Due to the notorious traffic along the South Expressway, I’ve mercilessly given up going to Tagaytay through the years in favor of other itineraries in the North. But I guess absence does make the heart grow fonder….

On the way there, we first make a lunch stop at Kanin Club in Paseo de Sta. Rosa. As expected of this in-demand resto, we had to wait for a few minutes to get a table and a longer time for our food. Even though a part of me wanted to try their crispy dinuguan again, I was craving for the paksiw na bangus but it fell short of expectations. The sauce of the paksiw had the consistency of soup

Arriving in our destination, we checked in at Hotel Dominique which was quite near the rotonda. We chose this hotel because we were able to get a good rate here: P4,500 or approximately $100 for a two bedroom, two bathroom casita with attic (and own parking space.) The Spanish-inspired hotel looked small from the highway, but it was spacious inside. It even had a swimming pool.

What is a trip South of Manila without the overlooking view of Taal Lake and the volcano? We chose to hang out in the view deck of the Taal Vista Hotel and later settle for drinks at their Cafe on the Ridge. Brrr! It was cold. Tagaytay weather can really rival Baguio at this time of year. It was also foggy that day but we arrived just in time to catch the beautiful sunset.

Dinner was at Bag of Beans which is famous for its pies, raisin bread and mini aviary. The owner is a Filipina married to a British guy. We’ve tasted better pies but the place rates high in terms of ambiance. The resto has expanded and you’ll be pleased to find not just a table, but your own private hut.

In the morning, we chose to have a savory breakfast of pancakes and omelettes at Buon Giorno of The Cliff House Tagaytay. I liked not only this restaurant (service was good) but the whole complex itself since it’s picturesque and features other reputable establishments like The Fire Lake Grill and Cafe Breton. The boutique hotel, The Inn at Cliffhouse Tagaytay, has also just opened and should be a must-try the next time we’re in the city.

Lunch was spent at Chateau Hestia, one of the new “out of the way” restaurants located in the outskirts of the city (I think its address is already Silang, Cavite). This resto prides itself in its European menu since the owner is Swiss. The kids gorged on their gourmet pizzas while the hubby had his French onion soup, salad and schnitzel. But my order of a Reuben sandwich was a big disappointment. I am still in search of a good Reuben around. Overall though, service was good and guests will surely have a good time roaming around their spacious garden,complete with swings, a hanging bridge and rooms for their Bed and Breakfast.

If you’re going to Chateau Hestia on a date, don’t forget to give your loved one these I Love You chocolates from Belgium, tee hee

Unfortunately, this trip didn’t bring any exciting culinary discoveries for me. Still, Tagaytay wins it for the cool weather, the nice view and the prettiness of its restaurants. I am looking forward to visiting with the family again soon!