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Ultimate Guide to Find The Best Filipino Restaurants in the Philippines
If there is one thing that defines the 7,641 islands of the Philippines, it isn’t just the turquoise waters or the world-class sunsets—it’s the food. Often described as the original "fusion cuisine," Filipino food is a vibrant tapestry of indigenous flavors woven together with centuries of Spanish, Chinese, and Malay influences. Join us as we explore the essential dishes, regional specialties, and the very best places to eat across the archipelago.
Ilustrado Restaurant
Ilustrado Restaurant is a legendary culinary landmark that has defined Filipino-Spanish heritage dining since 1989. Set within a charming colonial-style courtyard, it offers an "Old Manila" ambiance that transports diners back in time with its antique wooden interiors and lush garden setting. The restaurant is world-renowned for its Paella Ilustrado and its inventive take on local ingredients, most notably its signature Sampaguita Ice Cream, which uses the Philippine national flower to create a delicate, floral dessert.
Ilustrado Restaurant
744 Cabildo Street, corner Recoletos St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
EMILIA, House of Filipino Food
This restaurant offers a chic, "Old Manila" atmosphere characterized by high ceilings, vintage Machuca tiles, and a welcoming 1950s retro vibe. It has quickly become a favorite for its elegant yet soulful execution of Filipino-Spanish heritage dishes, ranging from the adventurous Adobong Balut to the comforting Kare-Kareng Bagnet and savory Salmon Sinigang.
EMILIA, House of Filipino Food
934 Gen. Solano St, San Miguel, Manila, 1005 Metro Manila, Philippines
Provenciano
The restaurant offers a nostalgic "Filipiana" ambiance, complete with rustic décor and a vintage kalesa at the entrance. Under the guidance of Chef Hernan Christian De Jesus, Provenciano prides itself on traditional, labor-intensive cooking methods—marinating meats overnight and hand-grating coconut—to ensure every dish tastes like a true home-cooked meal.
Provenciano
110 Maginhawa, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101 Kalakhang Maynila, Philippines
George and Onnie's
George and Onnie’s is a soulful Filipino comfort food concept that elevates home-style heirloom recipes with premium ingredients and sophisticated culinary flair. Diners frequently praise the Kurobuta Pork Sinigang for its tender richness and the House Crispy Sisig for its perfect crunch, while their signature Ube Basque Cheesecake and Bibingka provide a decadent modern finish to a traditional Filipino feast.
George and Onnie's
L/G, The Shops, Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati City, 1226 Metro Manila, Philippines
Toyo Eatery
Toyo Eatery is the vanguard of progressive Filipino cuisine, consistently ranked as one of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants and a recipient of a Michelin Star in the 2026 guide. Helmed by Chef Jordy Navarra, this Makati-based "eatery" (named after the humble Filipino soy sauce) focuses on rediscovering the country’s national identity through masterful fermentation, local sourcing, and storytelling. It is famous for its "Bahay Kubo" salad, which ingeniously incorporates all 18 vegetables mentioned in the beloved Filipino folk song, and its signature Three-Cut Pork Barbecue.
Toyo Eatery
2316, The Alley at Karrivin, Karrivin Plaza, 1231 Chino Roces Ave Ext, Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Hapag
Hapag is a masterful expression of contemporary Filipino dining, newly crowned with one Michelin Star in the 2026 Guide for its high-quality, inventive cooking. The restaurant is led by visionary chefs Thirdy Dolatre and Kevin Navoa, who transform local ingredients into an evocative multi-course tasting journey. Named after the Filipino word for "dining table," Hapag moves beyond traditional boundaries with signature creations like Laing Stones and Lobster Inasal, all while emphasizing sustainability and Filipino artisanship through locally made furniture and ceramics.
Hapag
7th Floor, The Balmori Suites, Hidalgo Dr, Rockwell Center, Makati City, 1210 Metro Manila, Philippines
Ombu Kusina
Ombu Kusina is a vibrant dining destination celebrated for its creative "Modern Filipino" approach that infuses traditional island flavors with global influences. The restaurant is renowned for its welcoming, sophisticated ambiance—blending gold-toned interiors with rustic Filipino elements—making it a favorite for family gatherings and "balikbayan" homecoming feasts. Guests are often drawn to their inventive signature dishes, such as the Sisig Pizza, Salted Egg Spaghettini, and the visual spectacle of the Flaming Chicken, which is torched tableside.
