We've had our fair share of visitors the lest few months and I am so grateful. I think this little blog has helped convinced our family (hopefully others too!) that Manila and the The Philippines has so much to offer! I have a basic itinerary I use for visitors and Tagaytay is usually on it. Tagaytay can seem a little clichè and perhaps over done but despite it's traffic it's still pretty cool. I mean, Taal is a freaking lake volcano inside of another lake volcano. This last trip to Tagaytay was perfect because we got to have lunch at Balay Dako, which I have been eying for months. I am a sucker for details and Balay Dako translates to 'Big House' in Negrense. Balay Dakos traditionally housed celebrations and large gatherings, how perfect to congregate with family visiting. Staying true to the Antonio group, the interiors had me drooling and the view was breathtaking. The best real estate on the ridge in my opinion. Plus, a massive green yard for children to run around and play while the adults enjoy the view and dine. If you are going to Tagaytay for the view I suggest you stop here. No need to go any further.

If you aren't actually going to take the boat across and see Taal up close, you might as well find a beautiful restaurant and view to admire it from.

The Balay Dako Deli was delightful and so well curated. It was aesthetically pleasing and packing flavorful pasalubong as well. Local greens, jams and cookies are available.

There are two levels to the Big House. This is the lower level. I would suggest being seated on the second level as there are higher ceilings and it felt a bit more spacious.

The interiors were stunning. It's as if they contracted Anthropologie to design the place. I couldn't get over the size of this cabinet! My goodness the details had me swooning. The view from our table was radiant. I loved the breeze from the windows as it is an open air restaurant.

I will be perfectly honest, the food wasn't my favorite. It wasn't anything to rave about but perhaps I didn't order for my personal pallet. I have finally eaten enough Filipino food and have a preference. Manam and Heritage Bistro are still my favorites. BUT I would still go back again for the view and ambiance and try different dishes.

As crowded and over done as Tagaytay is, she sure is beautiful. I love The Philippines, there is beauty all around.

One last view. Ain't she pretty?

Things To Know:

• You should stop along the road and admire the wood working, fruit stands and flower stands on the way to Tagaytay.

• I would suggest making a reservation. We walked in but had a thirty minute wait.

• Dogs are allowed.

• Antonio’s is located at Purok 138, Barangay Neogan, Tagaytay City, Batangas, PhilippinesFor inquiries, please call +63.917.899.2866 or +63.918.899.2866.Breakfast at Antonio’s is located along E. Aguinaldo Highway (Tagaytay-Nagsugbu Highway), Barangay Bagong Tubig, Tagaytay City, Cavite, PhilippinesFor inquiries, please call +63.46.413.0738Balay Dako is located atTagaytay-Nagsugbu Highway, 4120 Tagaytay City, Cavite, Philippines (Besides Leslie’s and Max’s across Magallanes Square in Tagaytay)For inquiries, please call (0943) 264-1680 or 0464134866