About Us

VISION

To create safe and inclusive spaces that enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of Baguio City's tourism industry, while fostering socio-economic development, improved quality of life, and positive impact on the surrounding municipalities and provinces.

MISSION

Our mission is to drive sustainable development and progress by designing and delivering innovative solutions for the ever-evolving challenges of our communities. Through a holistic approach, we aim to create spaces that prioritize safety, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship. By collaborating with local stakeholders, we strive to enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of Baguio City's tourism industry while fostering socio-economic development and an improved quality of life for residents. With a commitment to excellence, integrity, and social responsibility, we are dedicated to making a positive and lasting impact on the surrounding municipalities, provinces and regions.

OBJECTIVES

Foodlab, Inc. aims to:

Actively participate in the Philippine government’s Tourism Develop plans and programs for the improvement of potential tourist areas

Assist with the improvement of the infrastructure and physical environment of resort towns

Encourage investment in tourism-related activities

Establish, inspect, and monitor the standards of all entities operating in the tourism sector

Help create, organize, and conduct training programs to facilitate human development

These may only be achieved with a whole-of-government and businesses collaborating as one.

OVERVIEW

Foodlab, Inc. was established in 2012 with a mandate to develop and improve tourism products. In addition to the head office located on 6 Ozark Bldg. Bareng Drive, Bakakeng Norte, Baguio City, Foodlab has identified two upcoming regional developments – in Arringay, La Union (2024) and San Juan, La Union (2023).

In 2022 the company underwent a major restructuring exercise resulting in a clearer more proactive mandate aimed at being an industry leader in a spirit of partnership. The company now operates in a facilitatory mode ensuring that the physical, social and environmental aspects of our engagements and their offerings are of a standard conducive to a great destination experience. Additionally, Foodlab, Inc. supports and enhances the development of community-based tourism related projects through its entrepreneurship programs and through its Tourism for Prosperity Program.

Foodlab, Inc., through its various departments, works closely with all operators of tourism-related facilities promoting the attributes of a quality tourism product, monitoring the same and engaging the DOT-CAR, Baguio City Tourism Council and BLISTT Tourism Council in a continuous effort to satisfy tourists demand and expectations. The company also facilitates the development of tourism-related projects by providing expertise and consultations. The company adopts, sets, and promotes standards, guidelines and checklists for the industry to attain global competitiveness.

Ozark Bed and Breakfast

OUR STORY

For the past seven years, we have had the privilege of welcoming guests from all corners of the globe to our cozy mountain getaway surrounded by pine forest and a gorgeous view of Mt. Sto. Tomas in the distance, creating memorable experiences that linger long after check-out. As Airbnb Superhosts, we take pride in creating a space that goes beyond accommodation – it is a personalized journey, a home away from home.

OUR COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

With over 700 reviews, and maintaining a consistent Superhost status rating for seven years since opening our doors, we have built a reputation for delivering exceptional hospitality. We understand that every stay is unique, and we go the extra mile to ensure your comfort and satisfaction. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in every aspect of Ozark.

THE OZARK BED AND BREAKFAST EXPERIENCE

Nestled in a suburb of Baguio City where pine trees still abound, our seven-bedroom suites are designed to provide a harmonious blend of comfort, style, and functionality. Whether you are here for business, leisure, or a special occasion, we have crafted an environment that caters to your every need.

MEET YOUR SUPERHOSTS

Albert and Chef Kevin - We're not just hosts; we are locals now for the past ten years, originally from Dallas, Texas, who are passionate about sharing the best of Baguio City with our guests. From our insider tips on the must-visit local spots to thoughtful touches on the accommodation, we strive to make your stay unforgettable.

WHAT SETS US APART
  • Ozark Diner is among Esquire Magazine's Best Restaurants in the Philippines
  • Best pet-friendly accommodations
  • Immaculate cleanliness
  • Prompt and open communication
  • Thoughtful amenities and personalized touches
  • Local insights for a truly authentic experience
CONTACT US

Have questions, special requests, or just want to say hello? We're always here for you. Reach out to us at @ozarkdiner on Facebook.

