Filipino cuisine is a mix of Asian cuisines with Spanish and American influences. Unlike many other Asian countries, Filipinos use western cutlery rather than chopsticks. Although you don’t go to El Nido for the food, for a small town there is a decent choice of restaurants and bars. The food, in general, isn’t impressive but there are some casual places for a nice meal.
Happiness Beach Bar
Happiness beach bar was our favourite place in the town centre. Their menu is mostly vegan and vegetarian with a few fish options. The food is simple but very nice. Hummus, falafel and pita bread are all homemade, if you like spicy ask for their hot sauce! The place has a nice decor and a chill vibe. If you like lemonade, you must try calamansi juice, it’s delicious.
Address: Serena Street, El Nido, Philippines
Tambok’s
El Nido is very touristy, so it’s hard to find places that serve local food. If you want to try authentic Filipino cuisine head to Tambok’s. It’s located a short tricycle ride from the town centre and Lio Estate. Their menu is short but includes many must-try, traditional Filipino dishes. The service is superb, very helpful and welcoming. We also had a pleasure to meet one of the owners, who is a such a nice and friendly guy. They also have super fast wi-fi. From meat dishes, we recommend trying Adobo, which is a Filipino national dish. Meat is marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, black pepper and other spices, browned in oil, and then simmered in the marinade. Another well-known dish is Chicken Inasal, a Filipino style grilled chicken, served with garlic rice, and orange chicken oil which should be poured over the rice. From vegetarian dishes try Tortang Talong, a Filipino style omelette where grilled eggplants are soaked in beaten egg and fried. It’s served with banana ketchup (yes, banana ketchup does exist :). It’s a popular condiment made from mashed banana, sugar, vinegar, and spices. Its natural colour is brownish, but it is often dyed red to resemble tomato ketchup. Banana ketchup was the Filipino answer to the lack of tomatoes during World War II, causing a shortage of tomato ketchup. As the production of bananas was relatively high in the Philippines, the fruit was used to create a sauce similar to ketchup. Another interesting dish is Ensalada Na Puso, a salad from banana blossoms cooked in coconut milk. You also must try Pancit Buko, a stir-fried coconut noodle. It’s a unique dish in which fresh coconut substitutes regular noodles. The traditional Filippino dessert Turron, the fried banana spring roll with salted caramel sauce is not to be missed.
Address: Barangay Villa Libertad, Taytay-El Nido National Highway, El Nido, Philippines
Artcafe
The Artcafe is a trendy restaurant among foreigners. They have an extensive menu and wi-fi, which I think attracts a lot of people. There is a boutique on the first floor and a restaurant with a nice terrace on the second floor. They also have a small seating area right by the beach, where we liked to sit for a drink as they had quite a few local craft beers on the menu. The food was okay, but don’t expect too much.
Address: Serena Street, Buena Suerte, El Nido, Philippines
Falafel Snack Food
If you are looking for a quick, filling meal, try the wraps from a falafel stand. It’s a very popular place; there are always people outside. For us, the wraps are just okay, the falafel and chicken kebab was good, but we weren’t too keen on the cold flatbread. There is no seating so you can eat on the beach or walk and eat.
Address: Barangay Buena Suerte, El Nido, Philippines
Kina Pards Resto-Bar
Kina Pards Resto-Bar is located in Corong-Corong, a short tricycle drive from El Nido town centre. Their menu is a mix of Asian food, including some Filipino dishes. Andrew really enjoyed the Beef Caldereta, Filipino style beef stew with tomato-based sauce and vegetables. My vegetarian Pancit Bihon, a Filipino noodle dish was simple but very nice. If you like spicy food, ask for a chilli sauce (the one in a small jar not in the bottle).
Address: Corong Corong, El Nido, Philippines
Maremegmeg beach bar
The Maremegmeg beach bar is nice spot to enjoy a cocktail or a fruit shake and some snacks right on the beachfront. It has the holiday atmosphere, chilled vibes and good music. Marimegmeg beach is located only about 5 km from the centre, but it is so much better than the beach in El Nido town!
Address: Marimegmeg Beach, El Nido, 5313, Philippines
The Rooftop
The Rooftop was hands down our favourite bar in El Nido. The beanbags, plenty of cushions and colourful fairy light create a relaxed communal atmosphere. The music was great and mango daiquiris delicious! A perfect place to hang out before the night goes on or all night long 🙂
Address: Hama Street, El Nido, Philippines
