Filipino Merienda
Discover authentic Filipino snacks and merienda - perfect for afternoon breaks, gatherings, and anytime cravings.
About Filipino Merienda
Merienda is the Filipino tradition of snacking between meals - a sacred pause in the day for coffee, tea, and delicious bites. From street food favorites like Kwek Kwek to homemade classics like Puto and Ensaymada, merienda options are endless. These snacks can be sweet or savory, simple or elaborate, but they all share the goal of bringing people together for a moment of enjoyment and conversation.
Lumpia Shanghai
Crispy meat-filled spring rolls
Turon
Fried banana spring rolls with jackfruit
Puto
Steamed rice cakes, fluffy and mild
Empanada
Savory meat-filled pastries
Kwek Kwek
Deep-fried quail eggs in orange batter
Ensaymada
Buttery brioche topped with cheese
Merienda Tips & Traditions
Perfect Pairing
Merienda is best enjoyed with coffee (kape) or hot chocolate (tsokolate). The drink is as important as the snack.
Share the Moment
Merienda is meant to be shared. Make extra portions and invite friends and family to join.
Timing is Everything
Traditional merienda times are 10am and 3pm, but really, anytime is merienda time in the Philippines.