If you are a foodie looking for something new and exciting to try, then you will want to check out the street foods in Philippines!
The country is known for its vibrant culture and unique cuisine; its street food offerings are no exception.
From savory to sweet, there is something for everyone to enjoy. In this guide, we will explore the variety of delicious street foods in Philippines and provide tips on where to find them.
So get ready to experience all the flavors and textures the Philippines offers!
1. Proben
Proben is the starter of this list of street foods in Philippines. It is made from deep-fried pork belly, chicken liver, and other offal parts mixed with onions and spices.
The mix is then served with a sweet chili sauce or vinegar for dipping. Proben is a popular snack among locals and tourists alike, providing a satisfying crunch with a unique flavor.
Proben can be found at almost any street food stall in the Philippines. It is best enjoyed fresh, hot off the frying pan, but it can also be bought pre-cooked and vacuum-packed in supermarkets.
This makes it an ideal snack to bring back home as a souvenir or a snack to have on the go. However you choose to enjoy proben, it is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its unique and flavorful blend of spices.
2. Kwek Kwek
Kwek Kwek is one of the popular street foods in Philippines, made from quail eggs that are hard-boiled, coated with an orange batter, and then deep-fried.
This tasty snack is usually served with a dipping sauce such as spicy vinegar or sweet and sour sauce. It can also be enjoyed on its own.
The batter for Kwek Kwek is typically made from flour, water, red food coloring, and some spices. The quail eggs are boiled and then dipped into the batter before being deep-fried in hot oil.
This preparation method allows the batter to cover the entire egg while maintaining a crispy texture.
Kwek Kwek is an inexpensive snack that can be found at street side stands all over the Philippines. If you’re looking for a quick and delicious bite, Kwek Kwek, one of the very delicious street foods in Philippines, is definitely worth trying!
3. Lumpiang Shanghai
Lumpiang Shanghai is also one of the most popular street foods in Philippines. This Filipino dish consists of ground pork, carrots, and onions that are wrapped in thin spring roll wrappers and deep-fried until golden and crisp.
The Lumpiang Shanghai is typically served with a sweet, tangy dipping sauce made of vinegar and garlic.
The dish is believed to have originated from Chinese immigrants who came to the Philippines many centuries ago.
It has since become a favorite among Filipinos of all ages and is commonly served as an appetizer or as part of a meal.
The best part about Lumpiang Shanghai is that it can be easily prepared at home by using store-bought spring roll wrappers and filling them with your favorite ingredients.
So, if you’re looking for a delicious street food experience in the Philippines, don’t forget to try Lumpiang Shanghai!
4. Fish Balls
Fish balls are delectable street foods in Philippines, with vendors serving them all over the country.
Fish balls are usually made from fish meat and flour, sometimes with spices or seasonings added in. They can be served plain or as part of a dish, such as a noodle soup or a stir-fry.
The texture of the fish balls is similar to that of dumplings, but they are typically much smaller.
Fish balls are usually sold on the streets by small vendors who fry them up and serve them with various dipping sauces or spices.
The most common dipping sauce for fish balls is a sweet and sour sauce made from vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar.
Many vendors also offer an array of other sauces and seasonings to customize the flavor of your fish balls.
Whatever you choose, these tasty little morsels of street foods in the Philippines will satisfy your cravings!
5. Squid Balls
Squid balls are not left from the list of popular street foods in Philippines. Usually served as small fried balls, these delicious morsels are made with a combination of flour, squid, and seasonings.
Many of the seasonings can vary, but some of the most common include garlic, onions, black pepper, and chili peppers.
A popular dish variation is adding a sweet glaze or dipping sauce made from soy sauce and sugar.
Squid balls can be found at many street stalls throughout the Philippines and often come with sweet chili sauce for dipping.
They are an ideal snack for those looking for something tasty and unique. As an added bonus, squid is an excellent source of protein and provides many essential vitamins and minerals.
So if you’re looking for something different to try in the Philippines, give squid balls a try!
6. Kikiam
Kikiam is a popular street food in the Philippines, especially in the cities of Manila, Quezon City, and Cebu.
It is made from a mixture of ground pork, garlic, and spices that are wrapped in a bean curd wrapper and fried.
