Apartment 1B at The Henry Hotel, Manila - While The Henry Hotel Manila remains an exclusive quarantine facility, you can now enjoy gourmet comfort food at Apartment 1B and request to be served at The Courtyard or one of its al fresco dining spaces like this one. You’ll love Apartment 1B’s signature comfort food in this charming, vintage ambience. Address: The Henry Hotel Manila, 2680 Harrison Street, Pasay. Contact: (02) 8807-8888. Website: thehenryhotel.com. IG: @thehenryhotel | FB: @thehenryhotelmanila.RESERVE A TABLE
Bamba Bistro - This charming neighborhood bistro showcases Chef Tina Legarda’s flair for delicious, flavorful comfort food steak au poivre with Camembert whipped potatoes, Hainanese fried chicken with egg fried rice, kecap manis, spicy sambal and scallion ginger oil. Sounds yum! Even the humble cacio e pepe will make you go wow. The al fresco space looks like mom’s tree-shaded backyard, and it’s the kind of place where you can drop by for an ice cold beer and a plate of that steak drowning in Dijon demiglace. Mmm. Address: 57 Aguirre Avenue, BF Homes, Parañaque. Contact: (02) 8519-7097. IG: @bambabistro | FB: @bambabistro.RESERVE A TABLE
The Black Pig - A quiet hit from the moment it opened, this delightful restaurant pays homage to the Iberian pork in all its glory. Experience the superb charcuterie boards with its jamon, lomo, salchichon and chorizo; the Cochinillo de Segovia, deboned suckling pig, and other delicious innovative dishes by Chef Carlos Garcia. We live in the north and this place is worth every moment of the long, very long drive south. Address: 2/F Commercenter Building, East Asia Drive, Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang. Contact: (02) 8808-1406. Website: www.theblackpigbar.com. IG: @blackpigph | FB: @theblackpigmanila.RESERVE A TABLE
Brasserie Sagana - Chef Marc Aubry serves honest French brasserie cuisine using carefully selected produce from local farmers like Cordillera strawberries or cherry tomatoes from Baguio. The perfect place to dine on beloved French classics like escargot, braised lamb shank with roasted vegetables, L’Onglet with roasted shallots and salad. Must try: the pâté platter with homemade duck foie gras, pork rillettes and more. Address: Net One Center, 3rd Avenue corner 26th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Contact: (02) 8815-8801. IG: @saganabgc | FB: @brasseriesagana.RESERVE A TABLE
Dr Wine Rooftop Bar - With a scenic view of the Poblacion skyline, this bistro/bar serves classic French cuisine and, with over 300 wine labels in its cellars, is one of the best places to dine and party in Makati. The place itself is minimalist, rustic and full of the personality that makes Poblacion’s hangouts so popular. We highly recommend the French oysters, the 36-hour sous vide lamb shank, and the premium line of champagnes. Address: 5921 Algier Street, Poblacion, Makati. Contact: (0917) 563-8811. IG: @drwine_rooftop | FB: @drwinerooftopRESERVE A TABLE
Flame al Fresco - 16 stories above street level, you’ll feel closer to the starry skies when dining at Flame Al Fresco in Discovery Primea. Enjoy a great selection of modern Asian cuisine created by executive chef Luis Chikiamco like pork sisig, Wagyu beef salpicao, and the Josper-grilled US rib eye izakaya, made even more perfect with cocktails and a gorgeous view of the Makati skyline. Open from Mondays to Saturdays, 4 PM to 11 PM. Seating is limited so we highly recommend reserving a table ahead. Address: 16/F Discovery Primea, Ayala Avenue, Makati. Contact: (02) 7955-8888. IG: @discoveryprimea | FB: @discoveryprimeamakati.RESERVE A TABLE
Gallery by Chele - Everything from the kitchen of Chef Chele Gonzalez reflects his passion and deep understanding of local ingredients, cooking techniques and food traditions. Whether you’re having small plates, ordering a la carte or enjoying one of his superb tasting menus. No surprise that this restaurant consistently hits the 50 Best Restaurants in Asia lists. Dishes can be customized for vegan and vegetarian options, with original cocktails that reflect the philosophy that is Gallery by Chele. Address: 5/F Clipp Center, 11th Avenue corner 39th Street, BGC, Taguig. Contact: (0917) 546-1673. IG: @gallerybychele | FB: @gallerybychele.RESERVE A TABLE
Grace Park - Margarita Forés farm-to-table restaurant remains one of the best places for a quality meal in the city. The menu reflects the chef’s passion for Filipino ingredients and Italian cuisine. Casual yet elegant, with a NYC vibe, come here for such treats as crispy Negros organic lechon, handmade fettuccine with carabao butter and local pancetta, or the mouthwatering muscovado beef belly. Salted red egg brazo de mercedes awaits your dessert. Address: One Rockwell West Tower, Rockwell Center, Makati. Contact: (0939) 934-7223. IG: @graceparkdining | FB: @graceparkdining.RESERVE A TABLE
