Cheap treats: 7 Best Carinderia in Metro Manila

If there’s one thing Metro Manila knows how to do, it’s feeding hungry souls with big flavors on a small budget. From sizzling plates that make the streets come alive to humble carinderias dishing out comfort food with heart, this city proves you don’t need deep pockets to eat like a king.

In this guide, we’re spotlighting 7 must‑try carinderias where every bite tells a story—of tradition, community, and the joy of eating well without overspending. Whether you’re a first‑time visitor chasing authentic local eats or a seasoned traveler hunting for hidden gems, get ready to taste Manila in its most delicious (and affordable) form.

🍛✨ Let’s dig in—your budget‑friendly food adventure starts here!

🥘CARUZ EATERY

📍220 Hillcrest Drive, Pasig City, , Metro Manila

Owned by Nellie Caruz, who doubles as the cook, the eatery has thrived since 1985. It houses a coin-operated karaoke machine, letting patrons sing “My Way” while enjoying budget-friendly food. ABS-CBN’s Elchico and basketball’s Ejercito have been seen relishing Caruz Eatery. 

There specialties like Calderetang Spareribs, Ginataang Hipon and Inihaw na Liempo. Enjoy their Bestseller Dinadakan.🍽️

🥘ALING SOSING’S CARINDERIA

📍Dian Street, Makati City, Metro Manila

Established in March 1986 beside a vulcanizing shop, Aling Sosing’s is a quaint spot. In 2003, a Singapore journalist’s Asian Wall Street Journal piece, revealed by owner Maritess Lim, highlighted Aling Sosing (Asuncion Zamora). It’s been showcased on TV shows F and Travel Time, with visits from Evangeline Pascual and Isko Moreno. Enjoy soulful Pinoy dishes like Adobo, Higado, Liempo, and Bicol Express. For a heavenly experience, try Nilagang Baka post 10:30 am.🍲✨

🥘TAPSILOGAN NI MAMA LENG

📍West Grace Park, South Caloocan, Caloocan City, Metro Manila

Founded by Angelina “Mama Leng” Apelo, the tapsilogan has thrived for 30+ years. Regulars fondly term it Mama Leng’s. No cooks on-site; owner Jessie Ann Bangsil explained food’s pre-prepped and marinated, ensuring diverse meals available all day across branches without compromising flavor. A top pick is the Chicsilog – sizable, crispy, with sunny-side-up egg and rice.🍳🍗

🥘DANNYLICIOUS

📍Castillo Street, Bagumbuhay, Quezon City, Metro Manila

Operated by Crisanta Gaviola, Dannylicious serves since the ’70s. Around 30 kg pork barbecue sold daily.Featured on GMA-7 and ABS-CBN. Dannylicious delivers Pork Barbeque, Mechadong Baka, Pochero. Pricey pork barbecue doesn’t deter customers. With rice, a small bowl of soup is served.  Vinegar dip completes the traditional Filipino barbeque meal.🍖🍚🍲

🥘PAT-PAT’S KANSI HOUSE

📍Bayani Road, Western Bicutan, Taguig City, Metro Manila

Known as Kansi, owned by Aurelio Servando, this eatery started in Iloilo City in 1999 due to a family recipe. They set up in Manila later. With Kansi (Ilonggo bulalo) as their specialty, prices range from P30 for Barbeque to P135 for Kansi. Enjoy tender flesh lodged inside the bone with their specially formulated soup.🍜🍖

🥘MATY’S TAPSILOG

📍Quirino Ave. Dongalo Paranaque City, Metro Manila

Est. in 1970 by Epiphania Reyes-Salazar, Maty’s is a go-to for nightshift workers and night owls. A popular post-party or hangover spot. Featured on GMA-7, ABS-CBN shows. Maty’s Tapa is moist, unique but flavorful. Porksilog offers generous servings, a budget-friendly choice. Size isn’t everything here.🌙🍳🥓

🥘ATE FE’S KITCHEN

📍87 Maginhawa Street, Quezon City, Metro Manila

Owned by Fe F. Reyes, Ate Fe’s Kitchen offers more food than seats. Serving mostly diverse UP Diliman students. With minimal waiting time, anyone can have Chopsuey Rice, Tocilog, Beef Ampalaya served at fair prices. They never keep you waiting, it’s best to go in the early afternoon, when you’re sure to have a seat. 🥦🍚🍖

Need more food guides? We’ve got you covered! Check out our restaurants and other food recommendations on Watatrip’s website.