Jun 21

Jun 21 Tagaytay: Mahogany Market Eateries

CAVITE, PHILIPPINES - Ever wondered where you can get big and cheap bowls of Bulalo when you are in Tagaytay? I have long been looking for a place like this and now we found it! Mahogany Market Eateries is not new and probably, not an unknown place too in Tagaytay but it is a place that does not get much recognition either. While the bulk of people hover in at those establishments along the Tagaytay-Nasugbu road, which are by the way often overly populated, only a few dares to go off-road and find a dining gem like this in the tourist destination. Yes, it is huge but it is also unassuming and out-of-the way which makes this line-up of eateries, by definition, a hole-in-the-wall.

The Mahogany Market Eateries can be found at the back of the Mahogany Market. Taking a right turn from the front of the market to reach the destination, one would immediately think that this dingy place could not be it. And how could it be when all you see are stalls that sell vegetables, meats and what-nots? Do not worry though, as your doubt is a clear indication that you are already on the right place. After travelling a few more meters to reach the back of the market, you would be able to see then the strip of eateries that sell the same dishes as the stall beside them. Just take your pick from the long line and order away the Bulalo, Chicharon Bulaklak, Crispy Biya and Crispy Tawilis, which are all greatly recommended! We settled with Betchay & Vic Canteen which also offer dishes that are ready-cooked and aptly displayed in front of their stall for easy choosing.

This plate of oily and crunchy goodness of Chicharon Bulaklak only costs Php 150.

This big, steaming bowl of Bulalo Soup (Php 350) kept all of us warm and satisfied on that particular rainy afternoon. We were in awe of the tenderness and juiciness of the meat that we made sure to buy some beef meat before heading home.

This crunchy fried fish is known as Crispy Biya (Php 150) came as surprise for me! I just love how addicting the crunchiness and toasted taste are that I kept on coming back for more!

The Crispy fried Tawilis (Php 150) is a sure-ball dish. You will never go wrong with this! Just be careful with the fishbone as they can be bigger than you think!

So if you happen to be on a budget and, at the same time, abhor the crowdedness of the establishments along the main road, the eateries at the back of the Mahogany Market would be your best bet. Not only will your cravings be satisfied to the core but you would not have to fight your way out anymore just to be able to slurp a magnanimous bowl of steaming Bulalo. Now, who wouldn't want that?