Resto Review: Azotea Greens

Article originally published in TheYoungFlaneur.com on September 2013.

During hot summer days, theres no other place Id rather be than Baguio City.

Perched within a mountain range with an altitude of about 5000 feet above sea level, the countrys summer capital is well-known for its chilly climate. But aside from the Baguio breeze, the city is also known for its fresh produce. And by fresh, Im talking about the crunchiest vegetables and the juiciest fruits not just their strawberries.

So when our Baguio local friends suggested we try Azotea Greens, a vegetarian restaurant in the city, I didnt even think twice about going.

Location and Atmosphere

Azotea Greens is conveniently located at the lower terrace of the La Azotea building along Session Road, which makes accessibility no issue at all. Upon entering the cafe, you'll immediately notice the paintings on the wall, which blends nicely with the whole interior setup. The general atmosphere was relaxing, which makes it a perfect hangout place to meet with friends, or to simply be alone and enjoy a good book.

I also like how we were immediately greeted by their accommodating staff despite the restaurant being fairly busy that night. They were also patient with us and didnt hesitate in helping us with our every request.

Soothing music is also being played in the background to fade out conversations. In fact, the place was so serene that I had to keep reminding myself that the building was located in busy Session Road.

The only downside I found was that the comfort rooms were shared with three other establishments in the same building. But it was kept clean and theres enough cubicles so as to avoid long queues, so it wasnt a total letdown.

Location and Atmosphere Rating: 8/10

Food

Considering that this was my first time to try a vegetarian meal, I wanted to stay as safe as possible, so I went with their grilled sandwich which I paired with their best-selling lemon grass tea.

Azotea Greens gives you the option to try their best-selling tea in hot and cold variants, but due to the horrible weather outside, I went with the hot drink. Lemon grass tea promises relaxing effects, and though I didn't feel my mood change while we were there, I think it accounted for my very soothing sleep that night.

Now on to my meal: I like how the flavors blended nicely. In fact, I was trying to think of a "meat counterpart", but couldn't really point to just one flavor -- I guess it's its own flavor. I also like how the bread had just the right kind of crunch that I like on my grilled sandwiches. However, I wasn't really used to the texture of the stuffing, so it took me quite some time to finish what I ordered. The potato chips, on the other hand, were divine.

Overall, I like them both individually. Together, I didn't feel that my hot drink was the best partner for my sandwich so if you want to try the same thing, try the cold variant. ;)

Food Rating: 7.5/10

Budget: 150-250 pesos per meal

Verdict

I like Azotea Greens. It has this homey feel that makes me just want to kick my shoes off, grab a book, and just sink into the couch while drinking tea.

So when you drop by Baguio City, and the hustle and bustle of Session Road gets you down, know that there is a peaceful sanctuary in the middle of it all Azotea Greens.

Overall Restaurant Verdict: 8/10