If you’re a food lover, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure like no other! The Philippines, with its rich tapestry of cultures and flavors, is a paradise for anyone who appreciates good food. From the bustling streets of Manila to the serene shores of Palawan, each region offers its own unique dishes and vibrant food scenes. Whether you’re craving savory street snacks, sweet delicacies, or fresh seafood, there’s something here to tantalize your taste buds. So grab your fork and your sense of adventure as we explore 15 unforgettable food destinations in the Philippines that you absolutely must visit!
Laguna
Tourists are drawn to Laguna because of its diverse range of mouthwatering regional cuisine and rich cultural legacy. *Buko pie*, a coconut-filled pie that is well-known in the area and has a flaky crust and a creamy, sweet filling, is one of the must-try dishes. Also available to guests is *suman*, which is sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves and frequently served with ripe mangoes or sweet coconut nectar. Fresh spring rolls, or *lumpiang sariwa*, are a popular option for people who are craving savory flavors. They are loaded with meat and sautéed veggies and served with a garlicky peanut sauce. Finally, a hearty sense of Filipino home cooking may be found in *sinigang na baboy*, a sour pork soup with tamarind and fresh vegetables.
Cagayan de Oro
The rich flavors of Northern Mindanao are reflected in the delicious variety of meals that Cagayan de Oro has to offer. *Miswa*, a light and flavorful noodle soup prepared with thin wheat noodles, ground pork, and veggies, is one of the must-try foods. The city is particularly well-known for its *chicken inasal*, a tasty grilled chicken marinated in a zesty mixture of spices, vinegar, and calamansi that is frequently served with dipping sauces and soy sauce on the side. *kinilaw na tangigue*, a Filipino ceviche made with raw fish, vinegar, and spices, is a pleasant treat for anyone desiring fresh seafood. Don’t miss *kuyamis*, a sweet and fragrant coconut-based treat that’s frequently eaten as a snack or dessert, if you have a sweet tooth.
Binondo
With its blend of traditional Chinese and Filipino-inspired cuisine, Binondo, Manila’s vibrant Chinatown, offers a feast of flavors. Travelers can enjoy *siomai*, which are savory dumplings packed with shrimp or pork and frequently served with a zesty dipping sauce made from soy. Try the famous *chop suey*, a stir-fried vegetable dish with beef or shellfish and a delicious sauce, for a filling supper. A common street food snack that’s ideal for on-the-go eating are *lumpiang shanghai*, which are crispy spring rolls filled with pork. Try *hopia*, a sweet, flaky pastry filled with sweet custard or mung beans, as a way to finish the meal.
Roxas
*Sinigang na bangus*, a tangy fish soup with veggies, is one of the many must-try delicacies that Roxas City, which is well-known for its fresh seafood, offers tourists. A local specialty, grilled oysters, or *inihaw na talaba*, are sometimes savored with a dash of calamansi for taste. *Baked talaba*, which consists of perfectly baked oysters covered with cheese and garlic, is another well-liked meal. Visitors can savor *suman*, a sticky rice delight accompanied by *latik*, a sweet coconut sauce, for dessert. Remember to try Roxas’ well-known roasted cashews, a crunchy treat that’s ideal to take home.
Cavite
Cavite is known for its delicious local specialties that showcase its rich culinary heritage. *Buko pie*, a creamy coconut custard-filled pie, is a must-try dessert that originated in the province. For savory dishes, *tapang Caviteña*, a sweet and garlicky cured beef, is perfect for breakfast, often served with rice. Another popular dish is *pancit Caviteño*, a flavorful noodle dish made with meat, vegetables, and shrimp, offering a unique twist on the classic pancit.
Batangas
A wide range of delectable meals that showcase Batangas’ rich culinary legacy are available. After a long day, *bulalo*, a filling beef shank soup cooked with veggies and maize, is a must-try. *lomi*, a thick noodle soup with pork and veggies, is a satisfying and cozy local dish. Another well-known product from Batangas is *kapeng barako*, a robust and fragrant coffee that goes well with *pan de sal*. A tasty regional delicacy for a savory treat is *tinutungan na baboy*, a pork dish prepared in a spicy and acidic sauce.
Zamboanga
Zamboanga City offers a delectable blend of flavors, with meals influenced by both Malay and Spanish traditions. *Satti*, a popular morning dish of skewered grilled pork served with rice and a savory, spicy sauce, is a must-try. For those who enjoy seafood, Zamboanga is especially well-known for its *curacha*, a big, spiny crab that is frequently prepared in a savory, thick sauce. The *empanadae*, a crispy pastry stuffed with veggies, potatoes, and ground beef, is another local favorite. It’s a filling snack. Visitors can enjoy *bienvenido*, a chewy and delectable rice snack made with coconut milk, as a sweet treat.
Pangasinan
The rich culture and history of Pangasinan are reflected in the delicious variety of traditional foods it offers. The province’s hallmark dish, *bangus* (milkfish), which is typically served grilled or stuffed, is a must-try. *Pigar-pigar*, a flavorful stir-fry consisting of beef or carabao meat, cabbage, and bean sprouts, is another local favorite. A typical festival dessert is *tupig*, a sticky rice cake wrapped in banana leaves and roasted over charcoal. Finally, tourists may enjoy *sinigang na baboy*, a sour pork soup that ideally combines the region’s love of fresh ingredients and strong flavors.
