Unique Dining Options in Baguio City

It was the rainy season and the heavens didn't hear my prayers to give us a fine sunny day to celebrate my father's birthday in Baguio City. On early afternoons, the rain would always start pouring but knowing that it would benefit more people especially the farmers, I'm still thankful that at least there was no typhoon. ^_^ The very cold and wet weather did not impede my family's high spirit though. Maybe sometimes, what matters most is the warmth provided by people around you which I'm very lucky to have with my family. ^_^

We started the day by attending the Mass in the Cathedral then dropping by the Pink Sister's Church and heard the choir of nuns practicing. They were singing soulfully that I had goose bumps. Then the rest is spent in going to Baguio's commonly visited tourist attractions and most specially, in food tripping. ^_^ During our three day stay in the City of Pines, I noticed there are dining places as well as foods that are uniquely found in Baguio or can be attributed to Baguio that I want to share with you.


CAFE BY THE RUINS
Chuntug St., walking distance from Session Rd or Burnham Park
http://cafebytheruins.com/



I found this quaint cafe while I was researching on where to eat in Baguio City. The name itself intrigued me. In my mind, I suddenly saw images of our Intramuros.. mossy stone walls and facade of buildings annihilated by war. When we got there, it turned out to be a garden cafe (that's how I see it) and that some of the materials used in putting up the cafe are the actual ruins of the house and garden owned by an American governor and was destroyed during the Second World War.








They used mostly native materials in setting up the cafe and the floor was made with brick and rock pieces. Pebbles are scattered on some parts of the resto where they laid the ornamental bamboo trees which gives a rustic feel to the diners. There's a part of the roof that was made of glass that added to the charm of the place.




We had breakfast here which means we only have limited options in the menu. For what we ordered though, the plates looked appetizing and when I got to taste my food, the looks didn't fail me. It was tasty and delectable. My folks also had coffee and I was amazed that they were not provided sugar but instead a white colored smooth cube was included beside the cup as a sweetener. Price is reasonable.




Service is good. It didn't take long before they served our orders. Our server wore a smile and he even volunteered to take our family picture. We were also provided with free fruit slices each. Who else would do that, right?

PIZZA VOLANTE
along Session Rd.



This is my second time in Pizza Volante. My first visit back in 2006 (I also have a previous entry for this) is the reason why I'm coming back with my family for lunch. Back then, I found everything superb however I was really disappointed with my latter experience. The restaurant expanded giving more seats to diners but the tables are set up very near each other that even without too many people, I found the place too crowded and uncomfortable. I'm not sure why but the cozy ambiance I felt on my first visit is no longer there.






The prices in their menu is average but I'd rather spend a little more to have a more decent meal. Even the food had gone bad I must say. My sister and I ordered pesto and as much as I don't want to waste food, I was not able to finish mine.. I just can't. In fairness to them, the fish 'n chips and grilled fish are ok. The pizza and the pasta is another case though. The fruit shakes are alright except that I was a bit dismayed that most of what they are offering in the menu were not available that time. I used to drop by even late at night just to buy strawberry shake.

With service, our lady server may be having a bad day that she can't manage to smile at all or just show acknowledgement after we say thank you for serving the food to us. She just kept on putting the food in the table then leaving like she's not seeing anybody. Oh well, I'm not just so sure if I'll ever set foot in Pizza Volante again. I believe in second chances though.

FOREST HOUSE BISTRO AND CAFE
Laoakan Rd - on the way going to Camp John Hay
http://www.foresthousebaguio.com/index.php



This is probably one of the most frequented restaurants in the city. When we arrived the first day, we decided to have dinner there but all tables were occupied and we're starving that we're not willing to wait for the next 2 hours. We had them reserve us a table for dinner the following night instead and opted to have dinner in SM Baguio. It might be safe to say that prior reservation in this restaurant is needed.

We we're almost soaked in the rain waiting for a cab that can take us there the following night. We also received a phone call from one of the store reps verifying if we would still be able to make it. (Sorry, we're late)Upon arriving, the place is warm enough that I almost forgot I'm shivering outside just minutes ago. The fireplace is blazing steadily making the place cozier than the other night we're there.




A gentlemen led us to our table and upon sitting, I fully noticed the interior of the cafe. It is exquisite. I was transported to a fairy tales' log cabin located in the heart of the forest ^_^ I adore how the cafe was designed, it is simple yet is very pleasing to my senses.




