Marikina City, known as the “Shoe Capital of the Philippines,” may seem like an unlikely destination for food lovers at first glance. However, once you explore its streets, you’ll realize that it is home to a thriving food scene that beautifully mixes traditional and modern tastes.
1. Pan de Amerikana
Pan de Amerikana is more than just a place to grab a bite; it’s an experience. Famous for its giant chess pieces and hanging bridge within the restaurant, this is where food meets art and nostalgia. They serve hearty Filipino breakfasts and snacks, such as their must-try pandesal paired with coffee, which makes for a perfect morning treat. The ambiance here takes you back in time, with its vintage decor and homey vibe.
What to Order: Try their hearty ensaymada, perfect for breakfast, or their pancit sotanghon for a light lunch.
Location: 92 Ordoñez St., Marikina Heights, Marikina City
2. Café Lidia
Tucked in the quiet streets of Marikina, Café Lidia offers a cozy spot for those looking for comfort food. This restaurant has become a favorite among locals for its Western-inspired menu, serving up delicious pizza, pasta, and desserts. Café Lidia is perfect for casual dining with family and friends, or even a relaxed date night.
What to Order: Don’t miss their quattro formaggi pizza, paired with a creamy carbonara. For dessert, try their delectable tiramisu.
Location: 64 Calderon St., Marikina City
3. Miguel & Maria
Miguel & Maria is a cozy and rustic restaurant that combines American and Filipino cuisine with a twist. Their hearty portions and innovative dishes make it an ideal spot for gatherings or family dinners. With a well-curated menu and exceptional service, Miguel & Maria offers a dining experience that’s hard to forget.
What to Order: The baby back ribs are a crowd favorite, paired with their creamy mashed potatoes. If you’re feeling adventurous.
Location: 89 Lilac St., Concepcion Dos, Marikina City
4. Rustic Mornings by Isabelo
When you step into Rustic Mornings, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a secret garden café. With its lush greenery, colorful decor, and outdoor seating, it’s a breath of fresh air in the middle of the city. Their menu ranges from breakfast favorites to hearty lunches, all served in generous portions. It’s the perfect place to start your day or enjoy a lazy weekend brunch.
What to Order: Their signature buttermilk pancakes are a must-try, along with their savory longganisa and eggs for a traditional Filipino breakfast.
Location: 11 Isabelo Mendoza St., San Roque, Marikina City
5. Lugawan sa Tejeros
If you’re looking for a place that serves traditional Filipino comfort food, Lugawan sa Tejeros is where you want to be. This unassuming eatery is famous for its affordable and flavorful lugaw (rice porridge), which is perfect for a quick snack or light meal. It’s a popular stop for locals, especially during the rainy season, when a bowl of warm lugaw is exactly what you need.
What to Order: Stick to the classics with their special lugaw, paired with tokwa’t baboy (fried tofu and pork).
Location: 21 Tejeros St., Concepcion Uno, Marikina City
6. LA Grille Buffet & Restaurant
For those with a big appetite, LA Grille Buffet & Restaurant offers a wide selection of Filipino and Asian dishes. Their buffet spread is known for being affordable yet diverse, featuring dishes that are both traditional and innovative. It’s the go-to spot for birthday celebrations, family reunions, and big gatherings.
What to Order: If you love seafood, their buttered shrimp and crispy tilapia are a must-try.
Location: Sumulong Highway, Marikina City
7. Balestier
Balestier brings a taste of Singapore to Marikina with its Singaporean-inspired dishes. Known for its chili crabs and laksa, the restaurant provides an exciting culinary adventure for food lovers seeking something new and unique. The modern interiors and sleek design also make it a great place for intimate dinners or business meetings.
What to Order: The chili crabs are a must-have, and their laksa provides the perfect balance of spice and coconut cream.
Location: Lilac St., Marikina City
8. Chimney Café 360
Located on the rooftop of the Marikina Hotel, Chimney Café 360 offers a panoramic view of the city, which adds a touch of elegance to your dining experience. The restaurant serves a fusion of Filipino and international cuisine, and is ideal for romantic dinners or small gatherings with friends.
What to Order: Their pork belly confit with garlic mash is a rich and flavorful dish that’s highly recommended. For something sweet, their mango cheesecake is a delightful way to end your meal.
Location: Marikina Hotel, Shoe Ave., Marikina City
9. The Barn by Tipsy Pig
A trendy restaurant-bar with a chic rustic design, The Barn by Tipsy Pig is a favorite hangout spot for Marikina’s young professionals. It offers a wide range of cocktails, craft beers, and an extensive food menu that features everything from pizzas and burgers to Filipino comfort food with a twist. This place is perfect for nights out with friends.
What to Order: Their signature sisig tacos are a must-try. Pair it with their signature Tipsy Pig Brew for a complete experience.
Location: 17 Mayor Gil Fernando Ave., Marikina City
10. Marison’s
Marison’s brings modern Filipino cuisine to the forefront with creative twists on traditional dishes. Their menu focuses on comfort food that Filipinos know and love but are prepared in new, innovative ways. If you’re looking to taste familiar dishes with a fresh take, Marison’s is the place to go.
What to Order: The kare-kareng bagnet is one of their standout dishes, where crispy pork belly meets rich peanut sauce.
Location: Bluewave Mall, Sumulong Highway, Marikina City
Discovering Marikina’s Culinary Gems
Planning your food trip in Marikina? For more restaurant recommendations, check out this list of the 10 Best Restaurants in Marikina on Lakbay Pinas. And for more travel and food guides around the Philippines, visit Lakbay Pinas.