Dinagyang Festival is more than just vibrant street dancing; it’s a feast for the senses, especially your sense of taste! From bustling food stalls to hidden family-run eateries, Iloilo City offers a diverse gastronomic scene.
If you are tired of the usual tourist traps, this guide will take you on a culinary adventure, revealing the local favorites and hidden gems where you can savor the best of Ilonggo cuisine during the festive season.
The Dinagyang Food Festival Areas
During Dinagyang week, the major streets of Iloilo City are transformed into a gastronomic paradise. Countless food stalls and vendors are lining up, selling a wide array of Ilonggo delicacies.
This year, explore and savor authentic flavors, and vibrant culinary scenes along the streets of Muelle Loney and Bonifacio Drive, Solis, Delgado, Iznart, and Mapa.
Roberto’s
📌J.M. Basa Street
Renowned for its iconic Queen Siopao, Roberto’s is a beloved food destination for both locals and tourists. Be prepared for a line as this popular spot attracts a steady stream of hungry patrons.
Must-try: Siopao, Meatballs, Chicken Bihon, and Lumpia
Dainty
📌Iznart Street
With a history spanning generations, Dainty Restaurant remains a beloved Ilonggo institution. Their pancit sun yat-sen and bread have captivated taste buds for decades, a testament to their enduring culinary legacy.
Must-try: Siopao, Pancit Sun Yat Sen, Pan De Leche, and Siopao
Master Chua
📌J.M. Basa Street
While a relatively new addition to the culinary scene, this restaurant has quickly become a favorite for its authentic Chinese dishes. The “turo-turo” style allows you to easily choose from a tempting display of freshly cooked dishes.
Must-try: Fresh Lumpia, Dumpling, Machang, and Chami Soup
Buho Bakery
📌Mapa-Ortiz Alley
A true “hole in the wall,” Buho Bakery is a local gem where you can find freshly baked pandesal, their signature pancho, and other beloved Ilonggo pieces of bread.
Must-try: Pancho, Pandesal, Ube Bread, and Puding
Los Filipinos Bakery
📌Iznart Street
Los Filipinos Bakery, a time-honored institution in Iloilo City, may not boast a trendy aesthetic, but it more than makes up for it with its consistently delicious slices of bread and biscuits, freshly baked daily.
Must-try: Pandesal, Pandeciosa, and Ensaymada
JR Rawit’s Native Lechon Manok
📌Iloilo Central Market
If you’re craving authentic Ilonggo flavors, JR Rawit’s is the place to be. Known for its mouthwatering lechon manok and other inasal options, JR Rawit’s has become a household name. Expect a flavorful feast with their signature charcoal-grilled chicken, perfectly marinated and cooked to juicy perfection.
Must-try: Whole Native Lechon Manok, and other Inasal options
Popoy’s and Mia’s Batchoy
📌Iloilo Central Market
If you’re looking for Batchoy, the Central Market is a good place to start. You can find many shops there serving this Ilonggo soup including Popoy’s and Mia. The Central Market is a home to several eateries, and these two of the most popular spots offer a truly authentic Ilonggo batchoy experience.
Must-try: Batchoy
Kamsukkee
📌J.M. Basa Street
While the name has changed from Kong Kee to Kamsukkee, this beloved Chinese restaurant continues to thrive. Renowned for its diverse menu, particularly its pancit and siopao, Kamsukkee remains a popular dining destination.
Must-try: Toasted Bihon, Siopao, Yang Chow, and Chasio
Dinagyang Refreshment Siopao
📌Marymart Center
More than just a place to eat, Dinagyang Siopao is a nostalgic experience. This beloved local institution offers a glimpse into the past with its vintage decor, including retro signage and old-fashioned condiment bottles.
Must-try: Siopao and Batchoy
Glor’s Burger
📌Ledesma Street
Step back in time and savor a taste of Ilonggo culinary history at Glor’s Hamburger. This iconic eatery has been serving up delicious burgers since 1974, and while they’ve added new menu items, their classic burgers remain a beloved tradition.
Must-try: Burgers
Krystal Ice Halo Halo
📌The Atrium
Since 1996, Krystal Ice Halo Halo has been an Ilonggo institution, serving up refreshing halo-halo year-round. Defying the notion that halo-halo is just a summer treat, Krystal Ice Halo Halo offers a delectable menu of this beloved Filipino dessert, perfect for any time of year.
Must-try: Halo-Halo
Iloilo Bird House
📌Valeria Street
Tucked away on Valeria Street, Iloilo Bird House is a charming little spot known for its delicious thin-crust pizzas, delectable cakes, and an array of tempting pastries. This cozy eatery offers a delightful escape for a casual meal or a sweet treat.
Must-try: Thin Crust Pizza, Pancit Palabok, and their Beehive
Experience the vibrant energy of the Dinagyang Festival safely and comfortably. Travel to Iloilo City from EB Magalona and Guimaras with FF Cruz Shipping and immerse yourself in the festive spirit. With FF Cruz, you can travel with peace of mind. Book your tickets in advance now and get ready to experience the magic of Dinagyang!
