food trip in sampaloc manila

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Sampaloc Manila Budget-Friendly Food Trip

Sampaloc in Manila is famous as a food hub or food trip area for several reasons. One of the main reasons is the area’s diverse selection of local and international food options that cater to various tastes and preferences. It is known for its traditional Filipino cuisine. Such as the famous turo-turo or carinderias, which offer affordable yet delicious home-cooked meals. These eateries serve popular dishes like adobo, sinigang, and sisig, among others. Sampaloc is also home to several universities and colleges. Making it a go-to destination for students who are looking for affordable and delicious meals. Many food establishments in the area offer affordable meals without compromising taste or quality. Moreover, its reputation as a food hub is also attributed to the many food establishments that have been in business for generations. Some of which have become institutions in the area, attracting both locals and tourists alike.

Bulalohan sa Laon-laan

Bulalohan sa Laon-Laan in Sampaloc Manila has become a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience authentic Filipino cuisine. The restaurant’s popularity is evident in the long queues of customers who patiently wait for their turn to be served. However, the wait is definitely worth it, as the delicious and satisfying Bulalo will leave you feeling satisfied and happy. What sets Bulalohan sa Laon-Laan apart from other Bulalo restaurants is its flavorful broth that is cooked for hours, resulting in a rich and robust flavor. The beef shanks are also tender and succulent. While the bone marrow adds a creamy texture that complements the dish perfectly. The vegetables, such as cabbage and corn, are cooked just right, providing a refreshing contrast to the hearty beef broth.

Aside from Bulalo, Bulalohan sa Laon-Laan also offers other Filipino favorites such as Sizzling Sisig, Kare-Kare, and Crispy Pata, among others. The prices are very reasonable, making it an ideal dining spot for budget-conscious foodies. But what truly makes Bulalohan sa Laon-Laan a standout is its commitment to quality and service.

The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the orders are served quickly. Ensuring that diners can enjoy their food while it’s still piping hot. If you’re in the mood for a comforting and hearty meal, head over this eatery in Sampaloc and indulge in their mouth-watering Bulalo and other Filipino favorites. You won’t be disappointed!

UBELT FOOD CRAWL

Sampaloc is a vibrant and bustling district in the city of Manila. It is home to some of the country’s most prestigious universities and colleges. As such, the area is teeming with students, faculty, and staff, all of whom are in search of a good meal to fuel their busy days. Thankfully, there is no shortage of food options in the University Belt. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, savory, or spicy, there is bound to be something to satisfy your cravings. If you’re in the mood for something quick and easy, the University Belt is home to plenty of street food vendors selling affordable and delicious treats like fish balls, squid balls, and kwek-kwek (hard-boiled quail eggs coated in batter and deep-fried). You’ll find many of these vendors along the busy streets of España Boulevard and P. Noval Street.

For a quick and convenient meal, there are plenty of fast food chains here, including Jollibee, McDonald’s, and KFC. These chains are particularly popular with students who are in a hurry between classes. Moreover, UBelt is home to many cafes and bakeries where you can grab a cup of coffee and a pastry on the go. Popular chains like Starbucks and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf have locations in the area.

As do smaller independent cafes like The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery and The Yard Coffee. There are also Korean BBQ, Japanese ramen, or Middle Eastern shawarma food stands and restaurants all over the place. University Belt is truly a food lover’s paradise. With plenty of options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, savory, or spicy, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings in this vibrant and bustling district.

McFlyn, also known as Mack, has become a familiar face in the University Belt Sampaloc for his unique take on mocktails. His small business, called “ Macktails ,” has been a hit among students and locals alike. With his handcrafted drinks being praised for their unique flavors and affordable prices. McFlyn’s journey as a mixologist began four years ago when he discovered his passion for creating handcrafted drinks. He started experimenting with different flavors and ingredients, eventually honing his skills and developing his own signature recipes. Last year, he decided to turn his passion into a business, setting up a small stand where he could sell his mocktails to students and passersby. He quickly gained a following, with his drinks becoming popular for their unique flavors and affordable prices. Despite the high quality of his mocktails, McFlyn keeps his prices reasonable. His drinks are ranging from PHP 85 to PHP 115.

This makes the stand a popular spot for students on a budget who still want to indulge in a delicious and refreshing drink. One of Mack’s best-sellers is the Yema Affogato, a drink inspired by the classic Italian dessert. This mocktail is made with espresso, cream, and yema. A popular Filipino candy made from condensed milk, creating a rich and indulgent flavor that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Another popular drink is the Rosy Pear, a refreshing mocktail made with pear juice, rose syrup, and soda water. This drink is perfect for those hot summer days when you need something cool and refreshing to quench your thirst. For those who prefer a little bit of spice, McFlyn’s Bana Berry Horchata is a great option. This mocktail is made with banana, mixed berries, cinnamon, and rice milk, resulting in a unique complex flavor that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

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• Malate Street Food – Diverse Food Scene in MNL

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Sampaloc: Manila University Belt Food Hub

• May 23, 2023

Ann Ginette Marpa

• Cheap Eats City Guide Food Reviews
• Anather Travel Show AnatherTravelShow D'Cream Eat Food Food Blog Food Vlog Foodie Macktails Manila Manila Food Manila Streetfood Manila University Belt Manila University Belt Streetfoods University Belt University Belt Streetfoods Yummy

The University Belt in Manila is a popular destination for students, tourists, and locals alike. It’s known for its world-class universities, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene. However, it’s the food scene in the area that truly sets it apart. From street food to cafes and restaurants, the University Belt has it all. One of the reasons why there are so many food options in the University Belt is due to the large student population. Students are always looking for affordable meal options that won’t break the bank, which has led to the growth of the food scene in the area. Many street food vendors and cafes in the University Belt offer student-priced meals that are both delicious and budget-friendly. One of the most popular areas in the University Belt for street food and cafes is P. Noval Street.

