As one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic culinary hubs, Metro Manila has now become a paradise for foodies. From hidden gem serving traditional Filipino cuisine to world-class fine dining restaurants, the Philippine capital offers an extraordinary culinary adventure.
A blend of local, Spanish, American and Asian influences comes together in a unique and unforgettable harmony of flavours.
If you’re an expat in Philippine and planning a culinary holiday to Manila, choosing the best places to eat can be a challenge in itself given the wealth of tempting options.
To make your trip easier, we’ve compiled a list of the 9 best restaurants in Manila that should definitely be on your culinary radar. This list has been specially curated based on prestigious recommendations, including those from the Michelin Guide.
Get ready, as we’re about to explore Manila’s finest culinary masterpieces!
1. Toyo Eatery
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If you want to experience how traditional Filipino cuisine can be elevated into modern gastronomic brilliance, Toyo Eatery is the answer. Led by Chef Jordy Navarra, this restaurant in trendy Makati has repeatedly been named among the best restaurants in the Philippines and has received high praise from international food critics. The name “Toyo” means soy sauce in Tagalog, symbolising simplicity transformed into a masterpiece by talented hands.
At Toyo Eatery, local ingredients that are often overlooked are reimagined using modern cooking techniques and highly artistic presentation. One of their iconic dishes is Bahay Kubo, a unique salad featuring 18 varieties of vegetables mentioned in a traditional Filipino children’s song. The flavours are complex, familiar yet surprising, and rich in Filipino cultural and historical narratives. The restaurant also has a casual atmosphere with an interactive open-kitchen concept.
Address: Karrivin Plaza, 2316 Chino Roces Ave Extension, Makati, Metro Manila.
2. Helm by Chef Josh Boutwood
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For culinary adventurers who enjoy an element of surprise, Helm by Chef Josh Boutwood offers an intimate and theatrical dining experience. Recognised by the Michelin Guide as one of Manila’s most innovative dining destinations, Helm provides only a limited number of seats arranged around a circular counter. This concept allows guests to witness firsthand the precision and dedication of Chef Josh and his team as they prepare each dish before their eyes.
The menu is presented as a multi-course tasting experience that changes regularly, often revolving around unique themes focused on colour, texture, or specific ingredients. Chef Josh Boutwood is known for his minimalist yet bold approach, maximising the natural flavours of every component through cutting-edge techniques. Each bite is designed to spark discussion and emotion, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking avant-garde fine dining in the city.
Address: G/F The World Plaza, 4th Ave, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig, Metro Manila.
3. Metiz
Located along Chino Roces in Makati, Metiz is another culinary gem that join the list of best restaurants in Metro Manila. Led by French-Filipino Chef Stephan Duhesme, the restaurant is dedicated to exploring authentic Filipino flavours through a modern lens. Metiz focuses on fermentation techniques and the use of sour and savoury notes, which are central to local cuisine, while presenting them with refined French techniques.
Each Filipino dish within the tasting menu is designed to challenge and delight your palate. Chef Stephan successfully transforms rich, home-style flavours into balanced, elegant creations filled with surprising textures. The minimalist interior, accented with local wood materials, creates a warm yet exclusive atmosphere. It is one of the best places to appreciate the true depth of modern Filipino cuisine.
Address: Karrivin Plaza, Ground Floor, Building A, 2316 Chino Roces Ave Extension, Makati, Metro Manila.
4. Gallery by Chele
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Founded by Spanish chef Chele González, Gallery by Chele is where modern Spanish (Basque) culinary techniques meet the rich ingredients of Southeast Asia, particularly the Philippines. The restaurant offers a delicious spanish cuisine with fine dining experience. Extensive research is conducted into indigenous ingredients sourced from across the Philippine archipelago, which are then transformed into visually stunning and flavourful dishes.
The menu is highly flexible; you can choose a conceptual multi-course tasting menu or order à la carte dishes to share with friends. The atmosphere is lively and contemporary, filled with artistic elements that perfectly complement the trendy character of Bonifacio Global City. Do not miss their innovative cocktails, crafted using local fruits and spices to complete your culinary journey.
Address: 5/F Clipp Center, 11th Ave corner 39th St, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig, Metro Manila.
5. Mecha Uma
For lovers of Japanese cuisine with a global twist, Mecha Uma in Bonifacio Global City is a destination not to be missed. Also led by Chef Josh Boutwood, the restaurant offers omakase and contemporary dishes heavily inspired by Japanese culinary techniques while remaining free from rigid traditions. The name “Mecha Uma” comes from Japanese slang meaning “extremely delicious with an element of surprise”.
