As we celebrate this year’s Filipino Food Month, there’s no better way to join in the festivities than by diving headfirst into the delightful world of Filipino cuisine. These restaurants not only serve up the most authentic and mouth-watering Filipino dishes, but their very names scream Pinoy pride. So, gather your family and friends, loosen those belts, and get ready for a culinary adventure you won’t forget. Here are our top picks:
1. Hapag
Where: Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City
Step into Hapag, where modern Filipino cuisine is located and your taste buds are the VIPs. The chefs here are culinary magicians, transforming traditional Filipino flavors into something truly enchanting. Their tasting menus are like a rollercoaster for your palate. To prove it, they have been recognized as part of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants.
2. Lampara
Where: Poblacion, Makati City
Lampara is the place where dinner meets fun and flair. Nestled in the lively Poblacion area, this new Filipino gem serves up dishes that are as familiar as they are comforting. Imagine Filipino flavors with a surprising twist, paired with signature cocktails that’ll make your evenings sparkle. The ambiance at Lampara is both chic and welcoming, making it an ideal spot with friends or a romantic dinner that will have you coming back for more memorable nights out.
3. Mesa
Where: Greenbelt 5, Makati City
Mesa is like a warm hug from your Filipino grandma, but in restaurant form. Since 2009, this reliable favorite has been dishing out traditional Pinoy comfort food that never fails to hit the spot. The cozy interiors, with their bamboo and wood accents, make it feel like you’re at grandma’s. Whether you’re craving classic adobo, a hearty bowl of sinigang and kare-kare, or the crispy lechon kawali, Mesa has got you covered.
4. Pamana
Where: Tagaytay City
Pamana is a culinary love letter from chef Happy Ongpauco Tiu to Filipino food lovers. Set in the picturesque town of Tagaytay, this restaurant serves heirloom recipes that have been passed down through generations. Feast on the rich, flavorful nilagang bulalo, healthy pinakbet, savor the perfectly grilled chicken inasal, and indulge in the crispy kare-kare. The family memorabilia adorning the walls adds a touch of nostalgia to your dining experience, making every bite taste like a cherished memory.
5. Sarsa
Where: Legaspi Village, Makati City
At Sarsa, every meal feels like a fiesta. This restaurant is led by a Bacolod native chef who offers a smorgasbord of Filipino delights. From street food favorites like the most loved isaw and honest-to-goodness empanadas to palabok and its very own halo-halo, Sarsa is a colorful carnival of flavors. Some are even served using the ‘dahon ng saging.’ And not just that, they also sell their merchandise like caps and t-shirts.
6.Ilustrado
Where: Intramuros, Manila
Step back in time and into the elegance of Ilustrado, one of Intramuros’ finest. This restaurant exudes old-world charm with its Filipino-Spanish aesthetics. With some of its savory goodness, don’t leave without trying their signature Sampaguita ice cream, the country’s national flower.
7.Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant
Where: Intramuros, Manila
Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant is where history and flavor come together in a delightful dance. Located within the historic walls of Intramuros, Barbara’s offers a feast for the senses with its Spanish-era-inspired decor and live cultural shows. Enjoy a buffet of local delicacies like classic adobo and rich kare-kare while being serenaded by traditional Filipino dances. It’s a dining experience that’s as enriching as culture-centered.
8. Kanin Club
Where: Makati, Laguna and more
Walking into the Kanin Club feels like coming home to a provincial fiesta. With its wooden interiors and Pinoy-themed decorations, this restaurant is all about comfort and community. The menu is a treasure trove of Filipino favorites—think crispy pork binagoongan, crispy dinuguan, gambas con kabute, and flavorful adobo. And as the name suggests, the variety of flavored rice options is a rice lover’s dream come true. Make sure to bring your appetite; you’ll want to try everything!
9. Toyo Eatery
Where: Makati City
Toyo Eatery isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a culinary playground. Recognized as one of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2019, Toyo takes simple ingredients and turns them into magical creations. The restaurant’s industrial-themed, wood-cement-heavy aesthetic plus its mix of large and small group tables are always the reason many customers come back here. Also, they serve lambanog, a traditional Filipino distilled palm liquor!
10. Provenciano
Where: Quezon City
Provenciano is like a breath of fresh air, offering a cozy retreat in the bustling city. This restaurant serves up authentic regional dishes from across the Philippines, bringing the flavors of the countryside to your table. Try the sinaing na tulingan, the sinampalukang manok, and kaldereta sa barrio. The warm wooden interiors and communal tables create a welcoming atmosphere, making every meal here feel like a family gathering.
These restaurants, each with their unique charm and offerings, provide an authentic taste of the Philippines. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional dishes, modern interpretations, or regional specialties, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. Celebrate Filipino Food Month by dining at these exceptional establishments and savor the culinary heritage of the Philippines.
