Manila Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Manila. Your complete guide to dining in Manila.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Manila! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Manila has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Manila's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Manila like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Manila offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Manila.
Harbor View Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Manila with 4.5 stars from 2865 reviews.
📍 South Dr, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sky Deck
Highly rated Bar in Manila with 4.5 stars from 1382 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 HXRH+2G3 The Bayleaf, Muralla St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
The Aristocrat Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Manila with 4.2 stars from 4338 reviews.
📍 432, 1004 San Andres St, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Blackbird Makati
Highly rated Bar in Manila with 4.6 stars from 2042 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 6752 1229 Makati Ave, Makati City, 1229 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Ilustrado Restaurant
Highly rated Cafe in Manila with 4.5 stars from 1925 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 744 Cabildo Street, corner Recoletos St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Steak & Frice
Highly rated Steakhouse in Manila with 4.8 stars from 2779 reviews.
📍 Unit NW-LG003A, LGF Central Square, 30th St, Bonifacio High Street Central, cor 5th Ave, Taguig, 1214 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Steakhouse cuisine
Cowboy Grill Mabini
Highly rated Restaurant in Manila with 4.3 stars from 1442 reviews.
📍 11910 Mabini, cor Arquiza St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Cafe Ilang-Ilang
Highly rated Restaurant in Manila with 4.6 stars from 1300 reviews.
📍 Manila Hotel, 1 Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila, 0913 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
Manam | Robinsons Place
Highly rated Restaurant in Manila with 4.8 stars from 2331 reviews.
📍 L1, Midtown Wing Robinsons Place, Pedro Gil St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
EMILIA, House of Filipino Food
Highly rated Restaurant in Manila with 4.6 stars from 690 reviews.
📍 934 Gen. Solano St, San Miguel, Manila, 1005 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Old Manila at The Peninsula Manila
Highly rated Restaurant in Manila with 4.4 stars from 982 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
📍 The Peninsula Manila Corner of Ayala and Makati Avenues Ground Level Makati, Makati City, 1226 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Barbara's Heritage Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Manila with 4.3 stars from 1346 reviews.
📍 Plaza San Luis Complex, General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Manila.
QUINTA Market
Highly rated International in Manila with 4.2 stars from 3129 reviews.
📍 Carlos Palanca, Quiapo, Manila, 1001 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Salcedo Weekend Market
Highly rated International in Manila with 4.5 stars from 3348 reviews.
📍 Jaime C. Velasquez Park, H26F+56Q Salcedo Village, Tordesillas St. Cor Toledo St., Salcedo Village, Makati, 1227 Kalakhang Maynila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Tutuban Night Market
Highly rated International in Manila with 4.2 stars from 1510 reviews.
📍 JX5F+M7Q, Bonifacio Dr, Tondo, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Greenfield Weekend Market
Highly rated International in Manila with 4.5 stars from 436 reviews.
📍 Greenfield District Central Park, Mayflower St, Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Legazpi Sunday Market
Highly rated International in Manila with 4.4 stars from 2050 reviews.
📍 Legazpi Street, Village, Makati, Kalakhang Maynila, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Paco Market
Highly rated International in Manila with 3.9 stars from 1048 reviews.
📍 Stall 14, Paco, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Food Market Manila
Highly rated Restaurant in Manila with 4 stars from 182 reviews.
📍 4th Avenue, Unit 3, Commerce Center Bldg, Corner 31st Street, Taguig, Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Ugbo Street Food Shops and Takeaways
Highly rated Restaurant in Manila with 4.3 stars from 1413 reviews.
📍 JXF7+9M5, Tondo, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Manila.
Abraham Tours Manila
Highly rated International in Manila with 4.9 stars from 198 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Lindela Travel and Tours
Highly rated International in Manila with 4.9 stars from 2584 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Fort Santiago
Highly rated International in Manila with 4.5 stars from 11971 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Guide to the Philippines
Highly rated International in Manila with 4.7 stars from 285 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Gladex Travel And Tours
Highly rated International in Manila with 4.8 stars from 1091 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Bambike Ecotours Intramuros
Highly rated International in Manila with 4.7 stars from 672 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Manila.
Café Y Ruedas
Highly rated Cafe in Manila with 4.7 stars from 554 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Victoria St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
MANILA CAFE BISTRO
Highly rated Cafe in Manila with 4.7 stars from 252 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Anie's Place, 1015 Padre Noval St, Sampaloc, Manila, 1008 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
The Den
Highly rated Cafe in Manila with 4.7 stars from 210 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 HUB Make Lab, First United Building, 413 Escolta St, Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
1919 Grand Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Manila with 4.5 stars from 1273 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 117 Juan Luna St, Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Papakape Fort Santiago
Highly rated Cafe in Manila with 4.5 stars from 126 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Fort Santiago, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Commune Café + Bar + Roastery
Highly rated Cafe in Manila with 4.4 stars from 1435 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 36 Polaris, Poblacion, Makati City, 1210 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Nomu Cafe UST Dapitan
Highly rated Cafe in Manila with 4.9 stars from 539 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1200 Lacson Ave, Corner Dapitan St, Sampaloc, Manila, 1015 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
The Curator Coffee & Cocktails
Highly rated Cafe in Manila with 4.5 stars from 822 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 134 Legazpi Street, Makati, Kalakhang Maynila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Manila.
Signature Dish
A must-try Manila specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Manila dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Manila with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Manila specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Manila creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Manila classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Manila specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Manila dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Manila with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Manila specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Manila.
The Fun Roof
Highly rated Bar in Manila with 4.8 stars from 1643 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 4f, Matheus Bldg, 5382 General Luna, Makati City, 1210 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Sky Deck
Highly rated Bar in Manila with 4.5 stars from 1382 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 HXRH+2G3 The Bayleaf, Muralla St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Secret Door
Highly rated Bar in Manila with 4.4 stars from 423 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 8456 Doña Carmen St, Corner Kalayaan Ave, Makati City, 1210 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Monarch Manila
Highly rated Bar in Manila with 4.9 stars from 477 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 100 C Don Carlos Palanca, Legazpi Village, Makati, 1229 Kalakhang Maynila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Mansion Sports Bar and Lounge (now Monarch Manila)
Highly rated Bar in Manila with 4.8 stars from 1122 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 100, Don Carlos Palanca, Makati, 1229 Kalakhang Maynila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
O2 Rooftop Bar
Highly rated Bar in Manila with 4.7 stars from 1088 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 27th floor Penthouse D2 Residence Bonifacio Civic Center Tower, 6 McKinley Pkwy, Taguig, 1634 Metro Manila, Philippines
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Manila's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Manila vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Manila is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Manila offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Manila specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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