9 Food Hubs Around Metro Manila

Known as the world's oldest Chinatown, Binondo has become a popular hotspot for both tourists and locals. It's famous for authentic Chinese food, plenty of which have become bona fide institutions due to their longevity. Head over to Sincerity to try their famous fried chicken, Ling Nam for some flavourful beef wonton noodles, or Tasty Dumplings for their—you guessed it—tasty dumplings. Those curious can also head on to Toho Panciteria Antigua, a noodle shop established in 1888 that's still operating along Tomas Pinpin Street today. 

A tourist hotspot and a hangout place for friends around San Juan and Mandaluyong, Greenhills is best known for its versatility. Whatever the craving and with whatever the budget, Greenhills is sure to satisfy. There are high-end hotspots around Promenade and Connecticut; places like Cowrie Grill, Gloria Maris, and Xiu Fine Dining. Meanwhile, casual eateries such as Manam, Carousel, Vito's Barbeque, and Feta can be found along N Western Street, Connecticut, and even in Annapolis. Lastly, those looking for more budget-friendly eats or snacks can head over to Shoppesville, where Tropical Hut, Le Ching, and even the nostalgic House of Mini's can be found. Plenty of options for shoppers and moviegoers alike!

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Unsure of where to go for family dinner? Tomas Morato is your best bet. This famous foodie avenue is known for housing both nostalgic restaurants and new eateries. A mix of the two can be found in every corner, from Dulcinea and Mario's (whose legacy now spans 50 years). Newer concepts such as the brick-and-mortar store of the Instagram-famous Aegyo Cakes is also located within this Quezon City hotspot. Lastly, don't forget to venture out to the Scout streets too—found adjacent to Tomas Morato Street, this area is famous for both hole-in-the-wall cafes and popular restaurants such as Cafe Romulo and Soru Izakaya. 

Craving for Asian food? Banawe is a melting pot of international flavours! There's a thriving Chinese community that calls Banawe home, which explains why plenty of the restaurants here are centred around familiar flavours. The viral Chinese hotpot restaurant, Jiang Nan, has a branch located within the area. But if you're hankering for something else, there are plenty of other options: take a sip of delicious pho broth at the Vietnamese restaurant Tra Vinh, or indulge in Singaporean street food faves at Bugis. Hong Kong roast duck is best served in Tuen Mun, while those seeking casual Taiwanese fare can drop by Ersao. 

Katipunan students have made Maginhawa their second home. Filled with artsy, indie, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, Maginhawa is most favoured by those seeking casual and affordable meals. But make no mistake, there's plenty of creativity in the way food in Maginhawa is handled. Speciality restaurants and dessert shops have mastered their craft: from Papa Diddi's delicious artisan ice cream to Wadough's colourful cupcakes and of course, Caution Hot!'s special spicy noodles. 

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There's plenty of diversity along Kapitolyo in Pasig. Known as a major food hub, it houses everything under the sun that one might crave for. There are dessert shops such as Tilde Bakery (originally from Poblacion) and the much beloved Lia's Cakes in Season, best known for their avocado cake. Authentic cuisine from all over the world is also easily accessible. A favourite of many, Silantro, serves signature Mexican dishes at their Kapitolyo branch. Warung provides an authentic Indonesian dining experience for those who are curious. Ricksha's Streetside Tandoor makes amazing Indian food, while Locavore creates hearty Filipino fare. 

Culinary innovators seem to flock to BF Homes. Sensei for example is a Japanese restaurant by the acclaimed chef Bruce Ricketts, which draws curious diners to the area. Bamba Bistro by chef Tina Legarda is another Aguirre Avenue favourite, loved for their take on European dishes made with Filipino flair. While there, also check out La Chinesca, and Masa Bakehouse too. Needless to say, BF Homes is best known not just for lively bars, but for straightforward dining as well. 

If you're looking for luxurious dining experiences, head on over to Chino Roces, formerly known as Pasong Tamo. Here, one can find more than a handful of high-end dining experiences and tasting menus—perfect for special occasions and celebrations. There's Metiz by chef Stephan Duhesme, known for re-imagined Filipino cuisine, Toyo, of chef Jordy Navarra, celebrated for their creative usage of local ingredients, M Dining + Bar, where we often find ourselves when craving perfectly prepared East meets West fare by chef Tom Bascon, and Txanton, a favourite jamoneria (with delicious mains too), plus wines to boot. 

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