Cafe by the Ruins: A Timeless Stop for Coffee, Culture, and Comfort in Baguio City

Baguio City has always held a special place in the hearts of travelers. Its cool climate, pine-scented air, and slow, soulful rhythm make it a natural refuge from the rush of city life. On one of our recent trips, my fiancé and I decided to revisit a place that locals and tourists alike often speak of with nostalgia and affection—Cafe by the Ruins. Tucked in the heart of the city, this café is more than just a place to eat and drink; it is a living piece of Baguio’s history.

How to Get There

Cafe by the Ruins is conveniently located along Shuntug Street, just a short walk from Session Road and Baguio City Public Market. From Session Road, we simply walked downhill toward the market, passed the City Hall area, and followed the signs pointing to Shuntug Street. The walk took us about five to ten minutes, depending on our pace and how often we stopped to admire the surroundings.

For those commuting, jeepneys heading to the public market or city hall will drop passengers nearby. Taxis are also affordable in Baguio, and most drivers know Cafe by the Ruins well—just say the name, and they will take you straight there. The café’s central location makes it an easy stop whether you are exploring the city on foot or hopping between tourist spots.

First Impressions and Ambiance

As soon as we stepped inside, we were greeted by an atmosphere that felt both rustic and artistic. Cafe by the Ruins lives up to its name, with exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and an open, airy layout that allows natural light to flood the space. My fiancé and I immediately noticed how the café seamlessly blends history with modern charm. The interiors feature local art, hand-painted signage, and wooden furniture that looks intentionally weathered yet thoughtfully arranged.

The place feels alive but never overwhelming. Conversations hum softly in the background, plates clink gently, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air. We saw groups of friends chatting, solo travelers journaling, and couples quietly enjoying their meals. It felt like a space where everyone belonged.

A Truly Instagrammable Spot

We could not help but take photos almost immediately. Every corner of Cafe by the Ruins feels Instagram-worthy without trying too hard. The earthy tones, textured walls, and natural lighting create the perfect backdrop for photos. My fiancé and I took candid shots by the windows, flat-lay photos of our coffee and pastries on the wooden table, and even a few wide shots capturing the café’s cozy yet open ambiance.

What we loved most was that the café does not feel staged or artificial. Instead, it feels authentic, which makes every photo look warm and genuine. Whether you are a content creator or just someone who loves capturing memories, Cafe by the Ruins offers endless opportunities for beautiful shots.

What We Ordered: Coffee and Pastry Review

After browsing the menu, we decided to keep our order simple and budget-friendly. My fiancé ordered a locally sourced brewed coffee, while I chose a latte. To pair with our drinks, we shared a homemade pastry, which the staff recommended as one of their bestsellers.

The coffee was rich, smooth, and deeply comforting. We appreciated how it was not overly bitter, allowing the natural flavors of the beans to shine through. The latte was perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of milk to complement the espresso. Each sip felt warm and grounding—perfect for Baguio’s cool weather.

The pastry was a pleasant surprise. Lightly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, it had just the right amount of sweetness without being overwhelming. We loved that it tasted homemade, not mass-produced. For the quality and portion size, the price felt very reasonable. For travelers on a budget, Cafe by the Ruins proves that you do not need to overspend to enjoy good food and great coffee.

Affordable and Worth It

One of the things that stood out to us was how affordable the experience was, especially considering the café’s reputation and location. The coffee and pastry combination fit well within a modest budget, making it accessible for students, backpackers, and couples like us who want quality without breaking the bank.

Compared to more commercial cafés, Cafe by the Ruins offers better value—not just in taste, but in the overall experience. You are paying not only for food and drinks, but for atmosphere, history, and a sense of place.

Final Thoughts

By the time we finished our coffee, my fiancé and I felt relaxed, inspired, and grateful that we had taken the time to slow down. Cafe by the Ruins is not just a café; it is a reflection of Baguio’s soul—creative, grounded, and quietly powerful. It invites people to sit, talk, reflect, and connect, whether with their companions or with the city itself.

For anyone visiting Baguio City, we highly recommend making Cafe by the Ruins part of your itinerary. Come for the affordable coffee and pastries, stay for the ambiance, and leave with memories—and photos—that you will want to revisit again and again.

Cheerio!