Antonio's : Why It Will Always Be Special

When I was in college, I dreamed of settling down. Of marrying a prayerful man and of having my own child. Those dreams I shared with the people whom I spent my college life with. The friends I kept in my heart and whom, after graduation, I didn't see anymore because of how busy our lives have become.

Last Saturday, these friends, whom I was only able to get in touch with through Facebook, shared with me a fun afternoon of reminiscing, imagining and enjoying each others company.

Maja and Gina are two of my closest pals in college. Aside from borrowing notes from each other, we shared stories of hardships and triumphs over our stressful Peyups life. We belonged to the group of students who only have three things in mind: school, home and school. I remember those days when we have to be cautious on how much we'll spend for lunch, because we still need to have a book photocopied. And those days when we have to walk to our next class, skipping the jeepney ride to save up. Every centavo counts! Well it all paid up. Looking back, we can't be thankful enough at how our lives have become. Maj has a stable job, Gina has settled down in New York with her husband (whom she shared a very colorful lovestory with. Those who need advise on long, as in LONG, distance relationship should talk to her and his hubby).

Reunited after almost nine years of just stalking each other on Facebook

Our get together was extra special because it was held in a place that is very close to my heart :)

Antonio's 

http://antoniosrestaurant.ph/antonios/

Antonio's play a special role in my married life. Here was where, almost five years ago, the then boyfriend (now hubby) popped the magic question. I kept a post of that day's story in the now defunct -- Multiply. Bummer! Anyway, just to give you an idea of what happened -- well he told me to dress up for a dinner at Taal Vista. Unfortunately, on our way to Tagaytay, he got an sms from Antonio's (which I opened and read because he was driving) confirming our dinner reservation. Bisto! Then, we arrived at Antonio's an hour before it opens for dinner. All throughout our dinner, I had no idea he was proposing. Well, I was actually teasing him that he should have brought a ring and used that occasion to pop the question. Little did I know that he was keeping a small box, with the ring, inside his sock since we left Manila.

This is the actual spot where I said "Yes" to forever. The magical moment that changed everything!

Many Filipinos consider Antonio's as the #1 restaurant in the Philippines and as it has always been on the Top 20 of the Miele Guide's Top 20 Restaurant in Asia. Dining is usually cozy and quiet and by reservations only. Five years ago, fine dining only opens from 6pm onwards for dinner. At daytime, they serve all-day breakfast. Now, menu for lunch and dinner are the same and the all-day breakfast is available at Breakfast at Antonio's. Food is a little bit pricey but the experience is all worth it :)

Here's what I had on that day. You just need to choose an entree - salad, soup and dessert is already included in the meal. Special tip: You need to try their freshly squeezed dalandan juice (not in the photo)! It gave me plenty of trip to the toilet but still, I will not hesitate to gulp another liter :)

Clockwise from top left: Antonio’s House Salad,
Soup of the Day (I forgot the name), Grilled Certified Angus Prime Ribeye Steak (with Pomery Spatzle with Pancetta) and Flourless Chocolate Cake

What I love about Antonio's is the ambiance. It's very private and intimate and the service is really fantastic with well-groomed and polite staff who will assist you in everything you need. Also, in the two occassions that we have been there, the owner -- Chef Escalante -- graced our table and spent time checking each guests experience. 

More photos from our visit last weekend :)

This wall made me want to buy more frames at home!

Flowers in bloom #nofilter

One of my favorite corners at Antonio's!

View from the washroom window.

Lovely pavements

One of the dining areas at the restaurant

Good Things Happen To Those Who Wait

Me and my two good friends could attest to that. We waited, and studied hard. We burned all the eyebrows thay we can burn! Haha :) It wasn't an easy journey but we all came out of the tunnel triumphant! Hence, a happy, fun and colorful lunch last Saturday.

Same thing goes to my marriage, we waited, and prayed! The Lord will give you the things you need in His time. And in our case, He let the then bf to propose at this place. And the rest -- is history :)

Antonio's
Purok 138, Barangay Neogan
Tagaytay City, Batangas
Philippines
Website
+63 (917) 899.2866
+63 (918) 899.2866