Punchy Palate Gastropub is a standout gastropub in Baguio City, known for blending Cordilleran ingredients, Asian fusion cuisine, and carefully selected international wines. Located along Session Road, overlooking Burnham Park, it has become a favorite spot for locals and visitors looking to experience elevated local food in Baguio.

Perched on the third floor of the Hotel Veniz building, Punchy Palate offers an intimate dining experience that highlights OTOP products, local heritage ingredients, and global pairings, all in one cozy space.

The Story Behind Punchy Palate Gastropub in Baguio

Armed with curiosity (and an appetite), I climbed the spiral staircase beside McDonald’s on Session Road to meet Amilof Samson, the owner and founder of Punchy Palate Gastropub.

Over a refreshing glass of herbal infused Cordillera Mountain Tea, Amilof shared how Punchy Palate’s concept grew from her childhood in Baguio. While her early academic background focused on Intellectual Property, her journey later expanded into Hospitality and Tourism, which she pursued in the United Kingdom.

While studying and working alongside hotels and restaurants in London, Amilof refined a clear vision: to place the intrinsic flavors of the Cordilleras at the center of modern Asian fusion cuisine, while pairing them with international wines rarely seen in Baguio at the time. That vision eventually became Punchy Palate Gastropub.

Cordilleran Ingredients and International Wine Pairings

Punchy Palate’s menu reflects this philosophy of plating local alongside global.

The bar serves flavored beers and imported wines, including South African Zinfandels, alongside locally produced Bugnay wine. One of the standout offerings is their house-made tapuey, the traditional Cordilleran fermented rice wine.

They produce two tapuey varieties:

• Red tapuey, made using black heirloom rice

• White tapuey, made from traditional Cordilleran heirloom rice

Tapuey also features prominently in the menu, appearing in dishes such as tapuey ice cream, tapuey coffee and as a key ingredient in the sauce for their Watwat Steak.

Local Adaptations in Baguio’s Evolving Food Scene

Amilof noted that while many restaurants in Baguio are moving toward the upper market, diners are increasingly looking for diversity; flavors inspired by Asia, Europe, and home. This demand continues to drive innovation across the city’s culinary scene.

At Punchy Palate Gastropub, this takes the form of thoughtful local adaptations, such as using etag alongside pork in their adobo, or featuring wines from local molecular gastronomist Bo Yo. His Kining wine is a must try, best enjoyed after a meal with a group friends.

Supporting Local OTOP Producers in Baguio

To showcase Cordilleran products and introduce them to new audiences, Amilof hosted a series of wine tasting nights in 2025. These events brought together adventurous locals and highlighted OTOP producers from the region, reinforcing Punchy Palate’s role as a supporter of local food culture in Baguio City.

Why Punchy Palate Is a Go To Gastropub on Session Road

Punchy Palate Gastropub also holds a special place for the Alam Mo Ba Baguio team, as it hosted the official launch celebration of the site. With its central location, happy hour offerings, and warm, welcoming atmosphere, it’s an ideal venue for team gatherings, celebrations, or relaxed evenings in the city.

After a pandemic forced delay, Punchy Palate first opened along Military Cut Off in 2023 before moving to its current home on Session Road, where it continues to grow its following.

Visit Punchy Palate Gastropub in Baguio City

Punchy Palate Gastropub
3rd Floor, Hotel Veniz, Session Road, Baguio City
Open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM

If you’re looking for a gastropub in Baguio that celebrates Cordilleran flavors while embracing global influences, Punchy Palate is well worth the visit.

About the Author

Josh is a transplant to Baguio City who enjoys exploring every ingredient in the city’s ever evolving culinary melting pot.