weekend market @ the lung center complex

It has been said that in order to learn the culture of a place, one needs only to visit the local market/bazaar. This melting pot of society provides a glimpse not only of the food but also the customs and history of its people. In the provinces, it is sometimes called the "baratillo" which in my limited vocabulary translates to a place you can make "barat" or tawad. there are such places in Manila which hold such weekly activities. One is the organic market every sunday at the lung center of the Philippines compound. For those who have not tried this yet, this is a must go to experience. By food tripping alone, the trip is surely worth it. Cooked and uncooked, Filipino or imported gourmet food can be had dine in or take out at reasonable prizes. From crunchy turons to homemade paella, the choices are really plenty and the combinations sometimes weird (as you'll see later). I would recommend this to tourists and specially balikbayans inorder for them to rediscover what they left behind. The country is always not about airconditioned malls and fastfood joints. The Philippines has a rich and diverse culture and going here affords one a sneak peak at it.

Weekend Organic market @ the lung center: Operating hours 6-12 am every sunday

How to get there: From Manila, take Quezon Avenue going to Fairview, a few hundred meters before QC circle is the entrance to the Lung Center compound (entrance 20) parking is terrible if you come in late but it sure is worth it.

ADVISORY!! come early (7 am) in order to beat the sun ,park properly and choose the freshest goods. wear comfortable & loose clothing. HAGGLE!

Rating: for the food alone, this is worth it. for the dry goods, it is on the pricey side but if you are a good haggler.... Variety of goods is awesome. From produce, seafood, meats, deli's, pets... On a scale of 1-5 with 5 being the highest, I'd give this place a 4.

enjoy!!!!