On a Saturday morning, I had to wake up earlier than my normal Saturdays for a culinary tour in San Pablo Laguna together with a few bloggers. I came home late the night before that. Arrived home at 1 in the morning and fell asleep on my bed at around 2am. In short, my sleep wasn’t what you call “beauty sleep”. Felt uneasy before sleeping, having on my mind that I might not be able to wake up on time. Mothers truly know best. My mom knew my plans for the day. She went to my room and woke me up 2 minutes before my clock was supposed to alarm. I know I should be thankful for her. But I was pissed at first because in my mind, “sayang ang 2 minutes of sleep!”. Haha! But again, I was reminded and rebuked by God that I should be thankful for my mom. If it wasn’t because of her, I wouldn’t experience this remarkable culinary tour in Casa San Pablo, Laguna. 

The pretty girls of Breakfast Magazine invited me to join them in Casa San Pablo. How can I resist and say ‘No’ to their invitation? I’m always game when it comes to out of town trips, especially if what we’re dealing here is my favorite topic, “Food”.

About 3 hours on the road, with a 10-minute stopover break. From Taft, Manila to Casa San Pablo didn’t cramp our backs and buttocks. The trip didn’t feel that long because of our conversations in the vehicle. I was seated beside Joan of The Food Alphabet and Stacy of Crumpylicious. 

The first view we glanced upon was the swimming pool for guests of San Pablo. This view welcomed us, the photo seen above, when we stepped out of the car. 

We crossed the bridge from the parking lot. While crossing, I saw from above that the bridge had tiny horizontal holes. It gave me the alertness to hold my camera firmly and tightly. That was my main concern more than myself. Haha! 

The group was asked to enter this cozy dining hall filled with wooden furniture and frames, where I feel like breakfast is best to be eaten in here. I know that San Pablo is a 3 to 4-hour drive from home but being inside the vicinity of Casa San Pablo impressed on me that I was still at home. The tranquil ambiance epitomize what “home” is all about. One more thing, there is free WiFi in this area. Now that is comfort for me as a blogger!

Before having our culinary tour, Mr. Boots Alcantara brought us to 2 of the 18 rooms they have in Casa San Pablo. What’s unique in Casa San Pablo is their uniquely designed and themed rooms. Each room is distinct. The first room we checked out was like a room specially designed for boys. A collection of Hot Wheels cars displayed all over the room. If I was the guest, I wouldn’t mind staying in the room and playing with those toys. Haha! Too bad those cars were framed and cannot be opened. 

I reminisced my childhood days because of that room. My dad used to buy me Hot Wheels, RC cars and other toys for boys. I was that girl who collects Barbie dolls but would rather play with cars. Haha! 

On another note, we entered the next room, which was a bit girly and artsy for me. Frames displayed were sketches of women and emotions. According to Mr. Boots, it’s an ideal room for couples. In case the couple fights, arguments can be settled by one of them sleeping on that other bed. :)) 

Mrs. An Alcantara felt like our modern mother dearest as she used her iPad while sharing the story of Casa San Pablo. Serene environment, clean air and bright sun, set the mood for a storytelling time. 

In that short span of time, my brain felt expanded with all the facts and lessons I’ve learned from Mrs. Ann. Talagang you would pay attention when either she or Mr. Boots speak about Casa San Pablo. The passion and drive to turn their resources into a successful business inspired me as an individual. 

I also like what she said about nourishing our very own Coconut. Words coming out of her mouth about making the most out of our Filipino products influenced me to patronize our very own. Looking elsewhere wouldn’t lead you to anywhere. The family of Mr. Boots Alcantara didn’t look elsewhere but made use of what they have. They maintained coconut trees in their large and rich property, which was an ancestral treasure of their family. 

Right after the storytelling, while the sun was still up and bright, the Breakfast Team and bloggers were taken on a tour around the beautiful land of Casa San Pablo. 

Mrs. Ann broadened our knowledge on their favorite topic – Coconuts. An introduction was given about the stages of the Young Coconut. 

What do you think that drink is? Can you take a quick guess?

Well, we had a shot of this famous Filipino drink. 

This shot is what you call, “Lambanog”.

For those who are alien to Lambanog, it’s our Filipino version of Tequila shots. I found it strong, for my taste buds, especially it was done during the morning! WOW feeling after taking a shot. My throat was in deep heat. Yayks! 😐 No chaser after one shot! 😐 (Buko juice pleaaaase!)

Thank you lord, the next stop was getting a glass of fresh Buko Juice. Now this is what you call a morning drink. That Lambanog was deadly for my weak alcohol tolerance. 

Meet Mr. & Mrs. Alcantara. 

Inside the old coconut. Got a spoon for myself. 🙂

Subsequent to our Coconut tour, the hosts took us inside an air-conditioned room, which was badly needed after the sunny and sweaty weather outside. The long dining table set-up was impressive. Another homey ambiance brought by Casa San Pablo’s cozy wooden interiors. 

First dish of the day, still deals with coconut. Haha! Got to try Casa San Pablo’s freshly-made hot Buko Pie. Crust was tempting me to get another slice after the first one. Haha! I hope they sell these in Manila. I would love to get one box for my family! 🙂 

Hot Asado Pandesal made my breakfast even better. Oh how I love Pandesal in the morning! I miss the old school hot pandesals in brown paper bags. 🙁 I prefer unbranded pandesals than branded ones. More legit for me.

Stay tuned because this is just the first part of my Casa San Pablo Culinary tour. 🙂

Cheers,

Location: Barrio San Roque, San Pablo, Laguna, Philippines

Contact: [email protected]

Website: http://www.casasanpablo.com/

Budget: Varies (visit Casa San Pablo website for their rates)

Rate: 9/10