Davao City, located in the southern part of the Philippines, is a melting pot of cultures and flavors. It offers a diverse array of restaurants, from local cuisine to international dishes, that cater to the discerning palates of its visitors and residents. Here are the top 15 restaurants in Davao City:
Lachi’s Sans Rival Atbp.
Lachi’s Sans Rival Atbp. is one of the most famous restaurants in Davao City. It started as a home-based business in 2003, serving only a few friends and family. Eventually, it became popular, and the owners decided to open a restaurant in 2007. Lachi’s has a wide selection of Filipino dishes, desserts, and pastries.
Top 5 Best Sellers:
- Pork Ribs – a slow-cooked pork dish marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce.
- Seafood Laksa – a spicy Malaysian soup made with coconut milk, seafood, and noodles.
- Silvanas – a Filipino cookie made of buttercream sandwiched between two cashew-meringue wafers.
- Durian Cheesecake – a creamy cheesecake flavored with durian, a local fruit known for its strong smell.
- Sans Rival – a popular Filipino dessert made with layers of buttercream and cashew meringue.
Type of Food: Filipino dishes, desserts, and pastries.
Setup of the Place: Air-conditioned restaurant.
Price Range: P250-P500 ($5-$10) per person.
Location: Door 1-H Values School Building, Ruby Street, Marfori Heights, Davao City
Claude’s Le Cafe de Ville
Claude’s Le Cafe de Ville is a French-inspired restaurant located in a historic house in the heart of Davao City. It was established in 1996 by French Chef Claude Le Neindre, who moved to the Philippines in the 1980s. The restaurant has a cozy and romantic ambiance, making it perfect for date nights or intimate gatherings.
Top 5 Best Sellers:
- Duck Confit – a French dish made with duck legs slow-cooked in its own fat.
- Beef Bourguignon – a classic French stew made with beef, red wine, and vegetables.
- Escargots – French snails cooked in butter, garlic, and parsley.
- Creme Brulee – a classic French dessert made with custard and caramelized sugar on top.
- Bouillabaisse – a traditional French fish stew with vegetables, herbs, and spices.
Type of Food: French-inspired cuisine.
Setup of the Place: Air-conditioned restaurant with outdoor seating.
Price Range: P500-P1,500 ($10-$30) per person.
Location: 16 Juna Avenue, Juna Subdivision, Matina, Davao City
Marina Tuna Seafood Restaurant
Marina Tuna Seafood Restaurant is a popular seafood restaurant in Davao City. It started as a small seafood market in 2002, but eventually expanded to a full-service restaurant. Marina Tuna is known for serving fresh and delicious seafood, particularly their tuna dishes, which are caught locally in the waters surrounding Davao City.
Top 5 Best Sellers:
- Grilled Tuna Jaw – a grilled tuna jaw marinated in soy sauce, calamansi, and spices.
- Tuna Sashimi – fresh raw tuna served with wasabi and soy sauce.
- Kinilaw – a Filipino ceviche made with fresh tuna, onions, ginger, and vinegar.
- Baked Tahong – baked mussels with cheese and garlic butter.
- Buttered Shrimp – sautéed shrimp with butter and garlic.
Type of Food: Seafood.
Setup of the Place: Air-conditioned restaurant with outdoor seating.
Price Range: P500-P1,000 ($10-$20) per person.
Location: J.P. Laurel Avenue, Bajada, Davao City
The Fat Cow
The Fat Cow is a steakhouse and grill that specializes in premium beef and meat dishes. It was founded by two friends who shared a passion for food and travel. The Fat Cow offers a range of dishes, from classic steaks to modern fusion cuisine.
Top 5 Best Sellers:
- Ribeye Steak – a juicy and flavorful cut of beef served with your choice of sauce.
- Wagyu Burger – a juicy and tender burger made with wagyu beef.
- Beef Rendang – a spicy Indonesian beef curry served with rice.
- Truffle Fries – crispy fries drizzled with truffle oil and parmesan cheese.
- Chocolate Lava Cake – a rich and decadent chocolate cake with a molten center.
Type of Food: Steakhouse and grill.
Setup of the Place: Air-conditioned restaurant.
Price Range: P500-P1,500 ($10-$30) per person.
Location: McArthur Highway, Matina, Davao City
Cafe Tavera
Cafe Tavera is a casual dining restaurant that serves a mix of Filipino and international cuisine. It was established in 2002 by a group of friends who wanted to create a restaurant with a cozy and friendly atmosphere. Cafe Tavera also offers a wide selection of cakes and pastries.
Top 5 Best Sellers:
- Beef Salpicao – a Filipino dish made with tender beef, garlic, and soy sauce.
- Kare-Kare – a Filipino stew made with oxtail, vegetables, and peanut sauce.
