If you’re a food lover, culture seeker, or simply someone craving an adventure in Manila, it’s time to head back to the vibrant streets of Binondo—the world’s oldest Chinatown. This bustling neighborhood is a mix of rich history, iconic flavors, and emerging hotspots that make it one of the most exciting places to explore in the city.
Ready to rediscover it? Here’s the latest Binondo list you should start checking—from heritage food stops to trendy new finds.
1. Ling Nam for That Iconic Mami-Siopao Combo
Still going strong since 1950, Ling Nam remains a classic for a reason. Order their beef wanton mami and the fluffy, flavorful asado siopao—the kind of meal that instantly transports you to old-school Manila.
2. Lan Zhou La Mien for Hand-Pulled Noodle Goodness
Looking for something slurp-worthy? Lan Zhou La Mien serves authentic, hand-pulled noodles in generous portions. Their beef lamien soup is a must-try, especially on a rainy day.
3. New Po Heng Lumpia House for That OG Fresh Lumpia
Tucked in a modest hallway along Carvajal Street, this hidden gem continues to draw foodies for its Filipino-Chinese fresh lumpia—loaded with veggies, peanuts, and savory sauce.
4. Quik Snack for Nostalgic Street-Style Comfort
Located in the heart of Binondo, Quik Snack blends tradition with comfort. Their kiampong, sate beef noodles, and lumpia remain unbeatable. It’s the kind of place where generations of families have shared a table.
5. The Chinatown Bakeshop Trend
Binondo’s classic bakeries are having a glow-up. Be sure to visit Salazar Bakery for their fresh hopia and Eng Bee Tin, now offering trendy spins on traditional pastries—ube, custard, and more.
6. Instagrammable Finds and New Cafés
Binondo isn’t just about heritage eats anymore. Trendy spots like The Great Buddha Café (Eng Bee Tin’s upscale concept) and modern milk tea cafés are adding a fresh twist to the area’s old-world charm. And yes, there are hidden speakeasies too, if you know where to look.
Final Bite
Whether you’re here to revisit your childhood favorites or uncover something new, Binondo is always worth the trip. This ever-evolving neighborhood proves that heritage and reinvention can coexist beautifully—one delicious stop at a time.
