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KimchiHelping You Find the Best
  • 10 Best Kimchi in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 1
  • 10 Best Kimchi in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 2
  • 10 Best Kimchi in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 3
  • 10 Best Kimchi in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 4
  • 10 Best Kimchi in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 5

10 Best Kimchi in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian

The ever-reliable side dish of Koreans, kimchi, has found its way into Filipino refs everywhere. Whether it's because of your KDrama binge or the strong influence from your K-Pop idols, more Filipinos are discovering how great kimchi pairs with local dishes. It no longer has to be a samgyeopsal night for families to bring out this side dish.


There are many reasons why kimchi makes for a great addition to your weekly grocery list. It brings an instant nutrient boost to your every meal, it is easy to store and lasts long, and of course, it's tasty. But not all kimchis are created equal! Here are the 10 best ones you can buy online. Also, don't miss out on our buying guide fact-checked and reviewed by registered nutritionist-dietitian Samantha Morales!

Last updated 07/14/2023

Quick List - Top Kimchi

1

Mama Lee's

Kimchi
Kimchi

Authentic Kimchi for 20 Years Running

2

Happyfoods

Homemade Cabbage Kimchi
Homemade Cabbage Kimchi

From Your Favorite Korean Restaurants

3

Appa Kim

Baechu Kimchi
Baechu Kimchi

Whole Kimchi That Stays Fresh

4

Sijang Mart

Fresh Home-made Moosaengchae
Fresh Home-made Moosaengchae

Homemade Kimchi From a Trusted K-Mart

5

Hey Kimchee

Baek Kimchi
Baek Kimchi

Fermented Goodness Without the Heat

Samantha Morales
Expert
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Samantha Morales

Samantha began her career in clinical nutrition and weight management at a tertiary hospital in Manila, Philippines. Her practice allowed her to give nutrition counseling and plan modified diets for patients with medical conditions. Presently, she does private practice to focus on true holistic wellness - an approach that believes in aligning one's mind, body, and spiritual well-being.

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Editorial Team
Guide
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Editorial Team

Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.

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The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

How to Choose Kimchi - Buying Guide

Here are some key points to consider:

  1. Pick the type of kimchi ingredient you like best.
  2. Choose the spice level you can tolerate.
  3. Consider the packaging for your storage.
  4. Check the delivery and payment options.

For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.

1

Pick the Type of Kimchi Ingredient You Like Best

The kimchi we are most familiar with is the variant that is made with cabbage. This is also the option that is widely available in the market. But there are also other options that are worth considering for their texture and flavors.

Traditional Kimchi Uses Cabbage

Traditional Kimchi Uses Cabbage

Baechu kimchi, or kimchi made with Chinese cabbage, is top of mind whenever you mention this side dish. The cabbages are salted and rinsed, then flavored with red pepper flakes and aromatics, such as ginger, garlic, and onions. It can be eaten newly made where the flavors are fresh and crisp, or fermented where it becomes sourer.

Spring Onion Kimchi Kicks in Extra Flavor

Spring Onion Kimchi Kicks in Extra Flavor

If you are a fan of the zest and zing of spring onion, try its type of kimchi. It retains the earthy, grassy flavor of the onion, but is made even better with the hot pepper spice. There’s a slight crunch with every bite and it gives an additional flavor to your fried ulam.

Cubed Radish Kimchi Has a Crisp Bite

Cubed Radish Kimchi Has a Crisp Bite

Kkakdugi kimchi is made from cubed Korean radish. These are the large, bulbous kind of radish that holds liquid well. While preparation is just the same as baechu kimchi, a lot of people prefer this because of its juiciness and crunch. This makes it the perfect side dish for any meat soup.

2

Choose the Spice Level You Can Tolerate

Choose the Spice Level You Can Tolerate

One of the main ingredients of kimchi is red hot pepper, which is mainly responsible for that kick of spice. Some variants, however, are spicier than the rest. It is best to check the label or ask the seller about the spice level of the kimchi you are getting—from mild to extra spicy.


If you want to have a taste of kimchi without the spice, this is entirely possible. Give baek kimchi or white kimchi a try. This is made without chili pepper powder and tastes mild and clean. This is a great option for kids who want to try kimchi for the first time.

