Timeless: Cafe By The Ruins
Café By The Ruins claims to be the remains of the gracious homes of Phelps Whitmarsh, the first governor of Baguio City. The house was built very early in the last century and destroyed in World War II.
It is certainly the most unique restaurant in Baguio City in structure, menu, and philosophy. The ruins are a stretch of stone wall across the wall across the street of Baguio city Hall, relic of the last Governor General. Hanging plants, pieces of folk art and craft and artwork by Baguio artists emphasize the soul of this café. The restaurant was closed during the 1990 earthquake, but speed opened to run a soup kitchen that fed thousands.
The menu is designed to feature natural and local ingredients of the region, to purvey vegetables and fruits in their best season and to provide vegetarians some options. The food reflects the ecology and rhythm of Baguio City and Cordilleras. It is fresh, representing the best of the day’s market; it is home cooked and reflects vision of native tradition of health.
Café by the Ruins is pleased to present varieties of mountain rice, moscovado  sugar, fresh carabao milk, and cheeses, honey, pure cacao, upland coffee, etc.— all the proud product of the country.
“The menu change quarterly according to the seasons, represents not only a restaurant concept but an ethos.”
The ambiance is neither cheap nor expensive, but overall it is clean and comfortable. Ruin’s iced tea is definitely a “must try”. It comes with a shot of honey, it tasted bland - neither sweetness nor a bit sourness as expected on iced tea.  The tastes were getting better and better until the last drop was drunk.
The various types of bread are baked fresh, just like in an old-neighbourhood bakery with its own signature bread. Customers can choose to Eat indoor or outdoor. Price is reasonable for the food and Staffs were attentive, and service
From its Cordillera inspired menu to the restaurant’s bullet mark laden walls, this wonderful place serves as a memory of the how the venue was once a garden theatre.
Year written: 2014 Year visited: 2014 Reference: Cafe By The Ruins History (indicated on the restaurant’s menu)
