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10 Must-Try Culinary Gems of Cagayan de Oro
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Cagayan de Oro, also known as CDO, is a vibrant city in Northern Mindanao, Philippines. Beyond its stunning natural beauty, CDO boasts a diverse and delicious food scene that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a local or a curious traveler, this guide will lead you on a culinary adventure through some of the city’s must-try restaurants, curated with the help of Cagayan de Oro’s own Henny and Jason Lim, the dynamic duo behind Vimcreek.
Henny and Jason are passionate about showcasing the city’s culinary gems, and their recommendations offer a delicious mix of local favorites, hidden finds, and upscale delights. So, get ready to embark on a flavor exploration that caters to every craving!
1. Cucina Higala
Look no further than Cucina Higala in Cagayan de Oro! This restaurant isn't just about delicious food; it's an experience. Cucina Higala takes traditional Filipino dishes, particularly those of Mindanao, and elevates them to modern masterpieces. Expect bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a warm atmosphere that celebrates the region's rich heritage. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Cucina Higala is a must-try for anyone wanting to embark on a culinary adventure through the heart of Mindanao.
❤️Personal Favorites: Beef Randang
📍222 Capistrano St, Cagayan de Oro, 9000 Misamis Oriental
📱0917 794 6118
👍FB Page: Cucina Higala
😋Check Out the Menu! Click Here
📸Photo Credits: Cucina Higala Facebook page
2. Fat Chef Restaurant
This homegrown gem, run by the passionate Rodriguez siblings, serves up classic Filipino dishes with a delicious twist. Think sizzling plates, hearty stews, and all your favorite Pinoy favorites. With a cozy ambiance and friendly service, Fat Chef promises a taste of home with every satisfying bite.
❤️Personal Favorites: Sizzling Sinigang
📍Gen A. Luna St, Cagayan de Oro, 9000 Misamis Oriental
📱0917 328 2431
👍FB Page: Fat Chef Restaurant
😋Check Out the Menu! Click Here
📸Photo Credits: Fat Chef Restaurant Facebook page
3. Bords Sizzling at Inihaw
This popular spot is a haven for inihaw (grilled) favorites like pork belly, chicken, and fish, all marinated to perfection and cooked over charcoal for an irresistible smoky flavor. But wait, there’s more! Bords also offers sizzling plates like sizzling porkchop and burger steak, perfect for those who love a satisfying sear. With affordable prices and a delicious mix of grilled and sizzling specialties, Bords’ Sizzling at Inihaw is a must-try for a casual and flavorful CDO dining experience.
❤️Personal Favorites: Bords Sizzling Beef Pares w/ Unli Rice
📍Tiano-Mabini St., Cagayan de Oro, Philippines
📱0917 506 9404
👍FB Page: Bords Sizzling at Inihaw
😋Check Out the Menu! Click Here
📸Photo Credits: Bords Sizziling at Inihaw Facebook page
4. Chop Chop Manolo
Headed back to the city after a busy day at Dahilayan? Pass by this hidden gem that offers a casual dining experience with expertly prepared barbecue. Their menu boasts tender cuts of meat cooked to perfection, perfect for satisfying solo cravings or feeding a hungry crew. Don’t miss out on this local favorite for a delicious and affordable taste of CDO’s grilling expertise.
❤️Personal Favorites: Shabu Shabu
📍DREAM RESIDENCES, SAN MIGUEL, MANOLO FORTICH, BUKIDNON 8703 Manolo Fortich, Philippines
📱0953 739 7221
👍FB Page: Chop Chop Manolo
😋Check Out the Menu! Click Here
📸Photo Credits: Chop Chop Manolo Facebook page
5. Heal Thy Self
Indulge in flavorful dishes made with healthy ingredients. Imagine juicy, grilled meats without the greasy aftertaste, or decadent desserts that nourish your body. Heal Thy Self is perfect for health-conscious foodies who want a satisfying yet guilt-free experience.
❤️Personal Favorites: Bukidnon’s Harvest (Farmer’s Pick)
📍Ground Floor Centrio Mall
📱0917 757 9612
👍FB Page: Heal Thy Self
😋Check Out the Menu! Click Here
📸Photo Credits: Heal Thy Self Facebook page
6. Steve's Jr Borja Extension
This Cagayan de Oro gem satisfies those midnight meat sweats with their expertly grilled specialties. Tender and flavorful, their offerings are perfect for a solo indulgence or a late-night shared feast. So next time hunger strikes after dark, head to Steve’s Jr and experience the magic of perfectly cooked BBQ.
❤️Personal Favorites: House Specialties
📍 J.R. Borja Street, Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental
📱0953 681 0275
👍FB Page: Steve’s Barbeque
😋Check Out the Menu! Click Here
📸Photo Credits: Steve’s Barbeque Facebook page
7. WOK HARD
This hidden gem along Kauswagan Road offers a tastebud adventure. Their menu features sizzling stir-fries, comforting noodle dishes, and other Asian specialties, all prepared with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor. So ditch the ordinary and dive into the delicious world of WOK HARD – your next Asian food fix awaits!
❤️Personal Favorites: Tonkatsu
📍SM by pass road beside Court Yard Subdivision 9000 Cagayan de Oro, Philippines
📱0956 166 7463
👍FB Page: WOK HARD
😋Check Out the Menu! Click Here
📸Photo Credits: WOK HARD Facebook page
8. Thai Me Up
This restaurant, lauded for its beautiful plating and aromatic curries, offers a taste of Thailand in a luxurious setting. Whether you’re a Pad Thai enthusiast or seeking a spicy Tom Yum adventure, Thai Me Up’s menu caters to every Thai food desire. So ditch the instant noodles and treat yourself to a delightful (and delicious) Thai escape!
❤️Personal Favorites: Pandan Chicken
📍Masterson Mile, Masterson Avenue Pueblo Uptown, Cagayan de Oro, Philippines
📱0917 323 7018
👍FB Page: Thai Me Up
😋Check Out the Menu! Click Here
📸Photo Credits: Thai Me Up Facebook page
9. Cuesta Roccia Restaurant
Nestled on a hill, it boasts panoramic vistas of Cagayan de Oro’s scenic landscape. While the ambiance is undeniably romantic, their delectable dishes cater to all occasions. Expect a menu filled with culinary delights, perfect for a memorable night out.
❤️Personal Favorites: Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
📍Abbas Orchard Farm Campus road Sitio Taguanao, Indahag, Cagayan de Oro
📱0999 566 1765
👍FB Page: Cuesta Roccia
😋Check Out the Menu! Click Here
📸Photo Credits: Cuesta Roccia Facebook page
10. Oak Room
Cap off your Cagayan de Oro adventure at the Oak Room, a stylish bar boasting an ambience as smooth as its drinks. Unwind after a day of exploration and indulge in their extensive selection of spirits and expertly crafted cocktails. Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado or a curious mixology enthusiast, the Oak Room promises an unforgettable night out in the heart of CDO’s vibrant nightlife scene.
❤️Personal Favorites: Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
📍Gateway Park, Limketkai Drive 9000 Cagayan de Oro, Philippines
📱0977 656 5370
👍FB Page: The Oak Room CDO
😋Check Out the Menu! Click Here
📸Photo Credits: The Oak Room CDO Facebook page