We recently discovered a newly opened Ilocano specialty restaurant in Pagsanjan, Laguna. The place is called Balai Ilocos. It's a given, expect authentic Ilocano dishes like bagnet, pinakbet, longganisa, igado etc.. Yes I admit, I am carnivorous :-), so having a bagnet on their menu is something I am looking forward to.
Two Thumbs up for Customer Service
It's Valentine's Day and decided to try B.I. first for lunch before heading to Cavinti for the last day of the Cavinti International Water Sports Olympics. I am expecting a lot of people since it is Valentine's day, and so I thought that having a table reserved for us is a good idea. I texted them for a reservation and received a call after a few minutes to confirm my reservation for a table of 6. Impressive "plus pogi points" for customer service.
We arrived at the place with a feeling of someone is really expecting and waiting for us. That same feeling when my in-laws were already waiting for us at our gate every time we are scheduled to visit them once or twice a month in Pakil.
I can only say good words in terms of customer service for B.I. The all-male staff, from the parking attendant, to the waiters to the chef up to their owner who happens to be a Bangladesh National but very Filipino "sa isip, sa salita at sa gawa" will make your B.I experience truly memorable.
The Menu
We ordered the following : (1) Di makakalimutang Mechado; (2) Sinigang ni Maximo; (3) Bagnet; and (4) Pinakbet. The food is great but do not expect something that has a twist to it or something to rave about. The experience of having it home cooked straight from your grandmother's kitchen is really something to look forward too. Did I just said na "di ko makalimutan yung mechado?". It truly lives up to its name.
If you have guests who's been craving for Filipino dishes, then this is the place to be.
The Place
Two Thumbs up for Customer Service
It's Valentine's Day and decided to try B.I. first for lunch before heading to Cavinti for the last day of the Cavinti International Water Sports Olympics. I am expecting a lot of people since it is Valentine's day, and so I thought that having a table reserved for us is a good idea. I texted them for a reservation and received a call after a few minutes to confirm my reservation for a table of 6. Impressive "plus pogi points" for customer service.
We arrived at the place with a feeling of someone is really expecting and waiting for us. That same feeling when my in-laws were already waiting for us at our gate every time we are scheduled to visit them once or twice a month in Pakil.
I can only say good words in terms of customer service for B.I. The all-male staff, from the parking attendant, to the waiters to the chef up to their owner who happens to be a Bangladesh National but very Filipino "sa isip, sa salita at sa gawa" will make your B.I experience truly memorable.
 |
| with Balai Ilocos owner, Bangladesh National with a Filipino heart, Mr. Francesco Miguel |
 |
| Familia Gana lakwatsera |
The Menu
We ordered the following : (1) Di makakalimutang Mechado; (2) Sinigang ni Maximo; (3) Bagnet; and (4) Pinakbet. The food is great but do not expect something that has a twist to it or something to rave about. The experience of having it home cooked straight from your grandmother's kitchen is really something to look forward too. Did I just said na "di ko makalimutan yung mechado?". It truly lives up to its name.
If you have guests who's been craving for Filipino dishes, then this is the place to be.
The Place
I am really a fan of themed restaurants, so I will be biased with this review. :-) The "house" reminded me of our old house before. I can still remember that big capiz windows, old photos, fine antique plates, mason jars and narra furniture. You can really feel the "past" in the interior.
The place is also a nice backdrop for a photo sesh and I love that idea of the photo wall which will make you really feel at home. The homey feeling doesn't makes you feel like a customer but as a "bisita" or guest of honor.
I love materials made form wood and the narra dining sets and cabinets makes me drool.
I will definitely be back soon and bring my foodie friends with me. To know more about Balai Ilocos, check their contact details below :
Address : #760 JP Rizal St., Pagsanjan, Laguna
Contact Details : 0917-5819041 / (049) 501-0828
Opens : 10:00 am - 9:30 pm
