The 16 best restaurants and places to eat in Manila

Last Update: March 12th, 2026

Filipino food is becoming a major global trend. In the buzzing streets of Manila, the capital of the Philippines, locals and tourists alike are treated to an incredible array of street food and traditional eats. Try savory, umami-rich Adobo or satisfy your sweet tooth with Halo-halo and more. The city is a must-visit destination for culture and culinary adventures – these are thebest restaurants in Manilato explore.

Tip #1: The Magic Table

A completely new dining concept elevates experiential gastronomy to a level never seen before. AtThe Magic Tablereality merges with illusion as this3D dinner was co-produced by The Clairvoyants.

Famous for their appearances onAmerica’s Got Talentwhere they enchanted the world with their spectacular mentalism and illusion shows, this experience now comes to your table!

During a five-course menu, you will experience magicand wizardry up close and participate in an interactive performance.

• —Showtimes: Please check our website for the latest schedule.
• —Grand Hyatt Manila8th Avenue, corner 35th St, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, 1634Metro Manila, Philippines
• —+63 2 8838 1234

Tip #2: Lagrima

Nestled in the heart of MakatiLagrimaisfamous for its authentic street tacos. The chefs use locally sourced ingredients in the kitchen of this California-style Mexican eatery.

Everything is made from scratch including the tortillas. The hip little restaurant is not limited to tacos although they are the clear customer favorites.

Burritos, super loaded nachos and quesadillas also graceLagrima’smenu. The restaurant has a second location for those exploring San Juan.

• —Makati: Daily: 12 pm – 10 pmSan Juan: Daily: 11 am – 10 pm
• —Makati:Ground Floor, Paseo Parkview Suites, Salcedo Village, San Agustin Street, Makati, 1227 Metro ManilaSan Juan:192 Wilson San Juan Metro Manila
• —+63 953 889 5193 (Makati)+63 936 917 7372 (San Juan)
• —n/a

Tip #3: Milky Way Cafe

TheMilky Wayhas been a culinary staple since 2002. Chef J. Gamboa has createdan international menu with a strong focus on Filipino classics.

Their award-winning Kare-Kare, the crispy Hito with Bagoong and Mustasa and of course their signature Halo-halo are standout stars on the menu.

With granite counters, Narra walls and black and ivory flooring the interior – designed by architect Gary Coscolluela – ensures thatevery visit is a sophisticated experience.

• —Daily: 11 am – 10 pm
• —900 Antonio Arnaiz Avenue, Makati, 1200 Metro Manila
• —+63 2 8843 4124
• —[email protected]

Tip #4: Max’s Fried Chicken

For most FilipinosMax’s Fried Chickenis a cherished family tradition. The kids love it, families meet there and teenagers frequently stop by for take-out.

This success story started in 1945 with Maximo Gimenez who opened a café to feed hungry American occupation troops. Many years later the restaurant is not only popular in Metro Manila but alsosuccessfully expanded into franchising in 1998. The birthplace and main restaurant remains in Quezon City.

• —Daily: 7 am – 9 pm
• —21 Scout Tuazon Street, Diliman, Quezon City, 1103 Metro Manila
• —+63 2 8887 9000
• —n/a

Tip #5: Provenciano

There is no way to overlookProvencianowhen it comes toauthentic Filipino food. Chef Chris de Jesus is the mastermind behind the pots and pans.

As a local expert, he knows how to cook original recipes while masterfully incorporating Chinese and Spanish influences into his cooking.

TheportionsProvencianooffers are ideal for sharingmaking it the perfect spot to discover regional dishes from various provinces of the Philippines.

• —Daily: 10.30 am – 9.30 pm
• —110 Maginhawa, Diliman Lungsod Quezon, 1101 Kalakhang, Manila
• —+63 915 721 4190
• —n/a

Tip #6: Half Saints

Inspired by the dishes of their childhood and their various travels, founders and chefs Christine and Jo opened thisunique bakery and caféin 2017.

The eateryHalf Saintson Esguerra Avenue crafts all its meals as well as savory and sweet pastries and cakes from scratch.

Customers enjoy puff pastry pizza, empanadas and a variety of croissants and cream puffs. Their bestsellers include the Tres Leches Cake, Crema de Fruta and anassortment of signature pies.

• —Mon – Thu: 11 am – 9 pmFri, Sat: 11 am – 11 pmSun: 11 am – 10 pm
• —Unit 9 GF, The Ignacia Place, 62 Sgt. Esguerra Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City
• —+63 935 933 0512
• —[email protected]

Tip #7: The Aristocrat Restaurant

Locals call itManila’s most famous restaurant. Since 1930The Aristocrat Restauranthas been the home of the best chicken BBQ in town.

In 2013 it was even officially recognized as a historic site by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines. It all started with Lola Asiang whose talent for cooking for a family of 13 kids led her to convert the ground floor of their house into an eatery.

• —Daily: 24 hours
• —432, 1004 San Andres Street Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila
• —+63 2 8524 7671
• —[email protected]

Tip #8: Globe Lumpia House

Globe Lumpia Houseis the place locals will point you to when you are looking forthe best Lumpia in town. It is also the oldest Lumpia establishment in the area.

Established in 1956 the line is often long as people wait to get the freshest spring rolls.Fresh vegetables rolled in rice paper and topped with peanuts, garlic and their secret homemade saucemake it a must-try. The menu is concise and includes chicken empanadas, brownies and atchara.

