Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in City of Calamba, Laguna, Philippines

1. Kesong Puti de Calamba

Fresh white cheese made from carabao's milk, served with steamed rice and ripe mangoes. A traditional dish unique to Calamba.

Authenticity: Made using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
Local Ingredients: Uses locally sourced carabao milk, a staple in Calamba agriculture.
Flavor Profile: Combines the tangy taste of cheese with the sweetness of ripe mangoes.

A local sausage made from ground pork mixed with garlic, pepper, and vinegar. Unique in its tangy flavor.

Tangy Flavor: Distinctive taste due to the added vinegar.
Local Ingredients: Uses locally sourced pork and spices.
Tradition: A beloved dish that has been a staple in Calamba for generations.

Grilled tilapia fish served with soy sauce and calamansi. Fresh and flavorful.

Freshness: Fish is sourced from the nearby Laguna de Bay.
Flavor Profile: Combines the natural taste of tilapia with the tangy calamansi and salty soy sauce.
Tradition: A popular dish enjoyed by locals for generations.

Crunchy fried flower buds of the talbos ng kamote (sweet potato leaves). A unique and tasty snack.

Local Ingredients: Made from locally grown sweet potatoes.
Crispiness: Has a crunchy texture that makes it an enjoyable snack.
Uniqueness: Not commonly found in other areas, making it a must-try in Calamba.

Steamed rice cake made from glutinous rice and coconut milk. A sweet treat enjoyed by many.

Sweetness: Sweet taste comes from the addition of sugar and coconut milk.
Tradition: A traditional dish that has been a staple in Calamba for generations.
Soft Texture: Has a soft and sticky texture that melts in your mouth.

Crispy pork rinds seasoned with garlic and vinegar. A popular snack.

Crispiness: Has a satisfying crunch that makes it an enjoyable snack.
Local Ingredients: Made from locally sourced pork.
Flavor Profile: Combines the saltiness of pork rinds with the tangy taste of garlic and vinegar.

A refreshing dessert made from shaved ice, beans, fruits, and ube (purple yam) ice cream. Perfect for hot weather.

Refreshing: Ideal for cooling down during the hot Calamba weather.
Local Ingredients: Includes locally sourced ube (purple yam) and other fruits.
Diverse Flavors: Combines various flavors and textures, making it a delightful dessert.

Fried or steamed spring rolls filled with vegetables and ground meat. A classic Filipino dish.

Versatility: Can be fried or steamed, catering to various preferences.
Local Ingredients: Uses locally sourced vegetables and meats.
Flavor Profile: Combines the flavors of the filling with the sweet and sour sauce.

Fish cooked in ginger, garlic, onions, and tomatoes. Simple yet flavorful.

Simplicity: Prepared using basic ingredients, resulting in a simple yet delicious dish.
Flavor Profile: Features the strong flavors of ginger, garlic, onions, and tomatoes.
Healthiness: A healthier option compared to some other dishes due to its fish content.

Sticky rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves. A traditional Filipino dessert.

Sour soup made with tamarind broth, vegetables, and fish. A popular Filipino dish.

Refreshing: Ideal for cooling down during the hot Calamba weather.
Flavor Profile: Features a sour taste due to the tamarind broth.
Healthiness: A healthier option compared to some other dishes due to its fish and vegetable content.

Chicken or pork cooked in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves. A classic Filipino dish.

Flavor Profile: Features the strong flavors of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves.
Tradition: A traditional dish that has been a staple in Filipino cuisine for centuries.
Versatility: Can be made with chicken or pork, catering to various dietary preferences.

Thin rice noodles stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and soy sauce. A popular Filipino dish.

Versatility: Can be customized with various types of meat and vegetables.
Flavor Profile: Features the strong flavors of soy sauce, garlic, and onions.
Speedy Preparation: Can be prepared quickly, making it ideal for a quick meal.

Thin rice noodles served dry and mixed with vegetables and meat. A unique Filipino dish.

Uniqueness: Not commonly found in other areas, making it a must-try in Calamba.
Flavor Profile: Combines the flavors of the noodles, vegetables, and meat.
Dry Texture: Has a unique dry texture that sets it apart from other noodle dishes.

Grilled squid served with soy sauce and calamansi. A simple yet flavorful dish.

Freshness: Squid is sourced fresh from the nearby Laguna de Bay.
Flavor Profile: Combines the natural taste of squid with the salty soy sauce and tangy calamansi.
Tradition: A beloved dish enjoyed by locals for generations.