Siargao isn’t just the surfing capital of the Philippines anymore—it has officially evolved into a premier world-class culinary hotspot. From dynamic local carinderias serving charcoal-grilled specialties to high-end aesthetic cafés and international beachfront bistros, the island is a paradise for foodies.
Inspired by The Chui Show’s ultimate food tours, here is your definitive checklist of the 30 must-try foods, dishes, and culinary spots scattered across the beautiful island of Siargao. Taruh!
1. Local Legends, Carinderias, & Night Eats
When the sun goes down or you need a heavy post-surf meal, these are the heavy hitters that offer authentic local flavors, incredible value, and rich island comfort.
- 1. Turo-Turo Feasts at Kurvada: The ultimate point-and-choose (carinderia) stop. Must-tries include their vegan-friendly veggie patties, rich curries, and perfectly seasoned stir-fries made fresh daily.
- 2. Crispy Porchetta at Kanin Baboy: A staple from Chui’s late-night food crawl. The roasted pork belly stays beautifully crunchy and pairs perfectly with their signature rice.
- 3. Local Grilled Yellowfin Tuna at Tuna Road Carenderia: Freshly caught tuna sliced thick, grilled over screaming hot charcoal, and served with a zesty soy-calamansi dipping sauce.
- 4. Spicy Lechon at Haole: A local favorite featuring crackling, juicy pork loaded with an addictive spicy kick.
- 5. Filipino BBQ Sticks at Annattos Barbecue: Smoky pork skewers, chicken intestines (isaw), and sweet-salty glaze that keeps locals and expats lined up down Tourism Road.
- 6. Late-Night Paella at Las Barricas: Savory, rich Spanish rice packed with local seafood, served straight out of giant paella pans into the evening hours.
- 7. Chicken Burgers at Catagnan Fried Chicken (CFC): An old-school Siargao institution. Grab their Hawaiian or Korean chicken burger alongside a cold afternoon beer.
- 8. Middle Eastern Platters at Meze Grill: Hearty, spiced grilled meats, hummus, and freshly baked flatbreads perfect for refuel dining.
- 9. Sayongsong: A hyper-local snack native to Surigao del Norte. It’s a purple-hued steamed rice cake wrapped in a banana leaf cone, offering a sweet, gooey bite of coconut milk and ground glutinous rice.
- 10. Fresh Buko by the Roadside: Grab a fresh green young coconut from a local vendor for the ultimate natural electrolyte boost.
2. Fresh Catch, Ceviche, & Casual Dining
Siargao’s pristine waters yield some of the freshest seafood in the country. These spots elevate local seafood to an art form.
- 11. Pacifico Ceviche at CEV (Ceviche & Kinilaw Shack): Widely considered a masterpiece. It features local white fish in a creamy coconut milk leche de tigre, calamansi, sweet potato, and house-made chili garlic oil.
- 12. Traditional Tuna Kinilaw: Fresh yellowfin tuna “cooked” purely in native coconut vinegar, ginger, onions, and local bird’s eye chilies.
- 13. Singapore Chili Shrimp at Last Chance: A spicy, funky, rich coconut-seafood dish that mimics a vibrant Asian street food profile.
- 14. Wood-Fired Neapolitan Pizza at Kermit: Famous for a reason. Their wood-fired oven produces a perfectly blistered, chewy crust. Top it off with fresh local ingredients.
- 15. Reale Calzone at Bulan Pizzeria: A massive, gooey folded pizza loaded with premium cheeses and meats, baked to absolute perfection.
- 16. Wagyu Burger at WILD: A decadent, juicy premium Wagyu beef patty inside a toasted brioche bun, complete with dimmed lights and weekend DJ sets.
- 17. Beef Kulma at Bayani (Harana Surf Resort): A rich, Southern Mindanao style beef curry cooked down with peanut butter and served on a sizzling hot plate.
- 18. Tiyula Itum: Another must-try at Bayani—a traditional Tausug beef soup featuring a dark, rich broth made from charred coconut meat and local spices.
- 19. Baja Fish Tacos at Miguel’s Taqueria: Crispy battered local catch tucked into soft tortillas with fresh cabbage slaw and custom hot sauces.
- 20. Silkroad Noodles: A comforting bowl of Asian-inspired noodles highlighted on Chui’s food trail to break up the rich island marinades.
3. Aesthetic Brunch Cafés & Sweet Treats
Siargao boasts an elite coffee and breakfast culture. These spots look as good on your feed as they taste on your plate.
- 21. Bomba Smoothie Bowls at Shaka Café: A beachfront staple looking right at Cloud 9. Packed with fresh mango, bananas, house granola, and vibrant superfoods.
- 22. Eggs Cocotte at Spotted Pig Café: Perfect baked eggs swimming in a rich, savory cream reduction, served alongside specialty single-origin coffee.
- 23. Dairy-Free “Nice Cream” at Buonana: Creamy frozen bowls made entirely from frozen bananas and acai, topped with seasonal fruits.
- 24. Frozen Coconut Coffee at Coco Frio: A refreshing tropical pick-me-up combining cold brew with freshly blended coconut cream and ice cream.
- 25. Bacon & Garlic Confit Tomato Toast at Mondayyys: Open at 5:00 AM, making it the premier spot for dawn-patrol surfers looking for a gourmet breakfast.
- 26. Fresh Croissants at Kawayan Gourmand: Flaky, buttery, authentic French pastries baked fresh daily on the island.
- 27. Vegan Grilled Cheese at Roots: Comfort food elevated with rich, artisanal vegan cheese and sautéed shiitake mushrooms.
- 28. Homemade Gelato at Halika Siargao: Thick, velvety gelato featuring local flavors like mango, coconut, and dark tablea chocolate.
- 29. Crab Rangoon Empanadas: A nostalgic, crispy fusion pastry filled with savory cream cheese and crab meat found in the island’s trendy breakfast spots.
- 30. Ube Turon at Bayani: Crispy banana spring rolls elevated with local purple yam (ube), peanut butter, and jelly, served warm with ice cream.
Quick Reference: Top 5 Can’t-Miss Spots
| Restaurant | Signature Dish | Vibe | Price Range |
| CEV Siargao | Pacifico Ceviche | Trendy / Foodie Haven | Mid-High |
| Kurvada | Daily Turo-Turo Selection | Ultra-Casual / Budget Friendly | Cheap |
| Kermit | Wood-Fired Pizza | Island Institution / Lively | Mid |
| Kanin Baboy | Crispy Porchetta | Late-Night Comfort | Budget |
| Shaka Café | Superfood Smoothie Bowls | Beachfront / Aesthetic | Mid |
Pro Tip from The Chui Show: Always ask the servers for the “Catch of the Day” (isda ng araw). The seafood supply changes daily depending on what the local fishermen bring ashore in General Luna or Dapa Markets!
