The 12 Best Al Fresco Restaurants In Manila For Small, Intimate Celebrations
Where to go for safe, socially distant get togethers
While quarantine remains a way of life in Metro Manila, there are places that allow you to celebrate in small, intimate groups. We are sharing our curated list of 12 al fresco treasures. All these places offer fresh air, exquisite food, and that extra little something that spell the difference just okay and truly special. Whether you’re looking for coziness, a poolside retreat, a lush garden… here are the urban escapes you can find just around you.
Please do remember that the city is still in lockdown, and strict measures must be taken to make sure everyone stays safe and healthy. If you’re planning to dine out, it’s best to find out in advance about the restaurant’s safety and hygiene protocols and policies. And since tables are limited, please make your reservations in advance.
Check back on us, as we will continue to update this list as new al fresco spaces open up. Dine safe!
Open Air Treasures
Open Air Treasures
The Loggia at Palacio de Memoria
Fresh air, wide open spaces, and a romantic Old World ambience make Margarita Forés new al fresco space one of our favorite urban retreats. The menu is described as modern Italian, and includes such items as a selection of Negros burrata served with sourdough squares and Italian seasalt, a tightly curated selection of antipasti, pasta, and mains. Dessert includes a Lemon-Olive Torta made with candied lemon and limoncello, or Mango-Prosecco Tiramisu. The menu is also available for takeaway or delivery. Open from Tuesdays to Sundays, but please do book your table in advance. Call (0917) 717-9654, (0917) 711-3714, email theloggia@margaritafores.com. Address: Palacio de Memoria, 95 Roxas Boulevard, Parañaque.
Photo Credit: The Loggia at the Palacio
Gallery by Chele
Dine al fresco at the outdoor deck converted into this relaxed space surrounded by an urban garden with a view of the BGC skyline. There are dining tables of different sizes to accomodate couples or bigger groups. The dining experience remains the same: you get to choose between the tasting menus or the a la carte menu. Open from Tuesdays to Sundays. Call (0917) 546-1673, email reservations@gallerybychele.com, and follow @gallerybychele on Instagram or Facebook. Address: Clipp Center, 11th Avenue corner 39th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
Photo Credit: Gallery by Chele
Old Swiss Inn
Enjoy fondue or raclette in this charming al fresco terrace. Refresh yourself with craft beer or chilled wine, and order the restaurant's signature dishes (we love the pork gnagi). There are bike racks next to the security guards, so convenient for folks who want to drop by after a spot of exercise. Make sure to check out the tiny ‘deli’ for Pinkie’s Farm dairy products, fresh produce, and ready-to-eat meals. To order, check out @oldswissinn on Instagram or call (02) 8818-8251, or order online at www.oldswissinn.com.Address: Somerset Olympia Building, Makati Avenue, Makati City (beside The Peninsula Manila).
Photo Credit: Old Swiss Inn
Dusit Thani Manila
Dine at the newly opened patio that goes all the way from The Pantry to the Umu deck. You can enjoy all the specialties from Benjarong, The Pantry and Umu amid a lush green garden. Call (02) 7238-8888, follow @dusitthani.manila on Instagram or @dusitthanimanila on Facebook. Address: Ayala Center, Makati City.
Photo Credit: Dusit Thani Manila
Hola Bombón
We’ve missed hanging out in one of our favorite haunts in Poblacion, so it’s good news that they’ve opened an outdoor terraza where social distancing is strictly observed — only two guests at a table! Hola Bombón serves up the amazing flavors of San Sebastian, Spain. Head there for superb tapas and pintxos, paella, and cocktails. From 5 to 7 PM, Wednesdays to Sundays, is La Hora Felix (aka happy hour), when you can get 25% off special pintxos. Seating is very limited, so reserve your table in advance. Call (0917) 520-1880, (02) 7504-2977, send a DM to @hola.bombonph on Instagram, or reserve online at www.holabombon.com. Address: 2/F 5887 Fermina corner Enriquez Streets, Poblacion, Makati.
Photo Credit: Hola Bombón
Hola Bombón
We love the way they've arranged the al fresco area to include charming corners like this one.
Photo Credit: Hola Bombón
Toyo Eatery
Recently named Best Restaurant in the Philippines by the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants award-giving body, it’s time to revisit this place. The outdoor dining area has a roof, so you won’t have to worry about summer drizzles. Reservations required. Check out @toyoeatery on Instagram, or call (0917) 720-8630. Address: The Alley at Karrivin, Pasong Tamo Extension, Makati.
Photo Credit: Toyo Eatery
The 6th Manila, Novotel
If you’re looking for a relaxing poolside setting, The 6th Pool and Bar Lounge at Novotel Manila is the place to be. Sip on your favorite cocktail while you dine on signature dishes from The Food Exchange’s kitchens. Or you might simply want to just drive by and make a quick stop at the Indulge Pop-Up Cart for some freshly baked pastries and the best selling homemade gelato. Call (02) 8990-7888, (0998) 841-8972 or check out @novotelmanilaaranetacity on Instagram. Address: Novotel Manila Araneta City, General Aguinaldo Avenue, Araneta Center, Quezon City
Photo Credit: Novotel Manila
Nobu Manila
These open-air floating cabanas are the perfect place for small, intimate parties. Dine on Nobu’s famous Japanese-Peruvian cuisine. May we suggest the Omakase featured course of the month? Call (02) 8800-8080 and follow @noburestaurantmanila on Instagram.
Photo Credit: Nobu Manila
S Maison at Conrad Manila
The spacious veranda has this stunning view of Manila Bay. Enjoy exclusive dining packages from a curated selection of food establishments, including Paradise Dynasty, XO 46 Heritage Bistro, and Tsujiri. Check out @SMaisonConradManila on Facebook or @smaison_conrad on Instagram. Address: Marina Way, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City, Manila
Photo Credit: S Maison at Conrad Manila
Wolfgang Steakhouse
We love the charming setup, white tablecloths and all. We love anticipating the superb USDA Prime Dry-Aged Steaks with a side of the signature mashed potatoes and spinach. There isn’t anything we don’t love about al fresco dining at Wolfgang’s. Al fresco dining available only in Podium, BGC, and the Alabang West Pop Up. Check out @wolfgangsteakhouseph for details.
Photo Credit: Wolfgang Steakhouse
Blackbird at the Nielson Tower
Set in what was once an airport terminal, Chef Colin Mackay’s Blackbird is famous for its travel-inspired menu, signature cocktails, house-made ice creams. The al fresco dining space has an open wooden deck and covered terrace surrounded by lush greenery. Call (02) 8828-4888, (0917) 889-2782, check out @blackbirdatthenielsontower on Instagram, or visit blackbird.com.ph. Address: Ayala Triangle, Makati Avenue, Makati.
Photo Credit: Blackbird at the Nielson Tower
Apartment 1B at The Henry Hotel
We love the retro charm of The Henry Hotel, with its beautiful gardens, serene verandas and Chef Marivic Diaz-Lim’s restaurant with its time-tested comfort food. Grab a table on the veranda or courtyard, soak in the atmosphere, enjoy your favorite dishes. Open for weekend brunch. Call (0917) 631-5647, check out @thehenryhotel on Instagram. Address: 2680 Harrison Street, Pasay City.
Photo Credit: @pink_aloe
Lead photo: The Loggia at Palacio de Memoria, Nobu Manila, S Maison at Conrad Manila
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