P. Noval Street

This lively and bustling street is known for its wide variety of food options, ranging from traditional Filipino street food to trendy cafes and restaurants. For those who prefer a more traditional street food experience, the street vendors on P. Noval Street of University Belt offer a wide variety of options, including fish balls, kikiam, and kwek-kwek. These snacks are perfect for anyone looking for a quick and affordable bite to eat while on the go. The aroma of frying oil and the sound of sizzling skewers never fail to entice me, and I often find myself stopping by for a quick bite. Moreover, on one of my food adventures, my friends and I stumbled upon a bakery that sells delicious pastries. The aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries wafted through the air, and we couldn’t resist checking it out. We also ended up trying their pilipit pastry.

Fun Merienda!

The flaky and slightly sweet pastry, with its spiral shape and crispy exterior, was simply divine. It was the perfect mid-day snack that kept us going. We also stumbled upon a chicken skin stall, which just opened when we passed by. We decided to give it a try and were blown away by the crunchiness and flavor of the chicken skin. It was definitely worth the wait. The smell of the frying chicken was mouth-watering, and we were excited to try it. It would have been even better if they had some pinakurat vinegar to pair it with, but nonetheless, it was still a satisfying treat.

Aside from the savory treats we tried, we also tried a beverage store called D’Cream. They offer a range of drinks from P65 to P120, and we were curious to try some. We opted for their bestseller, the Golden Sun, which was priced at P85. Moreover, the creamy and refreshing taste of the drink was a perfect complement to the hot and humid weather. The combination of orange, mango, and milk also created a unique and satisfying flavor that made us want to try more. We also appreciated that the prices of their drinks were reasonable. Making it an ideal spot for students who are on a budget but still want to indulge in a refreshing beverage. If you’re in the University Belt and looking for a place to quench your thirst, make sure to check out D’Cream.

If you’re looking for a refreshing and alcohol-free beverage, look no further than Macktails. Located in I. Delos Reyes St. corner G. Tolentino St. in Sampaloc Manila, this small stall is just a stone’s throw away from P. Noval, making it a convenient spot for students and locals alike. The name “Macktails” is a clever play on words. Combining “mocktail” with the name of the owner and street bartender, Mcflyn. Mcflyn is a passionate mixologist who got into creating handcrafted beverages. Just four years ago and started this small business just last year. When we visited Macktails, we tried their best-sellers, the Yema Affogato, Rosy Pear, and Amarone Ice Tea. Each drink was priced from Php 85 to Php 115 only. Which is a great deal considering the quality and taste of the beverages.

The Yema Affogato is a delightful mocktail that combines the rich flavors of yema, a popular Filipino candy, with espresso. Served in a glass with a layer of yema at the bottom, topped with a shot of espresso and whipped cream. It’s a rich and indulgent treat perfect for coffee and sweet treats lovers. Furthermore, the Amarone Ice Tea is a refreshing and fruity mocktail that combines black tea, peach and grape juice, and a hint of lime. Served over ice, it’s a slightly sweet and tangy tea with a refreshing finish. Perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day.

Out of the three mocktails we tried, my personal favorite was the Rosy Pear. It had a delicate balance of sweet and tangy flavors. With a subtle hint of rosemary that added an extra dimension to the drink. Moreover, if you’re looking for a refreshing and delicious mocktail in the University Belt area, Macktails is definitely worth a visit. They are open from Monday to Saturday, from 4 PM to 11 PM. Whether you’re a student looking for a quick break from studying or a local looking for a unique drink experience, Macktails is the perfect spot to quench your thirst. If you’re looking for more places to try in the area, check these out also:

• Bulalohan sa Laon Laan – The Best Bulalo!
• FUNdemic Food StrEAT Market in Manila

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Five new must-visit food spots around UST 

THE PANDEMIC turned them into ghost towns for more than two years, but with the lifting of mobility restrictions, the streets of Manila have become bustling again, brimming with students who are looking for a good meal after hours of school work.

While some food shops around UST shuttered for good during the height of the health crisis, new ones have sprung up, waiting to be discovered by Thomasians.

The Flame visited five new cafes and restaurants near the University for you to try on your next food trip.

Mang Larry’s Isawan

The famous isawan in the University of the Philippines Diliman that has been satisfying the street food cravings of the iskolars ng bayan since 1984 has finally opened a branch near the home of the growling Tigers.

Mang Larry’s Isawan is famous for its grilled intestines and special vinegar but it has also become a one-stop for Filipinos street food as it also offers kwek kwek or fried quail eggs, fishballs, squid balls,  chicken balls, cheese sticks, hotdog, chicken pop, dynamite or green chili rolls and instant pansit canton.

