An Overview to Dampa in the Philippines
There’s your usual fast food, there’s fine-dining restaurant, and there’s buffet. You may think that these are the only places where you could go eat but then there’s dampa. Have you tried eating at a dampa? If not, here’s a quick guide to a Dampa experience in the Philippines.
What is Dampa?
Fresh seafood awaits you in Dampa
Dampa is a Filipino word that means “hut.” However, it is most commonly known in Manila as a place where you can get fresh seafood. It is not your usual restaurant because in here, the “catch” is you have the liberty to decide which seafood you want, how many, and (most important) how you want it cooked.
The Dampa Experience
The Dampa experience is quite easy. Just go to the wet market side of the dampa, buy whatever seafood you like, bring them to a restaurant/eatery, then instruct how you want it to be cooked. If you’re not the type to go to the market and do the thing by yourself, you can ask the waiter to do it for you for only a minimal fee.
What to expect in a Dampa
Baked scallops
Crabs and other seafood dishes can be found in dampa
Since the Philippines is relatively surrounded by bodies of water, you can really expect to get fresh seafood in here. The thing about dampa is that you are sure to get a fresh seafood meal compared to other restaurants. Some of the best things to get would be shrimp, king crabs, tilapia, lapu-lapu, mussels, and lobsters, among many others.
Popular Dampa places in Manila
Aling Tonya’s Seafood Palutuan
Address: Pasay By The Bay, SM Mall of Asia, Bay Blvd., Central Business Park, Bay City, Pasay City
TEL: 02-556-1782
Dampa sa Farmers Market
Address: Farmers Market, Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City
TEL: 02-913-2803
Dampa Tips
- Dampa does not have a fine-dining ambience so expect it to be a bit crowded and noisy.
- If you are in groups, dampa is a great place for sumptuous, budget-friendly meals
- Some restaurants/eateries charge a service fee; make sure you check.
- It’s better to go to a dampa in the morning to ensure the freshness of the seafood.
- Check first if they accept credit cards.
- Budget for a group of 10: P3,000 to P5,000
