A Tipple and Tasty Bites on the Rooftop at Takao Studios Coffee

An unexpected stop on the way back home from the south soon became an opportunity for a sneak peek at one of the newest dining destinations making quite a buzz on the net. That's no surprise when one of the best chefs in the country, Chef Mikel Zaguirre, is part of the culinary team behind Takao Studios Coffee.

Located at the Rooftop of Cabins by Eco Hotel along the Tagaytay-Nasugbu Hi-way, Takao Studios Coffee highlights an impressive selection of premium blends paired with a modern and inventive spin of traditional Japanese flavors curated by Chef Mikel Zaguirre. Simply walking up the steps with its inspiring quotes is already an indication of the unique experience at Takao Studios Coffee. 

The name is inspired by the local word describing someone who's always hungry but the team behind Takao Studios Coffee takes it a step further to mean someone hungry for new experiences, knowledge or achievements. It's a philosophy reflected in their tagline, "Always hungry. Sometimes foolish." And this is reflected not only with its cuisine but with its wide range of creative designs (check out their cool merch on their website, https://takaostudios.com/). 

The menu at Takao Studios Coffee is driven largely by its premium coffee selection and Japanese-inspired dishes curated by Chef Mikel Zaguirre with scenic views and the cool breeze as the setting for a refreshing tipple and a few tasty bites at the Rooftop. Coffee is always an integral part of the southern experience and Takao Studios Coffee is a welcome addition to the culinary scene of Tagaytay.

But first, a few cocktails to kick-off the unique Takao Studios Coffee experience. Start with some soothing libations for that much-needed break from the long drive...

...with a tempting line-up of alcoholic beverages including the Mango Elderflower Highball (P 300), Sushi Gari Highball (P 300), Dalandan Raspberry Sour (P 300), Orange & Lemon Sling (P 300), Tarragon Bitter Highball (P 300), Espresso Apple Highball (P 300) and Coco Macapuno Highball (P 300).  

Meanwhile, the fragrant aroma of coffee fills the air...

...best paired with the light yet hearty Takao Toast (P 280) with fried soaked pan de sal served with sweet syrup and a shot of espresso. A dip of the soft and delicately crisp fried bread in syrup brings both textural contrasts and indulgent flavors to the palate while a dip in the expresso offers deep, rich and bold notes. Simple, uncomplicated and even nostalgic yet playfully inventive, the Takao Toast at Takao Studios Coffee is just one of many dishes transformed by the culinary genius of Chef Mikel Zaguirre.

But if you're really hungry, the Ramen Takao (P 450) is recommended. A sumptuous tori buta paitan ramen served with savory chashu, fried menma, kikurage and rye noodles all made in-house, the Ramen Takao is guaranteed to satisfy any craving. The richness of the savory broth along with the freshness of the quality ingredients combine for bold and real flavors. You can customize your bowl by choosing your broth too. The Ramen Takao is available in Shio (salt), Shoyu (soy sauce), Miso (fermented soy bean) and Spicy Miso. But there's more on the menu at Takao Studios Coffee. I hear the Lengua Tendon Curry Udon (P 460), Gyudon (P 300), Buta Niku Don (P 300) or bacon steak and Chizu Tamago Sando (P 220) are also quite popular at Takao Studios Coffee. That means a return visit is in order. Soon...

Fun and even quirky, masterfully executed dishes with a creative flair by one of the country's best chefs, add Takao Studios Coffee to your list of dining destinations down south.