andreadelgadoThe 7,107 islands of the Pearl of the Orient Seas boast of cultures, language, sounds, and sights that are as lively as its people
Musings of a Manila Munchie
Philippines
Now based in the Philippine capital means that I am constantly spoilt for choice when it comes to food. While it’s easy to gravitate towards international cuisines, my heart truly belongs to good ol’ classic Filipino dishes! Here’s my list of Metro Manila’s best restaurants for local eats.
Updated 4 years ago
Milky Way Cafe is the place Manileños (locals residing in Manila) take guests to when they want to serve them home-cooked Filipino food—without actually making it at home. Here, each dish tastes clean, authentic, and just like mom makes them! End your meal with their special Milky Way Halo-Halo (cold dessert with crushed ice, beans, gelatin, rice krispies, ice cream, and more), which I think is one of the city’s best.
- +63028434124
Second Floor MilkyWay Building, 900 A. Arnaiz Avenue corner Paseo De Roxas Street, San Lorenzo, Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines
- http://www.cafe.milkywayrestaurant.com
Families flock to Harbor View Restaurant for a fresh seafood feast, but for me, it’s real draw is the Chicharon Bulaklak! Made of deep-fried pig intestines, the iconic street food dish is crunchy, flavorful, and sinful. It’s the perfect companion to a round of beer at the bayside joint!
- +63027100060
South Gate A, Rizal Park, Katigbak Park, Ermita, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Located in an ancestral home in Malate, Manila, Purple Yam is a serious dining joint serving reimagined Filipino fares. The restaurant is the first and only Philippine branch of Purple Yam from Brooklyn, New York, which is also known for its innovative take on classic Filipino food. Reserve your seats at least two days before your visit to secure a spot in Chef Romy Dorotan’s guest list!
- +6325233497
603 Julio Nakpil, Malate, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
- https://www.purpleyamph.com/
Pork barbecue (grilled pork skewers) is an essential Filipino dish—so much so that you’ll find it in practically every local restaurant’s menu! Ineng’s dedicates itself to the street-side delicacy, specializing in all kinds of grilled meat. I often visit their weekend pop-ups at Salcedo Sunday Market in Makati to enjoy the slightly sweet skewers (dipped in vinegar, of course), but they also have a restaurant in the nearby Legazpi Village for when you’re craving a few sticks in the middle of the week!
Ground Floor, 500 Shaw Zentrum, Pleasant Hills, Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Zubuchon was praised by American celebrity food connoisseur Anthony Bourdain as the “best pig ever!” Before the Cebu-based chain opened a branch in Makati, Manileños would often order a whole lechon (roasted suckling pig) from Cebu, then have it flown into Manila! Nowadays, it only takes a short drive to savor the crispy, juicy delicacy—no sauce needed.
- +63027283931
135 Talisay Street, Barangay San Antonio Village, Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines
- https://www.zubuchon.com/
When it comes to Buko Pandan (young coconut and pandan dessert), Nathaniel’s is a clear winner. The Pampanga-grown brand is famous for their Buko Pandan Salad, a creamy sweet treat that leaves your palate clean and, often, wanting more. You’ll usually find tubs of Nathaniel's' specialty in grocery stores, but drop by one of their retail shops to bring home a few other regional goodies, as well!
- +63029211959
Unit 3 & 4 ITC Commercial Complex, Timog Avenue corner Panay Avenue, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines
- https://www.nathaniels.com.ph/
About Philippines
