Walking into Ritz Cafe, it’s got that small-town, laid-back feel you’d expect in Bauang, a quieter spot compared to the surf-crazy San Juan. The staff are legit the MVPs here, super friendly and attentive, always checking in with a smile, making you feel like you’re at a buddy’s place. That kind of service is what keeps you coming back, especially in a chill town like Bauang.The vibe of the place, though? It’s just… alright. Nothing’s jumping out to make you go, “Whoa, this is dope!” It’s clean, probably got some basic cafe decor but it’s not the kind of spot you’re snapping a million Insta stories about. It’s like, functional, not fancy. Perfect for a quick bite or coffee, but don’t expect a vibe that’s gonna blow your mind or make you wanna linger all day.Now, the food and drinks are where it’s a mixed bag. The Batirol Mocha and Vanilla Matcha were fire. I’m picturing that mocha with a rich, chocolatey kick, maybe a nod to Filipino tsokolate, and the matcha with a creamy vanilla vibe that’s smooth. Those drinks are probably what you’d drag your friends back for, like, “Yo, you gotta try this mocha, it’s legit.”But then we get to the food, and it’s where things slide downhill. The Smoky Savory Carbonara sounds like it could’ve been a banger, but if the bacon’s doing all the heavy lifting for flavor, that’s a red flag. A good carbonara should be creamy, cheesy, with that peppery goodness wrapping it all together not just a plate of pasta leaning on bacon to save it. Kinda feels like they half-phoned it in. And the Chicken a la King? Man, that sounds like a straight-up flop. Tough, chewy chicken that tastes like it was yanked from a freezer bag, with barely any sauce to make it worth eating? That’s the kind of dish that makes you side-eye the kitchen, like, “Y’all okay back there?” It’s giving cheap frozen dinner vibes, and nobody’s got time for that when you’re paying for a cafe meal.So, wrapping it up, Ritz Cafe in Bauang’s got some solid moments, those drinks and the House Spoonful are clutch, and the staff’s warmth makes it feel welcoming. But the lackluster food and the “eh” environment keep it from being a must-hit spot. Three stars feels fair: it’s not a total skip, but it’s not the place you’re raving about to everyone back home either. If you’re in Bauang, maybe swing by for a Batirol Mocha and skip the...
Read moreIf you ever find yourself wandering around Mines View Park, do yourself a favor and drop by Ritz Café. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
✨ Beef Salpicao First up, the Beef Salpicao — pure heaven on a plate. The beef? So tender it practically melts in your mouth, and the garlicky, buttery sauce is an absolute knockout. Although I feel like some garlic bits were a bit big. Every bite is bursting with that savory, slightly peppery goodness that makes you close your eyes and savor it just a little longer. Bonus points for how perfectly they cooked it — juicy with a hint of char!
🍫 Choco Peppermint Drink Now, let’s talk about the star of my drink lineup: the Choco Peppermint. Rich, creamy cold chocolate, but with a refreshing minty twist that wakes up your senses. It’s like a hug in a cup — sweet but not overwhelming, with that cool peppermint zing making it feel like a festive treat no matter the season. Definitely a must-sip for all the chocoholics out there.
🎯 Final Thoughts Ritz Café nailed it with both dishes (and as per my daughter with her Beef Broccoli and Passionfruit Tea) Whether you’re warming up from Baguio’s crisp air or just need a little comfort food, this spot delivers big time. Cozy ambiance, friendly staff, and views for days. 10/10 would recommend!
Pro tip: Grab a window seat for the ultimate Mines View Park vibes. And yes, you will...
Read moreI recently visited Ritz Café for the first time, and I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of both the food and the overall experience. Their Grilled Chicken Pesto was absolutely delicious—perfectly grilled chicken with a rich, flavorful pesto sauce that complemented it beautifully. The portion was generous, and every bite was satisfying.
I also tried their Special Batirol (Non-Caffeine), and it was a real treat! The drink was smooth, rich, and comforting, with just the right amount of sweetness. It’s a great option for those who want something warm and indulgent without the caffeine kick.
Beyond the food, what really stood out to me was the excellent customer service. The staff was attentive, friendly, and made sure I had everything I needed. The ambiance of the café was cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot to relax. I also loved the background music—it was lively but not overwhelming, adding a nice energy to the space.
Overall, Ritz Café left a great impression on me, and I’ll definitely be coming back. Highly recommended for anyone looking for good food, great drinks, and a...
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