14 Must-Try Restaurants in Butuan City

Butuan City is an interesting place in Mindanao. Besides its special attractions and history, the city also has many local restaurants where visitors, both local and foreign, can enjoy a great meal to enhance their experience.

***Building design of Ocean Bounties Seafood Restaurant.***

These restaurants in Butuan City have their own unique dishes and offerings to serve their guests in the best way possible. I actually have experienced trying the food from some of these restaurants, and they truly are worth it!

Here’s a list of restaurants in Butuan City with details to help you choose which one to choose or to go first during your journey. I’ve also included some personal tips to enhance your dining experience at these restaurants!

Best For Families: Red Apple Fastfood & Restaurant
Best For Couple: CHA’AH by Juyen’s
Best For Groups: Verity Restaurant

Top 14 Restaurants in Butuan City

1. VJ’s Sports Bar & Ihaw-Ihaw 🍴

📌 Location: Km. 2, J. C. Aquino Avenue,, Butuan City, Philippines
⏳ Hours: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm

VJ’s Sports Bar & Ihaw-Ihaw is one of the best go-to places when it comes to seafood and grill in Butuan City.

If you’re into seafood and grilled dishes, this place offers all Filipino-style seafood and grilled food which is made from the freshest meat.

Their menu includes various Filipino grilled meats, kinilaw, and tinola. Also, don’t forget to try their delicious African hitos.

When you order this dish, you’ll be surprised to have the option to choose the live African hito you like directly from their aquariums, and they’ll grill it for you.

Beyond the best food they serve, this restaurant in Butuan City is also the best destination for intimate parties, with all their private rooms and a convention area that is perfect for private gatherings.

2. Baron’s 🍴

📌 Location: Purok 2, Brgy. 27, Bayanihan, J C Aquino Ave, Butuan City, 8600 Agusan Del Norte
⏳ Hours: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm

Baron’s is an incredibly popular seafood restaurant in Butuan City. This is my personal favorite!

They are known for serving the finest and freshest kinilaw, sinugba, tinola, and calamares in town, not to mention many of the Filipino-style dishes available on their menu.

Among the best food they offer are their sweet and sour chicken, pancit, chop suey, fish soups, sinigang and a variety of desserts like ice creams and halo-halo.

But I really like how the way they make their kinilaw here. I promise you won’t regret it!

If you’re in Butuan City, you shouldn’t miss this place. The restaurant has two adjacent venues – the first one is an air-conditioned space suitable for formal dining.

However, I recommend dining in the other venue to experience eating in a semi-outdoor experience, just like a typical Butuanon.

This place also offers popular Filipino beer and has exclusive dining areas available which you can rent per hour. I went here along with some friends, and the area was great for hanging out!

3. Rosario’s Chinese Seafood and Restaurant 🍴

📌 Location: Butuan City Hall, Jose Rosales Ave, Butuan City, 8600 Agusan Del Norte
⏳ Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm | 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm

This locally-owned Chinese restaurant in Butuan City is a premium dining spot that is frequently visited by tourists.

It’s an ideal destination for fine dining, with its minimalist interiors that create a soothing atmosphere.

Rosario’s features an extensive menu with lots of Filipino and Chinese favorite food. Their top-selling dishes are their Chinese-style whole fried chicken, beef with broccoli, and calamares.

They provide desserts such as fruit shakes and pastries. Their staff are very approachable and friendly too.

I recommend trying their Chinese-style whole-fried chicken. I’ve been to this restaurant twice, and I ordered it both times.

4. Tita’s Cafe 🍴

📌 Locations: WGVF+F8W, J C Aquino Ave, Butuan City, 8600 Agusan Del Norte
⏳ Opening Hours: 24 hours

Tita’s Cafe is a beloved classic restaurant in Butuan, cherished by locals for generations.

They are famous for their lomi (noodles with egg and chicken liver) and tasty siopaos, among other delicious options.

You can find them in two locations: one in the city centre and another on JC Aquino Avenue.

It’s also a go-to place for tourists because it’s founded and owned by a local, and you won’t find any other Tita’s Cafe in the Philippines except in Butuan.

In fact, Tita’s Cafe is my grandmother’s favourite, especially their siopao! Well, I can’t blame her, it’s savoury and delicious!

5. Tuna Republik 🍴

📌 Location: WGWM+J63, J C Aquino Ave, Butuan City, Agusan Del Norte
⏳ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Entrance of Tuna Republic - Restaurants In Butuan City

Tuna Republik is another highly-visited restaurant in Butuan City. When it comes to tuna dishes, they not only have a long list but also offer different flavour options to satisfy your preferences.

Their famous dishes include grilled tuna panga (grilled tuna jaw), kinilaw (Filipino ceviche), and tinola (Filipino tuna soup), all served at affordable prices and made with fresh ingredients.

