st Colonial
No need to go all the way to Albay to get a taste of the famed Sili Ice Cream as 1st Colonial also has a branch in Tagaytay City. The Sili Ice Cream comes in four spice levels, depending on tolerance. Make sure to try the other unique flavors – pili, salabat, pipino and tinutong na bigas, to name a few – as well.
1st Colonial is located at the ground floor of Magallanes Square at Aguinaldo Highway.
Balay Dako
The hype surrounding the newest restaurant of Antonio’s Group is real. Balay Dako, which means “big house,” is a gorgeous modern colonial structure that serves top-notch local fare – including those with Spanish and Chinese influences – against a backdrop of Taal Lake. The restaurant is particularly busy on weekends for its breakfast buffet, which is probably the best available in Tagaytay today.
Balay Dako is located at Aguinaldo Highway.
Lime & Basil
Craving for some Thai food? Lime & Basil is considered by many as a gem amid Tagaytay’s many Filipino eateries, with the restaurant serving farm-to-table Thai cuisine at affordable prices. A tent can be set up at the garden, perfect for romantic dinners and family get-togethers.
Lime & Basil is located at J. Rizal Street, Barangay Sicat, Alfonso.
Bowstring
Who said you can’t have bulalo during a nightcap? Pair your cocktails and beers with this Tagaytay staple at Bowstring, which is just near the rotunda. Go to the rooftop to enjoy the cool breeze and a nice view, and order a side of Sriracha honey butter-glazed chicken wings while you’re at it.
Bowstring is located at Grandview Complex, Tagaytay-Calamba Road.
source: news.abs-cbn.com
