The couple that eats together, stays together.
Makati is known as the king of all business districts in Metro Manila and one of the hottest locations for unique restaurant concepts in the city.
READ MORE: Check out the Top 10 Best Restaurants in Makati this month!
In this list, we sorted out some perfect spots for your next monthsary or valentine’s dates in the heart of the city where you can enjoy a romantic and intimate date with your special someone. We’ve got you covered from delis to authentic sushi, so read on and get ready to take some notes.
PS: We listed some of our recommended dishes so you won’t have to worry about ordering for two.
FINE DINING RESTAURANTS
Blackbird – Nielson Tower
Located in the heart of Makati, Blackbird is an upscale contemporary European and Asian restaurant boasting some of the most high-end interiors the Metro has to offer, and it is headed by none other than Chef Colin Mackay of Sala Bistro and People’s Palace. The Manila International Air Terminal, which was built and used to stand in the same location in 1937, was the inspiration behind its aviation-themed design.
Why it’s perfect for dates: If you plan to make them feel like a Crazy Rich Asian for one day, then this is the resto where you should go on a date. To add, they also have different brunch and dinner menus so you can totally “customize” the date exactly how you/your date likes it.
Recommended dishes: Prawn Scotch Quail Eggs, The Blackbird Burger, and Beef Short Ribs.
Approx. Price For Two: ₱3,500+
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Nielson Tower, Ayala Triangle 1209 Makati
09178892782 | 88284888 | 88281937
Kyo-to – Legaspi Village
Kyo-to is a fine-dining Japanese restaurant by Chef Ryohei Kawamoto. They are best known for serving authentic kaiseki ryori, also known as dishes that explain Japanese history.
Why it’s perfect for dates: It’s a fun, unique, and in a way, adventurous, eating experience-slash-date. Not only will you get to know your date’s food preferences but you’ll also see how open they are to new things.
Recommended dishes: Anything Chef Ryohei serves that day!
Approx. Price For Two: ₱4,000+
By reservations only
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G/F 119 C. Palanca Jr. St, Legazpi Village, Makati
(02) 8805-7743
Chef Jessie – Rockwell
With a refreshing view of the garden and pool, Chef Jessie at Rockwell Club never fails to deliver international cuisine at its finest. Dining at Rockwell’s premiere fine dining establishment provides you with an unforgettable sensory experience that starts the minute you enter the elegantly decorated restaurant and ends long after you take your last bite of dessert.
Why it’s perfect for dates: Aside from their mouthwatering dishes, Chef Jessie’s ambiance is cozy and perfect for intimate dinners. Chef Jessie herself also walks around the restaurant and personally greets diners, you’ll know and feel that you’re in good hands when you dine here.
Approx. Price For Two: ₱3,500+
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G/F Amorsolo Square, Amorsolo Dr., Poblacion, Makati
(02) 8890-6543
Toyo Eatery – Pasong Tamo
Toyo Eatery is a Filipino Eatery that takes the essence of Philippine flavors, traditions, and techniques and creates a gastronomic experience that is epitomized by originality, flavor, and finesse. With something for everybody, Toyo offers a full six-course tasting menu, a short three-course menu, and à la carte options!
Why it’s perfect for dates: Toyo Eatery’s dishes are not your usual Filipino food bonus as well if you both love the local cuisine. Each dish is unique and will surprise you and your date so it’s far from the usual date nights.
Recommended dishes: We recommend experiencing their tasting menu which comes in either six-courses or three.
Approx. Price For Two: ₱2,500+
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The Alley at Karrivin, Karrivin Plaza, 2316 Chino Roces Ave., Makati
(0917) 720-8630
Old Manila – The Peninsula Manila
Old Manila isn’t a new name in the fine dining scene. Time and time again, the brand has long been associated with elegance and world-class service you’re sure to have a great time in every visit. It can be pricey but dining at Old Manila is worth every penny.
Why it’s perfect for dates: It’s up there as one of the ultimate show-stoppers in the fine dining scene, not only do people drop by for a good meal but it’s a place to impress. Good food, great service, beautiful ambiance? It’s the whole package for a perfect date night.
Recommended dishes: Ahi Tuna Tartare, Poached Tasmanian Trout, Old Manila Caesar Salad
Approx. Price For Two: ₱4,100+
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G/F The Peninsula Manila, Makati Ave., Urdaneta, Makati
(02) 8887-2888; (02) 8887-2205
CASUAL DINING RESTAURANTS
LUSSO by Margarita Fores – Rockwell / Legaspi
LUSSO by Margarita Fores promises the best of leisurely dining. They offer creative, indulgent, and elevated comfort food crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
Why it’s perfect for dates: Nothing more romantic than a fancy French-Italian dinner date at Lusso! The space itself is quite intimate with the perfect ambient lighting and indoor or outdoor seating options. They also have an extensive beverage menu to pair with their *chef’s kiss* dishes.
