Kung Hei Fat Choi!

Chinese New Year started on February 10th this year, marking the Year of the Dragon, which is the most iconic and beloved mythical creature in Chinese culture.

What’s fascinating is that Chinese New Year falls so close to Valentine’s Day, the day of hearts. And when it comes to celebrating fiery love between couples, one of the best ways is through food.

So, without any delay, here are 10 fantastic Chinese restaurants in Iloilo City where you can bring your date.

1. The Summer House Restaurant

Arguably, The Summer House is the Chinese restaurant in the city that is most remembered by the older generations. It is the go-to Chinese place for your lolos, lolas, and older titos and titas.

Since 1972, The Summer House has been serving Chinese cuisine to Ilonggos. For 50 years, they remained at their original address on the corner of Yulo-Iznart. However, they recently decided to open a branch in Megaworld Iloilo’s Festive Walk Mall, and they also have a branch in SM City.

2. Spring Palace Seafood Restaurant

This restaurant in Smallville Complex is undeniably Chinese in every aspect. From the beautifully arranged tables and ambiance to the delightful sounds and, of course, the delicious food, Spring Palace truly captures the essence of Chinese cuisine.

It’s a great choice if you’re dining with a group. However, I’m not sure if it’s suitable for a quiet and intimate date, as most of the tables are arranged for group “mukbang” style dining. But if you’re a Chinese food aficionado, that might not matter to you.

Spring Palace has another branch in Jaro.

3. Kong Kee

Kong Kee is one of the original restaurants that still serves its signature Chinese dishes to this day. It’s so old that it has been associated with some intriguing urban legends, particularly involving cats. Well, at least that’s what I was told during my childhood. Now, I’m pretty sure those were just tall tales.

But one thing I’m absolutely certain about is that their siopao is one of the best dim sum I’ve ever had. You should also try their “No Name” dish, which is as delicious as its name is interesting.

The original location is found downtown, and they have recently opened a branch in Festive Walk Mall in Iloilo Business Park.

4. Dainty House Restaurant

Dainty Restaurant holds the title of being the oldest restaurant in Iloilo City and has been serving customers since 1929. It was founded on Ledesma Street by three entrepreneurs who had previously trained at Wing Kee Restaurant near Plaza Libertad.

At first, Dainty Restaurant focused on American dishes and gained popularity by 1940. Eventually, it moved to J. M. Basa Street. Today, the restaurant specializes in Chinese cuisine, and their food is simply delicious!

5. Kusina Tsina

Kusina Tsina has been serving authentic Chinese food since 2008. It started as a small, hole-in-the-wall eatery on Quezon Street, thanks to the vision of Eugene Chua and his Ilonggo wife. They named it Kusina Tsina. Today, it has grown into one of the top Chinese restaurants in the City of Love.

Kusina Tsina also has a branch in SM City Iloilo.

6. Harbour City Dimsum House

This restaurant situated in SM City originated from Cebu and specializes in Dimsum, offering a wide range of choices. If you want your loved one to taste the most authentic siomai, this is the place to be. Their service is quite unique, with waiters using food carts to take orders and serve dimsum directly to customers along the aisles.

7. Roberto’s

It’s like stepping back in time when you dine at Roberto’s. The place exudes an old-school charm that is truly delightful. Sure, it may be small, crowded, and noisy, and the ordering and service can seem fast-paced and overwhelming if you pay too much attention. But once you settle down and take a bite of their famous Siopao, you’ll experience pure bliss.

8. Royal Zhang Palace

Royal Zhang Palace is one of the main restaurants at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel in Iloilo City. It’s a Chinese restaurant in a Chinese-themed hotel. What more could you ask for

9. Master Chua Food House

I’m not entirely sure if this is a good place for a romantic date or not. However, if you don’t mind the lively atmosphere of an authentic ‘Chinese carinderia’ and all you care about is delicious Chinese food at an affordable price, then this restaurant is perfect for you lovebirds. Their first location is in the downtown Calle Real area on JM Basa Street. They later expanded to a second restaurant at 1688 Mall on Quezon Street, across from Robinsons Iloilo City.

10. Hap Chan Restaurant (closed)

Hap Chan, a beloved Filipino-Chinese restaurant chain, has opened its first branch in Iloilo! You’ll find it on the ground floor of Robinsons Place Jaro. This place has been serving up authentic dishes since it started in Manila back in the 70s. Now, they’re all over the Philippines, dishing out your favorite Filipino-Chinese meals.

Update: Hap Chan is already closed and non-operational