A FOOD lover went to Baguio and of course, did not fail to dine in one of the city?s ?institutions?, Star Café. One also discovered a small dining area in a Coffee House in Serendra, and still another at the Global City, relished international cuisine which went with the perfect ambiance.

Aubergine Restaurant-Patisserie

Aubergine Restaurant-Patisserie at 32nd and 5th Bldg., 5th Avenue cor 32nd Street, Fort Bonifacio (tel. no. 856-9888). It?s a new entrant in the fine-dining arena, which has already garnered quite a big following. The track record of its owners has preceded the establishment of this place, thus the confidence they enjoy. People might find it difficult to locate the entrance; it is through the stairs and escalator, between McDo and a Chinese restaurant.

Dining area. The evening lights lend enough drama to the place. The color scheme is black and red. The bar is set against the backdrop of a glass-encased wine ?cellar?. The area is divided into sections; the main having a huge round table with a hole at the center, duplicating the building?s main structure at the entrance.

The kitchen is ?walled? in glass, giving a full view of what culinary magic is executed by the chefs. Perhaps they should install a sound-proofing system to control the noise. It?s hard to carry on a conversation.

The staff. There is enough to attend to a full house. They are garbed in black and white. A lady attendant leads guests to their tables and the waiters take over quickly. When heading for the loo, lady guests are led by a head waiter to the end of the hall.

Service. A big black board is hoisted at every table, briefly. It has the evening?s set menu (two choices) at P1,300 and P1,600 plus taxes per person. Orders are taken and food comes within a time that affords the diners to have a bit of tête-a-tête among themselves before getting into their meals.

Suggested meal. Outside of the set menu, there are many choices. Light eaters that we were, one settled for two appetizers, another for the US Game Cornish hen on a bed of Spinach (P680) and the remaining two had the Pesto-Crusted Lapu-lapu (P680) which got our collected nod. Desserts were tempting, which none of us passed up.

Usual charges are collected.

Rating **

Isla Coffee

Isla Coffee store-cum-dining place at ground floor of Serendra, facing Market!Market! at The Fort (tel. no. 901-3485). It sells a good variety of Philippine coffee. To satiate hunger and thirst, small tables and chairs are set for snacks and light meals.

Dining area. As mentioned, this is within the store. About six tables are available to diners, each can accommodate three to four.

The staff. There is one young lady who does an efficient job of preparing drinks, salads and sandwiches.

Service. Charming.

Suggested meal. Roast Chicken Salad with Honey and Mustard dressing using very fresh greens. A pocket (actually pressed bread with filling) of Ham served with Mini green salad. Coffee, of course, must punctuate the light meal (P420).

Seniors get discounts.

Rating **

Star Café

Star Cafe at Session Road, Baguio City, (mobile no. 0917-791-3943). This is one of the Pine City?s landmarks which has existed for decades. It?s still managed by the siblings of its original owners and managers, couple Joey and Donna Go. A home for no-fuss Chinese food, Egg Pie and newly-baked breads, which are so popular. If one is not quick, there?d be nothing left for him or her.

Dining area. As one enters, you?ll see a display of breads. The last time this foodie was there, the wait for a bread order took 30 minutes. The place looks ordinary, but is clean and comfortable.

The Staff. Their decorum is beyond complaint.

Service. Efficient.

Suggested meal. A lot that has actually disappeared from the menu cards of some modern-day eateries are served here. But the mainstays are Pancit Canton, Ho To Tay Soup, Sweet-Sour Pork, Lumpiang Shanghai and Yang Chow Fried Rice. Indulge, cost won?t make a big dent in your pocket.

Usual charges are added to your bill.

Rating***