Recommended dishes: Barquillos Cylinders, Taglierini Di Lusso, Lamb Shank Osso Buco
Approx. Price For Two: ₱3,500+
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Nikkei – Rockwell / Legaspi
Nikkei is the first Peruvian-Japanese sushi bar in Manila headed by Argentinian Chef Christian Cejas. “Nikkei” is a term that describes Peruvian cuisine culturally inspired by the Japanese; it is the latest food trend in Europe.
Why it’s perfect for dates: Their dishes are interesting conversation starters and their setup is perfect for dates. Plus, if one of you isn’t good with chopsticks, now’s the time to impress by either being a good teacher or a good student.
Recommended dishes: Salmon Belly Nigiri, Miso Kurobuta, Seared Tuna, and Parmesan Scallops.
Approx. Price For Two: ₱2,000+
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Romulo Cafe – Bel-Air
Romulo Cafe is a classic Filipino restaurant that’s a tribute to Carlos P. Romulo, who was a Filipino journalist, soldier, and former diplomat who served 8 Philippine Presidents. This restaurant is the perfect place to be for couples who are interested in historic memorabilia, photos, and other artifacts from iconic Filipino families.
Why it’s perfect for dates: They serve elevated homemade food that’s familiar but different and classy enough compared to your quick karinderia/cafeteria dishes. It’s perfect if both of you can’t get enough of Filipino food.
Recommended dishes: Tito Greg’s Kare-Kare, Boneless Crispy Pata Binagoongan, Lola Virginia’s Chicken Relleno
Approx. Price For Two: ₱1,500+
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148 Jupiter St cor Comet St., Bel-Air, Makati
(02) 8822-0286
Single Origin – Rockwell
Single Origin is the second collaboration between Carlo Lorenzana and Dodgie Vialogo, the same duo behind Nikkei fame. They serve hefty brunch plates, sweet/savory waffles, and premium coffee beverages.
Why it’s perfect for dates: Whether you’re looking for a quick coffee date, a long lunch date, or a chill dinner and drinks date, this restaurant’s got all that you’re looking for.
Recommended dishes: Fried Chicken with Waffles, Surf and Turf Pizza, Mixed Berry Pancakes
Approx. Price For Two: ₱1,250+
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G/F Edades Tower Garden, Amorsolo Dr, Rockwell, Makati
(02) 8772-6259; (0995) 914-4137
CDP Global Table – Rockwell
CDP stands for Chef Du Partie and is a global restaurant helmed by Malou Fores (of Mamou and Recovery Food), Katrina Kuhn-Alcantara (of Mesclun & Chuck’s Deli) and Kristine del Gallego-Locsin. Its menu is inspired by the best of what Paris, New York, and Manila have to offer. If the weather is good you can try dining al fresco for a different ambience.
Why it’s perfect for dates: You can have a taste of dishes from famous cities all over the world without having to spend on airfare. Plus, if you dine al fresco, the blue skies or the twinkling stars set up a lovely romantic atmosphere.
Recommended dishes: Maine Lobster Vongole, Truffle Maccheroni, and Triade for dessert.
Approx. Price For Two: ₱1,450+
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G/F Power Plant Mall, Rockwell, Makati
(0917) 832-9828
Your Local – Legaspi Village
Your Local is a neighborhood bistro serving modern Southeast Asian dishes. Opened by Chef Denny Antonino and Nicco Santos, the restaurant has a hipster meets industrial vibe and serves all-day brunch together with its standard menu. Chef Nicco recently opened a similar concept called Hey Handsome in BGC.
Why it’s perfect for dates: It’s located along a quiet street in Makati in case you want somewhere intimate. Also, if you’re into appreciating fusion food; New York-like industrial interiors; and artistic plating, then this is the place for you.
Recommended dishes: Lamb Rendang, Torched Salmon Donburi, and their 24-Hour Sous Vide Corn Fed USDA Choice Beef Short Rib.
Approx. Price For Two: ₱2,000+
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Universal LMS Bldg., 106 Esteban Street, Legaspi Village, Makati
(02) 8823-6206; (0917) 654-3355
Va Bene Pasta Deli – Petron EDSA
Va Bene (which means “it’s good” in Italian) has been named one of Manila’s best Italian restaurants one too many times and is known for serving fresh handmade pasta by Italian Chef Massimo Veronesi. Read our full feature here.
