“Table for one, please.”
Dining solo usually calls for constant glances from the customers on the other table, pitying yourself as you watch the couple in front of you lovingly share a meal, or awkwardly fumbling to check your phone— only to find out no one’s texted. But this shouldn’t be the case. Eating alone should be an enjoyable experience for you and only you.
Whether you’re spending Valentine’s this year solo or a person who needs to flush out social rendezvous from their system, we’ve rounded up a list of restaurants in Metro Manila that are perfect for eating alone. After all, self-love is the best love!
Commune – Poblacion
Commune is a community cafe that specializes in its famous 3D foam latte art, but all the more for championing Philippine coffee. They also serve pastries and light meals to pair with their handcrafted drinks. From time to time, they host events here like open mic nights and poetry nights.
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: Many come to the third-wave coffee shop for its relaxing atmosphere, a fair share of electrical outlets, and reliable wifi. Revel in their excellent coffee and sit by the window to people-watch.
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36 Polaris cor Durban Street, Poblacion, Makati
(02) 8275-6324; (0919) 859-5848
Ikigai Kakigori – Makati
Similar to Korea’s Bingsu, the Japanese melt-in-your-mouth shaved ice dessert called Kakigōri gains most of its flavor from its sweet syrup and condensed milk. Ikigai Kakigori is the epitome of simplicity with its unassuming interiors and delicate dessert.
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: Their interiors are small and quaint as the café is still considered a secret spot for their Japanese dessert. Although it’s an intimate space, their servings are good enough for sharing, which means you can enjoy a big kakigori all to yourself.
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Xocolat – Loyola Heights
Introducing hot chocolate in all its glorious forms and flavors, Xocolat serves a variety of innovative chocolate-infused savory dishes such as white chocolate Blanco Pasta, Xocolat pork belly with cacao-bagoong sauce, and many more creative chocolate concoctions.
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: With its plush seats, wooden furniture, and rustic interiors, Xocolat exudes a homey vibe that welcomes people in groups, pairs, or even those unaccompanied. It’s quiet, and quaint, and the servings are perfect for one.
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Loyola Heights, Quezon City
(02) 8929-4186 | (0956) 384-6204
TETSUO – Poblacion
TETSUO is known for constantly reinventing and updating its brand. They serve Japanese cuisine that’s elevated to fit the modern palate at an affordable price. Try out their signature fried chicken, soba, baos, and katsudon in their own standout bar.
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: With its bright neon light interiors and cyberpunk-esque theme, you would think that TETSUO is an introvert’s nightmare. However, because its seating capacity is limited and small, many people just grab and go without a care in the world while the rest stay to party upstairs.
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8483 Kalayaan Ave, cor Matilde, Makati
Common Folk – White Plains
Common Folk is definitely not your common, run-of-the-mill coffee shop. Featuring a smart, minimalist interior and a menu full of quality coffee and filling meals, one visit is enough to find out why Common Folk is all about #NoBadDays.
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: From their fast wifi, a good amount of outlets, and plush sofa booths, Common Folk’s peaceful ambiance is conducive for productive studying, reading, and relishing in one’s company.
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79 Katipunan Ave. White Plains, Quezon City
(02) 8277-6357
Refinery – Rockwell
First gaining traction in its Rockwell branch, Refinery is a third-wave cafe that serves all-day breakfast and brunch items, international comfort dishes, light meals, and specialty coffee – but what sets it apart is that it also serves unlimited wine, sangria, beer, and Moscato you can sip happily in your leisure!
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: Aside from their unlimited alcoholic beverages, Refinery provides free wifi access, so you can watch videos, check out social media, or chat with friends online. Plus, they have outlets for your laptop charger as well as tables ideal for solo diners.
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Joya, Rockwell Makati
09778312879
YAYOI – Megamall
YAYOI is a contemporary Japanese restaurant offering set menu dining called Teishoku, which includes a balanced tray of rice, miso soup, tsukemono (Japanese pickles), an entrée, and a side dish.
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: Yayoi is an introvert’s haven. All you have to do is place your order through their efficient iPad ordering system and have your delicious Teishoku within 15 minutes!
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Nihonbashi Tei – various branches
Nihonbashi Tei is a humble izakaya that offers an extensive list of authentic Japanese specialties at fairly affordable prices. Their menu includes sushi, ramen, yakitori, curries, donburi, chirashi, and many more Japanese classics.
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: Nihonbashi Tei has private rooms available, but we recommend you make a reservation beforehand. You can also sit at the bar and watch the chefs at work while you wolf down their authentic fare and a glass of Asahi beer.
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806 Arnaiz Ave cor Amorsolo St, San Lorenzo, Makati
(02) 8818-8893
Mendokoro Ramenba – multiple branches
Serving arguably one of the best ramen bowls in Metro Manila, Mendokoro Ramenba is a 21-seater ramen joint from the people behind Alabang’s Ramen Yushoken.
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: Solo diners get priority seating despite the long lines since there’s limited space in the bar. You might also initially feel awkward sitting around groups, but don’t worry; you’ll be seated directly in front of the open kitchen where you can peacefully watch the chefs go.
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Recovery Food – multiple branches
Everyone finds comfort in breakfast food. Recovery food, however, takes that to the next level by serving hearty bowls of their spin on Filipino food. Craving for something salty? Try out their amadobo. Want something sweet? A feel-good bowl of alfonsorizo will do the trick!
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: Chances are, if you find yourself here, you and/or those around you are soothing a hangover after a night filled with drinks. So don’t worry, everyone’s just busy minding their own business having some good chow.
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Want some more? Just check out our blog for more posts like this! Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram @bookyapp and use #BookyManila when you dine out, to get a chance to be featured in our future posts!