One of the great pleasures of staying at Orange House is the proximity to an incredible variety of dining options. From traditional Cordillera dishes to international fine dining, Camp John Hay and the surrounding Baguio area offer a culinary journey that will delight any food lover.
Dining at Camp John Hay
Within walking distance of Orange House, Camp John Hay hosts several exceptional restaurants offering diverse cuisines in beautiful settings.
The Manor Hotel Restaurants: The Manor features multiple dining venues including a fine dining restaurant with mountain views, a casual cafe, and specialty dining experiences. Their Sunday brunch buffet is particularly popular, featuring both international and Filipino specialties.
Lonestar Steakhouse: Housed in a historic building that once served as barracks, Lonestar offers premium steaks, seafood, and international comfort food in a unique setting rich with history.
19th Tee: This casual dining spot near the golf course serves hearty breakfast options, burgers, sandwiches, and local favorites. Perfect for a meal after a morning round of golf.
Traditional Cordillera Cuisine
No visit to Baguio is complete without trying authentic Cordillera dishes. These traditional foods reflect the rich cultural heritage of the mountain provinces.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Pinikpikan: A traditional chicken dish unique to the Cordilleras, prepared using indigenous cooking methods
- Etag: Smoked and cured pork, a delicacy that showcases traditional preservation techniques
- Pinuneg: A blood sausage similar to dinuguan but with unique local preparation
- Imbeng: Rice steamed in bamboo tubes, giving it a distinctive flavor
- Fresh Vegetables: Baguio's cool climate produces exceptional vegetables including strawberries, lettuce, broccoli, and local greens
Baguio's Famous Strawberry Experience
Baguio is renowned for its strawberries, and no visit is complete without enjoying them fresh. Visit nearby strawberry farms (December to May) for pick-your-own experiences, or enjoy strawberry taho (a silky tofu dessert), strawberry jam, and fresh strawberries with cream available throughout the city.
Session Road and Downtown Dining
A short drive from Orange House, Session Road and downtown Baguio offer numerous dining options:
Good Taste Restaurant: A Baguio institution serving affordable Chinese-Filipino cuisine. Try their beef steak or fried chicken.
Hill Station: Fine dining with a view, offering contemporary Asian and Western cuisine in an elegant setting.
Oh My Gulay: A unique vegetarian restaurant set in a rooftop garden, featuring art installations and organic vegetables from nearby farms.
Café by the Ruins: Serving traditional Filipino and Cordillera cuisine in a historic setting with outdoor garden seating.
Night Market Food Adventure
Baguio's famous night market (Harrison Road) operates year-round but is especially vibrant during peak season. Here you'll find:
- Fresh fruits including strawberries, apples, and oranges
- Street food favorites like isaw (grilled chicken intestines), fish balls, and kwek-kwek
- Hot soups and noodles perfect for cool evenings
- Local delicacies and pasalubong (gifts to bring home)
- Unique local products and handicrafts
Coffee Culture in Baguio
Baguio boasts a thriving coffee culture with numerous cafes serving locally-grown Benguet coffee and international blends:
Baguio Craft Brewery: Combining craft beer with excellent food and coffee
Rumah Senja: Indonesian cuisine and specialty coffee in a cozy atmosphere
Vizco's: Famous for strawberry shortcake and mountain views
Choco-late de Batirol: Traditional hot chocolate prepared the Filipino way with fresh local cacao
Cooking at Orange House
With a fully equipped modern kitchen, Orange House allows you to prepare your own meals using Baguio's incredible fresh produce. Visit local markets to shop for:
- Fresh vegetables from nearby farms
- Local meats and poultry
- Artisanal cheese and dairy products
- Fresh-baked bread and pastries
- Local honey and preserves
Many guests enjoy preparing breakfast at Orange House before heading out for adventures, then dining out for lunch and dinner. The kitchen is perfect for families with young children or groups with specific dietary needs.
Food Tours and Cooking Classes
Several local operators offer food tours showcasing Baguio's culinary scene, from street food adventures to farm-to-table experiences. Cooking classes teaching traditional Cordillera dishes or modern Filipino cuisine can also be arranged.
Dining Tips
- Make reservations for popular restaurants during peak season and weekends
- Try local dishes – Baguio's unique location creates unique flavors
- Don't miss the night market experience at least once
- Ask locals for recommendations – Baguio residents are proud of their food scene
- Save room for dessert – Baguio's cool climate makes it perfect for pastries and sweet treats
Whether you're a foodie seeking culinary adventures or simply looking for comfortable, delicious meals during your vacation, the dining options near Orange House will exceed your expectations. From your first morning coffee to late-night snacks, Baguio's food scene adds another dimension to your mountain getaway.