In the April 2019 issue of Northern Living, we invited people to “eat like a local” by exploring culinary treasures from Bulacan, Pampanga, and Rizal. Now, more people can explore a wider variety of cuisines all over Manila with the launch of Department of Tourism (DOT)’s latest project: Metro Yummy Picks. 

Part of its “Kain Na!” program that promotes culinary tourism through a series of food and travel festivals, Metro Yummy Picks will serve as a guide to the “iconic dishes and restaurants of Metro Manila,” including standout dishes from cities in Metro Manila.

According to Woodrow C. Maquiling, regional director for DOT-NCR, the content was the product of their visits to each of the cities featured in the guide. Aside from mainstream food chains, Metro Yummy Picks also features dishes from stalls and homes that have been passed down from generation to generation.

“We dare you to go beyond each city’s top sites and attractions and to discover Metro Manila by trying the highlighted food from each city,” Maquiling says. “You will confirm that it’s not only more fun but it’s also more fun to eat in the Philippines.”

Aside from highlighting standout dishes, Metro Yummy Picks also features a list of restaurants that specialize in Filipino cuisine such as Locavore Kitchen & Drinks, Romulo Café, and Sarsa Kitchen+Bar as well as restaurants serving their own interpretations of Pinoy food such as Toyo Eatery, Metiz, and Hapag.