Lively Filipino music, rich and boisterous laughter and the clanging of utensils were in perfect harmony during the blessing and grand opening of Lantaw Native Restaurant Dumaguete. It seemed like one giant feast that brought together families from all over the city. And as the night progressed and the moon steadily lit the restaurant’s skyline, the crowd excited to taste the savory native delicacies unique to this new restaurant just kept getting bigger and bigger.
True to its name, the interior is a display of all things “native”. From its bamboo posts, one of a kind ‘nigo’ ceiling, kugon roofing and Filipino inspired murals, the ambiance of the resto has a classy Filipino vibe to it. To top it off, there is a jeepney frame in the middle of the food counter and there are bangkas hanging from the ceiling. The tables and chairs vary from wooden long tables and benches, to comfortable sofas and glass top dining tables. There is a semi-boardwalk inspired outdoor dining area with an adjacent kiddie playground and fountains, an open air indoor dining area as well as an enclosed air conditioned one, and another dining area situated on the resto’s patio fronting Escaño beach.
Lantaw Native Restaurant is located at Flores Avenue corner EJ Blanco Drive, where the old El Camino Blanco used to be. It’s just beside another restaurant, Hayahay Tree House and Restobar. With its unique structure and interior you can’t miss it. Its location allows customers to have a perfect view of the beach while dining. It’s not too far from the heart of the city and is still easily accessible by public transport. The parking space is also sufficient for guests with vehicles.
From your favorite traditional Filipino dishes to those prepared with a twist, Lantaw’s menu is tailored to please every palate and satiate every tummy. Start off your meal with Manggang Hilaw with Bagoong, some Baked Scallops, or a dish they call the Cordova Express. These will definitely get your tastebuds going. Pinoy favorites such as Crispy Pata and Kare-Kare na Pata should always make an appearance at your table. For seafoods, we recommend the Garlic Buttered Prawns or the Garlic Buttered Crabs. Their Chicken in a Buko, which is chicken, cooked in butong juice, is also a must-try dish. Lantaw serves assorted cold softdrinks, as well as shakes and juices, beer and wine. Cap off your meal with everyone’s favorite halo-halo, have some bibingka ala mode, or a slice of Maja Mais con Buco.
Since Lantaw just recently opened, expect it to be packed during lunch and dinner time. Make a reservation ahead so you will not have to wait so long to be seated. Walk-ins are also welcome.
Lantaw will not just be another restaurant in this city of gentle people. It will definitely earn its place in the list of top go-to family restos among Dumaguetenos and Negrenses. This place will surely contribute to the vibrant food culture the city already has. But perhaps the best thing about it is that it brings families together over a good yet affordable hearty meal. To the folks over at Lantaw, thank you for bringing more unique native dishes to this city and thank you for allowing Food Trip Dumaguete to be part of the wonderful start of your journey.
