In the Philippines, dining out has long been more than just a convenience—it’s a celebration of connection, milestones, and culture. According to a report by Restroworks, the country’s overall food service market, encompassing fast food, full-service, and cloud kitchens, is expected to reach USD 30.5 billion by 2030. Yet even as inflation and supply costs…
In the Philippines, a “high-end” cake shop isn’t always about velvet ropes and chandeliers. Instead, Filipinos define luxury in cakes through aesthetics, premium ingredients, and unforgettable taste. These shops aren’t the usual nationwide chains —they’re often locally rooted, with creations that feel bespoke, even if they’re grab-and-go convenient. Most importantly, they have that coveted “X-factor”—a…
The traditional Filipino diet, rooted in fresh produce and time-honored cooking methods, is more than just flavorful—it’s a hidden treasure trove of health benefits. At the heart of this vibrant cuisine are native fruits, vegetables, and plant-based products that offer powerful nutritional value. Unlike highly processed foods, many traditional Filipino staples are packed with fiber,…
Filipino chocolate is gaining global recognition, thanks to dedicated artisanal and bean-to-bar producers. The country’s ideal cacao-growing conditions and commitment to the “tree-to-bar” philosophy—where farmers are involved in every step of the process—ensure high-quality, sustainable chocolate. This approach has earned Philippine chocolate international acclaim, with awards from prestigious competitions like the Academy of Chocolate and…
Manila is a haven for sophisticated culinary masterpieces, especially for those seeking the best classic and high-end steakhouses in the Philippines. Here, we curated an exclusive and most-reviewed list of steakhouses you may want to visit and let the experience speak for itself. From simple family dinners to upscale restaurant dining, the Philippines has constantly…
The Christmas season in the Philippines is a time of joy, unity, and celebration, marked by vibrant traditions that have been passed down through generations. Central to these festivities is food, an essential element that brings families and communities together. Among the many culinary delights of the Filipino Christmas table are kakanin, traditional rice-based sweets…
In a city like Manila, where coffee is the drink of choice for mid-afternoon snack times, afternoon tea is slowly becoming popular among the upscale crowd. Hotel lobby lounges have started offering afternoon tea to their guests, providing a relaxing alternative to crowded coffee shops around the metro. The concept of “afternoon tea” in the…
Alcoholic drinks, crafted through a fascinating blend of science and art, have delighted palates for centuries. Each liquor boasts a distinct character and appeal, from the precise fermentation and distillation processes to the meticulous selection of ingredients. In recent years, the Philippines has emerged as a burgeoning hotspot for premium locally crafted liquors. With a…
As a nation colonized by the West, it’s no surprise that remnants of colonial mentality still exist, even if we’re able to develop positive customs and traits that we can call our own. From 1899 to 1946, the Philippines was colonized by the US and, before that, by Spain for more than 300 years. Though…
Halo-halo, a beloved and enduring dessert from the Philippines, is a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Its name, which translates to “mix-mix” in English, captures the essence of the dessert: a vibrant mixture of shaved ice, sweetened fruits, beans, jellies, and topped with leche flan, purple yam, and evaporated milk. This colorful and refreshing…