3

Consider the Packaging for Your Storage

As much as your family may love kimchi, not everyone might agree with the smell. It leaves a strong impression inside your ref - which is why some Korean families have a separate refrigerator dedicated to just kimchi. If you don’t have that luxury, check the packaging of what you’re about to order.

Most Kimchi Come in a Pouch

Most Kimchi Come in a Pouch

A lot of store-bought varieties come in a pouch. This is a good option if you are planning to consume the kimchi right away. If you have a little bit leftover from your meal, seal it well before storing it inside your ref, and get ready for the pungent smell of kimchi every time you open your fridge!

Homemade Kimchi Are Usually Stored in a Plastic Container

Homemade Kimchi Are Usually Stored in a Plastic Container

Most home-based stores their kimchi in plastic containers. These hold well and can preserve your batch a little longer than the pouches do. This is a great option if you are planning on keeping the kimchi for a longer time. You can put a plastic wrap over it to contain the smell. 

Kimchi in a Jar Lasts Longer

Kimchi in a Jar Lasts Longer

If you are looking to store kimchi for a long time inside your ref, it is best to go for the ones that come in a jar. These tend to preserve the kimchi longest compared to pouches and plastic containers. It also helps in preserving the flavors of your side dish. Another bonus is that it contains the smell best.

4

Check Delivery and Payment Options

Check Delivery and Payment Options

If you are purchasing from a home-based seller, it is best to find out if they need a lead time before you can get your kimchi. Check the best way of getting in touch with the seller—may it be by phone, sending a direct message to their Instagram and Facebook page, or through e-mail. Have a list of questions you might have for the product you are about to purchase.


The most common questions include payment and delivery options. Find out if they accept payments made through E-wallets, online banking or if it's only cash on delivery. Don't forget to ask about your delivery options, if you need to book your own or if they can make these arrangements for you.

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10 Best Kimchi to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Mama Lee's

Kimchi

Mama Lee's  Kimchi 1

Authentic Kimchi for 20 Years Running

2

Happyfoods

Homemade Cabbage Kimchi

Happyfoods  Homemade Cabbage Kimchi 1

From Your Favorite Korean Restaurants

3

Appa Kim

Baechu Kimchi

Appa Kim  Baechu Kimchi 1

Whole Kimchi That Stays Fresh

4

Sijang Mart

Fresh Home-made Moosaengchae

Sijang Mart  Fresh Home-made Moosaengchae 1

Homemade Kimchi From a Trusted K-Mart

5

Hey Kimchee

Baek Kimchi

Hey Kimchee Baek Kimchi 1

Fermented Goodness Without the Heat

6

Tita Adah's

Homemade Kimchi

Tita Adah's  Homemade Kimchi 1

Delicious Kimchi That Doesn't Hold Back on Spice

7

Hey Kimchee

Pa Kimchi

Hey Kimchee  Pa Kimchi 1

Delectable Sweet and Earthy Kimchi

8

L' Shef

Kimchi

L' Shef Kimchi 1

Give Your Snacks a Kimchi Upgrade

9

Chingoo Asian Deli

Kkakdugi Kimchi

Chingoo Asian Deli  Kkakdugi Kimchi 1

Tangy, Sweet, and Mildly Spicy Kimchi

10

Ceci Korean Grocery

Premium Spring Onion Kimchi

Ceci Korean Grocery Premium Spring Onion Kimchi 1

Premium Kimchi With Premium Health Benefits

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Mama Lee's
Kimchi

Kimchi 1
Source:instagram.com
Kimchi 2
Source:instagram.com
Reference price
₱180
Mid
Reference price
₱180
Mid

Authentic Kimchi for 20 Years Running

Long before the Hallyu craze took over the country by storm, television host Grace Lee's eomma's kimchi has been the go-to of K-food lovers in Manila. Mama Lee's kimchi is made with a Korean mother's love and is as authentic as they get. They also source quality ingredients directly from Baguio farmers to ensure freshness.


This kimchi is pungent, sour, and spicy—the perfect fusion of smell and taste that any good kimchi should have. The brine from the fish sauce and shrimp paste also gives off an addicting funky and salty flavor. If you're a vegetarian, worry not, as the store offers a fish sauce and shrimp paste-free option that you're sure to enjoy!

