Oldest Chinatown in the World

My mom recalls walking through Manila’s Chinatown on her way to school when she was a little girl. She told me it wasn’t considered an official Chinatown at that time, even though the restaurants and shops were predominantly owned and run by Chinese Filipinos.

Today, the Manila neighborhood known as BINONDO is recognized as the oldest Chinatown in the world. Its origins date back to when the Spanish government founded the district to keep watchful control over Chinese Catholics in 1594.

After visiting my mother's childhood home in Tondo, I ventured into nearby Binondo with my friends for some shopping, exploration, and of course, EATING.

We visited TOHO ANTIGUA Pancitería Restaurant, where I met the owner, Alger Wong. He shared with me what makes his restaurant, as well as the historic neighborhood, so special (besides its delicious Chinese food).

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