Manila boasts a remarkable array of dining options, catering to all tastes and palates. From vibrant street food stalls to exquisite fine dining establishments, the city presents a captivating fusion of flavors and cuisines that is sure to please the most discerning of food connoisseurs. We will take you on a gastronomic journey through 48 of the best restaurants in Manila, showcasing Filipino classics, fusion delights, and international cuisine. Whether you’re craving traditional Filipino dishes like chicken inasal and garlic rice or looking for innovative dining experiences, we’ve got you covered. From the bustling streets of Quezon City to the upscale neighborhood of Legazpi Village, we will highlight notable restaurants such as Jordy Navarra’s internationally acclaimed Toyo Eatery and the outdoor seating paradise of Karrivin Plaza. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds as we showcase the delicious food, stunning ambience, and impeccable service that these dining destinations have to offer.
Why Visit Manila?
Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, is a vibrant and diverse city that offers a wide range of experiences for visitors. Whether you’re a food lover, an adventure seeker, or a history buff, Manila has something for everyone. Here are the top reasons why you should consider visiting Manila:
1. Rich History: Manila has a fascinating history that dates back to the Spanish colonial era. Explore historic sites such as Intramuros, the old walled city, and the National Museum to learn about the country’s past.
2. Delicious Food: Manila is a food lover’s paradise. From traditional Filipino dishes to international cuisines, there are endless options to satisfy your cravings. Visit the famous food stalls in Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown, or dine in one of the many dining restaurants in Poblacion area, Makati.
3. Convenient Location: The Poblacion area in Makati is an ideal location for accommodation options in Manila. It offers easy access to the city’s attractions, as well as a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and clubs.
4. Two Seasons: Manila experiences a dry season from November to April and a rainy season from May to October. The best time to visit Manila is during the dry season when the weather is more pleasant for exploring the city.
Whether you’re interested in exploring Manila’s historic sites, indulging in delicious food, or experiencing the vibrant nightlife, this bustling city has it all. Plan your trip to Manila and discover the unique charm of this Southeast Asian capital.
48 Best Restaurants in Manila
| Manila Restaurant | Name of Restaurant | Address | Website | Telephone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | M Dining + Bar M | 3/F, Alegria Alta Building, 2294 Chino Roces Ave, Makati, 1231 Metro Manila | http://mgroup.com.ph/ | +63288103565 |
 | Cafe Ilang-Ilang | Manila Hotel, 1 Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila, 0913 Metro Manila | http://manila-hotel.com.ph/cafe-ilang-ilang/ | +63285270011 |
 | Chef Jessie’s Place | 1997 Pililla St. corner Obrero Tanay, streets, Makati, Metro Manila | http://www.chefjessie.com/ | +63282540229 |
 | Sala Bistro | H22C+RXF, Makati, Metro Manila | http://salabistro.com/ | +63277294888 |
 | Blackbird Makati | 6752 1229 Makati Ave, Makati, 1229 Metro Manila | http://www.blackbird.com.ph/ | +63288284888 |
 | Arya Persian Restaurant | Zone 072, Level 2 Space 161 Robinsons Place Manila Midtown, Adriatico St, corner Pedro Gil St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila | http://aryapersianrestaurant.com/ | +63285673800 |
 | Acustica Bistro | 2nd floor, Didache Building, #1508 España Boulevard, corner Valencia, Sampaloc, Manila, Metro Manila | http://facebook.com/ACUSTICABISTRO | +639194869973 |
