Celebrity Life

Don't leave Iloilo City without visiting these must-try restaurants

By Michelle Caligan
Published April 26, 2019 3:41 PM PHT
Updated April 30, 2019 4:26 PM PHT

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Aside from its beautiful churches and the colorful Dinagyang Festival, another reason to keep coming back to Iloilo City are the delectable local dishes that will leave anyone wanting for more. Read more:

Aside from its beautiful churches and the colorful Dinagyang Festival, another reason to keep coming back to Iloilo City are the delectable local dishes that will leave anyone wanting for more. So the next time you visit the City of Love, or if you're currently on vacation there, make sure to drop by these restaurants before leaving to have a taste of what Ilonggo cuisine is all about.

Tatoy's Manokan and Seafood Restaurant
Tatoy's Manokan and Seafood Restaurant

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Tatoy's Manokan and Seafood Restaurant

source: la (IG)
source: la (IG)

Considered by many as an institution, Tatoy's Manokan and Seafood Restaurant should not be missed when visiting Iloilo City. Located along Villa Beach in Arevalo district, this restaurant is known for its native litson manok and seafood dishes such as baked oysters and grilled fish. Tatoy's has since expanded to cater to their growing customers, opening branches in the city center and near Iloilo International Airport.

tatoysiloilo (IG)
source: tatoysiloilo (IG)


Netong's Original Special La Paz Batchoy

netongslapazbatchoy (IG)
source: netongslapazbatchoy (IG)

Many restaurants all over the country have batchoy in their menu, but nothing beats the original in Iloilo City. Netong's has been serving this Ilonggo specialty - miki noodles with slivers of meat in hot broth, topped with chicharon and fried garlic - since 1948 inside the La Paz Market. It was only in 2015 when the owners decided to have another branch in the city.


Roberto's

bongjaranilla (IG)
source: bongjaranilla (IG)

Ask any Ilonggo where the best siopao in town is, and chances are they'll all point you to Roberto's. This unassuming food joint is easy to spot along J.M. Basa Street because of the long queue. Make sure to grab a piece of their bestseller, the Queen, which is filled with bacon, Chinese sausage, chicken-pork adobo, and egg.


Madge Cafe

source: boybabsky IG
source: boybabsky IG

For coffee lovers, head to any of the two branches of Madge Cafe and try their traditionally brewed coffee that has been enjoyed for over 80 years. They also serve snacks and pastries, including Bacolod's famous Calea cakes.


Farm to Table

source: farmtotableiloilo (IG)
source: farmtotableiloilo (IG)

If you're looking for gourmet Filipino food made with the freshest ingredients, then Farm to Table in Megaworld Business Park is the perfect choice. This restaurant doesn't only craft delicious organic food, it also supports local farmers and small-scale animal growers by having their products delivered directly to Farm to Table.

migzsaracho (IG)
source: migzsaracho (IG)


Stella

stellaph_ (IG)
source: stellaph_ (IG)

Stella only opened in December 2018, making it the youngest in this list, but it has been getting rave reviews for its classic Filipino food and cozy ambiance. They mostly serve Ilonggo favorites that will remind you of your grandmother's cooking.

stellaph_ (IG)
source: stellaph_ (IG)


DoVa Brunch Cafe

source: dovabruchcafe (IG)
source: dovabrunchcafe (IG)

Brunch is always a good idea in DoVa Brunch Cafe, and although a bit pricey, the food served here is worth every peso. Don't forget to order their Braised Beef Brisket, Sticky Pork Ribs, Big Brunch Plate, and the Masarap Ba? approved Deep Fried Cheese Balls.

source: dovabrunchcafe (IG)
source: dovabrunchcafe (IG)

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