The Philippines is a treasure trove of delicious street foods that capture the heart and soul of its vibrant culture. Whether you’re wandering through the bustling streets of Manila or exploring the lively night markets of Cebu, the tantalizing aroma of local delicacies will draw you in. Each bite offers a taste of the Philippines’ diverse flavors, combining savory, sweet, and tangy notes. Here’s a guide to some of the best street foods you absolutely must try when visiting the country.
1. Balut
Balut is one of the most famous, albeit daring, street foods in the Philippines. It is a fertilized duck egg containing a partially developed embryo, boiled and eaten straight from the shell. Balut is typically seasoned with a pinch of salt, vinegar, or chili for added flavor. Despite its unusual appearance, it’s packed with rich, savory flavors.
Balut is considered a delicacy and is a great source of protein and calcium. Locals often enjoy it as a snack or a late-night treat. It’s also said to be an aphrodisiac. Eating balut is a cultural experience that symbolizes bravery for many visitors. If you’re feeling adventurous, this is your chance to immerse yourself in Filipino cuisine in the most authentic way possible.
2. Isaw
Isaw is a beloved Filipino street food made from grilled chicken or pork intestines. The intestines are thoroughly cleaned, boiled, and then marinated in a mix of spices before being skewered and grilled over hot coals. The result is a smoky, charred delicacy with a chewy texture.
Isaw is best enjoyed dipped in spiced vinegar or a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. This simple yet flavorful snack is a crowd favorite, especially among students and young professionals. Its affordability and irresistible aroma make it a staple in street food scenes across the country.
3. Kwek-Kwek
Kwek-kwek is a fun and colorful street food made of quail eggs coated in a bright orange batter, then deep-fried to crispy perfection. It is served with a variety of dipping sauces, including sweet, spicy, or vinegar-based options, which enhance the flavor of this bite-sized snack.
The vibrant orange hue of kwek-kwek often draws curious foodies. It’s a popular choice for people on the go, offering a quick and satisfying treat that’s easy to eat while exploring the city. Pair it with tokneneng, a similar dish made with chicken eggs, for an extra indulgence.
4. Taho
Taho is a sweet and comforting treat made from silken tofu, arnibal (caramelized sugar syrup), and sago pearls. Vendors carrying metal buckets roam the streets in the mornings, shouting “Taho!” to attract customers.
This warm snack is a nostalgic favorite for many Filipinos, offering a soft, creamy texture combined with the sweetness of syrup and the chewiness of sago. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast or a midday pick-me-up. The aroma of freshly steamed tofu and the sight of syrupy goodness is enough to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
5. Banana Cue and Kamote Cue
Banana cue and kamote cue are quintessential Filipino snacks made by deep-frying saba bananas or sweet potatoes coated in caramelized brown sugar. They’re skewered on sticks for easy handling and are a hit among locals and tourists alike.
The natural sweetness of saba bananas or kamote is elevated by the crunchy caramelized sugar coating. These snacks are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, whether you’re walking through a bustling market or relaxing by the beach. They are often enjoyed as an afternoon merienda (snack).
6. Fish Balls, Squid Balls, and Kikiam
This trio of deep-fried street foods is a staple in Filipino street food culture. Fish balls, squid balls, and kikiam are served on skewers and paired with a selection of dipping sauces, ranging from sweet to spicy to vinegary.
These snacks are loved for their versatility and affordability. Vendors often set up their carts in busy areas, and customers gather around to pick their favorite skewers. It’s a fun, interactive food experience that perfectly encapsulates the communal nature of Filipino street food.
7. Betamax
Betamax, named after its resemblance to old Betamax tapes, is grilled coagulated chicken or pork blood. The blood is shaped into rectangular blocks, skewered, and grilled over hot coals.
This unique delicacy offers a smoky, slightly metallic flavor that pairs well with spicy vinegar. While it might sound unusual to some, Betamax is a testament to the Filipino ability to make delicious food out of every part of an animal. It’s a must-try for those seeking a truly authentic and daring culinary adventure.
8. Turon
Turon is a sweet treat made by wrapping slices of saba bananas and sometimes jackfruit in a spring roll wrapper before deep-frying them with caramelized sugar. The result is a crispy, golden dessert with a soft, sweet interior.
Turon is a favorite among locals and is often sold in carinderias (small eateries) or by street vendors. Its simplicity and satisfying sweetness make it an ideal dessert or snack. Pair it with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for an extra special treat.
9. Dirty Ice Cream
Dirty ice cream is a term of endearment for the Filipino version of street ice cream. Made from coconut or carabao milk, it’s available in unique flavors like ube (purple yam), cheese, and mango. Vendors push colorful carts equipped with bells to signal their arrival.
Despite its name, dirty ice cream is safe to eat and beloved by generations of Filipinos. It’s an affordable way to cool down in the tropical heat while enjoying distinctly local flavors.
10. Manggang Hilaw (Green Mango)
Manggang hilaw is a tangy, refreshing street food made from slices of unripe mango served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) or salt. The combination of the mango’s sourness and the salty-sweet dip creates a bold flavor profile.
This simple yet delightful snack is perfect for hot days or as a palate cleanser between meals. The sharp tang of the green mango is a quintessential taste of the Philippines.
Final Thoughts
The street food scene in the Philippines offers more than just delicious snacks—it’s an experience that brings people together and provides insight into the country’s rich culture and history. Each dish tells a story of resourcefulness, creativity, and an unparalleled love for food. Whether you’re indulging in the sweetness of turon, braving the bold flavors of balut, or enjoying the simplicity of manggang hilaw, Filipino street food is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and your travel memories.
