Top 15 Filipino Dishes Every Foodie Loves

The Philippines is a culinary paradise where every dish tells a story of its rich history and diverse culture. 

From savory classics to sweet treats, Filipino cuisine is a celebration of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and heartfelt hospitality.

Exploring these dishes is like taking a flavorful journey across the archipelago, with each region offering its own signature specialties. 

Whether you’re planning a trip or just want to taste the essence of the Philippines, here are 15 dishes every foodie needs to try.

1. Adobo

Often called the unofficial national dish of the Philippines, adobo is a savory stew of meat (usually chicken or pork) marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices.

The combination of tangy, salty, and umami flavors makes this dish unforgettable. 

Pair it with steamed rice for the ultimate Filipino comfort food experience.

2. Sinigang

This sour tamarind-based soup is a refreshing dish that perfectly balances tanginess with the savory richness of meat or seafood.

Often cooked with vegetables like okra, radish, and eggplant, sinigang is a bowl of warmth and love, especially during rainy days.

3. Lechon

A Filipino celebration isn’t complete without lechon, a whole roasted pig with crispy skin and tender meat.

Served with a sweet and tangy liver sauce, it’s the highlight of fiestas and special occasions.

4. Kare-Kare

This peanut-based stew is a hearty dish made with oxtail, tripe, and vegetables like eggplant and string beans.

Traditionally served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste), kare-kare is a unique mix of nutty and salty flavors.

5. Pancit

A noodle dish that comes in many forms, pancit symbolizes long life and is a must at Filipino birthday celebrations.

From pancit canton to bihon, each variation is packed with flavor, often featuring vegetables, meat, and a squeeze of calamansi for zest.

6. Sisig

Hailing from Pampanga, the “culinary capital” of the Philippines, sisig is a sizzling dish made from chopped pig’s face, liver, and spices.

Served on a hot plate with an egg cracked on top, sisig is a savory, crunchy delight with a hint of citrus.

7. Halo-Halo

This iconic Filipino dessert is a refreshing mix of crushed ice, sweetened fruits, jellies, beans, leche flan, and ube (purple yam).

Topped with evaporated milk, halo-halo is perfect for beating the tropical heat.

8. Laing

A specialty from the Bicol region, laing is made from dried taro leaves cooked in creamy coconut milk with shrimp paste and chili.

Its earthy and spicy flavors make it a unique and delicious dish.

9. Lumpia

Filipino spring rolls, known as lumpia, are crunchy rolls filled with meat, vegetables, or both.

They’re often served as appetizers or snacks, accompanied by a sweet and tangy dipping sauce.

10. Bibingka

A beloved rice cake traditionally enjoyed during Christmas, bibingka is made from rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar, baked in banana leaves.

It’s often topped with salted eggs, grated coconut, and butter for a sweet and savory treat.

11. Bangus (Milkfish)

As the national fish of the Philippines, bangus is enjoyed in various ways—grilled, fried, or as sinigang na bangus.

Its mild flavor pairs well with tangy sauces or a simple garlic dip.

12. Chicken Inasal

Originating from Bacolod, this marinated grilled chicken is flavored with calamansi, lemongrass, garlic, and annatto.

Served with garlic rice and a dipping sauce of vinegar and soy sauce, it’s a smoky and zesty delight.

13. Taho

A beloved street snack, taho is a warm treat made of silken tofu, sweet arnibal (caramelized sugar syrup), and chewy sago pearls.

It’s a simple yet comforting dish perfect for mornings.

14. Bicol Express

This spicy stew from Bicol features pork cooked in coconut milk with chilies and shrimp paste.

It’s a fiery yet creamy dish that’s perfect for spice lovers.

15. Ensaymada

A sweet and fluffy bread topped with butter, sugar, and grated cheese, ensaymada is a favorite for breakfast or merienda (snack time).

It’s a rich and indulgent treat that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee.

Final Thoughts

Filipino cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be discovered. 

Each dish is a reflection of the country’s vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and love for good food. 

Whether you’re dining at a local carinderia or a high-end Filipino restaurant, these 15 dishes will leave you craving more.