It all started with a meager amount of money, but a balikbayan at that time, Mr. Ray Bueno was able to put up an antique store called Luma’t Bago, and from that sprung Bahay Ligaya Filipino Restaurant which specializes in regional cuisines.
Bahay Ligaya Restaurant. The name is very catchy as one may think it implies subliminal message, but according to Mr. Bueno, it was named after his lovely wife, Joy. Since they are specializing in Filipino Cuisine, they decided to translate it to our country’s vernacular. In addition, wait till you taste their specialties, then you would know that this restaurant really stand up for its name.
My recent visit with fellow food enthusiasts Glenn, Donver, and CJ was one of the best dining experiences I ever had as we are joined by the owners Mr. Ray and Joy Bueno to give us some insights about their restaurant.
The stories they shared are very informative and helpful but the highlight of the night was the food we feasted on. The generous servings of food coupled with the owners’ hospitality towards their customers are one of the reasons why you would definitely go home happy after a hearty meal at Bahay Ligaya Restaurant.
These are the food that graced our table.
Sizzling Bulalo
One of the best Sizzling Bulalo I ever had. The meat was so tender it literally falls of the bone. The sauce compliments the beef making it juicier and tastier than your usual Bulalo.
Manok Pandan with Special Sauce
Tender chicken wrapped in pandan leaves and fried into perfection. I have to agree with Glenn when he said that it is way better than your usual fried chicken. Every bite was bursting with flavor and when you dipped it in its Special Sauce, the savory flavor of the chicken will further intensifies you will definitely reach out for more.
Bulalo Pochero
Another stellar of a dish. We were told that they used a slow fire cooking process to tenderize the meat. The sauce was very flavorful and the vegetable used was so fresh and definitely not overcooked.
Crispy Hito in Mustasa Leaves with Burong Bulig
It was my first time to try this dish and although I was a little apprehensive about the Burong Bulig, when I tasted it, it was surprisingly pure delight. The smell wasn’t appetizing at all but the taste was so good it reminds me of my visits in the province where I get to eat the freshest and the most interesting food I ever tasted.
Grilled Liempo
A bite of this heavenly pork delight will give you a hint that it was well marinated with several spices that flavor will burst into your mouth that will tickle your palate.
Dininding
When the food attendant placed this dish on the table, the aroma of Bagoong (fermented fish) hits my nasal faculty in an instant. I love the fact that the vegetables were not overcooked therefore, you can still bite into its crunchiness. The Bagoong, although very aromatic does not overpower the entire dish, and the fried crispy pork on top place it top a notch.
Sizzling Pork Sisig
Tender bits of pork with hint of crunchiness, another addition to my list of best sisig in town. The smoky flavor adds a kick to its savory flavor.
At first glance, the restaurant may look intimidating owing to the fact that it is an offshoot of an antique store with patrons such as politicians, generals, celebrities, and some residents from White Plains, but price surprisingly ranges from 100php to 600php only. Not bad for servings which are good for 3 to 4 person.
Now, on to the desserts.
Tapioca
Tapioca pudding with coconut milk syrup sprinkled with crispy pinipig. It is not too sweet but equally tasty. The coconut milk is very creamy and the pinipig adds aromatic flavor in every bite.
Ginataan Bilo-Bilo
Now, this one is the classic. My favorite among the desserts that was served. Every spoonful made me nostalgic about my childhood. The right amount of sweetness and creaminess was so good I had couple of servings.
Buco Pandan
Another classic dessert but their version is way better because the used fresh Buco meat therefore the taste goes well with the cream.
Turon with Langka Jam
The langka jam really pulls this usual fare off. Highly recommended for those who does not want langka in their turon, try dipping into the jam, it’ll be an entire different experience of goodness.
Mango Pandango
Combination of fresh ripe mangoes, sago, sweet red kaong, milk, and cream. This one is very refreshing in the palate because of the ripe mango. Not too sweet as it looks, a perfect way to end a meal.
For our drinks we had Sago’t Gulaman, Fresh Ripe Mango Shake, and Green Mango Shake. Everything was very refreshing and tastes good.
Bahay Ligaya’s Menu offers wide variety of Filipino Cuisines. Nothing beats the feeling of total food trip with an ambiance as classic as one can get. One remarkable thing about the resto is that every table differs from each other since it is also a showcase of what Luma’t Bago Antique Store that offers. It is also important to note that the aside from the main dining hall inside, there’s also a big space outside where customers can eat to their heart’s content. There are separate smoking and non-smoking area. After dinner, you and your companion can choose from wide variety of liquor that they offer, since they are also a resto-bar. Another thing is that they offer free wi-fi for their customers.
Mrs Joy Bueno, a former flight attendant, personally trains their food attendants as to how they can properly cater to their customers’ needs with enthusiasm. Everyone in our group noticed how good looking and well dressed the food attendants are, and the way they treat their customers only illuminates how well trained they all are.
After a hearty feast of food, you can also take a trip to their Luma’t Bago Antique Shop which is a door away from the dining hall. I am sure that antique enthusiast or not will found themselves fascinated with every piece in the store.
If you are up for an authentic Filipino dish food trip, this restaurant is truly worth the visit. Open everyday from 11am to midnight, with ample and secured parking lot for maximum of 30 cars. Nice place, delectable food, excellent customer service, and very affordable. You can bring your family, colleagues, friends, anyone, and expect to have a wonderful and truly Pinoy experience in this restaurant.
Bahay Ligaya Restaurant / Luma't Bago Antique Store
#176 Katipunan Rd. Blue Ridge A
Quezon City Philippines
Contact No. 4397198 / 6473834
Look for Mr. Ray Bueno(corner Katipunan and Boni Serrano going to Blueridge)
*More of Bahay Ligaya Restaurant will be posted at The Strolling Spoon Food Blog
