It is a family - style restaurant, very casual, with food that brings memories of hometowns and favorite vacation spots.
That is the competitive advantage of Pico de Pino - the ambiance matches the menu. It has no pretensions except to offer a good meal that families can enjoy together.
The Space It is unique in a way. It is a restaurant carved out of a slope, making it look like a multi level dining area. It is not. Everything is on the ground floor. But the floor rises giving one a terrific view of the mountain.
The Ambiance. Rustic and also eclectic. Much like a typical Filipino home. There is no interior design theme. So there are no conversation pieces or master artworks. The food is the conversation piece. And perhaps that is the strategy.
The Food. There are no pretensions of modernizing or doing fusion. It is Filipino food cooked excellently. I attended a birthday party, and the celebrant ordered mostly best sellers.
Soup - broth in bulalo flavor. It warms your stomach and your palate.
Appetizer - green mango ensalada. That was heavenly because it was done simply.
Entrees - I took a full plate that is my version of the classic Surf and Turf. Shrimp, Fried chicken, Lengua with Mushroom, and Crispy Pata.
Delicious especially the Crispy Pata. My minor issue is the shrimp. It doesn't taste fresh (I can tell). But of course I realized that this is the Sierra Madre mountain, and therefore all seafood must have been frozen for days.)
Dessert. Now. Dessert! We had three. Tiramisu, Mango sticky rice, and Minatamis (sticky rice in honey). Sweet. I trusted my companions when they said they were delicious. I limit my sugar intake.
That was a great dinner.
The staff are courteous and friendly. Tita Glo is like a typical Tita who manages the bistro with motherly care.
My only issue is the lack of wine . Surf and Turf needs to be cleansed by red wine.
But I realized this is a family style restaurant. Most Filipino families don't have red wine at the end of the...
Read moreI recently had the pleasure of visiting Pico de Pino Cafe and I must say it exceeded all my expectations. This place is truly a gem for breakfast and coffee lovers. After a long drive/ride, I was in need of a refreshing break, and Pico de Pino Cafe provided just that.
The first thing that caught my attention was the breathtaking view of the mountains and the serene beauty of the surrounding pine trees. It was like stepping into a picturesque oasis. The outdoor seating area was simply fantastic, allowing me to soak in the natural splendor while enjoying my meal.
Speaking of meals, the breakfast options at Pico de Pino Cafe were nothing short of fantastic. The menu offered a wide variety of choices, from classic dishes to unique creations. Whether you're a fan of hearty breakfast burritos or prefer lighter options like avocado toast, there is something to satisfy every palate.
But what truly stole my heart was their coffee and hot chocolate. The baristas at Pico de Pino Cafe clearly know their craft. The coffee was rich, aromatic, and perfectly brewed, providing that much-needed morning pick-me-up. As for the hot chocolate, it was a velvety delight that warmed both my heart and soul.
The ambiance of the cafe was delightful. The staff was friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable, making my visit all the more enjoyable. The attention to detail in the cafe's decor and overall atmosphere added to the overall experience.
In conclusion, Pico de Pino Cafe is a great destination for breakfast and coffee enthusiasts. With its stunning views of the mountains and beautiful pine trees, it offers a truly unique and refreshing dining experience. Whether you're looking for a quick stop during a long drive or a leisurely morning retreat, this cafe is a must-visit. I can't wait to return and indulge in their delicious...
Read moreA Flavorful Delight at Pico de Pino in Rizal
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Pico de Pino in Rizal, and I must say, it was a truly delightful experience from start to finish. From the moment we walked in, the enticing aromas and warm atmosphere welcomed us with open arms.
First and foremost, the food at Pico de Pino is absolutely delicious. We decided to try a variety of dishes, and each one exceeded our expectations. The tocilog, chicksilog, tapsilog, and lugaw were all prepared to perfection, bursting with flavor and made with high-quality ingredients. Whether you're a fan of classic Filipino breakfast favorites or hearty comfort food, Pico de Pino has you covered.
To complement our meal, we ordered coffee, and let me tell you, it was the best cup of joe I've had in a long time. The rich and aromatic blend was the perfect pick-me-up, enhancing the overall dining experience.
The ambiance at Pico de Pino is superb. The cozy and inviting interior design creates a relaxing atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The thoughtful attention to detail in the decor adds a touch of sophistication without compromising on comfort.
What truly made our visit memorable was the exceptional service provided by Abby, our waitress. Her attentiveness, friendly demeanor, and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure our satisfaction made us feel like valued guests. Her genuine warmth and accommodating nature added an extra layer of enjoyment to our...
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