Food in the Philippines is a testament to its turbulent history. The nation has a colourful and sometimes violent history that has influenced every aspect of life including food. Originally the Philippines were the home of an Austronesian people, similar to the Malays and the Indonesians. Since the islands of the Philippians were located right on the middle of ancient trade routes, the arrival of sea farers from all around the world was to be expected.

During the early 11th century and 19th century Filipino ports were a hotbed of activity due to the arrival of Arabian merchants. Later on during the 16th and 17th centuries, the islands were under the control of the Spanish. It is thought that their arrival created the biggest impact on Filipino life. At the turn of the 20th century, the country was wrested from Spanish control and was claimed by the Americans who left their culinary imprint upon the nation as well. In recent times the migrants from China, Korea, Vietnam and even India have also affected the way the locals enjoy and prepare their food.

Filipino street food is mostly centred on the markets of Manila and other commercial districts in the cities. Most of the food is cooked onsite using local ingredients and is therefore extremely fresh. Spanish influence is evident in the outdoor paellas that are cooked using a variety of seafood such as crab, prawns and lobster. Thai inspired dishes that use papaya and fish sauce are also popular among the crowds that gather in the markets.

American influence is seen in the many hotdog carts and hamburger joints that have sprung up, though these carts are ubiquitous in many markets across the world. A notable feature in Filipino cuisine is that it is not as spicy as the cuisine of their neighbours, possibly due to the influence of their colonialists. Many of the food carts in the city can be easily accessed by many a centrally located 5 Star Hotel Manila. Guests staying at Manila luxury hotels such as The Peninsula Manila will find that some of these popular street foods have a more decadent counterpart on their restaurant menu.