Where To Eat In Tacloban

When traveling to a new city, one of the most exciting aspects is discovering the local culinary scene. Tacloban, the vibrant capital of Leyte in the Philippines, is no exception. With its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty, Tacloban is a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be explored. In this guide, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey to uncover the best places to eat in Tacloban, from traditional Waray cuisine to modern twists and international flavors.

Overview of Tacloban’s Culinary Scene

Tacloban’s culinary landscape is a reflection of its cultural diversity, with influences from Spanish, Chinese, and American cuisines. The city is famous for its seafood, fresh from the waters of Leyte Gulf, and its traditional dishes, such as tinola (a ginger-based chicken soup) and sinugba (grilled pork). From casual eateries to upscale restaurants, Tacloban offers a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget.

What to Expect in this Guide

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the top recommendations for where to eat in Tacloban, including must-try restaurants, cafes, and food stalls. We’ll cover everything from local specialties to international cuisine, and provide insider tips on the best times to visit, what to order, and how to get there. Whether you’re a foodie, a traveler, or simply looking for a culinary adventure, this guide is your ultimate resource for discovering the flavors of Tacloban.

Where to Eat in Tacloban: A Foodie’s Guide

Tacloban, the capital city of Leyte, is a treasure trove of culinary delights. From traditional Filipino dishes to international cuisine, Tacloban offers a wide range of dining options that cater to different tastes and budgets. In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey to the best places to eat in Tacloban.

Traditional Filipino Cuisine

Filipino cuisine is a fusion of different cultures, including Spanish, Chinese, and American. In Tacloban, you can find authentic Filipino dishes that are both delicious and affordable. Here are some must-try restaurants:

• Olutaya Kayu: This local eatery serves traditional Filipino dishes like sinigang, lechon kawali, and chicken inasal. Their menu is simple, but their dishes are flavorful and filling.
• Kalui Restaurant: This restaurant offers a variety of Filipino dishes, including seafood, meat, and vegetable options. Their menu is extensive, and their prices are reasonable.
• Barangay Nonoc: This restaurant serves traditional Filipino breakfast dishes like tapsilog, longsilog, and bangsilog. They also offer lunch and dinner options.

Seafood Lovers’ Paradise

Tacloban is surrounded by bodies of water, making it a seafood lover’s paradise. Here are some restaurants that serve fresh seafood:

• Seafood City: This restaurant offers a wide range of seafood dishes, including grilled fish, shrimp, and squid. They also have a buffet option.
• Golden Seafood Restaurant: This restaurant serves fresh seafood dishes like steamed fish, seafood soup, and seafood fried rice.
• Tacloban Fisherman’s Wharf: This restaurant is located near the Tacloban Fisherman’s Wharf and offers a variety of seafood dishes, including grilled fish, squid, and shrimp.

International Cuisine

Tacloban is not just limited to Filipino cuisine. You can also find international restaurants that serve a variety of dishes: (See Also: Where To Eat In Fisherman’S Wharf)

• Giuseppe’s Pizzeria: This Italian restaurant serves authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, pasta dishes, and risottos.
• Mr. Kimbob: This Korean restaurant serves a variety of Korean dishes, including bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi.
• Taipei Taipei: This Taiwanese restaurant serves a variety of Taiwanese dishes, including beef noodle soup, oyster omelet, and bubble tea.

Cafes and Bakeries

Tacloban has a growing coffee culture, with several cafes and bakeries that offer a variety of coffee drinks and pastries:

• Coffee Project: This cafe serves a variety of coffee drinks, including espresso, cappuccino, and latte. They also offer pastries and sandwiches.
• The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf: This international coffee chain has a branch in Tacloban and offers a variety of coffee drinks and tea.
• Breadwinner: This bakery offers a variety of bread, pastries, and cakes. They also serve sandwiches and coffee.

