A Taste of Baguio: Modern Twists on Traditional Filipino Flavors

Another way to discover a locality is through its food. During my stay in Baguio City, I got a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals and had the opportunity to taste the region's traditional dishes. There is a perfect balance between the nutritional value and the flavor of each meal. Every bite feels like a harmonious blend of savory and tangy profiles.

Baguio is known for its fresh vegetables, so we decided to order dishes that showcase its specialty—fresh vegetables! We went with vegetable spring rolls and pork sinigang loaded with plenty of veggies.

We chose to dine at Brisa Del Baguio because they offer a modern take on traditional Filipino cuisine. I was curious to see how modern chefs reinterpret well-known regional recipes and transform them into dishes that appeal to a broader palate.

Many cultures have their own version of spring rolls, and this is especially true in Southeast Asia. I suppose the influence of Chinese cuisine has even reached the highlands of the Philippines.

The spring rolls were deep-fried to a perfect crunch—an excellent way to start a heavy meal. As an appetizer, the filling consisted of sautéed vegetables, allowing the freshness of the ingredients to shine. The combination of flavors and textures made each bite satisfying.

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Next, we tried the pork sinigang. The soup had a bold sourness, which balanced well with the rich, hearty flavor of the pork. Once again, the vegetables were cooked just right.

My favorite was the radish—it remained crisp despite being thoroughly cooked. Paired with steamed rice, the dish had a subtle savory note that made it even more enjoyable.

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For our final dish, we had a modernized version of Chicken Inasal. Traditionally, Inasal is grilled over charcoal, but this version featured deep-fried chicken skewers. The rice, infused with chicken oil, was incredibly flavorful and complemented the dish perfectly.

Overall, the meal was a great introduction to the local cuisine and a taste of the region’s distinct flavors. The Philippines is a vast country with diverse cultures, and exploring its food scene is an adventure that could take a lifetime.

As for the ambiance, the modern-contemporary design of the dining space made for a comfortable experience. The restaurant was well-ventilated, and the cool Baguio weather enhanced the cozy dining atmosphere. I’ve had a lot of amazing food during my stay in Baguio City, and I can't wait to return and explore even more of this part of the world!

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Dining at Brisa Del Baguio was a delightful experience that showcased the perfect balance between tradition and innovation in Filipino cuisine. From the crispy spring rolls to the rich and hearty sinigang, each dish highlighted the region’s fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Baguio City has so much more to offer, and I can’t wait to return for another round of culinary exploration!

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