Whenever we would be in the Kapitolyo area, my cousins would recommend dining in Haru Susi Bar & Restaurant.  For some reason, we were not able to dine there but it sparked my mom's epicuriosity once again and we tried it one night when they had an available parking space.

The place is always full so we were quite delighted for the chance.

Upon reaching the entrance, we were told to wait a few minutes as they are still preparing our table.

We intended to have sushi by the sushi bar but it was still occupied so we decided to try that next time instead.

The atmosphere is different from all other Japanese Restaurants we've tried.  If only we weren't such a shy family, I bet it would have been fun to take our photo ops by their decors.

There were Japanese memorabilia that really give it a traditional Japanese vibe.  

From the parking area is a path way towards their extended area.

We passed by this room after our dinner. 

There were Japanese toys which reminded us of our childhood.


Brother had some of those when we were little.  But, unfortunately, they got lost when we moved to our new home. 

Food
Now, on with the food...

Dynamite Roll (269 php)

They say, you can't dine at Haru and not have sushi so we ordered the Dynamite Roll.  True enough, this is by far one of the best Dynamite Rolls we've tried!  This is their version of the sushi roll with spicy tuna, salmon, Japanese cucumber with a coat of tobikko.  We loved this so much that we ordered 2 more of this!

Crazy Roll (198 php)

The Crazy Roll which is a sushi roll with kani, ripe mango, cucumber with haikara flakes and topped with kani tossed with Japanese mayonnaise.  We loved the crunch factor brought by the haikara flakes but this was outshun by the Dynamite Roll.

Nabemono

Sukiyaki Large (605 php)

We ordered the Sukiyaki Large which exactly serves six bowls.  Mom was amused by the little quail eggs they added on each bowlful finding them to be quite cute.  We were impressed by their Sukiyaki which was served piping hot and not too sweet.   We also enjoyed the tenderness of the meat and the silky smooth tofu.


Yakimono/Robata-Yaki

Tori Shitake Hasayamaki (315 php)

The Tori Shitake Hasayamaki was just okay.  It didn't give us an impression of ordering it again anytime soon.

Ika Teppanyaki (375 php)

One of mom's strict consideration when ordering a Ika Teppanyaki is that it should be easy for her to mince.  This passed!

Oyster Teppanyaki (248 php)

What we all loved the most among our cooked dishes is the Oyster Teppanyaki.  We could tell that it was fresh and cooked with precision to keep it delicious sea flavors locked in.

Gohan

Fried Rice (80 php)

For staple, we ordered the Fried Rice.  I normally have no say when it comes to staples but this one stands out because of the crunchy vegetables.  We all had extra rice!
 
Tsinoy Foodies Verdict
Haru Sushi Bar popularity has already preceded this post and I can totally understand why.  Perhaps, the only set back is its steep price compared to other restaurants in the Kapitolyo area.  But, one should also consider that its premium food quality and its Japanese cuisine justifies their pricing.  I really do hope we could go back soonest to try their sushi bar. 

One of my little sister's friend from college is a Buddhist Taiwanese and he has long been recommending Caffe Dolce.

So one night, my mom once against drags as all out just to have some dessert and coffee there.  If you've been reading my posts... that is usual for my mom.

We were surprised upon reaching the mezzanine level that there is a cute and coffee cafe hidden therein.  


And despite being late for an ordinary night, there were numerous couples and groups who seem to be enjoying the comforts of the serene place.  Caffe Dolce also has an Al Fresco area.
While waiting for our orders, the family had fun taking photo ops with these teddy bears.

Cafe Selection

Marshmallow Caffe Hot (135 php)

The Marshmallow Caffe was enjoyed by my little sister.  The marshmallow adds a mellow tone of sweetness and a lovable puffy and creamy texutre. 

Rose Caffe Latte Hot (135 php)

My other sister chose the Rose Caffe Latte which she loved till the last sip.  It's fragrant rosy flavor and aroma complements their coffee well.

Caffe Jelly (135 php)

I had the Caffe Jelly which passed my picky standards.  The froth and jelly brings a liveliness to the coffee coffee.

Saint Petersburg Selection

Chamomile with Apple Hot (120 php)

Their pot of Chamomile with Apple is good for sharing.  I loved the combination of the real apple bits and refreshing chamomile tea.

Classic Tea Selection

Iced Pomelo with Peach (109 php)

My youngest sister who isn't much of a coffee and tea fan ordered the Iced Pomelo with Peach.  We were all thrilled when she finished this.  She rarely fully consumed what she orders.


Honey Toast Selection

♥ Chocolate Green Tea Honey Toast (209 php)

A must order for me in every Taiwanese Cafe is their honey toast.  My majority vote, we got the Chocolate Green Tea Honey Toast.  It was good but not the best we've tried.  The toppings were great but I guess it was the honey toast which could be better.

Tsinoy Foodies Verdict
When you're in the Banawe Area and looking for a place to relax, definitely give Caffe Dolce a try.  Their ambiance and drinks offers a unique cafe experience.  The price is affordable too.

Whenever I would go to Tagaytay, the first on my list would be Buko Pie and in addition, I'd buy Buffalo or Carabao Milk as pasalubong for the family.  Buffy's is located just beside Orient - The Original Buko Pie Shop so it's quite convenient for me to purchase there.

Their signage is big and eye-catching.

Inside, there's a dine in area.

Yes, they have a menu. But despite my numerous visits, I have yet to try it.

Carabao Pastillas

Carabao Milk (110 php)

To be honest, all buffalo or carabao milks I've tried taste just the same to me.  So I just buy whereever convenient.  The price is negiligible of course.  But, I think Mr. Moo which I've previously shared is a bit cheaper because it is merely a pop out store.  But, the service here is better because they ice the milk properly.  They also have ice creams and yogurt which I have yet to try.