One fine lunch at Isdaan Floating Restaurant

On our way back to Manila from our Caliraya trip, we made a quick stopover at Isdaan Floating Restaurant in Calauan, Laguna. I was surprised to find out that there is one such restaurant in Laguna; I once thought that Isdaan only had a single branch located in Gerona, Tarlac.

It is owned by the Ongpaucos, a family of restaurateurs that also own Barrio Fiesta, Bakahan at Manukan, and Singing Cooks and Waiters. As such, expect the fusion of all the different themes from these restaurants in Isdaan. Furthermore, expect signature fares from the aforementioned restaurants here. Some notable dishes include Binangkang Sisig, Lechon, Sinigang na Sugpo and their boodle fight meals.

If you are coming from Manila via private vehicle, you may take SLEX then exit in Calamba. Then drive all the way to Sta. Cruz, Laguna. If you are commuting, you may take any bus bound for Sta. Cruz, Laguna. Just ask the conductor to drop you off at Isdaan.

 Walking on stilts

Crocs in a pond

 

Aside from delicious food, you may also feast your eyes on the beautiful sceneries all over the property. It’s not technically a floating restaurant, instead native huts are erected on a man-made lake. Giant statues and lush ornamental plants adorn the whole place. While waiting for your food to be served, you may want to take a boat ride on the lagoon.

Perhaps the one feature that Isdaan is most famous for is its Tacsiyapo wall. Tacsiyapo is a Kapampangan swear word, which, if I remember correctly, does not really have a direct Tagalog translation. But how does Tacsiyapo wall work? Well, it’s mainly a venue for venting out your anger and releasing one’s negativities by throwing and smashing ceramic plates, mugs and even small TVs onto a wall while shouting “Tacsiyapo!”. Guests have to pay for the items to be smashed, though.

All in all, it was a good experience – great food, a relaxing ambiance, friendly staff. Isdaan is a definite must-try.

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