The 10 Best Restaurants of Puerto Princesa

If you’re a foodie or just somebody who loves exploring different cuisines, Puerto Princesa offers a lot of fantastic dining options that promises to satisfy your cravings. As the capital city of Palawan, Puerto Princesa is known as one of the best destinations in the Philippines not only for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its food scene.

In recent years, the city has experienced a booming culture of nightlife that offers tourists and locals a chance to enjoy different dining options after dark. From local restaurants to seafood places, we have researched and gathered the top 10 best restaurants in Puerto Princesa, so you can have an idea of where to eat and what to expect.

Without further ado, here’s a rundown of the ten best restaurants in Puerto Princesa:

1. Badjao Seafront Restaurant

Badjao Seafront Restaurant is considered one of the best seafood restaurants in the city. It is situated on the seafront, giving visitors a chance to indulge in local seafood while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Puerto Princesa Bay. The restaurant offers a wide range of seafood dishes, from grilled squid to garlic shrimp, and even lobster. You can also try the local favorites, like the Kinilaw na Tanigue (raw fish in vinegar and spices) and the Sinigang na Ulo ng Lapu-Lapu (sour soup made from Grouper’s head).

2. Ka Inato Restaurant

Ka Inato Restaurant is a popular choice for delicious Filipino dishes that have managed to catch the attention of both locals and tourists. What makes this restaurant special is its chicken barbecue, which is prepared in traditional Filipino style with soy sauce, kalamansi, and garlic. It’s definitely a must-try when you visit Puerto Princesa.

3. Kalui Restaurant

If you’re looking for a unique and authentic dining experience, head down to Kalui. This restaurant serves traditional Filipino dishes in a relaxing ambiance. The interiors are designed to look like a traditional Filipino house, decorated with wooden sculptures and indigenous materials. The menu changes every day, depending on the availability of fresh produce, and you have to remove your shoes before entering the restaurant.

4. Kinabuchs Grill and Bar

Kinabuchs Grill and Bar is a famous local restaurant known for its exotic food offerings such as crocodile meat, tamilok (shipworms), and grilled eggplant salad. You can also enjoy drinks while enjoying live music at night.

5. Tadzmaki Sushi House

For those who enjoy Japanese cuisine, Tadzmaki Sushi House is the perfect place to visit. The restaurant serves sushi rolls, sashimi, and other similar dishes. They are made fresh daily, and you can even customize your orders.

6. Viet Ville Restaurant

Viet Ville Restaurant is a great place to try authentic Vietnamese cuisine in Puerto Princesa. The restaurant is owned by Vietnamese immigrants who have recreated their hometown recipes in the Philippines. Their signature dishes include pho, a beef noodle soup, and banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich.

7. La Terrasse

La Terrasse is a French restaurant located in the heart of Puerto Princesa City. It is run by French Chef Benoit and his wife, Cecile. The restaurant boasts a romantic atmosphere and serves French cuisine such as Escargots a la Bourguignonne (snails in garlic butter), Cassoulet (slowly cooked pork and beans), and Crepes Suzette (pancakes with citrus butter).

8. Ima’s Vegetarian Restaurant

Ima’s Vegetarian Restaurant offers a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes for health-conscious tourists and locals. The restaurant uses locally sourced and organic ingredients whenever possible. Their signature dishes include Adobong Kangkong (water spinach sautéed with vinegar and soy sauce), Veggie Longganisa (vegan sausage), and Halo-Halo (Filipino shaved ice dessert).

9. Captain Ribs

Captain Ribs is a local favorite, known for their mouth-watering barbecue ribs. It’s a perfect place to visit for a casual night out with friends and family.

10. Balinsasayaw Restaurant

Balinsasayaw Restaurant is a restaurant chain in Puerto Princesa, known for their unique bird’s nest soup. The soup is made from the saliva of the swiftlet bird, which is said to have healing properties. The restaurant also offers Filipino cuisine, such as Lechon Kawali (deep-fried pork belly) and Kare-Kare (ox tail stew with peanut sauce).

In conclusion, Puerto Princesa has a fantastic dining scene that offers a wide range of options. Whether you’re craving local seafood or international cuisines, the city has something to offer. We hope this rundown of the ten best restaurants in Puerto Princesa will help you plan your next food adventure in this beautiful city.