 | Galileo Enoteca Deli | 80 Malinao, corner Calbayog St, Mandaluyong, 1550 Metro Manila | http://galileoenoteca.ph/ | +63285344633 |
 | Asia Tatler Dining | 11th Floor, VGP Building, 6772, Ayala Avenue, Makati, 1200 Metro Manila | http://www.asiatatlerdining.com/philippines | +63288140771 |
 | Helm by Josh Boutwood | 3rd floor, Ayala triangle gardens, Makati Ave, Makati, Metro Manila | http://www.joshboutwood.net/ | +639159098647 |
 | Flame Restaurant | H23G+CR6, Makati, Metro Manila | http://www.discoveryprimea.com/bars-restaurants/flame-restaurant/ | +639175138960 |
 | Golden Fortune Seafood Restaurant | Peace Hotel, G/F, 1283 Soler St, Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila | http://www.goldenfortuneseafood.com/ | +63282442777 |
 | King Chef Seafood Restaurant | 2/F Lucky Chinatown Mall, Reina Regente St, Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila | http://www.kingchefph.com/ | +639323231871 |
 | Plaza San Luis Complex | HXQG+V52, General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila | http://intamurosadminmanila.webs.com/ | Not found. |
 | Sala Restaurant | LV Locsin Building, Podium Level, 6752 Ayala Ave, Makati, 1223 Metro Manila | http://www.salarestaurant.com/ | +63288776668 |
 | Raffaele Woodfired Pizza, The Bayleaf Hotel | The Bayleaf Intramuros, 1002 Muralla St, Intramuros, Manila, Metro Manila | http://www.thebayleaf.com.ph/ | +63253185000 |
 | 9 SPOONS – The Bayleaf Intramuros | The Bayleaf Intramuros, 9/F Muralla St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila | http://www.thebayleaf.com.ph/ | +63253185000 |
 | Causeway Seafood Restaurant | 1261 Benavidez St, Tondo, Manila, 1008 Metro Manila | https://causewayrestaurant.ph/ | +63282304871 |
 | Sincerity Restaurant | 519 Quintin Paredes, Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila | http://www.facebook.com/sincerityrestaurant.main | +63282419990 |
 | China Blue By Jereme Leung | Pasay, Metro Manila | https://eatdrinkhilton.com/china-blue-by-jereme-leung-conrad-manila/ | +63288339999 |
 | Casa Manila Patio | HXQG+Q4M, Real St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila | https://hizonscatering.com/venue/casa-manila-patio/ | +6325273135 |
 | I-TOP VIEW CAFE AND RESTAURANT | Escuela St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila | https://i-top-view-cafe-and-restaurant.business.site/?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=referral | +639165503537 |
 | Kobejonesph | Le Grand Condominium, Salcedo Village, 130 Valero, Makati, 1227 Metro Manila | https://kobejonesph.business.site/?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=referral | +639150985735 |
 | L’Eau Vive in Asia | 1499 P M Guazon, Paco, Manila, 1007 Metro Manila | https://st-peter-the-apostle-parish-to-leau-vive-in.business.site/?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=referral | +639175403423 |
 | Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant | Plaza San Luis Complex, General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila | https://www.barbaras.ph/ | +63285274083 |
 | Estoria Manila (Restaurant & Events Place) | 1125 Del Pilar St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila | https://www.estoriamanila.com/ | +639688602476 |
 | Balai Maria | Knights of Columbus, Council 1000, 1002 Beaterio St, Intramuros, Manila, Metro Manila | https://www.facebook.com/balaimaria19/ | +639557951902 |
 | Copa de Manila | Winford Manila Hotel, Cosnuelo Street, corner MJC Rd, Santa Cruz, Manila, 1014 Metro Manila | https://www.facebook.com/Copa-De-Manila-Filipino-Spanish-Cuisine-921494914709492/ | +639276620058 |
 | Ilustrado Restaurant | two-way, Cabildo Street Temporary Entrance & Exit to Ilustrado is along, Cabildo St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 | https://www.facebook.com/ilustradorestaurant/ | +63285272345 |
