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Manila food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Manila.
What to eat in Manila
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Adobo
Chicken or pork braised in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and black peppercorns, it's a quintessential Filipino comfort food with a tangy, savory profile.
Sinigang
A sour and savory soup, typically made with tamarind broth, pork, and various vegetables like kangkong and radish, offering a refreshing contrast to richer dishes.
Lechon
Whole roasted pig with incredibly crispy skin and succulent meat, considered a celebratory dish and a must-try for its rich flavor and texture.
Halo-Halo
A popular dessert made with shaved ice, milk, sweet beans, fruits, jellies, and topped with leche flan and ice cream, perfect for cooling down.
Sisig
A sizzling dish made from chopped pig's face and ears, seasoned with onions, chili peppers, and calamansi, often served on a hot plate.
Kare-Kare
A rich stew made with oxtail, tripe, and vegetables in a thick, savory peanut sauce, traditionally eaten with bagoong (shrimp paste).
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Historic and bohemian, with a mix of old-world charm and vibrant nightlife.
Manila's Chinatown, a bustling district with centuries of culinary history.
Modern and upscale, with trendy cafes, international cuisine, and hidden bars.
Authentic and chaotic, known for its vibrant market and street food vendors.
Dietary notes
Filipino cuisine is generally meat and seafood-heavy, with dishes often featuring pork, chicken, and fish. Vegetarian options can be limited, though vegetable dishes like 'Ginataang Gulay' (vegetables in coconut milk) and rice are widely available. Gluten-free options are challenging due to soy sauce and flour-based components in many dishes.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service (around 10%).
- •Cash is king, especially in smaller eateries and markets, though larger establishments accept cards.
- •It's polite to say 'Kain tayo!' (Let's eat!) before starting a meal, especially when invited to share.
- •Don't be afraid to eat with your hands ('kamayan') at informal settings; it's a common and enjoyable way to eat.
Plan the rest of your Manila trip
Food guides elsewhere