The restaurant isn’t just about tuna, despite its name. They also offer Filipino dishes like chicken pancit guisado and the popular special halo-halo, which is perfect for hot days.

The place incorporates traditional Filipino materials in its walls and fixtures, which are a perfect complement to the type of food they offer.

Tuna Republik has branches serving numerous cities and towns across the Philippines, including one in Butuan located at J.C. Aquino Avenue, just across from SM City Butuan.

6. Ocean Bounties Seafood Restaurant 🍴

📌 Location: J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan City
⏳ Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Entrance of Ocean Bounties Seafood - Restaurants In Butuan City

Ocean Bouties Seafood Restaurant is located near the city hall and prides itself on the best seafood dining experience in Butuan.

They offer a menu of locally-sourced seafood dishes such as crispy squid calamares, buttered garlic crab, and various types of fish and prawn recipes!

Their place features a very calming ambience that makes visitors feel relaxed and comfortable while waiting for their fresh orders to be cooked and prepared.

📢 Update: This restaurant is temporarily closed. In the meantime you may go to Oceanland Seafood + Cafe for your seafood cravings

7. Lime and Zest Kitchen 🍴

📌 Location: WATERGATE HOTEL, Jose Rosales Ave, Butuan City, Agusan Del Norte
⏳ Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM

Lime and Zest Kitchen is a newly opened restaurant in Butuan City. They have a variety of foods from around the world that you’ll love.

Don’t miss their famous sushi boat and sizzling pork steak. For dessert, try their tasty French vanilla crème brûlée and homemade shaved ice cream.

The restaurant uses freshly harvested ingredients to prepare delicious dishes, particularly their famous chicken recipes like Buttered Chicken, Yakitori Chicken, Chicken Teriyaki, Chicken Ala King, Chicken Parmesan, Honey Glazed Fried Chicken, and Buffalo Chicken Wings.

You can find it among the shops and restaurants at the Watergate Center.

8. CHA’AH by Juyen’s 🍴

📌 Location: RC Intino Building 2, North Montilla Boulevard, Butuan City, Philippines
⏳ Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

What started as a milk and fruit tea shop is now listed as one of the best restaurants in Butuan City because of the food they offer.

They became popular in the city due to their Thai spoon offerings, particularly their chicken and beef panang curry rice meals, which have pork-free options, and pasta dishes like their supreme carbonara.

Besides the food, CHA’AH by Juyen’s is also well-known for its dining setting.

They have many outdoor dining areas, usually featuring charming Filipino nipa huts with beautiful lighting for evening dining.

This restaurant is perfect for those looking to relax after a trip or for couples seeking an intimate date spot in Butuan, thanks to its location in a quiet neighbourhood.

It’s my fiance’s favourite place, and it has become mine too! We usually order their milk tea and some Thai rice bowl dishes!

9. Margie’s Kitchen 🍴

📌 Location: J.C. Aquino Avenue, Butuan City
⏳ Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Margie’s Kitchen is a perfect example of success.

Before becoming the famous dining place in Butuan City, it initially served locals and visitors with homemade cakes and pastries, which are now available at Margie’s Bakeshop + Cafe located right next to the restaurant – a visit there is indeed worth it.

Over time, they expanded their menu to include various Asian cuisine options like Thai bagoong fried rice, bibimbap rice, Hungarian sausage, and more.

This is when Margie’s Kitchen began. Presently, they also offer a variety of desserts, fresh fruit shakes, hot chocolate, coffee, and different kinds of Filipino dishes like silogs and sisig.

I personally like their Vietnamese-inspired curry and Korean fried chicken!

It is owned by Margie Calo, a local in Butuan, so I could say that trying their food is definitely a must to experience the kind of food the city has to offer.

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10. Weegool’s Garden 🍴

📌 Locations: North Montilla Boulevard, Butuan City | Doongan Road, Butuan City
⏳ Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM

This restaurant in Butuan City has two branches, serving the all-time favourite Chicken Inasal (Filipino grilled chicken), along with other delicious dishes like pork sisig and a variety of barbecues.

You also don’t want to miss their best-seller halo-halo served in a buko (coconut) shell after enjoying your delicious meal. It’s my go-to dessert after eating Chicken Inasal!

It’s a locally-owned restaurant that has held a special place in the hearts of Butuanons for more than a decade.

What’s wonderful about Weegol’s Garden is its semi-outdoor setting with classic furniture. They have ponds filled with colorful koi fish swimming around.

Most nights, they feature a local acoustic band to serenade you while you dine.

11. Red Apple Fastfood & Restaurant 🍴

📌 Location: 275 A.D. Curato Street, Butuan City
⏳ Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Red Apple Fastfood & Restaurant offers a menu with a variety of delicious traditional family dishes, baked goods, and sweets. They are also a popular choice for catering special occasions.

