This blog post is all about the best El Nido restaurants.
El Nido, Palawan, isn’t just a destination for stunning beaches and world-class island hopping. It’s also great for foodies.
I was very surprised by how diverse and vibrant the food scene here is. With everything from authentic Filipino dishes to Greek, Indian, and even Ukrainian cuisine.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy café for lunch, a fine dining experience, or the perfect spot to watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand, El Nido has something to satisfy every craving.
This blog post is all about the best El Nido restaurants in the Philippines.
The Best El Nido Restaurants
During my time here, eating out became just as much of an adventure as exploring the lagoons and beaches.
From beachfront bistros to hidden gems tucked away in town, El Nido has it all.
And because the dining options are as varied as the landscape, you can mix it up. Enjoy a luxurious poolside lunch one day and feast on freshly baked Ukrainian dumplings the next.
Below are some of the best El Nido restaurants this paradise has to offer!
List of the Best El Nido Restaurants
To help you make the most of your time (and meals!) in El Nido, I’ve rounded up 11 of the best El Nido restaurants and dining experiences you need to try.
Trust me, you’ll want to bring your appetite. This little slice of paradise is a food lover’s dream!
1. Café Athena
If you’re craving Mediterranean vibes and a meal with a view, Café Athena is the perfect spot.
The restaurant is located right next to the sea, with big windows that let in plenty of natural light and offer stunning ocean views. It’s literally picture-perfect and one of those places where you feel like you could sit for hours just soaking it all in.
And the food? Spot on. It felt like being back in Rhodes, with all the familiar Greek flavours that I love.
We did what we always do, ordered two meals to share, and went for the souvlaki and the gyros, both of which hit the spot. The meat was tender and flavourful, the tzatziki was creamy and fresh, and the pita bread was just the right level of fluffy.
Pair your meal with a glass of wine or a refreshing iced tea, and you’ve got the ultimate midday treat. Café Athena is a must-visit and one of the best El Nido restaurants for Greek cuisine!
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2. Frendz Hostel El Nido
Let me be upfront, Frendz Hostel El Nido probably won’t serve you the best meal in town, but it will give you the best view of the sunset, hands down.
Located on the rooftop of this lively hostel, the bar and pool area offer an absolutely incredible spot to watch the sky turn shades of pink, orange, and gold as the sun dips below the horizon.
It’s the perfect place to grab some drinks, kick back, and soak in the moment. They serve food like pizza and other casual bites, but I’d recommend sticking to snacks and cocktails while you’re here. Plus, there’s a happy hour, so you can enjoy your drinks without breaking the bank.
There’s also a pool on the rooftop, which adds to the chilled-out, tropical vibe. Whether you want to cool off with a quick swim or just lounge by the water with a drink in hand, it’s a great way to enjoy El Nido’s relaxed atmosphere.
Frendz Hostel is a must-visit for sunset lovers and anyone looking for a fun, laid-back evening in El Nido!
3. Cusina Charitos
Whenever I travel, I always make it a point to try the local cuisine. It’s one of the best ways to connect with the culture.
Now, I’ll admit, I’m not quite brave enough to try balut (a fertilized duck egg that’s boiled and eaten straight from the shell—it’s a Filipino delicacy but definitely not for the faint-hearted).
That said, I’m so game for pretty much everything else, and Cusina Charitos is where I went to get my fix of authentic Filipino flavours.
This cozy little restaurant has a homely vibe and serves up some of the best Filipino food I had in El Nido.
I went for the adobo, a classic Filipino dish made with tender chicken or pork simmered in a tangy soy sauce and vinegar marinade, and it was absolutely delicious. The flavours were rich and perfectly balanced, and you could tell it was cooked with love.
The portions here aren’t massive, so don’t expect to leave feeling stuffed, but the quality and flavour more than make up for it. The service is warm and friendly, and the whole place feels like you’ve been welcomed into someone’s home for dinner.
If you’re looking for a spot to try authentic local dishes in a relaxed setting, Cusina Charitos is a fantastic choice and one of the best El Nido restaurants.
4. Dinner at Big Bad Thai
If you’re craving bold, flavourful dishes with a beachside vibe, Big Bad Thai is the place to go. Located right by the water, it’s a great spot to unwind after a long day of exploring and enjoy some seriously good Thai food.
I went for the pad thai, and the portion size was huge! Much bigger than what you typically get in Thailand, so come hungry! The flavours were spot-on, with just the right balance of sweetness, tanginess, and a little kick of spice.
The casual, laid-back atmosphere is perfect for a relaxed dinner. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Thai food or just looking for a great spot to enjoy dinner by the sea, Big Bad Thai is definitely worth checking out.
Big Bad Thai is one of the best El Nido restaurants for Thai food.
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5. Angkla Beach Club
If you’re looking for a touch of luxury during your time in El Nido, the Angkla Beach Club is the perfect spot.
It’s a little drive out from the main part of town, but trust me, it’s well worth it for a relaxing and indulgent day by the beach.
There’s something so special about day clubs. Sipping on cocktails in an infinity pool right next to the beach is pretty much the definition of vacation vibes. And for someone like me, who loves the beach but isn’t the biggest fan of the sea, this was absolutely perfect.
You can enjoy the stunning coastal views and the gentle sound of the waves without having to set foot in the ocean.
The food and drinks here are just as impressive as the setting. The menu offers a mix of Filipino and international dishes, and everything I tried was beautifully presented and delicious.
Whether you’re treating yourself to a long, lazy lunch or just snacking between dips in the pool, you’ll feel totally spoiled. It’s one of the best El Nido restaurants for beachfront vibes.
