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Sinigang for the Soul
Philippines
Talk about quintessential Filipino food and Sinigang always comes to mind. Case in point: a local actress once rebutted bashers criticizing her for “not being Filipina enough” for a movie role by saying she loves Sinigang, which is as Filipino as one can get! Known for its distinct sour-based soup mixed with vegetables and either shrimp, fish, or meat, this dish is considered by many as representative of Filipino taste, given its strong presence in every household and local restaurant around! Below, we’ve rounded up the best places to get a steamy, soulful bowl of Sinigang.
Updated 3 years ago
Fans of the delightful, refreshing slices of watermelon will rejoice over Simple Lang’s take on the classic Filipino ulam (meaning “viand”). Not only do they put the summer fruit to achieve the dish’s sweet and sour flavors, but they also use sinfully good Bagnet (deep fried pork belly) for a crunchy bite! It’s simple yet explosive in flavor, making this an ultimate destination for your next lunch.
- +63 2 7621 6161
Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines
When it comes to Filipino favorites, nothing beats Bulalo (beef soup) and the sour goodness of Sinigang—which prompted this famed Kapitolyo restaurant to fuse both in one dish. Bullchef champions the unique blend of taro purée and flavorful Bulalo stock in its soup, immersing generous servings of vegetables and bone marrow for an indulgent finish.
- +63 2 7617 2133
Santa Catalina St, Pasig, 1603 Metro Manila, Philippines
Diners in search of a sophisticated Sinigang fix can head over to Sentro 1711 where they use corned beef as the meat for their signature dish—and we’re not talking about the canned kind you often see in grocery stores. The beef they use is cured and tenderized for four long days to ensure exceptional quality in each serving. Cooked with crispy vegetables and savory soup, a filling meal surely awaits you!
- +63 917 814 7794
36th Street, corner 9th Ave, Taguig, 1630 Metro Manila, Philippines
Corazon whips up an extra sour bowl of Sinigang na Hipon (shrimp) as a standout offering on its menu, much to the delight of those looking for a tongue-tying treat! The dish comes with the standard tamarind-based broth, but amplified with green mangoes’ tartness, for a satisfying burst of flavors in one gulp.
4/F, Shangri La Plaza, Bulebar Shaw, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, Kalakhang Maynila, Philippines
If you love steak, then you’ve probably heard all about Mamou. Carnivores flock over to try their signature cuts, but their show-stopping Sinigang shouldn’t be missed either. Made with top-notch Kurobuta (Japanese black pig) as its main ingredient, their recipe takes the Wagyu or Kobe Beef equivalent of pork to complement the outstanding sour broth of their Sinigang.
- +63 917 806 2668
Ground Floor, Power Plant Mall, Lopez Drive, Rockwell Center, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines
For a classic heirloom recipe of Sinigang, try this Kapampangan restaurant’s popular take on the culinary staple. The deep lavender hues on Abe’s Sinigang can only be attributed to another unique Filipino ingredient: ube. Although more popularly known as a sweet dessert, the purple yam blends surprisingly well as a viand in this sour soup.
- +63 2 8824 2149
Alabang–Zapote Road, Alabang, Muntinlupa, 1770 Metro Manila, Philippines
Dress up and prepare to reminisce about beautiful summer days up North where a taste of Empacho’s Sinigang na Lechon with Strawberry will transport you! The Quezon City-based restaurant boasts a modern take on an old favorite. Made with crispy pork belly and fresh strawberries mixed in a heavenly sour broth, it’s a recipe that’s become a favorite among tourists and locals alike.
- +63 917 467 1816
2nd floor unit 201, 170 Tomas Morato Ave, Diliman, Quezon City, 1103 Metro Manila, Philippines
Nothing screams Filipino pride more than Sinigang made with the Philippines’ national fish, bangus (milkfish). Via Mare’s version is the perfect gateway dish for seafood lovers looking for that comforting sour taste. Plus, the flavor of the miso (soybean paste) gives the dish a glorious umami taste that hits all the right notes!
- +63 2 8898 1306
Ground Floor Rockwell Mall, Rockwell Center, Makati, 1200, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines
As the modern culinary scene continues to blossom, so do the variations for souring agents in Sinigang. Mesa deviates from the usual tamarind and puts together an addictive mix of guava and pineapple for a creamy, tropical twist. Get it in either of the three delicious variants: Pork, Shrimp, and Bangus Belly to satisfy your Sinigang craving.
- +63 917 852 6372
Ground Floor, Greenbelt 5, Legazpi Street, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines
- https://www.facebook.com/MesaPH/
Fried rice gets a major upgrade at the Kanin Club, a humble bistro that infuses a funky sour kick to the Filipino meal staple. Their bestselling Sinangag na Sinigang is served with tempura-style vegetables and thin slices of pork belly—proof of how versatile the Filipino favorite can be! Try it for yourself and wonder why you didn’t think of inventing it first.
- +63 2 7621 6109
Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati Ave, Makati, 1209 Metro Manila, Philippines
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