The restaurant delivers a highly personalised dining experience, allowing guests to watch the chef explore the finest seasonal ingredients flown directly from Japan and combined with high-quality local organic produce. Signature dishes such as thinly sliced raw Wagyu beef with special seasonings and fresh seafood accompanied by innovative sauces consistently impress diners. Combined with dim lighting and an exclusive atmosphere, Mecha Uma is ideal for celebrating special occasions in Manila.
Address: G/F RCBC Savings Bank Corporate Center, 25th St, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig, Metro Manila.
6. Grace Park Dining
If you are looking for a more relaxed setting while still enjoying top-tier cuisine, Grace Park Dining is highly recommended by Tatler Asia and local food bloggers. This farm-to-table restaurant is owned by Margarita Forés, who was named Asia’s Best Female Chef. Located in Rockwell, Makati, Grace Park features an industrial-vintage interior that feels stylish, warm, and inviting.
The restaurant’s philosophy centres on honest food, free from artificial additives and prepared using fresh ingredients sourced directly from local farmers. The menu combines comforting Italian dishes with Filipino ingredients. Be sure to try their handmade pasta paired with local crab or the slow-roasted pork belly, renowned for its tender meat and perfectly crisp skin. Dining here feels like enjoying home-cooked comfort food elevated to five-star restaurant standards.
Address: G/F One Rockwell West Tower, Rockwell Center, Makati, Metro Manila.
7. Linamnam MnL
Linamnam, meaning “savoury” or “umami” in Tagalog, is a unique and daring culinary project by young chef Don Baldosano. Located within a converted private home in Parañaque, the restaurant offers a casual backyard dining experience with culinary standards comparable to Michelin-starred establishments. This hidden gem has quickly gained attention from international food explorers thanks to its highly original concept.
At Linamnam, Chef Don is fully committed to using 100% Filipino ingredients, including the salt and oils featured in his dishes. Through the tasting menu, he retells the history of ancient Filipino cooking methods, including traditional smoking techniques and wild fermentation practices that are gradually being forgotten. Each dish is accompanied by a rich backstory, turning dinner into an unforgettable educational journey. Due to its very limited seating capacity, reservations should be made well in advance.
Address: 31 Greenvale 2, Parañaque, Metro Manila.
8. Hapag, Deliver the Best Filipino Cuisine
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Hapag, which means “dining table” in the local language, was founded by a group of young Filipino chefs with a mission to bring their traditional cuisine to the global stage. Located in Quezon City, the restaurant is one of the finest representations of modern Filipino cuisine. Its interior combines contemporary design with traditional bamboo craftsmanship, creating a sophisticated yet grounded atmosphere.
At Hapag, classic Filipino food are deconstructed and rebuilt into something entirely new while preserving their original essence. Dishes such as Kare-Kare (meat stew with peanut sauce) and Sinigang (traditional Filipino sour soup) that we can found as street food, are reinterpreted using modern culinary techniques. Hapag is the ideal destination for visitors seeking the warmth of Filipino hospitality wrapped in modern culinary luxury.
Address: 206 Katipunan Ave, Barangay Blue Ridge A, Quezon City, Metro Manila.
9. Antonio’s (Tagaytay / Metro Manila Extension), Recognised in the Michelin Guide
Although geographically located just outside Metro Manila in the cool highlands of Tagaytay, Antonio’s is considered a benchmark for fine dining among international tourists and expats in the Philippines.
The restaurant consistently appears on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants lists and has received Michelin recognition. Upon entering, guests are welcomed into an elegant Spanish-Filipino colonial-style mansion surrounded by lush gardens. This romantic and luxurious setting is perfectly complemented by the refreshing mountain air, making it an ideal escape from the bustle of the city.
The menu focuses on contemporary international cuisine featuring fresh organic ingredients harvested directly from their own gardens. One of the most celebrated dishes is Lechon (traditional Filipino roast pork), prepared using modern techniques, alongside premium steaks and indulgent desserts. A visit here is not merely about dining but about experiencing a magical and intimate culinary ritual. Be sure to book several weeks in advance, as tables are always in high demand.
Address: Purok 138, Barangay Neogan, Tagaytay City, Cavite (approximately 1.5–2 hours by car from central Manila).
