Tastes as old as time
Time has changed many things in Metro Manila. Over the years, the trends and concepts in the food world have brought all kinds of amazing restaurants. But despite this, we can’t deny the beauty of the classics.
These classics have withstood the test of time, and city growing around them. If you’d like to take a trip down memory lane, we’ve got you. Check this list out for some of the oldest restaurants in Metro Manila.
The 90’s
Cafe Juanita – Kapitolyo
Since 1990
Located in their second home in West Capitol Drive in Kapitolyo Pasig, Cafe Juanita has been a neighborhood favorite. Inspite of the restaurant boom in the area, this place continues to pack itself to the brim and provide great Filipino dishes to its guests. Enjoy its kitschy details and treats for the eyes thanks to its eclectic and over the top Asian-inspired interiors.
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2 United St., Kapitolyo, Pasig
(02) 632-0357
The 80’s
Ilustrado – Intramuros
Since 1989
Ilustrado is a fine dining Filipino-Spanish restaurant that has been operating since 1989 inside the historic walled city, Intramuros.
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744 Calle Real Del Palacio, Intramuros, Manila
(02) 527 3674
The 70’s
Cafe Adriatico – Malate
Since 1979
Cafe Adriatico is a 36-year old Filipino-Spanish bistro located in the heart of Manila. It is a pioneer and the iconic flagship restaurant of the LJC group of restaurants. Despite being old, one cannot discount the old charm it continually brings to its loyal patrons, including stars and politicians.
Reservations are accepted
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1790 Remedios Circle, M. Adriatico St., Malate, Manila
(02) 738-8220
Via Mare – Greenbelt 1
Since 1975
Via Mare has been around for more than 4 decades and continues to provide delicious, classic, Filipino food. They serve meals like Sinigang na Hipon, Crispy Pata, and Filipino meryendas like Bibingka.
Fun Fact: The first branch opened in the area where Greenbelt now stands, and was focused on seafood dishes.
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G/F Greenbelt 1, Greenbelt Drive, Ayala Center, Makati
(02) 726-8931
Korea Garden – Jupiter St.
Since 1974
The country’s first romance with Korean food started in 1974 when the first Korean restaurant opened its doors. A hundred other Korean restos have come and gone, but the one that started it all still remains.
No reservations accepted
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128 Jupiter St., Bel-Air, Makati
(02) 895-5443
The 50’s
Shantung – West Triangle
Since 1958
Shantung Restaurant first opened its doors in August of 1958. With only by word of mouth, this hole-in-the-wall Chinese restaurant gained traction, making generations of people come together through authentic Chinese food and special get togethers. What’s the best part of the dining experience here at Shantung? Their authentic Mandarin dishes which will surely transport you to the streets of China. No wonder they’ve been in the food industry for a very long time!
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96 West Avenue, Philam Homes, West Triangle, Quezon City
(02) 928-4409
Barrio Fiesta – SM Megamall
Since 1958
Barrio Fiesta is all about delicious Filipino home-cooked dishes, and it started this way when Sixta Evangelista Ongpauco opened the first Barrio Fiesta by transforming her home along EDSA. Since then it’s become a go-to for Filipino Celebrations.
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4/F SM Megamall, Ortigas, Mandaluyong
(02) 635-5944
Sincerity Cafe – Binondo
Since 1956
Their Fried Chicken is one of a kind, good to the last bite, crispy-tender, best tasting chicken in Town! Try their renowned Kiam Pong fried rice, originated by founder Lim Bee Uy herself.
No reservations accepted
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497 ET Yuchengco St (formerly Nueva), Binondo, Manila
(02) 241-9991
The Original Savory – Anonas
Since 1950
The Original Savory has been around for ages, known most notably for their delicious fried chicken and gravy. They serve delicious Chinese and Filipino dishes, and have been around since the 50’s. Their first branch was in Escolta.
No reservations accepted
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2 Anonas cor Aurora Blvd, Project 4, Quezon City
(02) 421-6868
The 40’s
Little Quiapo – Diliman
Since 1949
It’s never not a good time to have some Little Quiapo Halo Halo, which we recommend. Serving that unforgettable pinoy dessert since 1949, this quaint restaurant located in the quiet community of Diliman QC has attracted guests for various family celebrations.
Reservations are accepted
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90 Malakas St, Diliman, Quezon City
(02) 922-4131
Max’s Restaurant – Malate
Since 1945
Who has not eaten at Max’s? With their competitive advertising and almost known by heart menu, this place will always be an oldie but a goodie.
Insider tip: Enjoy Buy 1 Get 1 Chicken Sisig Rice Bowl and Sago't Gulaman at Max's with Booky! Read more here.
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998 Roxas Blvd. corner Remedios Street, Malate, Manila
(02) 404-3556
The 30’s
The Aristocrat Restaurant – Roxas Blvd.
Since 1936
When doors first opened for this 75-year old restaurant, it was merely a small business venture for husband and wife Alex and Engracia Reyes. With their spread aptly described as “Food fit for Royalty”, Aristocrat has been and forever will be a family favorite.
Reservations are accepted
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432 San Andres St. cor Roxas Blvd., Malate, Manila
(02) 524-7671
The 20’s
Ma Mon Luk – Quiapo
Since 1920
Serving their famous Chicken Mami and Siopao since the ’20s, this restaurant seem to have a special place in the hearts of our parents.
No reservations accepted
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545 Quezon Blvd., Quiapo, Manila
(02) 733-7596
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