Davao has filled the center-stage of the nation’s attention not only because of the fact that this is the hometown of the country’s elected President at present but more so because of the different industries it tops itself with- starting in economy-related aspects up to a mouthwatering list of foods no tourist must ever miss!
To serve as your guide on finding the foods which would complete your visit in this city, here is a list specially made to cater your cravings… known and even those of which that are unknown to you yet.

Pakfry
Do you want that sour kick yet a crunch at the same time? Pakfry then should be the first dish you should look for as soon as your first step lands in this city.
Pakfry is basically a tuna tail which undergoes two processes- first, of course, is through the paksiw-making processing: with vinegar and spices. Next cooking step is through deep-frying.
Our Panlasang Pinoy Rating:
“Pak na pak- it’s like savoring the best part of two dishes in one bite!”

Kinilaw na Tuna
If you’re into seafood dish then maybe you should try this Kinilaw version of Davaoenos.
Basically, this Kinilaw Na Tuna is made from a freshly caught tuna or swordfish which they call as “malasugi” marinated both in citrus juices and vinegar, spiced as expected and seasoned in their special secret way.
Our Panlasang Pinoy Rating:
“See what the sea has to offer.”
Kalderobo
Are you that someone who isn’t that used to in making up your own mind when it comes to what it is that you wanted to eat? Well, worry no more, this another 2-in-1 dish got your back-Kalderobo, ladies and gentlemen!
Kalderobo, as its name transparently suggests, is a complementing combination of Beef Kaldereta (Caldereta) and Adobo.
A beef stew with the most unforgettable twist ever! Can’t imagine how good it tastes like? Come, visit Davao and over-satisfy your assumptions by having a taste of it!
Our Panlasang Pinoy Rating:
“Indeed, food can be an avenue of reflecting the culture that Davao has. Interesting and certainly, something that you always would look for to have a taste in the future time!”
Sinuglaw
Remember the Kinilaw na Tuna above which we have on this same list? Again, another 2-in-1 dish from Davao City, Kinilaw na Tuna combined to perfection with Sinugba- a grilled marinated pork seasoned and processed with almost the same style as how the Kinilaw na Tuna is prepared.
Our Panlasang Pinoy Rating:
“Have we just said combined to perfection? How could we adjust it so that the term’s meaning would be doubled up?”
Durian Cheesecake
Since durian is obviously a pride of this place, one of the delicacies that are made from it which you should definitely give a try is their Durian Cheesecake!
There are only a few places where you can purchase this from, one which is on the top rank could be found in a restaurant located at Marfori Heights.
Our Panlasang Pinoy Rating:
“Could replace the top reason one ever has as for why Durian is worth both the rave and the -crave-!”
Inato
No, I’m not trying to curse you. Inato is a dish that is basically defined as a grilled chicken with the signature of Davao- with meat chosen, prepared, and marinated in the way only a few of its locals are aware of.
“Ina To” means, “atin ‘to”.
Our Panlasang Pinoy Rating:
“When they used –atin ‘to’ to refer to this dish, that already speaks volume how delicious this grilled meat tastes like.”
Binignit
Looking for something refreshing after an exhausting tour around the city? Well, look around no more! Binignit has your back- a combination of several fruits combined within coconut milk!
Our Panlasang Pinoy Rating:
“The perfect gastronomic treat to end a very tiring day.”
Other Must-Try Desserts/Snacks:
Durian Ice Cream
Durian Shake
Ginanggang
Durian Pie
Fresh Pomelo and Durian
Other Must-Try Meals:
Law-Uy
Lato
Pasangan
Sinugbang Liempo
Satti
References:
Food, A. (2019). Authentic Davao Food. [online] Davaocitybybattad.blogspot.com. Available at: http://davaocitybybattad.blogspot.com/2011/07/authentic-davao-food.html [Accessed 10 Feb. 2019].
Jacosalem, L. (2019). 7 Best Local Eats and Treats to Try in Davao City – Filipino Homes Official Blog. [online] Filipino Homes Official Blog. Available at: https://filipinohomes.com/blog/davao-city-food/ [Accessed 10 Feb. 2019].
Escape Manila. (2019). 10 Must-Try Food in Davao City (And Where to Find Them) – Escape Manila. [online] Available at: https://escapemanila.com/2016/07/10-must-try-food-in-davao-city.html [Accessed 10 Feb. 2019].