Jones All Day - This stylish bistro opened in the midst of the pandemic lockdown with surprising and instant success. It serves comfort food from Filipino, French, Mexican, Thai cuisines with something for everyone. Brunch, wine and tapas, fresh baked bread, a raw juice bar and even an artisanal grocery! Best of all, Mr Jones iconic beef tapa is back on the menu and we strongly recommend you have it asap. Address: G/F Serendra Piazza, Bonifacio High Street, Taguig. IG: @jonesalldayph | FB: @jonesalldayph.RESERVE A TABLE
Kashmir - This 50-year-old restaurant has a delightful al fresco space in its BGC locale — a breezy balcony with cute LED lamps that in the evenings provide great lighting for your food shots! Menu has been updated with new items, and abbreviated so it’s easier to choose. Food is delicious, service is friendly, and really the best place to go when the craving for chicken tandoori hits. Address: Level 3, One Bonifacio High Street, 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Contact: (0917) 531-6023. IG: @kashmirphilippines. RESERVE A TABLE
Khao Khai - With kitschy charm that will remind you of the working class eateries in Bangkok’s streets, a clue that you’re about to get an authentic, honest-to-goodness Thai dining experience. A great place for casual fun dining, come here for the Gai Tod, Bangkok streetcart style fried chicken, but you can also have it Chiang Mai style with som tam and sticky rice. Gai Yang, Northern Thai isan barbecue chicken. Gaeng Hung Lay, a herbaceous Northern Thai pork curry with Burmese roots. And the Yam Kai Dao, thai fried egg salad. With branches in Makati, Quezon City, and SM Mall of Asia. IG: khaokhaiph | FB: @khaokhaiph.RESERVE A TABLE
Kiwami Food Hall - Four Japanese masters in one space. Here’s where to dine on the signature Japanese classics including Ippudo’s signature ramen, Hannosuke tempura, Yabu’s katsu, and Yakitori Hachibei for, well, yakitori. Designed by Tokyo architectural firm Studio MYU, the space is classy and refined with textured woods, navy blue noren, and plenty of al fresco seating. Address: C3 Bonifacio High Street Central, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Contact: (0919) 074-4541. IG: @kiwamifoodhall | FB: @kiwamifoodhall.RESERVE A TABLE
La Picara - With its playful approach to traditional Iberian cuisine, La Picara has been described as “a modern taste of Spain kissing Manila.” And if that doesn’t pique your tastebuds, then we don’t know what will! Instead of the usual Spanish fare, come here for Asian-Spanish dishes like kimchi croquetas, chili crab paella (yum!), or the Cachopo — lightly-breaded tenderloin strips filled with jamon Iberico and manchego cheese then topped with blue cheese sauce. My gosh, are we hungry! Address: 2/F One Bonifacio High Street Mall, 5th Avenue corner 28th Street, BGC, Taguig. Contact: (0927) 172-4480. Website: lapicara.ph. IG: @lapicaraph | FB: @lapicaraph.RESERVE A TABLE
Las Casas Filipinas de Azucar - Quezon City - This beautiful 18th century Spanish-Filipino house is a museum and events space that houses two restaurants (and a third opening soon). Kusina ni Maria serves a contemporary take on Filipino classics, while La Bella is a dramatic space serving Italian cuisine. Drop by for the Tour & Dine Package that allows the best views of the heritage plaza while enjoying Pinoy merienda. Or arrange for the Chef’s Specials: a four-course menu. Live entertainment is available at The Plaza every evening. Address: 134 Roosevelt Avenue, Quezon City. Contact: (0917) 136-6796. Website: www.lascasasqc.com. IG: @lascasasqc | FB: @lascasasqc.RESERVE A TABLE
Lemuria - Always present in Manila’s most romantic restaurants lists, this fine dining restaurant serves a sophisticated French-Mediterranean cuisine with superb wines. A refined Old World elegance permeates the experience of dining here. Address: 5 Julieta Circle, Horseshoe Village, Quezon City. Contact: (0927) 428-4202. Website: www.lemuria.com.ph. IG: @lemuriafinedining | FB: @lemuriagourmet.RESERVE A TABLE
Manduca - Named after the Spanish colloquial for grub or chow, this Spanish eatery is where to go for a taste of Madrid cuisine, which is more eclectic than you might think. Madrid is a melting pot, points out Chef Amado Garcia Fernandez, and so the menu has a good number of Spanish regional comfort food, as well as delicious tapas and wine. Address: G/F Commercenter Building, 31st Street corner 4th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Contact: (0917) 146-4852. IG: @manduca_mnl | FB: @manducamnl.RESERVE A TABLE
