Manila Chinatown

Arches guard the entry points of Binondo (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

The Manila Chinatown or more popularly known locally as Binondo is the oldest Chinatown in the world. This bustling community is a melting pot where local and Chinese cultures converge.  I am very fond of Chinese cuisine that is why I frequent this area in this part of Manila; however, I have discovered that it offers so much more than just satiating the palate. 

You know you're here. (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

Although the the former shopping districts of Escolta and Avenida are more popularly known, I would like to introduce you to the lesser known areas of this vibrant community. 

Ongpin Bridge (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

First let me tell that traversing the colourful and often congested narrow streets is in itself a wonderful journey.  My fascination is even more ignited by the Chinese goods that line the streets. Antiques, ceramics, tall vases, jade figurines, aromatic cakes, medicines, feng sui items and other typical Chinese products will surely tempt your eyes and most probably you won't leave this place without buying one. 

Store Number 924 on Ongpin Street (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

With reference to my earlier statement of visiting this place to indulge in their delectable Chinese dishes, there are several exquisite Chinese restaurants in Binondo, but what I will be recommending you to try is the favourite among the local people - Estero.  

Entrance to Estero (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

Situated along a creek (hence the name), Estero is a simple food alley where you can order restaurant-quality dishes at very affordable prices. Though the place is right beside the obviously dirty creek, the supposed pungent smell from the creek won't bother customers. Trust me. The local ambiance is definitely not for the fancy-seekers, but well suited for the fun and adventure seekers. 

View of the Estero from Ongpin Bridge (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

Simple Tables and Chairs await each eager customer. (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

So what did we eat? 

Fresh ingredients (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

1. Pancit

2. Stuffed Squid 

3.Buttered Shrimps

4. Seafood Hotpot

5. Spicy Spareribs 

If you're wandering in Binondo or waiting for a rendezvous, I found this promenade right beside  Mandarin Supermarket along Ongpin Street where you can sit and relax. This is also a convenient area to wait for friends on your way to Estero which located just across. 

As I explore this district, I have discovered that one can get almost anything here. There are several entry points to Binondo, but I usually like taking the Recto entry point because I like visiting Aranque Market. From there, I traverse Tomas Mapua street all the way south until I reach a busier road, That's Ongpin Street - the main street in Binondo. Ongpin street is lined with shops that sell almost anything that you want and need. Ongpin is known for jewellery. Here is a list of what you can find on some of the streets in Binondo. 

1. Ongpin Street 

This streets is filled with restaurants and souvenir shops. 

Jewellery Shops (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

Big and authentic Chinese Restaurants such as this one (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

Anchor Sky Suites (Photo by Gregg Manalo) 

2. Tomas Mapua and Soler Streets

    Home improvements needs? Go to these streets and most probably they have what you are looking 

    for -  simple to luxurious lightings, metal crafts, bath fixtures, etc.  

3. Sabino Padilla Street

Chinatown Lai Lai Hotel (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

Manila Downtown YMCA

4. Salazar Street