Joanna James
With a mix of traditional Filipino cuisine and international flavours, Manila offers a diverse range of culinary experiences. Here are some of the best food and drink experiences in Manila that you won't want to miss.
Traditional Filipino cuisine is rich in history and culture, influenced by the country's diverse geography and colonial past. From hearty stews to sweet desserts, there is a wide variety of dishes to try. Some popular examples include adobo, a savoury meat dish cooked in vinegar and soy sauce; sinigang, a sour and savoury soup with tamarind broth and a mix of vegetables and meat or seafood; and lechon, a whole roasted pig that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. For dessert, there is halo-halo, a refreshing mix of shaved ice, sweetened beans, fruits, and milk, or bibingka, a rice cake made with coconut milk and topped with butter and cheese. Trying traditional Filipino dishes is not just a culinary experience, but also a way to appreciate the country's rich history and diverse culture.
Manila Bay is home to some of the freshest seafood in the country. From grilled squid to shrimp cooked in garlic butter, there's something for everyone. Don't miss out on trying the famous "Lomi" - a seafood noodle soup that is a local favourite. You could also learn to cook some seafood dishes and master them while staying at serviced apartments in Manila the likes of Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila.
Manila is a melting pot of cultures, and this is reflected in its food scene. You'll find international cuisine ranging from Japanese to Italian. Head to Poblacion, the city's hippest neighbourhood, for some of the best international food experiences.
The Philippines is famous for its rum, and Manila has some of the best cocktails in the country. Try a "Boracay Breeze" made with rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream or a "Mango Margarita" made with fresh mangoes.
For some of the best views of Manila, head to a rooftop bar. Many of the city's top hotels have rooftop bars that offer incredible vistas of the city skyline. Sip on a cocktail and watch the sunset over the city.
If you're looking for a more casual dining experience, head to one of Manila's food markets. Mercato Centrale and Salcedo Market are two of the most popular. Here, you'll find a wide variety of street food and local dishes at affordable prices.
No visit to Manila is complete without trying a halo-halo. This colourful dessert is made with shaved ice, evaporated milk, sweet beans, and jellies, and topped with a scoop of ice cream. It's the perfect way to cool down on a hot day. To enjoy a traditional halo-halo experience, head to Razon's of Guagua, a popular chain restaurant that has been serving up this dessert for over 70 years.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
