In the stillness of early Baguio mornings, before the streets stir and the scent of pine cuts through the cold air, there’s a man who wakes before the sun—not to chase it, but to light a fire. It was not an easy start for Edmark Bustos to build the Amare pizza brand from scratch.
Edmark Bustos, the founder of Amare La Cucina, kneels in front of his handmade brick oven, tucked in the backyard of his grandmother’s home. This is where it all began—where one of the most iconic destinations for wood-fired pizza in Baguio was born. Ash on his sleeves, kindling in hand, he fans a flickering spark into a steady blaze. It’s more than ritual—it’s remembrance.
“I’ve learned that the best results come from enduring the heat and trusting the process,” Edmark says. “Parang buhay—minsan kailangan mong dumaan sa apoy para tumibay.”
From Nurse to Neighborhood Pizzaiolo
Before Amare La Cucina became one of the most loved family-run restaurants in Baguio, it was just a backyard dream held together by grit, reclaimed wood, and YouTube tutorials. A former nurse with no formal culinary training, Edmark returned to the Philippines from abroad with nothing more than savings, a vision, and a self-built brick oven.
He and his wife, Nica, were the entire team.
“Ako ang taga-palengke, tagasindi ng pugon, tagaluto. Siya ang kahera, server, at taga-gawa ng drinks,” he says. “Walang day off. For 2.5 years, halos walang pahinga.”
But it was never just about pizza. It was about creating connection—something Edmark, now a standout Filipino food entrepreneur, recognized early on. He saw how children lit up when invited to help toss dough. So he let them. That simple gesture became a signature experience and helped turn Amare into a family favorite for locals and tourists alike.
Lessons From the First Flame
He still recalls that first successful pizza: the crackle of wood, the scent of burning oak, blistered crust, molten cheese, steam rising like a prayer.
“I had burns on my hands, smoke in my eyes, and doubts in my heart. But when that first pizza came out—perfectly cooked—I felt a deep sense of accomplishment.”
“That oven taught me patience, precision, humility,” he adds. “You don’t control fire. You work with it. You respect it.”
These are the lessons that fuel every pie that comes out of Amare La Cucina’s signature wood-fired oven.
A Business With Soul, Not Just Scale
That fire-forged philosophy flows into everything Edmark does—from the way he leads his team to how he sources ingredients. In 2024, when a bulk tomato order to Benguet farmers was abruptly canceled, Edmark stepped in and bought all 600 kilos, transforming them into a limited-edition Cherry Tomato Series of pizzas.
“Every ingredient has a journey,” he says. “Our job is to honor it.”
This commitment to locally sourced ingredients reflects the values that have made Amare La Cucina one of the top artisan pizza restaurants in Baguio—deeply rooted in community and flavor.
Franchising, Edmark says, was never on the table.
“I wanted growth with soul. Every Amare branch carries my story, our story. Hindi siya basta negosyo lang—it’s personal.”
Each expansion, from Baguio to Manila, keeps the spirit of the original oven alive—proof that growth doesn’t have to mean losing authenticity.
Leading With Heat and Heart
In the kitchen, Edmark leads the same way he cooks: with rhythm, intuition, and deep faith in people.
One hectic dinner service, a young cook looked up from the oven and said, “Kaya natin ‘to, boss.” That moment reminded Edmark of the kind of culture he wanted to cultivate.
“Leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice. It’s about creating a space where people believe in each other—even in the heat.”
This approach has turned Amare La Cucina into not just a restaurant, but a culinary home—for its staff and its loyal guests.
A Legacy Baked Into Every Dish
Despite his success, Edmark hasn’t forgotten the sacrifices.
“I’ve missed birthdays, anniversaries, quiet Sunday mornings. Naalala ko pa yung birthday ng tatay ko—nasa kusina ako, balot ng harina at pawis, habang sila nagdiriwang sa bahay.”
But he says it with conviction—not regret.
“Lahat ng sakripisyong ‘to, para sa kanila—para sa legacy na maipagmamalaki nila.”
Every morning, before the world wakes, Edmark walks to his oven. He places a hand on the warm brick and listens to the wind. It’s a ritual of purpose. Of presence. “Every flame has a story,” he says. “And every story, if you give it enough fire, can feed the soul.”
Visit Amare La Cucina
Amare La Cucina is known for its handcrafted, wood-fired pizzas made with love, local ingredients, and a whole lot of heart. With a strong commitment to quality and community, Amare continues to grow while staying true to its roots.
Find Amare Near You
From breezy highlands to bustling city centers, Amare has grown into a beloved destination for wood-fired flavors and warm Filipino hospitality. Here’s where you can enjoy the Amare experience:
Northern Highlands & North Luzon
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Baguio City – Outlook Drive
The original branch that started it all—celebrated for its wood-fired pizza, cozy interiors, and misty mountain views. -
Baguio City – Microtel by Wyndham
A welcoming branch nestled in a popular hotel—ideal for travelers. -
Amare Café at SLU (Saint Louis University, Baguio)
The latest spot for light meals, good coffee, and a lovely view of the cityscape. -
San Fernando, La Union
A beachfront getaway offering Italian favorites with a refreshing coastal vibe. -
Bantay, Ilocos Sur
A charming stop near the historic Bantay Bell Tower—perfect after a cultural stroll. -
Calasiao, Pangasinan – Monarch Hotel
A polished dining space inside a luxury hotel, blending comfort and class.
Metro Manila & Nearby Cities
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Pasig City – Canley Road
A lively urban branch where the wood-fired tradition meets the city beat. -
Pasig City – SM Megamall
Conveniently located in one of Metro Manila’s busiest malls—great for families and shoppers. -
Makati City
A premium dining destination for those craving bold flavors in the heart of the city. -
Las Piñas City – SM Southmall
Spacious and family-friendly, located in a major southern shopping hub.
Southern Escapes
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Sta. Rosa, Laguna – Nuvali (Ayala Malls)
Surrounded by greenery and family activities—perfect for weekend outings. -
Naic, Cavite
A hidden gem known for its laid-back vibe and scenic views. -
Tagaytay – Twin Lakes
Dine with a dramatic view of Taal Lake—romantic, refreshing, unforgettable. -
Tagaytay – SM Skyranch
Ideal for a fun family day out, just steps away from the amusement park. -
Tagaytay – Tagaytay Highlands
An exclusive mountain-side spot where the food is as breathtaking as the view.
