No matter the distance —has been a mantra especially to one with a growling tummy. Luckily for us, we need not travel far in order to satisfy a gustatory craving. From all corners, Davao has become a foodie haven of cuisines from all over the world. And the best part? These replicated dishes utilise a large portion of our local produce.
Case in point: BUDA. The Bukidnon-Davao road does not only have some of the most sought after instant-break-from-the-city-spots but has since been flocked with delish cafes and restaurants that serve an array of cuisines. Today, BuDa is more than just a plate of hot sikwate and suman. Today, BuDa is a growling tummy’s heaven.
Cafe Binukid is Highway 81’s in-house cafe/restaurant. The cafe boasts of a minimalist interior and a vast al fresco dining complete with the freshest of breeze and the mountains as the backdrop. It has a certain log cabin feels that’s very enticing and invigorating. Highway 81 is located hillside.
Perfect for unplanned road trips or even to spend the night, the restaurant is quaint and has a more subtle approach on flavour and taste. Their menu is laden with Filipino dishes cooked to surprise the palate. From noodles to the ever-staple chicken to the uber satisfying rich broth of Bulalo, nothing escapes your gustatory palate as you take a bite after another.
True, taste is but a preference. For us, the seasoning was more than delightful hence we were able to enjoy the humble feast prepared for us. The bulalo was fork tender and so was their pieces of fried chicken. The fried boneless bangus ala pobre was just so delightful — with or without rice, the dish is perfect. The crisp vegetables were nothing like any other — the pieces were sweet and very delectable. Perfect sahog even for their bihon guisado that my niece and nephews devoured.
Oh and yes, we did have a cup of their freshly brewed coffee (arabica) with sticky rice on the side. Very reminiscent of how we drink coffee back home (Proud Cotabateña!). Not to mention, the owner was very accommodating as she asked her staff to prepare a separate set of utensils for us given their mixed menu.
Will we visit again? Of course, yes.
Cafe Binukid is located at Highway 81, Bukidnon-Davao road, Davao City.
