El Nido, Palawan is one of those destinations that feels unreal the first time you see it. Towering limestone cliffs rise straight out of clear turquoise water, small islands dot the horizon, and the air smells faintly of salt and grilled seafood by sunset.
Most people come for the famous island hopping tours, but many leave talking just as much about the food, the small restaurants hidden along sandy streets, and the quiet beach moments that happen between adventures.
If you are planning a trip, this guide shares the best food to try and the top places to visit in El Nido, based on real traveler experiences and what makes this corner of Palawan so special.
Exploring El Nido Town
El Nido town is where most journeys begin. It is busy, colorful, and full of life. Tricycles weave through narrow roads, dive shops and cafés sit side by side, and travelers from all over the world gather to plan their island tours.
The town beach may not be the most beautiful in the area, but it sets the tone for everything else. This is where boats return in the afternoon, restaurants start lighting their grills, and the sound of laughter mixes with the waves.
It is also where many of the best food spots are located.
Must-Try Food in El Nido
Fresh Grilled Seafood
Seafood is the heart of El Nido’s food scene. Most restaurants offer freshly caught fish, squid, shrimp, and lobster displayed right at the entrance.
Popular choices include grilled tuna belly, garlic butter shrimp, and whole fish cooked simply with salt, calamansi, and herbs. Paired with rice and eaten by the sea, it becomes one of those meals you remember long after the trip ends.
Filipino Comfort Dishes
Trying local food is part of understanding the place.
Chicken or pork adobo is one of the most common dishes. It is slow-cooked in soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic and tastes both savory and comforting.
Sinigang, a sour soup made with pork or shrimp and vegetables, is refreshing after a hot day. Kare-kare, a rich peanut stew, is another favorite for those wanting something filling and traditional.
For breakfast, many cafés serve longganisa (local sausage), garlic rice, and eggs, a perfect start before heading out on the water.
Best Restaurants and Food Spots in El Nido
Altrove Trattoria
Altrove is often mentioned as the best pizza place in El Nido. Their wood-fired oven produces thin, crispy pizzas that rival those in bigger cities.
After days of rice and seafood, many travelers find themselves craving pasta or pizza, and Altrove delivers every time.
Artcafé
Artcafé is both a restaurant and a travel hub. It is one of the best places for breakfast in town and offers smoothies, sandwiches, Filipino meals, and strong coffee.
You can also book tours here or browse souvenirs while waiting for your food.
Happiness Beach Bar
This lively spot is known for its relaxed atmosphere and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Their wraps, falafel, and fresh bowls are popular, especially for travelers wanting something lighter.
At night, it turns into a social space with music, cocktails, and soft beach lighting.
Local Carinderias
Some of the best meals come from small, family-run eateries called carinderias. They serve home-cooked Filipino food at affordable prices.
You simply point to what you want, sit down, and enjoy. It is one of the easiest ways to eat like a local.
Best Places to Visit in El Nido
Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon
These lagoons are often the highlight of island hopping tours. Surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, the water glows in shades of blue and green that look almost unreal.
Kayaking through narrow entrances into wide open lagoons feels peaceful and magical, especially in the early morning when fewer boats are around.
Secret Lagoon
Hidden behind a small rock opening, Secret Lagoon feels like a private sanctuary. You swim through a narrow gap and suddenly enter a quiet cove enclosed by stone walls.
It is one of those moments where everything goes quiet and you simply float and take it in.
Seven Commandos Beach
Seven Commandos Beach is known for its soft sand, clear water, and relaxed vibe. It is usually a stop during island tours and a great place to swim or rest.
There are small huts selling coconut juice, cold drinks, and snacks, making it easy to stay longer than planned.
Nacpan Beach
Nacpan Beach is about a 45-minute ride from town and offers a very different atmosphere. It is wide, peaceful, and far less crowded.
Here, you can walk along the shoreline for minutes without seeing many people, listen to the waves, and enjoy simple beach life with fresh coconut and local snacks from small huts.
Sunset Spots You Should Not Miss
Sunsets in El Nido are slow and beautiful.
Las Cabanas Beach is one of the most popular places to watch the sky change colors. Small bars line the hillside, offering drinks and simple food while you sit facing the ocean.
Another simple option is walking along the main beach in town as boats return from tours and the light turns golden across the bay.
Travel Tips for Food Lovers
Carry small bills since many local places do not have change.
Drink plenty of water or coconut juice to stay hydrated.
Ask locals for food recommendations. Some of the best spots are not online.
Do not be afraid to try unfamiliar dishes. Filipino food is gentle on the palate and easy to enjoy.
Why El Nido Leaves a Lasting Impression
El Nido is not polished or perfect. Roads are dusty, Wi-Fi is slow, and rain sometimes arrives without warning.
But that is part of its charm.
Days revolve around the sea, simple meals, friendly conversations, and moments where everything slows down. You wake up early for boat tours, eat grilled fish by the shore, and fall asleep to the sound of waves.
It is a place where food tastes better after swimming, conversations feel easier with strangers, and sunsets quietly remind you to stop rushing.
El Nido does not try to impress. It simply does.