The Philippines is a culinary treasure chest. With its blend of Malay, Spanish, Chinese, and American influences, Filipino cuisine offers a unique mix of comfort, sweetness, and spice. Whether you’re new to the islands or a seasoned expat, here are ten must-try dishes that capture the flavor of the Philippines.
1. Adobo
Often called the unofficial national dish, adobo is pork or chicken simmered in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and peppercorns. Every household has its own version, making it a true taste of Filipino home cooking.
2. Sinigang
A sour tamarind-based soup loaded with pork, shrimp, or fish, and fresh vegetables. It’s tangy, hearty, and perfect during the rainy season. Try sinigang na baboy (pork sinigang) for the most authentic experience.
3. Lechon
Roasted whole pig with crispy golden skin — a staple at festivals and celebrations. Cebu is known for producing the country’s best lechon.
4. Kare-Kare
A rich peanut stew made with oxtail, tripe, and vegetables, served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste). Its nutty flavor and silky sauce make it a comfort dish for locals and visitors alike.
5. Pancit Canton
These stir-fried noodles symbolize long life and are served at nearly every birthday party. Try them with calamansi for a citrusy kick.
6. Halo-Halo
A colorful dessert of crushed ice, sweet beans, fruits, jelly, and ice cream. It’s refreshing, chaotic, and absolutely Filipino. You’ll find it everywhere, from roadside stands to Jollibee.
7. Lumpia
Filipino spring rolls, either fried (lumpiang shanghai) or fresh (lumpiang sariwa). Crisp, savory, and addictive — they’re usually gone in seconds at any gathering.
8. Laing
A spicy coconut-milk dish made with dried taro leaves and chilies, originating from Bicol. Perfect for spice lovers.
9. Bicol Express
Another fiery dish from the Bicol region, made with pork simmered in coconut milk, shrimp paste, and chili peppers. Rich, creamy, and hot — just like Filipino hospitality.
10. Chicken Inasal
Grilled chicken marinated in calamansi, lemongrass, vinegar, and annatto oil. Originating from Bacolod, it’s smoky and tangy — best enjoyed with garlic rice and a cold beer.
Where to Try Authentic Filipino Food
- Manila: Check out Locavore or Manam Café for modern Filipino classics.
- Cebu: Try Rico’s Lechon or CNT Lechon for authentic roasted pork.
- Davao: Visit Yellow Fin Seafood Restaurant for fresh sinigang and grilled tuna.
Final Thoughts
Filipino cuisine is best experienced one dish at a time — shared with friends and family. It tells a story of Filipino culture, history, diversity, and connection. Whether you’re exploring a food market or sitting in a seaside eatery, each bite will make you feel a little more at home in the Philippines.
FAQs
Q1: Is Filipino food spicy?
Most dishes aren’t, but regions like Bicol are famous for their use of chili and coconut milk.
Q2: What’s the national dish of the Philippines?
There’s no official one, but adobo is considered the closest contender.
Q3: Can vegetarians enjoy Filipino cuisine?
Yes. Try laing, pinakbet, or adobong kangkong (water spinach adobo).
Q4: Where can expats find authentic Filipino food?
Almost every city in the Philippines has local eateries (carinderia). In tourist areas, many restaurants modernize Filipino classics for international tastes.
Q5: Are Filipino desserts very sweet?
Yes — desserts like halo-halo and leche flan are rich and sugar-forward, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
