Baguio City! The City of Pines! It’s not just about beautiful scenery and cool weather; it’s also a food lover’s paradise. This article is your guide to the best food Baguio has to offer, from classic eats to hidden gems. Get ready to explore the yummy side of this mountain city!
Strawberries and Strawberry Taho: A Baguio Staple
Okay, you can’t go to Baguio without trying the strawberries. They’re everywhere! Fresh strawberries are sold by the basket, and the sweetest ones come from nearby farms in La Trinidad, Benguet. You can even pick your own strawberries at places like the Strawberry Farm. The best time to go strawberry picking is during the harvest season, usually from November to May.
But it doesn’t stop there. Strawberries are used in all sorts of treats. Strawberry jam, strawberry preserves, strawberry ice cream – you name it, Baguio’s got it. And of course, there’s strawberry taho. Taho is a warm, soft tofu dessert, and in Baguio, they add a sweet strawberry syrup and fresh strawberries on top. It’s a perfect way to start a chilly Baguio morning. You can find strawberry taho vendors all over the city, especially near tourist spots.
Good Shepherd Ube Jam and Other Goodies
Good Shepherd Convent is famous for its ube jam. What’s ube? It’s a purple yam, and it makes for a delicious, sweet jam. The Good Shepherd ube jam is made by the nuns, and buying it supports their charities, according to their website. It’s super popular, so sometimes there’s a line to buy it. They also sell other yummy treats like peanut brittle, lengua de gato (cat’s tongue cookies), and alfajores. These are all great souvenirs to bring home to your family and friends.
Pinikpikan: A Cordilleran Delicacy
If you’re feeling adventurous, try pinikpikan. This is a traditional dish from the Cordillera region, where Baguio is located. Pinikpikan is basically chicken that’s been prepared in a special way involving gently beating the chicken with a stick before cooking. This is believed to enhance the flavor. The chicken is then cooked with ginger, sayote (a type of squash), and other local vegetables. The method of preparing the chicken has sparked some debate, but among locals, it’s considered and age-old tradition. The flavor is rich and smoky, and it’s definitely a unique culinary experience.
You can find pinikpikan at some restaurants specializing in Cordilleran cuisine. Check out places in Mines View Park or along Session Road. Ask the locals for their recommendations – they’ll know the best spots!
Session Road Eats: From Budget to Fine Dining
Session Road is the main street in Baguio, and it’s packed with all sorts of restaurants. You can find everything from budget-friendly eateries to fancy dining places here. For a quick and cheap bite, there are many fast food chains and street food vendors. You can grab a burger, fries, or even some local snacks like kakanin (rice cakes).
If you’re looking for a sit-down meal, Session Road has plenty of options. There are restaurants serving Filipino food, American food, Chinese food, and more. Some popular choices include pizza places, steakhouses, and cafes. For coffee lovers, there are several coffee shops where you can relax and enjoy a hot drink.
Cafe by the Ruins: Ambiance and Great Food
Cafe by the Ruins is one of the most popular restaurants in Baguio. It’s known for its cozy ambiance and delicious food. The restaurant is located in a historical setting, with the ruins of an old building as its backdrop. They serve a mix of Filipino and international dishes, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Some of their specialties include their homemade bread, salads, and desserts. The cafe is a great place to relax and enjoy a meal with friends or family.
Don’t forget to try their champorado (chocolate rice porridge) for breakfast or their Baguio Bagnet! You can usually find it within walking distance from Session Road.
Beans Talk Cafe: Coffee with a View
Baguio is a great place for coffee as it is a hub for arabica coffee growers, so you should also check out Beans Talk Cafe. Located along Marcos Highway, its a spot that offers not just great coffee but also breathtaking views of the mountains. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists who want to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. Aside from coffee, they also serve a variety of pastries and snacks. The cafe is a great place to relax or to grab a coffee before heading home from a great day in Baguio.
