MANILA, Philippines — American magazine National Geographic included the Philippine capital Manila in its "Best of the World 2026" list, highlighting its diverse culinary scene.
A writeup by food and travel journalist-chef Lisa Futterman notes the country's trading history and focus on local ingredients as integral parts of Philippines food culture, also referencing the upcoming debut of the Michelin Guide here.
Manila itself was highlighted as a melting pot of Spanish, Chinese and Malay influences, with the Tutuban Night Market getting a mention as well as the Salcedo Community Market held in Makati on weekends.
Futterman mentioned local delicacies like Fish Ball and Turon, citing restaurant specialties such as Manam's Crispy Pancit Palabok and New Po Heng Lumpia House's Spring Rolls with meat, veggies, peanuts, and seaweed.
Makati-based restaurants Toyo Eatery's modern menu and "kamayan feast" as well as Kondwi's array of creative cocktails were commended, as were the 11 paella varieties of Spanish-inspired Alba.
Ho-land and Eng Bee Tin bakeries, which Futterman noted had branches in the world's oldest Chinatown Binondo, were further endorsed for their Hopia, Tikoy, and Moon Cakes.
A longer writeup by Futterman suggest visits to Mary Grace for merienda, Bebang's for Halo-Halo, and a variety of restaurants like Inato, Metiz, Gallery by Chele, Hapag, Tadeo, and Sarsa, plus Poblacion bars such as Polilya, Run Rabbit Run, Raion, and Spirits Library.
She recommends first-time tourist go to Intramuros and its surrounding cultural landmarks, the Ayala Museum, or go on day trips to Mount Daraitan, Mount Pinatubo, Taal Lake, Pagsanjan Falls, and Laguna hot springs.
Because of the country's wet and dry seasons plus a busy December due to the holidays, Futterman says the ideal time to visit Manila is between January and April.
Transport ideas aren't complete without a mention of Manila jeepneys and buses, although the write-up did include motorcycle taxis or habal-habal are available options.
As for accommodations, Futterman's suggestions range from the historic Manila Hotel and luxurious Shangri-La at the Fort to the inexpensive Lub d Manila Makati, also noting the reopening of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Ayala Triangle Gardens and arrival of another Dusit Hotel atop San Juan's Primex Tower.
Other destinations included in the "Best of the World 2026" list are Quebec, Banff, and Vancouver in Canada, the Italian Dolomites, the Chinese capital Beijing, Spain's Basque region, Brazil's Rio de Janeiro, and all of South Korea and Fiji.