Bulalo Dinner on My 37th Birthday in Tagaytay – A Cozy Family Food Trip
Celebrated my 37th birthday in Tagaytay with Bulalo at Diner’s Original Bulalo. Honest review of the food, ambiance, and whether it’s worth visiting.
A Stormy Birthday Dinner in Tagaytay
My 37th birthday didn’t come with grand plans, but it led us to Tagaytay—famous for its cool weather and comforting Bulalo. The skies were stormy, the wind howled, and the rain kept pouring, which made the craving for hot soup even stronger.
Since our hotel was far from Mahogany Market, the well-known hub for the best Bulalo in Tagaytay, we looked for something closer. Just across the street, we spotted Diner’s Original Bulalo, proudly marked with the words “Since 1984.” A restaurant that’s been around for decades felt promising enough to try.
First Impressions & Waiting Time
At first, we stayed in one of their kubo-style huts, where I could vape while waiting. But as the rain picked up, we had to move indoors. Unfortunately, the food took longer than expected.
Despite having only a few customers that night, our orders—Bulalo, Pork Sisig, and Tawilis—took more than 40 minutes to arrive. My wife eventually followed up with the staff, who remained polite and accommodating throughout.
The Food We Ordered
Bulalo
The star of the evening but not the star of the night. The Bulalo was warm and comforting, perfect for the weather, but the flavor wasn’t remarkable compared to the bowls served in Mahogany Market.
Tawilis
We were served larger-than-usual Tawilis, which was a surprise. Unfortunately, they lacked the crispiness and flavor that the famous Tagaytay Tawilis is known for.
Pork Sisig
The Sisig was average, leaning more on the safe side of seasoning and presentation. Nothing bad, but nothing memorable either.
Ambiance & Pricing
If there’s one redeeming factor, it’s the cozy and quiet vibe of Diner’s Original Bulalo. It offered a peaceful dining experience away from the often-crowded Tagaytay food spots.
Price-wise, however, the meals leaned toward the expensive side given the portion sizes and flavor. For families wanting comfort and calm, though, it might still be worth it.
FAQs About Bulalo in Tagaytay
Q: Where can you find the best Bulalo in Tagaytay?
A: Locals recommend Mahogany Market, where Bulalo is served hot, flavorful, and at more affordable prices.
Q: How was the Bulalo at Diner’s Original Bulalo?
A: It was decent and comforting for the cold weather, but the flavor didn’t stand out compared to other Tagaytay Bulalo spots.
Q: Is Diner’s Original Bulalo budget-friendly?
A: The prices are slightly higher than average for the serving size and taste. You’re mostly paying for the ambiance and quieter dining experience.
Q: What’s special about dining here?
A: The ambiance—less crowded, cozy, and family-friendly, which makes it ideal if you prefer a quiet meal away from busy spots.
