Iloilo City is often referred to as the “City of Love” in terms of food spots because it is renowned for its delicious and diverse culinary offerings. While the nickname “City of Love” is more commonly associated with the city’s cultural and romantic aspects, it can also be extended to the love and passion that the people of Iloilo put into their cooking and the love that visitors have for the city’s food.

Here are some reasons why Iloilo City is considered a culinary haven:

Rich Culinary Heritage: Iloilo City has a rich culinary heritage influenced by a mix of Filipino, Spanish, and Chinese cuisines. This fusion of flavors has resulted in a unique and diverse array of dishes that are loved by locals and visitors alike.

Seafood Delicacies: Being located on the coast, Iloilo City is famous for its fresh seafood. You can savor a variety of seafood dishes such as grilled fish, scallops, shrimp, and crab prepared in various ways, including the popular “sinigang na hipon” (shrimp sour soup) and “talaba” (oysters).

La Paz Batchoy: One of the most iconic dishes of Iloilo is “La Paz Batchoy.” This noodle soup is made with savory pork broth, egg noodles, and pork offal, and garnished with crushed pork cracklings, green onions, and sometimes, a slice of boiled egg. It’s a comfort food loved by locals and visitors alike.

Fresh and Exotic Fruits: Iloilo is known for its sweet and exotic fruits like mangoes, pomelos, and lanzones. The surrounding towns of the city have fertile soil and favorable climate contribute to the production of high-quality fruits.

Food Markets and Festivals: Iloilo City is home to bustling food markets and food festivals. The markets, such as the Iloilo Central Market, offer a wide variety of fresh produce, street food, and local delicacies. The city also hosts food festivals like the “Dinagyang Festival” and “Batchoy Festival” where you can sample an array of local dishes.

Local Bakeries and Sweets: Iloilo City has a thriving bakery scene, offering a wide range of bread, pastries, and sweets. Try “pan de sal” (Filipino bread roll), “biscocho” (sweet toasted bread), and “piaya” (a sweet flatbread filled with muscovado sugar and sesame seeds).

Passionate Cooks and Chefs: The people of Iloilo are passionate about their food, and many talented cooks and chefs take pride in creating delicious and innovative dishes. This passion for cooking contributes to the city’s reputation as a food lover’s paradise.

Warm Hospitality: Just like their warm hospitality in general, Ilonggos take great care in serving their food. Visitors often feel welcomed and appreciated when dining in Iloilo City.

In summary, Iloilo City’s nickname as the “City of Love” in terms of food spot reflects its rich culinary heritage, delicious local dishes, and the passion and love that the people put into their cooking. It’s a place where you can experience the warmth of both the food and the people who prepare it.