Best Restaurants in El Nido: Where to Eat for an Unforgettable Dining Experience

If you’re heading to El Nido, you’re probably already planning to feast your eyes on crystal-clear waters and dramatic limestone cliffs. But what about feasting your stomach? This little tropical paradise isn’t just about the beaches—it’s also becoming a must-visit destination for food lovers. If you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, classic Filipino meals, or even international flavors, El Nido has a wide variety to please any taste.

In this guide, I’ve rounded up the best restaurants in El Nido so you can spend less time wondering where to eat and more time enjoying your vacation (with a full belly!). Ready? Let’s dive in!

Overview of El Nido’s Culinary Scene

The Growing Food Scene

El Nido might be known for its breathtaking beaches and lagoons, but over the years, its food scene has become just as captivating. You’ll find a mix of local flavors, fresh seafood, and global cuisines—often with a twist. Restaurants range from casual eateries perfect for a laid-back lunch after a day of island hopping, to upscale dining spots where you can enjoy a romantic sunset dinner.

What You’ll Find

• Filipino Cuisine: Expect hearty dishes like adobo, sinigang, and plenty of seafood. The local flavors are bold, fresh, and often prepared with a coastal influence.
  
  
  _{chicken adobo | local cuisine | Kabu Sawsaw, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons}
• Seafood: El Nido’s fishing industry is booming, which means you’ll find some of the freshest fish, lobster, and prawns you’ve ever tasted.
• International Flavors: There’s no shortage of pizza, pasta, and other global comfort food, especially in spots like Trattoria Altrove.
• Vegetarian/Vegan Options: More and more places are catering to plant-based eaters, offering delicious veggie-packed dishes.
  

So, whether you’re in the mood for local fare, fresh seafood, or something more familiar, El Nido’s food scene has it all.

Criteria for Selecting the Best Restaurants

What makes a restaurant the best? Here’s how I’ve chosen the spots in this guide:

• Food Quality: Fresh ingredients are key in El Nido, especially the seafood. You want dishes that taste as amazing as they look.
• Customer Service: Nothing ruins a meal faster than bad service. The best restaurants offer friendly, attentive service that makes you feel right at home.
• Ambience: Whether you’re looking for a beachside view, a cozy nook, or a lively atmosphere, the vibe of a restaurant can really make or break the experience.
• Value for Money: You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy a good meal, but the best restaurants balance quality with fair prices.
• Popularity & Reviews: Word of mouth matters. The top spots are often those praised by both locals and travelers alike.
  

Now, let’s take a look at the best restaurants in El Nido based on these criteria!

Top 10 Best Restaurants in El Nido

Here are my top picks for the best places to eat in El Nido:

1. El Nido Artcafe

• Cuisine: Filipino, Mediterranean, International
• Why You’ll Love It: This cozy spot is known for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and laid-back atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can kick back with a cold drink, watch the world go by, and enjoy a variety of dishes—from hearty Filipino meals to Mediterranean-inspired bites.
• Must-Try: The seafood platters are a crowd favorite, and the smoothies are perfect for a hot day.
• Ambience: Chill and artsy, with a mix of locals and tourists.
• Location: El Nido town proper.
  

2. Trattoria Altrov’é

• Cuisine: Italian
• Why You’ll Love It: If you’re craving an authentic Italian meal, this is the place to be. With wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta made daily, it’s a slice of Italy in the heart of El Nido. The intimate vibe makes it great for a romantic dinner or a small group hangout.
• Must-Try: Their wood-fired pizzas are always a hit, especially the seafood variety.
• Ambience: Cozy, intimate, and perfect for dinner under the stars.
• Location: Close to the town center.
  

3. La Plage

• Cuisine: Seafood, Filipino
• Why You’ll Love It: Located right on the beach, La Plage offers amazing views and a fantastic variety of fresh seafood. If you’re looking for a laid-back meal by the beach, this is the spot. The seafood paella here is especially popular!
• Must-Try: Grilled fish and seafood paella.
• Ambience: Casual, beachfront, with an unbeatable sunset view.
• Location: Corong Corong Beach.
  

4. The Cavern Restaurant & Bar

• Cuisine: Filipino, Fusion
• Why You’ll Love It: The Cavern offers a modern twist on traditional Filipino dishes. If you’re looking for something different, their fusion menu combines local ingredients with international flavors. The vibe is casual yet has a hint of elegance.
• Must-Try: Kare-kare (Filipino oxtail stew) and fresh mango shakes.
• Ambience: Trendy with a relaxed vibe, perfect for a chill evening.
• Location: El Nido town center.
  

