Cheap Eats in Manila

Find cheap eats in Manila, from casual local favorites to budget-friendly meals that keep daily spend under control.

ByFun Around Me Team
3 min read

Food can swing your daily budget quickly in Manila. This guide pulls together affordable places and meal strategies so you can eat well without overspending.

Key Takeaways

  • Budget-friendly places to eat in Manila
  • Meal types and neighborhoods that give better value
  • How to combine cheap eats with other low-cost trip choices

Cheap Eats

Eating well in Manila doesn't mean spending a fortune. These budget-friendly restaurants, food trucks, and local eateries serve delicious meals at prices that won't break the bank.

The Aristocrat Restaurant

Delicious and affordable, this eatery serves filling meals at budget-friendly prices without compromising on taste or quality.

432, 1004 San Andres St, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila, Philippines

Ying Ying Tea House

Delicious and affordable, this eatery serves filling meals at budget-friendly prices without compromising on taste or quality.

233-235 Yuchengco St, Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila, Philippines

Wai Ying Fast Food

Delicious and affordable, this eatery serves filling meals at budget-friendly prices without compromising on taste or quality.

810 Benavidez St, Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila, Philippines

Goto Monster Comuna

Delicious and affordable, this eatery serves filling meals at budget-friendly prices without compromising on taste or quality.

Mezzanine Floor, Comuna Building, 238 Pablo Ocampo Sr. Ext, San Antonio Village, Makati City, 1204 Metro Manila, Philippines

Manam | Robinsons Place

Delicious and affordable, this eatery serves filling meals at budget-friendly prices without compromising on taste or quality.

L1, Midtown Wing Robinsons Place, Pedro Gil St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines

Gab's Good Grub

Delicious and affordable, this eatery serves filling meals at budget-friendly prices without compromising on taste or quality.

H28M+Q6M, A. Mabini St, Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines

Hummus Elijah

Delicious and affordable, this eatery serves filling meals at budget-friendly prices without compromising on taste or quality.

G/F, 5059 P Burgos St, Makati City, 1209 Metro Manila, Philippines

Ristorante delle Mitre

Delicious and affordable, this eatery serves filling meals at budget-friendly prices without compromising on taste or quality.

Opposite San Agustin Church, Real St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines

Free Things to Do

Manila offers numerous free attractions and activities that showcase the best of the destination without costing a penny. From parks and museums to walking tours and festivals, you can fill your itinerary with memorable experiences on a zero budget.

Free Walking Tour

Enjoy this completely free activity in Manila, perfect for budget travelers looking to experience local culture without spending money.

Cost: Free

Public Park Visit

This free attraction in Manila offers great value, allowing you to explore and enjoy without any admission fees.

Cost: Free

Beach Access

Experience Manila on a budget with this free activity, ideal for travelers watching their spending.

Cost: Free

Historic District Walk

No cost to enjoy this Manila experience, making it perfect for budget-conscious visitors.

Cost: Free

Budget Accommodation

Finding affordable places to stay in Manila is easier than you think. These budget-friendly options offer clean, comfortable rooms in convenient locations.

BuenaSentro Hostel

Clean and affordable accommodation, perfect for budget travelers and backpackers looking for comfortable stays at great prices.

2152 Vangrunao, San Andres Bukid, Manila, 1017 Metro Manila, Philippines

Astrotel Divisoria

Clean and affordable accommodation, perfect for budget travelers and backpackers looking for comfortable stays at great prices.

Recto Ave, San Nicolas, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila, Philippines

Makati Junction Hostel

Clean and affordable accommodation, perfect for budget travelers and backpackers looking for comfortable stays at great prices.

Junction Hostels, Don Pedro, Poblacion, Makati, 1210 Kalakhang Maynila, Philippines

OYO 937 Loveness Apartelle

Clean and affordable accommodation, perfect for budget travelers and backpackers looking for comfortable stays at great prices.

94, Multi-Purpose Hall, R. Layug Street Barangay 2, Zone 1, District 1, Pasay Southern Manila, Pasay City, 1307 Metro Manila, Philippines

8 HOSTEL

Clean and affordable accommodation, perfect for budget travelers and backpackers looking for comfortable stays at great prices.

Isabelle de Hidalgo, Condominium, 986 R. Hidalgo St, Quiapo, Manila, 1001 Metro Manila, Philippines

Z Hostel

Clean and affordable accommodation, perfect for budget travelers and backpackers looking for comfortable stays at great prices.

5660 Don Pedro, Makati, Makati City, 1209 Metro Manila, Philippines

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit budget travel in Manila varies by location. Weekday afternoons typically offer a more relaxed experience, while weekends bring a lively atmosphere. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for shorter wait times.

Average Price

Prices range from $10-50 depending on the location and offerings. Budget-friendly options are available, as well as premium experiences for special occasions.

Parking Tips

Street parking is available near most locations, though it can be limited during peak hours. Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services in busy areas. Some establishments offer validated parking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Start with the restaurants and food spots listed above, then prioritize lunch deals, local markets, and casual neighborhood places over tourist-core dining.

That depends on your dining style, but budget travelers usually save most by mixing one sit-down meal with quick local spots and grocery stops.

Yes. In many destinations, some of the best-value meals come from simple local spots rather than formal restaurants.

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