Filipino cuisine is a vibrant and flavorful mix of Spanish, Chinese, and Malay culinary influences, with a unique tropical twist that makes street food in the Philippines a must-try experience. Here are some of the top Filipino street foods that you should not miss:
Balut: Perhaps the most infamous Filipino street food, balut is a fertilized duck egg with a nearly-developed embryo inside. It’s boiled and eaten from the shell. Balut is known for its rich flavors and is believed to be an aphrodisiac.
Isaw: These are skewered chicken intestines that are cleaned, turned inside out, marinated, and grilled over hot coals. Isaw is often dipped in vinegar with onions, pepper, and sometimes chili for an extra kick.
Taho: A sweet and warm treat made from fresh soft/silken tofu, arnibal (a brown sugar syrup), and sago pearls (similar to tapioca pearls). This is typically served in a cup and eaten with a spoon.
Adobo Mani (Roasted Peanuts): Often sold in small paper bags by street vendors, these are roasted peanuts coated in garlic and salt, making for a crunchy, savory snack.
Manggang Hilaw (Green Mangoes): Sliced green mangoes served with bagoong (shrimp paste), salt, or sugar. It’s a perfect blend of sour and salty, offering a real taste of Filipino flavor.
Kwek-Kwek: Deep-fried quail eggs covered in an orange batter, typically served with a spicy vinegar dip or a sweet and spicy sauce known as “manong’s sauce.”
Fish Balls: These are skewered fish balls that are deep-fried and then dipped in a variety of sauces, from sweet, sour, to spicy.
Halo-Halo: Although more of a dessert than a street food, halo-halo is a popular treat especially during the hot summer months. It’s a mix of crushed ice, evaporated milk, and various ingredients like coconut strips, boiled sweet beans, sago, and fruits, topped with ice cream or leche flan.
Banana Cue: Skewered deep-fried bananas coated in caramelized brown sugar. It’s one of the simplest yet most beloved street foods in the Philippines.
Lechon Manok: While not exactly a street food, you can often find lechon manok (roasted chicken) at street corners. It’s marinated and then cooked on a rotisserie, making it incredibly flavorful and juicy.
These street foods not only offer a taste of the Philippines’ culinary diversity but are also a window into the country’s rich culture and the everyday life of its people. Whether you’re seeking a quick snack or a unique gastronomic experience, Filipino street food has something to surprise and delight every palate.