Kikiam is often served as an appetizer or snack, with a sweet and sour dipping sauce, and can be found at most street vendors.
Kikiam, one of the delicious street foods in Philippines, is an incredibly flavorful and filling snack.
The pork mixture inside the bean curd wrapper is full of bold flavors, with hints of garlic and spice that provide an amazing depth of flavor.
The sweet and sour dipping sauce gives it an extra kick of flavor and makes it even more enjoyable to eat. If you’re looking for a delicious snack while traveling in the Philippines, be sure to try kikiam!
7. Empanada
Empanada is likewise one of the beloved street foods in Philippines, and it can be found in almost every corner of the country.
This savory snack is usually made with a combination of meats, cheese, and vegetables that are all wrapped inside a crispy, flaky crust. It is then deep-fried to perfection, giving it an irresistible crunchy texture.
Empanada comes in many varieties, each offering its own unique flavor. Some popular fillings include ground beef, chorizo, pork, potatoes, and cheese.
Empanada, one of the best street foods in Philippines, makes for a perfect snack or light meal on the go.
They are commonly sold by street vendors, who may offer various flavors and combinations. For those looking for something a little sweeter, dessert empanadas feature sweet fillings such as mangoes, apples, and Nutella.
No matter which type you choose, you can be sure that you’re getting a delicious treat that’s perfect for a quick bite!
8. Chicharon Bulaklak
Chicharon Bulaklak is a popular street food in the Philippines. It is made from deep-fried pig intestines that are served with a sweet and sour sauce.
The dish is often served as an appetizer or snack and can be found at most street stalls or food kiosks throughout the country.
This crunchy dish is also eaten with other Filipino favorites such as kare-kare, sinigang, and lumpia. It is a great way to enjoy the flavor of the Philippines while experiencing local culture.
Chicharon Bulaklak is one of the tasty and affordable street foods in Philippines you can use to enjoy a unique part of Filipino cuisine.
9. Cascaron/Bitsu-Bitsu
Cascaron, or Bitsu-Bitsu as it is known in this beautiful country, is one of the most popular street foods in Philippines.
It is a savory snack made of deep-fried flour, sugar, and pork rinds. The mixture combines onion, garlic, chili, and other spices to make a savory treat. Cascaron can be found in almost all street vendors throughout the Philippines.
This delicious snack is not only a favorite among Filipinos but also among tourists who visit the country. Cascaron can be served as an appetizer or a light meal on its own.
It is also a great way to add flavor and texture to any meal. Cascaron is sure to be a hit with both locals and travelers alike!
10. Ukoy/ Okoy
Ukoy, also known as okoy, is one of the most popular and delicious street foods in Philippines.
It is a fritter made from shredded vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and onions mixed with shrimp and bound together by a flour or cornstarch batter.
This delicious snack is deep-fried in hot oil until golden brown and served with a dipping sauce.
Ukoy is a great way to get your fill of vegetables and protein while on the go. The combination of crunchy vegetables, juicy shrimp, and a savory dipping sauce make ukoy an irresistible snack.
Not only is it delicious, but it is also relatively healthy, as the deep-frying process allows for a lot of the fat to be cooked off.
So, if you’re looking for tasty street food that won’t derail your diet, give ukoy a try!
11. One Day Old – Fried Baby Chicken
Fried baby chicken, or one-day-old as it is known in the Philippines, is a beloved street food delicacy. It’s easy to spot in the streets of Manila, where it’s served up in sizzling hot pans.
The chickens are marinated with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce before they are deep-fried in oil. The result is a crispy and juicy treat that locals and tourists love.
This particular dish of the various street foods in Philippines has a unique flavor that sets it apart from other street food offerings.
Its sweetness comes from the ginger and garlic, while the soy sauce adds a tangy kick. Combining the two flavors produces an unforgettable flavor that is truly distinct to the Philippines.
For those brave enough to try it, fried baby chicken is sure to become one of your favorite street foods in the Philippines!
12. Banana Cue/ Banana Q
Banana cue is a popular street food in the Philippines. It is made of sweet, ripe, deep-fried bananas and coated with caramelized brown sugar.
This delicious snack is often served on skewers or sticks and can be found in food stalls all over the country.
The sweet and savory flavors of banana cue make it a great snack to enjoy while exploring the bustling cities of the Philippines.