- Pizza Margherita – a classic pizza topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil.
- Chicken Cordon Bleu – a chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese, and breaded.
- Sans Rival Cake – a Filipino dessert made with layers of buttercream and cashew meringue.
Type of Food: Filipino and international cuisine.
Setup of the Place: Air-conditioned restaurant.
Price Range: P250-P500 ($5-$10) per person.
Location: Camus Street, Davao City
Balik Bukid
Balik Bukid is a farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on using locally sourced and organic ingredients. It was founded by a group of young entrepreneurs who wanted to promote sustainable farming and healthy eating. Balik Bukid offers a range of dishes that showcase the flavors of Mindanao.
Top 5 Best Sellers:
- Sinuglaw – a dish made with grilled pork belly and fresh tuna, marinated in vinegar and spices.
- Crispy Pata – a Filipino dish made with deep-fried pork knuckles.
- Chicken Inasal – a Filipino grilled chicken dish marinated in calamansi, lemongrass, and spices.
- Halo-halo – a Filipino dessert made with shaved ice, milk, and a variety of toppings.
- Balik Bukid Burger – a burger made with organic beef, lettuce, tomato, and homemade sauce.
Type of Food: Farm-to-table cuisine.
Setup of the Place: Rustic and homey outdoor seating surrounded by a farm.
Price Range: P250-P500 ($5-$10) per person.
Location: Quimpo Boulevard, Matina, Davao City
Yellow Fin Seafood Restaurant
Yellow Fin Seafood Restaurant is a family-owned restaurant that specializes in seafood dishes. It was founded in 2008 by the Lim family, who were originally from General Santos City, a nearby fishing town. Yellow Fin is known for its fresh and flavorful seafood dishes.
Top 5 Best Sellers:
- Grilled Blue Marlin – a grilled fish served with garlic rice and vegetables.
- Seafood Kare-Kare – a Filipino stew made with seafood, vegetables, and peanut sauce.
- Buttered Shrimp – sautéed shrimp with butter and garlic.
- Crispy Squid – deep-fried squid rings served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce.
- Tuna Sashimi – fresh raw tuna served with wasabi and soy sauce.
Type of Food: Seafood.
Setup of the Place: Air-conditioned restaurant.
Price Range: P300-P700 ($6-$14) per person.
Location: Victoria Plaza Compound, J.P. Laurel Avenue, Bajada, Davao City
Jack’s Ridge
Jack’s Ridge is a hilltop restaurant and resort that offers stunning views of Davao City. It was named after Jack Immanuel, an American soldier who fell in love with a Filipina and settled in Davao City. Jack’s Ridge offers a range of dishes, from Filipino favorites to international cuisine.
Top 5 Best Sellers:
- Crispy Pata – a Filipino dish made with deep-fried pork knuckles.
- Sinigang na Hipon – a sour Filipino soup made with shrimp and vegetables.
- Adobo Flakes – a Filipino dish made with shredded pork cooked in soy sauce and vinegar.
- Tuna Sashimi – fresh raw tuna served with wasabi and soy sauce.
- Beef Tapa – a Filipino breakfast dish made with marinated beef, served with garlic rice and egg.
Type of Food: Filipino and international cuisine.
Setup of the Place: Outdoor seating with a view of the city.
Price Range: P300-P700 ($6-$14) per person.
Location: Shrine Hills, Matina, Davao City
Lachi’s Sans Rival Atbp
Lachi’s Sans Rival Atbp is a cozy and homey restaurant that specializes in Filipino comfort food and desserts. It was founded in 2007 by Lachi Balangcod, who started selling her famous Sans Rival cakes from home. Today, Lachi’s is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Top 5 Best Sellers:
- Pork BBQ – grilled pork skewers served with garlic rice and vegetables.
- Kare-Kare – a Filipino stew made with oxtail, tripe, and peanut sauce.
- Chicken Ala Pobre – a Filipino dish made with chicken sautéed in garlic and served with rice.
- Oreo Sans Rival – a layered cake made with Oreo cookies and buttercream.
- Choco Lava – a warm chocolate cake with a molten chocolate center.
Type of Food: Filipino comfort food and desserts.
Setup of the Place: Cozy and homey air-conditioned restaurant.
Price Range: P250-P500 ($5-$10) per person.
Location: Ruby Street, Marfori Heights, Davao City
Vikings Luxury Buffet
Vikings Luxury Buffet is a popular chain of buffet restaurants in the Philippines. It offers a wide variety of dishes, from Filipino favorites to international cuisine. Vikings is known for its luxurious ambiance and all-you-can-eat dining experience.
Top 5 Best Sellers:
- Lechon – a Filipino roasted pig.
- Sushi – a Japanese dish made with vinegared rice and various toppings.
