Best Filipino Food in Dallas: A Flavorful Journey Through the Philippines’ Culinary Heritage

Feb 12

3 min read

Various Filipino dishes on a table with bold text "Best Filipino Food in Dallas - Must-Visit Spots" against a vibrant background. — Savor the vibrant flavors of Filipino cuisine with a curated selection of must-visit spots in Dallas, offering delectable dishes that capture the essence of the Philippines.

Dallas’ Filipino food scene is a vibrant blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that reflects the Philippines’ rich history as a cultural melting pot. From the robust taste of garlicky adobo and the satisfying crunch of crispy lumpia to the refreshing, decadent layers of halo-halo, every dish tells a story of home and heritage. Though the Filipino culinary scene in Dallas may be small, it bursts with authenticity and heart, offering both expats a nostalgic taste of home and newcomers an exciting discovery of Filipino tradition. This guide showcases the Best Filipino Food in Dallas, highlighting top restaurants and pop-ups that celebrate Filipino cuisine in all its vibrant glory. Join us as we explore must-visit spots where every bite is a heartfelt celebration of the Philippines, right here in the heart of Texas.

Explore Dallas’ Best Filipino Food – Authentic Flavors with a Heartwarming Twist

1. Marie’s Kitchen

A variety of dishes on a table: salad, sandwich, wrap, fried eggs, onion rings, and sauces. Colorful, inviting meal setting with a plant.

Specialty: Tocilog (marinated pork belly with garlic rice and egg) and Ube Pancakes (purple yam pancakes).
Highlights: Tucked inside a Greenville Avenue office building, this hidden gem serves all-day Filipino breakfast and comfort food. The cozy deli atmosphere and friendly staff make it a local favorite. Don’t miss their Lumpia Shanghai (fried pork spring rolls) and Tapsilog (thin-sliced steak with rice and eggs).
Location: 11910 Greenville Ave #103, Dallas, TX

2. Taste of Philippines

Sizzling Bangus Sisig on a hot plate, garnished with a sunny-side-up egg, green onions, sauce, and a lime wedge. Steaming with a savory aroma.

Specialty: Pancit Bihon (garlicky rice noodles) and Tapa (sweet-savory marinated beef).
Highlights: A warm, welcoming spot in Garland with vibrant decor and fast service. Their Chicken Adobo and Kare-Kare (peanut-based stew) are praised for balancing tradition and bold flavors.

3. Mauro’s Grill and Café – Filipino Cuisine

Plate of stir-fried noodles with vegetables, chicken, and a lemon wedge on a wooden table. Topped with green onions. Fork beside.

Specialty: Adobo Pork and Halo-Halo (layered dessert with shaved ice, ube, and sweet beans).
Highlights: Known for tender, juicy meats and homestyle cooking. The Lechon Kawali (crispy pork belly) and Sinigang (sour tamarind soup) are standouts.

4. Kabayan Filipino Store & Cafe

Sign for "1Kabayan Filipino Store & Cafe" with yellow "Pilipinas" text, Filipino flag emblem, sun, and stars on a dark background.

Specialty: Sinigang na Baboy (pork sour soup) and Dinuguan (blood stew).
Highlights: Part grocery store, part eatery, Kabayan offers hearty dishes and imported snacks like Ouma Rusks and Mrs. Ball’s Chutney. The Crab Fried Rice and Street Food Platter are crowd-pleasers.

5. DelCiano Pinoy Cuisine

Spring rolls stacked on a plate with two cups of red sauce in a cozy restaurant. Bar in background with muted TV screens.

Specialty: Kare-Kare (oxtail stew) and Pork Sisig (sizzling chopped pork with chili and lime).
Highlights: A festive Arlington spot with traditional decor and generous portions. Their Crispy Pata (deep-fried pork knuckle) is a must-try.

Must-Try Dishes

Adobo: The Philippines’ national dish, featuring meat marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic. Try it at Marie’s Kitchen or Taste of Philippines .
Halo-Halo: A colorful dessert with shaved ice, ube, leche flan, and jackfruit. Best at Mauro’s Grill .
Lechon: Crispy roasted pork belly. Find it at pop-ups like Ulam Dallas .
Spamsilog: Fried Spam with garlic rice and egg—a salty-savory breakfast staple at Marie’s Kitchen .

Dining Experiences for Every Mood

Hidden Gems

Marie’s Kitchen: A quirky office-building deli perfect for casual bites .
Kabayan: Grab groceries and dine in for a homey vibe .

Festive & Family-Friendly

DelCiano Pinoy Cuisine: Lively ambiance ideal for group dinners .
Kainan Sa Laguna (Plano): A communal spot with bold flavors like Bicol Express (spicy coconut stew) .

Pop-Ups & Events

Ulam Dallas: Anna Swann’s pop-up reimagines classics like Pork Sinigang with modern flair .

Why Filipino Cuisine Thrives in Dallas

Filipino food is often called the “original fusion cuisine,” blending Malay, Chinese, Spanish, and American influences . Dallas’ small but passionate Filipino community keeps traditions alive through family recipes and pop-ups, while newcomers are drawn to dishes like ube desserts and garlic rice. The pandemic slowed growth, but younger chefs are reviving the scene with creative twists on classics .