Dumaguete, known as the “City of Gentle People,” is a haven for expats and digital nomads who are drawn to its laid-back lifestyle, vibrant local culture, and affordable cost of living. One of the city’s charms is its variety of markets, where locals and visitors alike can find everything from fresh produce to handcrafted goods. Whether you’re looking for the freshest ingredients for your next meal, unique souvenirs, or just a lively place to explore, Dumaguete’s markets are sure to delight. Here are some of the best markets in Dumaguete that offer a glimpse into the local life and culture.
Public Market Dumaguete
Location: Perdices Street, Dumaguete City
Type of Market: Traditional Public Market
Open: Daily, 4 AM – 8 PM
The Public Market Dumaguete, located in the heart of the city, is a bustling hub where locals go for their daily necessities. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and find a wide array of products, from fresh seafood and vegetables to clothing and household items. The market is divided into sections, making it easier for shoppers to find what they’re looking for.
We Recommend: Trying the fresh seafood, especially the locally caught fish and squid, which are known for their freshness and flavor.
Daros Night Market
Location: Rizal Boulevard, Dumaguete City
Type of Market: Night Market
Open: Evenings, 5 PM – 12 AM (Weekends)
Daros Night Market is a popular evening destination for both locals and expats. It’s a great place to enjoy a variety of street food, shop for trinkets, and experience the local nightlife. The market is known for its lively atmosphere and is a perfect spot to unwind after a day’s work or exploration.
We Recommend: Sampling the street food delicacies such as tempura, balut (fertilized duck egg), and the sweet treats like halo-halo for a truly Filipino experience.
Malatapay Market
Location: Zamboanguita, just south of Dumaguete City
Type of Market: Weekly Livestock and Produce Market
Open: Wednesdays, early morning until around 5 PM
Malatapay Market is a weekly event that transforms the quiet town of Zamboanguita into a lively marketplace. It’s well-known for its livestock auction, but you’ll also find a variety of local produce, handicrafts, and even street food vendors. The market offers a unique rural Philippine market experience and is a great place to find local specialties.
We Recommend: Checking out the livestock auction for a unique cultural experience and exploring the local handicrafts for souvenirs such as hand-woven baskets and mats.
Robinsons Place Dumaguete
Location: Calindagan Corner South Road, Dumaguete City
Type of Market: Shopping Mall
Open: Daily, 10 AM – 9 PM
Robinsons Place Dumaguete is not your traditional market, but it’s a one-stop-shop for everything from groceries to fashion. This modern mall has a variety of stores, a supermarket, and dining options. It’s a convenient place for expats and digital nomads to find familiar products and enjoy some leisure time.
We Recommend: Visiting the supermarket for a wide selection of local and international food items, and checking out the department store for tropical clothing suited to the Philippine climate.
Sidlakang Negros Village
Location: EJ Blanco Drive, Piapi, Dumaguete City
Type of Market: Cultural and Crafts Market
Open: Daily, 8 AM – 5 PM
Sidlakang Negros Village is a cultural showcase where you can find products from different parts of the Negros Oriental province. It’s an excellent place for those interested in local arts, crafts, and delicacies. The market is also a venue for cultural events and festivals, making it a vibrant place to visit.
We Recommend: Exploring the handcrafted jewelry and pottery, and don’t miss out on the local sweets like bud-bud (sticky rice delicacies) and tablea (chocolate).
Ceres Mart
Location: Along National Highway, Dumaguete City
Type of Market: Convenience Market
Open: Daily, 24 hours
Ceres Mart is a convenient stop for those who need to shop at any hour of the day. It’s a smaller market but offers a good selection of snacks, drinks, and basic groceries. It’s particularly handy for digital nomads who keep unconventional hours and may need to grab something late at night or early in the morning.
We Recommend: Picking up some local snacks like chicharon (pork cracklings) and puto (steamed rice cakes) for a quick and tasty treat.
Claytown Pottery
Location: Bantayan, Dumaguete City
Type of Market: Pottery Market
Open: Daily, 8 AM – 5 PM
Claytown Pottery is a unique market where you can find beautifully crafted clay products made by local artisans. It’s a great place to find decorative items for your home or gifts for friends and family. The market also offers a glimpse into the pottery-making process, as some artisans work on-site.
We Recommend: Purchasing a custom-made clay pot or vase as a functional piece of art that also supports local craftsmanship.
These markets in Dumaguete offer a mix of traditional and modern shopping experiences, providing expats and digital nomads with plenty of options to explore local culture, cuisine, and crafts. Whether you’re looking for fresh ingredients, unique gifts, or just a taste of the local lifestyle, Dumaguete’s markets are sure to have something for everyone.
