Cafe by the Ruins, located at the heart of Baguio City, is a great way to start the morning. The cafe’s interiors are embellished by wooden bamboo decorations that truly resemble it’s Benguet ethnicity. The cafe was literally built from the ruins left by the war. According the the cafe’s site, “The ruins we lay claim to are the remains of a garden theater which was later converted into the gracious home of Phelps Whitmarsh, the first civil governor of Benguet. The house was built early in the last century and destroyed in World War II. A meeting place and venue of many canaos (rituals to appease gods), the cafe occasionally hosts poetry readings, art exhibits and dance performances as well.”
The cafe therefore lets its guests experience the Benguet culture not only through the delectable cuisine and pastries they offer but also through other artistic expressions. But it was not a smooth ride for the owners and followers of the cafe. During the time when they announced their last day of operation, a lot of fans, diners and supporters swarmed to the cafe to pay tribute. The owners were overwhelmed by the immense support of the people so they decided to continue operating the cafe. To show gratitude to their supporters, the cafe even published and released a cookbook showcasing a collection of their exquisite cusine called “Café by the Ruins: Memories and Recipes”.
Among the must try’s at the cafe are the Baguio Bounty Salad and Ole Nick’s Open Face Sandwich that was actually named after Nick Joaquin, our National Artist for Literature. Not to be missed is the famous Pinikpikan cooked from an indigenous broth coming from Cordillera.
Overall, the delectable cuisine, the finely detailed interiors matched with superb performances make Cafe by the Ruins a must-see when in Baguio.
Address: 23 Chuntug Street, 2600 Baguio City, PhilippinesTel: (074) 442 4010