Chef’s Home: A Taste of Asia

Owned by the very nice and warm couple Chef Alvin and Gina Emuang, Chef’s Home is by far our favorite restaurant in Baguio. A bite of their food and I am transported to another part of Asia. I am fond of Thailand and have never been to Malaysia, but the fusion of Thai and Malaysian cuisine makes me forget the Philippines for a while.

Others may find it a bit expensive but for me it’s worth every penny. I do not mind the humble ambiance because the food is great. Servings are for sharing. Locals and foreigners that we have brought there loved it. Not your normal everyday food but should be visited regularly – let’s say once or twice a month.

Here are our staples:

Crispy Papaya Salad

Crispy Papaya Salad. A plate of crunchy, tangy goodness. A great appetizer to start your meal.

Nasi Goreng

Nasi Goreng. Malaysian fried rice with everything on it. It can stand on its own, without the other dishes. But it’s also great paired with their viands.

Beef Murtabak

Beef Murtabak. This is ground beef with potatoes wrapped in roti. You must eat this with the pickled onions – it complements it perfectly.

Pickled Onions

Pickled onions. Usually a side for the other dishes but can serve as an appetizer as well. They also sell other pickled items such as chili and cucumber in jars.

Black Peppered Squid

Black Peppered Squid. My favorite! I tried learning how to make this but so far have not succeeded. Lol. The squid is perfectly cooked and the sauce is just divine.

Beef Rendang. TP’s favorite. It is beef slow-cooked in coconut milk and spices. (no photo)

Chicken with Dried Chili

Chicken with Dried Chili. It was the first time we tried it and it was delicious, a revelation!

Roti Chef's Home

Roti Chef’s Home. You will think that you are full from what you just ate but order this dessert anyway. It is a totally different experience, it will cleanse your palate. A serving can feed 3-4 people. Best if everyone eats from the serving plate ala Pinoy style. Food just tastes better when you’re sharing or with competition ;).

During Valentines Day, they offer candlelight set dinner for couples. You get to be serenaded by Gina who is a wonderful singer. One time when we celebrated TP’s birthday dinner, Gina sang Happy Birthday while bringing the Roti dessert. Her voice was enchanting.

Chef’s Home is located along Outlook Drive. You may find it full during weekends and peak seasons so make sure to reserve. Do come on time to avoid being bumped off. 

Contact Gina Emuang at +63916 4445756 for reservations, or you can visit their Facebook site.