The Burrrp in Baguio

Went recently to Baguio for work. It has been years since I last went to this mountain town, and yes, big, big changes have been made. There was SM Baguio for one and Session road was not as packed as it used to be. The Chinese population seemed to balloon into big proportions-- they were everywhere. But the cold, yes, the cold, lovely weather is still there to stay. Brrr.

Since the trip was for work, I wasn't able to roam around because I was, well, working. But after being cooped up in the mansion on the cliff  working and writing and eating instant food for three days,   it was time to nourish ourselves with some of the best eats in the city of Pines.

Oh My Gulay
This is a resto located in the third floor of one of those small buildings in Session Road. I love the atmosphere - it was artsy, shabby chic, forest-y and native all in one. Upon entering, you can feast your eyes with artworks and paintings on the wall.
One caveat for my fellow carnivores  -the fare in Oh My Gulay is strictly vegetarian.
Try the puttanesca, the house salad and pear crepe they call Super Sosy.
Of course, it is a violation not to try the yummy brewed coffee! And in my opinion, drinking brewed coffee in Baguio is the life.

House Salad

Puttanesca

Pear Crepe

Cafe by The Ruins
If eating at Oh My Gulay is all about veggies (and healthy!), Cafe by the ruins has a huge selection of specialties.
They say that if Tagaytay has Sonya's Garden and Bohol has Bohol Bee farm, then Baguio has Cafe by The Ruins. Maybe because of the general feel of the place plus, Cafe by the Ruins also has specialty breads and spreads. Their camote bread (75 pesos) is a must try.  I also brought home a couple of jars of strawberry preserves (180 pesos).

Camote Bread

Since it was raining at that time, I opted to lunch on a hot soupy dish called Pinikpikan. It is a Cordillera specialty which is known for the manner on how the chicken is prepared. The native chicken is being slightly beaten so that coagulated blood may rise to the surface of the meat. Locally the manner is called "pikpik" hence the name of the dish. Well, it sounds harsh and even barbaric, but for what its worth, it tasted good. So dear poor chicken, your sacrifice and pain was worth it.

Pinikpikan

Here are some of the dishes I and my companions have tried: the Chicken with Bamboo shoots (this was good, the shoots are still crisp and the chicken, tender). I forgot the exact name of the dish though. 

Of course there was Adobo  Flakes, a Purple soup (Purple Passion was the name, I reckon), some iced tea with fancy presentation, and hot chocolate. 

Chicken with Bamboo Shoots 

Adobo Flakes

Purple Soup

Iced Tea

Chocolate

Despite the changes, Baguio is still Baguio, where you can revel at the lovely weather and the local eats.  Indeed Baguio still has its charms. Can't wait to explore more local happenings and eating places in Baguio when I return.