Iloilo: City of Gastronomy
A Taste of Heritage, A Feast of Innovation
In the heart of the Visayas lies a city where food isn’t just a part of life — it defines it. Known for its warm people, historical charm, and rich traditions, Iloilo City has carved its name into the culinary map as one of the UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy. Here, cooking is an art, eating is an experience, and every meal tells a story.
🥣 Rooted in Heritage
Iloilo’s food culture is deeply connected to its history. For centuries, this vibrant city served as a major trading hub, welcoming influences from Chinese, Spanish, and indigenous Filipino culinary traditions. Over time, these flavors blended seamlessly with the Ilonggo soul, giving birth to iconic dishes that are now woven into the fabric of local life.
Take the legendary La Paz Batchoy, a flavorful noodle soup loaded with pork, offal, garlic, and chicharon — first served in the bustling stalls of La Paz Public Market. Or the delicate yet hearty Pancit Molo, a soup of handmade dumplings wrapped in thin Molo paper, lovingly prepared in homes and heritage kitchens.
Each dish is more than just food — it’s a celebration of memory, culture, and community.
🍚 Everyday Excellence
One of the most beautiful things about Iloilo’s food scene is how it thrives in both humble and upscale settings. You can enjoy a mouthwatering bowl of batchoy from a roadside eatery or dine on gourmet interpretations of Ilonggo classics in stylish restaurants. Iloilo doesn’t boast — it simply lets the flavors speak for themselves.
The city also shines with its local delicacies and snacks. From the crisp barquillos and sticky-sweet pinasugbo, to the creamy native baye-baye made with ground rice and coconut, Ilonggo snacks are perfect for “pasalubong” or afternoon cravings. Markets like Arevalo and Jaro Plaza offer a sensory overload of local colors, scents, and flavors.
🥗 Innovation with Heart
While Iloilo takes pride in its culinary traditions, it also embraces change with open arms. Young chefs, bakers, and foodpreneurs are pushing boundaries, offering exciting takes on classic dishes. Think batchoy ramen, ube-coconut fusion desserts, and modern cafés featuring locally grown ingredients from neighboring farms.
Ilonggo cuisine is evolving — but always with a deep respect for its roots. This balance of heritage and innovation is what makes Iloilo truly stand out.
🎉 Festivals, Food, and Community
In Iloilo, food and festivals go hand in hand. During the colorful Dinagyang Festival, the streets come alive not only with dancing and drums, but also with sizzling grills, overflowing trays of native kakanin, and the smell of freshly roasted lechon.
Food is a language of hospitality in Iloilo. Whether you’re a guest in someone’s home or a traveler exploring the markets, you’ll find that Ilonggos take pride in sharing a warm plate and even warmer conversation.
🌍 A Global Culinary City
Being part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network isn’t just a title — it’s a responsibility Iloilo embraces. As a City of Gastronomy, Iloilo promotes sustainable food practices, supports local farmers and artisans, and nurtures a new generation of culinary creatives. It’s about preserving the past, thriving in the present, and inspiring the future.
Through educational programs, food tours, culinary festivals, and farm-to-table movements, Iloilo continues to showcase how food can be a powerful tool for cultural identity, economic growth, and international collaboration.
🍴 Come Hungry, Leave Inspired
Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or simply curious about local culture, Iloilo is a feast for the senses. From comforting bowls of soup to vibrant markets, cozy cafés, and seaside seafood feasts — the city serves flavors you won’t forget.
Here in Iloilo, every bite is a taste of tradition, every meal a story worth savoring.