Top 4 Places to Eat in Puerto Princesa

Captivating beach and cliffs in El Nido, Philippines under a vivid blue sky.
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Puerto Princesa offers a vibrant dining scene, characterized by fresh seafood and traditional Filipino cuisine, with options ranging from casual eateries to picturesque, upscale experiences.

1. Ka Lui Restaurant

Cuisine: Fresh Seafood, Filipino, Vegetarian

Stepping into Ka Lui, one is enveloped by a warm, artistic ambiance, reminiscent of a traditional Filipino home. Guests are invited to remove their shoes, adding to the relaxed, intimate atmosphere. The focus here is on the day's fresh catch, with popular choices like blue marlin, tuna, and prawns prepared in various Filipino styles. Must-try items include the fresh fruit salad served in a coconut shell and the flavorful sea grapes for a starter. Reservations are highly recommended due to its popularity.

Price: PHP 400 - 800 per person / USD 7 - 14 (Set meals, individual dishes)

Getting There: Located on Rizal Avenue, it is typically a short tricycle ride (around PHP 10 per person) from the city center, or about a 10-minute drive from the airport.

2. Kinabuchs Grill & Bar

Cuisine: Filipino, International, Exotic

Kinabuchs offers a lively, open-air setting, perfect for a social evening, with large screens often showing sports events. It presents a wide menu of Filipino favorites and international dishes. For the adventurous palate, the crocodile sisig and tamilok (woodworm) are unique local delicacies to experience. Their crispy pata and refreshing mango shakes are also highly recommended. The service is professional and attentive, making for an enjoyable dining experience.

Price: PHP 300 - 900 per person / USD 5 - 16 (Main dishes, large servings)

Getting There: Situated on Rizal Avenue, it is easily accessible within Puerto Princesa, about an 8-minute drive from the airport. Tricycles are readily available.

3. Badjao Seafront Restaurant

Cuisine: Filipino, Seafood

Perched on stilts over tranquil waters and surrounded by mangrove forests, Badjao Seafront offers breathtaking views, especially during sunset, creating a romantic and serene dining atmosphere. The restaurant specializes in generously portioned Filipino-style seafood. Noteworthy dishes include their fresh prawns, savory pork sinigang, and kinilaw (fish ceviche). Given its popularity and picturesque setting, securing a reservation, particularly for dinner, is strongly advised.

Price: PHP 400 - 1000+ per person / USD 7 - 18+ (Higher end for seafood platters)

Getting There: This restaurant is a bit outside the main city, roughly a 15-minute drive south of Puerto Princesa International Airport. A tricycle ride typically costs between PHP 200-300 for a round trip, and it is advisable to arrange for your driver to wait or return for you.

4. NomNom Comfort Food

Cuisine: American Comfort Food (Burgers, Wings)

NomNom Comfort Food provides a welcoming and casual dining spot, known for its delectable burgers and wings. The Hawaiian hamburger, balancing sweet and savory notes, and the cheesy buffalo wings are popular choices. The patties are juicy and satisfyingly sized. It maintains a quiet ambiance, making it suitable for a relaxed meal. The friendly and attentive staff contribute to a pleasant experience.

Price: PHP 200 - 400 per person / USD 3.5 - 7 (Burgers, wings)

Getting There: Located within Puerto Princesa City, it is easily accessible by tricycle from various points in the city.