Immerse yourself in the vibrant and flavorful world of Manila’s street food scene. From savory to sweet, these street foods are not just meals but experiences that reflect the rich cultural tapestry of the Philippines. Offering a delightful array of tastes and textures, these 17 street foods are sure to leave a lasting impression on your palate.
1. Isaw (Grilled Chicken or Pork Intestines)
Isaw, a street food staple in the Philippines, is a testament to culinary creativity. Imagine skewers of marinated chicken or pork intestines grilled over an open flame. The smoky aroma is tantalizing, drawing you in from a distance. Its crispy exterior contrasts delightfully with the chewy texture inside. Often enjoyed with a side of spicy vinegar, this street delicacy embodies the spirit of Filipino barbecue. Loved by locals and adventurous tourists alike, Isaw is not just food, it’s an experience. Each bite tells a story of tradition and community gatherings over shared meals.
2. Balut (Fertilized Duck Egg)
Balut is an adventurous eat that challenges the limits of even the most daring foodies. This delicacy involves a fertilized duck egg, boiled to perfection and enjoyed while still warm. The experience begins with cracking open the egg and sipping its savory broth. As you peel away the shell, the developing embryo is revealed, complete with a distinct texture and rich flavor. Traditionally seasoned with salt and vinegar, Balut is a cultural icon in the Philippines. It’s a snack that sparks conversations and tests culinary courage. A must-try for the bold.
3. Kwek-Kwek (Deep-Fried Quail Eggs)
Kwek-Kwek bursts onto the scene with its eye-catching orange hue. These are quail eggs, hard-boiled, dipped in a vibrant orange batter, and deep-fried to golden perfection. The result is a crispy, crunchy exterior that gives way to a tender egg inside. A popular item at street vendors all over Manila, Kwek-Kwek is often served with a side of vinegar-based dipping sauce. Its unique appearance and addictive taste make it a favorite snack among locals. Whether you’re on a food adventure or a casual stroll, Kwek-Kwek is an irresistible choice.
4. Fish Balls
Fish Balls are a quintessential part of Manila’s street food scene. These bite-sized treats are made from fish paste, formed into balls, and deep-fried until golden and crispy. The magic happens when they’re skewered and paired with a selection of flavorful dipping sauces—sweet, spicy, or vinegar-based. Sold from pushcarts on busy streets, Fish Balls are a nostalgic favorite that evokes memories of childhood for many Filipinos. As you bite into one, you’ll experience a soft, savory interior that perfectly complements the crispy exterior. A timeless street snack.
5. Kikiam
Kikiam is a delightful fusion of flavors and cultures, inspired by Chinese cuisine and embraced by Filipinos. This street food consists of spiced ground meat, often wrapped in bean curd sheets, and deep-fried to perfection. Its savory and aromatic profile makes it a popular choice among street food enthusiasts. Served on a stick, Kikiam is often accompanied by a spicy sauce that enhances its rich flavors. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack or part of a street food smorgasbord, Kikiam offers a taste of Manila’s diverse culinary influences.
6. Banana Cue
Banana Cue is a beloved sweet treat that captures the essence of Filipino street food. This snack features saba bananas, a local variety known for its firm texture, skewered and deep-fried with a generous coating of caramelized brown sugar. The result is a crispy, sweet shell that envelops a soft, tender banana inside. Often enjoyed as an afternoon snack, Banana Cue is a nostalgic favorite that brings back memories of childhood. Its simple yet satisfying flavors make it a must-try for anyone exploring the vibrant streets of Manila.
7. Adidas (Grilled Chicken Feet)
Adidas, intriguingly named after the famous shoe brand, refers to grilled chicken feet. This street food offers a unique culinary experience that captivates the adventurous. Marinated and grilled over charcoal, these chicken feet boast a smoky, savory flavor that’s hard to resist. Often enjoyed with a cold beverage, Adidas is a social snack that brings people together. The combination of tender meat and crispy, charred skin creates a delightful contrast. For those willing to try something different, Adidas provides a flavorful journey into Manila’s street food culture.
8. Tokneneng
Tokneneng is the larger cousin of Kwek-Kwek, offering a bold and satisfying snack experience. This street food consists of chicken eggs, hard-boiled, coated in an orange batter, and deep-fried to crispy perfection. Each bite reveals a soft, savory egg enclosed within a crunchy shell. Paired with a spicy vinegar sauce, Tokneneng packs a flavorful punch that delights the senses. Ubiquitous in Manila’s bustling street markets, this snack is a colorful and tasty treat that attracts both locals and tourists alike. An essential part of the Filipino street food adventure.
