Manila stands out as a fantastic destination for food lovers. Its streets are alive with aromas, flavors, and stories that span centuries—an urban palate full of surprises. Whether you’re wandering through the bustling markets, sampling dishes in historic Chinatown, or riding a colorful jeepney, this city offers authentic tastes that are hard to find elsewhere. We particularly enjoyed tours like the Manila Food Tour: Introduction to Philippine Street Food, which combines local snacks with insider tips, and the Explore World’s Oldest Chinatown, offering a flavorful walk through history. These experiences put you right in the heart of Manila’s diverse culinary scene, perfect for foodies eager to taste real Filipino life.
If you’re looking for a deeper dive into Manila’s street eats, the Street Food and Drinks Walking Tour with Tastings offers a lively two-hour adventure through side streets and local transportation, giving a true taste of everyday Manila. For a more comprehensive exploration, the Culinary Expedition: The Ultimate Food and Market Tour combines Chinatown’s best dishes with a cultural overview, making it ideal for travelers who want more context along with their bites. All these choices represent Manila’s rich, layered food scene—each with its own character and focus.
1. Manila Food Tour: Introduction to Philippine Street Food
At number 1 on our list, this small-group tour offers a perfect introduction to Filipino street food, lasting about three hours. Led by a local guide, you’ll visit various restaurants and street vendors to sample iconic snacks like steaming dumplings, warm soups, and meat skewers. The tour ends with a sweet treat, leaving you with a full belly and useful insider tips on where to eat and drink in Manila. What makes this tour special is its focus on authentic flavors and the intimate setting of a small group—meaning more personalized attention. Reviews highlight guides like Nel and Chloe for their knowledge and friendly approach, making it more than just a food crawl but a cultural lesson wrapped in delicious bites. It’s ideal for first-timers wanting a quick, comprehensive taste of Manila’s street scene.
Bottom Line: A friendly, flavorful, and educational intro perfect for travelers new to Filipino cuisine or those short on time.
2. Manila Food Tour: Explore World’s Oldest Chinatown
Ranked second, this small-group tour takes you through Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown, for about three hours. You’ll sample dishes like Chinese empanadas and crystal shrimp dumplings while learning about the area’s fascinating history. The tour emphasizes authentic Chinese-Filipino cuisine and includes opportunities to meet locals and enjoy budget-friendly options, helping you see how Chinese influences shaped Filipino food. Guides like Nel receive praise for their depth of knowledge, turning a simple food walk into a cultural lesson. The small group size (max 10) keeps it cozy and social. This tour is perfect for those interested in history, Chinese heritage, or simply wanting to eat well without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: A culturally rich and tasty way to discover Manila’s most historic food district.
3. Manila: Street Food and Drinks Walking Tour with Tastings
Coming in at number 3, this two-hour tour provides a quick yet immersive taste of Filipino street food, exploring side streets and local transportation options. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll try local favorites such as mango with shrimp paste, lumpia, and even Balut—duck embryo. The tour offers a genuine look at Filipino culinary culture and a chance to experience local transport modes like jeepneys and tricycles. Reviewers mention Tess and Mari for their friendliness and insights, making it a lively and memorable experience. It’s suited for travelers who want a fast-paced, authentic street food experience with enough variety to satisfy curious palates.
Bottom Line: An energetic, fun introduction to Manila’s street food and local life—perfect for short visits.
4. Manila’s Culinary Expedition: The Ultimate Food and Market Tour
At number 4, this three-hour small-group tour covers Chinatown and other neighborhoods on foot, allowing you to sample around 10 dishes while learning about Filipino cuisine’s diverse influences. The tour includes hotel transfers, making logistics easier, and emphasizes local market visits and culinary storytelling. Guides like Kyle and Mark are praised for their personalized approach, tailoring the experience to your interests. The value is high considering the quantity and quality of foods tasted, making it suitable for serious foodies wanting an in-depth, hands-on culinary journey. Some reviews note that bringing an appetite is essential since the tour is generously portioned.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, in-depth food adventure ideal for those wanting to understand Manila’s culinary mosaic.
5. Manila: Sightseeing and Food Walking Tour with Tastings
Ranked fifth, this 7.5-hour tour combines cycling, walking, and food across Chinatown, Quiapo Market, and Intramuros. It’s a full-day experience, including rides in traditional bamboo bikes and visits to markets and landmarks. The tour offers diverse modes of transport and multiple tasting stops, making it perfect for active travelers who want to see the city’s highlights while sampling local dishes. Reviewers highlight the friendly guides and the well-paced itinerary. The comprehensive nature makes it suitable for those with a whole day to spend exploring Manila’s culture and cuisine.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one cultural and culinary day trip for energetic explorers.
6. Manila: Guided Food Tour of Binondo with Tastings
Number 6 offers a guided walk through Binondo, the oldest Chinatown, for about three hours. It features visits to hidden gems, local bakeries, and traditional eateries, focusing on Filipino-Chinese dishes and insights into their culinary history. The tour’s intimate size and knowledgeable guide (Chloe) make it ideal for those who want a personalized experience and to discover authentic, lesser-known spots. The reviews praise the guide’s friendliness and the quality of the food, especially dumplings. This tour is perfect if you love learning about the cultural roots behind your food or want a more relaxed, small-group experience.
Bottom Line: A culturally rich tasting tour emphasizing authenticity and local charm.