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No.2

Happyfoods
Homemade Cabbage Kimchi

Reference price
₱200
Mid

From Your Favorite Korean Restaurants

If you miss the kimchi from popular Korean restaurants Sariwon Korean Barbecue, Soban K-Town Grill, and Sibyullee Unlimited Korean BBQ, then look no further. The group behind your favorite places to satisfy your Korean fix now delivers their kimchi straight to your home!


What makes this kimchi stand out is its well-balanced flavors. It is both tangy and salty, sweet yet spicy. It gives you all the goodness that all your favorite K-Drama actor savor on-screen. Order now and get restaurant-quality sides to go with your humble home-cooked dinner!

No.3

Appa Kim
Baechu Kimchi

Baechu Kimchi 1
Source:instagram.com
Baechu Kimchi 2
Source:instagram.com
Reference price
₱200
Mid
Reference price
₱200
Mid

Whole Kimchi That Stays Fresh

Prepare to be wowed by Appa (Korean for dad) Kim's family recipe. Their kimchi is made-to-order and uses imported Korean spices to go with fresh local produce, so you're guaranteed quality, authentic salty, spicy, and sour kimchi every time. 


The baechu kimchi is sold whole to preserve the cabbage's freshness. According to Appa Kim, cut cabbage releases more liquid, thus speeding up fermentation. Nevertheless, you can always ask them to pre-cut your order if that's what you prefer. Enjoy kimchi prepared with Appa's love!

No.4

Sijang Mart
Fresh Home-made Moosaengchae

Reference price
₱169.95
Low Mid
Reference price
₱169.95
Low Mid

Homemade Kimchi From a Trusted K-Mart

A lot of Korean marts sell commercially-made kimchi, but it's always a gem when you find one that sells homemade kimchi. This product's perfect seasoning blend of chili powder, garlic, ginger, and salted seafood packs a lot of flavor and really elevates the taste of the radish.


One bonus to purchasing your kimchi from this store is that you have a one-stop-shop for all your Korean grocery needs. You can easily purchase ingredients for your kimchi jjigae or your favorite ramyeon dish in one go. It's highly convenient, and you even get to save on delivery fees!

No.5

Hey Kimchee
Baek Kimchi

Reference price
₱180
Mid

Fermented Goodness Without the Heat

If you aren't one for spicy food but still want to taste kimchi, then this product is perfect for you. Hey Kimchee's baek (white) kimchi is a non-spicy, cabbage kimchi that's great for when you're craving that funky fermented taste but can't handle heat.


This kimchi is seasoned in a salty brine mixed with pears, apples, and Korean radish. What you get is a mild, fruity, and refreshing kimchi that even children, the elderly, and people who have issues with spicy food can enjoy! Not to mention, it's also a fun alternative for spicy kimchi lovers looking for a change of pace.

No.6

Tita Adah's
Homemade Kimchi

Homemade Kimchi 1
Source:instagram.com
Homemade Kimchi 2
Source:instagram.com
Reference price
₱420
High
Reference price
₱420
High

Delicious Kimchi That Doesn't Hold Back on Spice

Perfect for spice lovers looking for that extra strong kick out of their kimchi, Tita Adah's kimchi is tangy, salty, and spicy. If you're planning to hold a DIY Korean BBQ party, then make sure to include this in your grocery list— your friends and family will thank you for it.


The kimchi is also stored in a jar, making for easy clean up and storage. If you can't finish it all in one sitting, simply twist the cap back on and refrigerate. What's more, it gets tastier the longer it ferments, so round two might even be better than round one!

No.7

Hey Kimchee
Pa Kimchi

Pa Kimchi 1
Source:instagram.com
Pa Kimchi 2
Source:instagram.com
Reference price
₱250
High Mid
Reference price
₱250
High Mid

Delectable Sweet and Earthy Kimchi

Spice up and elevate even the blandest of dishes with this kimchi. The slim and tender green onions make this kimchi a tad sweeter, while the sesame seeds add an interesting texture. It has a fuller flavor than baechu or cabbage kimchi and you can expect the taste to linger in your mouth.


This kimchi pairs excellently with simple fried dishes—whether pork, chicken, or fish— as they lend the dish an exciting boost of flavor and crunch. The spice from the onions is also milder than you would expect. Just make sure to have extra-strength toothpaste on standby to freshen up your breath after eating.

