Food trends can change quickly, especially when social media introduces new flavors and combinations. In 2026, I noticed different foods gaining attention, from viral desserts to Filipino favorites.
Some foods became popular because of their appearance and online popularity. TikTok, Fusion Alley in Manila, and other food stalls also helped catch people’s attention.
For this gallery, I chose four foods that caught my attention. They also represent different types of food that people enjoy today.
Dubai Chewy Cookie
Caption: A Dubai chewy cookie with a soft and indulgent texture.
The Dubai chewy cookie caught my attention because of the popularity of Dubai-inspired desserts. Its chocolate, chewy texture, and rich filling make it look especially tempting.
Food trends can also inspire new versions of familiar treats. A trend from one place can quickly reach other countries through social media.
People share videos, reviews, and their own versions of popular desserts online. This makes it easier for new food trends to reach a wider audience.
For me, the appeal of the Dubai chewy cookie goes beyond its taste. Its layers, filling, and chocolate coating make it visually appealing.
It is also the kind of dessert that can easily catch someone’s attention while scrolling through social media. Sometimes, a good-looking dessert is enough to make people curious.
Ilocos Empanada
Caption: A crispy Ilocos empanada with its signature orange-colored shell.
The Ilocos empanada is a well-known Filipino food from the Ilocos region. Its bright orange shell makes it easy to recognize.
The empanada has a crispy exterior and a savory filling. It usually contains ingredients such as vegetables, egg, and meat.
When I first tried Ilocos empanada, I did not immediately like it. I found it a little dry, and its flavor reminded me of Kwek-Kwek.
The vinegar also tasted a little bland to me. Still, I would try it again because different stalls may prepare it in different ways.
Traditional foods can also become popular through social media. However, their cultural background gives them a different kind of appeal.
Choco Palitaw
Caption: Soft and chewy chocolate-flavored palitaw topped with sugar or cocoa.
Palitaw is traditionally made from glutinous rice flour. People usually coat it with grated coconut, sugar, and sesame seeds.
Choco Palitaw gives this familiar Filipino snack a sweeter twist. Adding chocolate makes it more interesting for people who enjoy sweet flavors.
Compared with the other foods in this gallery, Choco Palitaw may look much simpler. However, its simple appearance is part of its charm.
It is a familiar Filipino snack with a modern flavor. Simple ingredients can still create something enjoyable and satisfying.
I have not tried making or eating Choco Palitaw myself yet. However, I want to try it because I love chocolate.
You can also experiment with different fillings and flavors. Some options could include peanut butter, ube, or other ingredients that you enjoy.
Dried Pusit with Lots of Garlic
Caption: Dried pusit served with plenty of garlic for an extra savory flavor.
Dried pusit is another Filipino favorite that can work as a snack or part of a meal. Its salty and chewy texture already gives it a strong flavor.
Adding lots of garlic makes it even more savory. I especially enjoy the combination when I eat it with rice.
This is probably the most familiar food on my list. Dried seafood is something many Filipinos enjoy in different ways.
The strong flavor of dried pusit works well with garlic. It can also be enjoyed as a simple snack when you are craving something salty.
The social media attention around dried pusit also caught my attention. Seeing a generous amount of garlic on top makes it look even more appetizing.
A Mix of Old and New
These four foods show how different food trends can exist at the same time. Some foods gain attention through social media, while traditional Filipino dishes remain popular.
For me, this is what makes food trends interesting. They are not limited to one type of cuisine or generation.
Food also connects people through experiences, recommendations, and curiosity. Sometimes, seeing someone eat something online is enough to make us want to try it ourselves.
These four foods may be very different from one another. However, they all represent foods that people enjoy eating and sharing.
From the sweetness of a Dubai chewy cookie to the savory taste of dried pusit with garlic, there is always something new to discover. Sometimes, the food we find online can even introduce us to flavors we have never tried before.