Join us at Ozark and experience the pinnacle of Airbnb hospitality. Your journey begins with us – where every stay is a story, and every guest is family

Ozark Diner

What is so special about Ozark Diner, you ask? Our menu is carefully selected from the best local providers without compromising the integrity of our dishes. Our team aims to bring you the best American Experience through great food and relaxing accommodations. Our revolutionary Private Table, a restaurant-within-a-restaurant concept, shall feature local and international chefs. We have chosen a select list of chefs that will entice everyone from the local Baguio City residents to the constantly adventurous foodie tourist. We are perpetually on the path of learning about and perfecting each product we offer our customers.

Corporate Data

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Albert Jose L. Sotelo, MBA

Foodlab Inc. Board Chairperson and Founder; Master Chef/Operations Manager - Ozark Diner; Superhost - Ozark Bed and Breakfast

A balikbayan in 2012 from Dallas, Texas, USA. Albert is a 1984 DLSU graduate and a GSBE MBA of DLSU in 1991.

After an 18 year stint as the first USA Filipino franchisee of Subway Sandwiches and Salads and 11 years of working for American Airlines in DFW Airport - Dallas, Texas; his keen sense of the Philippine Economic Development led him to believe that investing in the Philippines could be very promising.

Starting a small business with a 6′ table at a wet market selling cheesecakes and cookies with Chef Kevin Mize eventually evolved into Foodlab Inc. established in July, 2013. He has been a consultant to the CAAP (Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines) and was on staff at Moderne Culinaire in Taguig City teaching Business Entrepreneurship. OZARK Diner and Ozark Bed and Breakfast is his first brick-and -mortar establishment in Baguio City, Philippines.

By 2022, Ozark Diner was heralded as one of the Best Restaurants in the Philippines by EsquireMagazine.Ph. Ozark Bed and Breakfast has been designated a Superhost, the highest status with Airbnb.com, the largest online Accommodation Establishment booking site in the world.

Together with his team, he has set his sights on expansion of Foodlab Inc. to include environmentally sound concepts such as Farm-to-Table dining, and Eco-Farming Tourism and Development. He is currently a member of the Baguio City Tourism Council since November, 2022, representing the Mabuhay Accommodation Establishments Sub-sector.

Chef Kevin Wayne Mize

Foodlab Inc. - Board Member and Founder, Ozark Diner - Executive Chef

Chef Kevin was born and grew up in Arkansas, USA with a large family of aunts, uncles and cousins with a love for food. He first learned to cook in college and was soon cooking for many of his college friends every Friday night. College cooking became more of a serious hobby and after cooking a four course meal for 400 guests, he decided to change careers and go to culinary school.

Little Rock, Arkansas had just started an apprentice program through the American Culinary Federation and Kevin was lucky enough to start at Andre’s Hillcrest. Andre’s was known for having the best desserts in town and when the opportunity came to take over responsibility of filling that dessert tray, Chef Kevin stepped up to the challenge. This is when the now famous Dark Beer Cheesecake by Ozark Diner was developed and shaped into the recipe that it is today.

In 2011 Chef Kevin moved to the Philippines with his husband, Albert and taught Culinary Arts at Moderne Culinaire in Taguig City and at Senior Tesoro Academy, Calasiao, Pangasinan. Teaching has proven to be rewarding, seeing students go on to start their culinary professions.

By November, 2011, Kevin and Albert began to sell cheesecakes, cookies and dessert pies at night markets and bazaars under the Foodlab Inc. brand. The business built to include a coveted spot in the Legazpi Sunday Market and supplying cheesecakes to the Manila Polo Club’s Best Desserts program.

On August 30, 2014, Ozark Diner opened in Baguio City. By 2017, Ozark Bed and Breakfast would open its first three listings on Airbnb. Since then, Ozark Diner has been included in EsquireMagazinePh’s Best Restaurants in the Philippines, 2022. Ozark Bed and Breakfast was awarded Superhost status for excellence, the highest of its rank on Airbnb.com, the largest accommodation establishment online booking site in the world.

