Beyond its natural beauty, Puerto Princesa also surprises visitors with its impressive and ever-evolving food scene. From seaside dining to plant-based cafés and resort restaurants, every stop reveals the island’s culture and creativity. For several visits, I’ve explored many corners of the city to discover where locals and tourists love to dine. Whether you crave grilled seafood, vegan bowls, or specialty coffee, here’s a comprehensive guide on Where to Eat in Puerto Princesa City.
Ver De Palawan
Along Manalo Street, Ver De Palawan stands as a green oasis that serves nourishing plant-based meals in a tropical, garden-filled setting. Its exterior bursts with philodendrons, monstera, and vines. Stepping inside feels like entering a plant lover’s haven. The interiors match the vibe with wooden tables, soft lighting, and staff who exude warmth and mindfulness.
The menu celebrates vegan comfort food; nachos, burgers, smoothie bowls, and superfood drinks. I ordered the Happy Bowl with falafel, adlai, pickled beets, and tahini sauce. It was hearty, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Paired with a Teatox Smoothie of banana, mango, ginger, and cayenne, the meal felt both indulgent and healthy.
Grains Cafe Palawan
On Roxas Street, Grains Cafe Palawan welcomes early risers and plant-based foodies. It opens at 8AM, ideal for breakfast after exploring Baywalk or Plaza Cuartel. The interiors are bright and filled with subtle greenery, setting a calm morning mood.
Their menu is wide-ranging, from rice bowls to pastas and smoothie blends. I tried their Sisig Bowl made of tofu, onions, chilies, and vegan mayo over red rice. It was savory, tangy, and satisfying. The Pure Green Juice, made from cucumber, apple, and celery, refreshed me after a morning walk. Grains Cafe proves that vegan and vegetarian meals in Puerto Princesa can be comforting and full of flavor.
Gold Cup Specialty Coffee Roasters
Located along Rizal Avenue in Barangay Maningning, Gold Cup Specialty Coffee Roasters is a cozy haven for coffee lovers. It’s perfect for digital nomads and travelers seeking quiet breaks between island tours. The café’s minimalist interiors and the aroma of freshly ground coffee create a relaxing atmosphere.
I ordered their Matcha Latte, which turned into an instant favorite. It was creamy, earthy, and well-balanced. Their coffee lineup includes espresso-based and hand-brewed options using beans they roast in-house. Though they also serve pastries and sandwiches, the coffee craftsmanship stands out most. Gold Cup shows how Puerto Princesa’s café culture continues to grow with style and quality.
Yama Japanese Cave Bar
Inside Princesa Garden Island Resort in Bancao-Bancao, Yama Japanese Cave Bar blends sleek Japanese design with a stunning coastal view. The cave-inspired interiors use natural light and hidden alcoves, creating a luxurious yet peaceful atmosphere. At mid-afternoon, the vibe feels calm and breezy. As sunset arrives, the place transforms into one of the most photogenic dining spots in Puerto Princesa.
The menu offers Japanese favorites such as donburi, sushi, sashimi, and grilled skewers. I tried the Ebi Kushiyaki and Katsu Don. The shrimp skewers were crisp and flavorful, while the katsudon, though slightly tough, still comforting. Service felt friendly, though not flawless. Yama’s charm lies more in its ambiance than its culinary precision. Still, for travelers chasing a sunset view with style, it’s a memorable stop.
Bona’s Chaolong
Bona’s Chaolong tells a story of Vietnamese influence in Palawan. Near the airport, this humble eatery serves comforting Filipino-Vietnamese noodle soup that warms both locals and travelers.
Their Pork Buto-Buto Noodle with Beef Stew features generous meat portions and a rich, sweet broth. It’s simple, nostalgic, and very affordable. Bona’s is a must-stop for a warm bowl of comfort after a long day of exploration.
Other Food Spots in Puerto Princesa City
During my visit to Puerto Princesa a decade ago, I explored several restaurants that showcased the city’s rich local flavors and charm. Some of them, like Ka Lui Restaurant, Badjao Seafront Restaurant, and Itoy’s Coffee Haus, have stood the test of time and remain among the city’s favorites.
Ka Lui is perhaps the most sought-after restaurant in Puerto Princesa, known for its homey, art-filled interiors and fresh seafood dishes like Shrimps Choice Catch and lato salad. Badjao Seafront offers an unforgettable seaside dining experience, while Mang Itoy’s provides affordable yet quality coffee drinks—a cozy stop for travelers who love supporting local cafés.
Other memorable stops included Isla Casoy de Palawan Coffee Bar, Kinabuchs Grill and Bar, and Ka Inato, each offering something unique to the city’s culinary scene. Isla Casoy celebrates Palawan’s famous cashew crop through nutty frappes and local pastries.
Meanwhile, Kinabuchs brings life to Rizal Avenue with its lively atmosphere and Filipino comfort food. Ka Inato, with its colorful interiors and warm hospitality, completes the list with its signature Chicken Inato Wings and sweet banana-chocolate dessert. Together, these dining spots capture the authentic taste and heartwarming spirit of Puerto Princesa that continues to draw both locals and travelers alike.
Puerto Princesa City may be best known for its underground river, but its food scene deserves just as much attention. From resort restaurants to humble noodle shops, every dining stop reflects the city’s diversity and creativity. Whether sipping matcha at Gold Cup, savoring seafood at Badjao Seafront, or enjoying vegan bowls at Ver De Palawan and Grains Cafe, every bite tells a story.
So when you find yourself in Palawan’s capital, take time to explore Where to Eat in Puerto Princesa City. You’ll not only satisfy your cravings but also discover why the city remains one of the most flavorful destinations in the Philippines.
