Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Manila
Discover the 6 best local and traditional foods to try in Manila. Get AI-powered recommendations for authentic dishes, traditional cuisine, and the best restaurants.
Adobo
Adobo is perhaps the most iconic Filipino dish, characterized by its marinated meat, usually chicken or pork, simmered in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices. Each region has its own twist on this beloved classic, making it a staple in Filipino households.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Adobo reflects the diverse influences on Filipino cuisine, particularly Spanish.
Where to try it
Sinigang na Baboy
Sinigang na Baboy is a sour pork soup made with tamarind, tomatoes, and various vegetables like radish and eggplant. The sourness of the broth is refreshing and is a comfort food for many Filipinos.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch or dinner
Cultural Significance
This dish embodies the Filipino love for sour flavors and is often served during gatherings.
Where to try it
Lechon
Lechon is a whole roasted pig, renowned for its crispy skin and juicy meat, often served at celebrations and special occasions. It is a symbol of Filipino hospitality and culinary heritage.
Ingredients
Best Time
special occasions
Cultural Significance
Lechon is a centerpiece of Filipino feasts and represents joy and celebration.
Where to try it
Halo-Halo
Halo-Halo is a popular Filipino dessert made with a mix of shaved ice, evaporated milk, and a variety of ingredients like sweet beans, jellies, and topped with ube and leche flan. It's a delightful treat perfect for hot tropical weather.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Halo-Halo showcases the Filipino creativity in combining flavors and textures in one dessert.
Where to try it
Bibingka
Bibingka is a traditional rice cake made with rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar, baked in clay pots lined with banana leaves. It's often enjoyed during the Christmas season but can be found year-round.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Bibingka reflects the Philippine harvest culture and is often associated with Christmas traditions.
Where to try it
Street Food - Kwek-Kwek
Kwek-Kwek are quail eggs coated in orange batter and deep-fried, often served with a vinegar dip. It's a popular street food snack, loved for its crunchiness and savory flavor.
Ingredients
Best Time
snack time
Cultural Significance
Kwek-Kwek represents the vibrant street food culture in Manila, often enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.