This Butuan restaurant serves Filipino staple dishes like chicken inasal, pork humba, kare-kare, sinigang, and many more.

They also have a selection of desserts and pastries to choose from.

While it may not be as popular as it was decades ago, it remains strong and open to serve both locals and visitors.

It’s a must-try if you want to truly enjoy Butuan’s comfort food.

12. Kaon Resto Grill 🍴

📌 Location: 198 JC Aquino Avenue (beside Robinsons Mall) 8600 Butuan City
⏳ Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM | 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM

“Kaon” is a Visayan term used across the provinces of Visayas and Mindanao to mean “eat.” However, there’s something intriguing about this restaurant in Butuan City.

Kaon Resto Grill features a menu of food offerings with quirky and amusing names, such as “Pang-pabata” (meaning to make you younger), “Pangpataas-kinabuhi” (to prolong your life), and even “Pangpa-high blood” (to raise blood pressure), to mention a few.

Their dishes range from healthy options like Filipino-style vegetable recipes such as the popular Tagalog dish Pinakbet, chop-suey, and fresh salads to their mouthwatering grilled chicken and pork recipes.

13. IAM’s Kitchen + Bar 🍴

📌 Location: Second Floor SM City Butuan 8600 Butuan City
⏳ Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

IAM’s Kitchen + Bar is a recently opened luxury-ish establishment offering a unique menu of delicious food and drinks.

This restaurant and bar is situated on the 2nd floor of SM City Butuan, a very convenient location for fine dining. It features industrial-style interiors and fixtures, which create a blend of a relaxed and premium ambience.

On their menu, you’ll find a variety of chicken, beef, and seafood dishes from different cuisines.

There are plenty of food options here, that’s why it’s a go-to place for famous people in the Philippines and Butuan City.

They also serve delicious snacks and offer various cocktails, mocktails, and beers.

I visited the restaurant on its opening day and tried its seafood platter along with a chicken and eggplant dish. I finished my meal with their refreshing avocado shakes!

IAM’s Kitchen + Bar is a local restaurant, along with the favourite pizza spot IAM’s Crispy Crust Pizza (my favourite pizza parlour!); and the home for special bread and treats, IAM’s Specialty Bread.

14. Verity Restaurant 🍴

📌 Location: Ground Floor, SM City, J.C. Aquino Avenue, Butuan City
⏳ Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Verity Restaurant in Butuan City is truly a family-friendly establishment. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the comfortable vibe and classic furnishings that make customers feel right at home.

The restaurant has been open for several years and has become the perfect spot for families and groups to enjoy the best dining experience.

They offer a wide range of food options, including American, European, Asian, and, of course, Filipino choices. What stands out are their Crispy Pata (deep-fried pork trotters) and Wagyu Steaks.

I haven’t eaten here, but I’m looking forward to trying their steaks and pasta plates!

Frequently Asked Questions: Top Restaurants in Butuan City

One of the famous dishes in Butuan City and the broader Caraga region is the “Nilarang na Isda.” It’s a sour fish soup made with fish, usually, grouper or tilapia, cooked in a sour broth typically flavored with tamarind or other souring agents. This dish is a local favorite.

In the Caraga region, people love “Budbud,” a sticky rice cake wrapped in banana leaves, often served with hot chocolate.

Some unique foods in Caraga include “balut” (duck embryo), “kinilaw na tamilok” (woodworm ceviche), and various dishes made from snails, crabs, and fish.

In Mindanao, people enjoy dishes like “sinuglaw” (grilled pork and kinilaw), “tinolang isda” (fish soup with veggies), “piyanggang manok” (chicken cooked with coconut milk and turmeric), and foods made with durian, a famous fruit in Davao City. There’s also tasty Muslim-influenced food like “biriyani” and unique “adobo” variations.

Final Thoughts: Top Restaurants in Butuan City

Exploring Butuan City’s local restaurants is a unique experience that complements your visit to its tourist attractions.

When you vacation in this historic city, be sure to sample some of the restaurants mentioned above. It will enhance your memorable experience while getting to know Butuan better.

What do you think of these restaurants? Have you already decided which one to try first when you visit Butuan City? Let us know!

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About the Author

Hello there! I’m Mitch, the main writer of Philippine Hidden Gems! I’m a random Filipino who’s already explored many parts of the Philippines, especially the regions of Central Visayas, Northern Mindanao, and Caraga, where I was born and raised.

Apart from my goal to find more hidden gems in my country and share my discoveries with you, I also enjoy reading and writing, discovering new food, and coffee!

Join me as I show you the beauty of my homeland and why the Philippines should be your next destination!