A hidden wonder of Cavite – Sonyas Garden

A hidden wonder at the heart of Cavite, Sonya’s Garden is now considered as one of the sought after destination restaurant near Tagaytay City. I was tagged along by my friend, William,  to visit the place. We planned it a long time ago and finally manage to fit it into our schedule. (Read: How to go commute to Tagaytay)

It was a Sunday, we hit the road after lunch via South Luzon Expressway. A short drive I can still consider that lasted for about less than two hours, that includes a short stopover at Starbucks along the road.

Sonya’s Garden offers a romantic garden dining and lodging experience. A hidden gem that could be a perfect venue for weddings, intimate gatherings, dates or even a proposal. Located on the other side of Taal Volcano, it gives a very unique and nature-inspired ambiance that will definitely capture the amazement of a city dweller.

With this kind of ambiance, visiting would really be an experience. And the food is something that really surprise me. I was expecting an elaborate and/or long line up of menu but didn’t expected that what they offer is a standard set menu on a regular basis. It was simple and straightforward that all you need to do is to just sit, relax and wait for the food to come out of the kitchen.

Every diner at Sonya’s Garden start off with a salad of greens—dill, nasturtium, oxalis, and arugula leaves handpicked from their very own garden—mixed with edible flowers in season.  It is partnered with a variety of garnishing, which includes fresh fruits, crispy broad beans, green peppercorns soaked in olive oil, and grated parmesan.

The dish will not be complete without having their secret salad dressing, personally concocted by Sonya (the owner) during her days as an expat in Europe. The combination of the salad and the dressing was perfect! The salad was already satisfying it made me almost full after eating.

The salad was followed by warm servings of freshly baked wheat bread hot from the oven of Sonya’s Panaderia, partnered with a variety of dips. I think Will was a regular in this place, for he tells that the breads were his grandma’s favorite.

Then there’s pasta with two choices of sauces: one was made from sun-dried tomatoes and the other was a creamy ensemble of chicken bits and mangoes, which probably would prefer by a sweet tooth. I personally love the latter.

Part of what makes Sonyas Garden a desired vacation spot for balik-bayans is the experience of dining in an idyllic English garden setting while indulging in the familiar taste of home. Sonya had also added more healthy entres’ to her feast, such as Roasted Chicken garnished with rosemary herbs and Salmon with capers.

Capping the meal with a  light and sweet dessert—Glazed sweet potato,  Banana rolls with sesame, Jackfruit, and a sinful home-made chocolate cake from the Sonya’s Panaderia, which was really perfectly paired with tarragon tea. By the way, the delicious bottomless freshly squeezed dalandan juice (green mandarin) was also served along the course.

Banana Rolls with Sesame & Jackfruit

Tarragon tea

Aside from the dining experience, one can also enjoy and try the Bed & Breakfast cottages that were named after different herbs planted in the garden. You can also visit the Panaderia & Country Store, and the Spa.

It was a short but memorable visit at Sonya’s Garden. I didn’t expected that something like this was tucked hidden in this place. I am so looking forward on trying out the cottages next time. Before going home, we passed by the Panaderia to buy some ‘pasalubong’ for Wil’s Grandma.

Pathway going to the Bed and Breakfast Cottages

Sonyas Garden

Barangay Buck Estate, Alfonso, Cavite, Philippines (near the vicinity of Tagaytay City, Philippines)  | For reservations, call or text the following numbers: | +63-9175329097 / +63-9175335140 / +63-9175231080 | mail them at: info@sonyasgarden.com

RATE: PhP 610 per person/Set (EAT ALL YOU CAN)

Menu served in sit down style.