Beauty on Its Own: Abe's Farm, Pampanga

As I mentioned on my previous post, I’ll be showing you photos inside Abe’s Farm. Sadly, I was only able to take a few shots outside because of the scorching heat.

One of reasons why I chose Abe’s Farm is because of the lush green gardens. I am very impressed with the well-maintained plants and landscapes. The scenery is undoubtedly refreshing.

Let's now move on with the interiors of the restaurant. I enjoyed taking photos of the unique pieces which adorn the open air dining area. Everything is beautiful in its own way. 

Whew! That was quite a lot! Hope you enjoyed looking at the photos. I'd really like to come back to Abe's Farm. It is very comforting to be there. I'll probably visit again during the late afternoon so that I can tour the place more and try on the duyan. Hihi.

Awesome 26! - Abe's Farm, Pampanga

One of the reasons why I look forward to my birthday is the chance to be with my family and dine out. For my 26th birthday, I decided to take them to Abe's Farm in Magalang (Pampanga). J (my boyfriend) and B's girlfriend N came all the way from Manila to join us for lunch. We are a complete happy family!

Abe's Farm is nestled on the foothills of Mt Arayat. It is part of the LJC Restaurant Chain which includes Cafe Adriatico, Cafe Havana, Bistro Remedios, Larry's Cafe and Bar, Abe, Fely J's Kitchen, Lorenzo's Way and LaMer. It offers overnight accommodations and spa services as well.

I made a reservation beforehand to secure seats for nine. It took us about 45 minutes to an hour from Angeles City to reach Abe's Farm. Since we were already hungry on our way to Magalang, I called to say we were near and instructed them to cook our food.

It was noon when we reached Abe's Farm and imagine how unbearable the heat was. The place is full of greens and trees but it's quite puzzling why these didn't help. Nevertheless, the traditional Filipino set-up is very unique. I love the homey feel of the place. It's like really being away from the city and relaxing in the province. Very peaceful and calming.
 
Here's what we had for lunch:

Binukadkad na Pla-pla with Balo-balo and Mustasa (P395)

Inihaw na Liempo (P295)

Spicy Sisig Pampanga (P175)

Kare-Kare Buntot Baka (P475)

Growing up in a household fond of Kapampanga food, I can say that all the dishes we ate are sumptuous. Very authentic Kapampangan taste. I especially love the binukadkad na pla-pla with balo-balo and mustasa. This dish is very Kapampangan. Many may not like balo-balo for its foul odour but it actually tastes good. It is a must-try if you're visiting Pampanga. (Balo-balo, also known as buro, is fermented rice with fish or freshwater shrimp.)

Each serving is good for sharing between 2-3 persons so dining in Abe's Farm is really recommended if you are in a group since you'll be able to save more and get to try different dishes.

I will cut this post here and make another post about the place itself. Stay tuned! :)

Baguio's Bet: Cafe by the Ruins

The last time I went to Baguio was approximately ten years ago. I was with my family and relatives and I couldn't remember if we ate at any of the restaurants there. So when I had the opportunity to go back this summer I was beyond excited.

We initially planned to eat at 50s Diner but the place was full and no one cared to assist us so we left. Our driver suggested Café by the Ruins and we agreed without second thoughts maybe because we were too hungry to look for another place.

Upon entering the restaurant, I immediately fell in love with the cozy ambiance. Wooden chairs and tables and paintings on the wall create that refreshing and comfortable vibe. The scent of freshly-baked bread made my stomach grumble.

The girls feasted on pasta and strawberry smoothie. Oh my, that smoothie is to die for! It is made of fresh carabao yogurt and real strawberries. Very refreshing at only P120.

Carbonara (P220)

 The boys, on the other hand, opted for a heavier meal. Not surprising at all, right?

Baguio Bagnet (P280)

Beef Ribs Sinigang (P250)

 

I wasn’t aware that Café by the Ruins is a vegetarian-friendly restaurant. Perhaps that explains why the food lacks the depth of flavor. Maybe they don’t use seasonings? They also don’t have soda on the menu.

Cinnamon is one of my favorite bread desserts so I ordered one to finish my meal. Sadly, I didn't like it. My sweet buds weren't happy as well, I guess. It just tasted bread with very little sweetness. How can something so tempting turn out to be distasteful?

Although I was quite disappointed with the food, I will come back for the strawberry smoothie. Have you dine at Café by the Ruins? How did you find the food?