Iloilo City has long been a food lover’s playground, home to iconic native dishes, legendary seafood spots, and heirloom recipes passed through generations. Whether you’re exploring the city for the first time or returning for another culinary escape, Iloilo’s dining scene never disappoints. Here are the must-visit restaurants that capture the true flavors of the city.
1. Tatoy’s Manokan and Seafood Restaurant
Tatoy’s is a household name in Iloilo, famous for its daraag (native char-grilled chicken) and ultra-fresh seafood served in a breezy, rustic setup. Founded in the 1970s by fisherman Honorato “Tatoy” Espinosa, it remains a top choice for families and tourists craving the nostalgic taste of Ilonggo home-cooked food. Must-tries include kinilaw, oysters, grilled boneless bangus, stuffed squid, and buttered shrimp, plus their turo-turo counter for quick local dishes.
How To Get There?
Location: Villa Arevalo, Iloilo City, Philippines
- By Car: Drive to the Villa Arevalo district and head toward Sto. Niño Sur, all branches offer parking.
- By Commute: Take a Villa Arevalo jeepney from the city proper. For Atria, hop on any Mandurriao-bound jeepney; for Cabatuan, ride a van or jeep going toward the Iloilo Airport Access Road.
2. Breakthrough Restaurant
Breakthrough Restaurant is the ultimate seafood haven, famous for its beachside ambience and open-air dining. Locals and tourists swear by its grilled squid, prawns, baked scallops, and hearty dishes like pork ribs and native chicken barbecue. With its nautical-inspired décor and family-friendly vibe, it’s perfect for lunch after a day of exploring Villa Arevalo or for a relaxed sunset meal by the water.
How To Get There?
Location: Sto. Nino, Arevalo, Iloilo City, Philippines
- By Car: Head to Sto. Niño Norte in Villa Arevalo; wide parking areas are available near the shoreline.
- By Commute: Ride a Villa Arevalo jeepney and ask to be dropped off at Breakthrough. For Mandurriao’s Ponsyon by Breakthrough, take any SM City or Mandurriao jeepney; for Dapli, take a jeepney passing Valeria Street.
3. Netong’s La Paz Batchoy
Netong’s is considered one of the original creators of La Paz Batchoy, the warm, savory noodle soup Iloilo is known for. Established in 1948 inside the La Paz Public Market, it continues to serve its signature broth made with beef, pork, bone marrow, and crunchy chicharrón, comforting, rich, and unmistakably Ilonggo. A visit to Iloilo isn’t complete without slurping a bowl right where it all began.
How To Get There?
Location: La Paz Public Market, Iloilo City, Philippines
- By Car: Navigate toward La Paz District and enter the La Paz Public Market area where parking spaces are available.
- By Commute: Ride any La Paz jeepney from the city proper and get off at the market entrance; Netong’s is located inside.
From heirloom broth to native chicken grilled the traditional way, Iloilo’s food scene highlights comfort, heritage, and freshness on every plate. Whether you’re feasting by the shoreline or sipping warm batchoy in a busy market, these spots capture the city’s soul through flavor. For travelers looking to experience Iloilo authentically, start with these classics, you’ll leave full, happy, and planning your next food trip back.