The food is also something that might have added to the fame of the cafe. They serve both western and local cuisine. I loved what I ordered, everything is delicious. The price is higher than average but it's worth it.




One thing they can improve though is their service. Servers are all polite, they seemed to be attentive to what we needed but one downside is that they were not able to serve my dad's order on time. It took a really long time (and I'm not exaggerating) for his main course to be served even after doing follow ups that he got pissed and decided to just leave. We hurriedly finished our meals (but dessert is to be served yet.. hehe) then left right away and that's the end of it. It's sad because that dinner is supposed to make him feel special, it was his birthday :(

STRAWBERRY TAHO, WINE AND STRAWBERRY FLAVORED DIRTY ICE CREAM



Almost every morning when I'm done with my night shift, I buy taho in front of our office building and I'm enjoying it while waiting for the next bus to arrive. When we went to Lourdes grotto, I heard a man shouting strawberry taho so I approached him and bought 3 glasses. Strawberry is one of my favorite fruits and like a child, I curiously watched the vendor as he's preparing the taho, I even asked and might have persuaded him to add more strawberries in the glasses. (Thank you kuya!) It doesn't taste special, the concoction he added tastes like the strawberry jam in glass jars but it's not too sweet and it complimented the blandness of the soya. What's special though is it was my first time to taste taho in strawberry flavor.




When we we're in Trinidad Benguet, a dirty ice cream vendor passed by the shop where we were buying pasalubong. It usually is cheese, chocolate and ube flavor in Manila but we're in Baguio so it makes sense to ask for a strawberry flavored ice cream right? Kuya said he has. I eagerly waited for the first cone. I was happy again! It really tastes like strawberries! Probably by now you wouldn't doubt that I really love strawberries.

One of the pasalubongs we bought is Strawberry wine. I'm not sure if they have it in other countries but in the Philippines, If I am right, Baguio is the first and only province that offers it. I did taste it and I didn't like it. It's a bit sweet but maybe I just wasn't born an alcoholic. To those I'm having Red Horse drinking sessions with, please be quiet. lol!

And oh, I almost forget, Vizco's along Session Road sells Strawberry shortcake. You might want to try it the next time you're in the area. It will be perfect while having coffee with your significant other. ^_^




Time is really fast and we've spent three days in the city. It has a lot to offer..things and places that shows the distinct and unique Baguio. I hope to explore more of the city in my next visits. For now, I'll just relish the memories the cold yet warm city left me.

La Brea Inn and the Attractions of Baguio City

The last time I’ve been to Baguio was during my sister’s graduation in UB. I was 16 at that time so (while counting).. that’s like eight years ago! Since then, I never really had a chance to stay and explore Baguio. I really missed the place considering I always stroll there before when I accompany my mom to give my sister's allowance. I also stayed there for one week when my friends and I took the entrance exams in SLU (but I decided to study in PUP Sta. Mesa) that’s why you would not imagine my excitement when my boyfriend and I decided to have a break and unwind from our ordinary routines – and the chosen destination? - The City of Pines.

Nikko had me do the planning, probably because he’s not that enthusiastic about the place as I am. He thinks that Baguio is quite a boring place and just decided that Baguio is the place to go out of his love for me..lol! He must have known how I terribly missed walking on its streets, feeling the cold air brushing my skin. :D Besides being excited, I was challenged for I know this would be my chance to change the way Nikko perceive Baguio. I started working.

The first challenge for me was to look for a decent place to stay. We’re staying for two nights so I have various considerations – budget on top of it. I started browsing the net, and started calling different numbers to inquire. After some comparisons, I chose La brea Inn.

LA BREA INN
It’s located on AYK Bldg along Lower Session Rd. just accross Dunkin Donut and there's a Yellow Cab store on the ground floor.




I chose La Brea because of the reviews about them. During our stay, we paid P1,000.00/night which I think is reasonable. The room doesn't have aircon but I'd probably prefer to have a heater anyway. The room is spacious and clean. It’s located along Baguio's main road, making it very accessible but still, I slept very well,I didn't hear any noise from the outside.




