Food is a major reason many people explore new destinations, so don't skip the chance to try local delicacies.
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Manila is around $31 (₱1756) per person, with previous travelers spending from $13 to $78. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Manila are as follows:
- Breakfast: $3 to $9
- Lunch: $5 to $13
- Dinner: $9 to $22
- Coffee: $3
- Fast Food or Street Food: $5
While Manila has plenty in the way of international restaurants, don't forget to try some of the local foods of the city. Chicken Adobo is a classic and famous Filipino dish, made of chicken marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and pepper, served alongside rice. Try it at The Aristocrat, located on the corner San Andres Street and Roxas Boulevard.
Another popular street snack is Balut, which is 17-day old duck embryo, which you can find at stalls on the street. Balut vendors come out at night and you can find many in the city center near San Roque Church. If you want to stay near the nightlife, walk around the intersection of Makati Avenue and Jupiter Street.
Kare Kare, which is oxtail stew made of oxtail, vegetables, onions, peanuts, and garlic, is another Filipino speciality. Visit Barrio Fiesta to try this, along with Crispy pata, deep-fried pork knuckles, and lumpiang ubod, which are palm hearts, shrimp and pork wrapped into a spring roll.
Save room for dessert! Halo Halo mixes shaved ice with evaporated milk and topped with agar jelly, sago, sweet beans, and fruit. Try it at Raxon's SM Manila or if you're on the go, stop into a Jollibee or Max's for a Halo Halo to go.
Last but not least, don't forget to the Philippines' world-renowned Tanduay Rhum, the most popular rum right after Bacardi.
Many hotels provide breakfast at no additional cost, while others charge extra. The quality and price can vary widely from hotel to hotel. Knowing this ahead of time can help you decide if you should budget more. You might find the hotel's buffet is a worthwhile investment, or perhaps a nearby bakery or cafe could be a cheaper alternative.
Bring your own water bottle instead of grabbing drinks on the fly. It's better for the environment as well.
Thinking about a tour? Check which meals are included beforehand. You might need to budget for some meals on your own, which can add to your expenses.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Manila. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Day Tour in Manilas History and Savor a Cultural Dinner for $175 details
- Manila Food Tour: Explore World's Oldest Chinatown for $65 details
- Manila Food Tour: Introduction to Philippine Street Food for $65 details