The 15 restaurants that made our year!
They say that the way to someone’s heart is through the stomach, and if that’s true, then the best way to get to Metro Manila is by eating your way through its culinary landscape. And with the ever-evolving food scene—new restaurants, new flavors, new dishes—there’s always something fresh to look forward to.
Consider this your curated guide to Metro Manila’s best restaurants of 2024—featuring the year’s newly opened hotspots, hidden gems that deserve the spotlight, and timeless favorites that are still making waves. Discover the perfect food spot to match your mood, taste, and budget—and find all the essential restaurant details through the Booky directory.
Read also: Enjoy These Deals and Discounts From Your Favorite Restaurants
Whether you’re on a romantic date, treating yourself, splurging your paycheck, or surviving petsa de peligro, you can still enjoy the most delicious dishes the city has to offer! Let us answer the ever-dreaded question, ‘Saan tayo kakain?’—you can thank us later.
15. Gingerlily
This is for you if: You want to celebrate an occasion with a spread of authentic Asian flavors.
Gingerlily Asian Kitchen is the newest addition to Shangri-La Mall’s array of restaurants. With its stylish yet relaxed interiors, this is the perfect spot for special celebrations or whenever you’re in the mood for exceptional Asian dishes.
The Thai Shrimp Cake (P385) is a good start to your feast, followed by their Homestyle Malaysian Laksa (P425) and Pork Riblets (P395).
View menu on Booky
G/F, Shaw Blvd cor EDSA, Shangri-La Plaza
14. Nolita Joe’s
This is for you if: You’re looking for the best late-night snack at Poblacion.
Imagine you’re roaming around Poblacion at night with your friends. Perhaps you’re a little tipsy, perhaps a little tired from partying, and you’re craving a fresh, hot slice of pizza. Where do you go? Nolita Joe’s of course.
Their neon sign is enough to draw you in like a moth to a flame, but it’s their pizzas that will make you stay. We recommend the Pepperoni Ala Vodka (P220 per slice) and SPM with Sausage, Pepperoni, and Mushroom (P300 per slice).
View menu on Booky
5666 Don Pedro St, Poblacion, Makati
13. Bun Run
This is for you if: You’re looking for the best smash burger in San Juan.
When it comes to the art of smash burgers, Bun Run has got it made. This casual joint in San Juan has truly made a buzz with their mouth-watering, no-fuss burgers. If you’re a first-timer, the humble yet amazing Cheeseburger (P250) is the way to go, paired with their classic French Fries (P150).
View menu on Booky
191 A Mabini St, Addition Hills, San Juan
12. Some Thai
This is for you if: You want lip-smacking Thai food in a more casual, hip setting.
From the visionary behind the fine-dining restaurant Modan comes Jorge Mendez’s latest concept—Some Thai. This hip, modern spot tucked in Tomas Morato is determined to reignite your love for Thai dishes.
As if to match the popping red interiors of Some Thai, the food is equally bursting with flavors. The Crab Omelette (starts at P480) is the talk of the town, along with their Tom Yum (starts at P480) and Mango Sticky Rice (P250).
View menu on Booky
195 Tomas Morato Ave, Tomas Morato, Laging Handa, Quezon City
11. CIBO
This is for you if: You want no-fail modern Italian cuisine.
Despite being in the game for years, CIBO by Chef Margarita Fores still stands as one of the most reliable, outstanding restaurants serving delicious Italian favorites. This year, they placed 44th out of 50 on the list of the world’s best artisan pizza chains.
There’s no doubt they’ve earned this recognition, especially after teaming up with Zubuchon for the remarkable Porchetta and collaborating with pizza master Chef Stefano to create pizza flavors that beautifully blend Filipino and Italian heritage.
10. Sicilian Roast
This is for you if: You want to impress a date with Italian cuisine.
Another Italian restaurant that deserves to be on your must-try list is Sicilian Roast. Their new menu offers exciting and appetizing eats, such as the Calzone, with juicy Italian sausage, and Chicken Parmesan. But the real star was Carbonara Speciale (P650) which is a great addition to your table, especially if you’re having a romantic night!
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Katipunan Ave, Arton Strip, Project 4, Quezon City
9. Hijo De! Mexican Cantina
This is for you if: You’re looking for a lowkey Mexican spot with the best birria.
In the search for the best tacos in Metro Manila, we landed at Hijo De! Mexican Cantina. This relaxed, casual spot may seem unassuming to the naked eye, but trust us when we say that their food is astounding. The Quesa Birria (starts at P115) is every meat lover’s dream come true along with the Steak Burrito (P200)
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1201 M Dela Fuente St cor Dapitan St, Sampaloc, Manila
8. Good Neighbor
This is for you if: You’re searching for an all-day dining spot with hearty comfort food dishes
Whether you’re visiting for a sunny, hearty brunch or winding down with a soulful dinner, Good Neighbor is sure to impress. With a diverse menu designed to satisfy any craving, they have something for every occasion.
