Roxas Night Market; Catching up with family in Davao City!

One of the highlights of my return to Mindanao was the Roxas Night Market. This bustling street market, situated along Roxas Avenue in Davao City, has a unique charm and history of its own. It officially opened in March 2016, during the tenure of then-Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. Who later became the President of the Philippines. The market was created to provide a secure and organized environment for vendors to showcase their wares during the evening and night hours. Becoming an integral part of Davao’s vibrant culture. After spending what felt like an eternity away in Makati, I finally got the chance to return to my home roots. It had been a decade since I last set foot on my home turf, and the anticipation was electric. Being able to reunite with family in Mindanao was enough to make my heart swell with joy. The feeling was surreal and unforgettable.

Davao City is famous for many things – its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and, of course, the ever-popular Roxas Night Market. If you’re planning a visit to this charming city, or if you’re a local looking for a fun night out, it is a must-visit destination. Many items here are affordable, and if you’re skilled in the art of haggling, you might score some great deals. Roxas Night Market is conveniently located along Roxas Avenue in the heart of Davao City, Philippines. While the market may not be vast in size, it’s certainly big in character. It typically opens from 5 PM until 11 PM, making it an excellent spot for both night owls and those looking for a post-dinner adventure. Mind you, they are strict with the schedule and safety. There are police officials by the gate that make sure everything is in order.

Food Trip!

One of the things I miss eating in Davao is the Kwek kwek. I know, we have it everywhere else in Metro Manila, but this one has more! Here in Roxas Night Market, vendors sell the kwek kwek along with cucumber and seaweed. Locally, people call the seaweed “Lato“. The contrast between the crispy outer layer and the fresh, oceanic hints of seaweed was a welcome taste of nostalgia. We also treated ourselves to a platter of long fries paired with rainbow mayonnaise, which was a visual delight. For dinner, we decided to order grilled/BBQ food. Our table was filled with BBQ skewers and savory hotdogs, chicken hearts, livers, and gizzards. However, the true standout was the grilled tuna jaw, a local delicacy that consistently satisfies. Each bite carried the smoky essence of the charcoal grill, infusing the meal with a dose of nostalgia.

My love for seafood, which had been missed, felt even more profound when I experienced the comforting embrace of Mindanao. Especially now that I’m sharing it again with the people closest to me. To conclude our heartwarming reunion, a visit to Mang Danny’s was a must. Although Mang Danny himself had passed away a year before our visit, his legacy lived on through his children. Who had taken up the mantle and continued the ice cream tradition. Mang Danny’s charcoal and durian ice cream, with their distinct flavor with hint of sweetness. Provided the perfect ending to our culinary journey through Roxas Night Market. At an affordable 50 PHP, it was a treat that brought a sense of closure and celebration to our visit. My heart was full, my stomach content, and my love for this region rekindled. Mindanao, I’m back, and my longing for you is beyond words.

Tips and Guidelines

  • Roxas Night Market opens at 5 PM, so it’s a good idea to arrive a bit early to get a better spot in the queue. They are strict about their opening time, and arriving on time ensures you have ample time to explore.
  • The market closes at exactly 11 PM. It’s important to be mindful of this schedule, as they adhere to it closely. Plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time.
  • Be aware that some areas in Davao City have curfews, so make sure to check local regulations if you plan to stay out late beyond your visit to the night market.
  • While pickpocketing is not as common in Davao as it is in Metro Manila, it’s still wise to be cautious and keep an eye on your belongings. Use a secure bag or pouch to store your valuables and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Littering is strictly prohibited.
  • Given the open-air setting and the bustling crowds, it’s advisable to practice good hygiene. You might want to carry hand sanitizer and tissues for convenience.
  • Vendors do not accept credit cards, so having cash on hand is essential for buying street food and items from stalls.
  • Always be respectful of local customs and etiquette. Davao City is known for its strict rules and regulations, so it’s important to be a responsible and respectful visitor.

Recommendation

If you’re looking for more activities and dining options to try when visiting Mindanao, you should check:

How to get there?

Via Public Transportation

  • From Manila, take a domestic flight going to Davao International Airport.
  • Look for jeepneys with routes that pass through or near Roxas Avenue. These routes may vary, so you can ask locals or visit a nearby transport terminal to find the right jeepney. Some jeepneys might have signs indicating their destination. Ensure you board a jeepney that goes in the direction of Roxas Avenue.
  • Hailing a taxi in Davao City is a convenient option. Inform the taxi driver that you want to go to Roxas Night Market on Roxas Avenue. Taxis offer a comfortable and direct mode of transportation but may be pricier than other options.
  • Tricycles and habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) are smaller forms of transportation that can navigate through smaller streets. You can hire one to take you directly to Roxas Night Market.

Nearby Attractions and Parks:

  • People’s Park: People’s Park is a beautifully landscaped green space in Davao City, featuring a collection of sculptures, gardens, and a durian-shaped dome. It’s about a 10 to 15-minute walk (approximately 1 kilometer) from Roxas Night Market, making it a convenient stop for a leisurely stroll.
  • Davao City Hall: The Davao City Hall is a prominent government building known for its modern architecture and flag-raising ceremonies. It’s approximately 2.5 kilometers away from Roxas Night Market, and you can get there by taxi or public transportation.
  • Quezon Park: Quezon Park is a small, charming urban park near the city center. It’s about a 15-minute walk (approximately 1.5 kilometers) from Roxas Night Market, making it a convenient place to relax and enjoy a serene environment.
  • Davao Crocodile Park: If you’re interested in wildlife and conservation, the Davao Crocodile Park is a bit farther, approximately 10 kilometers from Roxas Night Market. You can reach it by taking a taxi or using ride-sharing services.
  • Dusit Thani Davao: Dusit Thani Davao is a luxury hotel located at Santa Ana Avenue, Poblacion District, Davao City. It’s approximately 3 kilometers from Roxas Night Market, and you can reach it in about 15-20 minutes by taxi or jeepney.
  • Ramon Magsaysay Park: Ramon Magsaysay Park is along CM Recto Street, Davao City. It’s around 2 kilometers from Roxas Night Market, and you can reach it by taxi or jeepney in about 10-15 minutes.
  • Gaisano Mall Davao: Gaisano Mall is located at J.P. Laurel Ave., Bajada, Davao City. It’s approximately 2 kilometers away from Roxas Night Market, and you can reach it in about 10-15 minutes by taxi or jeepney.

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