Sulyap Gallery Cafe: A Must-Try Restaurant In San Pablo City

Do you ever wish to travel back in time? I sometimes do. Whenever I get a chance to visit the countryside, I stop by and look at some historical sites in the area. I am fascinated with ancestral houses and old churches because it features our ancestor’s unique talents as they personify our values and cultural identity.

Traveling back home from Dolores Quezon, we decided to have lunch along San Pablo City after visiting Saint Paul the Hermit Cathedral. I asked the locals about the nearest and best restaurant in the area, and they recommended Sulyap Gallery Cafe. 

Upon entering the gated compound, I already felt the serenity of the place. The tall trees and beautiful outdoor plants provide fresh air in the surroundings. The old house structures made me feel like visiting a grandmother’s house.

THE RESTAURANT:

It is a two-story Spanish Colonial house, restored and turned into a restaurant. Its location is on the left side of the entrance gate.

The restaurant offers outdoor dining in its lovely garden with a gorgeous fountain at the center. It gives a calming feeling just by looking at it while enjoying the food. And since we were seated on the patio, I was delighted to hear the sound of the water rushing through the fountain.

The ancestral house turned restaurant features antique furnishings and decor that everyone will appreciates . The wide-open capiz windows provide cool, fresh air instead of an aircon. The intricate woodwork design at every corner of the house adds to the captivating aesthetic of the place. It has a nostalgic and homey ambiance.

THE FOOD: There is always something to reminisce about this place. Even the food reminded me of my youth. They serve home-cooked goodness that you get to eat when you are on a summer vacation. They serve sumptuous traditional and modern Filipino Cuisine in a gorgeous setting.

Sweet Potato Fries – They sprinkled it with a small amount of salt, and it does taste a little like french fries but on the sweet side. It is crisp on the outside yet soft on the inside. The bacon dip adds flavor to the fries, but on its own, it tastes good.

Pancit Hab hab – This tasty Filipino comfort food was originally from Lucban, Quezon. When serving, they use banana leaves which add an aromatic smell to the dish. The noodle’s texture was just right, topped with a generous amount of grilled pork belly and vegetables. Different flavors burst into the mouth, especially with a splash of spiced vinegar.

 

The Pan-fried Tanigue Steak in olive oil served in lemon butter is a must-try for a healthier option. It has a tangy and salty taste served with carrots and sayote. The fish is perfectly cooked, flavorful, nutritious, and very satisfying.

Pork Sinigang – This sour and savory dish is one of the most loved Filipino comfort food. It is my daughter’s favorite dish, so I asked her to give her comments. She said the soup is thick, with succulent pork meat and a perfect sour taste. She adds that the Pork Sinigang at Sulyap Gallery Cafe is the best tasting.

Sorbetes de Turon– Sorbetes (ice cream) and Turon (Fried Banana wrapped in pastry sheets) are simple desserts. I used to eat this now and then, but it looked appetizing when I saw this from the other table; therefore, I ordered one. The hot Turon goes very well with the ice cream. Eating this simple dessert in one bite makes it a bit more special.

Banana Con Hielo – This classic potassium-rich dessert is also a favorite. It reminded me of my youth when I used to eat it in the neighborhood store with my friends during summertime. Its ingredients are finely shaved ice, sweetened banana bits, and milk. The ice cream toppings gave a rich flavor to the dessert.

When we finished our lunch, we took a leisurely walk within its premises, particularly in the beautiful garden. There is a Boutique Hotel and an old house to accommodate guests who like to experience a different kind of stay in a hotel. The ambiance here is calming and peaceful.

Sulyap Gallery Cafe also has a museum that houses the owners’ antique collections but unfortunately, it is still closed due to the pandemic.

The good points:

• All the dishes are good for sharing.
• No Service Charge
• They accept all major credit cards
• Very good ambiance
• With a great selection of food and is reasonably priced
• The staff at the reception was polite & helpful, and the wait staff was attentive, responsive, and courteous.
• The restroom is clean and has a relaxing feeling too because of the bamboo plants inside. The exposed ceiling provides a better flow of air.
• The structures were all well-maintained.
• Spacious parking area.

The not-so-good points:

• The waiting time is too long, especially during peak hours.
• Customers in a wheelchair cannot go up to the second floor since they do not have a lift for PWD or the elderly.

Overall, we had a great meal and a wonderful time. We were able to get a glimpse and taste of the past at this beautiful restaurant. We will be back if given another opportunity to visit this area. I will recommend this place to my friends and officemates.

Location: Brgy Del Remedio Cocoland Compound, San Pablo City, Laguna

Contact Number: +63 49562 9735

Operating hours: 10 AM to 8 PM

Stay safe everyone!