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Start Here: Filipino Snacks Every First-Timer MUST Try

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Welcome to the snack aisle of my childhood! These are the Filipino snacks I'd happily force my non-Filipino friends to try. Some are sweet, some are salty, and a few? Just straight-up weird… in the best way. 😏
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Sweet Treats 🍫

These are the sugary, chocolatey treats I grew up with. If you love dessert, you'll definitely love these too.

 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
It tastes like toasted flour and creamy milk coming together in a quiet love affair. It is sweet, simple, and just the right amount of sweet. The moment you take a bite, it crumbles instantly, soft and sandy on the tongue (some people aren't into tha...
Goldilocks Classic Polvoron (12 pieces, 10.60 oz)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
They're sweet and tangy with just the right chew, kind of like candy but you can still tell it's real fruit. The texture is soft and a little sticky, and the flavor lingers in the best way.
Philippine Brand Dried Mangoes (100g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
This one's sweet and nutty and melts in your mouth with a creamy roasted peanut flavor. The texture is soft and a little crumbly and has that distinct toasted peanut taste with just enough milk chocolate to balance it. If you love peanut butter and c...
Hany Milk Chocolate Peanut Bars
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
This tastes like creamy milk chocolate with a slightly grainy texture and a hint of cocoa bitterness. It melts easily in your hand but also kind of melts in your mouth. I always keep a few in my bag just in case I crave something quick and chocolatey...
Ricoa Flat Tops Milk Chocolate
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
This one's been my favorite since I was a kid. It's chocolate-flavored milk powder in a sachet with a straw and is kind of malty, milky, and just the right amount of chocolatey. Just don't slurp too fast or you'll end up coughing like crazy (but that...
Mik-Mik Sweetened Choco Powder
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
This is chewy, chocolatey, and packed with texture. You get caramel, nougat, and a bit of crunch from the peanuts. It is sweet and kinda like a Filipino version of a Snickers. I love how it feels like a full dessert in just one bar.
Jack 'n Jill Cloud 9
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
This one is sweet, crunchy, and creamy all in one bite. You get the crisp cookie bits wrapped in smooth white chocolate, with just the right crunch from the wafer inside.
Rebisco Choco Mucho Cookies & Cream (25g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
It has this deep, bittersweet taste that I really enjoy when I'm not in the mood for something too sweet. The crunch from the wafer mixed with the chewy caramel and smooth dark chocolate makes it super satisfying. Compared to the cookies & cream ...
Rebisco Choco Mucho Dark Chocolate (25g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
A soft and fluffy marshmallow sits on top of a light biscuit base, all covered in smooth, chocolatey coating. The texture is pillowy inside yet slightly crisp at the bottom, with a sweet, creamy taste that melts quickly in your mouth. It's definitely...
Fibisco Choco Mallows (100g)

Salty Bites 🥨

Crunchy and flavorful! These are the go-to snacks for merienda, binge-watching, or just vibing.

