This Binondo Food Tour Will Feed Both Your Mind and Stomach

(SPOT.ph) Binondo is one of the biggest Chinatowns in the world; and to many Filipinos, it is a treasure trove of Chinese cuisine and delicacies. Of course, we all know of Binondo's rich connection to food, but the typical Filipino knows little about its importance to the Filipino-Chinese community. Not many know this, but Binondo was once a barrio designated by the Spaniards for Chinese migrants. Today, it has thrived to become a bustling area open to not only those of Chinese descent but also to foreigners and Filipinos.

With such a rich history at its core, it's an interesting place to explore and know beyond the superficial food haunts. Tours, such as an upcoming Binondo Food Crawl by Don't Skip Manila and the Chinatown Museum, aim to tell the Filipino-Chinese story of Binondo while simultaneously filling our stomachs with Chinese food. It's something we definitely can't sleep on. 

Also read:
The SPOT.ph Guide to Chinese Food
This Museum in a Mall Gives You a Closer Look at Binondo, Manila

Here's what to expect from this Binondo Food Crawl:

For P1,200 per person, this all-inclusive tour runs for a limited time on September 17, 24, and October 1. It will treat its guests to a food crawl combined with a history lesson on the famous Chinatown and neighboring areas. Think of it as a chance to get the low-down on the secrets of Binondo while treating yourself to some Chinese snacks along the way.

Your journey begins at the New Binondo Arch in Escolta. You'll be welcomed by the stories of Chinese migrants and how they developed the area while also integrating with the Filipino culture of the time.

Then, you'll make your way to Polland Hopia Factory, one of Binondo's famous bakeries, where you will learn the art of making hopia or mung bean cake.

After that experience, the next stop will be another history lesson in front of the Binondo Church. It's the church designated by the Dominicans to cater to the Chinese migrants who converted to Christianity.

Then, you'll visit and eat at some of Binondo's famous restaurants, such as Toho Panciteria Antigua, the oldest restaurant in the Philippines, and Wai Ying Dimsum.

After having your fill of Chinese food, you'll head to the Chinatown Museum for one last history lesson before you go your merry way. 

The tour lasts about three and a half hours. So be ready for a lot of walking and learning when you sign up for this. 

Binondo Food Crawl is on September 17, 24, and October 1. The fee is P1,200 per person. For more information, follow Chinatown Museum on Facebook.

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