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Katipunan Avenue is home to many students from the different universities in the area from Ateneo to UP Diliman. In pre-pandemic times Katipunan was a sprawling area filled with restaurants, cafes, and bars catering to the area’s student populace. Once the pandemic hit, many beloved Katip staples had to close down or limit operations.
Also Read: 7 Cool Bars in Katipunan for Your Next Night Out
With face-to-face classes resuming for many universities, it feels like the right time to go look back at the establishments that make Katip what it is today; from iconic bars to cafes, the undying Katip McDo, and more.
Walrus
Serving as the inspiration for this article, Walrus is a beloved establishment known by generations of university students in Katipunan. The Mexican-themed bar serves affordable food and alcoholic drinks including slushies, towers, and frozen pitchers. Walrus is best for a Friday night out after acing an exam— just watch your step on the way down.
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3/F 318 Katipunan Ave, Loyola Heights, Quezon City
(0917) 808-8332
Lan Kwai Speakeasy & Hongkong Cuisine
Look no further for a chill night out than this small slice of Kowloon mixed with Blade Runner-esque neon red lighting. Years after closing due to the pandemic and under new management, Lan Kwai tries to recapture the same magic it had by serving its iconic fishbowls that will make you Pa Tai.
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42 Esteban Abada, Loyola Heights Quezon City
(0917) 556 6004
Sweet Inspirations
On this list is one of the oldest remaining establishments in Katipunan, Sweet Inspirations. The place is known for its Mongolian Bowls and all-day breakfast. You can pick from combinations of meat and veggies to make a unique Mongolian Bowl. Hit this joint before starting a long day of classes to get energized!
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McDonald’s
Even though McDonald’s can be found just about anywhere, the Katipunan branch holds a special place in the hearts of nearby residents, broke students, and the Friday night partygoer. Head into McDo Katip after a night out to lay your head on the table, have a sober friend order BFF fries, and wait for your ride home.
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Tetsuo
Tetsuo is one of the hottest fusion restaurants in the metro, with its blend of Asian and Western cuisines as well as its trendy Japanese aesthetic. Be on the lookout for their buttermilk fried chicken, which took it from a once student-run stall into a successful restaurant with two branches to its name.
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Gino’s Brick Oven Pizza
Considered one of the best pizza places in Asia, Gino’s is the place to be when looking for Italian cuisine. With its varied selection of fresh cheeses used in salads, pasta, and pizzas, the place can be pricey. Yet, the smell of its brick oven pizzas never fails to invite customers to its doors year after year.
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Ababu Persian Kitchen
Ababu is another cornerstone for those in Katipunan. It serves cheap yet authentic Persian and Iranian food. Look to the shawarma rice meal for something familiar but if you’re feeling adventurous, their Sheik’s Pie is a great twist on the English Shepherd’s Pie.
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El Chapo’s
Found on a humble little stall along Esteban Abada and just a stone’s throw away from Tetsuo, El Chapo’s is perfect for students on a budget or those looking to get a quick bite to eat before heading to class. Beat the heat by getting the horchata!
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88 Esteban Abada St, Quezon City
(0920) 983 1619
Cover image is from Tetsuo’s Facebook
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