Cagayan de Oro Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Cagayan de Oro. Your complete guide to dining in Cagayan de Oro.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Cagayan de Oro! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Cagayan de Oro has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Cagayan de Oro's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Cagayan de Oro like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Cagayan de Oro offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Cagayan de Oro.
Cucina Higala
Highly rated Restaurant in Cagayan De Oro with 4.7 stars from 2314 reviews.
📍 FJJV+PC4, 222 Capistrano St, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Ribs & Bibs Centrio Branch
Highly rated Restaurant in Cagayan De Oro with 4.9 stars from 870 reviews.
📍 Capt. Vicente Roa St, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Circa 1850
Highly rated Restaurant in Cagayan De Oro with 4.5 stars from 542 reviews.
📍 890 Recto Ave, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Bigby's Cafe and Restaurant SM CDO Downtown
Highly rated Restaurant in Cagayan De Oro with 4.8 stars from 665 reviews.
📍 4th level, SM CDO Downtown, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Yoshimeatsu Ayala Centrio - CDO
Highly rated Japanese in Cagayan De Oro with 4.7 stars from 1059 reviews.
📍 Capt. Vicente Roa St, Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine
Fat Chef Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Cagayan De Oro with 4.6 stars from 421 reviews.
📍 Gen A. Luna St, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Cuesta Roccia
Highly rated Restaurant in Cagayan De Oro with 4.6 stars from 133 reviews.
📍 Road going to Abbas Orchard Farm Campus, Sitio S Diversion Rd, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Ribs & Bibs SM CDO Downtown
Highly rated Restaurant in Cagayan De Oro with 4.9 stars from 908 reviews.
📍 Level 5, SM Downtown Premiere, Osmena street, corner Claro M. Recto Ave, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sentro 1850
Highly rated Restaurant in Cagayan De Oro with 4.4 stars from 375 reviews.
📍 FJGV+MHM, Don Apolinar Velez St, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
High Ridge
Highly rated Restaurant in Cagayan De Oro with 4.3 stars from 1219 reviews.
📍 FJ7X+247, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Redtail Shrimps & More
Highly rated Seafood in Cagayan De Oro with 4.5 stars from 1357 reviews.
📍 FMM4+69R, Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Seafood cuisine
Tong Yang, SM CDO Downtown
Highly rated Japanese in Cagayan De Oro with 4.9 stars from 3417 reviews.
📍 3rd level, SM Downtown Premier, Claro M. Recto avenue, corner Osmena St, Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Cagayan de Oro.
Cogon Public Market
Highly rated International in Cagayan De Oro with 3.8 stars from 6207 reviews.
📍 FMG2+WJM, Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Cogon Night Market
Highly rated International in Cagayan De Oro with 4.2 stars from 22 reviews.
📍 FMG2+GHH, Lt. Guillermo St, Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Carmen Public Market
Highly rated International in Cagayan De Oro with 3.7 stars from 1256 reviews.
📍 V Castro St, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Marketplace CDO
Highly rated International in Cagayan De Oro with 4.2 stars from 97 reviews.
📍 Level 1, Claro M. Recto Ave, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Puerto Public Market
Highly rated International in Cagayan De Oro with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 FQX2+P66, Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Farmers’ Market CDO
Highly rated International in Cagayan De Oro with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 190 V. Neri St, Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Market City
Highly rated International in Cagayan De Oro with 4 stars from 116 reviews.
📍 Gaabucayan St, Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Bulua Fish Landing
Highly rated International in Cagayan De Oro with 4 stars from 187 reviews.
📍 GJ7C+3VV, Opol - Bulua Bus Station Diversion Road, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Cagayan de Oro.
Belize Food Tours (meeting spot)
Highly rated International in Cagayan De Oro with 5 stars from 98 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cucina Higala
Highly rated Restaurant in Cagayan De Oro with 4.7 stars from 2314 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Rakso Air Travel & Tours, Inc. Cagayan de Oro Branch
Highly rated International in Cagayan De Oro with 5 stars from 26 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cogon Public Market
Highly rated International in Cagayan De Oro with 3.8 stars from 6207 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Great White Water Tours
Highly rated International in Cagayan De Oro with 4.7 stars from 75 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
High Ridge
Highly rated Restaurant in Cagayan De Oro with 4.3 stars from 1219 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Cagayan de Oro.
Bowerbird Coffee Ph
Highly rated Cafe in Cagayan De Oro with 4.9 stars from 141 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 62 Justo Ramonal St, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Paradigm Coffee & Cocktail
Highly rated Cafe in Cagayan De Oro with 4.9 stars from 312 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Brgy, 74 2nd St, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Calle 85 Coffee House
Highly rated Cafe in Cagayan De Oro with 4.7 stars from 100 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Don Apolinar Velez Avenue, Apovel Subdivision Main Entrance, corner Dona Leona Velez St, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
H Proper Coffee Roasters - Uptown
Highly rated Cafe in Cagayan De Oro with 4.6 stars from 424 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Masterson Ave, Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Coffee Project CDO
Highly rated Cafe in Cagayan De Oro with 4.4 stars from 518 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Coffee Project, All Home Building, Limketkai Dr, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Elyseé Café
Highly rated Cafe in Cagayan De Oro with 4.5 stars from 171 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 The Malasag House, Malasag, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Una Mela - Uptown
Highly rated Cafe in Cagayan De Oro with 4.8 stars from 102 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Masterson's Avenue Upper, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Sunnyside Coffee and Roastery
Highly rated Cafe in Cagayan De Oro with 4.9 stars from 69 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Corner of 11th, 30th St, Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Cagayan de Oro.
Signature Dish
A must-try Cagayan de Oro specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Cagayan de Oro dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Cagayan de Oro with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Cagayan de Oro specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Cagayan de Oro creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Cagayan de Oro classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Cagayan de Oro specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Cagayan de Oro dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Cagayan de Oro with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Cagayan de Oro specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Cagayan de Oro.
The Oak Room
Highly rated Bar in Cagayan De Oro with 4.5 stars from 79 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Gateway Park, Limketkai Dr, Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Hugo Skye Lounge
Highly rated Cafe in Cagayan De Oro with 4.3 stars from 832 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 CMF4+8JW, Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Superstar KTV Lounge and Club
Highly rated Bar in Cagayan De Oro with 4.5 stars from 47 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Cagayan Town Center, Capt. Vicente Roa Street, Corner Gen A. Luna St, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Downtown Lounge CDO
Highly rated Bar in Cagayan De Oro with 4.4 stars from 42 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Tomas Saco St, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Gerry's Ayala Centrio CDO (Gerry's Grill)
Highly rated Bar in Cagayan De Oro with 4.8 stars from 1863 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 2/F Florentino St, Cagayan De Oro City, 9000 Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
The Cave Karaoke & Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Cagayan De Oro with 4.3 stars from 110 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 FJJX+XF9, Corrales Ave, Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Cagayan de Oro's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Cagayan de Oro vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cagayan de Oro is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Cagayan de Oro offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Cagayan de Oro specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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