LA PAZ BATCHOY, ILOILO | NETONG’S, TED’S AND DECO’S

La Paz Batchoy, Iloilo

LA PAZ BATCHOY, ILOILO | NETONG’S, TED’S AND DECO’S

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Visiting Iloilo with my friends Claire Algarme and Maricar Dabao, both from Bacolod City, was a culinary adventure centered around one iconic dish: La Paz Batchoy. We intentionally sought out this famous noodle soup, eager to taste the flavors that define Iloilo’s food scene.

La Paz Batchoy is more than just a dish; it’s a testament to Iloilo’s culinary heritage. While it may seem similar to other noodle soups, what sets it apart is its unique blend of ingredients. The broth, infused with the flavors of meat and toasted garlic, is elevated by the addition of crushed chicharron, giving it a distinct taste that is both comforting and unforgettable.

We enjoyed our bowls of La Paz Batchoy in a cozy eatery, surrounded by the bustling energy of Iloilo City. As we savored each spoonful, we couldn’t help but appreciate the simplicity and complexity of this dish. It’s a comfort food that warms the soul, perfect for any time of year but especially comforting during cooler seasons.

Truly the Best La Paz Batchoy: Ted’s, deco’s, and Netong’s

When it comes to the best La Paz Batchoy, there’s no place like Iloilo. While this iconic dish has become widely available across the country, nothing beats the original flavors from its place of origin.

In Iloilo, the La Paz Public Market stands out as the ultimate destination for the best La Paz Batchoy experience. Here, you’ll find three of the province’s oldest eateries—Deco’s, Ted’s, and Netong’s—all of which have been serving up this beloved dish since the 1940s.

Each of these eateries has its own take on La Paz Batchoy, but they all share the same commitment to quality and tradition. Whether you prefer Ted’s rich broth, Deco’s generous servings, or Netong’s flavorful toppings, you’re guaranteed to enjoy a truly authentic and unforgettable La Paz Batchoy experience at the La Paz Public Market.

Among the three iconic La Paz Batchoy eateries in Iloilo’s La Paz Public Market—Deco’s, Ted’s, and Netong’s—Netong’s stands out as a hidden gem that may require a bit of searching to find. While Deco’s and Ted’s are more easily accessible and well-known, Netong’s location is a bit more tucked away, adding to its allure.

Despite its hidden location, Netong’s is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, known for its rich and flavorful La Paz Batchoy. Once you find Netong’s, you’ll understand why its location becomes unforgettable after trying their Batchoy.

What sets these eateries apart is not just their location, but also their approach to the dish. Instead of simply calling it La Paz Batchoy, they label their servings as “special,” “extra special,” or “super special,” indicating the level of ingredients and care put into each bowl.

Pricing is also reasonable, ranging from P90 to P130 ( prices updated as of March 2024), making it an affordable yet satisfying meal. Deciding which of the three is the best Batchoy spot ultimately comes down to personal preference, as each eatery offers its unique take on this beloved dish.

Here’s how to get to La Paz Market and what to expect as a first-time visitor:

Getting to La Paz Market: You can take a jeepney or taxi to La Paz Market from Iloilo City. The jeepney ride is the most affordable option. Just look for jeepneys with “La Paz” signs. If you’re taking a taxi, be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand.
Finding the Best Batchoy: When you arrive at La Paz Market, you’ll find many shops and stalls selling batchoy. Feel free to explore and try different shops to find your favorite batchoy.
What to Expect: La Paz Market is a busy and vibrant place with lots of stalls selling local delicacies, fresh produce, and other goods. The atmosphere can be overwhelming for first-time visitors, with crowds of people, noisy vendors, and the smell of cooking food. However, this is all part of the experience and adds to the charm of the place.
Order Like a Pro: When ordering, you’ll need to tell the server your preferred type of noodles (Miki, bihon, sotanghon, or a combination), meat (pork, chicken, or beef), and whether you want it “special” (with added ingredients like liver, intestines, and pork cracklings) or “regular.” You can also add condiments like chili oil, calamansi, and soy sauce to taste.
Enjoy Your Meal: Once your order is served, mix in the condiments and enjoy! It’s best enjoyed hot and with a side of puto (rice cakes) or pandesal (bread rolls).

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La Paz Batchoy, Iloilo

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Myles says:

April 28, 2022 at 10:19

Mga palangga try the authentic dish that you will never forget. It has a distinct sweet and salty taste in its soup, as well as the fluffiness and texture of its noodles. The La Paz Batchoy's soup is crucial to the whole dish. As a matter of fact, Ted's Lapaz Batchoy encourage their patrons to request additional servings of the soup.