If you’re planning a trip to Manila and craving an authentic taste of Filipino street life, the Makati Street Food Walking Tour with Dinner might just be your best bet. This two-hour guided journey takes you through some of Makati’s most popular open stand halls, revealing the flavors and stories behind the country’s beloved street snacks and desserts. It’s a chance to see local life up close, enjoy delicious bites, and finish the night with a stunning view from a rooftop bar.

What we love about this experience is the intimate group setting — it feels more personal than a large food tour — and the variety of foods that showcase Filipino culinary culture. Plus, the inclusion of a live music atmosphere amplifies the fun. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour isn’t suitable for vegans or vegetarians, so dietary restrictions could be a concern. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy food, culture, and lively local scenes. If you’re eager for a fun, flavorful, and authentic night in Makati, this tour offers great value.

Key Points

Makati Street food walking tour with Dinner - Key Points

  • Authentic Filipino Street Food: Experience a variety of local snacks and delicacies.
  • Cultural Insight: Learn about Filipino eating habits and culinary traditions.
  • Guided Experience: Enjoy the company of an informative local guide, both in English and Tagalog.
  • Evening Atmosphere: Savor dinner with live music and a vibrant street scene.
  • Relaxed Pace: The 2-hour duration allows ample time to taste and explore without feeling rushed.
  • Exclusive Finish: Cap the night with a visit to a popular rooftop bar offering city views.
You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Makati Street food walking tour with Dinner - A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary and Food Tastings

The tour centers around exploring Makati’s lively street food scene, which is a culinary treasure trove for anyone wanting to understand local tastes. You’ll visit open stand halls where vendors serve up a variety of Filipino snacks. Expect to indulge in local delicacies, possibly including barbecue skewers, kwek-kwek (quail egg tempura), and pork or chicken street skewers. The actual menus are customizable, but the focus is on authentic street favorites that Filipinos enjoy daily.

One of the key highlights is the Filipino dessert Halo-Halo, a colorful mix of shaved ice, sweet beans, jellies, fruits, and evaporated milk — a perfect way to cool down and finish your tasting session. As one reviewer noted, the experience offers “delicious food and tapas,” making it a fun, shared experience that encourages tasting and chatting.

The Atmosphere and Ambience

The setting of the tour — open stand halls with live music — creates a lively, inviting atmosphere. This isn’t a sterile restaurant experience; it’s about feeling the pulse of Makati’s street life. The music often adds a festive note, and you might find yourself tapping your foot or humming along as you savor your bites. The group size is generally small, making for an intimate experience where questions are welcomed, and stories about Filipino cuisine are shared.

The Guide and Personal Touch

A highlight of the tour, according to reviews, is the friendly and well-informed guide. One reviewer mentioned, “Mari was full of information, friendly persona, and fun to be around,” emphasizing the value of knowledgeable guides who add context and personality to the experience. The guides also provide photo-op opportunities after dinner, perfect for capturing memories.

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The Rooftop Bar Finale

To wrap up the evening, the tour visits a famous rooftop bar where you can enjoy Manila’s skyline. This is a wonderful way to relax after your street food adventure, offering panoramic views and a different vibe compared to the bustling street halls. It’s an ideal spot for reflecting on your tasting journey or sharing a drink with fellow travelers.

Pricing and Value

At $66 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the dinner, drinks, guide, and the rooftop view. The inclusion of food tastings and a photo-op makes it a well-rounded experience that balances cultural insight, culinary delights, and scenic views. With the option to reserve and pay later, it’s flexible for travelers with unpredictable schedules.

Practical Details and Considerations

  • Duration: Just 2 hours, perfect for an evening activity.
  • Availability: Check with the provider for starting times.
  • Languages: Conducted in English and Tagalog.
  • Not suitable for Vegans/Vegetarians or those over 95 years old.
  • Cancellation: Full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
  • Group Size: Small, personalized experience.
  • Customization: Full-day and private tours are available.

Why This Tour Works Well

Makati Street food walking tour with Dinner - Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is particularly good for food lovers who want more than just a meal — it’s about understanding Filipino culture through its street snacks and desserts. It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate guided insights and enjoy lively atmospheres. The inclusion of a rooftop bar at the end is a bonus, providing a scenic finish to your night.

If you’re looking for a fun, interactive way to discover Makati’s street food scene — without the fuss of navigating unfamiliar streets alone — this tour offers excellent value and authentic experiences.

Who Should Consider This Tour

Makati Street food walking tour with Dinner - Who Should Consider This Tour

This tour is great for solo travelers, couples, or small groups eager to taste and learn about Filipino street food in a relaxed setting. It’s ideal for those who enjoy lively atmospheres, want cultural insights, and don’t mind a menu centered around non-vegetarian options. It’s also a good choice for travelers who want a guided experience with plenty of photo opportunities and a scenic rooftop finale.

Final thoughts:

If you’re after a memorable night filled with genuine Filipino flavors, lively street scenes, and a spectacular view at the end, this tour is a fantastic choice. It combines culinary exploration with cultural storytelling and offers a fun, relaxed atmosphere that feels more like hanging out with friends than a formal tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Makati Street food walking tour with Dinner - Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
No, this tour is not suitable for vegans or vegetarians as it focuses on Filipino street foods that are mostly meat-based.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect evening activity.

Can I reserve my spot now and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your place without paying upfront. Payment is due closer to the date, allowing for flexible planning.

What languages are spoken during the tour?
The tour is conducted in both English and Tagalog, ensuring clear communication and cultural insights.

Is the group size large or small?
The tour is typically small, providing a more personal and engaging experience. Reviews indicate that groups often end up being quite intimate.

What is included in the price?
The $66 fee covers a knowledgeable local guide, dinner and drinks, food tastings, and a photo opportunity after dinner. You also get to visit a rooftop bar at the end.

What should I bring?
Bring an appetite, some comfortable walking shoes, and perhaps a camera to capture the lively street scenes and views.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, the provider offers full-day and private tours if you want a more personalized experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for people over 95 years old, mainly due to the walking involved and the nature of the street settings.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Most travelers rave about the delicious Filipino street food and the lively atmosphere, topped with the scenic rooftop conclusion.

To sum it up, this Makati street food tour is an excellent way to connect with local culture through its flavors and vibrant street life. For anyone who loves food, enjoys lively scenes, and wants a guided, authentic experience, it offers terrific value. Just come hungry and ready to discover the tastes that make Filipino street cuisine so special.

You can check availability for your dates here: