“Cooking is all about people. Food is maybe the only universal thing that really has the power to bring everyone together. No matter what culture, everywhere around the world, people eat together.”
-Guy Fieri
Bethenny Frankel was once quoted as saying, “Your diet is a bank account. Good food choices are good investments”.
With that sentiment in mind, we should endeavor to find food that is affordable just as it is tasty. As the capital of the Philippines, Metro Manila is known to have some of the best restaurants and food offers in the country. People who wish to take their taste buds on an exciting gastronomic adventure would certainly not be disappointed as there are arrays upon arrays of food options in the city. However, with unlimited options at your disposal, choosing restaurants and identifying dishes worth trying can understandably be overwhelming.
While you can have your own favorites, it is important to explore beyond your comfort zone. Not to worry, you do not have to do the searching yourself. This article has done the legwork to bring you some of the capital city’s underrated and must-try restaurants that are sure to elevate your gastronomic experience.
Below are just some of our top picks:
1.) Smokeyard (Poblacion)
Fans of smoked BBQ, rejoice! Smokeyard in Poblacion offers that classic, tender, juicy, fall-off-the-bone BBQ. The barbecue joint is located in the heart of where everything is happening, Poblacion. If you have a hankering for smoked meats, never miss out on trying out their food items. Some of the best things you can get from their menu are their Baby Back Ribs and Pulled Pork—both of which are mouthwateringly delicious dishes.
2.) Three Guys and A Grill (Poblacion)
Another crowd favorite in Poblacion is Three Guys and A Grill which serves home-grilled sausages like no other. Their restaurant is a small deli in Poblacion, with their bestsellers being the Posh Dog, a German Pork Bratwurst slathered in truffle honey mustard and generously topped with onions and cheese. Indeed, you are in for a treat at Three Guys and A Grill.
3.) Kale Cafe + Restaurant (Fairview)
While it is easy to overlook Kale Cafe + Restaurant as just another neighborhood cafe, you should not be quick to dismiss this restaurant just yet. In fact, you should not sleep on Kale Cafe + Restaurant’s food offerings as they have some of Metro Manila’s best comfort food options that hit just the right spots and provide you with the warm embrace of good food. Some of the restaurant’s best offers are their freshly baked pieces of bread, which go well with a cup of coffee, and their new Katsu Sando, which will pretty much transport you to Japan.
4.) So Mot Vietnamese Cuisine (Kapitolyo)
If you have a particular hankering for Vietnamese food, do not miss out on So Mot Vietnamese Cuisine’s dishes. Not only does this restaurant offer authentically Vietnamese food, but their prices are also very affordable as well. Indeed, it will be the fix to all of your Vietnamese food cravings. Be sure to try out their Bun Cha Thit (Noodle Salad with Fried Chopped Meat), Pho Ga (Chicken Noodle Soup), and Banh Xeo (Sizzling Rice Pancakes).
5.) Bugis Singapore Street Food (Quezon City)
Bugis Singapore Street Food may not be as popular as the other restaurants on this list, but it is definitely something Singaporean food enthusiasts will enjoy. The humble and unassuming restaurant serves some of the best Singaporean dishes that can rival those of the actual Bugis Street in Singapore. If you are looking for something close to an authentic Singaporean food experience, you are definitely going to love this restaurant. Some of the food items you should definitely try are the Singapore Laksa and Nasi Goreng Rice. Also, you should never miss out on a Kaya Toast breakfast meal which you can enjoy any time of the day.
6.) Oomori Japanese Cuisine (Sampaloc)
Those who favor Japanese cuisine above all cuisines will definitely love Oomori Japanese Cuisine. Keep in mind, though, that this is unlike your typical Japanese restaurant as their menu consists of familiar Japanese favorites with a modern spin. Their menu offers a fusion that is guaranteed to take your tastebuds on an adventure. To make the most out of your experience, be sure to try out their unique Sushi Bake options like Salmon Wrapped Aburi with Truffle Oil and Flaming Nigiri if you want an explosive flavorful party in your mouth.
7.) Salta! Italian Rotisserie (Diliman)
If comfort food is what you have in mind, then Italian food can do no wrong! Salta! Italian Rotisserie in Diliman is one of the Italian restaurants that serve delicious rotisserie dishes, handmade pasta, and cheap Sangria. What makes this restaurant even better is that they have generous servings that are perfect for sharing!
