What To Do In Binondo? Travel and Food Recommendations

Binondo is a historic district located in the heart of Manila, Philippines, and is considered to be the oldest Chinatown in the world. It is a bustling neighborhood filled with an eclectic mix of Chinese and Filipino cultures, and its streets are lined with a myriad of shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks.

Binondo is not only a popular destination for tourists but also a vibrant center of commerce and trade, with many businesses thriving in the area. Its rich history and vibrant atmosphere make Binondo a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Manila.

Cover photo shows a groufie of my mom and I with Gerald and Gerik Chua of Eng Bee Tin at the facade of their main branch located 628 Ongpin St., Binondo, Manila

In this article, we will provide you with a list of the top things to do in Binondo, ensuring you have an unforgettable experience in this vibrant district if you will be visiting as a tourist or even just a local who's trying to learn more about and experience more of this part of Manila.

1. Visit Binondo Church

Are you planning a trip to Manila and looking for a cultural and historical attraction to visit? Look no further than the Binondo Church, also known as the Minor Basilica of St. Lorenzo Ruiz. Located in the heart of Binondo, this stunning church is a symbol of the neighborhood's rich history and is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Whether you're interested in religious sites, architecture, or history, the Binondo Church has something for everyone. So don't miss out on the opportunity to explore this beautiful attraction and immerse yourself in the unique culture of Binondo.

Binondo Church is located at 1006 Plaza Lorenzo Ruiz, Binondo, 1006 Metro Manila.

2. Buy Chinoy Delicacies in Eng Bee Tin Main Branch

Eng Bee Tin is a well-known establishment in Binondo, Manila, and is considered to be one of the best places to find delicious Chinese delicacies and treats. The store specializes in hopia, a traditional Chinese pastry filled with sweet or savory filling, as well as other popular Chinese snacks like tikoy, mooncakes, and machang.

Eng Bee Tin is famous for its unique hopia flavors such as ube, mongo, pandan, and pineapple, as well as its premium-quality tikoy. The store is also known for its modern and colorful packaging, making it a popular souvenir and gift shop for tourists. With its delectable treats and vibrant atmosphere, Eng Bee Tin is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the food scene in Binondo.

Eng Bee Tin is particularly special during Chinese New Year, as the store offers a wide variety of festive treats and delicacies to celebrate the occasion. One of the most popular items during this time is tikoy, a sweet and sticky rice cake that is considered to be a traditional Chinese New Year food. Eng Bee Tin offers a range of tikoy flavors during this time, including classic flavors like brown sugar and ube, as well as unique flavors like green tea and strawberry.

In addition to tikoy, Eng Bee Tin also offers other Chinese New Year staples like mooncakes, almond jelly, and other traditional snacks. The store is also decorated with festive decorations, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike to soak in the festive atmosphere of the season.

Eng Bee Tin is widely known for its high-quality and delicious tikoy. The store has been a popular destination for tikoy and other Chinese delicacies for many years, and has gained a reputation for its premium ingredients and traditional preparation methods. Many people have praised Eng Bee Tin's tikoy for its soft and chewy texture, as well as its rich and sweet flavor. Additionally, the store offers a wide variety of tikoy flavors, ensuring that there is something for everyone's taste preferences.

3. Dine at Chun Kee Restaurant

Chuan Kee is located at 650 Ongpin St, Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila just a few steps away from Eng Bee Tin.

Chuan Kee Restaurant is not only a popular Chinese restaurant in Binondo, but it is also the oldest fast food restaurant in the area. Since it first opened its doors in 1940, Chuan Kee has been serving delicious Chinese cuisine to locals and tourists alike. The restaurant has a rich history, having survived World War II and several other challenges throughout its more than 80 years of operation.

Despite its age, Chuan Kee continues to be a favorite among foodies, offering a range of classic Chinese dishes that have stood the test of time. From its famous siopao to its tasty pancit, Chuan Kee's menu is a testament to its long-standing commitment to quality and authenticity. With its rich history and delicious food, Chuan Kee Restaurant is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the unique culinary offerings of Binondo.

My mom and I have dined at Chuan Kee in Binondo and we personally recommend their Beef and Wanton Mami, spring rolls (lumpia), Adobo Tofu, and Black Gulaman.

A filling meal for one in Chuan Kee costs around PHP 300 to PHP 500, which I think is already fairly affordable given the good quality of food there.

4. Take Home Lumpiang Sariwa from New Po Heng Lumpia House

New Po Heng Lumpia House is another popular destination in Binondo, known for its delicious and freshly-made lumpia. This small restaurant, which is almost hidden in Carjaval Street along Quintin Paredes, has gained a reputation for its tasty and affordable food.

New Po Heng Lumpia House is known for its delicious lumpiang sariwa, which is a type of fresh spring roll filled with a variety of vegetables and meat, and wrapped in a thin, delicate crepe-like wrapper. What sets New Po Heng's lumpiang sariwa apart is the freshness and quality of its ingredients, which are prepared daily and sourced from local markets. The restaurant also takes pride in its homemade peanut sauce, which is a perfect complement to the fresh and crunchy filling of the lumpia.

Additionally, the restaurant's lumpia is served in generous portions, making it a satisfying and filling meal despite being priced at less than PHP 100 each. With its high-quality ingredients, delicious flavors, and affordable prices, New Po Heng's lumpiang sariwa is a must-try for anyone exploring the food scene in Binondo.

5. Just Walk Around Binondo and Immerse Yourself in Unique Scenery

When walking around Binondo, Manila, there are many sights and experiences to take in. As the world's oldest Chinatown, Binondo offers a unique blend of Chinese and Filipino cultures, which can be seen in its architecture, street vendors, and businesses. 

Apart from the Binondo Church, the nearby plaza also offers a relaxing respite from the busy streets and is a great spot for people-watching. Foodies can explore the many restaurants and food stalls that line the streets, offering a wide range of Chinese and Filipino delicacies. Other notable attractions include the Seng Guan Temple, the Lucky Chinatown Mall, and the Escolta Street, which is a historic commercial district that dates back to the early 20th century. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or food, a walk around Binondo offers a fascinating and immersive experience that should not be missed.

Watch Must See Philippines' Binondo Travel and Food Vlog!