We left Manila at 2:30 AM because we wanted to make it to the 3 AM trip of Victory Liner. On our way, since it’s still dark outside and we don’t have any views to see, we had some picture taking to keep ourselves entertained. We had like 16 photos but just one of them turned out ok, hahaha! Nikko seemed to be sleeping in all the pictures. Because of that, we got carried away and probably laughed that loud that we got some hard stares from other passengers, we know we had to stop. :D We had two stop overs, one in Tarlac City and the other one in Sison, Pangasinan. We have to transfer to a different bus though when we’re in Pangasinan because of flat tire. Thanks God, Victory Liner has lots of buses, it had not really been a problem at all. The travel was smooth and fast.




We arrived in Baguio at around 9 AM. It’s just a 6 hour travel. Since the check-in time is not until 1 PM, we decided to attend the mass in Baguio Cathedral first. Anyways, it’s the best to start the day with a prayer right? We took some pictures of the magnificent church afterwards. While we’re taking pictures, a photographer approached us and offered to take a picture of us together (Nikko and I) using our camera. We thanked him after but heard him say “kahit konting barya lang”. I suddenly got a little annoyed with that man’s gimmick but anyway we just gave him some change. It's actually ok to give - I just felt a bit tricked.

THE CATHEDRAL
I always drop by the cathedral during my Baguio visits. I like the stained glass windows for it reminds me of my most memorable church. (Mt. Carmel in New Manila) I remember climbing the high stairs along Session Rd to get to the church during earlier years but on our last visit, we took the road near the post office.




To let time pass, we also walked around SM Baguio, my first time to be here. What made it unique from the rest of SM malls is the inexistence of air conditioning. (Who would need AC in Baguio by the way?) The roof was elegantly designed as well. It also has a veranda like in SM Mall of Asia for a better appreciation of the view around the place. We also had our brunch here. I bought a pair of earrings from Ibay’s, continued taking a leisurely walk, hit the videoke and dropped by on some unfamiliar stores.






It was past 1 PM when we went back to La Brea. The whole day was spent sleeping, maybe because we both lack sleep for the past four days. But we had snacks at around four, got back to sleep and woke up 9 PM. We passed by many restaurants and cafe
along Session Rd before we finally decided where to have dinner - Pizza Volante. We both love pasta and most importantly, we've never seen any Volante stores in Manila before. We thought its worth trying it out.

PIZZA VOLANTE
Pizza Volante is also along Session Rd. When you're coming from Maharlika (bldg beside the market) going to probably SM, it's in the right side beside Greenwich and accross Restaurant Solibao.

Nothing's so special here, except the strawberry shake that I really loved, but considering their prices, it's amazingly cheap. Everything is good enough though. I ordered Pasta putanesca, Nikko had spaghetti with meatballs. I liked the taste of the sauce. We had Maui and Vegetarian Pizza and both are delicious. We tried their mango shake as well but I guess, nothing will beat the strawberry shake. I also appreciate the warm and relaxed ambiance inside the store. I noticed everytime we pass the area, they were always full customers. People must really love Pizza Volante.




The following morning, we started our itinerary by going to Tam-Awan Village. Since Nikko is a nature lover like myself, I really researched on places he might really be interested about. I’ve seen Tam-awan Village over the net and I decided it might be a beautiful place. I was right co’z I really loved the setting, and I‘m so sure as I look into Nikko’s face, he’s having fun and learning as well.

TAM-AWAN VILLAGE
Tam-awan Village can be reached by riding a jeep bound Quezon Hill - Tam-awan in Kayang St, that’s behind Abanao Square. You can just ask the driver to drop you off the place, yet you have to walk just a little further until you see the sign Tam-awan Village.






Manong Ronnie served as our guide, discussing facts about the different huts in Tam-awan. I learned that Ifugao Huts are normally higher than huts from Kalinga. Lizard sculptures are also found in Ifugao Huts. There's also a hut which they call the fertility hut because according to Manong Ronnie, it was practiced before that when a wife and his husband can't have a child, a priest together with the couple make rituals inside the hut and after that, couples are left inside the hut. (well you know what's gonna happen next right? haha!)




The oldest hut we've seen is the Anaba Hut which was built in 1898. The most unique hut according to Manong Ronnie is the Batad Hut because it already has an influence of Chinese culture. Natives from Batad were dealing with Chinese traders so the hut has a dragon sculpture in it plus it has decorations like beads and carpets. By the way, if you would want to experience how it is like to sleep inside the huts or to experience living in this huts, you can rent one hut for P900.00/night.




