There are two facts that you should know about us- we both love food and the beach. One of the reasons why traveling around Asia together was fun was because we were both just perpetually hungry. Having said that, being the geekier one, I’m always reading up on food places, constantly on the look out for good food. Since summer is fast approaching, the beach is all I can think about. Some of you might not know this about me but I was once a beach bum and professional sun tanner that lived by the ocean. I am only partly kidding when I say that as I had a full time job, but I was however, living on Boracay Island for three years. Not only did I have the time of my life, but it also gave me inside scoop to some of the best places to eat that some tourists might not even know about. Here are my top list food places (in no particular order)of where to eat in Boracay.
Away from the hustle and bustle of white beach is this charming bed and breakfast dishing out comfort food the way only your mama knows how. The locals flock here at all times of the day just to sit and lounge by their super comfy deck as they eat and catch up with each other. The fact that they serve breakfast food all day round puts them high up there on my books.
What to order: Everything on their menu is delicious! I’m not even kidding. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on ordering their Tinapa flakes with eggs and rice and Vietnamese drip coffee. Oh, and don’t forget to say hi to their resident dog/superstar, Whiskey.
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If you ever find yourself braving the crowds and venturing to D’Talipapa for a little seafood feast, do yourself a favor and hit up Kay Sarap. Although there are so many restaurants to choose from, this place is nice and clean, plus it serves awesome dishes. Go to the market, go seafood shopping to your hearts content then bring it here. Best part about this place, even if it isn’t on the menu, tell them how you want it cooked and they will happily oblige. Another must for your where to eat in Boracay list!
What to order: Try their baked scallops and shrimp tempura! Don’t forget to order some sauteed water spinach (kangkong) on the side!
This place is the reason why I get hungry at obscene hours of the night due to the many food porn photos posted all over my friend’s facebook feeds. This cozy joint in Bulabog Beach serves delicious comfort food that makes people go back, over and over again. Oh, did I mention they serve local craft beer?
What to order: Try their Fruits de Mer Seafood platter and nachos. Topped with a few pints of beer, of course.
Dos Mestizos, Station 3
Dos Mestizos is an institution on the island for good, no frills Spanish food. When you feel the need to eat your hear away as you enjoy some tapas and sangria, this is the place to go. Their beef salpicao, gambas, and calamari are just a few of my favorites on the island. Attached to their restaurant is a deli and bakeshop where they make their own bread and sell some killer sandwiches which are perfect to take along with you on beach picnics.
What to order: Don’t miss out on their Paella de Mariscos, beef salpicao, and their Grilled Cubano sandwich from the Gusto Y Gusto Deli.
Lemoni Café, D’Mall, Station 2
Again, another island staple that just doesn’t get old. Lemoni Café is “an oldie, but a goodie” in the food industry in Boracay. Regardless, it is constantly upping the game by their week specials as brilliant flavors and food come to life, depending on what’s fresh and available in the market. Don’t even get me started on their desserts!!
What to order: Since I am a breakfast all day kind of girl, no doubt, their Poached eggs with smoked tanigue, water spinach and hollandaise sauce. Also, their mango madness cake is like a slice of heaven. No exaggeration.
Smoke Restaurant
An island institution for affordable meals, Smoke is my go to place for when on a budget. Offering delicious rice meals, omelettes, and soups, they specialize in home cooked deliciousness. I’ve spent way to many guilty nights eating here after one to many beers. Their food is reasonably priced, flavorful, and always hits the spot when you’re hungover.
What to order: Beef Salpicao, Bulalo, Chili Chicken…YUM!
A few other must mentions are Thai Basil in D’Mall and Sushi- Shiro in Bulabog Beach. I would talk about both places more but my stomach is grumbling as we speak. See what I mean about being perpetually hungry. So, when paying a visit to beautiful Boracay, do yourself a favor and drop by these places for some good grub! Although your bikini body might not thank you for it, your happy tummy definitely will!
If you want more tips on where to eat in Boracay, check out this restaurant guide!
