5 must-try food spots to visit in Binondo, Manila

One of the must-visit areas when in Manila is the old district of Binondo.

Touted as the oldest Chinatown in the world, this bustling area is teeming with history and tradition dating back to its establishment in 1594.

Visiting Binondo, however, would not be complete without sampling the assortment of food outlets stationed here. Chinese food of course is the dominant food theme here. The restaurants are far from being fancy but that's part of their lasting appeal and authenticity.

Planning to visit Binondo soon? Here are some of the food outlets worth trying to get you started.

Ying Ying Tea House

Source: Luckwatsero (Instagram)

Authentic yet affordable Chinese delicacies await at this Cantonese restaurant. The wide range of options here includes the usual favorites - noodles, rice toppings, congee, hakao, and dim sum. Adventurous eaters won't be disappointed with choices like frog legs and noodles with innards readily available.

Location: 233-235 Dasmarinas corner Yuchengco Street, Binondo, Manila

Eng Bee Tin Chinese Deli

Source: Eng Bee Tin Chinese Deli (Instagram)

This famous hopia brand needs no introduction. Take a pick from its many hopia flavors and variations such as ube langka, custard, red bean, and many more. There's more here than just hopia as you can also purchase tikoy, mochi, mooncake, and even frozen goods like kikiam, and pork and shrimp siomai to take home with you.

Location: 650 Ongpin St, Binondo, Manila

Shanghai Fried Siopao

Source: Shanghai Fried Siopao (Instagram)

This is the place to go if you want your siopai prepared differently. Rather than have it handed soft and fluffy, you'll get your siopao fried and crispy at the bottom. This humble takeout café is so popular that it gets too crowded most of the time pre-COVID-19 pandemic.

Location: Ongpin Street, Binondo Manila

Wai Ying Fastfood

Source: Wai Ying Fastfood (Facebook)

Another go-to spot for those on the hunt for authentic Chinese delicacies. You can enjoy servings of delicious dumplings, congee, dim sum, curry beef siomai, and roasted Peking duck here. Make sure to try the Hong Kong milk tea to go with your meal or ask for the complimentary hot tea to wash the flavors down. What customers love about this place is the generous servings yet affordable prices.

Location: 810 Benavidez Street, Binondo, Manila

The Original Salido Restaurant

Source: The Original Salido Restaurant

Many rave about the quality of food here especially those craving genuine Chinese food. The options are a lot, and you can order items like yang chow fried rice, roast chicken, sweet and sour pork, spring rolls, dim sum, to name only a few. But the star of the show is the delectable pork Asado. The place is often filled with Chinese customers, further lending the restaurant street credibility. The restaurant is already open at 6 a.m. as some loyal customers go here for breakfast to jumpstart their day.

Location: 839 Ongpin Street, Binondo, Manila