This snack is usually accompanied by other traditional Filipino street foods such as isaw, kwek-kwek, and taho.
Together, these snacks on the list of delicious street foods in Philippines create a unique culinary experience for foodies.
Banana cue is a tasty and convenient way to explore the unique flavors of Philippine cuisine. Whether taking a quick break from sightseeing or just looking for a sweet treat, the banana cue will satisfy your taste buds.
13. Tocino
Tocino is one of the most popular street foods in Philippines. It is a cured meat dish made with pork, which is then marinated and cooked in a sweet and savory sauce.
The marinade usually consists of salt, sugar, garlic, bay leaves, and other spices that vary depending on the recipe.
Tocino is often served with a side of fried rice and vegetables, such as tomatoes and onions.
The dish is a favorite among Filipinos, as it is one of the cheapest ways to fill up on a budget. It can be found on nearly every street corner in the country, whether from a street vendor or in a restaurant.
Not only is it easy to find and cheap, but this one of the best street foods in Philippines, also tastes great.
The marinade flavors mix perfectly with the texture of the pork, making for an enjoyable meal.
14. Turon
Turon is not excluded from the list of the most popular street foods in Philippines. The classic turon consists of a sweet plantain or banana, a strip of jackfruit, and brown sugar, all wrapped up in a crepe-like spring roll wrapper.
This delectable snack is deep-fried until it’s golden brown and served hot with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
The combination of sweet and salty flavors makes turon an irresistible treat. Not only that, but the fried wrapper’s crunchy texture and the filling’s soft sweetness make it a unique and delicious snack. If you’re in the Philippines, be sure to sample this local favorite!
15. Isaw
Isaw is a popular Filipino street food that has gained recognition all around the world. Isaw, which translates to the intestine in English, is made of chicken or pig intestines marinated in a vinegar and soy sauce mixture, grilled on a skewer, and then served with a variety of dipping sauces.
The traditional isaw recipe is filled with sweet and savory flavors. This delicious street food is a must-try for any traveler looking to experience true Filipino cuisine.
From the vibrant colors of the grilled vegetables to the tangy and sweet flavor of the marinade, the unique taste of isaw will keep you coming back for more.
Whether it’s an afternoon snack or a late-night craving, isaw is one of the street foods in Philippines that is sure to satisfy your hunger.
16. Betamax
This list of the sumptuous street foods in Philippines cannot be complete without Betamax. Originating in the city of Manila, Betamax is made from pork blood that is cubed, cooked, and then dried in the sun.
It is usually served on skewers and enjoyed with vinegar, garlic, and chili. Betamax is a great source of protein and provides an interesting flavor and texture to any dish.
The taste of Betamax can vary greatly depending on how it is prepared. For example, some street vendors in the Philippines serve it grilled or fried. Others prepare it with coconut milk and spices.
Betamax is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves trying new foods regardless of how it is prepared. Not only is it tasty and unique, but it also makes for a great snack on the go.
17. Walkman/ Tenga – Grilled Pig Ears
Tenga, or Walkman, as it is known in some parts of the Philippines, is a popular street food that many Filipinos enjoy.
It is made from grilled pig ears and can be served plain or with various sauces. The pig ears are first boiled until they are tender, then they are cut into small pieces and seasoned with a variety of spices and seasonings before they are grilled.
The result is a savory, smoky, and slightly crunchy snack that is both delicious and satisfying.
Tenga or Walkman is one of the great street foods in Philippines to trying when you are in the country. It is readily available at many street stalls and food stands, and it’s often served with a side of white rice.
This dish is popular among locals and tourists alike, and it’s one of the best ways to get an authentic taste of Filipino culture.
If you’re looking for something unique and delicious to try while in the Philippines, Tenga or Walkman should definitely be on your list!
18. Lechon Manok – Grilled Chicken
Delicious street foods in Philippines? Lechon Manok is a popular Filipino street food dish. It consists of marinated chicken, which is then skewered and grilled over charcoal, giving it a smoky and flavorful taste.
The chicken is often served with various condiments and seasonings, such as garlic, lemon, soy sauce, and vinegar.
Its succulent and juicy meat is also complemented by its crispy skin, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
In the Philippines, Lechon Manok is usually served with steamed white rice and can be found in street-side stalls or food markets all around the country.