No.8

L' Shef
Kimchi

Kimchi 1
Source:instagram.com
Kimchi 2
Source:instagram.com
Reference price
₱135
Low
Reference price
₱135
Low

Give Your Snacks a Kimchi Upgrade

Kimchi is such a versatile side dish. It can be paired with meals, a cold drink, and even snacks! L'Shef, the creator of this amazing kimchi, recommends eating their kimchi with nacho chips for an unexpected yet delicious snack


Aside from upping your snack game, this kimchi also lets you help small, local communities. L'Shef donates a portion of each product sold to local farmers and fishers. You get a scrumptious, versatile side dish, and our local workers get a nice little bonus—it's a win for everybody!

No.9

Chingoo Asian Deli
Kkakdugi Kimchi

Kkakdugi Kimchi 1
Source:instagram.com
Reference price
₱185
Mid
Reference price
₱185
Mid

Tangy, Sweet, and Mildly Spicy Kimchi

Korean ramyeon is best when you eat it with a side of kimchi. This kkakdugi or Korean radish kimchi from Chingoo Asian Deli pairs beautifully with your ramyeon of choice. Slurp on the soup and some noodles then take a bite of radish kimchi for that extra bit of texture and flavor!


This kimchi is tangy and spicy, but the sweetness of the radish makes for a well-balanced flavor. The green onions are a great touch for a bit of color and a hint of earthy flavor. If you're looking for an alternative to plain ol' baechu kimchi, then you've found it.

No.10

Ceci Korean Grocery
Premium Spring Onion Kimchi

Premium Spring Onion Kimchi 1
Source:food.grab.com
Reference price
₱300
High Mid
Reference price
₱300
High Mid

Premium Kimchi With Premium Health Benefits

Aside from the usual probiotics, spring onions in this kimchi boast health benefits like no other. It has antibacterial properties, can lower blood sugar levels, boost cardiovascular health, and keep your eyesight in tip-top shape.


This delicious homemade kimchi is homemade and supplied by Ceci Korean Grocery, a carrier of other authentic Korean goodies such as vegetables, spices, snacks, and side dishes. If you're worried about authenticity and taste, you can rest assured that their kimchi is as Korean as kimchi gets

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.

Is It Okay to Eat Kimchi When Pregnant?

Yes, but with caution. While kimchi contains probiotics and other good bacteria, it can also harbor harmful bacteria and toxins. We recommend that you get kimchi from a store that practices good food safety. We also suggest staying away from DIY or homemade kimchi as they are usually at a higher risk of unsafe food handling.


Note that there are two kinds of kimchi: pasteurized and unpasteurized. The former uses heat to eliminate all bacteria, while the latter uses no heat but is susceptible to pathogens. When eating unpasteurized kimchi, we recommend cooking it into a stew or fried rice at a temperature not lower than 145°F to kill off any contaminants.

How Much Kimchi To Eat In A Day?

Luckily, there is no real limit to how much kimchi you can eat in a day. Experts recommend eating around 1-2 servings or about 100 grams per day to maximize kimchi's health benefits. Just remember that kimchi can sometimes be very salty, and too much might pump up your blood pressure or even harm your kidney.

Will Kimchi Spoil?

The short answer is yes, kimchi spoils. When left open at room temperature, kimchi can go bad in as little as 2-3 days or a week, at best. When refrigerated and stored properly, it can last up to 3-6 months or even a year. Store-bought kimchis typically have a best-before or use-by date that you can use to gauge how long your kimchi will last.


Additionally, kimchi gets softer and sourer the longer you keep it around. The change in taste and texture might throw you off, but as long as there's no mold or if it doesn't have a distinctly spoiled smell, then it's fine to eat. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and get yourself a new batch of kimchi.

Author: Laura Mercado

Editor and Re-editor: Ayeza Mangulabnan, Joaquin Umlas

How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.

Top 5 Kimchi

No. 1: Mama Lee's Kimchi

No. 2: Happyfoods Homemade Cabbage Kimchi

No. 3: Appa Kim Baechu Kimchi

No. 4: Sijang Mart Fresh Home-made Moosaengchae

No. 5: Hey KimcheeBaek Kimchi

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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