When it comes to street food, Southeast Asia has some of the most mouthwatering and unforgettable dishes. And Filipino street food contributes to this lineup! TasteAtlas, a popular online food guide that celebrates traditional dishes, recently dropped its list of the 100 Best Southeast Asian Street Foods, and several Filipino favorites made the cut.
Let’s dive into the Filipino street foods that made it to the list, why they’re so beloved, and why you need to try them on your next trip to the Philippines—or even at a local Filipino food stall near you.
What’s Inside
1. Lumpia
RANK: 21
Ranked 21st on the list of TasteAtlas’ 100 Best Southeast Asian Street Food, lumpia is a Filipino classic that you’ll want to keep eating! These crispy spring rolls are packed with delicious fillings—whether it’s veggies, meat, or a tasty combo of both—and fried until perfectly golden.
Dip them in some sweet chili sauce, or just enjoy them on their own. Either way, lumpia is one of those snacks that’s hard to resist. Perfect for any party or just when you’re craving something crunchy!
2. Bibingka
RANK: 46
We can’t forget bibingka—a cozy, sweet holiday favorite that snagged the 46th spot on the list! This soft rice cake is baked in banana leaves, giving it a slight smoky flavor. It’s topped with butter, sugar, cheese, and sometimes salted egg for that unbeatable sweet-and-salty combo.
Though it’s a Christmas staple, bibingka is delicious any time of year. With its fluffy texture and unique flavor, it’s a must-try whether you’re celebrating or just craving something tasty!
3. Taho
RANK: 61
Got a sweet tooth? Taho, ranked 61 on the list of TasteAtlas’ 100 Best Southeast Asian Street Food, is a morning must-have in the Philippines. Think soft tofu swimming in warm caramelized syrup with chewy tapioca pearls on top. You’ll hear vendors calling “taho!” as they roam the streets early in the day.
This cozy snack is pure comfort, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. It’s guaranteed to make you smile!
4. Kwek Kwek
RANK: 62
Another Filipino fave on the list is kwek-kwek—deep-fried quail eggs in bright orange batter. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, these little guys are dangerously addictive. Despite being super simple to prepare, they’ve got that perfect crunch and flavor combo that keeps you coming back for more. Maybe that’s why they earned a spot on the list!
You’ll find kwek-kwek everywhere, from busy streets to local markets. With its fun look and satisfying bite, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike!
5. Isaw
RANK: 63
You can’t talk about Filipino street food without mentioning isaw. Skewered chicken or pork intestines may sound intimidating, but trust us—it’s a game-changer. Isaw is marinated, boiled, then grilled to crispy perfection. The result? Smoky, savory goodness that’s usually paired with a side of vinegar dipping sauce for that extra kick.
It’s one of the go-to street snacks for both kids and adults, especially in big cities like Manila. It’s so popular that you’ll often see long lines of people waiting to grab some fresh off the grill.
6. Maruya
RANK: 65
Claiming the 65th spot, maruya is a crispy banana fritter that’s hard to resist. Made from saba bananas dipped in batter, fried to golden perfection, and coated with sugar, it’s a sweet and simple snack that never disappoints. Think of it as the ultimate street food dessert!
Just like other Filipino street foods on this list, maruya’s addictive taste is what earned it a spot on TasteAtlas’ Best-Rated Southeast Asian Street Food. Simple but oh-so-satisfying!
7. Pancit Bihon
RANK: 83
Pancit bihon is a Filipino classic that you have to try! These thin rice noodles are stir-fried with fresh veggies, savory meat (pork or chicken), and sometimes shrimp for a delicious flavor explosion.
Perfect for any occasion, pancit bihon is a go-to for family gatherings or just when you’re craving something delicious. It’s even served at celebrations as a symbol of long life.
8. Proben
RANK: 94
If you’re up for something different, try proben! This crispy, deep-fried chicken organ is a unique Filipino treat that’s super tasty. Usually served on a stick with a zesty vinegar dip, proben is crunchy and savory—definitely a snack you won’t want to miss. One bite, and you might just be hooked!
If you’re in the Philippines or just looking to try something new, these street foods are a must! They’re not just snacks; they’re a taste of Filipino culture and everyday life. With its tasty variety and rising global recognition, Filipino street food is ready to shine—one delicious bite at a time!