Hill Station: Fine Dining with a Colonial Vibe
For a more upscale dining experience, head to Hill Station. Located in Casa Vallejo, a historical hotel, Hill Station offers fine dining with a colonial vibe. The restaurant specializes in Asian and European dishes, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The ambiance is elegant and romantic, making it a perfect place for a special occasion or a date night. Their menu includes dishes like seafood paella, grilled steaks, and pasta dishes.
Igorot Garden Cafe: Culture and Cuisine
If you want to experience Igorot culture while enjoying delicious food, visit the Igorot Garden Cafe. This cafe showcases the rich culture of the indigenous people of the Cordillera region. The cafe serves traditional Igorot dishes, such as pinuneg (blood sausage), kiniing (smoked meat), and etag (salted pork). As well as delicious food, guests are usually entertained with tribal dances and musical performances at certain schedules. It’s a great way to learn more about the local culture and enjoy a unique dining experience.
Night Market Food Stalls: A Street Food Adventure
The Baguio Night Market is a must-visit for street food lovers. Every night, Harrison Road transforms into a bustling marketplace filled with vendors selling all sorts of goods, including a wide variety of food. You can find everything from grilled meats and seafood to deep-fried snacks and sweet treats. The night market is a great place to try different kinds of street food and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Baguio at night.
You’ll find practically anything here – barbecues, isaw (grilled chicken intestines), kakanin, and even Japanese takoyaki. Be sure to haggle for the best prices!
Mama’s Table: Comfort Food in a Cozy Setting
Mama’s Table is a hidden gem in Baguio, known for its cozy setting and delicious comfort food. The restaurant is located in a residential area, and it feels like you’re dining in someone’s home. They offer a set menu of Filipino and international dishes, prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Some of their specialties include their soups, salads, and homemade desserts. Reservations are a must, as the restaurant is small and popular.
Tsokolateria Artisanal Cafe: Chocolate Heaven
Calling all chocolate lovers! Tsokolateria Artisanal Cafe is a must-visit if you’re in Baguio. This cafe specializes in all things chocolate. They serve hot chocolate, chocolate desserts, and even chocolate-infused savory dishes. All these of course using local ingredients. Their hot chocolate is made with real cacao beans, and it’s rich and flavorful. They also have a variety of chocolate cakes, pastries, and other treats. If you’re looking for a sweet escape, Tsokolateria is the place to go.
50’s Diner: A Blast From the Past
Step back in time at 50’s Diner. As the name suggests, this restaurant is decorated in a retro 1950s style. They serve classic American diner food, like burgers, fries, milkshakes, and sundaes. The atmosphere is fun and nostalgic, and it’s a great place to take photos. The food is also good, and the portions are generous. It’s a perfect spot for families with kids or anyone who loves a good old-fashioned diner experience.
Farmer’s Daughter Restaurant: Authentic Igorot Flavors
If you want to try authentic Igorot cuisine in a traditional setting, Farmer’s Daughter Restaurant is the place to go. This restaurant, located near Tam-awan Village, is designed to resemble a traditional Igorot village. It serves a variety of Igorot dishes, prepared with fresh, local ingredients. This can be pinikpikan, kiniing, and more. The restaurant also has a museum showcasing Igorot artifacts and culture. It’s a great place to learn more about the local heritage and enjoy a delicious meal.
Volante: Pizza and Pasta with a View
Volante offers both great Italian food and a stunning view! Located on Outlook Drive, close to Mines View Park, Volante specializes in pizza and pasta dishes. Their pizzas are made with fresh dough and topped with high-quality ingredients. They also have a variety of pasta dishes, salads, and desserts. The restaurant has a spacious dining area and a balcony with panoramic views of the mountains. The restaurant’s atmosphere is relaxed and romantic, making it a popular spot for dates and special occasions. Be sure to try their four cheese pizza!
FAQ Section: Your Baguio Food Questions Answered
What is the best time to visit Baguio for food?
