A Collection of Must-Try Dishes in the Philippines

Adobo — Braised Home-Cooked Dish with Vinegar and Soy Sauce is typically made with chicken or pork simmered in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices, served with rice.

Best for: A savory and tangy side dish, making it perfect for first-time Filipino food tasters.

How to enjoy: Check the type of meat and sauce concentration, and share it with plain rice.

Check before traveling: Be mindful of sodium in soy sauce and seasonings, and the type of meat used. Verify the operational status and local regulations on the official page just before departure.

Sinigang — Sour Soup Dish features a broth made sour with tamarind and includes pork, fish, shrimp, and vegetables.

Best for: Travelers who want to enjoy a refreshing soup with rice even on hot days.

How to enjoy: Ask about the type of protein and the strength of the sourness, then enjoy it with rice.

Check before traveling: Confirm any seafood allergies and the ingredients in the broth. Verify the operational status and local regulations on the official page just before departure.

Lechon — Whole Roast Pig for Celebrations is a festive dish where a whole pig is roasted, served with a crispy skin and moist meat.

Best for: Those wanting to experience the local celebration food culture with a group.

How to enjoy: Check if it’s sold in small quantities, the sauces available, and the portions served to share with other dishes.

Check before traveling: It can be high in fat and sodium, so be sure to check the storage conditions after purchase. Verify the operational status and local regulations on the official page just before departure.

Sisig — Sizzling Chopped Meat Dish is prepared with chopped pork sautéed with onions, citrus, and chili, served on a hot iron plate.

Best for: Perfect for sharing savory and nutty bar snacks among several people.

How to enjoy: Ask if you want egg or mayonnaise added, and inquire about the spiciness level before ordering.

Check before traveling: Be cautious of hot iron plates and the type of meat used, as well as any egg allergies. Verify the operational status and local regulations on the official page just before departure.

Kare-Kare — Thick Peanut-Flavored Stew is made by simmering meat and vegetables in a thick peanut-based sauce, served with fermented shrimp paste.

Best for: Those who enjoy rich stews and want to experience a new fermented seasoning.

How to enjoy: Ask for a small portion of bagoong on the side and check the types of meat and vegetables included.

Check before traveling: If you have allergies to peanuts or shellfish, be sure to avoid them or clearly check the ingredients. Verify the operational status and local regulations on the official page just before departure.

Pancit — Various Styles of Fried Noodles is enjoyed by stir-frying rice noodles or wheat noodles with meat, seafood, and vegetables, often featured in feasts and everyday meals.

Best for: Suitable for travelers looking for a familiar noodle dish to share with various foods.

How to enjoy: Check the types of noodles, such as Bihon or Canton, and toppings, serving with calamansi.

Check before traveling: Verify all soy sauce, seafood, and egg components, and the saltiness. Verify the operational status and local regulations on the official page just before departure.

Lumpia — Crispy or Fresh Filipino Rolls are snacks or side dishes made by wrapping meat and vegetables in thin wrappers and either frying or serving fresh.

Best for: Great for travelers wanting a simple snack or appetizers to share.

How to enjoy: Distinguish between fried and fresh lumpia and confirm the filling and sauces.

Check before traveling: Pay attention to the state of oil used and components like pork, peanuts, and seafood. Verify the operational status and local regulations on the official page just before departure.

Kinilaw — Ceviche-style Fish Dish is a coastal dish made with fresh fish marinated in vinegar, citrus, ginger, and chili.

Best for: Perfect for those who enjoy refreshing seafood dishes similar to ceviche.

How to enjoy: Confirm that the restaurant is fast-turnover with proper refrigeration of the fish used that day.

Check before traveling: Though the acid can eliminate many harmful elements from fish, hygiene and freshness are crucial. Verify the operational status and local regulations on the official page just before departure.

Bicol Express — Spicy Coconut Milk and Chili Stew features pork and chili simmered in thick coconut milk, a spicy dish from the Bicol region.

Best for: Perfect for travelers looking for a savory and spicy side dish.

How to enjoy: Ask about the level of spiciness and if shrimp paste is used, then enjoy it with rice.

Check before traveling: Be mindful of allergies to shellfish and check for high fat and sodium content. Verify the operational status and local regulations on the official page just before departure.

Halo-Halo — Dessert Mixing Ice and Toppings is a dessert made by mixing shaved ice with beans, fruits, jelly, ube, milk, and ice cream.

Best for: Perfect for those who want to enjoy various textures and sweet flavors on a hot day.

How to enjoy: Mix the toppings thoroughly and adjust quantities or remove ingredients as needed when ordering.

Check before traveling: Ensure to check for milk, egg, and nut ingredients and the hygiene of the ice. Verify the operational status and local regulations on the official page just before departure.