Craft 1945 is more than just about booze

It is one of Baguio’s old houses built in the 1960s, now beautifully transformed into a Spanish restaurant. Stepping inside feels warm and familiar—like visiting an ancestral home filled with good food and good stories. So, what goes well with craft beer? Read and discover my favorites here! 

Craft 1945 is a home

As Daphne, Marketing/Brand Lead of Craft 1945, puts it: “Our goal is to make guests feel, when they arrive here, that it’s like coming home—only with the added comfort of service.” And honestly, that’s exactly what dining here feels like.

The moment we stepped inside the place (yes, with the Baguio charm), we were welcomed with warm smiles and genuine gestures that led us to our table. In less than 5 minutes, we were offered mini pandesals. This is an example of Filipino hospitality. Aside from it being the standard of some restaurants to offer complimentary appetizers, I was truly reminded by how my late mom hosted unexpected or invited guests inside our home. Offer “pika-pika”–bread included! We used to bake our own pandesals way back, so this alone, I already felt like home. 

Old and New Favorite Dishes

What goes well with craft beer? Let me share with you these; I always have a few staples whenever we dine at Craft 1945—their paella is the best! But this time, I explored more of their menu: the Steak Rice, simple yet flavorful (perfect with my favorite Lengua Salpicao), and the Steak ala Pobre Ribeye—my first time trying it, and it did not disappoint. Pairing it with mashed potatoes? Best idea ever. Of course, Almejas—those cheesy, garlicky clams—are always a must-order for me.

Bonus: They offer complimentary “flight” of the craft beers; meaning, you can try all the flavors of their craft beers, served in small glasses so when you want to order the glass, you would know the flavor you prefer. 

Booze and No Booze

For drinks, I’ve always been a fan of their red sangria, but this time I discovered their pink sangria on tap—smooth, fruity, and refreshing. While there are no more actual diced fruits, in the glass, I found it still fruity and every sip was uninterrupted. 

I also tried one of their new mocktails, the Peach & Blueberry, and I loved it. (No “medicine-like” taste, which I usually dread in fruity drinks!) 

It’s actually a smart move for Craft 1945 to push mocktails now. According to a write-up from F&B Report, the best restaurants in Europe have already embraced the rising demand for booze-free beverages, reflecting a global shift in drinking culture. So why not here in Baguio? While Craft is known for its beers, they’re also adapting—offering options for guests who want the full dining experience without the tipsy aftermath.

Coffee (and more desserts)in Craft 1945? Why not?

And now—coffee! Their café menu is expanding, with renovations underway for a ground-floor café vibe. I ordered the Spanish Latte, sweet like dessert. Speaking of desserts, their Calamansi Pie is by far the best I’ve tried in Baguio—perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy. We also enjoyed the Tres Leches: fluffy sponge cake drenched in milk and topped with light frosting. Surprisingly, a bite of the Calamansi Pie or the Tres Leches went well with the craft beer!  Comfort food done right! 

Pet-friendly restaurant

I appreciate that they also welcomed our pet cat, Mitsui. They even shared a toy for him to play with, but, well, I guess being a cat; he just felt comfy and slept most of the time we dined there. Lol! At least now, this is another place added to our list where we can bring our pet cats. It’s one less thing to worry about!

Overall, as a tita who’s now a bit more health-conscious, I’ll likely tone down the liquor and go for their mocktails, tapas, and new coffee selections. Craft 1945 continues to prove that their “craft” goes beyond beer—it’s about creativity, innovation, and the kind of hospitality that makes you feel at home. 

For more information about the restaurant and for reservations, here are more details:
Visit them at 9 Outlook Drive South, Baguio City, Philippines, 2600. Contact them at 0995 200 5901 or email at craft1945baguio@gmail.com