Ms. Grich Anne S. Bareng

Board Member

Grich Anne S.Bareng earned her bachelor's degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management at St. Scholastica's College in Manila in 2012. She completed her practicum at the Manila Peninsula Hotel in Makati City and then at FoodLab Inc. during its inception while writing a thesis on the much debated culture of tipping in the hospitality industry in the Philippines.

 

Mr. David Wolter

Board Member

David Wolter is a United States Marine Corps Veteran, an astute businessman, and a trailblazer in the realms of technology and construction. His professional journey began in 1995 and ended in 2001, while in the service from 1995-2001, David demonstrated exceptional prowess in building Turbine jet engines.

By 2001, he had a brief significant tenure at General Electric, continuing his passion for Mechanics. In 2002, he moved to the Philippines and enrolled in a four-year Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering program in Makati, bringing together his Mechanical aptitude and interest in computer technology.

In 2006, David founded Custom Virtual Solutions, a web development company, exhibiting his mastery in Computer Engineering and Software Development. His vision led him to expand in 2012, establishing CVS, a BPO with over 100 employees, illustrating his capacity to seamlessly navigate and flourish in diverse sectors.

In 2018, David co-founded Intelli Construction Services Philippines, leveraging his multi-faceted expertise and innate leadership skills to create a prosperous construction contracting firm. As an American operating in the Philippines, he brings an invaluable wealth of knowledge, an unmatched attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to integrity. His philosophy resonates on every job site: Fostering a culture of diligence, professionalism, and quality. Throughout his versatile career, David has demonstrated a unique ability to marry technical expertise with entrepreneurial acumen, earning him a well-deserved reputation as a dynamic leader and industry innovator.

Mr. Ogie del Mundo

Board Member

Joseph Del Mundo earned his Master’s in Computing at University of Technology - Sydney in Sydney, Australia in 2002. A culmination of passion and curiosity about computers that started way back in highschool.

He was lecturer at Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (Formerly Central Luzon Polytechnic College) from 1996 - 2005 while simultaneously holding the offices of Dean of the College of Computer Studies (1996 - 2000) and Director of the Management Information Systems (1996 - 2000). He was largely instrumental in making the internet accessible for student’s use and the university’s connectivity.

He moved to La Union in 2005 and became a freelance IT consultant. This also allowed him to pursue his passion for travel and getting to know different places, people, food and cultures.

Mr. Diego San Miguel

Board Member / Executive Assistant to the President

Diego San Miguel is a serial entrepreneur and business consultant, previously holding the title of VP of Product at MBO Partners. His core responsibilities involved overseeing design, engineering, and production; where he was Lead to the New Product Team and Marketing Team.

Diego started his first business (web design, development) in high school before putting himself through college as a working student. His first job out of school was managing a helicopter operations company before moving out into tech, specifically product management.

Diego moved to the Philippines in 2014. When not consulting and working on his next project, Diego spends his time outdoors in the Philippines with his two boys, River and Seven.

Mr. Dean Erick Ignacio

A Manila-based blogger, content creator, photographer, aerial videographer and travel enthusiast

He earned his degree in Education at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines in 2005 and have extensive background in customer service sector having worked with some of the top hotels in Manila - Heritage Hotel, New World Rennaissance, Makati and EDSA Shangri-la to name a few. Having almost two decades of expertise on customer service in the Business Processing and Outsourcing industry leading campaigns for brands like Nokia UK, Telus and J.P. Morgan and Chase Group. Currently, he is a Senior Quality Supervisor for ConnectNow/AGL - the oldest electricity and utility company in Australia.

He is also a freelance travel and commercial photographer, videographer and more recently, a CAAP licensed drone pilot.

On his free time, he is always on the lookout for the up-and-coming local tourist destination. He also started a pet project PROJECT 82x50 - to explore all of Philippine's 82 provinces before he turned 50. So far, he already covered 63. An avid local comic book and bul'ul collector, he's also a regular content contributor to some local and international in-flight magazines.

If ever you will find him at home, he's busy planning world domination with his 4 cats.