Ombu Kusina
91 - 93, Ground Floor, Sequoia Hotel, Mother Ignacia Avenue, corner Timog Ave, Quezon City, 1103 Metro Manila, Philippines
Esmeralda Kitchen
Esmeralda Kitchen is a charming "hidden gem" that has gained international acclaim, including a Michelin Guide selection for 2026. The restaurant offers a nostalgic "tita’s house" vibe with its bright, plant-filled interiors and rustic décor. It is celebrated for serving elevated yet soulful Filipino comfort food that balances traditional heritage with refined presentation. Diners rave about their Lechon Sinigang, which keeps the pork belly skin crispy by serving the sour broth on the side, and the Pork Dinuguan with Fried Puto, noted for its bold, savory depth.
Esmeralda Kitchen
43 Mayon St, Santa Mesa Heights, Quezon City, 1114 Metro Manila, Philippines
Lola Ote Restaurant
Lola Ote Restaurant is a beloved institution famous for being the "Home of the Best Barbecue" and a go-to spot for authentic, no-frills Filipino comfort food. It offers a warm, nostalgic atmosphere that makes diners feel like they are eating at a grandmother’s home. The restaurant’s undisputed star is its 18-inch Pork Barbecue, grilled on innovative metal skewers to ensure the meat remains incredibly juicy and tender with a perfect smoky char. Beyond the barbecue, Lola Ote is celebrated for its street-food favorites like Crispy Isaw and heartier classics like Chicken Molo Soup and Gising-Gising.
Lola Ote Restaurant
24 Sgt. Esguerra Ave, Diliman, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Lampara
Lampara is a sleek "Neo-Filipino" bistro recently recognized as a Bib Gourmand awardee in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide. Known for its sophisticated yet unpretentious atmosphere, it is housed in a renovated apartment complex that blends mid-century modern aesthetics with cozy, lamp-lit interiors. Lampara is celebrated for its inventive small plates and "deconstructed" approach to local staples, such as the fan-favorite Rice Cups (crispy shells filled with longganisa or tofu) and the Dinuckdakan (a creative duck-based version of the Ilocano dinakdakan).
Lampara
Unit 1 GF, Villa Caridad 1, 5883 Enríquez, Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City, 1210 Metro Manila, Philippines
Palm Grill
Recognized with a Michelin Bib Gourmand in the 2026 Guide, this restaurant—led by Chef Miguel "Miggy" Cabel Moreno—is a tribute to Southern Mindanaon heritage, serving authentic heirloom recipes that rely on bold spices and burnt coconut. It is most famous for its Green Chicken (Pyanggang Manok), which is slow-cooked in a rich paste of toasted coconut and spices, and its Tiyula Itum, a black beef soup that recently received a rare 5-star "seal of approval" from the Best Ever Food Review Show.
Palm Grill
179 Tomas Morato Ave, Diliman, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Dapo at Tisa
Known for its hearty portions and festive atmosphere, it has earned a reputation as a go-to spot for family celebrations and casual group dinners. The restaurant is famous for its Bulalo Steak, served on a sizzling plate with rich gravy, and its unique Dapo’s Secret—a signature dessert that puts a decadent twist on mango and sticky rice with powdered milk and ice cream.
Dapo at Tisa
77 Lilac St, Marikina, 1811 Metro Manila, Philippines
Alamat Filipino Cuisine
Under the culinary direction of Chef Niño Laus, the restaurant transforms traditional pulutan (bar snacks) and heirloom recipes into elevated, modern creations. Alamat is famous for its Bacon Bagnet, Wagyu Bistek Skewers served over a bed of Bicolano laing, and its inventive Papaitan sa Cacao.
Alamat Filipino Cuisine
2/F, 5666 Don Pedro, Poblacion, Makati City, 1209 Metro Manila, Philippines
LOLA Cafe
LOLA Cafe is a celebrated destination for modern Filipino comfort food, beloved for its "Classics with a Twist" that honor the warmth of a grandmother’s kitchen (Lola). The menu is a masterful blend of nostalgia and innovation, featuring standouts like the Truffle Lengua, the rich and savory Pasta Negra (squid ink and crab fat), and the inventive Kimchi Kaldereta, topped off with their signature Kesong Puti Cheesecake or the Ube Quezo de Bola Cheesecake.
LOLA Cafe
Seaside Boulevard, Coral Way, Pasay City, 1300 Metro Manila, Philippines
COCHI by Marvin Agustin
COCHI by Marvin Agustin is a standout culinary destination that has elevated the humble roast suckling pig into a sophisticated dining experience, earning a prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand in the 2026 Guide. Born from actor-restaurateur Marvin Agustin’s pandemic passion project, the restaurant specializes in Cochinillo—baby pigs roasted for hours until the skin is glass-like and the meat is buttery tender, famously carved with a plate to demonstrate its softness. The menu bridges Filipino comfort with Spanish flair, featuring creative sides like Uni Adlai Rice, Mommy’s Laing, and Oyster Sisig, all served in a chic, warm setting at Verve Residences.