6. Biryani Kitchen
Biryani Kitchen was such a hidden gem and a delightful surprise in El Nido. Definitely one of the best El Nido restaurants that I visited!
If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine, this small, family-run spot will blow you away. The moment you step in, the aroma of spices fills the air, and you know you’re in for something special.
I ordered the butter chicken, and it was incredible. Creamy, rich, and perfectly spiced, with just the right balance of sweetness and heat. Paired with fluffy basmati rice and a side of warm naan bread, it was pure comfort food and exactly what I needed after a long day.
The samosas were another standout: crispy on the outside, with a flavourful filling that had me wishing I’d ordered more. It’s clear that every dish is made with love and care, which makes the dining experience feel extra special.
The setting is simple and unpretentious, but the flavours more than make up for it. If you’re looking to switch things up from the usual beachside fare and dive into something rich and satisfying, Biryani Kitchen is a must-visit.
7. Verde
If you’re looking for something fresh, healthy, and vibrant, Verde is the place to go!
This charming little spot specializes in vegetarian and vegan dishes, making it a perfect choice if you want a lighter meal. It’s a great change of pace from the rich and indulgent meals you might be enjoying elsewhere in El Nido.
I tried the Buddha bowl, and it was packed with fresh veggies, quinoa, and a zesty dressing that tied everything together beautifully. They also have smoothie bowls and wraps that look just as tempting, and the portions are generous without being overwhelming.
Whether you’re plant-based or just craving something on the healthier side, Verde is a fantastic option that proves healthy food can still be packed with flavour.
We dined here more than once, even though we’re not vegan – the food was just that good! One of the best El Nido restaurants for healthy food.
8. Odessa Mama Cafe and Boodmo Bakery
When I was planning my trip to the Philippines, the last thing I expected to find was pierogies. But oh my, these were so good!
Odessa Mama Cafe and Boodmo Bakery is a Ukrainian-inspired spot in El Nido that serves hearty, comforting dishes. And it’s such a unique find in the middle of a tropical paradise.
I went for the pierogies, which were perfectly cooked and stuffed with delicious fillings that had me craving more. They also serve other Ukrainian classics like borscht and freshly baked bread, which I’ve heard are just as amazing.
The cafe has a cozy, welcoming vibe, and it’s a great place to escape the heat and enjoy something a little different from the usual beachside fare.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore global flavours while in El Nido, Odessa Mama Cafe is a hidden gem that’s well worth a visit. Trust me, the pierogies alone make it worth the trip to one of the best El Nido restaurants!
9. Tutto Passa
Our dinner at Tutto Passa was extra special because it was our farewell meal as a group. And we couldn’t have picked a better spot for the occasion.
This charming Italian restaurant serves some of the best food in El Nido and is one of the best El Nido restaurants for that reason. With dishes that are fresh, flavourful, and absolutely delicious.
We shared a few dishes, including the arancini, which were perfectly crispy on the outside and bursting with cheesy, flavourful goodness inside.
For mains, we had the bucatini alla boscaiola, a rich and creamy pasta dish with mushrooms and pancetta, and the paccheri al ragu di manzo wagyu, featuring tender, melt-in-your-mouth wagyu beef in a hearty ragu sauce.
Every bite was a delight, and I’d highly recommend any of these dishes if you visit.
The vibe at Tutto Passa is just as good as the food. The atmosphere is so warm and welcoming, with a cozy, laid-back feel that makes it perfect for a relaxed yet celebratory dinner. We laughed, shared stories from our trip, and also toasted to an amazing adventure in El Nido.
So if you’re looking for a spot for a memorable meal, Tutto Passa is one of the best El Nido restaurants for Italian food. It was the perfect way to wrap up our time in El Nido. And one of those meals I’ll always remember!
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10. El Nido Boutique Artcafe
Artcafe is one of those places that seems to do it all, and also does it all well.
It’s a bit of an institution in El Nido and one of the best El Nido restaurants. Offering a mix of Filipino and also international dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty seafood platter, a fresh salad, or something comforting like pasta, Artcafe has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
The upstairs seating area is a highlight. Offering lovely views of the ocean that make your meal feel even more special. It’s also a great spot to relax with a drink or two. And if you visit in the evening, there’s often live music to add to the already vibrant atmosphere.
While there are lots of dining options in El Nido, Artcafe stands out as one of the best El Nido restaurants for its consistent quality and welcoming vibe. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend a couple of hours unwinding, enjoying good food, and also soaking up the island charm.
11. Gusto Gelato and Caffe
Gusto Gelato and Caffe is the perfect spot to kickstart your day in El Nido. This cozy little cafe is known for its excellent coffee, freshly baked pastries, and of course, its homemade gelato.
It’s a fantastic place to grab a quick, delicious breakfast before heading out for a day of island hopping or exploring.
If you have a sweet tooth, their gelato is also an absolute must-try. And it’s a great excuse to swing by later in the day for a refreshing treat.
The Best El Nido Restaurants in the Philippines
El Nido isn’t just a feast for the eyes, it’s also a feast for your taste buds, too!
From beachfront bites to international flavours, there’s something here for everyone in this list of best El Nido restaurants.
Whether you’re relaxing by the pool at Angkla, catching the sunset at Frendz Hostel, or indulging in Greek flavours at Café Athena, every meal in El Nido feels like a special moment.
Have you tried any of these places, or do you have a favourite I missed? Let me know in the comments as I’d love to hear your best El Nido restaurants recommendations!
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