About Us
Step into Taal’s history through food and flavor.
Our Story
Welcome to Cuchara Y Tenedor, a heritage-inspired Spanish restaurant nestled in the heart of historic Taal, Batangas. Located inside Casa Maria—a beautifully restored 19th-century Bahay na Bato—our restaurant offers guests a truly unique dining experience that blends timeless architecture, rich Filipino-Spanish culture, and authentic flavors.
Founded by Ernie Villavicencio, a passionate restorer of ancestral homes in Taal, the restaurant began as a personal mission to preserve the town’s legacy. What was once a humble kamalig (traditional storehouse) is now a cozy, rustic dining space that showcases the artistry of Spanish-Catalan cuisine with local Taal ingredients like tawilis, maliputo, and longganisang Taal.
Each dish on our menu tells a story—of tradition, creativity, and regional pride. From tapas and paella to heritage favorites like caldereta and embutido, we celebrate the fusion of Spanish techniques and Filipino soul. Our food is prepared with respect for history, using fresh, local ingredients and bold, comforting flavors that honor both Spanish and Tagalog roots.
But Cuchara Y Tenedor is more than just a place to eat
It’s a place to experience. With original adobe walls, antique wood ceilings, vintage accents, and a warm, ambient glow, the space itself feels like stepping into the past. It’s an Instagrammable destination, perfect for capturing stunning photos, celebrating special moments, or simply appreciating the beauty of old-world charm.
Whether you’re a history lover, a food enthusiast, or a traveler discovering Taal, we invite you to slow down, savor every bite, and make lasting memories with us.
Cuchara Y Tenedor – where every dish is a journey, and every visit feels like coming home.
Our Mission
To serve authentic Spanish cuisine with a Filipino soul, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Taal, Batangas.
Our Vision
To become a must-visit heritage dining destination where history, food, and beauty come together.
What We Stand For
Preserving Filipino-Spanish traditions through architecture, flavor, and warm hospitality.
What We Offer
A unique culinary experience inside a restored ancestral home, blending old-world charm with unforgettable flavors.
Our Inspiration
Taal’s golden past, reimagined on every plate and in every corner of our historic restaurant.
Our Promise
To create a space where guests can taste history, make memories, and enjoy the best of Spanish and local dishes.