Binondo — Venturing Out of Our Comfort Zone
We kicked off this brand new episode by stepping out of our comfort zone. After clocking 12,000 steps yesterday and finally getting to bed past midnight, we allowed ourselves a slow morning. I woke at 8:15 a.m., and by 9:30 we were in the shower, shaking off the last bit of fatigue. Forty five minutes later, we headed down to the lobby of One Uptown Residence, only to be greeted by a heavy downpour. Still, at 10:30 a.m., we hailed a Grab to Binondo for PHP443.93 (≈ MYR28/USD8/EUR7) — rain or no rain, Chinatown awaited.
The Drive Into the Real Manila
The 45 minute ride was unexpectedly enjoyable. Leaving BGC’s polished, master planned streets behind, Manila slowly revealed its raw, lived in layers. The scenery shifted from glass towers to tight roads, heritage façades, jeepneys, vendors, and everyday bustle. By the time we reached Quintin Paredes Street, we were deep in Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown — a dense, historic maze that felt worlds away from BGC.
Binondo — 400 Years of Culture
Founded in 1594 as a settlement for Chinese migrants who had converted to Catholicism, Binondo remains a thriving Filipino Chinese commercial hub. Even after more than four centuries, the neighbourhood is packed with shops, eateries, and businesses that reflect its layered heritage. Walking through it, we felt how deeply rooted and important this district still is.
Sincerity Café & Restaurant — A Mixed First Stop
We arrived at 11:15 a.m. and headed straight to Sincerity Café & Restaurant, a Binondo institution that began in 1956 as a small Uy family noodle shop. Its old school charm blended nicely with the neighbourhood’s energy. We ordered their signature Fried Chicken, an Oyster Cake, Kikiam (Loh Bak), and drinks, totalling PHP770 (≈ MYR50/USD12/EUR11) — cash only.
The Kikiam was overly oily and didn’t sit well with us. The Fried Chicken was good, and the Oyster Cake suited Cat’s taste. But the experience was dampened by the staff’s dark, surly demeanour, making us feel distinctly unwelcome. It was enough to decide we wouldn’t return.
Eng Bee Tin — Binondo’s Sweet Spot
A short stroll brought us to Eng Bee Tin Chinese Deli, the iconic hopia and tikoy haven. Shelves overflowed with flavours, textures, and colours — a paradise for first timers. Sampling the options made it clear why locals and tourists keep coming back. Our basket of treats came to PHP392 (≈ MYR25/USD6/EUR5), again cash only. A clear pattern: Binondo runs on cash.
Lost, Wind Blown, and Smoked Out
We attempted to visit Binondo Church, but Google Maps led us astray. Several confusing turns later, we found ourselves across Jones Bridge, battling winds strong enough to flip our umbrellas inside out. To add insult, a couple smoking on the bridge blew smoke directly into our faces — and later, despite knowing we were annoyed, remained completely remorseless.
Liwasang Bonifacio — A Sketchy Pause
Our detour continued until we reached Liwasang Bonifacio, where we snapped photos of Andrés Bonifacio, founder of the Katipunan. Presumably, Bonifacio Global City carries his name in honour of his legacy.
But the square felt sketchy — congested, neglected, and filled with transient crowds. It was the kind of environment where pickpockets could easily blend in. We stayed alert and didn’t linger.
A Rain Soaked Escape to SM City North EDSA
Relief washed over us when we finally hailed another Grab. The ride to SM City North EDSA, our third Manila mall, cost PHP735.42 (≈ MYR48/USD12/EUR10). Our mission: continue the never ending hunt for the large sized Levi’s denim bucket hat.
Be sure to catch the video to see how we got on there!
(Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)
📍 Location:
One Uptown Residence BGC - https://maps.app.goo.gl/8uFP2hgS9eTR3P6E9
Sincerity Restaurant - https://maps.app.goo.gl/eCyTzq7zskR231rQ6
Eng Bee Tin Chinese Deli - https://maps.app.goo.gl/PbX7RWu25Ke3ncRs8
Liwasang Bonifacio - https://maps.app.goo.gl/9PP4LsB7DAm7qeMe6
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