9. Pandesal with Cheese or Ube
Pandesal, a Filipino breakfast staple, transforms into an on-the-go delight with creative fillings like cheese or ube (purple yam). This soft, fluffy bread roll is best enjoyed fresh from the vendor’s cart, often at the break of dawn. The warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread is irresistible, drawing in passersby. Filled with creamy cheese or sweet, vibrant ube, each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Pandesal is not just a snack; it’s a cherished part of Filipino culture and a must-try when exploring Manila.
10. Taho
Taho, a beloved morning treat, is a comforting embrace in a cup. This warm concoction consists of silken tofu, sweetened with a generous drizzle of arnibal (caramelized brown sugar syrup), and topped with chewy sago pearls. Street vendors roam the neighborhoods, calling out “Taho!” to announce their arrival. The soft, silky texture of the tofu, combined with the sweetness of the syrup and the chewiness of the sago, creates a delightful contrast. Taho is more than just food; it’s a heartwarming experience that starts many Filipinos’ day on a sweet note.
11. Chicharon Bulaklak
Chicharon Bulaklak is a guilty pleasure that tempts street food lovers with its crispy allure. Made from deep-fried pork mesentery, this snack is known for its incredibly crunchy texture and savory flavor. Often paired with a tangy vinegar dipping sauce, Chicharon Bulaklak offers a satisfying and addictive crunch in every bite. This indulgence is perfect for those who appreciate bold, hearty flavors. As you explore Manila’s vibrant streets, it’s hard to resist the tantalizing aroma of this porky treat wafting through the air. A must-try for the adventurous eater.
12. Longganisa in a Bun
Longganisa, the Filipino-style sausage, becomes a portable delight when served in a bun. Known for its sweet and garlicky flavor, Longganisa is a breakfast staple that’s been reimagined as street food. Imagine biting into a soft bun filled with juicy sausage, complemented by fresh toppings like lettuce and tomato. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying meal on the go. This adaptation of a classic Filipino dish showcases the creativity and innovation found in Manila’s street food scene. A delicious way to enjoy a taste of the Philippines.
13. Sinangag with Toppings
Sinangag, or garlic fried rice, serves as a flavorful canvas for various toppings, creating a satisfying and customizable meal. This popular street food is often topped with fried egg, tapa (cured beef), or tocino (sweet pork), transforming it into a hearty bowl of comfort. The aromatic garlic-infused rice pairs beautifully with the savory, sweet, or salty toppings, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. Sinangag with toppings is a testament to Manila’s diverse culinary landscape, where traditional dishes are reimagined with a modern twist. A true street food delight.
14. Inihaw na Pusit (Grilled Squid)
Inihaw na Pusit brings the flavors of the sea to the streets of Manila. This exquisite street food features whole squid, marinated and grilled over charcoal, often stuffed with tomatoes and onions. The result is a smoky, tender, and flavorful dish that captivates seafood lovers. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures, from the chewy squid to the juicy stuffing. As the aroma of grilled squid fills the air, it’s hard to resist stopping by a street vendor to indulge in this seafood delight. A must-try for any adventurous palate.
15. Mais (Boiled or Grilled Corn with Cheese and Butter)
Mais, or corn on the cob, is a simple yet satisfying street food that offers a comforting taste of home. Whether boiled or grilled, the corn is served hot, slathered in margarine, and sprinkled with cheese powder or salt. This combination creates a buttery, salty flavor that is both nostalgic and delightful. Sold from street carts throughout Manila, Mais is a popular snack that appeals to all ages. Its warmth and simplicity make it a perfect companion for a leisurely stroll through the city’s bustling streets. A timeless favorite.
16. Pickled Papaya (Atchara) with Fried Foods
Atchara, or pickled papaya, is a refreshing accompaniment to Manila’s rich street foods. This tangy and slightly sweet relish is made from green papaya, carrots, and bell peppers, pickled in vinegar and spices. Often served alongside fried foods, Atchara provides a bright, crunchy contrast that balances out the richness. Its vibrant colors and zesty flavor elevate any meal, making it a cherished addition to Filipino cuisine. As you enjoy the diverse offerings of Manila’s street food scene, Atchara stands out as an essential and delightful side dish.
