June 6βIt was Louie’s birthday and as much of a romantic as he is, he brought us to Vieux Chalet, a fine dining Swiss restaurant in Antipolo bustling with great Filipino hospitality, coziness, and fresh air to breathe matched with a stunning view of the city. Vieux Chalet means “home on top of a mountain,” and true enough, getting there was like finding a hidden treasure on top of a mountain with tropical lush lot. We took delight in a picturesque perfect view of the sunset and the city skyline. π
Antipolo has a lot of unique restaurants where you can have a quick escape from the busy city of Manila and enjoy fresh air and great landscapes. Sometimes it gets me thinking to spend staycations there or even rent out a unit like in The Nest Horizon to experience Antipolo even for a weekend. Luljetta’s Hanging Gardens Spa, Altaroca Mountain Resort, and CafΓ© Lupe Bed and Breakfast are some of the more popular getaway destinations. Anyway, here goes my post about our dining experience at Vieux Chalet.
Review of Vieux Chalet Swiss Restaurant (Santa Cruz, Antipolo City)
Ambiance:Β β β β β β
In 1984, Mr. Tony S. Hassig and Mrs. Susan R. Hassig opened their home to people in search of an adventure not too far away from their own homes. The dream was to put up something that offers an alternative lifestyle to those needing a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Indeed, Vieux Chalet felt like a relaxing old home, with a stunning view to wake up to, and thousands of sunsets to watch and ponder on. This restaurant left our visual senses satisfied, as it’s certainly a charming escape from Manila that’s worth the almost two-hour drive.
Apart from the restaurant, there are three rooms for couples to stay and a swimming pool to play and splash in.
In the dining room, we sat by the window to have a closer look and make sure we won’t miss any of the admirable sunset view and the surrounded beauty. Serenely rustic elegant ambiance hugged the scene, with lots of family pictures and interesting displays and decors on the walls. Jackets and heavy clothing are not required as the restaurant is open-air and there’s no AC. When sun went down, we saw the city in great panorama and enjoyed the breeze in the air. A jewel in Antipolo City, Vieux Chalet Swiss Restaurant is an epitome of feel-good, convivialΒ fine dining. I hope its appeal never dims.
Service:Β β β β β β
Service was unparalleled as Rico Doy pampered us and kept us company like friends visiting their home. He was above-and-beyond friendly, gracious and on-cue in accommodating our questions and requests. He’s also too kind to give us the Frozen Lemongrass Margarita (see below) free of charge, since the staff intended to prepare drinks that time has not yet arrived and it was his first time to prepare the said drink. π
Food:Β β β β β β
A basket of bread and Fita crackers came as complimentary appetizer. The pieces were well-composed, with crisp exterior and tender crumb, and hearty enough to open our appetite for more coming up.
After 20 minutes of waiting time, Vieux Chalet’s feast of homemade goodness, the Swiss Platter (PhP 485) was served. It consisted of smoked ham, smoked bacon, homemade ricotta cheese, pate de foie, tomato provencal, shrimp gambas, and organic micro greens, with homemade bread and butter.Β I thought it’s a great introductory dish to Swiss cuisine because it had one of everything recommended for hors d’oeuvres. The best? Hands down, it was the shrimps, which according toΒ the menu should really have been pink salmon, but the latter was unavailable that time. The juiciness of the tomatoes also sealed a good deal. Yum!
Cheese pizza isn’t something we would normally get excited about, but the Five-Cheese Grilled Pizza (PhP 725, Petit)Β here made us want to hit the floor. We were informed thatΒ thisΒ pizza would beΒ made from scratch, and we had to wait half an hour to have it served. 20 minutes passedΒ andΒ we happily ate the pizza for an hour. Weβre not sure how the combination of raclette, GruyΓ¨re, mozzarella, kesong puti, and cheddar cheese made a good harmony,Β but it legitimately blew our minds. Thereβs also garlic on a tangy cream cheese topped with organic arugula, allΒ underneath the the crispy pizzaΒ crustΒ that will make you sweat and tear with joy. So CHEESY, so good. π
Rico handed us his custom-made hot sauce as a condiment to the pizza. I had the mistake of pouring too much on my first try, and I had to cool my mouth with enough air pressure to “blow dry.” Rico’s homemade extra hot Hot Sauce was insanely hot, the kind of spiciness that could almost take away the flavor of the food.Β I should have learned from the label ’cause it’s so true; it can make you say “Dimunyu!” out loud, as your tongue would be on fire. Aw!
We wanted to order more however we were too full to have a second main course. Thankfully, dessert options were not a letdown. The Swiss Chocolate Cake a la mode (PhP 285) was made with homemade SwissΒ chocolate cake, chocolate glaze, and homemade chocolate ice cream. It lasted maybe two minutes before it was fully engulfed into it’s new home, our bellies! π As far as chocolate cakes go, this one is the ultimate in decadence. So if there’s a better way to say “I love you” through sweets, this would be it.
To cool and cleanse the palate, the Lemongrass Cooler (PhP 145) had a refreshing and perky flavor of lemongrass that’s a bit more fun than your average lemonade or a lemon lollipop in iced tea.