• —Daily: 8 am – 5 pm
• —Zone 030, 740 Gonzalo Puyat Street Santa Cruz, Manila, 1001 Metro Manila
• —+63 917 556 3669
• —[email protected]

Tip #9: Tetsuo

Have you ever triedumami Japanese fried chicken?Tetsuospecializes in this bold flavor at its two locations in the Manila Metro area. This punk-inspired little restaurant’s bestseller is the fried chicken meal with „birthday noodles“ (also known as Yi Mein).

Tetsuois definitely a cool place with creative and funky food. Other than chicken they serve Torched Salmon, Garlic Beef, Curry Spiced Pork and their famous crispy chicken skin.

• —Sun – Tue: 11 am – 10 pmWed – Sat: 11 am – 2 am
• —8483 Kalayaan Avenue, cor Matilde Makati, 1210 Metro Manila
• —+63 916 487 6559
• —[email protected]

Tip #10: Manam at the Triangle

Manam at the Trianglecaters to anyone with a craving fordelicious Filipino comfort food in a modern and inviting ambiance. Featuring Filipino favorites with modern twists and fusion elementsManamis consistently reliable and delicious.

The Sinigang na beef short rib, the Kare-Kare with oxtail and the Ube and Sago shake are among the customer favorites.

• —Mon – Sun: 9 am – 10 pm
• —Ground Level, Ayala Triangle Gardens, Paseo De Roxas Street, Cor Makati Avenue, Cor Ayala Avenue, Makati, Metro Manila
• —+63 967 190 4721
• —[email protected]

Tip #11: Ying Ying Teahouse

Ying Ying Teahouseis arenowned Chinese restaurant in Manila’s Chinatownspecializing in Cantonese classics and famous for its dim sum.

WhileYing Yingoffers an excellent tea selection many locals and Chinese customers visit for the affordable and delicious eats.

The restaurant is clean but simple and the prices are very accessible. Traditional grilled meats like spare ribs or chicken feet are staples on the menu. Taro puffs, egg tarts or pineapple bread provide the perfect dessert.

• —Daily: 7 am – 10 pm
• —233-235 Dasmarinas Street, Corner Yuchengco Street, Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila
• —+63 253 1090 31
• —[email protected]

Tip #12: Binondo Bites

Known locally as a street sensationBinondo Bitesat Ongpin Streetoffers Fried Xiao Long Bao– a soupy dumpling stuffed with seasoned pork and spices.

For a sweet treat try the Lava Buchi, a sesame ball filled with creamy custard. We suggest getting both at once as the waiting time at this popular storefront is usually quite substantial.

• —Mon – Thu: ClosedFri – Sun: 8 am – 10 pm
• —628 Ongpin Street Binondo, Manila 1006 Metro Manila
• —n/a
• —n/a

Tip #13: Park Alvarez Café

Park Alvarez Caféis truly a hidden gem in Valenzuela City. This restaurant offersa dining experience paired with stunningly beautiful lake views.

Let yourself be charmed by the tranquil waters, gentle waves and calming ambiance. This restaurant is undoubtedly one of the best spots in Manila to spend a romantic evening or celebrate special occasions.

• —Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 7am – 9pmFriday, Saturday, Sunday: 7am – 10pmClosed on Wednesdays.
• —09 Brgy, Valenzuela, 1444 Metro Manila
• —+63 917 101 1008
• —n/a

Tip #14: Aurora

Aurorais a contemporary restaurant thatserves dishes rooted in classical Asian cooking. The familiar flavors are sure to evoke nostalgia as you share a meal with your loved ones.

The restaurant encourages its visitors to gather around the table with family and friends to enjoy a variety of delectable dishes and signature drinks.

We recommend pairing the Nam Tok with a pomelo salad as a side. If you’re a fan of fine drinks,be sure to try one of their fruity cocktails as well.

• —Mon-Sat: 11 am – 3pm and 6pm – 10pmSun: closed
• —Pacific Star Building, Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue cor Makati Avenue, Makati City
• —+63 917 104 3672
• —n/a

Tip #15: Gallery by Chele

• —Mon: closedTue: 6 – 11 pmWed – Sun: 12 – 3:30 pm and 6 – 11 pm
• —5/F Clipp Center, 11th Avenue corner, 39th St, Taguig, Metro Manila, Philippines
• —+63 917 546 1673
• —[email protected]

Tip #16: Seoul Sky Restaurant

A restaurant thatoffers a 360-degree panoramic view of Manilashould definitely be on any list of the best dining spots. AtSeoul Skyyou will feel as though you are on the 33rd floor in „seventh heaven“ – from the food to the view everything is truly perfect.

With itsexpertly prepared Korean dishesthe restaurant has elevated itself into the world of fine dining. Impressive and delicious are the perfect descriptors for this experience.

• —Mon-Sun: 11 am – 9 pm
• —33rd Floor, MDC 100 Building, Eastwood Ave,Quezon City, 1110 Metro Manila, Philippines
• —+63 917 622 3968
• —n/a

Our selection of restaurants is based, among other things, on the editorial team’s individual preferences and on reviews on the internet. Please contact the respective provider directly for information on reservations and prices. The pictures come from the restaurants listed. All Information is provided without guarantee!