As Thomasian alumni, Convencido and her partner have always wanted to open a branch near UST after their graduation.

“There are not many barbecue stalls here in Dapitan, so [in college], we often eat at stalls in P. Campa,” she said.

Convencido found a spot for lease in the Dapitan area, a known eatery haven. The goal, Convencido said, is to show the Thomasian community why Mang Larry’s barbecue is so well-loved.

During the first few days of their soft opening last November, their staff were overwhelmed by the swarm of people who endured long lines to try their best-selling isaw. Compared to other barbecue stalls around the area, Mang Larry’s takes pride in its thorough cleaning process and food preparation. The meat used for its grilled offerings is washed three times, boiled, marinated, skewed, and then grilled.

Unlike the typical Filipino grilled isaw, Mang Larry’s does not have that orange-colored hue in their skewers and its offerings are visibly larger compared to those sold in the streets.

Its best-sellers include isaw manok, isaw baboy, and special isaw baboy—sweeter with a different ruffled texture than the regular isaw baboy. Another crowd favorite is their grilled goto, which is grilled ox tripe, typically found in porridge. To balance out the char, its spiced vinegar perfectly complements the skewers—no onions, cucumbers, nor chillies. It is straightforwardly delicious with just the right amount of spice and a tad bit of sweetness. Some customers even mix them up with rice like soup, or drink it straight from the cup.

Mang Larry’s Isawan is located at 2nd Floor, FuseBox Lifestyle Complex, Asturias St., Dapitan, Sampaloc, Manila

Chingu Dachi Cafe+

Located just a few blocks away from the University, this Korean-inspired coffee shop is not your average minimalist cafe. Chingu Dachi first started as a K-pop collectible store, but owner Ed Margareth Barahan-Acayan has always wanted a collectible store and a coffee shop merged into one.

“Bringing fans together is something I’ve always wanted to do, but I don’t want the cafe to be tagged as ‘K-pop’ cafe, since I also want other people, not just K-pop fans, to enjoy the cafe’s offerings,” Barahan-Acayan said.

Chingu Dachi Cafe+ first opened in Sta. Mesa, Manila in 2020, but moved to Sampaloc, Manila last December.

Setting foot at the cafe was like a K-pop lover’s dream. From the left part, you could see its stores selling K-pop albums, lightsticks, photobooks, photocards, lightsticks, among other merchandises. On the right side was its cafe, warmly welcoming with a hint of bold colors, contrasting the typical white and wood concept typically found in coffee shops nowadays.

The Korean vibe of the place was definitely not an upfront K-pop cafe, just like Barahan-Acayan envisioned. It is a cozy hangout hideaway from the loud and busy streets in Manila.

Chingu Dachi Cafe+’s menu consists of a play with Korean fusion such as Korean pork steak, kimchi fried rice, and doenjang (fermented soybean paste)  pasta, quite similar in taste to truffle pasta, with an earthy and warm taste. Its menu also includes the usual food served in cafes, such as waffles, seasoned potato wedges, salads, and pastries.  For K-pop lovers, the restaurant also offers the famous Inkigayo sandwich, which is commonly seen being eaten by K-pop idols in music bank shows.

The cafe’s drinks vary from iced and hot coffee, ice blended, soda pops, fruit teas, milk tea, non-coffee, and smoothies. There is definitely a drink to try for everyone.  Busan seasalt milk tea is a unique experience, with its floral taste and a hint of saltiness, while its ice-blended white mocha was smooth and creamy, with a subtle taste of coffee, perfect for those who’d like coffee minus the palpitations and all-nighters.

To wrap up the gastronomic experience in Chingu Dachi Cafe+, its cube cakes are the perfect cakes to munch, which are also convenient to take home with their compact packaging.

The ‘+’ in Chingu Dachi Cafe+ remains true to its brand—they offer more than just a quick coffee fix or the latest K-pop collectibles. The overall vibe of the place, together with its food, is definitely worth coming back for.

Chingu Dachi Cafe+ can be found at 2/F 1655 Piy Margal cor. Don Quijote St., Sampaloc, Manila

La Frontera

As you wander through Asturias Street in Dapitan, your eye may easily be caught by the Filipino-Mexican restaurant La Frontera. The interior is as festive as the exterior that made it stand out. It’s a scene straight out of a Mexican street celebrating a fiesta.

La Frontera, literally meaning “the border,” wasn’t the first attempt of the four owners—all of whom met at college—at serving Mexican food. It was their food stall in Taft called By the Border, which only served the usual Tex-Mex fare. As the fad of food parks faded, the stall also closed in 2017.

Justin Chong, a co-owner of La Frontera, said that when they were planning to revive the concept, innovation became their main consideration. That was when the idea of fusing Mexican and Filipino cuisine came about. La Frontera officially opened in July 2022.

All the Mexican favorites are here, of course—nachos, cheese quesadillas, beef tacos. But the highlights of the menu, developed by chefs and co-owners Don Carpio and Cheesy Adao, are the novel dishes that blur the borders between Mexican and Filipino flavors. Kare-kare is reworked into a burrito—stuffed with rice combined with a rich peanut sauce, then wrapped in a warm tortilla with tender pieces of beef and vegetables. It is eaten with bagoong on the side, a tiny detail that completes this nod to a classic. There are tacos and quesadillas filled with adobo, tasting deep of soy sauce but nuanced by a hint of spice.

