Al-fresco restaurants have always had their special charm. But now, they are even more relevant in the pandemic era. When meeting up with friends or taking your family out, al-fresco dining spots are your best and safest bet. In Tagaytay, such restaurants give you not only that peace of mind but also the advantage of getting unobstructed views of Taal Volcano and Tagaytay’s amazing landscape.
Below, we’ve rounded up the best al-fresco restaurants in Tagaytay where you can enjoy dining safely.
Bag of Beans (5 Branches)
Bag of Beans is already well-rooted in Tagaytay’s dining scene, having been around for more than two decades. What’s great about Bag of Beans is that all of its branches feature an al-fresco or garden area, thoughtfully designed to let diners soak up the climate and scenery of Tagaytay. Bag of Beans has an extensive menu of delicious offerings, from local Filipino favorites to Western classics like pancakes and meat pies, and delectable coffee and desserts.
You can never go wrong with any of the five branches, but if the view of Taal Volcano is what you’re after, be sure to head to Athena (near Ayala Malls Serin), Charito (near The Lake Hotel), or the Twin Lakes Shopping Village branch.
Business hours: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m. (may vary slightly per branch)
Contact number: +63 046-413-4356
Lime and Basil
Al-fresco dining at the garden of Lime and Basil is a total sensory experience—from invigorating flavors to pleasing scenery and the therapeutic aroma of fresh herbs. This Thai restaurant is one of the best options if you’re on a health-conscious or vegetarian diet as there are a lot of meatless options such as our favorite fresh spring rolls and papaya salad (som tam). If you love spicy food, you’ll also find the right adventure here.
Lime and Basil is hidden away in the city’s periphery, where it takes on a more homey vibe. It is close to Tagaytay’s family attractions like Zoori and Paradizoo.
Location: 9014 J. Rizal St., Barangay Sicat, Alfonso, Cavite
Business hours: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Contact number: +63 915-627-6393
Antonio’s
Antonio’s is one of Tagaytay’s premier dining destinations, the brainchild of multi-awarded Chef Antonio “Tony Boy” Escalante. This classy colonial-style home that is Antonio’s is surrounded by a welcoming sight of lush landscape. It serves as the perfect setting for a peerless gourmet experience. The restaurant is sought-after for its high standard of food preparation and presentation led by Chef Tony Boy, creating dishes that leave a lasting impression on the palate.
The meat entrees are the headliners of the show, particularly the steaks. It would be worth taking a peek at the rows of dry-aging coolers where mouthwatering steaks are displayed like a piece of art on exhibit.
Location: Purok 138, Barangay Neogan, Tagaytay City
Contact for reservation: +63 918-899-2866 / +63 917-899-2866
Breakfast at Antonio’s
Breakfast cravings can hit us at any time of the day, and this is what Breakfast at Antonio’s is for. This offshoot of Antonio’s is a lovely ode to our favorite meal of the day. It offers breakfast favorites from all over the world, from familiar American staples like pancakes and waffles to European brunch and Filipino rice meals. Not only that, but this breakfast bistro also has a lot of comfort food options including pasta, pizza, and healthy salads.
Breakfast at Antonio’s is situated in an American country-style home with a view of Taal Volcano. It has a more casual vibe, although one can still recognize the graceful charm that’s characteristic of Antonio’s.
Location: E. Aguinaldo Hwy, Barangay Bagong Tubig, Tagaytay City
Business hours: 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Contact number: +63 046-413-0738
Balay Dako
Another noteworthy pick from Antonio’s Group of Restaurants in Tagaytay is Balay Dako, which is focused on family dining and Filipino fare. Aptly named Balay Dako, which is Negrense for “big house,” the restaurant occupies an imposing Spanish colonial mansion with spacious balconies overlooking Taal Volcano.
Balay Dako has everything that can please a discerning Filipino palate, such as the must-try Kare Kare Klasik and, of course, Bulalo na Baka (beef shank soup). Sizzling Bulalo served on a cast-iron platter is also a must-try.
Location: Tagaytay-Nasugby Hwy (across Magallanes Dr.), Tagaytay City
Business hours: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Contact number: +63 923-726-6290
Aozora (3 Branches)
When it comes to Japanese food cravings, Aozora is always top of mind. With a Japanese chef at the helm and ingredients imported from Japan, the restaurant ensures a gastronomic flight to the land of the rising sun. Its menu has a wide selection of sushi and sashimi and an assortment of Japanese curry, donburi, and ramen among others. Aozora has also successfully adapted to the local palate by giving bulalo its own Japanese twist with the best-selling Aozora Ramen.
Among Aozora’s three branches, we recommend Aozora at the Farm located on Anna Marriane Street near Magallanes Drive. It’s the most accessible and spacious and is complemented by a view of a vegetable farm. The two other branches are located on SVD Road and Tagaytay-Calamba Road (across Tagaytay South Ridge).
Business hours: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Contact number: +63 936-980-9656
Make the most out of your time in Tagaytay by treating yourself to a pampering treatment at Nurture Wellness Village or touring around the city’s top attractions!
Find more activities you can book on KKday!
*Featured image via Bag of Beans & Antonio’s Group of Restaurants
