In the bustling streets of Manila, the heart of the Philippines, a vibrant street food scene awaits, enticing locals and visitors alike. Street food holds a special place in Filipino culture, representing the rich tapestry of flavors and culinary traditions that define the nation. From sizzling skewers of meat to savory dishes and sweet treats, Manila’s street food is a gastronomic adventure that beckons food lovers from all corners of the globe.
In this captivating journey, you’ll discover eight must-try street food delights, each encapsulating the essence of Manila’s culinary landscape. Brace yourself for a thrilling expedition through the vibrant streets, where delectable flavors and unforgettable experiences await at every turn.
The Fascination with Filipino Street Food
The popularity of street foods in the Philippines is undeniable. In 2021, street food sales in the country reached a staggering $1.17 billion, reflecting the deep-rooted love for these culinary treasures. Street food stalls and vendors are ubiquitous in bustling markets, busy thoroughfares, and even neighborhood corners. The accessibility, affordability, and tantalizing aromas of street foods make them integral to Filipino daily life and social gatherings.
Numerous studies have been conducted to understand the significance of street food in Filipino culture. These studies reveal that street food is a source of nourishment and an expression of Filipino identity and heritage. It serves as a bridge between generations, preserving traditional recipes and cooking methods passed down through families for centuries.
Moreover, street food is a unifying force, bringing people from different walks of life together to savor these culinary delights. It creates a sense of community and camaraderie as locals and tourists gather around stalls, engaging in lively conversations while indulging in their favorite street food snacks.
Balut
Balut, a staple of Pinoy street food, is a unique and intriguing delicacy found in Manila’s vibrant food scene. With its partially formed duckling inside, this fertilized duck egg holds cultural significance. The experience of eating balut is a mix of anticipation and adventure as you crack the shell and savor the tender yolk and the flavorful broth. While initially daunting, balut has won over many food enthusiasts with its rich taste and creamy texture. Positive reviews and personal anecdotes often highlight the surprisingly delicious flavors, making balut a must-try for adventurous food lovers in Manila.
Isaw
Isaw, a beloved street food in Manila, is a grilled delicacy made from chicken or pork intestines. Its smoky aroma and tender texture make it a favorite among locals and tourists. Isaw is often enjoyed with various dipping sauces, such as vinegar or spicy soy sauce. Certain locations in Manila, like the famous street food haven of Quezon City’s UP Diliman, offer exceptional isaw. According to Taste Atlas, the Sarsa Kitchen + Bar in Makati and Isaw Haus in Taytay are particularly renowned for their delectable versions of this famous street food.
Fish Balls
Fish balls are a cherished street food delight made from ground fish meat. These bite-sized orbs are usually skewered on bamboo sticks and served in various ways, including deep-fried, boiled, or even steamed. Fish balls are accompanied by tangy vinegar or spicy sweet sauce and offer a burst of flavors and textures. Notable vendors and food stalls known for their scrumptious fish balls include those in their food carts, located in schools and food markets, and the iconic Mang Alex nearby St. Jude Catholic School in Manila, where they offer an array of delicious fish ball variations.
Halo-Halo
Halo-halo, a beloved Filipino dessert, is a refreshing concoction that combines shaved ice with an assortment of sweet ingredients. This delightful treat offers a symphony of flavors and textures in each spoonful. It typically includes ingredients like sweetened beans, jellies, fruits, leche flan, and a scoop of creamy ice cream. Popular halo-halo variations may include additional toppings like yam, coconut, or cereal. Highly recommended places to indulge in this tropical delight include Razon’s, Chowking, and Milky Way Café in Manila, serving up their unique and delicious versions of halo-halo.
Chicken Inasal
Chicken Inasal is a succulent grilled chicken dish marinated in a blend of local spices, giving it a distinct and savory flavor. The chicken is known for its tenderness and juiciness, with the outer skin boasting a delightful charred and slightly caramelized taste. Restaurants and food stalls renowned for their delicious Chicken Inasal include Mang Inasal, a popular chain found throughout the Philippines, and Bacolod Chicken Inasal, a well-known establishment in Manila that specializes in this mouthwatering dish.
Turon
Turon is a delightful treat by wrapping ripe bananas in spring roll pastry and frying until golden and crispy. The soft, sweet banana and crunchy pastry contrast creates a lovely texture. Turon is often served with a caramel or chocolate sauce drizzle, enhancing its already delectable flavor. Notable locations in Manila to savor this delicious snack include the bustling streets of Divisoria and Quiapo, where numerous street vendors offer freshly fried and mouthwatering turon.
Kwek-Kwek
Kwek-kwek is a crowd-pleasing Filipino street food consisting of quail eggs coated in a vibrant orange batter and deep-fried to perfection. It offers a satisfyingly crunchy texture with a burst of flavor from the eggs. Kwek-kwek is often enjoyed with a tangy vinegar dip, adding a delightful contrast to the fried goodness. Notable food stalls and vendors specializing in kwek-kwek include those in UP Diliman, Quezon City, and stands in Binondo, Manila, both renowned for their mouthwatering variations of this beloved street food.
Bibingka
Bibingka is a traditional Filipino rice cake that holds a special place in the hearts of Filipinos, particularly during the Christmas season. It is made with glutinous rice flour and coconut milk, resulting in a soft and fluffy texture. Bibingka is typically cooked in clay pots lined with banana leaves and topped with salted egg, grated coconut, and sometimes cheese. During Christmas, bibingka stalls can be found in various places in Manila, such as San Sebastian Church in Quiapo and the famous Via Mare restaurant, where they serve delicious and authentic bibingka.
Embark on a culinary adventure through Manila’s vibrant street food scene, where a world of flavors and cultural experiences awaits. From the sizzling skewers of Chicken Inasal to the crunchy goodness of Kwek-Kwek and the refreshing delight of Halo-Halo, these eight must-try street food delights capture the essence of Manila’s gastronomic treasures. Step into the bustling streets, indulge in the unique flavors and let the vibrant tapestry of Manila’s street food captivate your senses, revealing the true essence of this vibrant city.
