Iloilo City is a chartered city located on the southeastern coast of Panay Island. It has a great location at the mouth of the Jaro River shielded by the offshore Guimaras Island. Iloilo City is considered the commercial center of Panay Island and regional hub for sugar exports.
Must-Visit Restaurants in Iloilo City
Forget plain beaches and generic sunsets. When it comes to Iloilo City, the real magic hides on your plate. Dubbed UNESCO’s City of Gastronomy, this vibrant metropolis isn’t just a sun-drenched haven but also a paradise for hungry wanderers searching for the best restaurants in the country.
Forget fast food restaurants and dive into a culinary whirlwind where “seafood restaurants” reign supreme, their platters overflowing with the freshest bounty the ocean yields. Get ready to fall in love with the amazing smells and delicious food Iloilo has to offer!
You’ll taste all sorts of delectable food in the most popular restaurants that will make you want to return for more. From the La Paz market to the riverside boardwalk, you can be assured of mouthwatering dishes.
So buckle up, food explorers, because we’re about to embark on a delicious journey through the “great food” scene of Iloilo! Check out these best restaurants in Iloilo City and experience it yourself!
Dali kag mag kaon ta sa Iloilo!
SEAFOOD RESTAURANTS WHEN VISITING ILOILO CITY
Sun-kissed skin, salty breeze, and the sizzle of fresh seafood on the grill – that’s the magic of Iloilo, where the sea’s bounty meets the locals’ vibrant spirit.
Get ready to sink your toes into the sand (or perhaps, comfy chairs!), soak in the laid-back charm, and let your taste buds dance to the rhythm of Iloilo’s traditional flavors. Here’s a glimpse into some of the city’s great casual seafood havens for the best Ilonggo dishes:
Tatoy’s Manokan and Seafood
Here, your cravings find solace in a symphony of authentic Pinoy dishes. Let your taste buds be captivated by the undisputed star, Tatoy’s famed Native Lechon Manok, using only native chicken. Each bite is a revelation – skin as crisp as autumn leaves, meat as tender as a whispered secret, all infused with the magic of local herbs and spices. Pork ribs barbecued to perfection with green mango as side dish is every food lover’s delight.
But the adventure doesn’t end there. Dive into the depths of Iloilo’s bounty with fresh-from-the-ocean delights. Succulent grilled squids that sing with smoky char, baked scallops blushing with garlic butter, plump “talaba” (oysters) bursting with briny sweetness – each dish a testament to the chef’s artistry and the ocean’s generosity to the Ilonggos.
Fish fillets, pan-fried to flaky perfection, crabs that surrender their sweet flesh under gentle persuasion, and plump steamed shrimps, each a juicy treasure from the sea – all waiting to be discovered.
More than a meal, Tatoy’s is an experience. It’s a celebration of Iloilo’s vibrant spirit, testifying to the magic that happens when fresh ingredients meet skilled hands and generations-old recipes. So, whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious newcomer, come hungry, come open-hearted, and let Tatoy’s Manokan and Seafood paint your palate with the unforgettable flavors of Iloilo City.
Breakthrough Restaurant
“Good food, good ideas, they meet.”
Forget the ordinary meal times, dear wanderer. In Iloilo, there’s a place where good food ignites good ideas, weaving together delightful flavors and inspiring conversations.
With a whopping 4.4 stars on Google, Breakthrough’s online reviews practically shout its praises. But don’t take their word for it – step into the main restaurant near the alluring Villa Beach (almost an hour from Iloilo International Airport) and witness the magic for yourself.
The vibrant atmosphere, buzzing with laughter and lively chatter, sets the stage for an unforgettable gastronomic journey. They also have a branch along the Diversion Road near SM City if you do not want to go far from the city.
And journey it is! Breakthrough is different from your typical eatery. They elevate local delicacies to artistic heights, creating masterpieces on plates that tantalize the eye and the palate. Dive into the succulent depths of “sinugba nga managat,” savor the creamy richness of “ginat-an nga alimusan,” and let the baked diwal melt in your mouth with a divine sweetness.
