The National Museum of the Philippines is not just a repository of the country's cultural and natural heritage but also a witness to the evolution of Filipino cuisine. Although the museum itself isn't directly associated with the proliferation of food culture within its walls, it sits in the heart of Manila, which is a melting pot of historical influences that have shaped the nation’s gastronomy. Philippine cuisine reflects a blend of indigenous, Spanish, Chinese, and American influences, as well as other Asian and Latin cuisines.
The museum's vicinity echoes the history of Filipino culinary traditions, from pre-colonial times, through the galleon trades which introduced new ingredients and cooking methods, to the present day, where traditional dishes continue to be cherished and promoted as part of the Filipino identity.