Baguio City isn’t just about beautiful scenery and cool weather; it’s a food lover’s paradise! Get ready for a delicious adventure as we explore the must-try dishes that will make your Baguio trip unforgettable. From fresh strawberries to hearty meals perfect for the chilly weather, let’s dive into the flavors of the City of Pines!
Strawberry Taho: A Sweet Start
Imagine this: you’re walking around Baguio, feeling that cool breeze, and you spot a vendor selling Strawberry Taho. What is taho? It’s a sweet treat made from soft silken tofu, arnibal (a brown sugar syrup), and sago pearls. Now, add a generous helping of fresh strawberry syrup and sliced strawberries, and you’ve got Strawberry Taho! It’s sweet, refreshing, and a perfect way to start your day. You can find Strawberry Taho almost everywhere, especially near Burnham Park and Session Road. It’s a definitely one of the most iconic Baguio snacks!
Strawberry Picking: Straight from the Source
Why just eat strawberries when you can pick them yourself? Head over to La Trinidad Strawberry Farm. Picking your own strawberries is a fun activity, especially for families. You get to wander through the fields, choose the ripest, juiciest strawberries, and fill your basket to the brim. Just remember that the price of strawberries you pick yourself may be higher than buying them pre-packed, but the experience is worth it! After picking, you can even find vendors selling strawberry ice cream, strawberry jam, and other strawberry-related goodies right at the farm.
Pinikpikan: A Unique Cordilleran Dish
Looking for something a bit more adventurous? Then you have to try Pinikpikan. This is a traditional dish from the Cordillera region, and it’s definitely not something you’ll find everywhere. Pinikpikan involves gently beating a native chicken with a stick (called “pikpik”) before cooking it. This process is said to bruise the meat, which enhances its flavor. The chicken is then cooked with ginger, sayote (chayote), and sometimes other vegetables. Some people may find the “pikpik” part a bit controversial, but it’s a cultural practice that is part of the dish. The resulting flavor is savory and smoky, with a distinct Cordilleran taste. Be sure to ask locals for recommendations to find the best Pinikpikan restaurants. Understand that this is a traditional dish and not all restaurants serving it follow traditional methods.
Bulalo: Warmth in a Bowl
With Baguio’s chilly weather, nothing beats a hot bowl of Bulalo. This is a Filipino beef marrow stew, and it’s incredibly comforting. The broth is rich and flavorful, thanks to the slow cooking of beef shanks and marrow bones. It’s usually served with vegetables like cabbage, corn, and potatoes. The best part? Scooping out the bone marrow! Many restaurants in Baguio serve Bulalo, and it’s a great dish to share with family and friends. Many restaurants offer Bulalo, but be prepared for it to be a popular choice, especially during peak season. Due to its popularity, some establishments may slightly alter the recipe to expedite service. Researching customer reviews can help pinpoint eateries that maintain the traditional preparation methods.
Kare-Kare: A Peanut Butter Delight
If you’re a fan of peanut butter, you’ll love Kare-Kare. This Filipino stew is made with a thick peanut sauce, oxtail (though other meats can be used too), and various vegetables like string beans, eggplant, and bok choy. It’s usually served with bagoong (shrimp paste) on the side. The peanut sauce is rich and creamy, and the bagoong adds a salty, umami kick. Kare-Kare is a popular dish in Filipino cuisine, and you can find it in many restaurants in Baguio. Look for restaurants that offer it with a slow-cooked oxtail and vegetables cooked just right, ensuring maximum flavor and tenderness rather than mushiness.
Longganisa: A Baguio Breakfast Staple
Start your day right with Baguio Longganisa! Longganisa is a Filipino sausage, and each region has its own version. Baguio Longganisa is known for being garlicky and slightly sweet and savory. It’s typically served with sinangag (garlic fried rice) and fried egg, making it a complete and satisfying breakfast. Many breakfast spots and even hotels in Baguio offer Longganisa as part of their breakfast menu. Don’t leave without trying it!
