Food History of Botanical Garden Baguio, Baguio, Philippines
The Botanical Garden in Baguio, known as the City of Pines, isn't typically associated with a distinct food history of its own, but rather is situated in a city with a rich culinary tradition influenced by various cultures. Baguio’s diverse community, including indigenous groups, American colonial influence, and a burgeoning community of locals and tourists, have all contributed to its food landscape.
Baguio City's cool climate is ideal for growing a variety of vegetables and strawberries, making it famous for dishes that highlight these fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Restaurants and eateries around the city, including those near the Botanical Garden, serve a mix of traditional Filipino dishes, indigenous Igorot cuisine, and contemporary food items that cater to the taste of both local and foreign visitors.
Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Botanical Garden Baguio
- Strawberry Taho (Veg) - A local delicacy that combines fresh strawberries and syrup with the traditional Filipino tofu snack.
- Pinikpikan (Non-Veg) - A Cordillera native chicken dish known for its unique preparation method and savory broth.
- Baguio Longganisa (Non-Veg) - A local version of the Philippine sausage, often garlicky and served at breakfast.
- Fresh Vegetable Salad (Veg) - Made from the crisp, fresh vegetables grown in the highlands of the region.
- Baguio Bagnet (Non-Veg) - A crispy, deep-fried pork dish similar to Ilocos's famous bagnet but often found in Baguio.
- Sinigang na Bangus sa Strawberry (Non-Veg) - A unique twist on the classic sour soup made with milkfish and strawberries.
- Vegetarian Kebabs (Veg) - Grilled vegetable skewers that are popular among health-conscious diners.
- Choco-Mint Pastries (Veg) - Delicious desserts that incorporate the rich chocolate and fresh mint Baguio is known for.
- Ube Jam (Veg) - A sweet and creamy jam made from the famous purple yam of the Philippines, perfect as a spread or a souvenir.
- Kinuday (Non-Veg) - Smoked meat, typically pork, that is an Igorot delicacy often enjoyed at local festivities.
Top Famous Restaurants in Botanical Garden Baguio
While the Botanical Garden itself may not host a restaurant, there are several notable dining spots around Baguio that offer an array of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Here are a few of them:
- Café by the Ruins
- – Address: 25 Shuntug St, Baguio, Benguet
- – Famous for: Ruins Coffee (Veg) and Camote Bread (Veg)
- Farmer's Daughter Restaurant
- – Address: Long Long Benguet Road, Baguio
- – Famous for: Pinikpikan (Non-Veg) and Etag (Non-Veg)
- Oh My Gulay
- – Address: 5/F La Azotea Bldg, Session Road, Baguio
- – Famous for: Vegetarian dishes such as Anak ng Putanesca (Veg) and Talbos ng Kamote Salad (Veg)
- Choco-late de Batirol
- – Address: Igorot Park, Camp John Hay, Baguio
- – Famous for: Traditional Filipino Hot Chocolate (Veg)
- Good Taste Cafe & Restaurant
- – Address: Carino St, Baguio, Benguet
- – Famous for: Buttered Chicken (Non-Veg) and Chopsuey (Veg)
- Amare La Cucina
- – Address: EGI Albergo Hotel, #1 Villamor Drive, Baguio
- – Famous for: Wood-fired pizzas such as Margherita (Veg) and Prosciutto (Non-Veg)
Note: Visitors are encouraged to always check if the restaurant serves the mentioned dish as menus can change over time.