Best Filipino restaurants in Sydney for authentic Filipino food

Sydney, is the cosmopolitan melting pot, where food enthusiasts unite to savour the flavours of the world. And guess what? Amidst this gastronomic galaxy, there’s one cuisine that’s got everyone talking – Filipino food! What makes it special, you ask? With its Spanish, Chinese, and American influences, Filipino food is a blend of savoury awesomeness that will have you licking your fingers!

We’ve tracked down the spots where tradition and innovation do a tasty tango – with a list of eateries, big and small, that you simply cannot miss. Hold onto your foodie hats as we guide you through the cuisine of the Philippines. 

Filipino cuisine in a nutshell

Rooted in tradition, Filipino food is a reflection of the history that shaped the Philippines through the centuries. The abundance of fresh tropical ingredients combined with various cooking techniques means that you’re in vibrant flavours that will make your taste buds dance! Sweet, spicy and tangy, Filipino food has something for everyone.

What makes a Filipino restaurant authentic?

A true blue Filipino dining experience embodies the spirit of Filipino hospitality and culture. You want to look for a place that showcases traditional recipes prepared with native ingredients that capture the taste of home – and where the hosts create a welcome feel and a sense of community.

Top Filipino restaurants in Sydney

Let’s explore some of the best hubs for authentic Filipino food in the city.

Sydney Cebu Lechon

Nestled along the vibrant Enmore Road in Newtown, Sydney Cebu Lechon exudes a native Filipino vibe that instantly transports diners to the captivating island region of Cebu. This casual restaurant serves up a slim yet sensational menu inspired by the culinary heritage of its creators, who hail from the very heart of Cebu.

The star of the show is none other than their house specialty – the legendary Cebu lechon. Succulent and crackling with flavour, this charcoal-roasted pork belly will excite your taste buds.

Another must-try is the braised soy chicken, also known as humba. Picture this: a tender and slow-cooked bird infused with a delightful medley of vinegar, soy sauce, and a symphony of other spices. The result is an explosion of flavours that dance on your palate, leaving you craving for more.

As you step into Sydney Cebu Lechon, you’ll be greeted by the warm and friendly ambience that mirrors the hospitality of the Philippines. The rustic charm of the restaurant, adorned with touches of Filipino culture, creates an immersive dining experience that celebrates the heart and soul of Cebu.

Location: 4 Kerry Roadd, Blacktown NSW 2148, Australia

Opening hours:

• Thurs: 4:30 pm – 8:00 pm
• Fri: 4:30 pm – 8:30 pm
• Sat: 4:30 pm – 8:30 pm
• Sun: 4:30 pm – 8:00 pm

Sizzling Fillo

Situated in the vibrant suburb of Lidcombe, Sizzling Fillo is a must-visit for lovers of sizzling dishes such as sisig, Inihaw na Liempo, and Bicol Express.

The highlight of your meal will be the boodle fight – an art form of kamayan, where eating with your hands becomes a delightfully communal and flavourful affair. Say goodbye to cutlery and dig in! The feast will be set up on a communal table comprising delectable Filipino dishes ranging from seafood and veggies to the finest meats, all bursting with flavour.

So gather your loved ones and drop in here for a unique and unforgettable experience.

Location: 36 Railway Street, Lidcombe NSW 2141, Australia

Opening hours:

• Wed to Fri: 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm
• Sat: 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm, 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm
• Sun: 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm, 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm

Mama Lor Filipino Restaurant

Discover the culinary gem that is Mama Lor Filipino Restaurant, situated along the vibrant Rooty Hill Road North. This eatery has garnered fame for its mouthwatering creations with two standout dishes that are guaranteed to leave you craving for more!

First up is the Pork BBQ Stick – a true masterpiece that begins with succulent pork, marinated to perfection and then topped with their secret sauce. Each bite is a burst of savoury delight. Another must-have is the Adobong Baby Squid – an adobo-style preparation infused with a special sauce and vibrant red and green peppers.

Mama Lor Filipino Restaurant, with its cosy and inviting ambience, is a haven for foodies seeking an authentic Filipino dining experience.

Location: Shop 5/39-45 Rooty Hill Road N, Rooty Hill NSW 2766, Australia

Opening hours: Daily, 10:00 am to 8:30 pm

Panlasang Pinoy

A hidden gem, Panlasang Pinoy may appear to be a humble grocery store as you step in, but it quickly transforms into a vibrant dining space as you explore further. This restaurant-grocer combo has a lot up its sleeve, and you’re in for a delightful surprise!

Their menu is a true feast for the senses, boasting an impressive array of Filipino favourites that change regularly to keep things exciting. From the beloved crispy pata – a melt-in-your-mouth slow-cooked and deep-fried pork knuckle – to the hearty kare-kare, a delightful medley of oxtail, eggplant, and beans drenched in peanut gravy, every dish is a celebration of Filipino culinary traditions.