 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
What's a Filipino snack without chicharon? Fried pork rinds are crispy, crunchy, and full of that classic pork flavor. They are salty, satisfying, and perfect for snacking anytime. People love pairing them with beer, dipping them in vinegar, or even ...
Elena's Original Lapid Fried Pork Rinds, Classic (85g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
Crunchy, salty, and packed with smoky barbecue flavor. Chippy is the kind of snack you can't stop eating. The chips are light and crispy, with just the right kick of seasoning. Perfect for munching anytime you're craving something savory.
Jack 'n Jill Chippy Corn Chips Barbecue (110g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
This one is also crunchy, cheesy, and a little salty. Cheese Rings are light and airy but loaded with bold cheese flavor. My mom loves this one.
Regent Cheese Rings Cheese Flavored (60g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
Golden Sweet Corn is a snack that's super easy to enjoy. Light and crunchy with a sweet corn flavor and its texture is airy and melts as you chew, almost like puffed corn candy.
Regent Golden Sweet Corn (60g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
These are thin, hexagon-shaped chips with a light, crispy crunch. The sour cream and onion flavor is tangy, creamy, and savory, giving a nice balance of flavors.
Jack 'n Jill Piattos Sour Cream and Onion (85g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
If sour cream isn't really your thing, the cheese flavor is the way to go. The shape and thin crunch are the same as the sour cream one, but this time it's coated in a bold, cheesy flavor. It is savory, a little salty, and perfect if you are into cla...
Jack 'n Jill Piattos Cheese (85g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
It has a sweet and smoky barbecue taste that's both savory and slightly tangy. The texture is crunchy since it is made with whole grain. We like to call it a “tiny roof (bubong in Filipino)” because of the ridges 😆
Jack 'n Jill Nova Homestyle BBQ Flavor (78g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
Nagaraya garlic flavor are super crunchy with that bold, garlicky taste that keeps you coming back for more. The coating is crisp, while the peanut inside stays nutty and satisfying. I love this!!!!! Honestly, I could eat it all day.
Nagaraya Cracker Nuts (Garlic)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
It has a smoky-sweet barbecue flavor with an extra crunchy coating and a nutty peanut inside. The mix of the crisp shell and savory-sweet taste makes every bite really satisfying.
Nagaraya Cracker Nuts (Barbecue)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
It has a strong garlicky kick mixed with that classic adobo-style savory flavor. The peanuts are roasted and crunchy, and the seasoning really seeps into every bite so you get full flavor, not just on the outside. If you love garlic and salty-savory ...
Sugo Garlic Adobo Peanuts (100 g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
A burst of savory, rich powdered cheese flavor hits your tongue first, followed by a satisfying and airy crunch that feels light and crispy. It's a comforting, cheesy snack that brings a little bit of fun to every bite and a favorite for a reason.
Nutri Snack Cheeze-It (Cheese)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
Ring-shaped chips coated in a bold cheesy flavor. The texture is light and crispy, and the cheese taste is savory with just the right amount of saltiness.
Jack 'n Jill Roller Coaster Cheese Party Pack (225g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
A savory and crispy snack that combines a strong, almost sweet, shrimp taste with a light, airy crunch. Its texture is similar to a puffed rice or cracker. You can enjoy it on its own or dipped in vinegar for an extra kick.
Regent Tempura Shrimp-Flavored (100 g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
It has a strong, cheesy flavor that is savory and a little salty. The sticks are light, crispy, and airy with a wheat-based texture. It is a simple, tasty snack that's perfect when you're craving something cheesy and crunchy.
Oishi Rinbee Cheese Sticks (85 g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
A tasty mix of peanuts, cashews, and other nuts coated in a slightly sweet and salty shell. The nuts inside stay crunchy, giving a satisfying bite every time. It is a snack that's both flavorful and fun to munch on. This one's perfect for “pulutan” o...
Ding Dong Snack Mixed Nuts (100g)

Sour Picks 🍋

These will make your face crumple a little, but in a fun way. Tangy, weird, and sometimes a little weird if you're not used to them.

 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
This one has a really, really sour and tangy flavor with just the right touch of salt. The pieces are small, bite-sized, and super crunchy, almost like a crispy pork rind. I love this so much.
Oishi Cracklings in Salt & Vinegar (50g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
A vegetarian-friendly chicharon snack with a sour and tangy flavor. These puffy, extra crispy green pea crackers are flavored with Sukang Paombong, a traditional Filipino nipa palm vinegar. It is tangy and vinegary, but not as sour as Oishi Crackling...
Jack 'n Jill Mang Juan Sukang Paombong (90g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
This one has a sharp vinegar tang with a strong hit of garlic. The chips are thin and extra crunchy, and each bite is savory and zesty, the kind of flavor that instantly wakes up your taste buds.
Jack 'n Jill Chippy Garlic & Vinegar (110g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
It also has a tangy flavor in a light and crunchy fish-shaped cracker. The zesty vinegar taste mixes well with the savory fish flavor, making it really tasty. It is a classic Filipino snack with a super crispy texture, perfect to enjoy on its own or ...
La-La Fish Crackers Salt and Vinegar (100g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
A Filipino snack made from fried wheat noodles shaped into short, crunchy sticks. The texture is super crispy and airy, giving a light crackle with every bite. It is coated in a tangy vinegar seasoning, it has a bold, sour flavor that balances perfec...
Sir Norman's Baker Shingaling Vinegar Flavor (180g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
The mango tamarind ball has a sweet and tangy mix of flavors that balance each other out so well. The chewy texture makes it fun to eat, with the mango giving a fruity sweetness and the tamarind adding a little sour kick.
Philippine Brand Mango Tamarind Ball (100g)

Spicy Kicks 🌶

Not everything here is super hot, but they all bring a little heat. Perfect for when you’re feeling brave or just want something exciting.