Located in Station 1, this hostel has a great vibe to it. Within minutes, you can find yourself in Boracay’s White beach basking in the sun! They offer reasonable rates for private rooms as well as 8 bed dormitories for people that are traveling by themselves or as a group. (Private Rooms start at $19/Dorm $12)
To see prices, read reviews or to find similar deals, check:
Located in Bulabog, Lazy Dog offers affordable rooms which are perfect for those that love a more personal feel to where they are staying. They have private rooms and have recently opened newly build dormitories which are perfect for groups of friends. (Private Rooms start at $28/Dorms $11)
To see prices, read reviews or to find similar deals, check:
Two Seasons is a great pick when deciding where to stay in Boracay. It’s location in White Beach is one of the best as the gorgeous station 1 ocean is right at your doorstep. The rooms are decently decorated and the food in their restaurant is quite good! (Prices start at $120 for two)
To see prices, read reviews or to find similar deals, check:
Treat yourself to a luxurious stay at one of the top resorts on the island. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway, Mandala Spa is just for you. Pamper yourself and indulge in their award winning spa treatments. (Villas start at $200+)
To see prices, read reviews or to find similar deals, check:
Anna is a co-founder of Adventure in You and has been traveling the world for the last 9 years, living in 5 different continents. She is passionate about giving destination advice, entrepreneurship, outdoor travel and discovering good food while on the road. Her expertise on travel, gear, and building businesses have been featured on Foundr, Business Insider, Forbes, Yahoo! Travel and more.
10 thoughts on “Where to Eat in Boracay: Restaurants Not to Miss!”
Hi! We’re thinking of heading to the Philippines in April – how difficult is it for a vegetarian to eat there? In similar countries I’ve been to, I generally end up eating “western” food. Thanks!
Hey @rhiannongetley:disqus generally speaking, the Philippines isn’t vegetarian friendly as it’s a big meat eating culture. If you eat local, make sure you learn the language and triple check that it doesn’t have meat, but in general everyone understands English. In larger restaurants though and places like Boracay it would be easier to find vegetarian meals. Do you already know which places you are going to?
Hey Tom and Anna, looks super tasty! I wish I could afford to eat at those restaurants. I’m more of a budget eater myself. But surely one day I will be rich and famous and splurge 🙂
Yes I know Smoke, I eat there regularly, love their Mushroom Beef and Kao Pad! Where is Surf Kitch? Don’t know that one. My favorite budget resto in Boracay is Viveri’s. It’s like eating 5 star but paying 2 star 🙂
Hi! We’re thinking of heading to the Philippines in April – how difficult is it for a vegetarian to eat there? In similar countries I’ve been to, I generally end up eating “western” food. Thanks!
Hey @rhiannongetley:disqus generally speaking, the Philippines isn’t vegetarian friendly as it’s a big meat eating culture. If you eat local, make sure you learn the language and triple check that it doesn’t have meat, but in general everyone understands English. In larger restaurants though and places like Boracay it would be easier to find vegetarian meals. Do you already know which places you are going to?
Not too sure yet. Doing some research now! I can see your page being our Philippines bible while we’re planning! So, thanks 🙂
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Hey Tom and Anna, looks super tasty! I wish I could afford to eat at those restaurants. I’m more of a budget eater myself. But surely one day I will be rich and famous and splurge 🙂
Nice pictures, make me hungry!
We are budget eaters ourselves too 🙂 Try smoke kitchen, surf kitch for good affordable meals while you’re there. @paul_fournier999:disqus
Yes I know Smoke, I eat there regularly, love their Mushroom Beef and Kao Pad! Where is Surf Kitch? Don’t know that one. My favorite budget resto in Boracay is Viveri’s. It’s like eating 5 star but paying 2 star 🙂
Hi,
That dessert tray looks awesome! I’d scarf that down in no time lol. Thanks for the colorful, and tasty, share.
Ryan
Thanks for reading @ryanbiddulph:disqus ! I had trouble writing this without drooling over my computer screen! 🙂