Six restaurants to try in Iloilo: A ‘Biyahe ni Drew’ food trip

Iloilo City has been called “The City of Love”. Indeed—we love their food!

 

With its romantic seaside views and its people’s sweet way of talking, Iloilo has often been called “The City of Love.” But there’s something else that warrants your devotion: their food.

 

Whether you’re into local specialties or international fare, there are plenty of reasons for you—and your stomach—to fall in love with Iloilo. Here are six must-try restaurants in Iloilo, recommended by “Biyahe ni Drew,” GMA News TV’s budget travel show hosted by Drew Arellano:

 

Comfort food: La Paz Batchoy

Anything goes with batchoy. Whichever restaurant you visit, expect a bowl of savory broth and egg noodles topped with pork, beef, vegetables and chicharon.

 

Batchoy’s affordable, too. We recommend Netong’s Original Batchoy (P55/serving), Ted’s Old Timer La Paz Batchoy (P65/serving) and Deco’s Batchoy (P60/serving).

 

There’s a saying in Iloilo that if you can’t finish two servings of batchoy, you’re obviously not from around there. How many can you polish off?

 

Coffee break: Madge Cafe

La Paz Market, Iloilo City

 

Manila can keep its designer coffee shops; the best brew in Iloilo can be found in the La Paz public market.

 

Madge Cafe has been serving strong, native coffee for the past 72 years. Just P20 gets you a warm cup and a front row seat to their barista exhibitions.

The family-owned establishment comes with a dose of cuteness, too: Madge Cafe also makes and stores personalized mugs for their regular customers.

 

Barkada bonding: Tatoy’s Manokan and Seafood

Arevalo, Iloilo City
 

Three hundred pesos seems like a lot to pay for a native roast chicken, but Drew swears Tatoy’s is worth it.

In fact, the 'Biyahe ni Drew' host has been back several times! Be sure to try their fresh seafood as well.
 

 

Merienda: Pat-Pat’s Kansi House

E. Lopez St., Iloilo City
 

If you like bulalo, you’ll love kansi. Iloilo’s version of beef shank stew comes with a kick of sourness unique to the province.

 

Date night: Al Dente Ristorante

General Luna, Iloilo City
 

Al Dente is the oldest Italian restaurant in Iloilo. Here, you’ll find a variety of pasta, but think out of the box and order their Osso Buco.

The Milanese dish, whose name translates to “bone with a hole,” is prepared in the modern style, with braised veal shank and tomatoes.

 

Chill night out: Rooftop Brewery

Small Ville, Iloilo City
 

Rooftop Brewery isn’t your average bar. Aside from the chilled out, quiet atmosphere, Rooftop Brewery is known for serving beers from all over the world.

Drew, who tries local beers wherever he goes, recommends Hoegaarden (Belgian), Hitachino (Japanese) and Grolsch (Dutch).

 

–Cristina Tantengco/PF, GMA News