Filipino Food Guide for Palawan: Dishes You Must Try

El Nido is surrounded by the sea, making seafood a staple. At Sea Slugs, you can get Kinilaw, a raw fish salad with coconut vinegar, for around PHP 200. Just 300 meters from El Nido beach, it’s great for lunch after a morning island hopping. The dish features fresh, diced fish marinated with onions, ginger, and chili, creating a refreshing taste that dances on your palate. The tangy aroma of the vinegar mixed with the scent of the sea fills the air as you savor each bite. Another dish to try is Sinigang na Baboy (pork sour soup) for PHP 250 at Trattoria Altrove, roughly 600 meters away, which pairs beautifully with steamed rice. This comforting soup is made with tender pork, tamarind, and a medley of vegetables, resulting in a savory and sour flavor that warms the soul. When visiting, try to arrive during lunchtime to enjoy the busy atmosphere, where locals and tourists mingle. Don't hesitate to ask for extra chili if you enjoy heat; it can elevate the soup's flavor profile. Be sure to savor the first spoonful slowly, allowing the rich aroma to envelop you while listening to the sounds of sizzling pans and laughter in the background.

For a true taste of the Philippines, head to El Nido Grill, where Chicken Inasal (grilled marinated chicken) is served with garlic rice and atchara (pickled papaya) for PHP 150. It's just a 10-minute walk (about 800 meters) from El Nido beach, and locals often enjoy this hearty meal before heading out for the evening. The aroma of the marinated chicken grilling over charcoal fills the air, mingling with the scent of garlic and herbs that waft from the kitchen. As you take a seat, listen to the sound of sizzling meat and the lively chatter of patrons enjoying their meals. The dish features tender, juicy chicken brushed with a marinade made from vinegar, calamansi juice, and spices, giving it a deliciously tangy flavor. make sure to see the accompanying atchara, which perfectly balances the savory notes with its sweet and sour profile. Arrive early, especially during the dinner rush, as tables fill quickly. If you’re looking for a local drink to complement your meal, try a glass of sago’t gulaman, a refreshing dessert drink made with tapioca pearls and sweetened gelatin, often served in street stalls nearby. This combination not only satisfies hunger but also provides a genuine taste of everyday Filipino life in Palawan.

Longsilog, a sweet pork sausage served with fried rice and egg, is a breakfast favorite. At the local café, Artcafe, you can enjoy this classic for PHP 180. Located about 400 meters from the beach, it’s a great spot to fuel up before a day of activities. This dish is not just filling; it’s a taste of home comfort that keeps locals returning. As you take a seat, the aroma of grilled sausages fills the air, mingling with the scent of freshly brewed coffee. The bright decor and soft chatter of patrons create a welcoming atmosphere, great for starting your day. Try pairing your longsilog with a refreshing calamansi juice, a local citrus drink that adds a tangy twist to your meal. If you’re an early riser, arrive before 9 AM to avoid the morning rush, as this dish is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. Longsilog is not merely a meal; it reflects Filipino culinary traditions, often served on special occasions and family gatherings, making it a comforting way to connect with the culture of Palawan.

For plant-based eaters, try Pinakbet, a vegetable stew with shrimp paste, available at various restaurants like the local eatery, Jolly Café, for PHP 120. It’s roughly 500 meters from the beach, making it accessible for a healthy lunch. The mix of local vegetables like eggplant and bitter gourd with a bit of shrimp paste showcases the flavors of Filipino home cooking. This dish is often served with a side of steamed rice, enhancing the natural sweetness of the vegetables. When you take your first bite, the savory aroma of sautéed garlic and onions fills the air, while the slight bitterness of the gourd balances the flavors beautifully. For those seeking a fully plant-based version, some eateries may offer a variation without shrimp paste for an additional PHP 20. The best time to enjoy Pinakbet is during lunchtime, as many locals stop by for a quick meal. Look for the colorful local markets nearby, where you can buy fresh produce to see the ingredients used in this traditional dish. Listening to the sounds of sizzling woks and chatting locals will add to the authentic atmosphere as you savor this staple of Filipino cuisine.

No meal is complete without dessert. Leche Flan, a rich caramel custard, is served for about PHP 70 at many local eateries, while Bibingka, a rice cake topped with salted egg, is available at PHP 50 at the market stalls near El Nido beach. Strolling back from the beach, grab these treats at the food stalls just 200 meters away for a sweet end to your day. The Leche Flan’s silky texture melts in your mouth, with a glossy caramel layer that glistens under the warm sun. Vendors often prepare it in small, round molds, and the fragrant aroma of caramelizing sugar fills the air. Bibingka, traditionally made from rice flour, is cooked in clay pots lined with banana leaves, imparting a slightly smoky flavor that complements the salty richness of the egg topping. To ensure you get the freshest Bibingka, visit in the early evening when it’s typically made. Locals often enjoy these treats during Christmas season, making them a cultural staple worth trying year-round. Look for stalls with a line of locals; this is usually a good sign of quality and authenticity.

make sure to see trying local drinks like Sago’t Gulaman, a sweet tapioca and jelly drink for PHP 50 at local markets. It's refreshing after a hot day at the beach. Additionally, fresh buko (coconut) juice can be found for around PHP 40, which is not only hydrating but also adds a tropical twist to your meals. Both drinks can be found within 300 meters of most dining spots in El Nido.