Where to try Filipino cuisine in Sharjah?

Stepping into Sharjah to explore Filipino cuisine is like discovering a vibrant, flavorful piece of the Philippines itself, offering a delightful blend of sweet, sour, salty, and savory tastes in every dish.

The Heart of Filipino Cuisine: A Symphony of Flavors

Filipino cuisine is a magnificent tapestry woven from various cultural influences, including Malay, Spanish, Chinese, and American, creating a unique and diverse gastronomic experience. At its core, Filipino food is characterized by a harmonious balance of flavors, often featuring a blend of savory, sour, and sometimes sweet notes in a single dish. Staples include rice, fish, and a variety of meats, prepared through methods like stewing, grilling, and frying. Dishes like Adobo (meat braised in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and peppercorns) and Sinigang (a sour and savory tamarind-based soup) are iconic, embodying the Filipino love for rich and comforting flavors. The cuisine is profoundly communal, with meals often serving as a focal point for family gatherings and celebrations, reflecting the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people.

The Filipino Community in Sharjah

Sharjah is home to a significant and vibrant Filipino expatriate community, which has naturally led to a thriving scene for authentic Filipino restaurants and eateries. This strong community presence ensures that the Filipino food available in Sharjah is not merely adapted for international palates, but often remains true to its roots, offering genuine flavors and traditional preparations. From casual turo-turo (point-point) eateries where you choose from a selection of pre-cooked dishes, to more formal dining establishments, the range of options reflects the diverse tastes and preferences within the community. This density of Filipino residents makes Sharjah an excellent destination for those eager to explore the nuances of this fascinating cuisine.

Where to Find Authentic Filipino Food in Sharjah

To truly experience authentic Filipino cuisine in Sharjah, we recommend focusing on areas with a high concentration of Filipino residents and businesses. Neighborhoods like Al Nahda and Rolla are particularly rich in Filipino eateries, ranging from small, unassuming canteens to larger, more established restaurants. You might also find good options around Al Majaz and other central areas. Look for places that clearly advertise “Filipino Cuisine” or display Philippine flags or cultural motifs. Online food delivery platforms and community forums can also be incredibly useful resources for discovering highly-rated and authentic spots. Don’t be shy to ask for recommendations from Filipino residents, as they often know the best places for specific regional dishes or home-style cooking.

Top Filipino Restaurants to Explore in Sharjah

Sharjah offers a commendable selection of Filipino restaurants that cater to various preferences.

• Pinoy Chef Restaurant in Al Nahda is a popular and beloved spot among the Filipino community, known for its homely vibe and offering a wide selection of traditional Filipino dishes, including breakfast options and baked goods. They truly capture the essence of Filipino home cooking.
• Inasal at Sahara Centre is a great option for those seeking authentic Chicken Inasal, a flavorful grilled chicken dish originating from Bacolod City. Their focus on this specialty ensures a juicy and perfectly grilled experience.
• Filipino Grill Restaurant, with branches in areas like Rolla and Al Bu Daniq, is known for its wide menu covering many Filipino favorites, from Pansit Bihon to various Silog meals (rice, egg, and a protein combo). They often feature grilled items prominently.
• For a broader menu that encompasses a variety of Filipino dishes, Menaa Marseille Filipino Restaurant on Al Wahda Road or in Al Majaz is often recommended. They offer traditional Filipino flavors, seafood, and snacks.
• ICook in Al Nahda is another top-ranking Filipino restaurant, offering a comprehensive menu from breakfast staples like Tocilog to hearty main courses like Sisig and various noodle dishes.

These restaurants provide a fantastic starting point for your culinary journey into Filipino flavors.

