I’ve read a lot of good reviews about Chef Tatung’s and most recent of which was Ken’s of Certified Foodies. Since he loved the food, I might as well take his word for it. And you know what, I’m glad I did.
So I called the troop and told them to dress up as we were having lunch somewhere. My son wanted Japanese food which he obviously won’t be getting that day and my little girl wanted to stay home and watch cartoons. But I told them to get their butts moving as I was hungry. They had no choice. This is just one of the perks of being the only adult in the house. They have no choice but to follow you. Or else…
So off we went to Sikatuna Village. I didn’t have any trouble finding the place. Although I’m not a resident, I know UP, Teacher’s and Sikatuna villages like the back of my hand.
We got there before lunchtime so we were the first ones again. There’s an ongoing construction at the front of the house that would soon be a parking lot for guests and patrons. So it seems business is doing good. That’s a sign that food at Chef Tatung’s is really good. And we were right.
Chef Tatung’s serves Filipino food with a twist. It’s surprising to know that Chef Tatung never went to a culinary school. He’s self-taught and dishes he serves at his resto home are heirloom recipes he tweaked a bit. So what you get are traditional dishes made even more flavorful and more appetizing.
MG at Chef Tatung’s Garden Cafe
Chicken Sisig Lettuce Wraps with Mango Sauce
I love this dish. It really tasted like Pork Sisig complete with ginger and onions. But what I loved best was the mango sauce. It was sweet and tangy at the same time. Perfect combination.
Chef Tatung’s Fried Rice
Tamarind-Glazed Butterflied Tilapia
My son loved this dish. The fish was big so we didn’t get to finish it. The skin was crispy that MG thought it was chicharon.
Chicken in Roasted Coconut and Yellow Ginger Sauce
I love that the chicken was grilled and there was cilantro. I love any dish with cilantro.
Kids thought I made the right decision to eat at Chef Tatung’s.
Done here but look at the left-overs. The serving here is big. The waiter said that dishes are good for 3-4 persons but judging from what they served, portions can serve a family of 5 or even 6. We were so full that there was no more room for dessert.
I love the cafe interior as well. There’s a lot of interesting knick-knacks in every corner.
an old camera
miniature “baul”
I don’t know what this is but sure looks scary. Perhaps, some demi-god.
a pair of ancient shoes
Main dining area at Chef Tatung’s Garden Cafe
MG with Chef Tatung
Looking forward to another lunch here and try out other dishes such as the Adobo Bisaya, Slow Roasted Pork Sinigang, Shrimp Okoy and of course, the Halo-Halo and Warm Tsoknut Chocolate Cake for dessert.
CHEF TATUNG’S GARDEN CAFE
17 Matipid St. Sikatuna Village, Quezon City
Tel nos. (632)3526121 / 09158463234
[...] understatement. The place is perhaps as interesting as the chef owner. I already know that the food is amazing. Too bad we didn’t get a chance to talk to Chef Tatung and ask him the [...]
As always, the pictures look great and the food look oh so yum!
I am salivating as I read.. 
You always have the best foodie adventures.. 