From Chicken Butt to Bulalo: Unearthing Santa Ana's Hidden Foodie Paradise!

Natalie Tarin
Sep 26, 2025
4 min read

Hey there, explorer!

We're always on the hunt for those off-the-beaten-path experiences, those secret corners of a city that truly capture its essence. And let me tell you, our recent food adventure in Santa Ana, Manila was exactly that – a vibrant, delicious, and wonderfully unexpected dive into a neighborhood often overlooked by the usual foodie crowds.

If you're looking for an authentic taste of Manila, far from the polished malls and tourist traps, then Santa Ana is your next must-visit. It's a place where history whispers from every corner, and the food tells stories of generations. And trust us, you'll want to hear (and taste!) every single one.

Kicking Things Off (with a Cheeky Start!) at Che- Chicken House Express

We started our culinary quest bright and early, and we didn't hold back! Our first stop was the legendary Che- Chicken House Express, a local institution known for its fantastic grilled chicken. But, ever the adventurous eaters, we bypassed the usual cuts and went straight for the good stuff: Chicken Butt!

Yes, you read that right. And honestly? It was glorious! Perfectly grilled, crunchy, and surprisingly tender. It set the tone for an epic food adventure – bold, authentic, and utterly delicious. If you're going to dive deep into local cuisine, you've got to commit, and chicken butt is a fantastic way to do it!

A Glimpse of the Pasig: Manila Boat Club

After that delightfully greasy start, we took a short detour to the Manila Boat Club. Tucked away along the Pasig River, this historic spot offers a serene glimpse into a different side of Manila. It's a charming contrast to the bustling streets, with old boathouses and the gentle lapping of the river providing a moment of calm reflection before our next food stop.

History & Solace: The Church of Santa Ana's Secret

Our journey through Santa Ana isn't just about the food; it's about soaking in the history. We made our way to the magnificent Parish of Our Lady of the Abandoned (Santa Ana Church), a National Historical Landmark. Stepping inside, you're immediately struck by its grandeur and sense of peace.

But the real treat? Discovering its incredible "secret prayer room." Deep beneath the altar lies an excavated area revealing ancient artifacts and foundations, offering a truly unique and humbling experience. It’s a powerful reminder of the layers of history that exist just beneath the surface in this incredible city.

Palabok Perfection at Beth's!

With our souls nourished, it was time to nourish our bellies again! Our next stop was a local favorite, Beth's Palabok. Oh my goodness, the palabok here is a revelation!

Each spoonful of those thick rice noodles, bathed in a rich, flavorful shrimp-infused sauce, and topped with generous amounts of tinapa flakes, chicharon, and a perfectly sliced hard-boiled egg, was pure comfort. It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and savor every single bite. A definite must-try!

Plaza Hugo: A Street Food Symphony!

Then came the grand finale of our savory tour: Plaza Hugo. This bustling square is a veritable playground for street food lovers, and we dove in headfirst!

The air was thick with delicious aromas as we hopped from stall to stall:

Crispy Garlic Peanuts: The perfect salty, crunchy snack to munch on as we explored.
Irresistible Fried Chicken: Golden, crispy, and seasoned just right – a timeless classic.
Smoky Barbecue Skewers: Marinated pork, grilled to perfection, with that signature sweet and savory glaze. An absolute staple of Filipino street food!

Sweet Endings & Hearty Fare: Puto Bumbong, Bibingka, and Bulalo!

As the day mellowed, our taste buds turned to classic Filipino desserts. We were lucky enough to visit during the "Ber" months (leading up to Christmas), which means two things: Puto Bumbong and Bibingka!

The vibrant purple puto bumbong, steamed in bamboo tubes and slathered with butter, grated coconut, and muscovado sugar, was warm, fragrant, and heavenly. Right alongside it, the fluffy, slightly charred bibingka – a rice cake cooked in a clay pot – offered that comforting taste of tradition.

And to truly round off our epic foodie journey, we settled down for a hearty bowl of Bulalo. This rich, beef shank soup, with its tender meat, vegetables, and that glorious bone marrow, was the perfect comforting end to a day of exploration. It's a full meal in itself and the ultimate Filipino comfort food!

Why Santa Ana is a Must-Try for The Travelling Foxes

Santa Ana, Manila, might not be on every tourist's radar, and perhaps that's part of its charm. It retains an authentic, unpretentious vibe that's hard to find elsewhere. It’s a place where every bite comes with a story, and every corner reveals a piece of Manila's soul.

So, if you're an adventurous eater looking to truly experience the Philippines beyond the usual spots, pack your bags (and your biggest appetite!), and make your way to Santa Ana. From cheeky chicken butts to historic churches and soul-warming bulalo, this hidden gem is waiting to be discovered!

Have you explored Santa Ana? What were your favorite finds? Let us know in the comments below! If you're looking for other food trip adventure tours, check these out: 1. Full Day Manila City and Food Crawl Experience 2. Binondo Food Crawl Experience 3. Godel Chocolate Factory Tour in Manila