As a keen traveler, one of the best things about visiting new destinations is getting to try their food culture. And when it comes to truly amazing flavor, the Philippines is never disappointing. From night markets to small eateries and beach restaurants, each morsel in this country has something to say. Having spent time traveling consistently in the country and archipelago, I’ve found fantastic eateries and places to enjoy incredible food when visiting the nation. Below are the top eaters that are the must-vites when traveling in the Philippines.
1. Manam (Metro Manila) – Best Filipino Comfort Food
The moment I touch down in Manila, I automatically head for Manam, a restaurant that specializes in its vintage and contemporary versions of Filipino fare. Its sinigang na beef short rib and watermelon is a showstopper, blending the ideal combination of sour and sweet flavors. A must-order is their sizzling sisig, which is both crunchy and packed with flavor. I appreciate the fact that they have “small, medium, and large” serving sizes so one can easily have it for oneself or share it with friends.
2. Larsian BBQ (Cebu City) – The Ultimate Barbecue Experience
Cebu is food paradise, and during my visit there, I ensure that I always drop by at Larsian, a fabled BBQ market filled with rows and rows of vendors grilling delectable sticks of meat on skewers. I always opt for the pork barbecue, grilled chicken or inasal, chorizo de Cebu, and accompany it with puso or hanging rice. The smoky smell and vibrant vibe make it an authentic local experience. If you’re a fan of grilled food, this is a must-visit.
3. Abe (Tagaytay & Manila) – Filipino Comfort Food with a View
If there’s a restaurant where I feel comfortable being at home indulging in Filipino food, that would be Abe. They focus on Kapampangan cuisine classics, and my personal favorite would be the Knockout Knuckles (crispy pata) and their decadent Kare-Kare topped with a dense, peanut-based sauce. I like to have dinner here whenever I’m in Tagaytay because it’s cool weather and the awesome view of the Taal Volcano, and it makes everything even better.
4. La Preciosa (Laoag, Ilocos Norte) – Where I Had the Best Ilocano Food
My affair with Ilocano food began in La Preciosa in Laoag. I first tried bagnet (deep-fried crispy pork belly) here, and let’s just say my life was transformed. Their poqui-poqui (eggplant omelet) and pinakbet (vegetable stew) are also amazing. And the best carrot cake I ever had! The friendly Ilocano warmness here makes every trip special.
5. Balay Cena Una (Bicol) – A Hidden Gem for Bicolano Cuisine
On my visit to Albay, I chanced upon Balay Cena Una, a restored ancestral home converted into a fine dining restaurant. Their laing (taro leaves in coconut milk) and Bicol Express (spicy coconut-based pork dish) were full of flavors, hitting the right balance of spicy, creamy, and savory. The old-world ambiance made the experience even more special.
6. Cafe by the Ruins (Baguio) – Where Art and Food Unite
Whenever I am in Baguio, I always end up at Cafe by the Ruins for a warm breakfast or afternoon coffee. Their Kamote Bread with homemade spreads, Ruins Coffee, and Baguio Bagnet are a must-order. This café is an intermix of art, history, and comfort food, which makes it a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing in the city’s cool climate and pine trees.
7. Dampa Seafood Market (Manila & Cebu) – The Freshest Seafood Feast
Seafood enthusiasts, rejoice: Dampa is the destination for you! The market-style restaurant lets you choose fresh seafood—prawns, crabs, squid, and the like—and have it prepared right before your eyes in your desired manner. My order of choice? Butter garlic prawns, baked scallops, and sweet chili crabs. It’s a sharing feast, which I adore, as well as the vibrant, busy environment of the marketplace.
8. SUNA Hotel Café (Siargao) – A Beachside Brunch Spot
Siargao is my second home, and my mornings aren’t complete without brunch at SUNA Hotel Café. Their smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and freshly brewed coffee are perfect before a day of surfing or island-hopping. The laid-back vibe and ocean breeze make it one of my favorite spots to relax and recharge.
9. Neva’s Pizza (Sagada) – Comfort Food in the Mountains
Sagada is famous for its tranquil mountain scenery, and after hiking and spelunking for the day, I always yearn for comfort food. Neva’s Pizza is a tiny rustic pizzeria that offers wood-fired pizzas straight from the oven with fresh local ingredients. Try their Etag (cured pork) Pizza, a Sagada specialty not found anywhere else!
10. Shaka Café (Boracay & Siargao) – Beachside Vegan and Healthy Food
For healthy food choices, Shaka Café in Boracay and Siargao is my favorite destination for smoothie bowls, fresh juices, and plant-based dishes. Their Bom Dia smoothie bowl topped with granola and tropical fruits is my top choice for a refreshing and healthy breakfast.
Final Thoughts
The Philippines is a food heaven, and wherever I go in the country, I always have a wonderful, comforting, and unforgettable meal. These food destinations are close to my heart not only because of the incredible food but also because of the stories, individuals, and moments that make every dining experience special. If you’re taking a trip to the Philippines, I recommend trying these food spots out for an experience of a lifetime.
Which one of these have you tried? Do you have a favorite food spot in the Philippines? Let me know—I’d love to add some more to my ever-growing list!