It’s also a popular item during special occasions and parties, and it’s common to see a large roasted chicken served as part of the festivities.
Regardless of how it’s served, Lechon Manok is an integral part of Filipino cuisine and is an excellent way to enjoy a delicious meal on the go.
19. Helmet – Grilled Chicken Head
If you’re a food enthusiast, helmet should be on your list of must-try street foods in Philippines when visiting the country.
Helmet is the Filipino term for the grilled chicken head, a popular snack found in many street markets across the country. It’s usually served with a dipping sauce made with soy sauce, calamansi, and chili.
This dish is surprisingly delicious, with tender meat and crispy skin that can be enjoyed with a sprinkle of chili powder or vinegar.
The key to enjoying this street food is to find an experienced vendor – the chicken heads are best when grilled over charcoal and seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic, and onion. Try it once, and you might just be hooked!
20. Adidas
Adidas, also known as chicken feet, is undoubtedly one of the most popular street foods in Philippines. It is a deep-fried snack made from chicken feet and other parts of the bird, like the neck and gizzard.
The feet are usually boiled before they are fried with garlic, pepper, and spices. It is often served with vinegar or soy sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
Adidas is also one of the beloved street foods in Philippines because of its unique and flavorful taste. It can be enjoyed on its own or as an accompaniment to other dishes.
It’s a great way to get a quick snack on the go or as a late-night treat after a long day of sightseeing. There’s no doubt that this tasty dish will have your taste buds screaming for more!
21. Balut – Fertilized Duck Egg
Balut is a popular street food in the Philippines. It is a fertilized duck egg that is boiled and eaten directly from its shell.
Balut, one of the best street foods in Philippines, is served with a pinch of salt, pepper, and vinegar, which enhances its flavor. The taste is earthy and slightly gamey, and the texture is creamy and chewy.
Eating balut is considered a delicacy in the Philippines, as it takes some time due to its unique texture and taste.
Eating balut may sound strange to some, but it has been part of Filipino culture for centuries. This street food can be found in almost all parts of the country, from the cities to rural villages.
Locals are said to enjoy the snack for its unique flavor and for its potential health benefits, such as providing energy, protein, and vitamins.
Whether you are brave enough to try this unique delicacy or not, Balut remains one of the most popular street foods in Philippines.
22. Binatog – Boiled White Corn Kernels
We are still on the list of amazingly awesome street foods in Philippines. It consists of boiled white corn kernels served with grated coconut, salt, and/or butter.
The dish is usually sold by street vendors throughout the country, especially in cities and towns. This inexpensive treats is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The flavor of Binatog can vary depending on how it is prepared. Some vendors will sprinkle sugar on the corn, while others may add spices such as chili powder or garlic to give it a more savory flavor.
The dish can be eaten as is or combined with other ingredients, such as sliced fruits or cheese, for a unique twist.
Whatever way it’s enjoyed, Binatog is one of the street foods in Philippines that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds!
23. Mais – Boiled Corn
Mais is one of the very nice and popular street foods in Philippines, and it’s a must-try for anyone looking for a unique snack.
The corn is boiled in a pot of salted water, then topped with butter or margarine, salt, and chili powder.
The result is a delicious, spicy treat that satisfies your cravings. You can find this dish in most street food stalls throughout the country.
Mais is traditionally served with kamote (sweet potato) fries and sili labuyo (a type of chili pepper). It’s a great way to sample some of the local flavors and a great snack to have while exploring the sights and sounds of the Philippines.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add some dried fish or cured meats for a more filling meal. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Mais is sure to be a highlight of any foodie trip to the Philippines.
24. Sorbetes – Dirty Ice Cream
Sorbetes are unique street foods in Philippines that can be found in nearly every major city. It is commonly referred to as dirty ice cream because it combines ingredients like evaporated and condensed milk, butter, sugar, and cornstarch.
This ice cream is poured into metal cans, attached to a hand cart, and pushed around the city by the vendor.
The taste of sorbetes is often described as creamy and sweet and comes in many flavors. These include ube (purple yam), cheese, mango, coconut, buko pandan (coconut and pandan jelly), and even chocolate.