But that’s not all – brace yourself for the BBQ extravaganza that has earned Panlasang Pinoy a cult following. From sticky pork skewers to lemongrass and tomato-stuffed squid, they’ve got it all. Feeling adventurous? They’ve got unique offerings like tender chicken feet and succulent pork intestines, grilled and seasoned to perfection.

So, if you’re up for a taste adventure that will take you straight to the heart of Filipino cuisine, this is the place to be.

Location: 26 Regent Street, Kogarah NSW 2217, Australia

Opening hours:

• Sun, Mon, Tues, Thurs: 9 am to 8:30 pm
• Wed, Fri, Sat: 9 am to 9 pm

Lazza

Lazza’s Bilao feast is the star of the show – a grand platter of eight mouthwatering entrees meant to be savoured and shared with friends. Expect a delightful mix of pork sisig, mussels, shrimp, grilled meats and veggies that will take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey.

Dive into the heavenly Bicol Express – a rich and aromatic stew brimming with the goodness of coconut, shrimp paste, and tender pork. This Bicol speciality, along with several other authentic dishes served here, makes Lazza a great option for anyone looking to try real Filipino food.

Location: 246 Marrickville Road, Marrickville NSW 2204, Australia

Opening hours:

• Mon and Tues: Closed
• Wed and Thurs: 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm
• Fri: 5:00 pm to 9:30 pm
• Sat: 11:00 am to 2:30 pm, 5:00 pm to 9:30 pm
• Sun: 11:00 am to 2:30 pm, 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm

Top dishes to try at Filipino restaurants

While you’re exploring the Filipino food scene in Sydney, keep this culinary bucket list handy.

Adobo

New to Filipino food? Start with Adobo, the unofficial national dish of the Philippines. This chicken or pork stew is flavoured with vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and various spices. The meat is simmered in these ingredients until tender, creating a perfect balance of tangy and spicy. Honestly, it’s a warm hug in a bowl!

Sinigang

A beloved Filipino soup, Sinigang features a tamarind-based broth filled with an assortment of vegetables and meat or seafood. The sourness of the tamarind is balanced with a medley of ingredients, resulting in a hearty and flavourful dish you’re sure to enjoy.

Lechon

A centrepiece at any Filipino celebration, Lechon is a whole roasted pig with perfectly crispy skin and succulent meat. The process of roasting the pig over an open flame creates a distinct and irresistible flavour that captures the essence of Filipino fiestas.

Halo-Halo

Literally translated as “mix-mix,” Halo-Halo is a delicious Filipino dessert that’s perfect for beating the summer heat. This colourful concoction includes shaved ice, sweetened fruits, jellies, and a scoop of ice cream, creating a refreshing and satisfying treat.

Filipino street food in Sydney

Street food is an integral part of Filipino culture, and lucky for you, Sydney is dotted with options that bring this bustling street food culture to life! So, when you’re out and about, look for these signature favourites:

Isaw

A popular street snack for foodies who love to experiment, Isaw consists of chicken or pork intestines skewered on sticks and grilled to perfection. Smokey and tasty, Isaw is a favourite among locals and a must-try for adventurous travellers. You can find this dish at Pinoy Grill N Chill along Oxford Road.

Balut

Another one for adventurous eaters, balut is a boiled duck embryo that may raise eyebrows. For those willing to try, the soft and savoury flavours of balut are surprisingly delightful.

Surely, it is a rare delicacy to come by in Sydney. But we’ve found just the place to try it out – Diem Hen, a charming eatery nestled in Canley Heights, just next door to Cabramatta.

Kwek-Kwek

Kwek-Kwek is a popular street food made from quail eggs dipped in orange-coloured batter and deep-fried. The crispy texture and flavorful taste make it an addictive snack.

You can find this at Smoky Cravings Lakemba. With every bite, you’ll experience a burst of flavours that perfectly complements the softness of the quail eggs, creating a treat that is hard to resist.

Before you go…

You know, for a lot of Filipinos living in Sydney, that connection to their home country remains super strong. It’s like this homesickness hits, and guess what? The first thing they reach for to ease that longing is food from back home.

But hey, it’s not just about satisfying those cravings. It’s also really important to make sure your family knows you’re thinking of them too. And besides packing up those Balikbayan boxes with all the good stuff, there’s another way to show your support for your family – send money to Philippines.

That’s where Instarem steps in.

They make it crazy easy to send money to the Philippines from places like Australia, Singapore, the United States, Hong Kong, and more! And guess what’s super cool? You can send as much money as you want, no need to worry about those annoying box limits.

Instarem keeps their fees low and their exchange rates awesome, so it’s like the ultimate choice for sending some love (and cash) back to your folks.

Try Instarem for your next transfer.

Download the app or sign up here. 

*Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. All details are accurate at the time of publishing. Instarem has no affiliation or relationship with products or vendors mentioned.