For sun-up dining, the Mango Matcha Latte (P250) paired with Kimchi Fried Rice with Beef Bulgogi (P390) is a winner. Then, come sundown, Salmon Miso Glaze with Umami Rice (P690) with some La Piazza (P350) cocktail.
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G/F Tower 1, 26th St cor 7th Ave, Verve Residences 2, Fort Bonifacio
7. Tsumura
This is for you if: You’re looking for exceptional Japanese cuisine.
Sporting a new, inviting look is Tsumura at Ayala Triangle, Makati. This Japanese restaurant is a great place to bet your money on, with ultra-fresh sashimi and sushi prepared by skilled chefs, you’ll surely get value for what you pay. The Chirashi Kyo (P880) is a must-have especially if you want to treat yourself.
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3/F, The Shops at Ayala Triangle, Legazpi Village, Makati
6. Now Now Canteen
This is for you if: You want innovative dishes that blow your mind.
Prepare to be blown away at Now Now. This contemporary canteen and fermentation lab is on a mission to create sustainable, unique, and meticulously prepared dishes. Food is reimagined and elevated, like the Tortang Talong Okonomiyaki (P420), Machang (P345), and Dandan Chao Mian (P310).
View their Instagram account
GF497-C Rosa Building, Calbayog, corner L. Esteban, Mandaluyong
5. Benny and Cherie
This is for you if: You like the best of both worlds of coffee and cocktails.
Benny and Cherie is the best of both worlds. Upon entering, you’ll be welcomed into a cozy cafe where you can enjoy brunch dishes like Tapa Eggs Benny (P425) and Hot Buttermilk Chicken Sandwich (P395). And when it’s time to go get wild, find the secret door that leads to Cherie—a spot to lay back and relax with cocktails and bar chow.
View Benny’s menu on Booky
View Cherie’s menu on Booky
Katipunan Ext, JSO Bldg, Project 4, Quezon City,
4. Azadore
This is for you if: You want a homey restaurant to enjoy special occasions.
Azadore by Chef Tatung is the very definition of homey and hearty comfort food. Azadore offers a wide space, featuring different areas of the “house”, perfect for all kinds of celebrations—be it dates, birthdays, and reunions. Start with the Truffle Chips (P380), then follow with the Gambas Pizza (P980), and Paella Mixta (P1,200).
View menu on Booky
111 Sct Fernandez St cor Sct Torillo St, Quezon City, Diliman
3. Kazu Cafe
This is for you if: You want to be wowed by Japanese desserts.
From the minds behind Kazunori Japanese Restaurant comes the visually stunning Kazu Cafe. The interiors are vibrant and nothing short of eye-catching, but their drinks and desserts truly take the spotlight. We recommend the Musk Melon Kakigori (P650) and Kazu Cafe Tiramisu (P320).
View menu on Booky
G/F, 2301 Chino Roces Ave, Mazda Makati, Magallanes
2. Inato
This is for you if: You want an intimate Filipino dining experience.
Headed by Chef JP Cruz, former sous chef of Toyo, Inato aims to take Filipino dining to a whole new level. This intimate 6-seater dining area offers an unforgettable experience, showcasing Chef JP’s culinary expertise and Inato’s dedication to celebrating the rich diversity of Filipino cuisine.
Through its thoughtfully curated à la carte menu, the restaurant not only satisfies your hunger but also broadens your understanding of the bold and vibrant flavors of the Philippines.
View menu on Booky
2316 Chino Roces Ave, The Alley at Karrivin, Magallanes, Makati
1. Hapag
This is for you if: You want an unforgettable Filipino fine dining experience.
Hapag, moving from Katipunan to Rockwell, proves that Filipino food is timeless. This fine-dining restaurant is an invitation to feast and celebrate, especially in the company of loved ones. Their expertly crafted tasting menu draws inspiration from various regions of the Philippines, showcasing native ingredients and authentic flavors that deepen your appreciation for Filipino culture and gastronomy.
View menu on Booky
7/F, Hidalgo Dr, The Balmori Suites, Rockwell, Rockwell Center, Makati
Whether you’re a casual foodie or a culinary connoisseur, one thing’s for sure, there’s always something for your palate. And as Metro Manila’s culinary landscape continues to change, evolve, and push boundaries, you can count on Booky to keep you updated on the tastiest eats around the city.
Want to discover more of the best places in the Metro? Download Booky today and be first in line for the latest news, hottest promos, and biggest discounts on all things food!