10 Tagaytay Restaurants for Your Next Road Trip
(SPOT.ph) It’s always a good idea to take a break from the concrete jungle and say hello to a more scenic environment even just for the weekend. For most of us, Tagaytay is the easiest choice—it’s not too far, the view is amazing, and the food options are just endless! In fact, narrowing down a list of restaurants to try in Tagaytay is no easy task as it boasts a wealth of memorable dining experiences. But if you and your food buddies are looking for something new to try or you simply want to discover a hidden gem, we've rounded up places to get you started.
Here are 10 food spots in Tagaytay to visit on your next road trip:
Café Voi La
Every corner of Café Voi La is simply picture-perfect. The owner is a globe-trotter and it’s evident in the café’s interiors—from oriental pieces and Asian ornaments hanging on the walls, to a beautiful collection of jars and tea cups from different parts of the world. While it sounds French, the name actually came from a Vietnamese word “boi la” which means “to cook with leaves.” It has an Asian fusion menu featuring dishes like Chicken Satay (P395) and Massaman Back Ribs (P695), which you can pair with their refreshing drinks like the Vietnamese Iced Coffee (P175) that uses coconut milk.
Café Voi La is at Crosswinds, Tagaytay City.
Don Limone Grill
While it’s known for delectable cheesecakes and Mediterranean food, regulars also keep coming back to Don Limone Grill because of their colorful interiors. It’s filled with quirky details and beautiful murals everywhere. The quiet setting is perfect for intimate conversations especially for those who don’t want to have to compromise on food, drinks, or ambience. A visit here won’t be complete without trying their Beef Tenderloin Espetada (P895) and their wide assortment of cheesecakes such as pecan, pumpkin, mango, limoncello, and more.
Don Limone Grill is at 4870 General Emilio Aguinaldo Mendez Crossing East, Tagaytay City.
Concha’s Garden Café
This garden-themed restaurant is the perfect place to complement your out-of-town escapade. The vibe is welcoming and it even has a deck where you can savor the mesmerizing view of the Taal Volcano. The kitchen churns out Filipino favorites like Pork Binagoongan (P270), Spicy Beef Adobo Ribs (P290) and their specialty, the Boneless Crispy Pork Face (P500). The serving size is good for sharing so it’s a great venue if you want a relaxed place to catch up with family or friends.
Concha’s Garden Café is at Cliffhouse, Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City.
Dreamland Arts and Crafts Café
If you want a dreamy, bohemian setting where the food is as Instagram-worthy as the venue, then Dreamland Arts and Crafts Café is definitely a must. It's laid-back, complete with dream catchers, beautiful fairy lights, and pastel interiors. There are also interesting trinkets and vintage finds like bags, rings, adult coloring books, and everything artsy. The café serves breakfast and classic comfort food like their delicious waffles and DIY Nutella Smores Delight (P250).
Dreamland Arts and Crafts Café is at Purok 157, San Jose, Tagaytay City.
Aozora
Satisfy your cravings for Japanese food in this industrial-looking restaurant. Its name Aozora (“blue sky” in English) is appropriate as diners are always treated to a scenic view. Make sure to try their signature Dragon Maki (P350) filled with tempura and topped with mayo, tobiko, and seaweed. Their Wagyu Yakiniku Beef (P790), tender meat with fresh mushrooms and different roasted vegetables, is also a must-try for a filling main course.
Aozora is at Domicillo Hotel, KM 58 Gen. E. Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City.
Amacena
In a place teeming with Filipino restaurants, Amacena (formerly Azalea) at One Tagaytay Place knows it has to stand out. Chef Luigi Muhlach says he created a menu based on food that he enjoys eating, and once you have a taste, you'll know the dishes are made with that home-cooked goodness and a surprising twist. A local breakfast staple finds its way in the Mac & Cheese Longganisa (P300), and the Sizzling Bulalo Steak (P600) comes with fried potatoes, but do remember to make room for their Leche Flan Turon (P150).
Amacena is at One Tagaytay Place, 445 Tagaytay-Calamba Road, Barrio Sungay West, Tagaytay City.
The Lake District
The Lake District’s cozy and hip look attracts a lot of diners in Tagaytay. Plus, the food is also pretty awesome. They mostly offer modern Western cuisine in their menu and every meal starts with a complimentary pinipig. Perfect for the cool weather is their Spicy Garlic Butter Seafood Platter (P380), which is best paired with their lemony House Blend Iced Tea (P130). Try their bestseller, the Porchetta (P400) or rolled pork belly with herbs and spices. The Lake District also has alcoholic drinks so it’s just the place if you want to chill after a hearty meal.
The Lake District is at Vista Point, Maharlika West, Tagaytay City.
Il Gallo Nero Italian Trattoria
Brick arches, wooden tables, and big windows to welcome the fresh, cool breeze of Tagaytay—this is how this restaurant charms its diners at first sight. The menu is all about authentic Italian food and they make sure that most of their ingredients are imported to stay true to the flavors. Some of the bestsellers include the Pizza Margherita (P280), Caesar Salad (P350), and Puttanesca (P400).
Il Gallo Nero Italian Trattoria is at Alfonso Hotel, 4 Washington Avenue, Royale Tagaytay Estates, Alfonso, Cavite.
Café Carmencita Fine Cuisine & Cakes
Café Carmencita Fine Cuisine & Cakes is an intimate establishment, run hands-on by the owners as they share their take on some of the most-loved Filipino and Spanish dishes. It’s known for their refined blend of flavors and some of the must-tries include the Callos (P380), Beef Stew (P395), and Prawns Thermidor (P390). Don’t forget to have a taste of their delectable desserts, too!
Café Carmencita Fine Cuisine & Cakes is at Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City.
El Cocinero by Chef Arnaldo
This dining destination is a bit far from the busy streets of Tagaytay so it offers a more secluded vibe. Adding drama to the place are the Picasso-inspired paintings and vibrant walls which complement the overall look. The owner, Chef Arnaldo, lived in Ibiza, Spain for 14 years and brought home the authentic flavors of Spanish dishes. Some of the must-tries would be the El Cocinero Paella (P1,395), Paella Negra (P1,113), and their special Pescado Al Horno (P442) or baked fish.
El Cocinero Chef Arnaldo is at La Bella Residences, Neogan, Tagaytay City.