7. Makati Street Food Tour Experience
Ranking seventh, this 2-hour tour in Makati focuses on Filipino street food culture, sampling local snacks and drinks. It’s concise but lively, ideal for those short on time yet eager to try a variety of flavors. Guides introduce you to local food customs and Filipino history through tastings. Reviewers describe the guides as friendly and the experience as satisfying. It’s suited for travelers wanting a quick, fun, and authentic street food overview—perfect for a layover or a quick evening activity.
Bottom Line: A compact, flavorful taste of Makati’s street food scene with friendly guides and local insights.
8. Skip the Line: Hike Eat Swim at Mount Purro Nature Reserve Ticket
Number 8 is a nature escape, offering a day pass to Mount Purro Nature Reserve. While not a traditional food tour, it includes buffet lunch, hiking, river excursions, and swimming—a perfect break from city streets. It’s great for travelers who want to combine food with outdoor activities and enjoy the forests of the Sierra Madre. The tour is well-rated for its scenery and facilities, with options like guided hikes and mini-zipline. Reviewers appreciate the buffet and the chance to experience local communities, making it ideal for active families or outdoor lovers.
Bottom Line: A mix of nature, culture, and food, suited for active travelers seeking a day outdoors.
9. Makati: Street Food Experience with a Local Guide
Number 9 offers a 2-hour guided exploration of Makati’s street food and local markets. It emphasizes best Filipino street food and includes a visit to a rooftop bar for drinks. The review mentions the guide’s enthusiasm and the diverse food options, making it a good choice for those wanting a short, lively introduction to Manila’s street scene. Perfect for travelers with limited time who want a taste of local atmosphere and cuisine while enjoying some city views.
Bottom Line: A quick, energetic stroll through Makati’s best street eats with an added rooftop experience.
10. Manila Street Food Tour in the Downtown, Eat and Drink
Ranking tenth, this 2-hour tour is ideal for layovers or short visits. It takes you through Manila’s side streets, sampling street food and experiencing local transportation. Guides like Floyd and V get high praise for their navigation skills and cultural insights. It’s a flexible, accessible option for travelers wanting a quick, authentic food adventure close to the city’s key sights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a brief but flavorful introduction to Manila’s street food scene.
11. Manila Chinatown Food Tour with Local Guide
Number 11 is a 2.5-hour tour focused on Binondo, combining history and food. It explores famous landmarks and hidden eateries, ending with a traditional dim sum experience. The guide’s energy and knowledge shine, making it ideal for those interested in cultural stories and authentic Chinese-Filipino dishes. Reviewers appreciated the pace and the opportunity to visit local markets and cozy restaurants. It’s a great fit if you want a balanced mix of history, culture, and cuisine.
Bottom Line: A culturally immersive food walk that blends history with authentic flavors.
12. Manila Street Food and Drinks with Tuktuk Experience
Ranked twelfth, this tuktuk ride combines Manila’s street FOOD and local drinks. It’s a lively, colorful experience, perfect for those who want to explore the city’s neighborhoods in a fun way while tasting local favorites. The tour’s focus on local community immersion makes it stand out.
Bottom Line: A fun, mobile way to enjoy Manila’s street food and local vibe.
13. Authentic Manila Chinatown Food Tour Exploration
Number 13 offers a 3 to 4-hour walk through Chinatown with a focus on dishes that showcase Filipino-Chinese fusion. It includes visits to historic streets and a famous bakery for hopia. The guide’s dedication to authenticity makes it ideal for foodies who want to understand the culinary roots of Manila’s Chinese influence. Reviewers mention the quality of food and the engaging guides. It’s perfect for those wanting a detailed taste of Chinatown’s culinary heritage.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, authentic exploration of Chinatown’s diverse flavors and history.
14. Ugbo Manila Street Food with Local Guide
Number 14 is a 2.5-hour street food tour in Tondo, focusing on local transportation and community interaction. You’ll try a variety of street foods and experience the neighborhood’s lively atmosphere. It’s best for travelers interested in off-the-beaten-path experiences that go beyond tourist spots.
Bottom Line: An authentic, community-focused food tour for curious travelers seeking a deeper connection.
15. Manila: Best Street Food Tour With A Local Guide
Finally, number 15 offers a 3-hour guided walking tour covering iconic Manila streets. You’ll visit famous food spots and discover hidden culinary treasures, all while learning about the city’s local culture. The guide’s local insight helps you uncover less touristy eateries. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and street food, especially for first-timers.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded introduction to Manila’s best street foods and local neighborhoods.
$81 per person
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Manila
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, available time, and culinary interests. If you’re short on time but want a quick taste, the Street Food and Drinks Walking Tour or Makati Street Food Tour are excellent picks. For a deep dive into Chinatown, the Culinary Expedition or Guided Food Tour of Binondo are unmatched. Budget travelers will find the Explore Oldest Chinatown and Makati street food to be valuable without sacrificing authenticity. Those with more time can savor the culinary and cultural tour in Chinatown or full-day sightseeing and eating.
Booking early helps ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons or major festivals like Chinese New Year, when Chinatown’s food scene buzzes with extra flavor and energy.
In sum, Manila offers a diverse array of food tours tailored to different interests and schedules, from quick bites in Makati to comprehensive explorations of Chinatown. For those wanting to dive into Filipino street culture, tours like the Manila Food Tour: Introduction to Philippine Street Food or the Ultimate Food and Market Tour stand out. If you love history and authentic flavors, the Chinatown Food Tours are excellent choices. Whichever you choose, Manila’s vibrant street food scene promises a memorable, flavorful journey. Book early, bring your appetite, and enjoy discovering what makes Filipino cuisine so uniquely appealing.