Best Filipino Restaurants in Manila

Metro Manila offers an incredible diversity of Filipino dining experiences, from heritage restaurants that have served generations to contemporary kitchens reimagining traditional flavors. Whether you are a visitor seeking authentic taste or a local looking for new favorites, this guide highlights the best places to experience Filipino cuisine in the capital.

Classic Filipino Restaurants

These establishments have stood the test of time, serving traditional Filipino dishes that have earned them loyal followings spanning decades.

Aristocrat Restaurant

Founded in 1936, Aristocrat is a Manila institution. The restaurant began as a small eatery and grew into one of the most recognized Filipino restaurant brands. Their signature barbecued chicken with java rice has remained unchanged for nearly 90 years, and for good reason - it is perfect.

Must-try dishes: Chicken Barbecue, Java Rice, Kare-Kare, Pancit Palabok

Price range: 300-600 PHP per person

Via Mare

Via Mare has been elevating Filipino cuisine since 1978. Known for impeccable presentation and consistent quality, this restaurant is where many Filipinos go for business lunches and family celebrations. Their seafood dishes are particularly noteworthy.

Must-try dishes: Rellenong Bangus, Crispy Pata, Seafood Kare-Kare

Price range: 400-800 PHP per person

Modern Filipino Cuisine

A new generation of Filipino chefs is reinterpreting traditional dishes with contemporary techniques while honoring the flavors Filipinos love.

Manam Comfort Filipino

Manam has become synonymous with modern Filipino dining. Their approach takes comfort food classics and presents them with flair without sacrificing authenticity. The restaurant is always packed, and for good reason - every dish delivers.

Must-try dishes: Sizzling Sinigang, Crispy Sisig, Watermelon Sinigang, House Crispy Pata

Price range: 350-700 PHP per person

Locavore Kitchen and Drinks

Locavore champions the farm-to-table movement in the Philippines, sourcing ingredients from local farmers and fisherfolk. Their menu changes seasonally, showcasing the best of what Philippine agriculture has to offer.

Must-try dishes: Bone Marrow Kare-Kare, Tinapa Rice, Grilled Liempo, Local Cheese Platter

Price range: 400-800 PHP per person

Toyo Eatery

Toyo Eatery represents the pinnacle of modern Filipino fine dining. Chef Jordy Navarra creates tasting menus that tell stories of Philippine food culture through inventive dishes that still taste deeply Filipino. The restaurant has appeared on Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list.

Experience: Multi-course tasting menu featuring seasonal Filipino ingredients

Price range: 3,500-5,500 PHP per person (tasting menu)

Regional Specialty Restaurants

The Philippines' regional cuisines each have distinct characteristics. These restaurants bring provincial flavors to Manila.

Abe Restaurant (Kapampangan Cuisine)

Pampanga is considered the culinary capital of the Philippines, and Abe brings authentic Kapampangan flavors to Manila. The dishes here are richer and more complex than typical Filipino fare.

Must-try dishes: Sisig, Bringhe (Kapampangan paella), Tidtad, Tocino

Price range: 400-900 PHP per person

Café Juanita (Bicolano Cuisine)

Bicolano cuisine is known for its generous use of coconut milk and chili peppers. Café Juanita showcases these bold flavors in a casual, neighborhood restaurant setting.

Must-try dishes: Bicol Express, Laing, Kinunot, Pinangat

Price range: 250-500 PHP per person

Practical Tips for Dining in Manila

• Make reservations: Popular restaurants fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Book at least a day in advance.
• Lunch vs. dinner: Many restaurants offer lunch specials at lower prices. Lunch crowds are also smaller.
• Share dishes: Filipino dining is communal. Order several dishes to share rather than individual entrees.
• Ask for recommendations: Staff at Filipino restaurants are usually happy to suggest dishes based on your preferences.
• Try the house specials: Each restaurant has signature dishes that represent their best work.

Food Markets and Street Food

For a more casual experience, Manila's food markets offer incredible variety:

• Mercato Centrale: Night market in BGC with multiple food stalls
• Legazpi Sunday Market: Weekend market in Makati with artisanal food vendors
• Salcedo Market: Saturday market known for ready-to-eat Filipino dishes

For more information about dining in the Philippines, check the Philippine Department of Tourism website or explore TripAdvisor Manila restaurants.