Mistral Rooftop Bar - A breezy roofdeck with a stunning view of Makati, cocktails inspired by the South of France, and access to the Provençal cuisine from elegant brasserie Mirèio, where you can also dash to in case it rains. One of our all-time favorite places in the metro. Address: 10/F Raffles Makati. 1 Raffles Drive, Makati. Contact: (02) 7795-1840. IG: @mireioatraffles | FB: @mireioatraffles.RESERVE A TABLE
The Nest Dining in the Sky - Hovering at 31 storeys above the city, Vivere Hotel’s iconic rooftop bar and restaurant has the most breathtaking view of the south. It’s a magical place especially in the evenings, where you can dine on a rich selection of international cuisine and handcrafted cocktails. Best of all, the restaurant even has cozy corners for intimate dining even as you gaze at that view. Open daily from 4 PM to 11 PM, we recommend making reservations ahead. Address: Vivere Hotel, 5102 Bridgeway Avenue, Filinvest City, Alabang. Contact: (0917) 804-3257. Website: viverehotel.com.ph/dine. IG: @viverehotel | FB: @viverehotel.RESERVE A TABLE
Ninyo Fusion Cuisine & Wine Lounge - Garden gazebos with romantic draping make the perfect venue for cozy, intimate dining. The menu is a beautiful fusion of Japanese and European cuisines, with such popular dishes as risotto oysters, truffle mushroom soup and, naturally, steak. A well curated wine list and may we just recommend the chocolate cake? Address: 66 Esteban Abada Street, Loyola Heights, Quezon City. Contact: (02) 8426-0301 or (0939) 921-5881. IG: @ninyofusion | FB: @ninyofusion.RESERVE A TABLE
Nobu - Experience an expertly curated 8-course seasonal menu, Nobu-style, available for the whole month of September. Or indulge in the Wagyu steaks, oysters and sushi at the popular brunch buffet available every Sunday. The floating cabanas are especially enjoyable in the cool evening hours, but at any time of day, you can expect Nobu to deliver a sophisticated and delicious Japanese-Peruvian dining experience. Address: Level 1, Nobu North Tower, City of Dreams Manila, Asean Avenue, Parañaque. Contact: (02) 8691-2882. IG: @noburestaurantmanila | FB: @nobumanila.RESERVE A TABLE
Old Swiss Inn - This charming al fresco patio is the perfect spot for raclette, fondue (cheese, chocolate or meat), and all the signature dishes of this beloved restaurant. We absolutely love the Reuben sandwiches, pork gnagi, mesquite-smoked bacon and the signature corned beef! Drown these with craft beer or sangria and don’t leave without picking up a few choice @pinkiesfarm products from the mini “deli.” Address: Somerset Olympia Building, Makati Avenue, Makati. Contact: (02) 8818-8251. Website: www.oldswissinn.com. IG: @oldswissinn | FB: @oldswissinnrestaurant.RESERVE A TABLE
Pool House at Grand Hyatt Manila - With shaded and open-air dining areas plus poolside gazebos, this is a great place for everything from family weekend lunches to more intimate dining. The specialty are the grilled meats and barbecues, though an international cuisine is available. A special Weekend Barbecue Menu is worth waking up for — premium meats and seafood fresh from the grill, with cocktails, beer or wine. Address: 6/F Grand Hyatt Manila, 8th Avenue corner 35th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Contact: (02) 8838-1234. IG: @grandhyattmanilaph.RESERVE A TABLE
Prologue - For fun, casual dining head to Prologue where Chef Hiroyuki Meno serves up a leveled up version of comfort food with everything made from scratch, from the house-made bacon to the excellent coffee. The breakfast menu is a travelogue that show snippets of his life in France, Indonesia and Japan. We adore the soufflé pancakes and cocotte dishes best of all. Address: Scout Gandia, Tomas Morato, Quezon City. Contact: (0961) 379-9889. A newer branch opened at Greenhills Shopping Center. IG: @prologue.ph.RESERVE A TABLE
Rustic Mornings by Isabelo - A nourishing haven of breakfast and brunch specialties served in a lush green garden, the all-day brunch menu will tempt you to linger. Must tries include the homemade buttermilk pancakes, beef tapa and Ilocos bagnet, and the huge breakfast platters (French toast, bacon and sausage, anyone?) We also love the elegant toasts topped with anything from herbed shrimp salad to roasted peaches with whipped cream, cheese and thyme. Address: 11 Isabelo Mendoza Street, San Roque, Marikina. Contact: (0917) 700-5810. IG: @rusticmornings | FB: @rusticmornings.RESERVE A TABLE
