Christmas or Not, Here’s Where to Buy Filipino Favorite Puto Bumbong in Metro Manila

The “Ber” months are finally here and this means Christmas is just around the corner! You’ve probably craved for a certain purple sticky rice cake steamed in bamboo tubes — yes, we’re talking about the classic puto bumbong.

Puto bumbong is a traditional Filipino delicacy famous during the Christmas season that completes every household’s holiday vibe. Our team curated a list of where to get the best puto bumbong around the metro without having to wait for Christmas or Simbang Gabi (dawn mass). Read on to find out!

Mila's PutoBumbong

If you swing by in Muntinlupa, make sure to check out Mila’s PutoBumbong serving this freshly cooked Filipino delicacy. The local restaurant is said to be one of the first puto bumbong sellers in town which was originally located beside Our Lady of the Abandoned Church.

You will never run out of options with Mila’s PutoBumbong as their menu features various choices categorized into Classics, Best Sellers, Flavored, and Specials. For only P70, you can order Espesyal puto bumbong consisting of salted egg, leche flan, cheese, and condensed milk.

Location: 664 National Road, Poblacion, Muntinlupa, Metro Manila

De Leon's Special Bibingka

Although famous for selling fluffy bibingka,you should also check out De Leon’s authentic puto bumbong proudly made from real galapong (rice flour) and steamed to perfection.

Ranging from P40 to P60 only, you can choose among these treats: puto bumbong with cocovado (coconut and muscovado), puto bumbong overload with milk and cheese, and of course, the classic puto bumbong roll.

They also have a “seasonal” recipe, a combination of turon (fried banana rolls) and puto bumbong perfect for an afternoon snack if you’re craving for something sweet and a little bit salty. It is stuffed with the right amount of cheese and salted caramel sauce.

Location: 86 N. Domingo St. San Juan City, Metro Manila

Café Via Mare

Serving first-class Filipino cuisine for more than four decades, Café Via Mare’s first-ever restaurant was founded in Legaspi, Makati. The term “Via Mare” comes from the Latin word meaning “way of the sea,” as the company initially introduced a fine dining seafood restaurant concept. 

Throughout the decades, Café Via Mare has been recognized by prominent guests and delegates in the country for serving one of the most authentic puto bumbong in the metro.

Filled with grated cheddar cheese and queso de bola, the classic combo of freshly steamed puto bumbong is most-recommended. While there, also try out a bowl of Pancit Luglog or a cup of hot Spanish tablea chocolate drink to warm you this cold season.

Provenciano Restaurant

This Filipino restaurant will take you on a tour around the Philippines through their authentic regional and Spanish-influence cuisines. Last year, Provenciano Restaurant decided to help others by giving the proceeds of their best-selling bibingka and puto bumbong to their staff and other marginal groups. It is their way of supporting them during the pandemic. Prices range from P125 to P150 per serving.

As of writing, Provenciano is now open for dine-in, but guests must present a valid ID and vaccination card.

Location: #110 Maginhawa St. Quezon City, Philippines

The Manila Hotel

Want to spend your lazy afternoon in a hotel lobby where you can enjoy the traditional Christmas classic puto bumbong? Visit Manila Hotel Lobby Lounge where customers can take pleasure in the fresh air while overlooking Rizal Park’s lush greenery with a bonus of free wi-fi.

The Manila Hotel is a 108-year-old edifice and historical landmark in Manila, serving heads of state and royalties with newly renovated and modern amenities.

Location:  One Rizal Park, Manila, Philippines