Ube Jam: A Purple Sweetness
Ube Jam is practically synonymous with Baguio. Ube is a purple yam, and its jam is sweet, creamy, and incredibly delicious. Good Shepherd Convent is famous for its Ube Jam, and it’s a must-buy souvenir. You can buy it at their store in Baguio or even online. The Ube Jam can be eaten plain, spread on bread, or used as an ingredient in other desserts. Aside from Good Shepherd, keep an eye out for other brands too, but it’s important to check their ingredients. High quality Ube Jam should contain mostly ube, with limited artificial additives.
Sundot Kulangot: A Sticky Surprise
Don’t let the name scare you! Sundot Kulangot is a sticky rice candy that’s a unique Baguio treat. It’s made from glutinous rice flour, sugar, and sometimes grated coconut. It’s then placed inside small pitogo shells (a type of palm fruit shell) and sealed with a red paper. The name “Sundot Kulangot” literally means “poke booger” in Tagalog, because you have to poke the candy out of the shell with a stick. It’s sweet, chewy, and a fun snack to try. You can usually find it being sold by street vendors and in souvenir shops.
Leche Flan: A Classic Dessert
Leche Flan is a classic Filipino custard dessert, and it’s a perfect way to end your meal. It’s made with eggs, milk, and sugar, and it’s steamed until it’s set. Leche Flan is smooth, creamy, and has a rich caramel flavor. Almost every Filipino restaurant in Baguio will have Leche Flan on their dessert menu. It’s a truly decadent treat.
Coffee: Warm Up with a Brew
Baguio’s cool climate is perfect for growing coffee, so you’ll find plenty of coffee shops serving locally grown beans. Whether you like a strong espresso, a creamy latte, or a simple brewed coffee, there’s a coffee shop in Baguio for you. Try visiting coffee farms outside the city center to get an inside look at how coffee is made. Seek recommendations from locals about reputable coffee shops, keeping in mind some may focus more on atmosphere over the actual coffee quality.
Lemon Bread: A Tart Delight
Lemon bread is another popular treat you’ll find in Baguio, especially at certain bakeries. It’s known for its tangy lemon flavor and often features a sweet glaze. It’s a tasty option for a snack or as a light dessert, complementing your cup of coffee. Look along Session Road or ask locals for reputable bakeshops. Also, make sure to compare ingredients and prioritize those made from natural ingredients for richer lemon flavor.
Peanut Brittle: Crunchy and Sweet
Peanut brittle is a classic sweet treat, and Baguio has its own versions that are definitely worth trying. Made from peanuts and caramelized sugar, this candy offering provide a satisfying crunch with every snap. Many street vendors and souvenir shops sell variations of peanut brittle. When purchasing, look for brittle that has an even distribution of peanuts, and consider trying samples if available. This will help you ensure you buy a product made from high-quality ingredients and prepared with care.
Fresh Produce: Baguio’s Bounty
Don’t forget to check out the fresh produce! Baguio is a major agricultural hub, so you’ll find a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables at the Baguio City Market. You can buy everything from lettuce and carrots to broccoli and cauliflower. It’s a great place to buy ingredients for your own cooking, or to simply admire the bounty of the region. And, of course, you can buy fresh strawberries!
Ukay-Ukay: The Food Factor
Wait, what? Ukay-ukay isn’t food! But hear me out: exploring Baguio’s ukay-ukay (second-hand clothing) scene can be an adventure in itself, and you’re bound to work up an appetite. Nearby the ukay-ukay areas, you’ll often find street food vendors selling everything from grilled meat to noodles. So, while you’re hunting for bargains, take a break and grab a bite to eat. The street food scene around the ukay-ukay areas adds another layer to the Baguio food experience.
Restaurant Recommendations: Where to Eat
Okay, so now you know what to eat, but where should you go? Here are a few popular restaurants to get you started. For a taste of traditional Cordilleran cuisine, check out restaurants specializing in native dishes. For a more modern dining experience, explore restaurants with outdoor seating and unique menus. Of course, don’t be afraid to ask locals for their recommendations. They’ll know the best hidden gems and local favorites. Always consider checking online reviews before committing to a restaurant, paying close attention to recent comments about food quality and service.
Tips for Your Baguio Food Trip
Here are a few tips to make your Baguio food trip even better. First, be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season. Baguio is a popular tourist destination, so expect lines at popular restaurants. Second, bring a jacket! The weather in Baguio can be chilly, especially in the evenings. Third, be adventurous! Try new things and don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Finally, support local businesses and vendors. By doing so, you’re helping to support the community and preserve the unique flavors of Baguio.
