Hidden gems are better this way.
Payday weekend typically means more spending, more traffic, and definitely this too: More food. And while we can’t do anything about the traffic situation, the Booky app can fix the spending part.
Booky is an offline restaurant directory with over 15,000 restaurants in its database where you can check their contact details, locations, and menus. Currently, 400 of Manila’s top restaurants are Booky Prime partner restaurants where you can instantly book a table and get discounts of up to P500 off your total bill.
Check out these 10 restaurants; one of them might just be your new favorite hangout spot!
View all 400 partner restaurants
The Red Dot Modern Japanese Bistro – Legaspi Village
The Red Dot is a casual bistro by Chef Chris Oronce, and it serves Japanese favorites with a modern touch. It’s for Makati locals looking for a hearty office lunch or after-work hangout. It’s not for those looking for ramen. We recommend the donburi rice bowls, sushi, and bento specials. Our insider tip: The restroom inside the restaurant is only for females. The male restroom is located outside the place, in the building lobby.
View their Instagram account
110 C. Palanca Jr St, Legazpi Village, Makati
(02) 818-1551
Cucina – Marco Polo Ortigas
Cucina is an international buffet showcasing diverse live action stations. It’s for friends and families looking for a relaxing place to indulge. It’s not for those looking for a quick meal. We recommend the Paella and their Green Thai Curry. Our insider tip: They have free (and fast) internet!
24/F Marco Polo, Meralco Ave, Ortigas, Pasig
(02) 720-7777
VU’s – Marco Polo Ortigas
Vu’s is a sky bar and lounge that features a 180 degree unobstructed view of Manila. It offers a vast selection of cocktails, wines and other spirits, and a well-curated line-up of dishes. It’s for chill dates or barkada nights out, especially when you want a great view of the city. It’s not really for family get-togethers with the oldies. We recommend the Pan-Seared Scallops and the Dark Chocolate Tart. Our insider tip: The serving sizes may look small, but they’re definitely worth it.
Ahi Hawaii – Maginhawa
Ahi Hawaii is a Hawaiian-inspired hole-in-the-wall that offers a chill beachside vibe within the city. It’s for diners willing to trek the streets of Maginhawa for unique food finds and experiences. It’s not for those looking for a wide menu selection. We recommend the Poke Bowls, Malasadas, Spam Musubi, and their fries. Our insider tip: They’re currently closed on Sundays.
View their Instagram account
#3 Maginhawa Street, Teacher’s Village, Quezon City
(0917) 827-4919
Grind Bistro – BGC
Grind Bistro is an premium burger joint that’s all about creating an imaginative, chef-driven dining experience that gives all senses a night-out. Their signature USDA beef burgers are served with house-crafted buns, condiments, and sauces. It’s for diners looking for a unique spin on their premium burgers. It’s not for people on a diet. We recommend the Poke Nachos, Grind Burger, and the Shrimp Bucatini. Our insider tip: Bread haters, beware: You might just fall in love with their highly praised brioche buns
View their Instagram account
G/F Net Park, 5th Ave, Fort Bonifacio
(02) 946-3870
Larry’s Cafe & Bar – Serendra
Larry’s Café and Bar is a cozy restaurant serving continental dishes and wide selection of cocktails. It’s for couples or friends looking for a chill place to unwind on the weekend or after work. It’s not for working lunches or big meetings. We recommend their Hummus and Rosemary Chicken. Our insider tip: Not only are they known for food and drinks but also their shisha, which are perfect any time of the day or for pre-gaming with your friends.
G/F Serendra, 26th St, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig
(02) 856-0527
Fely J’s Kitchen – BGC, Greenbelt 5
Fely J’s Kitchen is a family-style restaurant that features Filipino favorites and other Asian specialties. It’s for group diners who want the familiar taste of home, especially for balikbayans. It’s not for those who prefer Western over Asian cuisine. We recommend the Gising-Gising, Crispy Hito, and Fresh Lumpia. Our insider tip: Love kropek? They’ll serve it to you as a complimentary appetizer!
Cafe Havana – Greenbelt 3
Cafe Havana is a casual restobar where founder, Larry J. Cruz, pays homage to Cuban life and their delicious hearty dishes. It’s for couples or smaller groups looking for a chill place to have intimate conversations around a cozy ambiance (music included!). It’s not for big families unwilling to explore slightly unfamiliar cuisines. We recommend the Paella Valenciana, plus the pasta section for their buffets. Our insider tip: They also sell unique cigars.
G/F Greenbelt 3, Esperanza St, Ayala Center, Makati
(02) 757-4370
Cafe Adriatico – Various Branches
The flagship of the LJC Restaurant Group, Café Adriatico serves a full menu of Filipino, Spanish and continental fare. It’s for casual lunch or dinner bonding sessions with your friends or family. It’s not for health buffs who want a wide salad selection. We recommend the Spareribs Adobo, Salpicao Rice, Callos and authentic Spanish hot chocolate, “Chocolate Eh”. Our insider tip: Their Malate branch is open nearly 24 hours (7AM-6AM) on weekends.
Modern Sichuan – BGC
Modern Sichuan is a modern Chinese restaurant that features popular dishes especially prepared by chefs from the Sichuan province of China. It’s for groups or families looking for a great lunch or dinner option. It’s not for solo diners or busy office-goers who want a quick lunch to-go. We recommend the Mapo Tofu and their Lamb Chops. Our insider tip: While Sichuan cuisine is typically spicy, Modern Sichuan serves non-spicy dishes as well.
View all branches
View their Instagram account
(02) 829-8352
Insider tip: Want free dessert? Book > dine > submit feedback to claim!
So, which restaurants are you most excited to try? Add them to your Favorites and Must Try lists on the app so you never have to miss their updates! Don’t forget to tag us on your food adventures on Instagram @bookyapp and #bookymanila.
Bye for now, diet.
