The Philippines is famous for its colorful street food scene — smoky grills, sizzling pans, and the scent of garlic and vinegar filling the air. For expats and travelers, it’s one of the best ways to experience authentic Filipino life. But with so many Filipino street food options, it’s important to know what’s both safe and delicious.
Top Street Foods You Must Try
1. Isaw (Grilled Chicken Intestines)
A local favorite, isaw is cleaned, boiled, and grilled to perfection, then dipped in vinegar or sweet sauce. It’s smoky, savory, and surprisingly addicting.
Tip: Always buy from vendors with steady customer flow — that’s a good sign the food is fresh.
2. Kwek-Kwek
Bright orange quail eggs coated in batter and deep-fried. Served with spicy vinegar or sweet sauce, they’re a quick and tasty snack you’ll find near schools or city corners.
3. Fish Balls and Squid Balls
These are classic Filipino street snacks — lightly fried and served on a stick. Choose your own sauce (sweet, spicy, or garlic vinegar) and enjoy.
Safety Tip: Avoid sauce containers that look reused or overly murky.
4. Balut
The most talked-about Filipino delicacy — a fertilized duck egg with a partially developed embryo. Usually eaten with salt and vinegar, balut is said to be rich in protein and stamina.
Expats Tip: Try it at least once! Many vendors near Manila Bay or Cebu’s night markets serve it freshly boiled.
5. Banana Cue
Caramelized bananas on a stick coated in brown sugar. It’s sweet, filling, and one of the safer street treats since it’s fried at high heat.
6. Taho
A morning favorite made of warm tofu, brown sugar syrup (arnibal), and sago pearls. Vendors carry it in aluminum buckets shouting, “Tahooo!” — a nostalgic sound for every Filipino.
7. Betamax and Adidas
Don’t let the names fool you. Betamax is grilled coagulated pork blood (cut into squares like old videotapes), and Adidas refers to grilled chicken feet. They’re flavorful and loved by locals.
8. Sweet Corn and Turon
Turon is fried banana with jackfruit wrapped in a lumpia wrapper and coated in caramelized sugar. Pair it with freshly boiled sweet corn for a delicious, safe snack combo.
Street Food Safety Tips for Expats
- Choose vendors with clean carts and busy lines.
- Avoid food that’s been sitting too long or looks reheated.
- Watch food being cooked in front of you.
- Stick to fried or boiled items — heat kills most bacteria.
- Always carry hand sanitizer or wipes.
- Avoid communal sauces; ask for your own dip or bring your own vinegar packet.
Where to Try the Best Street Food
- Manila: Try Mercato Centrale (BGC) and Divisoria night stalls.
- Cebu: Visit Larsian BBQ near Fuente Osmeña.
- Davao: Check out Roxas Night Market for a variety of safe, budget-friendly eats.
Final Thoughts
Street food in the Philippines is more than just a meal — it’s a window into local culture and community. With a little caution and curiosity, expats and travelers can safely enjoy some of the most flavorful bites in the Philippines.
FAQs
Q1: Is street food in the Philippines safe for foreigners?
Yes, if you choose vendors who cook fresh food in front of you and maintain clean carts. Avoid stalls with long-stored food.
Q2: What’s the most popular street food in the Philippines?
Isaw and fish balls top the list, followed by balut for the adventurous.
Q3: Can vegetarians eat Filipino street food?
Options are limited, but banana cue, turon, and sweet corn are vegetarian-friendly.
Q4: How much does street food cost?
Most snacks cost between ₱10 to ₱50 (less than $1).
Q5: Are sauces safe to use?
Use caution. Avoid communal sauces — it’s best to request a fresh cup or bring your own dip.