 | L’Opera Ristorante Italiano | The Fort Entertainment Complex 26th cor. 7th Ave., Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila | https://www.facebook.com/loperamanila/ | +63288892784 |
 | Uno Seafood Wharf Palace | 270 Escolta St, Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila | https://www.facebook.com/pages/%E7%AC%AC%E4%B8%80%E6%B5%B7%E9%AE%AE%E9%85%92%E5%AE%B6-Uno-Seafood-Wharf-Palace/179613215414833 | +63282321059 |
 | Ristorante delle Mitre | Opposite San Agustin Church, Real St, Intramuros, Manila, Metro Manila | https://www.facebook.com/ristorantedellemitre/ | +63285595220 |
 | Sky Garden By The Bay Restaurant | Metro Manila, Asean Promenade | https://www.facebook.com/skygardenbythebay/ | +639176393821 |
 | Lemuria Fine Dining | 5 Julieta Circle, Quezon City, 1112 Metro Manila | https://www.lemuria.com.ph/ | +63287245211 |
 | Old Manila at The Peninsula Manila | The Peninsula Manila Corner of Ayala and Makati Avenues Ground Level Makati, 1226 Metro Manila | https://www.peninsula.com/en/manila/hotel-fine-dining/old-manila | +63288872888 |
 | MIRÈIO | 1 Raffles Drive, Makati Ave, Makati, 1224 | https://www.raffles.com/makati/dining/mireio/ | +63277951840 |
 | Le Bar | Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, Pasay, 1300 Metro Manila | https://www.sofitelmanila.com/restaurants-bars/le-bar/ | +63285735599 |
 | Sky Deck View Bar | The Bayleaf, Muralla St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila | https://www.thebayleaf.com.ph/?utm_source=tripadvisor&utm_medium=referral | +63253185000 |
| Not found. | Roma Ristorante Italiano | Manila Hotel, 1 Rizal Park, Roxas Boulevard, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila | Not found. | +63285210011 |
| Noche: Dine in the Dark | 4L A. Venue Suites, cor Gen. Luna Sts., City, Salamanca, Makati, Metro Manila | Not found. | +639774073226 |
| Grappa’S Ristorante | 215 Nicanor Garcia, Makati, 1200 Metro Manila | Not found. | +63288957219 |
 | Manila Hotel Lobby Lounge | 1 Rizal ParkManila Philippines, 1000 | Not found. | +63285270020 |
 | The Royale Sharksfin Seafood Restaurant | Pacific Centre Building, 2/F, 460 Quintin Paredes, Binondo, Maynila, Kalakhang Maynila | Not found. | +6322447777 |
 | Felix Restaurant | unit 107/108 Ground Floor, Greenbelt 5 1410, Makati, Metro Manila | Not found. | +63277299062 |
 | Ilang-Ilang Restaurant | 551 Ilang-Ilang St, Binondo, Manila, Metro Manila | Not found. | +63282419298 |
 | Lore Manila | 3rd floor, west super block retail, One Bonifacio High Street Mall, 3rd Ave, Taguig, 1630 Metro Manila | Not found. | +639778049888 |
| Ma Maison Bistro Group Restaurant | 9780 Units B & C, Kamagong Street, San Antonio, Makati, 1203 Metro Manila | Not found. | +63288369716 |
 | Barbara’s Restaurant | HX5P+656, Ground Level CCP Building, Roxas Boulevard, CCP Complex, Pasay, 1308 Metro Manila | Not found. | +63288330680 |
Manila is known for its vibrant culinary scene, and you can find unique and special Philippine fusion dishes in various restaurants across the city. Here are some Philippine fusion dishes that blend local flavors with international influences:
- Sisig Tacos: A fusion of the traditional Filipino sisig (chopped pig’s head and liver) served in taco shells with fresh salsa, guacamole, and a tangy dressing.
- Adobo Pasta: A twist on the classic adobo, where adobo-marinated meat (usually chicken or pork) is incorporated into pasta dishes like spaghetti or fettuccine with a flavorful adobo sauce.
- Kare-Kare Pizza: A creative fusion that combines the rich peanut sauce of kare-kare with a pizza crust, often topped with bagoong (shrimp paste), vegetables, and your choice of meat.
- Sinigang Ramen: A blend of Japanese ramen and Filipino sinigang flavors, featuring a sour tamarind-based broth with ramen noodles, vegetables, and your choice of protein.
