“The discovery of a new dish does more for human happiness than the discovery of a new star.”
– J.A. Brillat-Savarin.
Baguio City is mostly known for its pine trees, strawberry taho, and cold breeze.
But what most visitors and tourists do not know is that the city is also a melting pot of gastronomic feasts. As Baguio remains a beloved tourist destination (given that it is the preferred Christmas getaway and is considered the country’s Summer Capital), it is inevitable for the city to have a slew of food options. The City of Pines may be known for its tourist spots, but it holds well as a food destination as well. Baguio is home to several restaurants that serve up a wide selection of dishes from various cuisines—from local favorites to international comfort food. So, if you wish to pepper your itinerary with must-try cafes and restaurants or if you are simply wondering where to eat in Baguio, take a gander at the list below.
In this article, we have compiled all the iconic Baguio restaurants that are not only worth the visit but worth the trip as well. No need to worry; all items in this list are guaranteed to be some of the most loved and best restaurants the city has to offer.
1.) Ranee House of Curry
Fans of curry, rejoice! Baguio City has its very own beloved Indian restaurant called Ranee House of Curry. Dubbed as their go-to for flavorful and affordable Southeast Asian items. If you have been looking for something new to try, or a break from the usual Filipino food and traditional Western menu, this is the perfect place for you. Keep in mind, though, that their dishes can get pretty hot. That said, you may want to avoid this restaurant if you are spice averse.
2.) That Little Cafe
If you like updating your social media feed with curated posts, head over to That Little Cafe. Located on the sixth floor of the Orchard Hotel Baguio, this cafe is known for its cool ambiance and Instagrammable interiors. Typically, this cafe is where guests of The Orchard Hotel Baguio have breakfast. Here, you can enjoy a meal while basking in the 180-degree view of the city. Notable items from their menu are baked sushi, paella, sandwich, pasta, soup, salad, sides, and a wide array of desserts. If you ever get the chance to visit, do not miss getting their salpicao and paella.
3.) Chaya
Baguio city’s perpetually cool weather might leave you craving something hot to warm you up for the rest of the day. Luckily, the city has its own Japanese restaurant situated in the heart of Legarda Road. Chaya is known for their bowls of piping hot ramen, fresh sushi, and Japanese comfort food. Vegans and vegetarians are welcome as this restaurant also has a plant-based menu that offers a variety of options suited to their diets.
4.) Oh My Gulay Artist Cafe
Situated on the fifth floor of the La Azotea Building along Session Road, Oh My Gulay Artist Cafe is a cross between an eatery and an indoor tropical garden. As the name suggests, the menu consists of vegetarian fare, which is delicious and affordable. Apart from the delightful food items, the cafe is a convivial art space for fresh and emerging talents in the city and the Cordilleras. Some of the cafe’s must-try food items are the Tandang Sora Parmigiana, a breaded eggplant over whole wheat bread with a special sauce. If you intend to visit Oh My Gulay Artist Cafe, bear in mind that they only operate from Wednesdays to Mondays (10AM to 6PM).
5.) Tea House Restaurant and Bakeshop
Known primarily for their pancit dishes and cakes, Tea House Restaurant and Bakeshop is a local favorite. In fact, the restaurant is such a beloved place that most locals typically order their cakes and bilaos of pancit for their birthday. While it is a small and humble restaurant, it packs a punch when it comes to their menu items. Tea House Restaurant and Bakeshop is known for their bilao specials, cakes, pastries, and affordable and delicious food. If you plan to visit anytime soon, be sure to try their Chona’s delight, which is essentially fluffy sponge cake bits drizzled and slathered with lots of creamy caramel.
6.) Cafe by the Ruins
As one of the famous restaurants in Baguio City, you should never miss visiting Cafe by the Ruins. Known for their desserts and authentic local dishes, almost everyone who has been to Baguio has tried dining here. Located along Shuntug Road across Baguio City Hall, the cafe was built over the ruins of a World War II Building, hence the name. Some of the food items you can try at this restaurant are local dishes that showcase the region’s culture. Some must-try dishes are the Bagnet with Padas Bagoong and Pinikpikan.
