Worth every carb: An afternoon at Kiwi's Bread and Pastry Shop in Baguio

Summers in Baguio have a peculiar flavor different from the enduring Manila heat. The warm and sunny morning segued into sudden cold rain. We arrived at Mines View Park flanked by summer storms. 

A blue and white striped deli awning and a brightly colored walkway greeted us. It seemed the perfect type of afternoon for coffee at Kiwi's Bread & Pastry Shop. 

 

The bakery opened its doors just last year, but owners Janet and Darren Wilson seem to have a hit on their hands. The locals have started to take notice. So have the local hotels, which the bakery supplies.  

 

I first heard of Kiwi's Bread & Pastry Shop when a good friend of mine gifted (or cursed) me with a box of their delectable cream puffs (P12 each). The luscious combination of heavy cream and light shortbread lasted about five seconds. Since then, the evil cream puffs and their Rosemary and Olive Oil Focaccia Bread (P85) regularly make appearances at our table. 

 

Kiwi's Bread & Pastry Shop specializes in homestyle artisan bread, but they also have a dine-in menu. They serve sandwiches, pasta, salads and belly-pleasing set breakfasts ranging from P150 to the enormous Kiwi Breakfast (P400) that is good for three. Or a very hungry individual. 

 

Inside, the bakery gave the impression of being sunlit despite the blustery day. The bakery counter was covered with bamboo, with an array of baked goods lined up behind the glass. We went straight up to it to order—then around to explore. It was the middle of the week, but a steady stream of customers trickled in and out. 

 

A beautiful light fixture illuminated two stories of generous spaces filled with carved wooden furniture. Interesting touches, like a striped wall, gave off a fun vibe. The space had a cozy, homey feel, no doubt influenced by the overwhelming smell of rising bread coming from the kitchens. Mixed media paintings by local artist Sam Pinder hung on the walls, adding to the cheerful vibe. 

 

The food arrived quickly. We chose the Columbian Coffee (P85) because it was good for two. The deep dark coffee didn't need any embellishments, only a teaspoon of sugar. It made for the perfect foil against the colder afternoon. 

My companion ordered the Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes (P145). Our initial disappointment at the small portion was dispelled by the flavor of the dish. The fresh basil was a vibrant contrast to the full and meaty taste of the tomatoes. The only thing that detracted from the experience was the heavy hand with the olive oil.  

 

Being in a merienda mood, I went for the BLT (P160) over heavier choices like the Steak and Onion Sandwich (P170). The sandwich was accompanied by a cold carrot and zucchini pickled salad (which kind of stole the show, because pickles are a favorite of mine). 

 

The BLT sat on the table like a zeppelin. I was irrationally pleased by its size. "I like the bread," my companion observed. "You don't have to rip into it." Giant tomatoes, crisp lettuce and crunchy bacon turned the humble BLT into a sinful pleasure. 

 

The friendly and courteous staff recommended a slice of their signature Kiwi Cake to finish off a meal. We also ordered a strawberry muffin (P35) to go with what remained of our coffee. 

Despite its fluffy texture and moist interior, the muffin languished at the corner of the table as we discovered why the cake was a signature dish. Fruity, refreshing and perfectly sweet, the cake had the texture of mousse and left us wanting more. 

 

Kiwi's Bread & Pastry Shop isn't just a place for a wonderful coffee date. They also have a diverse selection of artisan bread for the foodie who can't resist gourmet carbs. Customers can select from glazed cinnamon rolls to simple loafs. Notable items include the Mocha Pan de Sal (P4 each), fruit muffins (P35) and Brioche with Butter (P110).  

 

The health-conscious need not worry about overloading on butter as they also have Multigrain Bread (P110) and Brioche with Olive Oil (P120). 

 

Kiwi's Bread & Pastry Shop is poised to become a Baguio favorite. If you're ever in the mood for a lovely cup of coffee, a freshly baked loaf of bread, or some delicious food, do stop by. All you have to do is spot the kiwi. —KG, GMA News

 

Kiwi's Bread & Pastry Shop is located at 1 Torres Street, Mines View Park, Baguio City. To order, contact 0919-9902043 or 0917-5959936.