But seafood isn’t the only star of the show. For landlubbers and those seeking lighter fare, a treasure trove of non-seafood delights awaits. The ensaladang puso ng saging will refresh your senses, the binakol nga manok will warm your soul, and the native lechon manok will awaken your inner carnivore. All this is best enjoyed with a chilling Fresh Buko juice or a creamy mango shake.
And the beauty of Breakthrough? It’s not confined to one idyllic location. Branches sprout like happy blossoms in multiple malls (SM City Iloilo, The Atrium Mall, and Plazuela de Iloilo) around Iloilo City Proper, making it accessible to every hungry adventurer. So, no matter where your Iloilo explorations take you, a taste of Breakthrough’s magic is always close.
So, ditch the ordinary. Seek out the extraordinary. Join the chorus of satisfied patrons and discover why Breakthrough is Iloilo’s hidden gem.
Punot Flavors of Modern Iloilo
Embrace the soul of Iloilo at Punot, where elevated Filipino cuisine dances with breathtaking riverside views and a relaxing ambiance. Nestled alongside the Iloilo Esplanade, just a stone’s throw from the Smallville complex, Punot unfolds like a haven for the senses. It stretches along the Iloilo River, inviting you to linger and indulge.
Step inside and be captivated by the interplay of elegant interiors and rustic charm. Warm wooden accents weave a story of heritage, while sleek modern touches add a whisper of cosmopolitan vibrancy. This is where tradition meets innovation, setting the stage for a truly unique dining experience.
Punot’s culinary artistry shines in all main dishes. Each bite is a symphony of modern Filipino flavors, from their delectable appetizers and crisp salads to hearty main courses boasting local specialties and seafood treasures. Be it the comforting embrace of “binakol nga manok” (chicken soup with coconut milk) or the spicy dance of kinilaw na isda (fresh ceviche), each dish reveals the vibrant soul of Ilonggo cuisine.
And then there’s the seafood. Oh, the seafood! Dive into the succulent depths of grilled tuna belly, savor the smoky allure of inihaw na marlin, or let the sweetness of baked scallops melt on your tongue—every plate whispers of freshness, each morsel a testament to Punot’s dedication to quality.
Of course, no gastronomic adventure is complete without divine desserts. Punot’s modern twists on classic Filipino treats will leave you wanting more. Indulge in the creamy richness of leche flan with mangoes, or surprise your taste buds with the sweet-tart symphony of passionfruit sorbet. To quench your thirst, choose from a selection of refreshing drinks, each perfect complement to your meal.
But Punot is more than just the food. The great service anticipates your every need, the friendly smiles that welcome you like family, and the serene ambiance that washes away the day’s worries. As the gentle river whispers its secrets and the warm Iloilo sun paints the sky with gold, Punot becomes a sanctuary for the soul.
So, whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, Punot is your invitation to discover the essence of Iloilo. Come, linger, and savor the flavors, the views, the warmth.
Let Punot be your gateway to a truly unforgettable dining experience. Apart from being a nice restaurant serving the best food in the city, Punot is also know for its excellent service.
Estancia Chowder
Made light and creamy with mixed seafood, bacon, potato, and balunggay pesto.
Pomelo Balingon
In pomelo, lettuce, Punot’s special vinaigrette, topped with cashew nuts and crispy estancia balingon.
Chicken Inasal Caesar
In romaine lettuce, pandesal croutons, crispy bacon tossed in aligue caesar dressing.
Also, don’t miss some of their unique starter shots: tangigue kilawin shots and shrimp kilawin shots, both cooked in vinegar.
Certainly, there’s much more to mention, but, above all, we should not forget its famous grilled seafood Fiesta — seafood like baked imbao (mangrove clam), crab, and dried fish put together in one dish.
LOCAL FOOD AND SIGNATURE DISHES IN ILOILO CITY
Discover the flavors that Ilonggos preserved throughout generations.
Netong’s Original Special La Paz Batchoy
In the City of Love, nothing sings with the authentic spirit of the place quite like a steaming bowl of this iconic noodle soup.
For anyone with a heart for flavors and a pulse for adventure, Netong’s is a pilgrimage to be noticed. Nestled within La Paz Public Market, Netong’s stands ready to welcome you with 4.3 stars of Google-certified deliciousness and a legacy hailed as the Best Homegrown Ilonggo Cuisine.