Even brownies get their twist. Who knew that chocolate and chili worked together? Don’t skip on the drinks, too. La Frontera is one of Manila’s few places to get horchata, and its house-blend iced tea is to come back for.

All the flavors at play are as alive as the fiesta interiors of La Frontera. But if there is a Filipino-Mexican commonality that La Frontera celebrates beyond cuisine, it is the generosity of the people. The place is animated by light conversations from group-filled tables and the service with a smile. It is clear that good food and company are the life of this restaurant, and they are happy you are here.

It is often said that Mexicans and Filipinos are brothers, and at La Frontera, it is obvious why.

Experience La Frontera at 1240 Asturias St., Sampaloc, Manila, 0960 297 9948.

Las Tres Marias

A recent addition to P. Noval Street’s restaurants is Las Tres Marias, which opened in October of last year.

Run by owners Diana dela Cruz and Genesis dela Cruz, Las Tres Marias is the couple’s first branch from the tiny space in their home in San Juan. They have been in business for more than five years, starting as an online food business in August 2018, making them one of its pioneers when it was not yet commonplace.

“Who are three Marias?” is a valid question to ask, especially upon seeing the huge cursive sign in the restaurant’s pink-clad exterior.

“I named it so because we have three daughters,” chef Diana dela Cruz said.

“We started when I gave birth to our third daughter, Soleil.”

Her lasagna started to gain a reputation among her officemates, who often asked for it on special occasions. Her repertoire of dishes has expanded since then, serving cuisines ranging from Italian and Spanish to Filipino. This eclectic mix of cuisines may seem incoherent to the palette, but it is not.

In the French-inspired space awash in a combination of pastel pink and blue, one tastes a range of flavors and textures. The famous lasagna, sweet from the bechamel and sour from the meaty sauce, complements well with the fried chicken that kicks with spice.

The brick oven pizzas are exceptional—generous on the tomato sauce and mozzarella which might ooze out if one does not bite carefully enough—and one cannot help but wonder how the chef achieved the finely charred crust without an actual brick oven. The grilled chicken is smoky to the bone and is a filling meal for students.

Visit Las Tres Marias at 1177 P. Noval Street, Sampaloc, Manila.

Manila Cafe

A few steps away from UST’s P. Noval gate is the home of this newest cafe.

Manila Cafe, founded by PJ Bancosta, has that cozy ambiance unique compared to other stores—including its displayed life-sized Ironman generation suites and unlimited wifi. The place is perfect for those looking for a study or hang-out place.

Marketing director Aramis Nerecina shared that Manila Cafe started as “Sampaloc Cafe” in 2021. According to him, he and his co-owners started the coffee shop because of the hobby of making coffee they developed during the early years of the pandemic.

Instead of continuing to order from other shops, he said: why not start our own? This is when they decided to expand their business and rebrand it as Manila Cafe in 2022.

Among its bestsellers are the coffee cold brew, iced white mocha (made of coffee and white chocolate syrup), and matcha latte (a concentrated tea made with green tea ‘matcha’ powder and steamed milk). All its beverages are created with distinct syrups and professional baristas who improve its customized drinks. Manila Cafe’s pizza, its main food, is named after places in Manila such as Intramuros, Paco, Malate, and Quiapo.

The place is appealing not only to the taste buds but also to the sense of sight. The three life-size Ironman figures will surely catch your attention and somehow bring you back to your childhood. According to Nerecina, a Marvel fan, the display came from his personal collection.

While the Iron Man figures is one of the attractions of the cafe, its owners are planning to remove the Marvel concept in the future and replace it with decorations that will show the aesthetics of the capital city while maintaining the cozy vibe they introduced to the public.

Nerecina admitted that opening the cafe involved taking risks as the UST decided to resume onsite classes gradually. But the risk was worth it as Manila Cafe has become a popular hangout among Thomasians.

“We love making guests comfortable […] it’s a good feeling for me,” Nerecina said.

Try Manila Cafe’s coffee and pizza at Annie’s Place Building, 1015 P. Noval Street Sampaloc, Manila. F – Eugene Paul Lorenzo and Johanna Leelan Gee with reports from Edrisse Dela Cruz 

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Wang Pau Samgyupsal | Affordable Korean Grill at Quiapo, Manila

Whether you want to admit it or not,  eat-all-you-can samgyeopsal has nearly become a necessity nowadays. May it be a weekend  barkada catch-up, a dinner date, or even a solo food trip—you’ll always find a reason to satisfy your  samgyup cravings!

Just recently, we went to Quiapo Manila to try another  samgyup place, but with more affordable price. Wang Pau Samgyupsal caters to Korean BBQ junkies looking for budget-friendly offerings without having to sacrifice the quality.

Food & Price — Wang Pau Samgyupsal

Wang Pau Samgyupsal offers unlimited pork, beef, and side dishes with rice, lettuce, and egg stew. They have a total of 8 kinds of pork and beef which you will get when you avail their Unli 499. If you prefer pork only, you may avail either Unli 399 (4 kinds of pork) or Unli 299 (plain pork).

But I suggest you go for their Unli 499 so you could try their beef meats especially their Beef Bulgogi which was my personal fave! Herb Samgyup (Pork) was heavenly as well! This honestly is one of my  favorite Korean Grill in town!

