Driving to Tagaytay on a weekend is nothing new but what I love about getting out of the Metro and braving the traffic is the growing list of restaurants in the area. My Country House is the newest addition to this area and one I will absolutely come back for. BETTER BURRATA Locally sourced burrata was served with roasted sweet beets, dalandan bits, fresh dill and mint, cucumbers, and pistachios During a recent weekend lunch, my husband and I had the pleasure of dining with distinguished company, including Australian Ambassador HK Yu and her husband, Fergus Murphy, as well as Raintree Hospitality’s Andrej Wisniewski and Myrza Sison. We started at noon and ended at four in the afternoon. The food was made even better by the quality of the conversations. Raintree Hospitality, known for its exceptional culinary concepts such as Jones All Day and Chotto Matte, made their debut in the Tagaytay dining scene with Farmer’s Table in 2021. Its success piqued interest from their neighbors residing in the charming country house next door. A TRUE WINNER The *Paella Negra*
The house, with its elegant furniture and spacious porch overlooking a vast garden, had been a cherished venue for Sunday lunches, weekend gatherings, and family events, but its use diminished after the pandemic. Recognizing its potential, the owners and Raintree collaborated to transform it into My Country House with a menu developed by chef Arnold Gozon and Raintree. The restaurant features a main dining area on the porch, offering guests a tranquil view of the lush garden. Additionally, tables have been set up in the garden itself, providing a delightful dining experience surrounded by nature. The restaurant is also home to three silky chickens affectionately named Ike, Tina, and Gonzo, adding a touch of rustic charm to the overall ambiance. The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere inspired a menu concept that elevates cherished heirloom dishes. Gozon, in collaboration with Raintree Hospitality, artfully combines classic heritage dishes with Western influences. AMBASSADOR APPROVED My Country House's fresh fruit pavlova received Ambassador Yu's approval
The Miso Bagna Càuda is such a great way to start your meal. Literally meaning “hot bath,” the dish, made popular in France and Italy since the 16th century, now uses Tagaytay-grown vegetables that one would eat with their miso-anchovy dip. The Burrata and Beets, a unique blend of sweet, creamy, and zesty flavors, impressed with its harmonious combination. The Lobster and Seafood Bisque *en Croute* was a personal favorite, offering a light yet flavorful bisque with a puff pastry topping that added a satisfying (and quite filling) touch. The *Paella Negra* and Chicken Relleno were also equally exceptional, bringing you back to the home of a favorite, well-travelled aunt who knew her way around the kitchen. For dessert, the Sticky Date Pudding and Fresh Fruit Pavlova stood out, with Ambassador Yu giving the latter her seal of approval. AN AFTERNOON AT MY COUNTRY HOUSE From left Raintree Hospitality's Andrej Wisniewski and Myrza Sison, Australian Ambassador HK Yu, the author, Alvin C. Malasig, and Fergus Murphy
My Country House has quickly cemented its position as a must-visit culinary destination in Tagaytay, offering a harmonious fusion of international and Filipino flavors within a charming setting. Whether you’re a local seeking a relaxing escape or a visitor eager for a scrumptious culinary adventure, it promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the best of country living and hearty, comforting cuisine.

Without a doubt, it is worth the journey through SLEX.

Sándor Petofi’s works translated

The Hungarian Embassy, in cooperation with the National Book Development Board (NBDB) of the Philippines, recently launched a book entitled *Hindi Pasisiil ang Pagsibol (It’s not possible to forbid a flower)*. The special commemorative anthology contains 20 Hungarian poems translated into six Philippine languages, featuring works of Sándor Petőfi, who is considered the foremost Hungarian poet. Hungarian Ambassador to the Philippines, Titanilla Tóth warmly welcomed guests to the event, highlighting similarities between Petőfi and our very own Dr. Jose Rizal. She also shared that the aim of the book’s publication is to foster closer ties between the Philippines and Hungary during the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries and in commemoration of the 200th anniversary of Petőfi’s birth. PHILIPPINES-HUNGARY @ 50 The two countries are celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations this year
The launch was attended by members of the diplomatic corps and friends of Hungary in the Philippines. DFA undersecretary Jesus Gary Domingo spoke on behalf of the Philippines, saying, “The written word has always held high regard for Filipinos, as evidenced by the selection of our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. He was a man who primarily sought to affect change through his writings and sparked an intellectual and cultural revolution, rather than a violent one. Though born in different times, as the Ambassador mentioned, they would be soulmates. I’m sure Dr. Rizal and Hungary’s own great poet and revolutionary Sándor Petőfi would have had great mutual respect for each other.”

Forever summer scents

Perfume launches this season have been pretty exciting. Despite being in the middle of a rainy spell, the beauty of living in the tropics is that summer scents will always be in fashion any time of the year. Luxasia recently held a preview of new releases from Ferragamo, D&G, Bulgari, and Kate Spade. Ferragamo’s Signorina Libera, a floral musky gourmand blend, is both alluring and light. Adorned with a yellow Vara Bow, it prominently sits in my vanity at the moment as I find myself reaching for it quite often. D&G’s classic Light Blue gets a citrusy update with Summer Vibes, while Kate Spade’s Chérie is a young, fruity scent exuding strong, feminine energy. For men, there’s Bulgari Man’s Rain Essence, which offers a clean, woody fragrance, a perfect scent to carry from the office to an evening’s diplomatic event.