Food Courts and Markets

If you want to try a variety of dishes at an affordable price, food courts and markets are the way to go:

• Tacloban City Mall Food Court: This food court offers a variety of dishes, including Filipino, Chinese, and international cuisine.
• Robinsons Place Tacloban Food Court: This food court has a variety of restaurants, including Filipino, Korean, and Italian options.
• Tacloban Public Market: This market offers a variety of street food, including grilled meat, seafood, and vegetables.

Street Food

Street food is a big part of Filipino culture, and Tacloban is no exception. Here are some popular street food options:

• Grilled Corn: Grilled corn on the cob is a popular street food in Tacloban. You can find vendors selling grilled corn near the public market.
• Balut: Balut is a developing duck embryo that is boiled and eaten from the shell. You can find balut vendors near the public market.
• Kwek Kwek: Kwek kwek is a quail egg that is deep-fried and served with a dipping sauce. You can find kwek kwek vendors near the public market.

Food Tripping Tips

Here are some tips for food tripping in Tacloban:

• Try the local specialties: Tacloban is known for its seafood, so be sure to try the fresh seafood dishes.
• Eat at local eateries: Local eateries, like Olutaya Kayu, offer authentic Filipino dishes at an affordable price.
• Visit the public market: The public market is a great place to try street food and buy fresh produce.
• Be adventurous: Try new dishes and flavors, even if they’re unfamiliar to you.

Conclusion

Tacloban is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of dining options that cater to different tastes and budgets. From traditional Filipino cuisine to international dishes, Tacloban has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a leisurely meal, Tacloban’s food scene has got you covered. (See Also: Where To Eat In Marmaris)

So, the next time you’re in Tacloban, be sure to try some of the local specialties and visit the restaurants and cafes mentioned in this article. Happy eating!

Recap

In this article, we explored the best places to eat in Tacloban, including traditional Filipino cuisine, seafood restaurants, international cuisine, cafes and bakeries, food courts and markets, and street food. We also provided some food tripping tips to help you make the most of your culinary adventure in Tacloban.

Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a new dining experience, Tacloban has something for everyone. So, come and explore the city’s vibrant food scene!

Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in Tacloban

What are the must-try dishes in Tacloban?

Tacloban is known for its seafood dishes, particularly fresh grilled fish and shellfish. You should also try the local specialty, “Kinilaw” (a raw fish dish similar to ceviche), as well as “Binagol” (a dessert made from sweetened taro and coconut milk). Don’t forget to try some fresh fruit shakes and smoothies, especially the mango and banana flavors.

Are there any restaurants that serve international cuisine in Tacloban?

Yes, there are several restaurants in Tacloban that serve international cuisine. You can find restaurants that serve Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Western food. Some popular options include Ong Bun Pension House, which serves Chinese and Filipino dishes, and Giuseppe’s, which offers Italian and American cuisine.

What are some budget-friendly dining options in Tacloban?

If you’re on a tight budget, you can try eating at local eateries called “carenderias” or “carinderias”. These small restaurants offer affordable and delicious Filipino dishes, such as “adobo” and “sinigang”. You can also try buying street food, like “batchoy” (a noodle soup) or “barbecue” (grilled meat skewers). Another option is to buy food at the local market, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, and cook your own meals. (See Also: Where To Eat In Seremban)

Are there any restaurants with a nice view in Tacloban?

Yes, there are several restaurants in Tacloban that offer a nice view. One popular option is the restaurant at the rooftop of the Tacloban City Hotel, which offers a great view of the city. Another option is the restaurant at the Leyte Park Resort, which has a beautiful view of the sea. You can also try dining at the restaurants along the waterfront, such as the Tacloban Fisherman’s Wharf, which offers a great view of the sea and the surrounding islands.

Do restaurants in Tacloban accept credit cards?

Some restaurants in Tacloban accept credit cards, but it’s best to check with the restaurant beforehand to confirm. Many restaurants, especially the smaller ones, may only accept cash. It’s always a good idea to have some local currency, Philippine pesos, with you when dining out in Tacloban.