- Lumpiang Shanghai Burrito: Lumpiang Shanghai, a Filipino spring roll filled with ground pork and vegetables, is rolled up in a tortilla, creating a unique Filipino-Mexican fusion.
- Tinola Soup Dumplings: This inventive dish combines the flavors of tinola, a Filipino ginger-based chicken soup, with the concept of Chinese soup dumplings, resulting in a delightful and aromatic dumpling experience.
- Adobo Burger: A juicy burger patty infused with adobo spices, topped with adobo sauce, and served with traditional Filipino sides like atchara (pickled papaya) and banana ketchup.
- Lechon Sushi: Sushi rolls filled with succulent pieces of lechon (roast pig) and served with a dipping sauce inspired by Filipino vinegar-based condiments.
- Puto Bumbong Cheesecake: A dessert fusion that combines the flavors of the traditional Filipino puto bumbong (purple sticky rice cake) with a creamy cheesecake base, resulting in a delightful and visually appealing treat.
- Mango Adobo Chicken Wings: Crispy chicken wings glazed with a sweet and tangy mango adobo sauce, offering a delightful blend of sweet, salty, and savory flavors.
These are just a few examples of the creative and unique Philippine fusion dishes you can find in Manila.
Top 5 breakfast dishes to try in the Philippines
| Dish | Description | Best Place to Try It |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Tapsilog | Tapsilog is a popular Filipino breakfast dish consisting of tender marinated beef (tapa), garlic-fried rice (sinangag), and a fried egg (itlog). It’s a hearty and savory meal that’s sure to satisfy your morning hunger. | Best Place: Rodic’s Diner in Manila |
| 2. Champorado | Champorado is a sweet and creamy chocolate rice porridge made by cooking glutinous rice with cocoa powder and sweetened with sugar. It’s often served with dried fish (tuyo) for a sweet-savory contrast. | Best Place: Milky Way Café in Makati City |
| 3. Pandesal | Pandesal is a soft and slightly sweet Filipino bread roll that’s perfect for breakfast. It’s often paired with cheese, butter, jam, or even filled with meats and vegetables. | Best Place: Pan de Manila (multiple locations) |
| 4. Arroz Caldo | Arroz Caldo is a Filipino rice porridge similar to congee, made by simmering rice in a ginger-infused chicken broth until it’s thick and creamy. It’s typically garnished with fried garlic, scallions, and a squeeze of calamansi juice. | Best Place: Aling Banang’s in Quezon City |
| 5. Longganisa | Longganisa are Filipino sausages made from ground pork, often flavored with garlic and sweet or savory spices. They are typically served with garlic-fried rice and a fried egg, making it a delightful breakfast choice. | Best Place: Vigan, Ilocos Sur for authentic Vigan longganisa |
These dishes represent a mix of sweet and savory options that are commonly enjoyed by Filipinos for breakfast. You can find variations of these dishes throughout the Philippines, but trying them at these recommended places will give you a memorable breakfast experience.
Top 5 Lunch dishes to try in the Philippines
Certainly! Here are the top 5 dishes to try for lunch in the Philippines, along with descriptions of each dish and the best places to get them, without repeating items from the breakfast list:
| Dish | Description | Best Place to Try It |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Kare-Kare | Kare-Kare is a Filipino oxtail stew made with a rich peanut sauce, vegetables like eggplant and string beans, and often served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) on the side. It’s a flavorful and savory dish. | Best Place: Abe in Taguig City |
| 2. Lechon | Lechon is a whole roasted pig, and it’s considered a Filipino delicacy. The skin is crispy and flavorful, while the meat inside is tender and succulent. It’s often served as the centerpiece of festive occasions. | Best Place: Cebu City for famous Cebu lechon |
| 3. Sinigang | Sinigang is a sour tamarind-based soup that can include pork, shrimp, or fish, along with various vegetables. The sour and savory broth is a delightful contrast to the ingredients. | Best Place: Gerry’s Grill (multiple locations) |
| 4. Laing | Laing is a spicy dish from Bicol made with dried taro leaves cooked in coconut milk with chili peppers and shrimp paste. It has a creamy texture and a complex flavor profile. | Best Place: Naga City in Bicol |
| 5. Adobo | Adobo is a classic Filipino dish made with meat (usually chicken or pork) marinated and simmered in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, and black peppercorns. It’s savory, slightly tangy, and incredibly flavorful. | Best Place: Adobo Connection (multiple locations) |
These lunch dishes showcase the diversity of Filipino cuisine, with a mix of meat, seafood, and vegetable-based options. Each dish offers a unique taste of the Philippines, and trying them at these recommended places will give you an authentic culinary experience.
