My first time trying Filipino food at hidden gem Essex café

This independent, family-run café brings a refreshing and heartfelt take on modern Filipino cuisine to the town centre, blending comfort, colour and creativity in equal measure.

This is truly a hidden gem (Image: Newsquest Reporter)

“Tayo,” pronounced Tah-yo, is a Tagalog word rich with meaning—“us,” “we,” “let’s go,” even “rise.” Yes, I found this nugget of trivia only after visiting this café.

That sense of togetherness and warmth is immediately felt upon entering.

The interiors are inviting without being overdone: a cosy, softly buzzing space filled with conversation, laughter and the comforting hum of a well-loved spot.

It’s not trying to be flashy—just genuinely welcoming.

The warm interiors (Image: Newsquest Reporter)

The place is well done up (Image: Newsquest Reporter)

Founded by chef-owner Bien Solas-Causapin, whose culinary journey began in the Philippines and continued in the UK, the café reflects both heritage and ambition.

With a background in classical cooking and accolades such as Philadelphia’s Young Chef of the Year 2012, Bien brings both skill and soul to the menu.

A hearty meal (Image: Newsquest Reporter)

On a weekday visit, the service was warm and attentive, with Bien himself happily guiding us through the offerings.

The food arrived promptly, beautifully presented and full of vibrant character.

The freshly squeezed juices (Image: Newsquest Reporter)

To start, we opted for refreshing mango and guava juices (£3.50 each), served chilled over ice—bright, tropical and the perfect prelude to the meal.

For mains, the king prawns (£14) in a rich, garlicky sauce were a standout—succulent, aromatic and deeply satisfying.

The prawns were delicious (Image: Newsquest Reporter)

The seabass escabeche (£16) offered a delightful contrast: lightly crisped fish paired with a tangy, slightly sweet dressing that lifted every bite.

Both dishes were served with garlic and egg fried rice, adding a comforting, savoury base to the bold flavours.

The unique seabass dish (Image: Newsquest Reporter)

Dessert was a must, and the ube cheesecake (£7) did not disappoint.

Its striking purple hue hinted at the unique flavour of ube—sweet, nutty and subtly earthy—resulting in a creamy, indulgent finish to the meal.

The ube cheesecake- 10/10 (Image: Newsquest Reporter)

Colourful, flavoursome and thoughtfully crafted, the dishes at Tayo Cafe by Bien celebrate Filipino cuisine with a modern twist.

It’s a hidden gem both in terms of the cuisine it offers and the service, a place that feels both personal and polished—well worth seeking out.

Highly recommended.