Food in Manila: What and Where to eat

Food in Manila, Philippines: What and Where to eat

The Philippines is made up of more than 7000 islands with multiple cultures. Each of these islands is surely to have special dishes of their own to take pride on, which contributes a lot to the diverse cuisine of Filipino. Although Filipino food may not be as well-known as that of Thais or Vietnamese, it’s changing and has evolved to be a new interesting thing in the food world. With the tropical climate, all the islands of the Philippines, including Manila, are blessed with an abundance of seafood, fruits and various kinds of culinary ingredients. Talking about food in Manila, this lovely island has a lot more to offer, rather than the “famous” duck embryos and fried pigs’ head. Let’s go with us to know what to eat and where to find them when visiting this beautiful island.

1. Abodo

   

Abodo has made it name as the unofficial national dish of Philippine cuisine and this means that you should never miss out on this dish when coming to the Philippines. In fact, this tasteful dish surprisingly has its origin from Mexico. Chicken (or pork) is cooked with vinegar, salt, garlic, pepper and soy sauce. This way of cooking can help to preserve the meat without refrigeration and also bring a special taste it.

Where to eat: Adobo Connection Morayta, Nicanor Reyes, Manila Metro, Manila, Philippines

2. Kare-kare

   

No list of Manila food would be complete without kare-kare. This stew oxtail dish comes in the delicious sauce made from ground toasted rice and crushed peanuts and it is served with some steamed rice and shrimp paste. Kare-kare can be made with seafood or vegetables as well.

Where to eat: Milky Way Cafe, 928 Pasay Road (A. Arnaiz Ave.), Makati, 1223 Metro Manila

3. Halo-halo

   

Halo-halo means “mix-mix” since the dish is a mixture of shaved ice and evaporated milk topped with sweetened beans, coconut shavings, tapioca, fruits and agar jelly, etc. Halo-halo is such a perfect choice for the summer heat of Manila. This dessert has numerous variations and each restaurant offers their own version it.

Where to eat: Milky Way Café, Milkyway building, 900 Arnaiz Avenue, Pasay corner Paseo de Roxas, Makati city

4. Kinilaw

   

Kinilaw, also called kilaw as well, is a combination of raw, cubed fish with palm coconut vinegar, ginger, chili and spices. In some regions, people even bath the fish in coconut cream. Kinilaw is usually eaten as an appetizer, especially for beer drinking. This kind of food in Manila will surely leave you in awe.

Where to try it: Manila’s seaside “dampa” (wet market) scene along Macapagal Boulevard in Pasay City

5. Buko pie

   

Buko pie is a traditional Filipino custard pie made from baked young coconut. Despite its simplicity in flavour, buko pie has become a beloved staple in Filipino home. Buko pie is often bought to take home by tourists. To make a perfect buko pie, the crust must be consistent and the filling must be even.

Where to try it: Wildflour Cafe and Bakery, Corner 4th Avenue and 26th Street Ground Floor, Net Lima Building, Fort Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, Luzon Philippines

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