Baguio Budget Bites: New Good Taste Restaurant Review

Ah, Baguio. The City of Pines, known for its cool climate, breathtaking scenery, and...supposedly cheap and delicious eats.

(Dry?) Chicken Curry

Well, on our recent trip, my brother, his girlfriend, and I decided to try a place called New Good Taste Cafe & Restaurant. The name promised a delightful culinary experience. We have high hopes thanks to local recommendations, we ventured to New Good Taste for what promised to be a delicious adventure but let's just say it left us feeling a little disappointed. 

Buttered Chicken 

Saving on Flavor?

Look, I get it. Budget travel is all about finding those hidden gems that won't break the bank. And yes, New Good Taste is undeniably cheap. The portions are decent, and the prices are rock-bottom. But here's the thing – cheap doesn't have to mean bland.  The food, well, it wasn't exactly bad. But it wasn't good either. It fell somewhere in the realm of "meh." We ordered their recommended best sellers- grilled spare ribs, shrimp tofu, chicken curry, and buttered chicken. Everything tasted a bit...off. Like maybe the ingredients weren't quite fresh, or the recipes were missing that special touch.

Spare ribs with rice 

The Hot Water Fiasco

Then there was the whole hot water situation. We politely requested hot water to sanitize our utensils before digging in (a standard practice in many Filipino households). To our surprise, the waitress informed us there would be a 10 peso charge for the hot water! Now, 10 pesos isn't a lot, but the principle of the thing just rubbed us the wrong way. We weren't asking for a fancy broth, just hot water to ensure cleanliness. After a brief discussion with the waitress, I politely asked her to ask her manager. The manager ultimately waived the charge.

The Verdict: Save Your Stomach (and Maybe Your Money)

Look, if you're on a super tight budget in Baguio and just need to fill your stomach with something vaguely resembling food, then New Good Taste might do the trick. But honestly, with so many other amazing options in the city, I'd recommend skipping this one. For a few pesos more, you can find fantastic local eateries that offer both delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere.

The Silver Lining

The one positive takeaway? The long line outside. Maybe we just ordered the wrong dishes, or maybe our taste buds were having an off day. Who knows? The point is, if you're feeling adventurous and want to give New Good Taste a try, be my guest. Just don't say I didn't warn you about the hot water!

Lesson Learned:

Sometimes, the cheapest option isn't always the best. When it comes to food, especially in a place like Baguio, it's worth doing a little research and finding a place that offers both affordability and flavor. Next time, we'll stick to the tried-and-true recommendations or explore a local market for some street food – now that's where you can find the real budget-friendly gems!

Shrimp tofu 

Fortune Hongkong Seafood Restaurant: A Baguio Gem

Walking into Fortune Hongkong Restaurant is like stepping into a world of refined elegance. Large windows bathe the space in natural light, while the décor exudes a subtle sophistication. The real magic unfolds when you delve into the menu. It's a treasure map leading you through an array of fresh seafood specialties and mouthwatering dim sum options.

Prepare for a dent in your wallet. This is a fine-dining experience with a price tag to match. But, oh boy, was it worth it! 

Let's talk deliciousness!

We dove headfirst into the Fortune Seafood Spinach Soup. The flavors were incredible - a rich, savory broth brimming with fresh seafood and perfectly complemented by the earthy notes of the spinach. Every spoonful was a symphony of taste. For those with kidney problem and high blood pressure make sure to request for less or no salt and less or no msg! The portion of spinach soap I received was much smaller than what I've got from other Chinese Restaurants in Manila. In Manila, apparently the soap is served up to the brim. I wonder if this is the typical portion size for the spinach soap in Fortune Hongkong Restaurant in Baguio or if there might have been a mistake with my order.

But the true pièce de résistance was their Yang Chow Fried rice! The flavors were an orchestra on the tongue. The fluffy rice subtle smoky flavor complimented the Char siu (叉燒) or Chinese BBQ pork addition, giving it a meaty and savory note playing in perfect harmony. Every bite was a revelation, leaving me yearning for more.

Finally, we ventured into the realm of spice with the Minced Hot and Spicy Chicken Fillet Sze Chuan Style. This dish was a fiery explosion of flavor! The chicken was perfectly cooked, tender and juicy, and the Sze Chuan peppercorns packed a real punch. Be warned, this one isn't for the faint of heart, but for those who love a good kick, it's pure heaven.

Now, here's where things got a little disappointing. When it came time to box up our leftovers, it felt like we received less than half of what we actually had on our plates. We paid in full for the entire meal, so it was a bit of a bummer to see a significant portion seemingly disappear.

I sincerely hope this was an isolated incident and they won't pull this on other patrons.

Overall, Fortune Hongkong Seafood Restaurant is a place for those who appreciate exceptional flavor and don't mind paying a premium. Just be mindful of your leftovers (if any)!

#FortuneHongkongSeafoodRestaurant

Tranquil Escape: The St. Francis Xavier Seminary Bamboo Sanctuary

Breathe Deep in Baguio's Bamboo Haven: A Day at the St. Francis Xavier Seminary Sanctuary. 

Baguio's refreshing air is a welcome break from the scorching heat in Manila, where temperatures can hit a sweltering 43°C to 48°C!

The cool mountain breeze of Baguio is a constant draw, but sometimes you crave a little more than just crisp air. Enter the St. Francis Xavier Seminary Bamboo Sanctuary.  This hidden oasis tucked away in the city that offers a serene escape into a world of rustling leaves and towering stalks.

This past weekend, I decided to trade the usual tourist spots for some tranquility and ventured out to the sanctuary with a backpack full of curiosity and a camera eager to capture the beauty.

A Walk Through a Living Cathedral

Stepping through the entrance, I was immediately transported to a different world. Towering bamboo stalks, reaching high towards the sky, formed a natural cathedral overhead. Sunlight filtering through the leaves created a dappled mosaic on the pathway, and the gentle rustle of the wind in the bamboo was the only sound that broke the peaceful silence.

The walking trails wound their way through the dense bamboo forest, offering glimpses of hidden nooks and quiet corners. Each turn presented a new photo opportunity – the way the light played on the bamboo, the intricate patterns formed by the stalks, or the surprising burst of color from a hidden wildflower.

Nature's Symphony and Sustainable Charm

The sanctuary wasn't just visually stunning; it was an auditory treat as well. The rustling bamboo leaves created a calming symphony, perfect for quieting the mind and allowing nature's music to take over.

Beyond the beauty, the eco-friendly aspect of the sanctuary truly impressed me. The thoughtful use of bamboo in walkways, signage, and even some shelters highlighted the versatility and sustainability of this natural resource. It felt good to be exploring a place that embraced nature and promoted responsible practices.

A Moment of Mindfulness

After exploring the various trails, I found a quiet spot atop the cardio trail and simply sat, letting the tranquility wash over me. The gentle breeze rustling through the bamboo forest created a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxing and clearing your head.

A Baguio Must-Visit

Whether you're a nature enthusiast seeking a peaceful escape or simply someone looking for a unique Baguio experience, the St. Francis Xavier Seminary Bamboo Sanctuary is a must-visit. It's a place to reconnect with nature, find inner peace, and capture some truly stunning photos. So next time you're in Baguio, skip the crowded tourist spots and take a walk through this hidden gem. You won't be disappointed

Have you ever visited a bamboo sanctuary? Share your favorite hidden escapes in the comments below!