Top 5 Best Restaurants in Cagayan de Oro

Best Restaurants in Cagayan de Oro

Cagayan de Oro is not only renowned as the rafting capital of the Philippines, but it’s also a hidden gem for food lovers. After an exhilarating adventure through the city’s natural wonders, be sure to indulge in the local culinary scene, where exceptional flavors await. From fresh seafood to traditional Filipino fare with a modern twist, Cagayan de Oro offers a variety of dining experiences to satisfy every palate. Below, we’ve rounded up the top 5 restaurants in CDO that are highly recommended for an unforgettable gastronomic journey.

1. Circa 1850 Restaurant– Circa 1850 is an acclaimed Asian fusion restaurant in Cagayan de Oro, located along Recto Avenue. Known for its creative blend of traditional Asian ingredients and modern culinary techniques, the restaurant offers a diverse menu that appeals to a variety of tastes. Notable dishes include the Scotch Egg Salad, Bistecca Fiorentina, and Brined Pork, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The ambiance combines European-inspired design with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, making it a great spot for both casual meals and special events. With its reasonable pricing, generous portions, and exceptional service, Circa 1850 has become a popular destination for food enthusiasts in the city.

2. Kagay-Anon Restaurant – Kagay-Anon Restaurant is a staple in Cagayan de Oro’s culinary scene, located conveniently within the Limketkai Center near Limketkai Luxe Hotel. Known for its authentic Filipino dishes, the restaurant has built a solid reputation for offering both classic favorites and unique specialties. Standout menu items include flavorful adobong pusit, bangus with garlic and chili, bulalo, pinakbet, and its distinctive ostrich meat offerings—one of the first in the city to serve such dishes, thanks to local sourcing from nearby farms. The restaurant’s warm, culturally inspired ambiance creates an inviting space for both locals and tourists, while generous portions and fair pricing continue to earn it praise. Kagay-Anon remains a go-to destination for those looking to experience the depth and variety of Filipino cuisine in CDO.

3. Redtail Shrimps – Redtail Shrimps & More is a well-loved seafood restaurant in Cagayan de Oro that offers a fun, hands-on dining experience centered around bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Known especially for its signature Redtail Style Shrimps, served with just the right amount of spice, the restaurant invites guests to wear paper bibs and gloves for a mess-free yet interactive feast. The menu extends beyond shrimp, featuring a wide range of seafood including crabs, mussels, and the popular Fisherman’s Catch—each served in sealed plastic bags to preserve their rich, savory sauces. With its casual vibe, multiple branches, and consistently fresh offerings, Redtail Shrimps & More continues to attract both locals and tourists looking for a memorable seafood adventure.

Bestseller: Medium Spicy Redtail Style Shrimps, with creamy seafood chowder on the side. Best to eat during Lunch and Dinner with a price range of 350 – 400 pesos.

4. Sentro 1850, established in 2001, stands as one of the pioneering dining establishments in Cagayan de Oro, known for introducing accessible fine dining to the city. Located at the intersection of Don Apolinar Velez and Toribio Chavez Streets, the restaurant was founded by Chef Eric Yap and Rene Sia. It features a diverse menu that creatively blends Filipino, Asian, and international flavors, with popular dishes like Ima’s Kawali, Bric-A-Brac Back Ribs, and Tenderloin Steak. Sentro 1850 has earned recognition for its culinary quality, including accolades from TripAdvisor. The interior offers a warm yet modern ambiance, making it ideal for casual dining or private events. It also provides function rooms for celebrations and meetings, reinforcing its role as a versatile venue in the local dining scene.

Bestseller: Ima’s Kawali, Bric-A-Brac Back Ribs, Tenderloin Steak, Harvest Salad, Philadelphia Steak Sandwich, Swordfish Balinese, and Chocolate Mirror Cake.

My personal favorite in this restaurant is the Bric-A-Brac Back Ribs. They’re open every day from 10:00 a.m. to 12 midnight. They also have function rooms for small parties, events, birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and the like.

5. Cucina Higala – Cucina Higala, nestled in the heart of Cagayan de Oro City, has become a beloved culinary destination known for elevating traditional Filipino and Mindanaoan heritage dishes. Opened in November 2016 by the TFC Group—the same team behind Monster Kitchen and Thai Me Up—the restaurant’s name is a tribute to friendship and culture, combining “Cucina” (kitchen in Spanish) and “Higala” (friend in Visayan). Housed in a spacious venue along Capistrano Street, it offers a welcoming atmosphere with a seating capacity of 200, making it ideal for gatherings, business meetings, and family occasions. The interior also doubles as a creative space, featuring works from local artists and showcasing the region’s rich cultural identity.

What sets Cucina Higala apart is its curated menu of over 25 heritage dishes that spotlight the diverse culinary traditions of Northern Mindanao. Signature offerings include the savory Surol from Camiguin, the rich Beef Rendang from Lanao del Norte, and crowd favorites like Sinuglaw and Humba. The restaurant continues innovating creations such as the Sizzling Binaki and Sizzling Lamb Kulma, a modern take on the Tausug classic. Beyond its food, Cucina Higala is committed to community empowerment by sourcing ingredients locally and supporting scholars in hospitality education. With accolades from TripAdvisor and a reputation for both authenticity and creativity, Cucina Higala is more than just a restaurant—it’s a celebration of Mindanao’s flavors and stories.

Enjoy your stay in Cagayan de Oro and especially enjoy your food. Try the best foods in Cagayan de Oro not just only the water rafting adventure.