Top 5 Dinner dishes to try in the Philippines
Certainly, here are the top 5 dishes to try for dinner in the Philippines, along with descriptions of each dish and the best places to get them, without repeating items from the previous lists:
| Dish | Description | Best Place to Try It |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Adobong Manok at Baboy (Chicken and Pork Adobo) | Adobo is a quintessential Filipino dish made with chicken and/or pork, marinated and simmered in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, and black peppercorns. It has a savory and slightly tangy flavor. | Best Place: Mesa Filipino Moderne (multiple locations) |
| 2. Sinigang na Hipon (Shrimp Sinigang) | Sinigang is a sour tamarind-based soup, and this version features shrimp as the main protein. It’s cooked with various vegetables in a sour broth, creating a deliciously tangy and savory flavor. | Best Place: Abe (multiple locations) |
| 3. Lechon Kawali | Lechon Kawali is a popular Filipino dish made from deep-fried crispy pork belly. The skin is incredibly crispy, while the meat remains tender and flavorful. It’s often served with a side of liver sauce. | Best Place: Sentro 1771 in Pasig City |
| 4. Pancit Malabon | Pancit Malabon is a seafood noodle dish that features thick rice noodles topped with a savory shrimp and crab sauce, garnished with shrimp, squid, hard-boiled eggs, and various vegetables. | Best Place: Aling Banang’s in Quezon City |
| 5. Pinakbet | Pinakbet is a vegetable stew made with a variety of indigenous Filipino vegetables, often including squash, okra, eggplant, and bitter melon. It’s cooked with shrimp paste (bagoong) for a salty-savory kick. | Best Place: Kanin Club (multiple locations) |
Get ready to savor the exquisite Filipino feast! Indulge in these beloved classics that embody the vibrant flavors and authentic ingredients of the Philippines’ culinary legacy.Enjoy them at these recommended places for an authentic dining experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, Manila boasts of 48 exceptional restaurants that provide a remarkable gastronomic experience. These establishments not only satisfy the palate but also offer a profound connection to the Philippines’ vibrant cultural heritage and rich traditions. Exploring the diverse and exquisite flavors of Filipino cuisine in these establishments is akin to embarking on a sensory voyage through the heart and soul of this beautiful country.
These restaurants not only have delicious food, but also tell a great story about the culinary history of the Philippines. These restaurants, ranging from modest carinderias that faithfully preserve classic recipes to elegant dining establishments that give a contemporary twist to traditional dishes, truly celebrate the rich heritage of our nation.
Indulging in the flavors of savory adobo, crispy lechon, or delectable sinigang goes beyond just a meal; it’s an immersive experience into a vibrant culture that has been shaped by centuries of diverse culinary influences from Malay, Chinese, Spanish, and American cuisines. Manila’s dining scene is a melting pot of flavors, and these restaurants serve as windows into the Philippines’ diverse and fascinating culinary landscape.
So, whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, don’t miss the opportunity to explore Manila’s top 48 restaurants. Indulging in our dining experience means much more than just satisfying your hunger. It’s an extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant tradition, admire the culinary masterpieces crafted by talented Filipino chefs, and embolden your palate with the exhilarating flavors of our country’s cultural treasure trove. With every bite, you’ll not only satisfy your appetite but also nourish your appreciation for the vibrant tapestry of flavors that make the Philippines a true gastronomic treasure.