The 10 Best Restaurants of Puerto Princesa: Frequently Asked Questions

Puerto Princesa is a beautiful tropical paradise on the island of Palawan, Philippines. It’s well-known for its stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, and hospitable locals. But it’s also a food lover’s paradise, drawing visitors from around the world who want to savor the delicious flavors of the local cuisine. Here are some frequently asked questions about the 10 best restaurants of Puerto Princesa.

1. What is the best restaurant in Puerto Princesa?

It’s hard to pick just one, as there are so many amazing restaurants to choose from. However, if we had to pick one, we would recommend Ka Lui, consistently considered as one of the best restaurants in Puerto Princesa. Ka Lui serves some of the best seafood in the city, and it’s also famous for its eclectic interior decor made from recycled materials.

2. What type of cuisine can I expect in Puerto Princesa?

Puerto Princesa cuisine is a blend of flavors from different regions of the Philippines, with many dishes incorporating fresh seafood, vegetables, and meat. Some of the must-try dishes include Kinilaw (raw seafood marinated in vinegar and spices), sinigang (soups made with tamarind or other souring agents), and adobo (a hearty stew made with meat, vinegar, and soy sauce).

3. Are there any vegetarian options in Puerto Princesa?

Yes, there are several vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Puerto Princesa, such as Ima’s Vegetarian Restaurant and Namaskar Vegetarian. These restaurants serve a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including fresh salads, veggie burgers, and local delicacies made from soy protein.

4. Can you recommend a good restaurant for a romantic dinner?

If you’re looking for a romantic dinner, we recommend that you book a table at the beautiful and sophisticated La Terrasse. Located at the heart of Puerto Princesa, La Terrasse serves up French-inspired cuisine in a stylish and intimate setting, making it the perfect spot for a cozy and romantic evening.

5. Where can I find the best seafood in Puerto Princesa?

For the best seafood in Puerto Princesa, head to Ka Lui, Kinabuchs Grill & Bar, or Kalui Seafood Restaurant. These restaurants source their ingredients fresh from the local market, ensuring that you’ll enjoy the freshest and most flavorful seafood possible.

6. Is it necessary to book in advance at the top restaurants of Puerto Princesa?

Yes, we recommend that you book a table in advance, especially during the peak holiday season when many tourists flock to the city. Many of the best restaurants in Puerto Princesa, such as Ka Lui and La Terrasse, are usually fully booked, and they only accept guests by reservation.

7. What is the cost of dining at the top restaurants of Puerto Princesa?

The prices at the top restaurants of Puerto Princesa vary depending on the restaurant and the type of cuisine you order, but generally, they are comparable to those of other high-end restaurants. Expect to spend anywhere from PHP 500 to PHP 1500 per person for a full meal, but note that some of the upscale restaurants like Kinabuch’s Grill & Bar and Blue Marlin Restaurant command a bit of a premium on their prices.

8. Are there any restaurants serving Halal food in Puerto Princesa?

Yes, there are a few restaurants in Puerto Princesa that offer Halal food such as Balinsasayaw, Sari’s Baryo Restaurant or Rumah Sate. These restaurants cater to Muslim tourists, serving Halal-certified dishes such as grilled seafood, soups, and vegetable dishes, all of which are carefully prepared and cooked in accordance with Halal guidelines.

9. What is the best time to visit Puerto Princesa’s top restaurants?

The best time to visit Puerto Princesa’s top restaurants is during the dinner hour, usually around 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. During this time, the restaurants are less crowded, and the vibe is more relaxed and intimate, making it the perfect time for a romantic dinner or a business meeting.

10. How can I make a reservation at Puerto Princesa’s top restaurants?

You can make a reservation at Puerto Princesa’s top restaurants by calling them directly or contacting their social media pages online. Some restaurants, such as La Terrasse, allow you to make a reservation online through their website. Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid being turned away due to a packed house.

In conclusion, Puerto Princesa has an abundance of top-notch restaurants serving up delicious local cuisine, making it a foodie’s paradise. By following the tips provided in this article, you’re sure to have a memorable dining experience at the best restaurants in Puerto Princesa.