Street Food Safety
Street food in Baguio is delicious and affordable, but it’s important to be mindful of food safety. Look for vendors with clean stalls and who handle food properly. Make sure the food is cooked thoroughly, and avoid eating anything that looks questionable. Its practical to carry hand sanitizer to clean your hands before you dig in. If possible, find stalls with high customer turnover, which suggests the food is constantly fresh. This will greatly minimize any risks and let you sample all sorts of Baguio treats.
Budgeting Your Food Trip
You can enjoy delicious dining in Baguio no matter your budget. Street food is a very cheap option for snacks and quick bites while restaurants vary by price ranges. Preparing a daily budget will help keep track of your spending. Seek out local eateries and carinderias offer affordable and hearty meals. Many offer budget-friendly meal options and great deals. Having a clear budget will let you explore more Baguio flavors without overspending.
Experiencing Baguio Night Market
Don’t miss the Baguio Night Market! This bustling market along Harrison Road comes alive in the evenings. Aside from the usual merchandise, you’ll find variety of street food selections. It’s a great place to grab a cheap and tasty meal. Be sure to go with an empty stomach so you can sample more of the tasty snacks and treats on offer. The night market captures the energy and flavors of Baguio’s busy streets.
Food Festivals and Events
Sometimes, you might be fortunate enough to visit Baguio during a food festival or event. These events showcase the best of Baguio’s cuisine, with vendors offering delicious dishes and unique creations. Keep an eye on local announcements and event listings to see if there are any food-related events happening during your visit. These festivals provide a great chance to savour a wide sample of food at one location. And its a great chance to learn about regional ingredients and food preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about eating in Baguio:
What is the best time to visit Baguio for food lovers?
Any time is a good time to visit Baguio for food! However, visiting during the off-peak season (June-November) can be a better option as there are fewer crowds. Just be aware that it might be rainy during those months.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options available in Baguio?
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available, but they might not be as prevalent as meat-based dishes. Look for restaurants that offer vegetable-based dishes or are specifically vegetarian or vegan-friendly. Some restaurants have grown more accepting, but you’ll need to check ahead.
How much should I budget for food in Baguio?
This depends on your eating habits and preferences. If you plan on eating mostly at restaurants, you should budget more. If you’re happy with street food and local eateries, you can get by on a lower budget.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Baguio?
It is generally recommended to drink bottled water or purified water in Baguio. While the tap water is treated, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
What are some common ingredients used in Baguio cuisine?
Some common ingredients include strawberries, ube (purple yam), vegetables (especially those grown locally), and pork.
How do I get around in Baguio?
Jeepneys and taxis are the most common forms of transportation in Baguio. Jeepneys are cheaper, but taxis are more convenient. Walking is also a great way to explore the city, especially around Session Road and Burnham Park.
Where can I find the cheapest food in Baguio?
The cheapest food is usually found at street food stalls and local eateries (carinderias). Look for places that are popular with locals, as this is usually a good sign of quality and affordability.
Are there any food tours available in Baguio?
Yes, some tour operators offer food tours of Baguio. These tours can be a great way to discover hidden gems and learn about the local cuisine. Look for tours that are led by local guides who are knowledgeable about the food scene.
How do I avoid getting sick from food in Baguio?
Choose reputable restaurants and vendors, make sure food is cooked thoroughly, avoid eating anything that looks questionable, and practice good hygiene. Bringing hand sanitizer is always a good practice.
What unique souvenirs related to food can I buy in Baguio?
Ube Jam, strawberry jam, peanut brittle, and other local sweets are popular food-related souvenirs. You can also buy fresh produce at the Baguio City Market to take home with you.
References
Baguio City Tourism Office
Department of Agriculture – Philippines
Bookings.com Best Value Hotels in Baguio
Ready to embark on your own ultimate Baguio food trip? Don’t just read about it – experience it! Book a trip to Baguio, grab your friends and family, and get ready to indulge in the delicious flavors of the City of Pines! Share this guide with your travel buddies and start planning your culinary adventure today!
