Filipino food is having a global moment — and once you live here, it’s easy to see why. It’s hearty, deeply flavorful, and built around sharing. If you’re new to the Philippines, here are the dishes to seek out first.
Filipino cuisine blends Malay, Spanish, Chinese, and American influences into something entirely its own. Expect bold, savory, often tangy flavors — and rice with absolutely everything.
The best way to explore is at a local carinderia (turo-turo eatery), where you point at what looks good. It’s cheap, authentic, and how most Filipinos actually eat.
The must-try list
- Adobo — the unofficial national dish; meat braised in soy, vinegar, and garlic.
- Sinigang — a sour tamarind soup that’s pure comfort.
- Lechon — whole roast pig with impossibly crispy skin.
- Kare-Kare — oxtail in a rich peanut sauce.
- Sisig — sizzling chopped pork, the perfect beer food.
- Pancit — stir-fried noodles, a fiesta staple.
- Lumpia — Filipino spring rolls.
- Halo-Halo — the iconic shaved-ice dessert.
- Bicol Express — pork in coconut milk and chilies.
- Tinola — ginger chicken soup.
- Crispy Pata — deep-fried pork knuckle.
- Taho — warm soft tofu with syrup, sold by street vendors each morning.
Cooking it yourself
Most of these are easy to make at home once your kitchen is stocked — and the ingredients are cheap and everywhere. A rice cooker and a few basics will get you surprisingly far.
Come hungry and stay curious. Filipino food rewards the adventurous, and sharing a meal is the fastest way into the culture.