Binondo Bites Manila Food Tour with 15+ Tastings

Luzon , Philippines

Binondo Bites Manila Food Tour with 15+ Tastings

Active

(2 reviews)

3h - 4h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Navigate Filipino food, the unsung hero of SE Asian cuisine, with 15+ tastings during a food tour of historic eateries in the world's oldest Chinatown. Binondo churches, temples and dragon lamp posts meets dim sum houses, panciterias and family-owned restaurants.

Available options

Binondo Bites Manila Food Tour with 15+ Tastings

What's included

Moveable feast with 6-7 stops around the streets of Binondo, Manila

Max 8 exclusive guests, smallest group size in Manila (private tour or 9+ guests - contact us)

15+ food tastings included, more than any other Manila food tour

Bottled water included

Led by professional foodie guides

Detailed itinerary

Our lunchtime food tour invites guests on a culinary experience around Binondo, Manila. It's a carefully curated food adventure, led by our team of professional food guides.

Before we get started, our tour reflects the local cuisine, & the limitations of street food vendors means we unfortunately cannot cater for every dietary restriction. Here's an honest appraisal for the tour, so no-one is disappointed:
✘ Unsuitable for vegetarian diets sorry, as there would be 4-5 less tastings.
✖️ Unsuitable for severe allergies, halal and celiac diets, due to the risk of traces & cross-contamination.

If you are feeling adventurous for a foodie journey, read on!

Meet our food-obsessed host in a historic cafe, as we deep dive into the culinary marriage of historic Filipino and Chinese cuisines, in the worlds oldest Chinatown. With 15+ tastings along the way, from steaming dim sum piled in bamboo stacks, to fresh lumpia rolls brimming with heart of palm vegetables. Rice creamy Filippino stews like afritada and Bicol Express, and stir-fried pancit noodles, sizzling sisg and a big scoop of halo-halo, amongst many more delicious surprises on this food adventure through the ages.

On our moveable feast, we'll stop by morning tea houses, Carvajal and Ongpin street food vendors, 100 year old restaurants, and family carinderias to uncover the real Manila foodie scene.

We'll even stop by Binondo Church and a rooftop temple to witness the curious blend of faith and dragons in this eclectic neighbourhood of the capital, a far cry from the modern glassy skyscrapers of Makati.

Don't miss the culinary underbelly of Manila, you'll have a bellyful of memories (and newfound friends), armed with the Filipino food knowledge to continue eating your way around the country.

What's not included

Alcoholic drinks excluded

Pick up and drop off from hotel excluded. Easy-to-find meeting point for all guests.

Vegetarians have 4-5 less tastings due to limited alternatives

Unsuitable for severe allergies, halal & celiac diets, due to risk of traces and cross-contamination

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

See 'What to Expect' section and 'What's Included' for info on dietary restrictions

We recommend comfortable shoes. Bring rain gear/umbrella, if rain looks likely. There's lot of tastings to try, come hungry!

Meeting point

We'll meet inside this historic cafe in the heart of Binondo, your local guide will be waiting upstairs on the 1st floor.

Important notes

"*Ticket:* The guide should have your name on the manifest, please check you have booked the right date and time. We don't need to scan the tickets.

*Telephone number:* Please kindly do not call the telephone number if your enquiry is regarding date changes, cancellations, dietary requests.etc. The telephone number stated is ONLY for emergencies and meeting point arrivals with the guide team on-the-ground. They won't be able to help with any booking-related questions.Please contact directly to A Chef's Tour Customer Support team. Email: info@achefstour.com with your name, for a prompt response.

*Meeting point:* The meeting point is marked on the tour page. Please aim to arrive 10 minutes before the tour start time, so we can begin punctually with the other guests. Manila is surprisingly large, and traffic is unpredictable. Please ensure you leave with plenty of time to order the taxi, and reach the meeting point.

*Taxis:* We recommend downloading the ‘Grab’ app on your smartphone. This is a convenient taxi-hailing app, similar to Uber. You can safely input your desired location and the price is fixed. The payment can be made from your credit/debit card, or cash in the local currency.

*What to bring:*
- We recommend comfortable shoes as the tour involves walking.
- This tour operates come rain or shine. Most eating stops are sheltered, though please carry rain gear/umbrella if rain looks likely, for walking between stops and when visiting some streetside stalls.
- There's lot of tastings to try, come hungry!"

About Luzon

Luzon, the largest and most populous island in the Philippines, is a vibrant mix of bustling cities, serene landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. From the capital city of Manila to the stunning rice terraces of Banaue, Luzon offers a diverse travel experience that caters to all types of travelers.

Top Attractions

Intramuros

Intramuros is the historic walled city in Manila, built during the Spanish colonial period. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a glimpse into the Philippines' rich history.

Historical Half day to full day Moderate

Banaue Rice Terraces

The Banaue Rice Terraces, also known as the 'Eighth Wonder of the World,' are ancient terraces carved into the mountains by the Ifugao people. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer breathtaking views.

Nature Full day to overnight Moderate

Pagudpud Beaches

Pagudpud is known for its pristine beaches and clear waters. It's a popular destination for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Luzon.

Beach Full day to overnight Budget to Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Adobo

A savory dish of meat (usually chicken or pork) marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices, then braised.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian with tofu or vegetables.

Sinigang

A sour tamarind-based soup with meat (pork, shrimp, or fish) and vegetables.

Soup Vegetarian versions are available.

Halo-Halo

A popular shaved ice dessert with a mix of sweet beans, fruits, jellies, and evaporated milk.

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options are available.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Banaue Rice Terraces Exploring Taal Volcano Beach hopping in Pagudpud Spa treatments in Manila Visiting Intramuros in Manila Exploring the museums in Makati Snorkeling and diving in Pagudpud None

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips.

24°C to 32°C 75°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Filipino, English
Widely spoken: English, Tagalog
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Philippine Peso (PHP)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Luzon is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid petty crime and scams.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps like Grab.

Getting there

By air

Ninoy Aquino International Airport • 7 km from Manila city center

By train

Tutuban Station

By bus

EDSA Cubao, Pasay

Getting around

Public transport

Jeepneys are a popular and affordable mode of transport, especially in urban areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Makati Intramuros Banaue

Day trips

Baguio

250 km from Manila • Full day to overnight

Baguio, known as the 'Summer Capital of the Philippines,' offers cool weather, beautiful landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage.

Taal Volcano

80 km from Manila • Half day to full day

Taal Volcano is an active volcano with a stunning crater lake. It offers a unique adventure experience with a horseback ride and a short hike to the crater.

Festivals

Sinulog Festival • Third Sunday of January Pahiyas Festival • May 15

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in the local language to enhance your travel experience and connect with locals.
Use ride-hailing apps like Grab for convenient and safe transportation.
Carry cash, as not all establishments accept credit cards, especially in rural areas.
Dress appropriately for the occasion and respect local customs and traditions.
Be cautious of your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.