 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
This one has a rich seafood flavor with a spicy kick that slowly builds as you eat. The crackers are light, crunchy, and shaped like thin fries, which makes them really fun to snack on. It's a bold yet simple treat that combines prawn taste with just...
Oishi Prawn Cracker Spicy Flavor (90g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
Another vegetarian chicharon-style snack that's super crunchy (another favorite snack of mine). It has a sour and spicy flavor and its texture is crisp and light, giving you that satisfying chicharon crunch without the meat.
Oishi Marty's Cracklin' (90g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
A super crunchy snack with a garlic and spicy flavor. The corn kernels are hard and crispy, giving a loud crunch in every bite. Boy bawang is a flavorful snack that's both savory and addicting if you love garlic and spice together.
Boy Bawang Cornick Hot Garlic Flavor (90g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
Tastes like your usual cheesy corn puffs but with an extra hot twist. You get the cheesy flavor first, then the spice comes in and makes your mouth tingle. The puffs are light, crunchy, and fun to eat, mixing comfort and heat in every bite.
Leslie Cheezy Corn Crunch Red Hot (150g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
This one tastes like that classic street food mix of vinegar and chili. The crunch is loud and brittle, almost like real chicharon but made vegetarian. Each bite hits you with a sharp sour kick followed by a gentle heat (but for me, it's not really t...
Jack 'n Jill Mang Juan Chicharon Suka't Sili (90g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
It has a smoky barbecue taste with a hint of sweetness and a steady kick of spice. The chips are ridged and thicker than regular ones, so they have a stronger crunch. The mix of sweet, smoky, and spicy makes it a well-balanced and flavorful snack.
Jack 'n Jill V-Cut Potato Chips Spicy Barbecue (60g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
This one comes with a crunchy shell and a heat that lingers as you snack. The peanuts inside keep their nutty crunch, but the flavor leans all on the heat. If garlic or barbecue flavors don't excite you and you would rather have something hot, this o...
Nagaraya Cracker Nuts (Hot & Spicy) 5.64 oz

Biscuit Corner 🍪

Soft, simple, and always comforting. Great with coffee or all by themselves.

