What we ordered at Mer-Ben Tapsilogan

Last April, while we were on our way to Canyon Cove in Nasigbu, Batangas, we decided to stop over at Tagaytay for lunch. Our companions suggested that we try Mer-Ben because they offer good food at affordable prices.

We were a big group so we were ushered by the servers to the second level of the restaurant. We were actually in a nice position because it commanded a stunning view of Taal Lake as well as Taal Volcano and Mt. Binintiang Malaki. We went to Mer-Ben during the peak of summer but it was breezy, thus it was comfortable despite the heat of the sun.

We ordered bowls of Extra Special Bulalo (Php520), Crispy Fried Tawilis (Php180), Sizzling Sisig (Php260), Adobong Pusit, (Php180), Camaron (Php450), and Pinakbet (Php88). For dessert, Khris and I had Halo-Halo (Php90), which we asked to be served after our meal. As you can see, the food is very reasonably priced as compared to other restaurants in Tagaytay.

Waiting time was short before the food was delivered to our table, but maybe because there were not many customers at that time.

Our experience

We immediately began with the Bulalo soup because we knew it will get cold easily because of the strong Tagaytay winds. The broth was noteworthy; it tasted of bone marrow that was simmered for a long time. We were also happy to see that there was a considerable amount of lean meat in the soup. Just a tip – you can ask for more additional soup if you want more. What I like about Mer-Ben is that they always deliver the soup piping hot.

Crispy Fried Tawilis

As always, tawilis left a good impression on us. This fish is always packed with flavors. I just hope that it is immediately served right after it leaves the frying pan so that it does not get cold easily. Honestly, I have not yet had crunchy tawilis in Tagaytay. I think it will be more enjoyable to eat when it is crispy and then dipped in spicy vinegar.

Sizzling Pork Sisig

Meanwhile, Mer-Ben’s sizzling sisig is served on a customary hot plate and topped with a fresh egg. It was meaty and crunchy but it was too rich because they used a bit more margarine to cook the meat. Nevertheless, I still enjoyed it with white rice which cut the richness of the pork fat and margarine a little bit.

Adobong Pusit

Lastly, Mer-Ben’s Camaron and Adobong Pusit are your best options when you are craving seafood. The Camaron remained crunchy despite the cold air. On the other hand, the Adobong Pusit is made of native baby squid which is the more flavorful and fragrant variety as compared to the bigger species of squid that is commonly made into calamari or fried squid rings.

Mer-Ben Tapsilogan: the verdict

Mer-Ben Tapsilogan is not hard to recommend for those who are looking for a restaurant in Tagaytay that serves delicious food. Their Bulalo, I think, is a strong contender for the best Bulalo in Tagaytay. Plus, I cannot overemphasize how affordable the food is. If you are a big group or family who wants to enjoy good food but does not want to break their wallets, then you must go to Mer-Ben Tapsilogan.