Baby Back Ribs at Bigby's and Videoke at Galam

Hmmm… there’s really something extra enjoyable about munching on good food at Bigby’s Cagayan de Oro—especially when it’s free and when you’re dining right next to one of the city’s most adored leaders, now the Vice Mayor of Cagayan de Oro City, Hon. Vicente Emano.

We weren’t actually seated at the same table as Vice Mayor Emano, but being the approachable politician that he is, he still managed to make the night more memorable. After our hearty meal—courtesy of my friend Lawrence who treated us along with Eldie, Elva, and Genevieve—we were surprised with dessert. With our cheery and noisy disposition, we somehow caught the Vice Mayor’s attention. He stood up, walked over, greeted us warmly, and generously gave us slices of chocolate chip cake. Definitely one of those unexpected moments you don’t forget easily.

One thing I always order whenever I eat at Bigby’s is their mouth-watering Rock-a-Bye Baby Back Ribs. For a regular eater like me, one serving already feels like a giant meal—super filling and totally worth it. Add the chocolate chip cake from Vice Mayor Emano, and voilà—the meal felt complete. Of course, I paired it with a Yellow Mango Shake on the side. Although, to be honest, I wouldn’t really recommend Bigby’s mango shake. The best mango shake I’ve tasted in the city is still from Tapsi Time. Whenever I’m craving Filipino comfort food, Tapsi Time is my go-to, with branches along Velez (beside Polymedic Hospital), Divisoria along Pabayo Street, and near Medical Center right in front of the Provincial Capitol grounds.

But of course, dinner isn’t complete without a bit of videoke. After Bigby’s at Rosario Arcade, the five of us hopped into Gen’s pick-up truck and headed to Galam Videoke Entertainment—just a 10-minute drive away. If you want to impress your guests with comfortable videoke rooms, Galam is highly recommended. Spacious rooms, comfy couches, and a cool sound system make the ₱150–₱200 per hour totally worth it.

We sang our hearts out but skipped the beers and hard liquor since we all had to wake up early for work the next day. Still, Galam has everything—from Black Label to wine, champagne, and of course, local favorites like Red Horse, San Miguel, San Mig Light, and even Tanduay rum for those who want to feel the heat.

There you go—just a simple dinner night out with friends. Next plan? An out-of-town trip to Malaybalay. Stay tuned.