A Taste of the Philippines: Best Food Dishes You Must Try
The Philippines, with its vibrant culture and rich history, offers an equally colourful and diverse food scene. A blend of Malay, Spanish, Chinese, and American influences has shaped Filipino cuisine into a delicious tapestry of sweet, savoury, and sour flavours. Whether you’re exploring Manila’s busy streets or relaxing on the beaches of Palawan, you’ll find mouthwatering local dishes that are worth seeking out.
Here are some of the best Filipino food dishes you absolutely must try:
1. Adobo
A true Filipino classic, adobo is a dish made by marinating meat (usually chicken or pork) in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns, then simmering it until tender. It’s tangy, savoury, and deeply comforting. Every region has its own version, so you’re likely to experience slightly different flavours depending on where you go.
Traveller’s Tip: Ask for adobo with extra sauce—Filipinos love to pair it with heaps of steamed rice.
2. Sinigang
This sour tamarind-based soup is a staple in Filipino homes. It’s made with pork, shrimp, or fish and simmered with vegetables like kangkong (water spinach), eggplant, and okra. Sinigang offers a unique balance of tartness and umami that’s both refreshing and hearty.
Traveller’s Tip: The sourness varies by region; if you’re adventurous, try sinigang sa bayabas (guava) or sinigang sa miso (with fermented soybean paste) for a twist.
3. Lechon
Lechon—whole roasted pig—is a showstopper at Filipino celebrations. With its crispy, golden skin and juicy meat, it’s often considered the king of all Filipino dishes. Cebu is particularly known for having the best lechon in the country.
Traveller’s Tip: Don’t skip the liver-based sauce or vinegar dip that’s usually served on the side—they balance the richness beautifully.
4. Kare-Kare
A rich and comforting peanut stew made with oxtail, vegetables, and sometimes tripe or pork hocks. It’s served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste), which adds a salty, umami kick to the mildly sweet and nutty sauce.
Traveller’s Tip: If you’re vegetarian, some restaurants offer a meat-free version using tofu and vegetables.
5. Halo-Halo
Perfect for hot days, halo-halo is a colourful, layered dessert made with shaved ice, evaporated milk, jellies, beans, sweetened fruits, and topped with leche flan or purple yam. It’s as fun to eat as it is to look at!
Traveller’s Tip: Order it at a local carinderia (eatery) for an authentic and budget-friendly treat.
6. Pancit Canton
This stir-fried noodle dish is influenced by Chinese cuisine and is typically made with egg noodles, vegetables, soy sauce, and your choice of meat or seafood. It’s often served during birthdays for good luck and long life.
Traveller’s Tip: Try it with calamansi (Filipino lime) squeezed on top for a zesty finish.
From savoury meats to refreshing sweets, Filipino cuisine offers something for every palate. Each dish tells a story of the country’s history, regional diversity, and love for good food. Whether you’re visiting bustling Manila or the peaceful islands, be sure to sample as much local fare as you can—it’s a major part of the experience.
Want to taste your way through the Philippines with us? We offer carefully curated tours that highlight the best sights and flavours of the country. Email us at info@linkstravelandtours.co.uk to find out more or tailor your dream foodie adventure!