The Makati Central Business District (CBD) is a highly commercialized area. It has a lot of large office buildings, banks, and other corporate establishments. Due to its reputation as a business hub, the city government may have stricter regulations on street vending in the area to maintain cleanliness and orderliness. But if you’re craving some Filipino Street foods, you don’t need to go far. Just a few minutes walk from the Makati CBD is Dela Rosa, which is a residential and commercial area. The regulations on street vending in this area are less strict compared to the CBD. Allowing street vendors to operate more freely. Additionally, Dela Rosa is home to many small businesses and residential areas, which may have a higher demand for affordable and convenient street food options. Dela Rosa offers a more accessible location for street vendors to sell their products to a wider range of consumers.
Additionally, many workers in the CBD prefer to eat at established food establishments or food courts located inside the buildings or malls. Which offers a wider variety of food options and a more comfortable dining experience. These food establishments typically have to comply with certain hygiene and safety standards. So if you’re looking for safer Filipino street foods options, you can try checking these places out. However, it’s not gonna be giving a street food vibe.
What can we find here?
Street foods are an important part of Filipino culture and can be found in many different areas throughout the country. In Dela Rosa, Makati, there are many street vendors who sell a variety of tasty and affordable treats. One of the most popular street foods in Dela Rosa is isaw or grilled chicken intestine. This dish is made by marinating chicken intestines in vinegar, garlic, and soy sauce, then grilling them until they are crispy and flavorful. Isaw is often served with a spicy vinegar dipping sauce and is a favorite snack for many locals. If you’re looking for healthy treats, there are also vendors selling freshly cut fruits like mango, watermelon, and corn. You can add cheese and margarine flavoring to the corn as well, giving it a more interesting taste. People can enjoy this famous street food called sweet corn for only Php 25 in the Dela Rosa.
Other popular street foods in Dela Rosa include grilled pork or chicken skewers (commonly known as “pork and chicken bbq”), fish balls, kwek-kwek or deep-fried quail eggs, and banana cue or deep-fried bananas coated in caramelized sugar. All of these snacks can be found at various street vendors throughout the area, and are usually very affordable. At night, you can find vendors selling Balut. Balut is a unique delicacy that is considered a staple food in the Philippines. It is made by incubating fertilized duck eggs for about two weeks, then boiling them until the yolk and developing embryo inside are cooked. Balut is usually eaten with salt and vinegar and is said to be a good source of protein and other nutrients. Nobody has ever completely experienced Filipino street foods without trying this famous dish. It may sound and look absurd, but it is very healthy and delicious.
Tips when buying Street Foods
- Choose a reputable vendor: Look for vendors who have clean and well-maintained stalls. Observe if the vendor is following proper hygiene practices, such as wearing gloves when handling food, and keeping the ingredients covered to avoid contamination.
- Check the freshness of the ingredients: Inspect the ingredients used in the food to ensure that they are fresh and not spoiled. You can also ask the vendor how long the food has been sitting out or when it was prepared.
- Make sure the food is cooked thoroughly: Some street foods are served raw or undercooked, which can lead to foodborne illnesses. Make sure that the food is cooked thoroughly before eating. If you’re unsure, ask the vendor to cook it a little longer.
- If you want to try the isaw (intestine) and it tastes bitter, don’t continue eating. The bitterness just shows that the insides are not well cleaned, it should taste light and not bitter.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands before eating and bring your own utensils if possible. Avoid touching your face or mouth while eating, and dispose of your trash properly.
- Watch out for allergies: If you have food allergies, make sure to ask the vendor about the ingredients used in the food. Some street foods may contain common allergens such as peanuts, soy, or seafood.
- Make sure to eat on the pavements or sidewalks, the streets can be busy with cars passing along. It’ll be dangerous and accidents can happen if not alert. It’ll also be convenient for people rushing to work if you’re not loitering around.
- If you’re looking for more food options in Makati Busines District, try checking Makati City 5 Must-visit Roofdeck/Rooftop Resto-Bars
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