Sonya's Garden

Barangay Buck Estate, Alfonso, Cavite, Philippines (near the vicinity of Tagaytay City, Philippines)

Before my best friend Joy P left for Ireland, Gracel (then housemate in I4) organized a farewell outing for her. We decided to try out Sonya's private paradise. The place' idyllic setting spreads out a flower garden that is choreographed with artistic perfection. We indulged ourselves with taking photos at the different nooks and corners of the garden.

Joy O, me, Jelome, Joy P, and Gracel

Eating at Sonya's is not just a feast for the taste but a feast for the senses--the natural fragrance emanating from the surrounding flowers and herbs creates a soothing effect to the body, the medley of flavors seduces the palate, the music of nature cools the tired muscles, and the harmony of various colors and shades relaxes the eyes. Sonya's culinary repertoire is a blend of Asian-European inspired dishes served in vintage china.

We tried to explore their SPA which other visitors translate as Secret Pleasures at Sonya's. Guests who wanted to spoil themselves with a little pampering find pleasure in their signature massage which is a "compendium of Sonya’s favorite massage strokes that maintains pressure and focus typical of Shiatsu while executing relaxing Swedish strokes that improves blood circulation combined with stretching movements of a Thai massage. Another favorite is the Four Hands Massage, a unique body treatment designed to double one’s pleasure with synchronized strokes" [from Sonya's website]

Cafe Breton - Tagaytay

I was craving for crepes one day and a friend recommended the blueberry crepes of Cafe Breton. She also told me to try their burger. Late this afternoon after my friend Cherille finished taking her exam, we decided to give ourselves another treat and went to the Cliff House which houses a souvenir shop, ice cream shops, two great restaurants: Buon Giorno! and Fire Lake Grill, as well as Cafe Breton.

Sure enough we tried their burger which has a juicy 100% beef filling. It was indeed tummy filling and we finished off with a blueberry crepe and strawberry smoothie. Next thing to try out is their La Pinay crepe.

Tootsie's

Cherille and I had planned on dining out once a month to enjoy the nice restaurants in Tagaytay and nearby food shops in Silang. The choice for tonight was a place we saw when we passed by Tagaytay last Sunday. We didn't remember the name of the restaurant but decided to just check it out.

The place was empty when we came in. The aroma of some soothing herbs was very welcoming and relaxing. The restaurant has a homey ambiance--one with clean and cozy interiors. The decor was simple--hanging live plants in pots and some on the tables, wooden cabinet in the middle filled with several variations of china, and a flower painting on one side of the wall.

The food on the menu consists of a small selection of salads and pasta, quite an offering of homegrown Pinoy food, and all-day breakfast. Names of the dishes have Ilonggo undertones.

The place is best suited for family meals. Bringing some balikbayan relatives there would give them a treat of their missed Filipino recipes.