Join Chef Isi, born and raised in Malabon, for a one-of-a-kind Filipino food tour through one of Metro Manila’s most underrated culinary destinations. Malabon is known for its rich heritage and unique regional cuisine, and there’s no better way to explore it than with a true local expert and chef.
On this immersive food experience, you’ll ride through the city by tricycle or van (depending on group size) and explore beloved neighborhood eateries and hidden gems. You'll make 8-10 stops beginning at the historic San Bartolome Church and others while you enjoy sweet and savory delicacies like soft puto with BBQ pork, Aling Mely's mechado (homage to Isi's grandmother's dishes), Arny & Dading’s famous pichi-pichi, and more.
On Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, enjoy a special treat: authentic Malabon-style lechon (roast pig), available only on these days.
End your journey at Chef Isi’s ancestral bakeshop, Betsy’s, where you’ll sit down for a hearty lunch of classic Pancit Malabon, home-cooked dishes, and refreshing local drinks. Experience the spirit of Naya Naya, the joy of feeding and caring for others, on this unforgettable Malabon food tour.
Perfect for foodies, cultural explorers, and travelers looking to taste real Filipino flavors beyond the usual tourist path.
Isi is happy to accommodate vegetarian guests - please inform her in advance so she can prepare accordingly.
This is just a sample menu to give you an idea of the types of dishes the host cooks. Your menu will vary according to seasonal availability.
1. San Bartolome Church - Begin your tour with a blessing and learn about the religious history of this neighborhood2. Hazel’s Puto - Sample soft, pillowy rice cakes filled with savory BBQ pork3. Anna’s Lechon - Watch traditional Luzon-style lechon being prepared and enjoy a delicious tasting of this iconic roasted pork dish4. Aling Mely’s Carinderia - A beloved local eatery serving authentic Malabon everyday dishes such as mechado, located in the neighborhood where Chef Isi grew up5. Aling Tessie’s Valencia - Enjoy a taste of Malabon’s beloved triangular banana fritters, freshly made by one of the neighborhood’s most iconic vendors6. Rufina's Patis - Learn about Malabon's iconic fish sauce from this historic local brand.7. Arny and Dading’s - Try their famous pichi-pichi, a soft cassava rice cake topped with fresh coconut.8. Concepcion Market - Sample local favorites like okoy (shrimp fritters) and Malabon’s famous kikiam (radish cake with pork).9. Dolor’s Kakanin - Try Sapin-Sapin, a colorful layered rice cake assortment. Malabon is the birthplace of this beloved delicacy.10. Judy Ann’s - Savor crispy pata (pork knuckles), a local favorite!11. Betsy’s - Finish at Isi’s ancestral bakeshop, where you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch featuring the famous Pancit Malabon, homemade dishes, dessert, and refreshing local beverages.You will return to the Fisher Mall at the end of your Manila food tour.Isi has been immersed in the Filipino food world for nearly 20 years. A passionate recipe developer, food stylist, and entrepreneur, she brings deep knowledge and love for local cuisine to everything she does. Isi is the founder of several beloved food brands—Chili Asylum, Haynayan Ketchups, and Eat Matters - all of which celebrate ingredients sourced directly from Filipino farmers and fisherfolk.
Her love for food began in Malabon, where she grew up watching her Nanay (grandmother) cook fresh, hearty meals from scratch each day. Today, Isi is proud to carry on that tradition by showcasing authentic regional dishes and street food through immersive culinary experiences in Manila.
Whether she’s collaborating with other chefs or sharing the rich stories behind Filipino ingredients, Isi brings heart, heritage, and creativity to every bite. Join her for an unforgettable food tour of Manila and discover the flavors that define Filipino culture - through the eyes (and tastebuds) of a true local expert.