Among the side dishes, my fave were the chunks of sweet potatoes (I don’t know how they officially call it) and of course, their kimchi . I loved that the fresh lettuce leaves were not too small and not too large for  samgyup wrappings.

Their Cheese Sauce was also great! Just add 55 Php to have it as much as you want! I appreciate that the grilling pan had 3 divided sections for meat (center), cheese, and egg stew. It’s a non-messy way of grilling meats while heating the cheese and egg stew at the same time!

The fact that you could have  unli Korean BBQ for as low as 299 Php certainly looks so enticing! A price that attracts both budget-conscious adults and students alike. The restaurant is surrounded by schools, colleges, and universities so no wonder why they offer such a low price.

Another awesome part, there’s no time limit! And if you ever want to dine alone you can do so as there’s no minimum number of people required!

They also have an ongoing 5+2 promo wherein for every group of 7 people, 2 of them gets to eat for FREE! Promo runs until September 30, 2019 only.

Wang Pau Samgyupsal is strategically located at San Rafael St. Quiapo, Manila. It’s at the second floor beside Mad Mouth Foodpark U-Belt. Nearby schools are Centro Escolar University, La Consolacion College, San Beda University, and Victorino Mapa High School among others.

Address: 2nd floor, 2180 Legarda corner San Rafael, Quiapo, Manila

How to get there? Board an LRT Line 2 and alight at Legarda Station. Wang Pau Samgyupsal is just a 5-min walk from Legarda Station.

Other Branches: Intramuros Branch: 2nd Floor 731, Victoria St., Intramuros, Manila P. Campa Branch: 1080 P. Campa St., Sampaloc, Tondo, Manila UST Branch: 1224 Santander St., corner Dapitan, Sampaloc, Manila

This is not the roomiest samgyup place there is, but expect a clean and comfortable area. It has around 50-60 seating capacity. The area is fully airconditioned but I think it’s better to have exhaust tubes installed above each griller to save the customers from smelling like grilled meat.

The interiors are at its simplest, I mean, literally no designs and personal touches at all. But it should not be a problem if you only intend to eat and nothing else. The food I guess is instagrammable though.

I was impressed by the fact that the staff are truly knowledgeable about the restaurant especially in their menu. If there’s anything you want to clarify they readily know what to say.

I also find them attentive as they are prompt in accommodating customers’ requests such as refilling the dishes. They also looked neat and clean which for me is as important as the cleanliness of the place.

Contact Details

For more information and updates, you may contact them via:

Mobile Number: 0906 406 0173

Facebook Page: Wang Pau Samgyupsal

Instagram: @wangpausamgyupsal

More photos!

How I’d rate this resto

Acknowledgement: Thank you Ms. Apryl of Hungry Byaheros for inviting us, and Wang Pau Samgyupsal for having us! Disclaimer: While our meals were courtesy of the owners, all opinions expressed in this post are my own honest thoughts and are not influenced or controlled by anyone.

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Hi, I'm Dea! A traveler who loves good food and an electronics engineer based in PH. I like creating itineraries and daydreaming about the places. As weird as it might sound, I find the planning part as enjoyable as the trip itself. I love sunsets, beaches, and staycation trips. And I'm a worshipper of God—the source of my everything! I once wandered aimlessly in life, until Jesus found me! Now, I just wander around wonderful places as I marvel at His creation ❤️

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Break time at España: 6 Budget-Friendly and Sulit Food Thrills in the Area (Perfect for Students, too!)

Want to go on a gastronomic rollercoaster in the heart of Manila’s vibrant Espa ñ a district? 

Brace yourself for a delicious journey through budget-friendly delights that will tickle your taste buds without emptying your wallet. 

From unlimited food options to international cuisines, you’d find cheap food thrills await, promising a taste adventure that’s as delightful as it is easy on the pocket. Let’s go!

1. Kanto Tayo 

Care for some unlimited chicken + pasta + pizza + dumplings + sausages + rice + drinks for only P339/head? Then head over to Kanto Tayo. 

“Let’s go to the corner” is the rough translation of this restaurant’s name, which could be a reference to Filipino street food vendors that normally are located on street corners.

Aside from their unlimited sets, the resto also offers student meals like chicken with rice for only P100. The generous serving truly makes it worth every peso!

📍812 Moret Street, Sampaloc, Philippines, 1008 Facebook | Kanto Tayo | Manila

2. Quesarito

For your Filipino-Mexican food cravings, best head over to Quesarito where you’ll find staple Mexican food like quesadillas, chimichangas, and tacos, among others. 

Some of their bestsellers include Quesadilla for Php230 (Good for 2) and Burritos – Php250 (Good for 2).

You may also want to try their new offerings such as the Quesarito, your choice of burrito and quesadilla in one (Php400), Chimichangas for Php230 (Good for 2). 

If you’re still hungry after trying these Mexican dishes out, then why not indulge in some unlimited wings. For 319, you’d get to enjoy 8 wing flavors and finish as many as your tummy allows. 

📍 981 P. Noval cor. Delos Reyes, Sampaloc, Manila 🕣 Wednesday to Monday, from 3PM to 11PM Facebook | Quesarito

3. Shawarma sa Dapitan

Shawarma sa Dapitan is perfect for students around the area because of their generous serving with an affordable price. They are famous for their big and boneless chicken. 