Samba - This breathtaking poolside venue is the perfect place to partake of the adventurous flavors of Peru, as created by Chef Carlo Huerta. As he explains it, Peruvian cuisine brings together 500 years of influences from Spanish, African, Japanese, Chinese and European cultures. Order your favorite tiraditos, anticuchos, ceviche with leche de tigre and arroz con mariscos, aka Peruvian paella. Address: 8/F Shangri-La The Fort, 30th Street corner 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Contact: (02) 8200-0888. IG: @samba.mnl | FB: @sambamanila.RESERVE A TABLE
Spices Garden at The Peninsula Manila - Set in a lush tropical garden with a view of the outdoor pool, here’s where to go for the flavors of Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Sri Lanka and India. Savor signature dishes like Yum Pla Duk Fu (crispy catfish salad), Asam Goreng (beef short ribs with tamarind sauce), or Nali Rogan Josh (aromatic lamb shank). Vegan and vegetarian options are available, as is the Naturally Peninsula plant-based menu. Open Wednesdays to Mondays for lunch and dinner. Address: The Peninsula Manila, Ayala Avenue corner Makati Avenue, Makati. Contact: (02) 8887-2888. IG: @thepeninsulamanila | FB: @thepeninsulamanila.RESERVE A TABLE
Sunset Bar’s Food Truck at Sofitel - Indulge in an epicurean dinner buffet of grilled specialties and the best Filipino street food prepared à la minute, all while enjoying the fresh evening breeze and a grand view of Manila Bay. We especially love the smokehouse-grilled meats like bellychon, sausages, smoked salmon, pork ribs with free flowing beer, wine, iced tea and soda. Open Thursdays to Sundays, 6 PM to 9:30 PM. Address: Sofitel Manila, CCP Complex Roxas Boulevard, Pasay. Contact: (02) 8832-6988. IG: @sofitelmanila | FB: @sofitelmanila.RESERVE A TABLE
The Loggia at Palacio de Memoria - Come here for the romantic Old World ambience and the elegant Italian-Filipino cuisine conceptualized by Margarita Forés, who was recognized as Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016. The menu reflects the chef’s advocacy for Filipino flavors and ingredients and her expertise in Italian cuisine, producing unique and oh-so-delicious dishes. The perfect spot for everything from romantic date nights to Sunday al fresco brunches. Address: 95 Roxas Boulevard, Parañaque. Contact: (0997) 799-8187 or (02) 8253-3994. IG: @thloggiaatpalacio | FB: @theloggiaatpalacio.RESERVE A TABLE
The Penthouse 8747 - Escape into the art deco era through this chic lounge inspired by The Great Gatsby. The rooftop space overlooks Ayala Triangle Gardens. They serve superb steaks, flatbread pizzas and a very crispy pork sisig. Watch out for the new menu set to be unveiled soon. And the whisky collection deserves special attention. Closed on Sundays. Address: 8757 Paseo de Roxas, Makati. Contact: (0917) 801-0655. Website: www.paseoopenthouse.com. IG: @thepenthouse8747 | FB: @thepenthouse8747.RESERVE A TABLE
Tiago’s - The culinary playground of The Black Pig’s Chef Carlos Garcia and Chef Jon Fonseca, this fine dining restaurant in Alabang serves a superb tasting menu that will take you on a delicious adventure. Dinner, says the chef, should be an experience. And tasting some of their fantastic flavor combinations, we say dinner is an epiphany, too! Open Tuesdays to Saturdays, strictly by reservation only. Address: Somerset Hotel Alabang, Filinvest City, Alabang. Contact: (0917) 143-6447. Website: tiagosrestaurant.com. IG: @tiagosalabang | FB: @tiagosalabang.RESERVE A TABLE
Wildflour Rockwell - Imagine eggs Benedict and steak with kimchi fried rice in a spacious, homey outdoor space where you can people watch and linger over the latest gossip with friends? There’s a reason Wildflour’s Rockwell branch is a go-to brunch spot. It’s lovely in the evenings, too. The BGC, Salcedo, Rada, The Podium, Uptown and Greenhills branches have outdoor dining, too. For list of branches, click on the link below. IG: @wildflourmanila.RESERVE A TABLE
Wolfgang Steakhouse - Even al fresco dining gets the full white tablecloth treatment at this world famous steakhouse. Come here to savor the succulent dry-aged beef cooked to perfection. With a classic cocktail or, yes, a whisky! By the way, the Seafood Platter is not to be missed — steamed lobster, shrimp and lump crabmeat served with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges. With branches at Newport World Resorts, The Podium Ortigas, and BGC. IG: @wolfgangsteakhouseph | FB: @wolfgangsteakhouseph.RESERVE A TABLE