- Steak – a dish made with beef, grilled or pan-fried to perfection.
- Crispy Pata – a Filipino dish made with deep-fried pork knuckles.
- Halo-halo – a Filipino dessert made with shaved ice, milk, and a variety of toppings.
Type of Food: Buffet-style Filipino and international cuisine.
Setup of the Place: Luxurious and air-conditioned restaurant.
Price Range: P800-P1500 ($16-$30) per person.
Location: SM Lanang Premier, J.P. Laurel Avenue, Lanang, Davao City
RBG Bar & Grill
RBG Bar & Grill is a casual dining restaurant located at the Park Inn by Radisson in Davao City. They serve a mix of local and international dishes, with a focus on grilled meats and seafood. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance, with indoor and outdoor seating options available.
RBG Bar & Grill has been around for several years, and over time, they have expanded their menu to include more diverse options. Some of their top 5 best sellers include their grilled pork belly, grilled tuna belly, grilled chicken, seafood paella, and nachos with beef and cheese. They also offer a variety of cocktails and other alcoholic beverages.
Type of food: International and local
Setup of the place: Indoor and outdoor seating
Price range: Php 200-800
Location: Park Inn by Radisson, Davao City
Tiny Kitchen Bakery & Cafe
Tiny Kitchen Bakery & Cafe is a cozy cafe located in the heart of Davao City. They serve a variety of baked goods, sandwiches, pasta dishes, and coffee drinks. The cafe has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating options available.
The cafe was started by a couple who had a passion for baking and cooking. Over time, they have developed a loyal following in Davao City for their delicious and homemade-style dishes. Some of their top 5 best sellers include their panini sandwiches, pesto pasta, blueberry cheesecake, iced mocha latte, and chocolate cake.
Type of food: Baked goods, sandwiches, pasta
Setup of the place: Indoor and outdoor seating
Price range: Php 100-300
Location: F. Torres St., Davao City
Huckleberry Southern Kitchen & Bar
Huckleberry Southern Kitchen & Bar is a restaurant that specializes in Southern-style cuisine. They serve a variety of dishes inspired by the American South, such as fried chicken, barbecue, and seafood. The restaurant has a rustic and cozy atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating options available.
Huckleberry Southern Kitchen & Bar was started by a group of friends who had a passion for Southern-style cooking. Over time, they have developed a loyal following in Davao City for their delicious and authentic dishes. Some of their top 5 best sellers include their chicken and waffles, smoked beef brisket, shrimp and grits, pulled pork barbecue, and fried chicken.
Type of food: Southern-style cuisine
Setup of the place: Indoor and outdoor seating
Price range: Php 200-800
Location: Vibo Place, Davao City
Bondi & Bourke
Bondi & Bourke is a restaurant that specializes in Australian cuisine. They serve a variety of dishes inspired by Australian flavors and ingredients, such as grilled meats, seafood, and burgers. The restaurant has a chic and modern atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating options available.
Bondi & Bourke was started by a group of friends who had a passion for Australian cuisine. Over time, they have developed a loyal following in Davao City for their unique and flavorful dishes. Some of their top 5 best sellers include their barramundi fish and chips, wagyu beef burger, kangaroo steak, lamb shank, and grilled prawns.
Type of food: Australian cuisine
Setup of the place: Indoor and outdoor seating
Price range: Php 300-1000
Location: Pryce Business Park, J.P. Laurel Ave, Davao City
Ahfat Seafood Plaza
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahfatseafoodplaza/
Ahfat Seafood Plaza is a seafood restaurant located in the Chinatown area of Davao City. They serve a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including crabs, shrimps, clams, and fish. The restaurant has a casual and laid-back atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating options available.
Ahfat Seafood Plaza has been around for several years and has become a popular spot for seafood lovers in Davao City. Some of their top 5 best sellers include their chili crab, buttered shrimp, grilled squid, seafood soup, and crispy fried tilapia.
Type of food: Seafood
Setup of the place: Indoor and outdoor seating
Price range: Php 300-1000
Location: Davao Chinatown, Davao City
Davao City is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide variety of dishes that cater to every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for local delicacies, international cuisine, or just some good old-fashioned comfort food, Davao City has something for everyone.
Based on our list of the top 15 restaurants in Davao City, there’s no shortage of options to choose from. From the farm-to-table cuisine of Balik Bukid to the luxurious buffet experience of Vikings, each restaurant offers a unique and memorable dining experience.
We highly recommend that you try as many of these restaurants as possible during your visit to Davao City. Not only will you get to explore the local food scene, but you’ll also get to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Davaoeños.
So go ahead, indulge in the flavors of Davao City, and bon appétit!
Top 15 Restaurants in Davao City, Philippines
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