Their generous serving is definitely worth the rave and the hype! Mind you, they don’t scrimp even on the sauce! 

Bestsellers:

• Chicken shawarma rice – Php100
• Boneless Fried Chicken with Shawarma Double rice – Php.140
• Pita Shawarma – Php70

📍1621 Dapitan Street, Manila Facebook | Shawarma sa Dapitan | Manila

4.  Kantina Manila

The perfect spot for students because of its affordable price range, Kantina Manila is known for offering a wide range of local and international comfort food and dishes. 

Name it, they have it. They offer all day breakfast for P70-P120 only, burgers for only P40-P60, and pizza for only P60, among others. 

They also have short orders of viands like shortrib sinigang, beef caldereta, and pares (P140 each order). 

For students (and basically anyone) who are on a budget who want a filling breakfast, lunch, merienda or dinner, this is the perfect place to go to. 

📍1037 G. Tolentino St, Sampaloc, Manila, 1008 Metro Manila, Manila, Philippines, 1008 Facebook | Kantina Manila

5. Yoshimeatsu UST

Yoshimeatsu serves unlimited yakiniku for only P549. Yakiniku is the Japanese version of samgyeopsal. Here, you have up to 24 meats and seafood to choose from plus 19 side dishes, all unlimited for a set price. 

The best thing about this place is that they never run out of promos. One of which that many people vie for was the Samurai Seafood Piso Upgrade. For only an additional of 1 peso, you may enjoy unlimited scallops, fresh shrimps, salmon chahan, and tuna. 

They also offer a birthday promo of 7+1, and because they’re located at the university belt, a student promo is called for!

📍 861 P. Campa Street, Manila, Philippines, 1008 Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/yoshimeatsuUST

6. MANG TOOTZ Foodhouse

Mang Tootz Food House is an OG in terms of food stops in University of Sto. Tomas in Manila. Known for its no-frills vibe, this small restaurant offers short-orders of Filipino dishes like sisig, dinakdakan, inihaw na liempo, and bopis. Their set menu differs per day, so there are days when they prepare meals with chicken with hoisin sauce, beef bulgogi, chicken kebab, etc. 

But more than these dishes, Mang Tootz is best known for its Banana-Rhuma. Think turon but on the next level. They sell it by 15pcs for P90, 20pcs for P120, and 100pcs for P600. Definitely a sweet snack you wouldn’t want to skip!

📍 1135 P. Noval Street Sampaloc, Manila, Philippines, 1008 Facebook | MANG TOOTZ Foodhouse | Manila For more travel and food guides all over the Philippines, follow our Facebook and Instagram pages. Want early access to Watatrip ? Sign-up here .

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East Cafe In Sampaloc, Manila Is A Small Coffee Shop Serving <P200 Taiwanese & Chinese-Filipino Food

Taiwanese-Filipino dining spot in Sampaloc, Manila

Traveling outside the country – even if it’s just somewhere two hours away by plane – is still difficult so we need to be extra creative. For those of us who aren’t skilled in the kitchen, we can thankfully turn to restaurants that serve foreign cuisine.

Good news for those from the metro who want to get a taste of Taiwanese food .  East Cafe in Sampaloc, Manila serves Taiwanese and Chinese-Filipino snacks, rice meals, as well as milk tea that Taiwan is known for, each under P200 (~USD3.90) .

Taiwanese recipes

East Cafe serves classic Taiwanese food such as sausage and dumplings which you can enjoy by themselves or with rice.

However, if you want to get something less common, their honma cua pao ( P120, ~USD2.34) – folded steamed buns with pork and fermented mustard greens – is definitely a must-try. They also have other steamed bun sandwiches, including sausage and pork chop ones.

For something sweet, the cafe serves fried mantou (steamed bun) for P60 (~USD1.17) which you can enjoy with condensed milk or chocolate sauce.

Familiar menu items

You can also mix up your East Cafe order and get familiar flavors and Chinese-Filipino food with their Taiwanese recipes.

Though it has Taiwanese flavors, their smoked fried liempo (pork belly) rice (P150, ~USD2.93) will surely satiate your liempo cravings.

You can also get siomai or Shanghai rice from the cafe if you find yourself missing these petsa de peligro staples from your university days.

Bubble tea varieties

It wouldn’t be a Taiwanese cafe if it doesn’t have milk tea, or bubble tea as it’s called in Taiwan.

Aside from Taiwan milk tea, they also have classic flavors such as Okinawa, winter melon, and Assam (black tea). These cost P60 to P70 (~USD1.17 to USD1.37) . You can also get these with rock salt and cheese for a minimal additional fee.

If you’re looking for something new to try, East Cafe offers ice cream milk tea (P85-P95, ~USD1.66-USD1.85) .

East Cafe also has teas and fruit teas for those who can’t handle their dairy or simply want bubble tea with fewer calories.

Loft-type space

A narrow, two-story space houses this cozy Taiwanese cafe. It has a few seats on the first floor near the counter, but there’re more in the loft area.

The cafe may not be spacious or have many seats, but this makes it the perfect place for a study date or a relaxing catch-up with friends.

East Cafe offers affordable Taiwanese food

East Cafe does not only save you money by removing the need for a trip to Taiwan to get a taste of Taiwanese food. Their offerings are also wallet-friendly.