The best time to visit Baguio for food, especially if you want to try the freshest strawberries, is during the dry season, from November to May. This is when the strawberries are in season, and there are many food festivals and events happening around the city. The weather is generally cooler and drier during this time, making it ideal for exploring the city’s culinary scene.
Where can I find the cheapest eats in Baguio?
For the cheapest eats in Baguio, head to the Baguio Night Market along Harrison Road. You can find a variety of street food stalls selling grilled meats, seafood, snacks, and desserts at affordable prices. Public markets are also good places to find cheap eats, with vendors selling local dishes like tapsilog (tapa, sinangag, and egg) and pancit (noodles) at budget-friendly prices. Carinderias (small eateries) are another option for cheap and tasty meals.
Are there vegetarian options in Baguio?
Yes, there are several vegetarian options in Baguio. Many restaurants offer vegetable dishes, salads, and vegetarian versions of Filipino classics. Some restaurants, like Cafe by the Ruins, have dedicated vegetarian sections on their menus. You can also find vegetarian meals at health food stores and vegetarian restaurants. Just be sure to ask about the ingredients, as some Filipino dishes may contain meat broth or fish sauce.
What are the must-try souvenirs to bring home from Baguio?
The must-try food souvenirs to bring home from Baguio include Good Shepherd ube jam, peanut brittle, lengua de gato, and alfajores. You can also buy fresh strawberries, strawberry jam, and other strawberry products. Other popular souvenirs include local coffee beans, dried flowers, and wooden handicrafts. These all can usually be conveniently bought from vendors and specialty shops around the city.
How much should I budget for a food trip in Baguio?
How much you should budget for a food trip in Baguio depends on your eating habits and preferences. If you’re on a tight budget, you can get by with around ₱500-₱1000 per day by eating at street food stalls, public markets, and carinderias. If you prefer to dine at restaurants and cafes, you should budget around ₱1500-₱3000 per day. For fine dining experiences, budget around ₱3000 or more per day. You can also save money by buying groceries and preparing some of your own meals.
Is it safe to eat street food in Baguio?
Eating street food in Baguio is generally safe, but you should take some precautions to avoid getting sick. Choose vendors with clean stalls and freshly cooked food. Avoid eating food that has been sitting out for a long time. Drink bottled water or boiled water. Wash your hands before eating. If you have a sensitive stomach, you may want to stick to restaurants and cafes.
Are there any food tours in Baguio?
Yes, there are several food tours in Baguio. These tours take you to different restaurants and food stalls around the city, allowing you to sample a variety of local dishes. Some food tours focus on specific types of cuisine, such as Igorot food or street food. Food tours are a great way to discover new restaurants and learn more about the local culinary scene. Check with travel agencies in Baguio for available tours.
What’s the best way to get around Baguio to try all these foods?
The best way to get around Baguio to try all these foods depends on your budget and preferences. Taxis are readily available and relatively affordable. Jeepneys are a cheaper option, but they can be crowded and confusing to navigate. Walking is a great way to explore the city, especially if you’re staying near Session Road. You can also rent a car or motorcycle, but be aware that traffic in Baguio can be heavy, especially during peak season. It’s advisable to use ride-hailing apps to help you navigate around the city.
References
Department of Agriculture – Philippine Statistics Authority. (Date N/A). Major Vegetable and Fruit Crops Statistics of the Philippines.
Good Shepherd Baguio Official Website. (Date N/A). Products and Social Mission.
Cordillera Culinary Arts Council. (Date N/A) Traditional Cordilleran Cuisine and Preservation.
Baguio Tourism Office. (Date N/A). Official City Tourism Information.
Philippine Coffee Board. (Date N/A). Coffee Growing Regions in the Philippines.
Baguio City Government Official Website. (Date N/A). General Economic Profile and Data. Department of Agriculture – Philippine Statistics Authority.