But it’s not just the accolades that draw you in. The restaurant whispers its magic. Air-conditioned comfort soothes the tropical heat, while paintings splashed across the walls weave captivating stories of Iloilo’s heritage. Each brushstroke adds a vibrant color to the experience, a subtle hint of the artistic spirit that infuses every aspect of Netong’s.
And then there’s the Batchoy, with flavors swirling in a rich symphony. Pork organs, pork cracklings, chicken stock, and beef loin meld in a savory round noodle. Each bite whispers of tradition, of generations perfecting this iconic dish.
Don’t be surprised if, with each spoonful, you’re transported beyond the restaurant walls. You might find yourself wandering sun-drenched streets, the aroma of spices a familiar friend. You might hear the laughter of families gathered around steaming bowls, sharing stories and laughter as they bond over this beloved dish.
Netong’s is a bridge to the heart of Iloilo. It’s a taste of history, a celebration of community, and a testament to the power of simple, soulful cooking. So come, lose yourself in the vibrant bustle of the market, step into Netong’s warm embrace, and let the authentic La Paz Batchoy take you on a journey to the very soul of this remarkable city.
Roberto’s
Known as the palace of the original Queen City of the South (now the City of Love), the iconic Roberto’s Restaurant is located along the busy JM Basa Street in the heritage district of downtown Iloilo City.
Amidst downtown, locals rub shoulders with tourists in pursuit of one legendary delicacy: Roberto’s siopao. For over 45 years, Roberto’s has been synonymous with this iconic snack. Here, siopao isn’t just a quick bite; it’s an adventure for the palate. Start with the classic pork siopao, its savory filling melting on your tongue like a symphony of spices. Or, for the bold, embark on a fiery journey with the chicken adobo siopao, where tangy vinegar and chilies tango with tender chicken.
But Roberto’s caters to all appetites. The “king siopao” offers a regal feast, its generous size crammed with pork and vegetables. And for the truly adventurous, there’s the legendary “Queen Sipao” – a behemoth of culinary delight brimming with chicken-pork adobo, bacon, Chinese sausage, and a whole egg.
Yet, Roberto’s isn’t a one-trick pony. Tucked alongside the legendary siopao are hidden gems for every hungry adventurer. Slurp through steaming bowls of “pansit,” noodles dancing in a savory broth. Dive into the comforting depths of “sotanghon guisado,” glass noodles glistening with pork and vegetables. Or, grab a crispy “lumpia” for a quick flavor explosion.
At Roberto’s, the atmosphere is as rich as the food. Time seems to slow down as you soak in the vintage charm, the clatter of plates mingling with laughter and lively chatter. It’s a place where the past and present waltz hand-in-hand, where generations share stories and smiles over plates piled high with Roberto’s culinary legacy.
Other Restaurants Worth Your Visit
There’s more that Iloilo can offer! The city still has a selection of restaurants with a romantic, relaxed, or casual atmosphere that you must try. Here are some of them:
The Promenade at Days Hotel
Located on the 4th floor of Atrium Mall in downtown Iloilo
Mrs. Wharton Patries, London Bakes And English Teas
D’Jabez Bldg. 21st Gen. Luna St., Southpoint, Iloilo City
Dova Brunch Café
Old Iloilo Airport Terminal, Airport Rd., Mandurriao, Iloilo City
Farm To Table
Transcom Bldg. Megaworld Boulevard, Iloilo Business Park, Iloilo City
Asian Spoon
Unit 22 & 23, Shops at Atria Ayala Donato Pison Avenue, Brgy. San Rafael, Mandurriao, Iloilo City
Muelle Deli And Restaurant
135b Rizal Street, Lapuz, Iloilo City
The Granary
Ground Floor, Richmonde Hotel, Megaworld Boulevard, Iloilo City
Mango Tree Restaurant
Molo, La Paz, and Jaro, Iloilo City
Y2K Talabahan
Benigno Aquino Avenue, Iloilo City
So, whether you’re looking for fine dining or al fresco, Iloilo City has a perfect spot for you and your hungry tummy.
But do you know what the best and fastest way to enjoy all of this is? Having your own home near these go-to places.
Related: Why Live In Iloilo City?
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