Why it’s perfect for dates: Their dishes can help you recreate that Lady and the Tramp scene. Plus, they serve one of the best truffle pasta dishes in case you’re both feeling a bit fancy.
Recommended dishes: Organic Eggs Tagliatelle, Portobello Mushrooms Agnolotti, Braised Veal Cheeks
Approx. Price For Two: ₱2,000+
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2/F Petron Gas Station, EDSA, Dasmariñas Village, Makati
(02) 8556-9442; (0915) 229-1828
Mamou Too! – Rockwell
Tagged as ‘A Home Kitchen’ and best known for their steaks and pasta, Mamou has been included on Tatler Magazine’s annual Best Restaurants List for 7 straight years (which is the same number of years they’ve been operating). Mamou Too! is owned and operated by the same group behind Mamou and CDP Global Table. The other branch is located at Serendra, BGC.
Why it’s perfect for dates: If your date is past salads and soups and wants to go straight to the heavy stuff, your date will certainly enjoy the variety of steaks, seafood, and sides offered at this resto.
Recommended dishes: Linguine Al Nero, Lorenzo’s Truffle Cream, Angus Ribeye USDA Prime Grade Steak
Approx. Price For Two: ₱3,800+
Reservations are accepted
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G/F Power Plant Mall, Rockwell, Makati
(02) 8246-9069; loc. 660
12/10 – Guijo St.
12/10 is a popular Japanese izakaya-inspired restaurant owned by Thea de Rivera and Gab Bustos of The Girl + The Bull. Their second baby – a tribute to their anniversary – is a customize-your-own degustation concept. The small plates pair perfectly with their cocktails, which are some of the best in the Metro. Indisputable hits include their salmon kushiyaki, katsu sando, and toro onigiri.
Why it’s perfect for dates: It’s a sophisticated-looking restaurant where you can get small plates and a wide variety of cocktails. If your date is artsy, then they will love both the looks of the interiors as well as the looks of the drinks and the dishes.
Recommended dishes: Salmon Kushiyaki, Katsu Sando, Spicy Tuna
Approx. Price For Two: ₱1,800+
Reservations are accepted
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7635 Guijo St, San Antonio Village,Makati
(0915) 663-2823
Grace Park – One Rockwell
Grace Park by Margarita Fores (Asia’s Best Female Chef for 2016) is a farm-to-table concept offering diners dishes made only from the freshest, organic ingredients. The vintage and calming interiors make the dining experience extra special.
Why it’s perfect for dates: Their rustic interiors can be used as a charming background for date photo ops. Plus, if your date is particular with the ingredients of the dishes they’re eating, you can take them here.
Recommended dishes: Roast Organic Duck & Fruit, Muscovado Beef Belly, and River Prawns & Anchovy-Butter.
Approx. Price For Two: ₱2,200+
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G/F One Rockwell, Rockwell Drive, Rockwell, Makati
(02) 8843-7275 | (0939) 934-7223
Ikomai – Salcedo Village
Ikomai, which means “Let’s go!” in Japanese, is a casual dining Japanese restaurant by Chef James Antolin and Nagoya Chef Hide. This restaurant offers Japanese street and comfort food with kushiage twist.
Why it’s perfect for dates: You can both watch the chefs prepare the dishes if you two don’t know what to talk about yet. However, if you have topic ideas, you should two go here for the urban garden feel and the unique dishes.
Recommended dishes: Tebasaki, Gyumotsu, Tachidon, Kakunidon
Approx. Price For Two: ₱1,800+
Reservations are accepted
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G/F ACI Bldg., 147 H.V. Dela Costa St, Salcedo Village, Makati
(02) 8816-4588; (0999) 887-0297
Lampara – Poblacion
Lampara is a Neo-Filipino bistro that serves up classic Filipino dishes reimagined in both flavor and form. A hole-in-the-wall restaurant located on the second floor of a renovated apartment complex, Lampara is the perfect place for you and your bae’s monthsary.
Why it’s perfect for dates: They have interesting dishes and alcoholic drinks you will both enjoy if you want somewhere dim, romantic, and not as chaotic as a bar or a super popular casual restaurant.
Notable dishes they offer: Rice Cups, Veal Steak, and Yema & Tsokolate
Approx. Price For Two: ₱2,000+
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5883 Enriquez St. Poblacion, Makati
(0917) 173-5883
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Think your date prefers other restaurants?
Check here: The Ultimate Guide to Restaurants in Makati
