Counting the amount of time I spend in the tourist-laden Tagaytay, I can already qualify to be called a local. I am here every week except of course when my body is aching, things get too busy in Manila, or when I am traveling. Other than those limitations, I like hiking to Tagaytay, not when throngs of tourists come. I like it when there are no people, and few vehicles, then I feel that it’s still the quaint little town.
Even if I am here a lot of times, I am still not familiar with the places to go around here. I am creature of habit, I go to the same places every time. I am trying to venture out para hindi nakakasawa, but my knowledge of things to do and where to eat in this town is still lacking.
There’s a restaurant that I’ve been noticing every time I pass along Aguinaldo Hway. It’s right on the main road. I thought it’s nice, parang residence ginawang restaurant.
Last week, I finally had the chance. I was by myself, on my way home, but haven’t had lunch.
Lumampas kami actually, I asked the driver to make a u-turn.
Entrance
This must be the owner’s vacation house (Gerry and Kathleen Manzano).
And who is Carmencita? Gerry’s mother according to their staff at the restaurant.
They have a small garden at the front.
I thought of ordering kare-kare.
Instead of ordering food right away, I explored their small but nice back space where people can dine al fresco.
Small garden with dining tables
Time to order, nalibang ako mag-picture. They have a colorful menu board. Nahihirapan ako pag matagal naka tingala, nagma-migraine ako.
The place gives a vibe that you’re inside a private house. It’s homey.
Touches of Filipiniana
The dining is limited to the ground floor. The second floor is private, siguro the owners stay there.
Their callos with chorizo is good to share but I finished all the callos and the sauce. I want to go back to Carmencita for this dish.
Some restaurants in Tagaytay close from 2 pm to 6 pm.
I was relieved that Carmencita is open the whole day. I can go back anytime in the afternoon which is usually the time that I get to eat lunch.