5. Sava Beach Bar

• Cuisine: International, Fusion
• Why You’ll Love It: This trendy beach club is perfect for sunset cocktails or tapas with a view. Sava’s laid-back but vibrant atmosphere is great for both daytime lounging and evening fun.
• Must-Try: Signature cocktails and tapas platters.
• Ambience: Vibrant and trendy, with great music and beach views.
• Location: Las Cabanas Beach.
  

6. Big Bad Thai

• Cuisine: Thai
• Why You’ll Love It: If you love Thai food, Big Bad Thai is a must-visit. This vibrant spot offers authentic Thai dishes with bold flavors, including delicious curries and stir-fries.
• Must-Try: The green curry and pad thai are favorites here.
• Ambience: Fun and casual, with a great vibe for enjoying Thai classics.
• Location: El Nido town.
  

7. Bella Vita

• Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
• Why You’ll Love It: Set against a stunning ocean backdrop, Bella Vita brings the flavors of Italy to El Nido. Enjoy authentic pizzas, pastas, and fresh seafood in a cozy, upscale atmosphere. The perfect place to unwind with a glass of wine and savor delicious dishes after a day of exploring.
• Must-Try: Wood-fired pizza and seafood pasta.
• Ambience: Elegant yet relaxed, with a romantic, coastal vibe.
• Location: Corong-Corong Beach, El Nido.

8. Piece of Sky El Nido

• Cuisine: Filipino, Fusion
• Why You’ll Love It: For an elevated experience of Filipino flavors with a modern twist, Piece of Sky offers a stunning view paired with creative dishes. The vibe is casual yet sophisticated, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
• Must-Try: Seafood Pasta
• Ambience: Relaxed and breezy, with panoramic views of El Nido’s natural beauty.
• Location: Situated above the town, Barangay Buena Suerte

9. Taste El Nido, 100% Plant-Based Cafe

• Cuisine: 100% Plant-Based, Vegan
• Why You’ll Love It: Taste El Nido offers a vibrant, plant-based menu that’s both nutritious and delicious. Whether you’re vegan or simply looking to try something new, this cozy cafe provides wholesome meals in a laid-back, tropical atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to nourish your body while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
• Must-Try: Jackfruit tacos and creamy coconut curry.
• Ambience: Bright, airy, and laid-back, with a focus on natural materials and a relaxed vibe.
• Location: Barangay Buena Suerte

10. Happiness Beach Bar

• Cuisine: Barbecue, Seafood, International
• Why You’ll Love It: For a laid-back, happy-go-lucky vibe by the beach, Happiness Beach Bar is your go-to. Enjoy great cocktails, light bites, and fresh seafood while lounging by the sand.
• Must-Try: The BBQ platters and refreshing cocktails.
• Ambience: Chill, with a beachy vibe and comfy seating.
• Location: Barangay Buena Suerte.

Best Restaurant Experiences by Type of Dining

Not every meal is the same—sometimes, you want a laid-back lunch by the beach, other times you’re in the mood for something more romantic or upscale. Here are my top picks based on your vibe:

• For Beachfront Dining: La Plage, Sava Beach Bar, and Pukka Beach Club.
• For Romantic Dinners: Trattoria Altrove and El Nido Artcafe.
• For Budget-Friendly Options: Lolo Nonoy’s Food Station and Big Roti.
• For Seafood Lovers: La Plage, Sea Breeze Café, and The Cavern Restaurant.
• For Vegetarians/Vegans: El Nido Artcafe and The Cavern Restaurant & Bar.

Tips for Dining in El Nido

• Book in Advance: During peak seasons, some of the most popular restaurants can get packed. It’s smart to secure your spot early.
• Timing is Key: For sunset views, aim to arrive an hour or so before sunset to snag the best spot.
  
  
  _{El Nido Sunset View}
• Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not expected. A 10% tip is considered standard in most places.
• Don’t Miss Local Dishes: Try kare-kare (oxtail stew), sinigang (sour soup), and lechon (roast pig) if you’re looking for a true Filipino experience.

Conclusion

From fresh seafood and Filipino comfort food to international dishes with a local twist, El Nido has it all when it comes to dining. Whether you’re looking for a casual bite, a romantic dinner, or a lively beachfront hangout, you’ll find a spot that fits your vibe. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and indulge in the amazing food while you soak up all that El Nido has to offer!

Got a favorite spot or dining experience in El Nido? If you have any thoughts or suggestions, drop a comment below—I’d be happy to hear from you! For a more comprehensive overview of El Nido, check out our El Nido travel guide.