Where to Eat in Baguio

A Baguio institution built around the ruins of an old structure destroyed in World War II, with an open, garden-like dining room full of plants and local art. The menu leans on Cordillera produce: try Ernie's camote bread with strawberry jam, Baguio bagnet, crispy tapa, arroz caldo and their brewed Benguet coffee. Breakfast here is a classic first-morning ritual for many visitors.

The pasalubong stop every tita insists on. The Religious of the Good Shepherd sell their famous ube jam, strawberry jam, peanut brittle, lengua de gato and other treats, with proceeds supporting their scholars and livelihood programs. Lines can be long and bestsellers run out, so arrive early. A small café area and a viewpoint behind the shop make it worth lingering a bit.

Set inside Casa Vallejo, one of Baguio's oldest heritage buildings, Hill Station is the go-to for a cozy, slightly special dinner. The menu mixes Asian, European and Filipino flavors, with favorites like smoked paprika roast salmon and paella negra, plus excellent desserts. Warm wood interiors and a fireplace-like vibe make it perfect for cold evenings and dates.

A whimsical vegetarian restaurant on the top floor of La Azotea, created by filmmaker Kidlat Tahimik's family. Climb the stairs into a maze of art installations, bridges, plants and recycled wood, then order playful dishes like Lapu-Lapu Lumpia, Pancit Gulay ni Pepe and Anak ng Putanesca. Even meat lovers come for the vibe and city views. A Baguio art-scene classic.

The cheap-and-big-servings legend of Baguio. Good Taste serves Filipino-Chinese comfort food like buttered chicken, pancit, sweet and sour pork and fried rice in huge platters meant for sharing, at prices that make barkadas and families very happy. Expect lines at peak meal times, fast turnover and no-frills interiors. It is where a lot of Baguio trips end up for at least one meal.

A sprawling, gritty, very real market where locals shop for highland vegetables, fresh strawberries, longganisa, coffee beans and Cordillera crafts. It is the best place for cheap pasalubong like strawberry jam, peanut brittle, walis tambo and woven fabrics, and for finding Benguet arabica at good prices. Wander the aisles, haggle politely, and grab a quick meal at the carinderias. Go early for the freshest produce.