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A Guide to the 3 Best Seafood Restaurants in Manila
July 23, 2024
Manila is a paradise for seafood enthusiasts. One reason why seafood is so beloved is because of its incredible variety of choices, from succulent shrimp and tender calamari to rich buttery lobster and the delicate flavors of fresh fish. With this wide selection, families or groups of friends can enjoy quality time while savoring the fresh and high-quality catch offered in specialty restaurants.
This blog compiles three must-visit seafood restaurants in Manila that will satisfy your cravings.
The Red Crab Alimango House is an excellent choice for casual dining, perfect for friends and families seeking a memorable seafood feast. The restaurant has a straightforward yet charming ambiance, ideal for a relaxed dining experience.
It is renowned for its impressive quality of seafood. Among the standout dishes is the baked garlic butter scallops. These scallops are perfectly cooked and covered in rich, creamy cheese and melted butter.
The star of the menu is their crab, which is packed with succulent meat and served with a Szechuan sauce expertly adjusted to suit local tastes. The sauce provides a sweet base with a surprisingly spicy kick.
The Shrimp Bucket
The Shrimp Bucket offers a diverse menu for seafood lovers who want to experience bold flavors. The main attraction is its "Bag by the Pound" concept, where seafood is served in a bag and priced per 100 grams. Customers can choose from six different sauces to match their seafood.
For the best experience, it is recommended to empty the contents of the bag onto a plate and order cups of rice. Shaking the rice inside the bag allows it to absorb the rich flavors of the sauces.
Two of their best-selling dishes are Mussels with Mardi Gras sauce and Shrimp with Salty Eggsperience sauce. The Mussels with Mardi Gras sauce are a delightful innovation from the usual baked mussels topped with garlic butter or cheese. Instead, they are paired with crunchy, spicy Spanish chorizo. The Shrimps with Salty Eggsperience sauce features large prawns cooked with "itlog na maalat," or salted egg.
Ichiba Japanese Market
Inspired by renowned Japanese markets like Tsukiji, Kuromon, Kyushu, and Hokkaido, Ichiba Japanese Market offers a unique and immersive experience. Central to its appeal is the live aquarium display, which can sustain up to 600 kg of live seafood.
One of the market's highlights is the "Fishing and Eating Adventure." Guests can buy bait, rent a fishing rod, and attempt to catch fish within a 30-minute time limit. Successful anglers can have their catch cooked to their preference, creating an interactive and engaging dining experience.
Ichiba offers a diverse selection of seafood, including lobsters, nylon shells, elephant shells, white shells, seabass, stonefish, and alimasag. There are many vegetable side dishes available at their station. You can ask the chefs for recommendations.
Ichiba Japanese Market provides a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere, allowing guests to enjoy the flavors of Japan while engaging in fun and interactive activities.
Final Thoughts
Manila's vibrant seafood scene is a true haven for those who appreciate the ocean's bounty. From the casual charm of The Red Crab Alimango House with its irresistible garlic butter scallops and succulent crabs to the bold and inventive offerings at The Shrimp Bucket and the interactive, market-style experience at Ichiba Japanese Market, there's something to tantalize every seafood lover's palate.
So, if you're a resident or a visitor exploring the culinary delights of Manila, add these top seafood restaurants to your must-visit list. Indulge in the rich, diverse flavors of the sea and discover why Manila is a paradise for seafood enthusiasts. Happy dining!