Any food lover will enjoy exploring the bustling streets of Barangay Poblacion, Makati City. They are filled with quaint cafes, quirky restaurants, budget-friendly bars, and even smokehouses. Here is a guide to discovering the best eats this Makati neighborhood has to offer.
1 Bistro Manuel
Chef Ariel Manuel of Lolo Dad’s fame is back in action with the opening of his eponymous restaurant, and he’s churning out timeless dishes. The decadent lamb cooked three ways is a must-try!
2/F Six Axis Center, 4347 B. Valdez Street (tel. no.: 871-8566)
2 Empingao
This Latin-American spot turns out bold flavors like the crowd-pleasing Elena Ruz sandwich (a delicious combination of turkey, strawberry jam, and cream cheese) and the off-menu Mofongo (smashed plantains, pork belly, and chicharon).
Burgos Street corner San Lucas Street (mobile no.: 0915-7257378)
3 The Wild Poppy
Inspired by rooftop bars abroad, The Wild Poppy’s bright, cheery vibe is perfect for unwinding with the gang. Enjoy affordable cocktails, modern Asian cuisine (we love their pork belly in a fried mantou bun!), and the Pinterest-perfect ambiance.
5666 Don Pedro Street (mobile no.: 0995-9908737)
4 Alamat Filipino Pub and Deli
Come for the local craft beers, but stay for their exceptional selection of regional artisanal sausages (like the dinuguan sausage and the garlicky Alaminos sausage).
2/F 5666 Don Pedro Street (0917-5302580)
5 The Smokeyard
Lose the cutlery and get your hands dirty with The Smokeyard’s wide array of smoked meats that pay tribute to the American south. Pro tip: Their sides are a must! (We’re looking at you, dirty rice.)
5666 Don Pedro Street (tel. no.: 771-1288)
6 Tilde Hand Crafe Cafe
This little gem of a café manages to excel at everything: third-wave coffee; a low-key, well-thought out menu that includes a stellar Reuben sandwich with kimchi and pears; and an impressive array of mini cakes.
GF EWC Building, 5417 Matilde Street (tel. no.: 771-2764)
7 Holy Smokes BBQ
This barbecue spot opens at five p.m., which is also the best time to go because that’s when their crowd favorite, the brisket, comes fresh out of the smoker.
5834 Matilde Street (tel. no.: 587-1519)
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8 Tambai Yakitori House
The yakitori sticks at Tambai are the draw, but it’s the laid-back atmosphere that’ll make you want to stay. Kick back with a few beers and try everything on the menu— and don’t skip the uber-tasty U.S. Beef Rib Finger.
5779 Felipe Street (tel. no.: 215-5695)
9 Commune
Fueled by a sense of community, Commune serves only local coffee (like single origin arabica beans from Benguet) and has enlisted local artisans to design the interiors. Bonus: You’ll be delighted by their Instagram-worthy 3D latte art!
36 Polaris Street (mobile no.: 0919-8595848)
10 Bean & Yolk
Breakfast lovers rejoice! This cozy café puts a spotlight on the most important meal of the day with their all-day brunch menu. Indulge in coddled eggs, egg sandwiches, eggs Benedict, and coffee.
Unit G6 Bel-Air Soho Suites, Polaris Street (mobile no.: 0920-9267587)
11 A’Toda Madre
The first tequila bar in Manila, this Dia de los Muertos-themed joint has the most extensive tequila list in the city, and uses 100 percent pure agave tequila in their margaritas. Make sure to order tacos, too! The team at A’Toda Madre are the same folks behind popular taco cart Tacos Chingones, so their tacos shouldn’t be missed.
G/F Sunette Tower, Durban Street (mobile no.: 0998-9991521)
12 Kite Kebab Bar
Swing by for Persian street food staples like a to-die-for lamb biryani (the lamb is simmered for six hours) and an array of kebabs like ox tongue, Wagyu, and shrimp tandoori.
5772 Ebro Street (tel. no.: 810-7388)
13 Bucky’s
Everyone’s favorite “not-a-brownie” now has a brick-and-mortar that serves hot meals (like a mean baked ziti) and soft-serve ice cream. Pop in for lunch, dessert, or grab a few bars of Buckies to go.
5666 Don Pedro Street (mobile no.: 0916-7545140)
14 Senor Pollo
For Latin chicken done right, swing by Sen?or Pollo’s second branch. It’s just as vibrant, with the same delicious roast chicken and fried chicken, and that stellar coleslaw—perfect grub for a fun night out with the crew.
5767 Ebro Street (tel. no.: 831-6945)
15 Crying Tiger
Reminiscent of holes-in-the-wall in Thailand, Crying Tiger doesn’t mess around when it comes to spicy, affordable Southeast Asian fare. Chow down on mee goring or gnaw on Malaysian wings, then wash it all down with an ice-cold Tiger beer.
4986 P. Guanzon Street (tel. no.: 894-1769)
This story was originally published in the February 2017 issue of Yummy magazine. Minor edits have been made by Yummy.ph editors.