With alcohol content, on the other hand, the Frozen Lemongrass Margarita (PhP 325) had a subtle hint of tonic’s bitterness and the tangy and sweet qualities of lemongrass complementing and enhancing one another. The sugar found on the mouth of the glass brought another sweet element that helped connect the citrus flavor in the cocktail.
Price for Value:Β β
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Vieux Chalet Swiss Restaurant in Antipolo has an elaborate menu of Swiss food and extraordinary drinks served by a deft team in swish environs. No surprise, it has garnered a top spot honors in the city. Though prices of items are expensive, admirers like us will insist that a “magical” and romantic meal should not only be based on food but rather the entire dining experience.
Dining here can be a splurge but when you’re looking to impress, it doesn’t disappoint. As Mrs. Susan R. Hassig says, “Vieux Chalet is not just a restaurant; it’s your Home Swiss Home in the Philippines.” With that, price for value is quite agreeable.
Operation hours:
Every day except Wednesdays and Thursdays, 9AM to 10PM
About Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco
Health and technology freak. Food and lifestyle blogger with a large appetite for food and travel.
What a great review and this Chalet Swiss restaurant looks exactly the place I would love to enjoy all of this yummy food!
Great smiles in the photo that brightened my day!
Thanks, Joanne! You’re almost always the first to comment on my posts. I really appreciate your responses. Hope you can one day visit this Swiss restaurant in Antipolo and enjoy their food as well as the lovely ambiance! π
My jaw dropped when I saw the five cheese grilled pizza. what beauty!
It was recommended by Sir Rico and we’re glad that it didn’t disappoint. The cheeses used to make the pizza were invariably first-rate.
I would love to visit there and I would definitely love to try the Swiss Chocolate Cake a la mode! I am a choco-holic! Is there a specific time of the year that is ideal to visit?
I think that it’s more ideal to visit during this time since summer is almost over and it’s not yet the start of heavy rain season. Bring a date and you’ll be sure to get big value for money. π
I love the review. The place is so colorful. With the pool in the back it looks like a home where you are invited for a dinner or something.
Thanks, Kita. π Yes, I can imagine hosting a pool party here with a small group of friends. The place looked so intimate and just fun.
The lemongrass cooler looks and sounds amazing. All the food looks really good and I would love to try that pizza. What a fun destination place. I love houses that are turned into restaurants. They have so much charm.
They serve more pizza variety and everything on the menu absolutely seemed interesting to try. This congenial local restaurant packs a punch thanks to the well-executed Swiss fare.
This looks like it would be a great place to dine. I love the view from your seat though, that would be so amazing to experience eating with that scenery in the background. Overall, great review and I would love to be able to eat here one day.
Thanks, Victoria! π Since we were to first customers to arrive for dinner, we got to choose the best seats to see the best view in the city. Vieux Chalet Swiss Restaurant isn’t too crowded but reservation before coming is still recommended.
A frozen lemon grass margarita sounds to die for and I am drooling over all of the delicious cuisine pictures!! I love the sort of hodge podge exterior and interior design of the restaurant, it lends a comfy atmosphere. If I am ever on that side of the world, Vieux Chalet will be on my checklist!
With laidback atmosphere exuding good quality of both food and drinks, you will really have a good time here. Definitely order the frozen lemongrass margarita and chill! π
Looks so fun and colorful. I love whimsical places. I also love a good Margarita, never had a lemongrass one but sounds like something I would love to try!
Yeah, I also had never tried lemongrass margarita before so I was truly interested to know how it would taste like. Even though it lacked on the alcohol content I was expecting for a “normally strong” margarita, it didn’t fail on the taste test. π The lemongrass flavor still delivered quite well.
All of the food looks amazing at this restaurant! I love trying new restaurants when we travel. The Swiss Chocolate Cake a la mode looks like it would be my favorite part of the meal!!
Yeah, we’re also into restaurant-hopping since we want to try a new restaurant every time. This one in Antipolo is a great find! You should come and try their best-selling dishes one day. π The Swiss Chocolate Cake a la mode was so fine.
love the ambiance… parang syang may pagaka-shabby chic hehe.. Taktak Road? Malapit ba ito dun sa Hinulugang Taktak?
Thanks for sharing Roch
You’re welcome! Haha haynaku Milton, wala akong alam pag dating sa daan. Nakatingin lang kami sa Waze! π
OMG! Kilig moment right there… Uhm.. I like the place but the only thing that hinders me from going there is the far far far away place that is from my house. I heard a lot of good things there.
But I guess for EHEM… #irog .. it is all worth it.. I bet siya pa nag drive.. LOL! ..
Cheers and Belated happy Birthday Louie!
I think dumarami na rin ang great restaurants sa Antipolo especially those homes converted to restaurants that have unique decors and style. Very romantic ang feeling so I’m sure couples will be impressed. Of course siya ang nagdrive! Haha, medyo pataas kasi bundok. Thanks, Jeng! π
The ambiance is cool and cozy! The surrounding is ultimately great for lovers or family bonding. The food is good too and yummy while talking over the meals.
