Quick Binondo Foodtrip

I finally got to scour through Binondo for legit gastronomic eats!

The place is famous for its mouthwatering dishes, but let’s get straight to the point!

I suggest you go to Binondo during the weekdays. My friends and I came from Ortigas and it took us a solid 4 hours to get there (get there meaning “on the road” to our “parking slot.”) We originally planned to take our lunch there (we even had our whole itinerary all figured out) but we ate at around 5 pm which is pretty much the early dinner/late merienda.

MUST VISIT SHOPS:

Dong Bei – This is a pretty simple and humble place, but I’ve read that they have one of the best dumplings in Binondo. You’ll even see the staff prepare the dumplings then and there (literally there as you enter the room). Since this is a small restaurant, make sure you don’t miss this! Lastly, their stuffed pancakes are also a must-try!

Cafe Mezzanine – If you’re craving for seafood lomi, kamto soup, beef wanton, or tofu, then look no further, this restaurant is probably for you. It’s not all bad they offer free 2 hours parking to their customers with a minimum purchase of P500. This is also known as the “Fireman’s Coffee Shop.” A little back story: when the economy was dwindling in the 90s, only a few people funded the fire brigade. The owner of this restaurant was a volunteer firefighter, so he put up a business which would direct all its income to the Binondo Paco Fire Search and Rescue Brigade fund. (NICE!) *firefighters also get 20% discount plus free coffee/juice.

Sincerity Cafe and Restaurant – This restaurant is popular for their chicken, oyster cake, Eight Treasure Machang, and Spare Ribs. They’re even called the “fried chicken specialists” in all of Manila because of their incomparable recipe.

Masuki – Their small menu makes for easier and faster decisions. Go try their dim sum or mami at affordable prices!

Eng Bee Tin Chinese Deli – Nothing beats this classic shop if you’re looking to buy pasalubong for the family! They have a nice and complete shop and you’ll really enjoy shopping for tasty Chinese treats and drinks!

Wai Ying – This shop is known for its roasted duck, wanton soup, and curry beef siomai. Expect long lines because this is pretty much visited by many fellow Binondo foodtrip-ers and hungry residents.

LGA – Fast Food Estero – Look carefully enough and you’ll find an open karinderya right by the estero. This place is a popular Binondo destination for its tasty and affordable food. Go try out their deep-fried frog legs.

ALSO READ: Asian Comfort Food at Banana Leaf

WHAT WE VISITED:

In my defense, we could’ve visited + 2 or 3 more aside from the listed shops below if not for the horrible traffic (hello 4 hours!) on our way there.