Camiguin may be the second smallest island province in the Philippines in terms of population and land area (next to Batanes), but its modest scale belies the trove of discoveries it holds. Hidden within its 93 square mile perimeter is stunning geography.
There’s an underwater graveyard (a violent volcanic eruption caused the cemetery to sink) marked by a huge cross rising from the water; the ruins of an old Spanish church (one of the oldest in the country); a sandbar that constantly changes its shape due to the current and tide; a waterfall with a 70-meter drop directly into a natural pool; a four-hectare island with a sea turtle sanctuary; and a geothermal spring-fed pool found at the base of an active stratovolcano.
There’s obviously no shortage of places to visit and explore—and even more to uncover when it comes to food. Blessed with fresh seafood and produce nourished by volcanic soil, Camiguin offers the makings of an exceptional market basket. Its residents, in turn, have converted these ingredients into mouthwatering dishes that duly justify the island’s bounty. Among them, the establishments featured on the list.
1. Guerrera
Tucked inside rice paddy villas is this farm-to-table restaurant that serves Asian street food using the over 40 different species of vegetables and herbs growing in their garden. Carmel Almadrones, Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef and owner, rolls out her seasonal menu inspired by the flavors of Malaysian, Vietnamese and Thai cuisines, and makes sure there’s enough options, even for picky eaters and vegetarians. Before ordering, be sure to check their board of daily specials.
What to order: Mieng Kam, Hanoi Pork Chop, Banh Xeo, and Smoked Dal Tadka
2. Saga Cafe
Offering coffee, pastries, hot meals and good vibes is this neighborhood cafe that also doubles as a welcoming temporary shelter from the island heat. You can refresh with their array of beverages ranging from lattes, strawberry milk and teas to horchata, matcha and green apple tonic. On the food front, they carry silogs featuring lechon chorizo, Spam and spicy Italian sausage as well as pancakes and a sandwich slathered with ube jam and melted cheddar.
What to order: Ube Grilled Cheese Sandwich, Banana and Walnut French Toast, Matcha Einspänner
3. Malambo Kitchen
Although not purely catering to vegetarians, their healthier options are the ones drawing in the customers to this restaurant inside a lodge right by the ocean. One of their bestsellers is the Palarong Pambansa Rice Bowl, consisting of garlic rice, sambal, local veggies, chicken adobo flakes, and a hard-boiled egg. But I urge you to try the Coconut Burger where the patty is made of marinated coconut meat doused teriyaki sauce, and paired pineapple salsa. It’s their signature specialty—and with good reason!
What to order: Coconut Burger, Malambo Munchkin, German Rolls Pancakes and Ube Turon
4. La Dolce Vita
This Italian eatery seems to be the most popular in the lot. In fact, it’s the first pit stop of many travelers, given that it’s the most accessible as well, standing right across the airport. Owned by Alessandro, an Italian chef, the restaurant is recognized for pizzas blistered in a firewood-fueled brick oven as well as pastas made from scratch.
What to order: Ravioli, Scoglio, La Dolce Vita Pizza
5. Mama Jita’s
Camiguin produces delicious tables. And it’s all thanks to Julieta Dela Cerna, also known as Manang Jita, whose love for plants and farming led her to become a successful cacao entrepreneur. She has set up a couple of tables inside the premises of her production plant where guests can enjoy her ready-to-drink iced sikwate, which can even be more satisfying when matched with her suman and mangga.
What to order: Sikwate, Tablea
Special thanks to the Philippine Travel Agencies Association.
Frequently Asked Questions
Camiguin is known for fresh seafood, local cacao products, coconut-based dishes, and farm-to-table cooking influenced by the island’s volcanic soil and coastal location.
Popular dining spots in Camiguin include Guerrera, Saga Cafe, Malambo Kitchen, La Dolce Vita, and Mama Jita’s.
La Dolce Vita is known for its handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas located near the Camiguin airport.
Yes. Camiguin offers a growing food scene featuring local ingredients, farm-to-table restaurants, cafes, and international cuisines.
Try sikwate, suman with mangoes, fresh seafood dishes, coconut burgers, and local cacao products.