I also enjoyed the hilly terrain of Tam-awan. It's a good thing that it's a sunny day when we went there otherwise, it's gonna be hard to walk up the trail if it's slippery. When it's not yet foggy, once on the top, one can have a chance to view the province of La Union including South China Sea. Unfortunately we went there after lunch and the fog started to set in.




Tam-awan also has an art gallery and cafe. You can see numerous paintings and artworks. They are all for sale. The prices range from like Php5000-34000. Several artists are also there who can make visitors caricature/portrait for free. If you'd be kind enough, maybe you can just donate any amount for Chanum Foundation.




My most favorite part on our visit here is crossing the bamboo bridge. I did cross a hanging bridge before on our hike to Mt. Pulag but I guess, I'll never tire of crossing bridges.




Our next stop is in Bell Church. We rode a cab from Tam-awan to this place but if you're going to take a jeep from the town proper, you would need to ride a jeep going to La Trinidad. According to the person I asked, the jeepneys are parked beside the Baguio City hall. When we got there, we did not have the chance to climb to the top of the garden as the gate going to the top is only open weekends and Holidays. But their main temple is open for visitors throughout the week.


After Bell Church, we went to Camp del Pilar more commonly known as Philippine Military Academy.

PHILIPPINE MILITARY ACADEMY
The jeeps going to PMA are parked in Harrison near Burnham. Jeeps are bound Plaza - Kias - PMA.



We had a very funny experience in PMA because most of the cadets walking would salute or greet us the moment they pass by us. We don't really know how to react so we just gave an acknowledging smile everytime. There was this one instance where Nikko made a salute as well.. gee it was really awkward and funny.. can't help but laugh. Is it really their SOP to greet guests? I'm not really sure about that.




Our visit to PMA made us admire the cadets/cadettes. We realized how rigid their training is, I know how disciplined they should be to make it through. I really have high respect and admiration for everyone who graduated from PMA.




Before going back to the Inn, we also dropped by the Butterfly Haven in Club John Hay. It was already late and we thought it might already be closed but we took our chances and whala, we were still entertained.






We had one whole day of fun! It's tiring but discovering new places and experiencing new things especially together is something euphoric. We had dinner and decided to go to Burnham just to relax a bit. Anyways, it's just a short walk from where we're staying. We just spent the time sitting in one of the benches surrounding the pond, making small talks and unending asarans, cheesy jokes (haha!)jeez..I miss moments like this. I think we should do this more often. At 1 AM, we decided to pamper ourselves with the foods in Volante once again before we call the night a quits.

We woke up late the following morning and the plan to go to La Trinidad to pick strawberries and see the flower farm did not push through. Instead, we went to Maryknoll Ecological Sanctuary.

MARYKNOLL ECOLOGICAL SANCTUARY
Maryknoll can be reached by riding a jeep bound BGH - Campo Sioco in Harrison. It's just a five-minute travel. They do have a sign in the left side. Be sure to pay the entrance first before proceeding to the sanctuary. There might be no person who would entertain you at the gate but be sure to ask the people inside the bldg. They will be providing you tickets.




For me, this is the best place that I've been to in Baguio. The place has a calming effect. I feel like in this place, I can think of solutions to all the things that I've been pondering about.






The terrain is hilly, like when we're hiking. I suggest if you go to Baguio, don't miss out on going to this place, it's really a wonderful experience. The Ecological Sanctuary to my own understanding is the interpration of the creation of the universe and all the living things in it. When Nikko and I sat for a while on the garden of what seems to be a ruin of a bldg, I know that we're thinking thesame thing.. I feel like we had some magical moments in this place.




When we reached the high hut at the far end of the sanctuary, we both mentioned that this is indeed a beautiful world.. and we hope we would really start taking care of our home. We suddenly dreamed of having a rest house in Baguio with a garden like this.. haha! See how this moment changed Nikko's perspective about Baguio? He nearly don't wanna go home. :) I'm so glad that he appreciated the place, I know the way that I do now.






Those were all the places that we've been to during our three day stay in Baguio.
As we came home, I have a happy heart not just because I've been to this place that I missed so much but because my efforts have been paid off. I know Nikko really enjoyed with the discoveries of these places. I know a part of his heart is also left in Baguio. I'm thankful of all our bonding moments, the wonderful places we've come to experience and I'm really thankful to God because he made a very beautiful world...