Chefography: Claude Tayag of Bale Dutung

within the large fields of Central Luzon, there are great finds of culture, heritage and most especially food. following a great morning of Christmas spirit of Keso de Gallo, we headed to Angeles, Pampanga for another batch of great breakfast at Bale Dutung.

the place is owned by Chef Claude Tayag. other than being a great cook, he is also an artist and an architect. he designed Bale Dutung himself together with his loving wife, Mary Ann. the place is really welcoming and despite it is inside a subdivision, you might assume that you are in the middle of green fields because air flows nicely throughout the place. adding to the nice atmosphere are the wooden furnitures made by Claude Tayag himself.

when we arrived at the place, we are welcomed with a cool drink to revive our senses and appreciate the whole thing that Bale Dutung has to offer. later on, a warm sip of Tsokolate Batirol matched with San Nicolas cookie started an even better breakfast.

then, we feasted warm and heavy but delicious dishes of Bale Dutung. their Dinuguan, tamales and suman really almost completed my whole stay at Pampanga. i have never tasted Dinuguan like how Chef Claude has prepared it. he added kamias on the dish making it a little sour but it's still yummy.

we also had a little tour around Bale Dutung to explore the artistry of Chef Claude. unusual artworks but portraying the rich culture of Pampanga is shown in his paintings.

Bale Dutung is located at:
Paul St. corner Francis St., Villa Gloria Subdivision, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines

not everyone might be able to get to Bale Dutung for it has strict policies on reservations. you may opt to have your reservation by emailing claudetayag@yahoo.com.ph and enjoy the warm hospitality of Chef Claude and his wife.