Sorbetes is a popular treat amongst locals and tourists alike, especially during the hot summer months. For a truly authentic experience, try visiting a vendor and having some fresh sorbets, which is also one of the amazing street foods in Philippines, for yourself!
25. Ice Cream Sandwich
Can we discuss the amazing street foods in Philippines without mentioning the Ice Cream Sandwich? Impossible! It’s made of a block of ice cream that is sandwiched between two thin wafers.
Furthermore, it can be found in many local convenience stores, as well as in street carts.
The wafer helps keep the ice cream from melting while you enjoy the cool and refreshing treat. The flavor of an Ice Cream Sandwich varies depending on where you buy it.
Popular flavors include chocolate, vanilla, mango, strawberry, and ube. For an extra twist, some vendors add coconut flakes, peanuts, and other toppings to the sandwich.
No matter which flavor you choose, the Ice Cream Sandwich is sure to be a delicious snack for when you’re out and about in the Philippines.
26. Halo-Halo – Filipino Shaved Ice Sundae
Halo-halo is one of the most popular street foods in Philippines. This traditional dessert dish is a concoction of shaved ice, sweetened beans, cream, jello, fruits, and other toppings. A dollop of ice cream often tops off the whole shebang!
While there are many variations of halo-halo, the essential ingredients remain the same. The flavors mingle to create a refreshing treat that’s sure to please even the pickiest palates.
Halo-halo, one of the street foods in Philippines, can be found at many street stalls and eateries throughout the country.
Plus, it’s a great way to cool off on hot days and indulge in something sweet. Whether you’re looking for a midday snack or a sweet dessert after dinner, halo-halo is a great choice. If you’re ever in the Philippines, make sure to try some halo-halo—you won’t regret it!
27. Iskrambol – Ice Scramble
Iskrambol, also known as ice scramble, is a popular street food found in the Philippines.
This delicious treat is typically made from shaved ice and syrup, with optional toppings like marshmallows, chocolate syrup, nuts, and more.
This dessert is perfect for a hot day in the Philippines, as the shaved ice is refreshing, and the syrup provides a sweet flavor.
The toppings can also be used to customize the flavor of the iskrambol to your own personal preference.
Iskrambol is not only one of the great street foods in Philippines, but it’s also affordable! A typical serving of iskrambol costs around 20-30 pesos and can easily be found in most public markets and local stalls in the Philippines.
Whether you are looking for a cool treat or need a quick snack, iskrambol is the perfect option for a budget-friendly street food experience.
28. Espasol – Filipino Rice Cake
Espasol is a traditional Filipino rice cake commonly served as one of the street foods in Philippines. It is made from glutinous rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar, which gives it a unique sweet flavor.
The dough is then shaped into small logs or discs and fried until golden brown. The finished product has a crunchy exterior and a soft, chewy center.
Espasol is usually served with a sprinkling of sugar and grated coconut. It can also be enjoyed with condensed milk or even ube ice cream for a more indulgent treat.
A popular snack in the Philippines, it can be found in local markets and street stalls all over the country. Enjoyed with a cup of hot coffee or tea, Espasol is the perfect way to cool off after a long day in the sun.
29. Bibingka – Filipino Coconut-Rice Cake
Finally, Bibingka is one of the classic street foods in Philippines that has been around for generations. It is a coconut-rice cake usually cooked in a clay pot lined with banana leaves.
The cake is made from a mixture of rice flour, grated coconut, and brown sugar, then topped with margarine and cheese before being cooked over charcoal. The result is a sweet and savory snack that is both savory and crunchy.
The bibingka can be found in many places throughout the Philippines, but it is especially popular in the Southern parts of the country. Street vendors often sell it at the market or in front of people’s homes.
This snack is especially popular during Christmas when it is served hot with a generous dollop of grated coconut.
If you’re ever in the Philippines and looking for something quick and delicious, make sure to give Bibingka a try! This winds up on our list of delectable street foods in Philippines!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a unique and delicious culinary experience, then look no further than the street foods in Philippines. With a variety of flavors, textures, and recipes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
In this guide, we explored the most popular street foods in Philippines and offered tips on where to find the best places to eat.
So we hope you were satisfied with this journey of the vibrant flavors of Filipino street foods we’ve taken you through!
