Joie-Ana & Jay's Affordable Tapahan in MacArthur Highway, Bulacan

If there's one fun thing you can do while in a province, that's certainly going to a food trip. Personally, it is something I always look forward to because I'll get the chance to explore the food scene in that province. Also, you sort of learn in an indirect way (and somehow in a direct way too) the culture, attitude and personality of the locals.

Marilao, Bulacan - I've asked some of my cousins here what place they can recommend for us to try, and they suggested Joie-Ana & Jay Eatery, which is carinderia-type of place that offers Tapa and other -silog meals (Viand + [si] Fried Rice + it[log] Egg).

Joie-Ana & Jay Eatery along MacArthur Highway in Marilao, Bulacan

Admittedly, I used to be really picky when it comes to places to eat, but that was until I became a food enthusiast or "foodie". You gotta have to try them all! Well, of course, to some extent, I still exhibit that kind of attitude, but at least the instances reduced significantly.

Note: This place is located just in front of Pambansang Dalubhasaan ng Marilao.

Joie-Ana & Jay's Eatery - The Place

The not-so-inviting place of Joie-Ana & Jay's Eatery

As seen in the photo, the place is not really welcoming in a sense that there's no ambiance that gives you a sense of home, security and comfort. Hence, people just usually come and go fast - suggesting that they are more into the food than the place (which I definitely find agreeable).

Prices and Menu of Joie-Ana & Jay's Eatery

Note: Food is just to availability. During our visit, there were only 3 dishes to choose from - Tapsilog, Chicksilog and Liemsilog.

Tapsilog (Tapa + Sinangag + Itlog) || P50

The salty version of Tapa by Joie-Ana & Jay's Eatery

If you are a fan of the salty version of Tapa, you may find this highly enjoyable. However, as far as I am concerned, I did not enjoy its saltiness, the amount of serving (it was inconsistent among orders) and the greasiness.


Chicksilog (Chicken + Sinangag + Itlog) || P70

The best among the three - Chicksilog of Joie-Ana & Jay's Eatery

Among the 3 dishes we were able to try, this was the only one that I can give a positive note.  I found the buttery taste and the crispiness of the chicken very likable! Also, the potent margarine flavour of the rice compliments the chicken unlike with the other two (i.e. tapa and liempo) where the tastes did not jive.

Liemsilog (Liempo + Sinangag + Itlog) || P55

Liemsilog of Joie-Ana & Jay's Eatery - nothing very surprising, but not bad either.

As for this Liempo, I found the crispiness comforting, but the taste was just within ordinary (but could be enjoyable at times). Perhaps what hindered the potential of this dish was the greasiness. Imagine your plate getting all greased up - so not enticing.

In a Nutshell
One common thing I dislike about all 3 dishes was the oiliness and presentation. That department was definitely a complete lackluster! Oh, also the serving of rice was insufficient, since it was less than 1 cup, which may not sound so good for heavy eaters. Fret not, you may order additional rice for only P10.

Anyway, I do recommend that you try this even just once in your lifetime just for the sake of exploring. However, I myself would think twice whether to eat there again. But who knows, maybe I'll have the Chicksilog for takeout or delivery. After all, I found that one a little above satisfactory.

Joie –Ana & Jay
Location:
Nenita Dela Cruz Tuazon Building
MacArthur Highway, Abangan Norte
Marilao, Bulacan

Contact No.: +639997076504

Store Hours: Open 24 Hours Daily