THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SIARGAO ISLAND

Needless to say: you simply can’t leave a Philippine islet without having sipped a fresh coconut (or “Buko” as the locals call it). But Siargao has much more on its menu!

If you’ve had enough Pan de Coco, Philippine coconut bread, you should pay Kawayan Gourmand a visit. David, who also manages the beautiful, old-established Kawayan Resort and Restaurant next door, is a trained pâtissier (and gifted chef) and has recently made his long-cherished dream of a French bakery come true. Croissants under palm trees? No problem, just drop by David’s! But speaking of European delights – it’s long been impossible to find a real (meaning no instant) coffee on the island. So we are all the happier Cafe Loka opened a few years ago. Aside from good coffee, the open air café probably serves the best banana bread outside of Hawaii. And a million dollar view on top! Loka is located on the beach, just to the left of Cloud 9. No wonder we are regulars.

Nobody values carbohydrates like the Italians. And no Italian is more valued in Siargao than Gianni! The owner of Kermit Surf Resort and Restaurant serves stone oven pizza, which Condé Nast Traveler Food Magazine considers “the best in the country”. But Gianni’s restaurant isn’t only packed for crispy crusts and juicy toppings, but for good vibes as well. Kermit embodies everything Siargao Island is about: relaxed atmosphere, relaxed people. No wonder that a branch has just opened in bustling Manila!

Though we haven’t made it to Bake Siargao yet, it’s safe to say you shouldn’t miss it. The last time we were on the island, the café was still under construction – and already conspicuous. Owner Rachel Peters, Miss Universe Philippines 2017 (not kidding), is not only pretty to look at, but seems to have a sense for everything pretty as well. Bake Siargao blends scandi chic and tropical loft look and serves cake and pancakes as well as the obligatory “avo toast”. If you do not want to burst out of your Rashguard by the end of your vacay, you should know Shaka Siargao as well: the café right in front of Cloud 9 serves instagrammable bowls and vitamine-loaded juices and shakes. Cheers!