Balay Dako's old world charm

Chef Tony Boy Escalante's Balay Dako (Ilonggo phrase translated as "big house") in Tagaytay is a recent addition to the restaurant scene. Patterned after the architecture of a Bacolod mansion, the restaurant attempts to capture the grandeur of a past era. The trained uniformed attendants complete the ambiance.

At the restaurant's entrance. It feels like one is entering a rich uncle's home.

At the foyer where guests are received, first time visitors can appreciate the portraits of the Escalante family ancestors.

The dining room is huge surrounded by open windows, similar to Breakfast at Antonio's.

Some of the house specialties are listed on the blackboard.

At P135 per order, this chicken inasal is priced reasonably. This particular order was grilled quite well.

The pinakbet was cooked with pork meat and lots of bagoong (shrimp paste).

The pork sisig wasn't too crispy.

This pansit is a house specialty.

The bangus sinigang had no fish bones.

Piaya station where the Bacolod delicacy is grilled.

The Piaya 6-pack sells for P65. We enjoyed this one with our coffee.

The Terraza Bar at the upper floor is where functions can also be held.

Before heading out the restaurant, the deli is a another stop.  We liked the monggo bread that we bought there.

The deli also offers fresh greens.

The restaurant is located along the Tagaytay-Nasugbu highway, near Carlos Pizza and Max Restaurant, before reaching Summit Ridge.