COCHI by Marvin Agustin
Verve Residences, Unit 1 Gr. Flr., Verve Residences Tower 2, 27th street corner 9th ave, 27th Street, Taguig, 1637 Metro Manila, Philippines
Gerry's Grill
Since its debut in 1997, it has evolved from a popular drinking spot into a beloved family restaurant chain with a massive global presence, known for its consistent quality and tropical, unpretentious vibe. The restaurant is world-famous for its Inihaw na Pusit (tender grilled squid basted in a signature sauce), Sizzling Sisig, and Crispy Pata, all of which are staples of the Filipino dining experience.
Gerry's Grill
4th Floor, SM City Manila, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines
Lydia's Lechon Los Baños
Lydia’s Lechon Los Baños is a specialized branch of the Philippines' iconic "Lechon Queen," providing a refined gateway to the legendary roast pig that has defined Filipino celebrations for over 60 years. While the lechon remains the undisputed star, the restaurant is also celebrated for its elevated Filipino classics like Beef Caldereta, Lechon Sisig, and its unique Seafood Paella-stuffed Lechon.
Lydia's Lechon Los Baños
Unit A2, RLC Bldg, Manila S Rd, Los Baños, 4030 Laguna, Philippines
Cafe Juanita
Cafe Juanita is a legendary culinary landmark renowned for its "eclectically romantic" atmosphere that feels like stepping into a whimsical, antique-filled treasure chest. Established by Dr. Efren "Boy" Vazquez, the restaurant is housed in a charming ancestral-style building adorned with colorful chandeliers, vintage trinkets, and lush fabrics, creating one of the most unique dining environments in the Philippines. While the décor is a conversation starter, the soul of Cafe Juanita lies in its traditional Filipino and Southeast Asian heritage dishes that prioritize "home-cooked" flavors over modern fusion.
Cafe Juanita
19 W Capitol Dr, Pasig, 1603 Metro Manila, Philippines
Tikme Dine
Tikme Dine (short for "Tikman Mo Dito") is a sprawling and serene garden restaurant that has become a premier destination for those seeking authentic Batangueño cuisine and a relaxing, rural-inspired escape. The restaurant is designed like a grand mansion surrounded by lush gardens, al fresco dining areas, and traditional nipa huts, creating a peaceful "provincial" ambiance in the heart of the city. It is celebrated for its generous portions and heirloom recipes, with must-try specialties like Lomi, Bulalo, and Okoy (shrimp fritters).
Tikme Dine
The RoyalCare Venue, Don Faustino, Quezon City, 1127 Metro Manila, Philippines
Goto Monster Comuna
Goto Monster is a legendary 24-hour haunt in Makati that has transformed the humble goto (ginger rice porridge with tripe) into a gourmet "monster" feast. It remains a cult favorite for its "no-shortcuts" approach, featuring a 24-hour slow-cooked beef broth and a staggering array of toppings. The restaurant is famous for its Goto Bagnet, which pairs velvety porridge with crispy deep-fried pork belly, and other indulgent additions like salted egg, tinapa (smoked fish) flakes, and chicharon bulaklak. Beyond the porridge, their Bibingka Waffles and artisanal Leche Flan Ice Cream Pops have earned their own dedicated following.
Goto Monster Comuna
Mezzanine Floor, Comuna Building, 238 Pablo Ocampo Sr. Ext, San Antonio Village, Makati City, 1204 Metro Manila, Philippines
The Singing Cooks & Waiters Atbp.
The Singing Cooks & Waiters Atbp. is a legendary culinary institution that offers a high-energy, "musical-themed" dining experience unique to the Philippines. Founded by Rodolfo Ongpauco—the visionary credited with inventing Crispy Pata—this restaurant is world-famous for its talented staff who, while dressed in traditional attire, perform lively song-and-dance numbers between serving dishes. The menu is a celebration of authentic Filipino heritage, featuring generous platters like the Mama Chit Special (a massive seafood and meat feast), savory Beef Kare-Kare, and their iconic, melt-in-your-mouth Crispy Pata.
The Singing Cooks & Waiters Atbp.
G/F Ongpauco Building, Roxas Blvd, corner Sen. Gil J. Puyat Ave, Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Manam at the Triangle
Manam at the Triangle is the prestigious flagship of the Manam brand, distinguished by its Bib Gourmand recognition in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide for its exceptional high-quality cooking and value. It is the only Manam outlet that accepts reservations and features an exclusive "specials" menu alongside its signature "Classics and Twists." Guests flock here for definitive Filipino comfort dishes like the House Crispy Sisig, frequently hailed as the best in Manila, and the inventive Sinigang na Beef Short Rib and Watermelon, which masterfully balances savory, sour, and sweet notes in every bowl.
Manam at the Triangle
Restaurant Arcade, Ayala Triangle Walkways, Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines
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