ILOILO FOOD TRIP

There are so many things to do when you  visit the historic town of Santa Barbara, Iloilo . You will be amazed its beautifully restored church and convent, see one of the biggest Philippine flags atop one of the tallest flagpoles, tee in the oldest existing golf course in the country, explore its attractive plaza, discover the Philippines' only hand-made Belgian lace making facility and so much more. You can also indulge in the town's popular native snacks - baye-baye,  bingka , rice crackers, and more. Quench your thirst with its "mysterious" drinking water that is colored like whisky and "it burns" . But you can also satisfy and fulfill your gastronomic cravings as well as make more Instagram worthy posts when you chase "The Blue Butterfly". Le Papillon Bleu is a "pleasantly comfortable and cozy" restaurant along Hingco Street in Sta. Barbara, Iloilo.

If there's one dish Iloilo is known for, it will all point to Lapaz Batchoy. Born in the market stalls in the district name it carries, this Ilonggo cuisine is a must try when in Iloilo. Netong's Batchoy at Tinda Lapaz And despite the number of batchoyans around the city (and even outside Iloilo), there's no more authentic experience than having it where it started - in the market. Don't worry Lapaz market is among the most organized and cleanest markets in Iloilo despite the chaos the market scene brings, you will still "fresh and clean" after your batchoy experience. Inggo's at The Atrium Mall foodcourt The big 3 when it comes to Lapaz batchoy are Ted's Oldtimer , Deco's and Netong's - Ted's is the largest chain with branches in most parts of the country, Deco's is reputed to be the original and Netong's which capitalized on the surge of social media at the start of the decade. The trending Batchoy ni ...

Talaba (or oysters) are good on their own and usually steamed dipped in sinamak - the Ilonggo spiced vinegar. It can also be served baked with cheese and even an  oyster cake .  Serving it  kinilaw -style is somewhat halfway between "steamed and fully cooked" and still as delicious as it any oyster dish can be! Here's a basic and simple recipe for Kinilaw na Talaba