Apparently this space offers a lot of options for dining. You can be seated inside in the regular restaurant setting or you may choose to enjoy the al fresco dining outside or even by the pool. π
The place looks so cozy. I like there platter and I also like to say that you are really pretty here especially with sunset as your backdrop.
Thanks, Franc! π I really love visiting quirky restaurants that I can recommend to readers. This one happens to have informal yet elegant decorations and displays and beautifully prepared plates. Vieux Chalet can be laid-back or fancy as you want to make it. Thought bites are somehow on the expensive end, the dinner scene is a steal!
I think it’s ok to spend fora place to eat as long as it gives back to you in the quality of the food, the place and the service. I like that you find quirky restaurants and recommend it to us.
Yes, that’s exactly why I consider “price for value” in my food reviews and not only the “price” per se. Some things other than food make the price worth it. π You’re welcome!
Yum! That really sounds delicious! I think I would start with the chocolate cake and I love the setup they have!
Oh yes, there’s nothing wrong starting with a dessert course especially in summer. π
very colorful…I like the eclectic designs of the place and their food presentations were just fun too:)
Yup, the atmospheric vibe and good selection of Swiss food complete a delightful experience in this “secret restaurant” in Antipolo. π
I love reading your restaurant reviews! They’ve really opened my eyes to how diverse the Philippines food scene is, and you’ve truly made me want to visit one day. This Swiss Chalet restaurant looks so charming, and the food selection seems wonderful. And the view!! I’m glad you had such a good time there!
Thanks, Erica! I was actually sick that day – I had a runny nose but it did not stop me from having a good time. π Friendly service certainly added to the appeal!
How very pretty and colorful! All of the food looks great and I really want that hot sauce π
That hot sauce will bring heat and a unique flavor to your meal. π
Oh wow, that place is beautiful. I am loving all the pictures you shared. It looks like a great place to visit for couples! Thank you for sharing!
Yup, it’s also a good spot for families to dine in, with the outstanding scenery and nature.
I love the style of the restuarant. Looks like you could have an amazing time catching up and it has the feel of home!
I like the feeling of exclusivity especially since we were the first guests to arrive for dinner. It felt like we owned the place for ourselves for hours! π The relaxing ambiance can somehow recharge batteries as it’s a fantastic place to enjoy a well-deserved summer break.
I wish I could find a place like that around here! It is so cute and the food looks like it was really tasty too.
What’s also good about Vieux Chalet is that the place is not too huge but you can do as much as you want or as little to make your stay an unforgettable experience. π
Oh it looks so bright and cheerful! I’d love to dine at a place like this. The food looks right up my alley too!
This destination offers a combination of good food and intimate vibe for those seeking privacy and magnificent lush scenery.
This looks like a fun place. The food looks good and I am drooling over that chocolate cake. So divine!
You know there are times in life when only a slice of chocolate cake will make you feel good! This chocolate cake paired with chocolate ice cream is perfect for that kind of situation. π
i love how bright and colorful all the rooms are. The swimming pool would have been my favorite place of all. Yum, the food looks amazing!
Yeah, the view in the swimming pool area was serene. Just pray that it doesn’t rain too hard! π
Wow, that restaurant looks amazing! You guys also got and amazing view and the food looks so good! Thanks for sharing. π
Hi Sharon, you’re welcome! The view made us want to stay longer to unwind from everyday work struggles. :p
What a unique looking restaurant that is! The view is magnificent. I know I would not mind paying more for that kind of atmosphere especially since the food is superb as well.
Dim lighting in the evening add to the inviting ambiance. A tip is to come early so you can snatch the window seat. π
Such a great review! The restaurant itself looks pretty awesome. But the food? Looks so good! That swiss chocolate cake? Um, looks incredible!
Thanks, Jeanine! The see-and-be-seen atmosphere and the rich food here are enough reasons to empty those pockets and splurge a bit for a wonderful dinner. :p
How nice that it’s a beautiful home turned into a restaurant. The ambience is definitely homey and the food looks so delicious.
Yup, Vieux Chalet is not only a “restaurant” but also a mini resort where you can spend the night and feel at home with soulful dishes to enjoy. π
What a nice quaint place to eat. I love the decor! The food looks amazing!
Vieux Chalet has casual elegance that just makes it special-occasion worthy. π
Yumm! That looks really good! Especially that swiss chocolate cake – I’m such a sucker for anything chocolate π
Haha me too. It’s hard to say no to chocolate cake for dessert-even when we were too full. :p
What an amazing view from the restaurant. Also that pizza looks so cheesy and delicious.
The pizza was one of the best cheese pizzas I ever had. π Super yummy!
Awesome food, relaxing place and cute couple = one of the best food/place review ever. Love your review and yeah, I love Vieux Chalet too! π
Thanks, Ron! π It was really an awesome place to dine and hang out leisurely with good indoor and outdoor spaces.
That is very nice and neat restaurant. Looks their decor are unique, and those foods are look delicious.
The decors are unique since they are personal collections of the Hassig family. π There’s a room near the entrance of the restaurant filled with letters and memorabilia.
I’ll make sure to drop by there when we’re in Antipolo!
This will be a great restaurant for you to date with your husband. π #LoveIsInTheAir