If you’re planning a trip to Baguio, one thing you absolutely must do is dive into its vibrant street food scene. Baguio, often referred to as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines,” is famous for its cool climate, picturesque views, and delicious street food. From sweet treats to savory snacks, the street foods in Baguio offer a delightful culinary adventure. Let’s explore some of the must-try street foods in this beautiful city.
Related: The 22 Most Popular Filipino Street Foods That Will Make You Crave
What’s Inside
- Strawberry Taho
- Dirty Ice Cream
- Cheese Corn
- Binatog
- Tusok-Tusok
- Ihaw-Ihaw
- Grilled Balut
- Grilled Corn
1. Strawberry Taho
Strawberry taho is an iconic street food in Baguio that you can’t miss. This sweet snack is made of silken tofu, sago pearls, and a generous topping of fresh strawberry syrup. The strawberries used in the syrup are locally sourced from the nearby strawberry farms, making it a fresh and delightful treat. Vendors often carry containers on their shoulders, calling out “taho” as they walk through the streets. Grab a cup of this warm and sweet snack, especially in the morning!
2. Dirty Ice Cream
Dirty ice cream, also known as sorbetes, is a staple in Filipino street food culture and a must-try in Baguio. Despite its name, it’s perfectly safe to eat and is typically served in either a small cup or a cone. Vendors push brightly colored carts through the streets, offering flavors like mango, ube (purple yam), cheese, and chocolate. The texture is slightly grainy compared to commercial ice cream, but its unique flavors and the experience of buying it from a street vendor make it a delightful treat.
3. Cheese Corn
Cheese corn is another popular street food in Baguio, especially loved by those who enjoy a mix of sweet and savory flavors. This snack consists of steamed corn kernels generously coated with margarine and sprinkled with cheese powder. The combination of the warm, buttery corn and the savory cheese powder creates a comforting and delicious treat. It’s often sold by street vendors and is a great snack to enjoy while exploring the city.
4. Binatog
Binatog is a comforting street food made of boiled white corn kernels mixed with grated coconut and sugar. Sometimes, a bit of salt is added for an extra kick. This snack is typically sold by street vendors pushing carts and is a popular treat, particularly in the late afternoon. Its creamy and slightly sweet flavor makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
5. Tusok-Tusok
Tusok-tusok is a collective term for various skewered street foods commonly found in the Philippines, and Baguio is no exception. This category includes fish balls, squid balls, kikiam, kwek-kwek (quail eggs coated in an orange batter), and tokneneng (battered chicken or duck eggs). These snacks are deep-fried and served with a selection of dipping sauces, such as sweet, spicy, or vinegar-based sauces. Vendors usually set up portable carts with a frying pan filled with hot oil, allowing customers to pick and dip their own skewers. It’s a fun and interactive street food experience.
6. Ihaw-Ihaw
Ihaw-ihaw, or grilled street food, is a staple in Baguio. This category includes a variety of skewered meats and offal, such as pork barbecue, isaw (chicken intestines), betamax (grilled chicken blood), and adidas (chicken feet). These skewers are marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, calamansi, and spices, then grilled over hot coals to perfection. The smoky flavor and tender texture make ihaw-ihaw a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Pair it with a side of rice or eat it on its own as a tasty snack.
7. Grilled Balut
Grilled balut offers a unique twist on the traditional fertilized duck egg. The egg is grilled over hot coals, adding a smoky flavor to the already rich and savory taste of balut. It’s usually served with a mixture of vinegar, salt, and chili, enhancing its flavor profile. This street food is perfect for those looking to try a different take on a Filipino classic. The grilling process also gives the egg a slightly crispy exterior, providing a delightful contrast to the soft interior.
8. Grilled Corn
Grilled corn, or “inihaw na mais,” is a street food staple in Baguio. The corn is grilled over charcoal, giving it a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with its natural sweetness. Vendors usually slather the corn with butter and sprinkle it with salt, though some offer a variety of toppings like cheese or chili powder. It’s a simple yet satisfying snack that’s perfect for munching on while enjoying the cool Baguio breeze.
Exploring the street foods in Baguio is a delightful adventure for your taste buds. So, when you find yourself in the cool and scenic city of Baguio, make sure to indulge in these delicious street foods for a truly memorable experience. Enjoy your food trip and happy eating!
