Roberto's — Restaurant in Iloilo City

Having recently visited Iloilo, I had the pleasure of trying Robert’s Siopao, and I must say, it was an experience worth writing about. From the moment I stepped into the quaint little shop, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of freshly steamed buns and savory fillings. Here's my breakdown:

1. Flavor: The siopao at Robert’s is bursting with flavor. Whether you opt for the classic asado filling or the more adventurous bola-bola, each bite is a delightful explosion of savory goodness. The balance of sweet and salty in the filling is just perfect.

2. Texture: The texture of the siopao is impeccable. The bun is soft and fluffy, with just the right amount of chewiness. It's evident that great care has been taken in the preparation of the dough, resulting in a light and airy consistency that complements the hearty filling.

3. Size: One of the things I appreciated most about Robert’s Siopao is the generous portion size. These siopaos are not only delicious but also satisfyingly large, making them the perfect snack or meal on the go.

4. Authenticity: As a lover of Filipino cuisine, authenticity is always a priority for me, and Robert’s Siopao did not disappoint. The flavors and textures transport you straight to the streets of Manila, offering a taste of true Filipino comfort food.

5. Price: Considering the quality and size of the siopao, the prices at Robert’s are more than reasonable. It's an affordable indulgence that won't break the bank.

Overall, Robert’s Siopao in Iloilo is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Filipino flavors. With its delicious fillings, perfect texture, and generous portions, it's no wonder this little shop has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. I'll definitely be returning for another taste of their mouthwatering siopao on my next trip to Iloilo.

Best Siopao in the...

If you're visiting Iloilo, Roberto’s Siopao is a must-try. As tourists, we fell in love with it—one of our absolute favorite bites in the city.

Here’s how it works: just walk in and join the line. While you wait, the menu is right in front of you, so you can decide what to order. Don’t miss the chance to get a siopao (they occasionally run out, especially during lunch hours!). We went several times around noon, and if you're lucky, you might still catch the King—my personal favorite—or the Queen, which my partner adored. The Queen is a bit too big for me, and its seasoning is distinct, but it’s definitely a hit.

We also tried their lumpia and meat skewers, both flavorful and satisfying.

If you're with someone, have them save your seat—this place is always packed with locals grabbing a quick bite. After ordering and paying, you’ll receive a small device that buzzes when your food is ready. Then, just pick it up and enjoy.

Every bite of the siopao—filled with pork, sausage, and egg—is a unique blend of flavors. The bun itself is airy, soft, and perfectly cooked. I was genuinely impressed, especially since I usually avoid siopao because they tend to be gummy. But Roberto’s version is on point: light, balanced, and beautifully made.

The staff is attentive, though you’ll notice they’re quite busy due to the fast pace and constant flow of customers. Everyone is focused on their task, and despite the crowd, the place is always clean and well-organized—a testament to how efficiently...

Home of the best siopao in the Philippines.

Have to qualify that, though with the proper variant. Get the "Queen" Siopao if available because high demand for it might mean they run out by mid afternoon. The Queen (₱180) is a big one. It's almost as big as your face with soft and chewy siopao dough enveloping bacon, Chinese sausage, chicken and pork adobo (Ilonggo style) and an entire egg. The combination is a burst of flavor and texture. This being an Ilonggo classic, it cannot help but be on the sweetish side. It also pays homage to Claude "Madam Claudia" Yap. Roberto's vibrant owner who passed on in 2020. He is such a funny and beloved character that he was often referred to as the "Queen" of siopao. The difference between the Queen and the King is the bacon for the Queen while it's ham for the King. All the rest of the fillings stay the same.

Food - 4*, aside from the Queen, we also got the Jumbo (₱100) which was underwhelming because it tastes like an ordinary siopao. It had Chinese sausage, chicken and pork adobo and egg. The dough raises the level a bit.

We also tried their famous meatballs and lumpiang Shanghai (₱130 with plain rice and ₱135 with fried rice). Yes they were meaty and filling and the prices were fantastic but it's so familiar it's nothing to write home about.

To round it out we ordered their Pancit Bihon and several Cokes.

Service - 5*, attentive, fast and well oiled

Parking - 3*, street...