If you’re on self-quarantine or simply want to stay in the safety of your home, you can also find their milk tea selections and other menu items on GrabFood, FoodPanda, and JoyRide Mall by searching East Café Maceda.

Address: 1556 A Maceda St, Sampaloc, Manila, 1008 Metro Manila Opening hours: Mon–Fri 12PM-12AM | Sat–Sun 11AM-12AM Telephone: 0917 158 3133 East Cafe’s Facebook | Instagram

More Asian food spots in Metro Manila:

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Cover image adapted from: East Cafe 東區咖啡店 and @_eastcafe

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• Go to Booky

8 Restaurants to Try Around Mendiola’s University Belt

@darleensy @sheonlyeatsplants

U-Belt has a few secret spots you would want to check out.

The university has long been regarded as the home of a number of schools, colleges, and universities, and we all know that where there are students, there is delicious and affordable food as well.

Also Read : Cafes in Maginhawa and Katipunan Area for Your Study Sesh

If you’ve been following our blog then you know that “secret” is not in our vocabulary, so here are 8 food finds you can check ou t when you end up in the ubelt area from chicken shops to cafes, unli Korean barbecue , and more!

Gang Gang Chicken – Recto Ave.

Quickly becoming one of the hottest Korean fried chicken joints in Metro Manila, Gang Gang Chicken offers fried chicken that’s both affordable and delicious . Choose from a variety of flavors like cheesy jalapeno , gangyeom , chipotle bbq , and even honey miso butter !

View website View their Facebook page View their Instagram account 2136 Recto Ave, Quiapo, Manila, 1001 Metro Manila

CUPS – Recto Ave.

Starting as coffee shop in Occidental Mindoro , Cups has opened multiple branches in the Metro from Banawe to Diliman , and now at Sampaloc in the u-belt . Cups has a variety of dishes from an all-day breakfast to pasta , tacos , quesadilla , and even steak !

View their Instagram account 2069 Recto Ave, Sampaloc, Manila, 1008 Metro Manila

Manila Cafe – Padre Noval St.

Another cafe on this list, Manila Cafe is a trendy place to get a cup of coffee after class . Aside from coffee Manila cafe also has milk tea , fruit tea , pastries , and the go-to menu item, pizza . We recommend trying the margherita and pepperoni supreme pizzas .

View their Instagram account Anie’s Place, 1015 Padre Noval St, Sampaloc, Manila, 1008 Metro Manila

Hot Star Large Fried Chicken – Recto Ave.

A popular international chicken shop in Taiwan , Hotstar serves different styles of fried chicken all in gigantic sizes . We recommend trying the superstar and original XXL Chicken as well as the barbecue chicken sandwich !

View menu View their Facebook page View their Instagram account 2122 Recto Ave, Sampaloc, Manila, 1001 Metro Manila

The Hashery – Padre Paredes St.

The Hashery is a cafe and co-working space that has refreshing drinks and good food that goes well with their comfortable ambiance. They have several hand-crafted drinks from coffee, and tea, to frappuccinos and smoothies at an affordable price .

View their Facebook page View their Instagram account 944 Padre Paredes St., near UST, Sampaloc, Manila

Vincent’s Place Kambingan Restaurant – J.P. Laurel St.

Vincent’s Place brands itself as the “Kambingan ng Mga Sikat.” They serve goat meat specialties like kilaweng kambing, sizzling adobong kambing with garlic, papaitan, and more. They have an entire wall dedicated to their famous clientele, including a signed frame from Manila’s mayor.

View menu View their Facebook page 1787-A Dr. Jose P. Laurel Sr, San Miguel, Manila

Yoshimeatsu  – Sampaloc

Enjoy an  authentic Yakiniku Japanese grilling experience  when you dine at Yoshimeatsu! From premium cuts of meat to addictive  chicken yakitori  and more, Yoshimeatsu is a surefire recommendation for the seriously hungry.

View menu View all branches View their Facebook page View their Instagram account 861 Padre Campa St, Sampaloc, Manila (0916) 397 9627

Wingvibe – Delos Reyes St.

Come hungry and leave happy when dining at Wingvibe. Not only do they serve a wide range of chicken wing flavor options but they’re also student-budget-friendly .

View menu View their Facebook page View their Instagram account 1222-1224 Delos Reyes St, Sampaloc, Manila

Photo taken from CUPS

Start gathering your friends and schedule this food trip. We love seeing your meals and successful food trips to restaurants you’ve seen, Keep using the  #bookymanila hashtag or tag @bookyapp on Instagram!

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Manila Has Emerged As Asia’s New Culinary Hot Spot Thanks to These 4 Restaurants

Creative young chefs are remaking the Philippine capital's food scene.

Edmar Pineda

On my first visit to Toyo Eatery , the fine-dining restaurant in Makati­ — one of the 16 cities that make up Manila’s larger metro area — it had just been recognized on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list. I’d heard of chef Jordy Navarra’s whimsical takes on classic Filipino dishes, and it didn’t take long for him to make good on this reputation and transport me to my childhood in Manila. 