Must-Try Filipino Dishes

When you venture into Filipino cuisine in Sharjah, there are several iconic dishes that you simply must try to get a full appreciation of its flavors:

• Adobo: As mentioned, a quintessential Filipino dish, available with chicken, pork, or both, known for its savory and tangy profile.
• Sinigang: A sour soup, often made with tamarind, featuring various meats (pork, beef, shrimp, fish) and vegetables. It’s incredibly refreshing.
• Kare-Kare: A rich and savory peanut stew, typically made with oxtail, tripe, and vegetables, served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) on the side.
• Lechon Kawali: Crispy deep-fried pork belly, renowned for its crunchy skin and tender meat.
• Pancit Canton/Bihon: Stir-fried noodle dishes, with Pancit Canton being egg noodles and Pancit Bihon being rice vermicelli, mixed with vegetables and meat/shrimp.
• Lumpia: Filipino spring rolls, available in savory (meat or vegetable-filled) or sweet (banana-filled, like turon) varieties.
• Sisig: A sizzling dish made from chopped pork, onions, chili, and seasoned with calamansi and soy sauce.

For dessert, don’t miss Halo-Halo, a colorful concoction of shaved ice, sweet beans, fruits, jellies, and ice cream.

Approximate Pricing for Filipino Cuisine

While specific prices cannot be given, Filipino restaurants in Sharjah generally offer very affordable dining options, providing excellent value for money. Casual eateries and turo-turo style restaurants are particularly budget-friendly, making them popular for daily meals. Even more established restaurants typically offer generous portions at reasonable prices. The cost will vary depending on the dish (e.g., seafood dishes might be slightly more expensive than chicken or vegetable options) and the restaurant’s overall ambiance. Many diners find that they can enjoy a full, satisfying meal without a hefty bill. Always check the menu for current pricing before you order to ensure it aligns with your budget.

The Communal Dining Culture

Filipino dining is inherently communal, and this spirit is strongly reflected in the restaurants in Sharjah. Many establishments offer family-style portions, encouraging sharing among diners. The concept of Boodle Fight – where food is served on banana leaves and eaten with bare hands – is a popular and fun way to experience a traditional Filipino meal, though it’s typically offered for groups and might require advance booking. Even without a formal boodle fight, the emphasis is on sharing dishes, allowing everyone to sample a wide array of flavors. This communal aspect makes Filipino restaurants a great choice for group outings and family gatherings, fostering connection over delicious food.

The Influence of Filipino Bakeries

Beyond main courses, Filipino bakeries in Sharjah play a vital role in providing authentic Filipino snacks, breads, and desserts. Places like Pinoy Chef Restaurant, as mentioned, often have a bakery section. You can find freshly baked Pan de Sal (Filipino bread rolls), Ensaimada (sweet brioche-like pastry), Ube cakes and pastries (made with purple yam), and various kakanin (rice cakes). These bakeries are crucial for the Filipino community and offer a delightful experience for anyone looking to sample the sweeter side of Filipino cuisine or enjoy a classic Filipino breakfast with freshly baked goods.

Halal Considerations in Filipino Cuisine

While traditional Filipino cuisine includes pork in many dishes (like Adobo or Lechon), the Filipino restaurants in Sharjah, being in the UAE, are generally very mindful of Halal dietary requirements. Most Filipino restaurants in the emirate will serve Halal meat options for dishes that traditionally feature pork, or they will clearly indicate which dishes are pork-free. Many common dishes like chicken Adobo, seafood Sinigang, or Kare-Kare with beef or chicken are naturally Halal or easily adaptable. It is always wise to confirm with the restaurant staff if you have specific dietary concerns, but rest assured that there are plenty of delicious Halal Filipino options available.

A Taste of Home Away From Home

For the Filipino expatriates in Sharjah, these restaurants serve as a vital link to their heritage, offering a taste of home away from home. For others, they provide an exciting opportunity to explore a cuisine that is rich in history and bursting with unique flavors. The www.few.ae team consistently finds that Filipino restaurants in Sharjah provide not just great food, but also a warm, welcoming atmosphere that reflects the hospitality the Philippines is famous for. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an cultural immersion.

Embark on Your Filipino Food Adventure

Sharjah truly offers a fantastic landscape for experiencing authentic Filipino cuisine, brimming with diverse flavors and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re craving classic comfort food like Adobo and Sinigang, or eager to explore the unique textures of Pancit and Lumpia, the emirate’s Filipino restaurants have something to delight every palate. So, step out and embark on your own Filipino food adventure in Sharjah; you’re in for a treat that is both delicious and culturally enriching.