Makati Restaurants: A Culinary Guide to the Best Dining Experiences
Makati is one of the Philippines’ most vibrant cities, known for its thriving business district, upscale shopping malls, and lively nightlife. But beyond its corporate hustle, Makati is a paradise for food lovers. Whether you’re craving traditional Filipino cuisine, international flavors, or experimental fusion dishes, the city’s dynamic restaurant scene offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
With an array of dining options, from Michelin-starred establishments and high-end fine dining to hidden hole-in-the-wall gems and budget-friendly local favorites, Makati has something to satisfy every palate. The city boasts some of the best chefs, restaurateurs, and culinary innovators, making it a go-to destination for food connoisseurs and casual diners alike.
From the bustling streets of Poblacion, where trendy bistros and international flavors reign supreme, to the elegant settings of Greenbelt and Rockwell, where you can indulge in gourmet meals and exclusive dining experiences, Makati offers an endless array of choices. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot, a cozy café for brunch, a vibrant food park, or an all-you-can-eat buffet, this city caters to every dining preference and occasion.
Moreover, Makati’s restaurant scene is constantly evolving, with new concepts, pop-up kitchens, and fusion cuisine emerging regularly. The city’s love for food is evident in the countless dining festivals, chef collaborations, and restaurant openings that happen throughout the year.
Whether you’re a local resident exploring new flavors, an expat searching for home-style cooking, or a tourist eager to experience authentic Filipino dishes, this comprehensive guide to Makati restaurants will help you navigate the city’s best culinary experiences. So, get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through Makati’s top dining destinations!
Why Makati is a Food Lover’s Haven
Makati offers an eclectic mix of cuisines, from Filipino comfort food to international gourmet dishes. The city caters to all types of diners, whether you’re looking for fine dining, casual eats, or budget-friendly meals.
Here’s what makes Makati’s food scene stand out:
- Diverse Selection – From authentic Filipino dishes to global cuisines like Japanese, Italian, Korean, and Spanish.
- Trendy Food Concepts – The city is home to food parks, speakeasy-style restos, and rooftop dining spots.
- High-Quality Ingredients – Many restaurants source fresh, organic, and premium ingredients.
- Convenience – Located in the heart of Metro Manila, Makati restaurants are easily accessible.
Top Makati Restaurants by Category
1. Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Makati
For those looking for an elegant dining experience, these restaurants offer top-notch cuisine, sophisticated ambiance, and impeccable service.
– Blackbird
📍 Location: Nielson Tower, Ayala Triangle 🍽️ Cuisine: Contemporary European & Asian
💰 Price Range: ₱₱₱₱
Why Visit? Located in a restored 1930s aviation tower, Blackbird offers an upscale yet relaxed setting with delicious steak, seafood, and pasta dishes.
– Gallery by Chele
📍 Location: BGC (near Makati) 🍽️ Cuisine: Modern Filipino & International
💰 Price Range: ₱₱₱₱
Why Visit? Helmed by renowned Chef Chele Gonzalez, this fine-dining spot takes Filipino cuisine to the next level with innovative dishes and tasting menus.
– Mireio
📍 Location: Raffles Makati
🍽️ Cuisine: French
💰 Price Range: ₱₱₱₱
Why Visit? If you’re craving authentic French cuisine with a breathtaking city view, Mireio is the place to be. Try their duck confit and signature soufflé.
2. Best Casual Dining Restaurants in Makati
For a more relaxed yet equally satisfying dining experience, check out these casual restaurants.
– Wildflour Café + Bakery
📍 Location: Rada St., Legazpi Village
🍽️ Cuisine: All-Day Brunch, Bakery, International
💰 Price Range: ₱₱₱
Why Visit? Known for their fresh bread, brunch menu, and specialty coffee, Wildflour is a favorite among professionals and foodies.
– Manam
📍 Location: Greenbelt 2
🍽️ Cuisine: Filipino
💰 Price Range: ₱₱
Why Visit? If you want a modern twist on classic Filipino dishes, Manam serves everything from crispy sisig to sinigang with a flavorful punch.
– Ooma
📍 Location: Greenbelt 3
🍽️ Cuisine: Japanese
💰 Price Range: ₱₱
Why Visit? Ooma is known for its delicious sushi rolls, rice bowls, and innovative Japanese fusion dishes.
3. Best Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Makati
You don’t have to splurge to enjoy great food. Here are some affordable restaurants that serve quality meals.
– Beni’s Falafel
📍 Location: P. Burgos, Makati
🍽️ Cuisine: Mediterranean
💰 Price Range: ₱
Why Visit? This hidden gem serves some of the best falafels and hummus in Manila, perfect for vegetarians and Middle Eastern food lovers.
– El Chupacabra
📍 Location: Felipe St., Poblacion
🍽️ Cuisine: Mexican
💰 Price Range: ₱
Why Visit? A go-to spot for street-style tacos and margaritas, El Chupacabra is great for casual hangouts.
– Kanto Freestyle
📍 Location: Makati Ave.
🍽️ Cuisine: Filipino Breakfast
💰 Price Range: ₱
Why Visit? This 24/7 eatery serves elevated Filipino breakfast meals at affordable prices, making it a top choice for budget-conscious diners.
4. Best Makati Buffets and Eat-All-You-Can Restaurants
For those with a big appetite, Makati has some excellent buffet restaurants.
– Spiral (Sofitel Manila)
📍 Location: Sofitel, near Makati
🍽️ Cuisine: International
💰 Price Range: ₱₱₱₱
Why Visit? Known as one of the best buffets in the Philippines, Spiral offers multiple live cooking stations and high-end dishes.
– Vikings Luxury Buffet
📍 Location: SM Jazz Mall
🍽️ Cuisine: International
💰 Price Range: ₱₱₱
Why Visit? A more affordable buffet option with a wide variety of dishes, including sushi, seafood, steak, and Filipino favorites.
– The Alley by Vikings
📍 Location: BGC (near Makati)
🍽️ Cuisine: International
💰 Price Range: ₱₱₱
Why Visit? Offers an interactive food-hall-style buffet with diverse food stations.
5. Best Makati Rooftop Restaurants & Bars
For a romantic dinner or a night out, these rooftop spots offer delicious food and stunning skyline views.
– The Penthouse 8747
📍 Location: Makati Ave.
🍽️ Cuisine: International
💰 Price Range: ₱₱₱
Why Visit? Inspired by the Great Gatsby era, this rooftop bar serves premium steaks and cocktails with a breathtaking view.
– Z Hostel Roofdeck
📍 Location: Poblacion
🍽️ Cuisine: Bar Bites, Filipino
💰 Price Range: ₱₱
Why Visit? A favorite for backpackers and expats, this place has a lively atmosphere and affordable drinks.
– Mireio Terrace
📍 Location: Raffles Makati
🍽️ Cuisine: French
💰 Price Range: ₱₱₱₱
Why Visit? A more intimate and luxurious rooftop dining spot with exquisite French dishes and fine wine.
Tips for Dining in Makati Restaurants
- Make a Reservation – Popular spots fill up fast, especially on weekends.
- Check for Promotions – Some restaurants offer weekday lunch deals and happy hour discounts.
- Try Local Dishes – Even if you prefer international cuisine, don’t miss out on Filipino specialties like sinigang, adobo, and lechon kawali.
- Explore Beyond Malls – Some of the best Makati restaurants are tucked away in hidden streets.
Final Thoughts
Makati is undoubtedly one of the best places in the Philippines to explore diverse culinary experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining, casual meals, budget-friendly eats, or buffet feasts, Makati’s restaurant scene has something to satisfy your cravings.