For the salad course, Navarra created a dish in which dehydrated eggplant “ash,” meant to mimic soil, was crowned with layers of 18 different farm-fresh plants, including peanuts, ginger, tomatoes, and green beans. These were the very same ingredients that I, along with all Filipino children, sang about in the folk song “Bahay Kubo,” which means “stilt house” in the Tagalog language and describes a modest home surrounded by a fertile garden in which anything can grow. I almost asked my server to join me in singing a few lines. But while this reference point is familiar to every Filipino, the dish itself was entirely new. A mosaic of textures created by an unexpected mix of ingredients, the Bahay Kubo salad has become a Navarra trademark.

That was 2018. “No one was really doing what we were doing here in Manila,” Navarra said of the dining scene six years ago. A lot has changed since then, both for Toyo Eatery and the Philippine capital overall. The Bahay Kubo salad is no longer available, but another signature dish on Navarra’s ever-evolving menu is sabaw at mais (broth and corn), which combines a rich, plant-based stock made mostly from vegetable trimmings, subtly sweet corn from the Quezon province, and asin tultul, an unusual rock salt seasoned with coconut milk from Guimaras Island. This is Navarra’s more focused vision for Toyo Eatery: dishes that “introduce the different farmers we work with, along with a flavor profile of the Philippine terroir.”

In the last decade or so, I’ve made it a personal mission to get back to the Philippines at least once a year. Since I currently live in the U.S., a big focus of these trips is reacquainting myself with my old hometown and its expanding culinary scene. One thing that always strikes me when I go back is how bold Filipino food is. If a dish is meant to be salty or sour or sweet, I will know at first bite. 

One spot that caught my attention is Metiz , an industrial-chic restaurant located not 100 feet from Toyo Eatery. Prior to its opening in autumn 2019, French-Filipino chef Stephan Duhesme cooked at restaurants all over the world, including stints in Colombia and New York City. Duhesme told me he and his team are cooking for Pinoys (which is what we Filipinos call ourselves), filtering that global perspective through a distinctly Filipino lens. “I try to understand what we consider to be delicious,” he said. 

Related: United to Become First U.S. Airline to Fly Direct to Manila

One thing is certain, we love rice; we eat it at every meal. So I couldn’t get enough of Duhesme’s bowl of rice cooked with aligé, or crab fat. To really amplify the crab’s briny richness, Duhesme emulsified the dish with smoked egg yolk, which gave it a creamy, umami quality. “We like playing with rice because it’s so versatile,” Duhesme added. “But we always make sure it’s comforting.” 

When I choose to eat Filipino food, it’s because I want to taste the flavors of my culture. But what’s exciting about these new restaurants and chefs is that, while they’re finding new ways to prepare Filipino dishes, many of the flavors remain familiar.

On another trip, I tried Thirdy Dolatre and John Kevin Navoa’s Hapag , which recently relocated from its original Quezon City location to a larger venue in Makati’s Rockwell development. At Hapag, which means “table,” Dolatre and Navoa explore all the possibilities of the Philippine kitchen. Hapag is, according to Dolatre, “a place where guests can truly feel at home and connected to their roots.” OPM (Original Pilipino Music) floats softly out of the speakers, and they even encourage guests to eat some courses with their hands. 

I was thrilled when the duo turned the familiar on its head, as they did with their shrimpy take on kwek kwek, a street-food staple of battered and fried quail eggs. The orange-red exterior (annatto powder is added to the batter) was classic, but once I cut into their version, I immediately realized that it had been transformed into a shrimp-cake-covered Scotch egg. 

I also tried a noodle dish called palabok, which was inspired by the noodles from Jollibee, the homegrown fast-food chain. Palabok is typically characterized by an orange-colored sauce, thanks, once again, to annatto powder. Hapag’s is a lot less orange and a lot more artisanal than Jollibee’s: homemade rice noodles are tossed in a sauce of prawn heads and miso made with gamet, a dried seaweed with a deep, unusual flavor. Smoked fish flakes and crushed pork rinds add texture. Did either of these dishes need to be given a fine-dining upgrade? Not at all, but there’s still a lot of joy — and many fantastic meals — to be had when you see talented Filipinos having fun and reimagining the limits of our cuisine.

Related: How a Chef's Homestay Near Phnom Penh Is Preserving Cambodia's Culinary Heritage

Another frontier Filipinos are looking to conquer is wine. A small but mighty movement has formed to bring natural wine to Metro Manila. One of the pioneers is Joey Osmeña, who launched Bombvinos Bodega, an import business, in Makati in 2020. Its wine bar — a loft-like two-floor space decorated with sculptural wall mirrors and lantern chandeliers and personalized with books and candles hand-picked by Osmeña and his friends — opened in 2023. The drinks menu is categorized by easy-to-understand labels such as “fun and fruity” sparkling and “interesting, juicy, and wild” reds. 

There’s also a food menu created by Don Baldosano, the young chef behind Linamnam, a modern Filipino restaurant in Parañaque. For his consulting gig here, he developed shareable plates that are, by name, identifiably Pinoy, like the rich and addictive tocino — cured pork belly traditionally served with garlic fried rice for breakfast. It paired perfectly with a skin-contact Sauvignon Blanc from Chile that I picked from the “bright and citrusy” orange section. “We’re honored to have piqued people’s curiosity enough to visit,” Osmeña said. And that’s pretty much my approach to eating out in Manila. So far, my curiosity has been deliciously rewarded. 

A version of this story first appeared in the September 2024 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline “ Mealtime in Manila."

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