 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
Pilipit literally means ‘twisted’ and it's like a donut with a crunchy twist. The outside is crisp and covered in sugar that makes every bite sweet. It's not soft like a regular donut, but more on the firm and crunchy side.
Sir Norman Baker Pilipit (190g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
Otap is a flaky, oval-shaped puff pastry that is crispy and covered in sugar. When you bite into it, it shatters into sweet, buttery layers that can get a little messy. It is light, crunchy, and a little sticky from the sugar, the kind of snack you'l...
Shamrock Otap (Puffed Biscuits) 200g
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
Paciencia or sponge drop cookies, are made from whipped egg whites, flour, and sugar, which gives them that super light, airy texture that melts in your mouth, kind of like a crispy marshmallow. The name ‘Paciencia’ means patience in Spanish, which f...
Laura's Pasencia (Wheat Drop Cookies) 250g
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
A soft, sweet, and super fluffy bread with ube or purple yam. Inside, it has a sweet and creamy purple yam filling, and on top, there's buttery cream and a little sprinkle of cheese. It's the kind of snack that goes amazingly with a cup of coffee or ...
Muhlach Ensaymada Ube (Purple Yam) Flavor
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
A small, sweet pastry with a rich mung bean filling. The outside is flaky while the inside is soft and sweet, perfect for anyone who loves a classic Filipino snack. You just heat it up in a toaster or microwave for a few minutes and enjoy it warm, li...
Eng Bee Tin Hopia Munggo Frozen (150g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
This one is a sweet mix of ube and pastillas. The ube gives it that creamy, purple yam flavor, while the pastillas adds that milky sweetness. Every bite is soft, sweet, and satisfying, making it a perfect snack or dessert.
Eng Bee Tin Hopia Ube Pastillas (5.3 oz)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
It starts with a light crunch, then the chocolate hits: sweet, creamy, and kind of milky. It's not bold like dark chocolate, more like cocoa powder mixed with sugar and cream. A little bite of Stik-O is never enough. You'll say “just one” then change...
Stik-O Wafer Stick (380g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
These are little biscuit covered in smooth chocolate. The outside has that sweet, chocolatey layer, while the inside is light, crisp, and crunchy. It's the kind of snack where you pop one in your mouth, then another, and suddenly half the pack is gon...
Fibisco Choco Crunchies Chocolate Covered Biscuits (200g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
Choco Knots are sweet chocolate over crispy pretzels. The taste is smooth, crunchy, and a little salty. Great for a quick treat.
Jack 'n Jill Choco Knots (29g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
These are crunchy little square shells with creamy chocolate filling inside, like cereal but way more indulgent. The outside is crisp and a bit toasty, while the inside has that smooth, sweet chocolate that oozes just a bit when you bite in. It's add...
Oishi Pillows Chocolate Filled Crackers (150g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
If chocolate pillows aren't your thing, there's also the ube version. Ube has this unique flavor that is sweet and kind of creamy, almost like a mix of vanilla and sweet potato. The crunchy shell makes way for a smooth, purple ube filling inside. It'...
Oishi Pillows Ube Filled Crackers (150g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
Two crumbly biscuits with a smooth chocolate filling in between. Simple, sweet, and super satisfying. The biscuits are a little buttery and soft, and the chocolate has that creamy, almost fudge-like taste. I like how it's not too sweet, so you can ea...
Rebisco Hansel Choco Sandwich (10 pack)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
This one's a small chocolate cake with a gooey chocolate center that oozes out when you bite into it. The cake is soft and fluffy, while the filling is like a melted chocolate syrup. If you are not into very sweet snacks, it might feel a bit too much...
Jack 'n Jill Quake Choco Burst (10 pack)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
These are crunchy sandwich cookies with a creamy peanut butter filling in the middle. The cookies themselves are slightly sweet, and the peanut butter adds that nutty, salty-sweet taste that balances everything out. They're simple, tasty, and perfect...
Jack 'n Jill Presto Creams Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies (10 Packs, 300g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
Thin, square crackers that are super light and crunchy. They have a mild, slightly salty taste that makes them simple but comforting. I like them plain, but they're also perfect with coffee, cheese, or even just a little peanut butter.
M.Y. San SkyFlakes Crackers (25g, 10 pcs)

Instant Noodles & Porridge 🍜

The ultimate Filipino comfort food in a pack. Quick to cook, fun to slurp, and always there when hunger hits, whether it's breakfast, midnight, or a rainy day.

