One of Tagaytay’s most anticipated culinary celebrations returns this weekend. The Tagaytay Food Festival 2025 brings with it not just flavors, but stories and a sense of connection. Now in its second year, the festival takes on a deeper purpose: to remind us of the power of food to bring people together. In a world that’s increasingly fast-paced and disconnected, this year’s theme, “Food That Binds,” puts the spotlight on food as a medium for gathering, storytelling, and meaningful connection.
Organized by Chef Rhea SyCip, co-founder of The Fatted Calf in Tagaytay, in partnership with SM Hotels & Conventions Corp., the event takes place at the iconic Taal Vista Hotel. A vibrant mix of hotels, restaurants, chefs, and local producers will unite to celebrate both culinary heritage and forward-thinking innovation. The festival offers a setting where tradition meets creativity, and where meaningful conversations often begin with a shared meal.
The celebration opens on Friday, 18 July 2025, with the Trade Place Farmers Market from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Covered Terrace. The market invites guests to explore fresh local produce, artisanal products, and specialty ingredients while supporting regional farmers and makers who are vital to Tagaytay’s culinary identity.
At 5:00 PM, the Drinks Fest sets a festive tone with handcrafted cocktails and refreshing beverages. Then at 6:00 PM, the spotlight turns to the festival’s signature event, the Grand Tasting, happening at Ballroom 1 and 2. Tickets are available for Php 3,950 per person.
The Grand Tasting will feature a curated selection of culinary destinations, including Anya Resort Tagaytay, Asador dos Mestizos, Binulo, Dos Mestizos, Elaia by Cyma, Farmer’s Table, Florita’s, Gorios, Hotel Monticello, Morgano Restaurant, Pamana, Papa Bolo, Reynaldo’s Smokehouse, Ribcon, Siglo, Slow Food Cavite, Taal Vista Hotel, The Fatted Calf, and Tsokolateria. Each establishment will present signature dishes that reflect their unique identity, allowing guests to experience a diverse range of flavors all in one night.
On Saturday, 19 July 2025, the festival continues with Food Talks from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Ballroom 1, offering deeper conversations with chefs, restaurateurs, and food advocates on the subjects of culinary culture, food heritage, and sustainability.
One of the featured speakers is Ms. Tisha Rianna I. De Belen, Senior Operations Manager – Food & Beverage of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp., who will deliver a presentation titled “Plate for the Planet – Sustainable Diner: A Key Ingredient for Sustainable Tourism.” Her talk highlights how diners themselves can become active participants in sustainability through thoughtful food choices.
At 12:00 NN, guests are invited to enjoy a Heritage lunch buffet at the Veranda Restaurant for Php 1,780 per person. The buffet features traditional Filipino dishes served in a setting designed to evoke comfort, nostalgia, and national pride. For those wishing to continue the culinary experience, the same buffet will also be available on Sunday, 20 July 2025.
To close out the weekend, Taal Vista Hotel presents Sunset Sessions at TĀZA Fresh Table from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Saturday, 19 July. Priced at Php 3,500 per person, this sunset event features fine wines, creative cocktails, a carving station, and live acoustic music. All of this takes place against the scenic beauty of Tagaytay, offering a relaxing way to reflect on the weekend’s events.
The Tagaytay Food Festival 2025 is more than just a celebration of great food. It is an opportunity to pause, gather, and reconnect over shared traditions and new experiences. With every plate served and every story told, it strengthens the ties that bind communities together.
For reservations and inquiries, guests may contact Taal Vista Hotel through email at reservations@taalvistahotel.com or call +63 2 7917 8225 for room bookings. For dining inquiries and table reservations, you may send an email to foodandbeverage@taalvistahotel.com or reach out via call or Viber at +63 945 976 6841.
