Join us as we delve into the vibrant world of Binondo, Manila's historic Chinatown, uncovering its rich cultural heritage and culinary delights. From traditional hopia pastries and master calligraphers to coffee cupping and fortune readings, this journey offers a unique glimpse into the heart of this ancient community.
It's another lunar year to celebrate life, and what a fun way to start the year of the wooden snake is to immerse yourself in the world's oldest Chinatown, housed in the busy street of Binondo, Manila. During a recent tour organized by Ford Philippines and conducted by popular tour guide, Ivan Man Dy of Old Manila Walks, our media group explored the rich culture and story of the community behind traditional and modern-day Binondo.
Under the scorching heat of the crowd that starts to jam and pack the streets of Escolta and Divisoria, one of the best first orders of business is to stop and take the perfect bite of Chinese pastries at the oldest Hopia Houses in Chinatown—Polland. For over six decades, Polland, which was built from scratch by Go So Po, has become well known for its pastry delicacy. If you are in for the challenge of not just getting a taste of the already-made hopia, Polland now offers a hopia-making class with Mrs. Abigail Tin, the owners’ daughter-in-law. It is a good bonding activity for friends and family, or if the stars align, you can also do it as a date for the coming Valentine’s Day. More than a treat of getting the labor of love for creating your own hopia, Polland just has every Chinese pastry you could think of like the infamous tikoy and especially hopia of wide variety and flavors—gold bars, hand-painted koi fish tikoy, choco fudge hopia, and cheesecake hopia.One way of learning about the community is witnessing a master calligrapher in their nature. With a delightful art experience, the media crew has also witnessed Dewey Tan’s work. He was able to carry out the tradition of the Chinese calligraphy art. Gifting everyone banners of well-wishes like “Xin nian kuai le”(a happy new year) or “Xiao Kou Chang Kai”(May you always have a smile). More than the first thing that’ll pop into our minds for Chinese afternoon drink would be the traditional tea. But, brewing in Escolta now resides in a coffee exploration like no other. Escolta Coffee—founded by Gabriel Villegas, a CQI Q Arabica grader, brings in coffee cupping in Chinatown. Gab has his own roastery and coffee shop that offers Batangas, Bukidnon, and coffee beans from all over the Philippines in one stop—Escolta Coffee. Level up your ‘Tara Kape!’ cravings with a brand-new experience. Who doesn’t love to know what the future awaits us? Worry no more as Denise Dorotan Chua has got it for you. Her third-generation Tinghun Guru Phils a leading Feng Shui reading house and Chinese weddings and engagement services. Denise and their store have the perfect charms for you to take on this year’s challenges. The media team gets a fortune reading experience and learns about what the stars have to say about our zodiac signs.Call out a Chinese food enthusiast to get an easy and delicious food grab at Quik Snack. Serving hot and flavorful Hokkien food since 1967. Just this short and sweet itinerary idea is one thing you can do if you get a chance to visit Binondo Chinatown. Truly it is a unique way to do it avoiding the long lines and the hassle. The ride to the city is also an easy breeze with a compact SUV like the Ford Territory that can check in your pasalubongs and still give you perfect legroom—its smart safety features including a 360-degree camera, hands-free liftgate, and a sleek moonroof just bring in style and comfort for you
CHINATOWN MANILA BINONDO FOOD CULTURE TRADITION TOURISM FORD TERRITORY
Philippines Latest News, Philippines Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Explore the Rich History and Culinary Delights of Binondo, Manila's Oldest ChinatownDiscover the vibrant culture, historical landmarks, and delectable food scene of Binondo, Manila's oldest Chinatown. From architectural gems and captivating street art to revered religious sites and culinary treasures, Binondo offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Read more »
Exploring Manila's Binondo: A Cultural Journey Beyond the FoodDive into the heart of Manila's vibrant Binondo district, venturing beyond the well-known food scene to uncover its rich cultural tapestry. Join us as we explore the lesser-known gems of this historic Chinatown, meeting local artisans and entrepreneurs who embody the spirit of Filipino-Chinese heritage.
Read more »
Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Global Celebrates Chinese Heritage and Cultural Diversity in ManilaThe inaugural Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Global (MMCG) pageant, taking place in Manila from January 12 to 20, 2025, unites contestants from across the globe to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions of the Chinese diaspora.
Read more »
Manila Standard, Author at Manila StandardDefining the News
Read more »
Holiday Inn Manila Galleria Embraces New Identity as Holiday Inn & Suites Manila GalleriaThe iconic Holiday Inn Manila Galleria transforms into Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria, marking a significant milestone in its history. The rebrand signifies the hotel's dedication to enhancing its offerings and catering to a wider range of guests seeking spacious and adaptable accommodations.
Read more »
Lucky dishes from Marriott Manila, Sheraton Manila for the new yearUSHER in the Year of the Wood Snake with auspicious culinary offerings from Marriott Manila and Sheraton Manila, celebrating one of the most cherished festivities in the Lunar calendar.
Read more »