 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
The kalamansi flavor is tangy and citrusy, kind of like a squeeze of lime (kalamansi) that makes the noodles taste fresh and zesty. This one's perfect if you want something flavorful but not too spicy
Lucky Me! Pancit Canton Kalamansi (Pack of 6)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
My favorite! This one's the perfect balance of kalamansi and just the right amount of chili heat. It is sour, spicy, and savory all at once. I could eat this anytime.
Lucky Me! Pancit Canton Chilimansi (Pack of 6)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
This one's for spice lovers. It skips the citrus and goes straight for that bold, savory chili flavor that leaves your mouth warm after every bite. But for me, it's not really that spicy spicy.
Lucky Me! Pancit Canton Hot Chili (Pack of 6)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
Slurping this is pure comfort in a bowl. The noodles are soft, soaking up the savory beef broth. The beef flavor hits right away, meaty and slightly sweet with a hint of garlic and spices. This is perfect for lazy nights or when you just need somethi...
Lucky Me! Instant Mami Beef na Beef (55g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
If you don't like beef, here's the chicken-flavored version. The broth is savory and lightly seasoned, with a hint of garlic and herbs that makes the chicken taste homey. It is not too salty and easy to enjoy anytime you want something simple, tasty,...
Lucky Me! Instant Noodle Soup Chicken na Chicken (55g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
If you like sweet breakfasts, this is for you. The chocolate is rich and creamy and coats every grain of rice. It is thick and warm, perfect for a cozy morning. You can eat it as is or add a little milk to make it creamier. Sweet, chocolatey, and com...
Nora Chocolate Champorado (90g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
An instant Filipino rice porridge that you can prepare by simply adding hot water to the instant mix. The rice is soft and cooked in a savory chicken broth that tastes gentle and homey. You can taste a hint of ginger that makes it cozy and soothing. ...
Nora Chicken Arroz Caldo (48g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
An instant macaroni chicken soup that offers a creamy and authentic Asian taste with macaroni, vegetables, and chicken flavor. Not too salty, easy to enjoy any time you want something simple, creamy, and satisfying. Suitable for cold weather or quick...
Nora Creamy Chicken Sopas (2 oz)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
Replicating the flavor of the Filipino noodle dish that originated in La Paz, Iloilo, this noodle soup is warm and flavorful. Preparation only requires hot water. The soup has a salty, meaty taste, with a hint of garlic. The thin noodles are soft. Sm...
Lucky Me! Instant Noodles La Paz Batchoy (70g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
It features thin and transparent noodles in a flavorful chicken broth. The "sotanghon" noodles are made from starch, making them soft and easy to eat. The soup has a savory chicken taste with small pieces of chives.
Lucky Me! Chicken Sotanghon Instant Noodle Soup (28g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
If you're craving beef, these bulalo-flavored noodles are perfect. The soup has a rich beef flavor and comes with chewy noodles. The broth contains vegetables and beef flavoring, making it a filling meal. It is a good quick meal, especially on a cold...
Lucky Me! Instant Noodles Bulalo (70g)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
This instant meal has the flavor of the Filipino lomi. The soup has thick, chewy egg noodles in a sauce that tastes like chicken and seafood. You just need to boil water, cook the noodles, and add the seasoning. As the soup cooks, it becomes thick an...
Lucky Me! Instant Lomi in Pouch (65g)

Drinks & Refreshments 🥤

You'll need these after all that snacking. From juice to chocolate milk, these are childhood faves.

 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
It's a quick, ready-to-drink version of the popular chocolate malt beverage. It has the classic, sweet milo flavor of chocolate and malt. The drink is creamy and smooth and comes in a small cardboard box with a straw. This makes it easy to pack in a ...
Milo Ready To Drink Energy Drink in Box (250 ml)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
This one's super refreshing and easy to drink. It blends the taste of green tea with the sweet and crisp flavor of apples. Comes in a handy bottle so you can take it anywhere. It's a popular go-to for cooling off, especially on a hot day. Honestly, i...
C2 Apple Green Tea (500 ml)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
Refreshing and lightly sweet, this apple green tea is perfect for quenching your thirst. The apple flavor is fruity but not overpowering, blending nicely with the subtle bitterness of green tea. Perfect if you just want a tasty drink without it being...
C2 Lemon Green Tea (500 ml)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
A sweet and thick drink made from real mangoes. It tastes like ripe, sweet Filipino mangoes with just the right balance of sweetness. It is perfect to enjoy chilled anytime you want something refreshing and fruity.
Gina Big Mango Nectar Juice (340 ml)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
Sarsi root beer has a sweet flavor with a hint of herbs. It has a deep color and a strong, sweet taste. It's a classic soda in the Philippines and perfect to enjoy with snacks or just when you want something refreshing and different from the usual so...
Sarsi Root Beer in Can (330 ml)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
A sweet and fruity juice drink. It has the refreshing and tangy taste of oranges, making it a popular drink for all ages (especially kids). Because it is ready-to-drink, it is easy to put in a lunch bag or drink for a quick snack.
Zest-O Big Orange Juice Drink (250 ml)
 
Hannah Azaña profile picture
This one's a sweet, creamy, and chocolatey, the kind of drink. The milk and the chocolate flavor hit just right, especially when it is cold. It even has added vitamins and minerals like vitamins A, D, B-complex and calcium to support growth in kids. ...
Nestle Chuckie Chocolate Milk Drink (6 x 250 ml)