Binulo: Authentic Kapampangan Cuisine in Tagaytay

Tagaytay foodies rejoice! Binulo, a restaurant specializing in Kapampangan cuisine, has opened its doors in Tagaytay, bringing a taste of the north to the south.

**Binulo Capampangan Kitchen in Tagaytay**

The Art of Binulo

The restaurant’s name itself is a nod to tradition. “Binulo” translates to “cook in bamboo,” a unique method tinvolves cooking food inside bamboo tubes over an open flame, imparting a distinct flavor to the dishes.

**Binulo is a** **traditional method of cooking food inside a fresh bamboo stalk** called “bulo.”

Bringing Pampanga to Tagaytay

Binulo is a beloved Kapampangan restaurant originating from Clark Angeles,

Cavite Rep. Aniela Tolentino and her partner, Augustine Roa decided to bring the rich culinary heritage of Pampanga to the scenic landscapes of Tagaytay. They opened the Tagaytay branch on June 13, 2024, ensuring the same level of flavor and authenticity found in Pampanga.

A Culinary Adventure

This new restaurant offers a vibrant exploration of Kapampangan cuisine, showcasing both classic favorites and unique specialties.

Fresh Takes on Familiar Delights

The Kare-Kare shines with its focus on fresh, natural ingredients. While some might crave a deeper richness, the clean flavors offer a lighter take on this beloved dish.

Stars of the Show

The Binukadkad na Hito is a true standout. The perfectly cooked catfish boasts a delightful contrast of crispy exterior and flaky interior. For a truly authentic experience, try the Sisig, capturing the essence of this sizzling staple, though it might be slightly milder than some versions.

A Symphony of Flavors

For a richer experience, pair the Murcon Capampangan with a bed of rice. And to cleanse your palate, the Pangat na Ulang offers a refreshing dance of clean, light flavors.

A World of Culinary Adventure

Feeling adventurous? Dive into the Kamaro, a crispy and flavorful Kapampangan dish featuring crickets! Enjoy it on its own or pair it with rice for a truly unique experience. You may also try the Batute, deep-fried stuffed frogs which are a Capampangan delicacy.

**Kamaro, fried exotic mole crickets (Php700)**

**Batute, deep-fried stuffed frog (Php550)**

Sweet Endings

Don’t miss the Tibuk-Tibuk dessert! This melt-in-your-mouth treat delivers a smooth, rich flavor that lingers long after the last bite.

A Welcoming Atmosphere

While some dishes might benefit from further refinement, the overall experience at Binulo Tagaytay is undeniably positive. The focus on fresh ingredients, unique offerings, and a light, relaxing atmosphere makes it a perfect destination for families seeking a memorable dining experience.

Beyond the Food

Binulo offers more than just a delicious meal. The light and relaxing atmosphere makes it ideal for families and gatherings. The stunning views and carefully curated artwork add to the overall ambiance.

A Conversation with Rep. Aniela Tolentino

We spoke with Rep. Aniela Tolentino to gain insights into Binulo Tagaytay:

What inspired you to open this restaurant?

Other than the delicious food, it all started with our love for showcasing the true identity of Kapampangan cuisine. A lot of the classic Pinoy dishes we all know and love actually originated from Pampanga! We wanted to bring those original versions, something you can’t find everywhere, to Tagaytay.

Do you support local?

Absolutely! We prioritize sourcing our fresh produce, like vegetables, from right here in Tagaytay to support local farmers. There are some special ingredients though, like the kind of rice used in our tsokolate’t duman, that can only be harvested once a year in Pampanga. For those, we gotta go straight to the source to keep things authentic. We even feature some exotic delicacies like frog and cricket dishes, which are true to Kapampangan cuisine.

What sets your restaurant apart from similar establishments within the area?

Tagaytay has a lot of Filipino restaurants, and many serve similar dishes. What sets Binulo apart is the focus on authentic Kapampangan cuisine. We don’t cut corners on our ingredients – like using real ground peanuts in our Kare-Kare. We even showcase the traditional bamboo cooking method in some dishes for a truly unique experience.

What’s the most important quality you look for when you hire staff?

Honestly, it’s the determination to learn. All of our staff are from Tagaytay and Cavite, and all of our dishes are Kapampangan. So, we look for people who are eager to learn and have a real enthusiasm for this cuisine. It’s also important for them to have a passion for educating our customers and sharing their love for the food we offer.

Any tips for would-be restaurant entrepreneurs?

It’s not easy, there are many ups and downs. It’s so easy to give up, especially in those first two or three years. They’re the hardest and feel like a test of your commitment to the industry. My only advice is to be patient and never stop working hard.