Davao
Davao is renowned for its colorful and fresh flavors, emphasizing products that are produced locally. *Kinilaw*, a Filipino-style ceviche cooked with fresh fish, vinegar, and regional seasonings, is one of the highlights and ideal for anybody wishing to try the area’s seafood. The famous “king of fruits,” durian, is a must-try for daring diners because of its unique scent and creamy texture. Excellent seafood is also available in the area, particularly *tuna*, which may be prepared in a variety of ways, including *tuna kinilaw* and grilled tuna belly. When combined with fresh mangoes or Davao’s renowned *carabao milk*, *suman* (sticky rice) creates a wonderful dessert that highlights the region’s tropical abundance.
Bacolod
Known as the “City of Smiles,” Bacolod also has a thriving culinary scene that reflects its agricultural background and rich history. *Inasal*, a Visayan-style grilled chicken marinated in a mixture of spices, vinegar, and calamansi, is one of the most well-known dishes. It is usually served with rice and a dipping sauce. Offering a flavor of Bacolod’s sugarcane-rich terrain, *Piaya*, a sweet flatbread filled with muscovado sugar, is a favorite snack and souvenir. For a savory treat, residents prefer *kansi*, a hearty and tasty soup prepared with beef shank and a sour tamarind broth. A filling dish that embodies the region’s robust culinary traditions, *batchoy* is a noodle soup made with pig, liver, and chicharrón and is also found in Bacolod.
Ilocos Sur
Ilocos Sur has a wide range of mouthwatering regional cuisine that honors the area’s rich cultural past. Empanadas, a crispy pastry stuffed with delicious ingredients including longganisa, egg, and veggies, are a must-try. They are typically eaten with a vinegar dip. When served with *kBL* (kangkong, bagoong, and lettuce), *bagnet*, a crispy and tender deep-fried pig belly, is a must-try for everyone who enjoys grilled cuisine. Another classic is *poqui-poqui*, a tasty vegetable dish made with eggplant and egg that goes well with rice. Last but not least, enjoy a sweet treat of *sundot kulangot*, a sticky sugar candy made from coconut that gives you a flavor of traditional Ilocos Sur delicacies.
Bicol
Bicol is well known for its strong, savory food, which is frequently distinguished by the extensive use of coconut milk and chile. *Bicol Express*, a hot mixture of pork, shrimp, or fish cooked in creamy coconut milk with flaming chilies, is a must-try delicacy. *Laing*, which is made from dried taro leaves boiled in coconut milk and seasoned with shrimp paste and chile, is another local favorite. *sili ice cream*, which highlights Bicol’s love of chili, delivers a distinctive combination of sweetness and heat for those in search of a savory delight. Enjoy *pili nuts*, which are indigenous to the area and are frequently made into chocolates, cakes, or even savory dishes, to round out the gastronomic experience.
Iloilo City
The greatest of Visayan cuisine can be found in Iloilo City’s thriving culinary sector. A must-try is *La Paz Batchoy*, a savory broth-topped thick noodle soup made with pig, beef, and crunchy pork cracklings. *Kadyos, Baboy, Langka* (KBL), a savory stew prepared with pork, pigeon peas, and young jackfruit that has a distinct, earthy flavor, is another local favorite. Enjoy *Suman sa Lihia*, a sticky rice delicacy wrapped in banana leaves and frequently served with sugar or ripe mangoes, for dessert. A hearty dumpling soup that is a true Ilonggo dish, *Pancit Molo* is not to be missed.
Cebu
Cebu has a delicious selection of dishes that perfectly encapsulate Filipino cooking. *Lechon*, a whole roasted pig with crispy skin and soft meat that is frequently regarded as the best in the nation, is a must-try. *sutukil*, a concoction of fresh seafood dishes, including *sugba* (grilled), *tula* (soup), and *kilaw* (raw fish salad), is another local favorite. You must have *mangoes* for dessert, particularly Cebu’s renowned juicy and sweet *Carabao mangoes*, which are typically eaten with *biko* (sweet rice cake) or *suman* (sticky rice). A classic accompaniment to grilled meat and shellfish is *puso*, or rice wrapped in woven coconut leaves. Lastly, wash everything down with a cold glass of *tuba* (fermented coconut sap) or a refreshing *buko* (coconut) juice.
Pampanga
Pampanga has a rich culinary history and a wide range of delectable meals. *Sisig*, a sizzling mixture of chopped pork, is a must-try. It’s typically served with a raw egg and is seasoned with chile and calamansi for a flavorful kick. Similar to *paella*, *bringhe* is a regional rice meal that is prepared with pork, seafood, and spices and garnished with banana leaves for flavor. *kare-kare*, a creamy peanut stew with oxtail, tripes, and vegetables, is another favorite. Shrimp paste is typically added for tang. A delicious way to finish any meal is with *turron*, which are crunchy spring rolls stuffed with sugar and caramelized banana.
