Marikina, widely known as the Shoe Capital of the Philippines, is also home to a vibrant and diverse food scene that satisfies every craving—from classic Filipino comfort food to modern fusion dishes. A food crawl in this charming city offers an exciting gastronomic adventure that highlights not only the flavors but also the culture and history of Marikina. Whether you’re a foodie, a traveler, or just someone looking for a great meal, this Marikina food crawl will surely be a feast for the senses.
📍First Stop:
Breakfast at Rustic Mornings
A great way to start the food crawl is with a delightful breakfast at Rustic Mornings by Isabelo. This garden café is famous for its cozy ambiance and delicious breakfast plates. Indulge in their fluffy pancakes, crispy waffles, or Filipino-style breakfast meals such as tapa, longganisa, and danggit served with garlic rice and eggs. Pair your meal with a warm cup of coffee or fresh fruit juice to energize yourself for the day ahead.
📍Second Stop:
Pan de Amerikana
After breakfast, head over to Pan de Amerikana, a restaurant known for its giant chessboard, vintage décor, and homey vibe. This place serves the famous pandesal and other traditional Filipino bread, perfect when paired with hot chocolate or coffee. Don’t forget to try their affordable yet delicious Filipino dishes like pork adobo, laing, and sinigang.
📍Third Stop:
Mama Chit’s for a Quick Snack
By midday, it’s time for a quick snack at Mama Chit’s Coffee House, a retro-inspired diner that serves delicious burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes. Their giant cheeseburger and banana split are must-tries. The nostalgic ambiance, filled with vintage posters and memorabilia, adds charm to the dining experience.
📍Fourth Stop:
Lunch at Café Lidia
One of Marikina’s most famous dining spots, Café Lidia, is the perfect place for a hearty lunch. This hidden gem offers a mix of Italian and Filipino cuisine, featuring dishes such as creamy carbonara, baked lasagna, and brick-oven pizza. The warm and cozy setting makes it a great place to take a break and enjoy a delicious meal.
📍Fifth Stop:
Try Local Delicacies at Kapitan Moy
For a taste of history and heritage, visit Kapitan Moy, a historical landmark that houses a restaurant serving traditional Marikina dishes. Here, you can try the famous everlasting, a Marikina-style meatloaf made of ground pork, eggs, and vegetables, as well as waknatoy, a unique Marikina version of menudo with a distinct sweet and savory sauce.
📍Sixth Stop:
Desserts at La Petite Parisienne
No food crawl is complete without dessert! La Petite Parisienne, a charming French-inspired café, offers delightful pastries, macarons, and crepes. You can also enjoy a selection of fine wines, perfect for winding down the afternoon.
📍Seventh Stop:
Afternoon Coffee at The Coffee Project
To keep your energy up, grab a cup of coffee at The Coffee Project. This aesthetically pleasing café is perfect for relaxing while sipping on signature drinks like Vietnamese Latte, Spanish Latte, or Iced Caramel Macchiato. They also offer delicious pastries and cakes if you need another sweet treat.
📍Eighth Stop:
Dinner at Miguel & Maria
For dinner, head to Miguel & Maria, a crowd-favorite known for its cozy atmosphere and generous servings of comfort food. Their barbecue pork ribs, truffle pasta, and grilled salmon are highly recommended. If you’re a fan of steak, their ribeye steak is a must-try!
📍Final Stop:
Nightcap at Industriya Marikina
End your food crawl with a drink at Industriya Marikina, a trendy industrial-themed restaurant that offers a selection of cocktails, craft beers, and wine. Their bacon-wrapped prawns, truffle fries, and cheese platters are perfect for sharing while enjoying the laid-back ambiance.
Conclusion
Marikina’s food scene is a delightful mix of tradition, innovation, and culture. Whether you’re indulging in local delicacies, enjoying comfort food, or sipping on coffee and wine, a Marikina food crawl is an unforgettable culinary journey. So grab your friends, bring your appetite, and explore the flavors of this wonderful city!
