From left: Lampara’s Lapu-Lapu, Hokkaido scallops, and Oxtail dishes, to be served on the Valentine’s Day menu. Photographed by Fern Dy
Romance is on the menu. Here’s where to take your Valentine’s date in Manila.
Sans the Eiffel Tower and the Seine, Manila has its own charms, which transform it into a city of love. With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, the first step to planning a memorable evening is choosing a restaurant for a romantic date night.
This year, Valentine’s Day falls on a Friday: meaning many lovers will be juggling work before slipping into celebration mode. And let’s be honest, forgetting to make plans is a risk best avoided. Thankfully, Metro Manila is brimming with various dining destinations, from intimate hideaways to luxurious fine dining spots to set the scene for your love stories.
Below, find an extensive list of restaurants all over Metro Manila to make your Valentine’s Day celebrations extra special.
Bar Flora, Quezon City
Flowers? For Valentine’s Day? Groundbreaking. Even more so is a “botanical forward” gin bar tucked in buzzy Quezon City. Explore a variety of cocktails with very cheeky names and inspired ingredients such as the “Matchamaccalit” or the savory “What the Duck” for some date night giggles.
Half Saints, Quezon City
The best relationships, like the best meals, are built on balance, surprise, and a little bit of magic. With a menu full of creative vegetarian and pescetarian dishes like the Halibut Ochazuke, the Vegan Tantanmen, and more, a meal at Half Saints is best enjoyed when shared.
Habanero, Quezon City
The beloved Cubao Expo haunt opened a new branch in Don A. Roces Ave in Quezon City, and this space is arguably better suited for a date (assuming that the alternative, cinephilic atmosphere in Cubao Expo isn’t your scene.) The signature Lechon Habanero can be customized to “heat level,” so adjust according to how much more “spice” the relationship needs.
ITO, Makati
Intimate, poetic, and designed to impress. If your Valentine appreciates subtlety and craftsmanship, this is where you let the drinks do the talking.
Ember, Makati
At this restaurant in Makati, simple ingredients are transformed to give way to complex, fire-kissed flavors. An open kitchen encourages thoughtful conversation, and if you’re dating someone who enjoys the overall dining experience as much as the dishes, this is the place to go.
Lampara, Makati
This stylish spot serves modern Filipino food with creative twists. The dim lighting and cozy interiors make it great for an intimate dinner, especially if you and your date enjoy trying out unique flavors.
12/10, Makati
For a more unique and intimate experience, 12/10’s mix of Japanese-inspired dishes and craft cocktails makes for a fun, flavorful night out. The small, minimalist space adds to the cozy vibe, making it a great spot if you want something different from the usual Valentine’s dinner.
Tetsuo, Makati
This collegiate favorite is known for its crispy, golden fried chicken. If your idea of romance is low-key, unpretentious, yet flavorful, this is your spot.
The Curator, Makati
Coffee by day, cocktails by night. Just like love, it’s all about the right timing. Whether it’s your first Valentine’s date, fifth anniversary, or a spontaneous “just because” night out, this café-turned-cocktail-bar sets the perfect scene. A romantic tip: ask the bartender about their specialized cocktail menu which takes inspiration from various personalities in pop culture. Choose a drink for your date, and let them choose one for you.
Café Ysabel, San Juan
This 1927 Spanish ancestral home-turned-restaurant has an old-school charm that makes it feel like a step back in time. The candlelit tables and vintage interiors give it a romantic feel, perfect for couples who appreciate a classic, intimate setting.
Canton Road, Taguig
For a fancier date night, Canton Road delivers refined Chinese dishes and an elegant setup. It’s a good option if you’re in the mood to go all out with high-quality dim sum, Peking duck, and top-notch service.
CRU Steakhouse, Taguig
Nothing says “I’m serious about you” like a perfectly seared steak at this refined steakhouse. Pair it with a bold red wine, and enjoy a meal as rich and indulgent as your romance is.
Tartufo, Taguig
If you’re in the mood for comforting Italian food in a cozy setting, Tartufo is a great choice for Valentine’s. The truffle dishes are a must-try, and the intimate ambiance makes it easy to focus on good food and good company.
Fable, Bonifacio Global City
Designed by furniture designer Kenneth Cobonpue, this cafe and lounge is a dream come true with its whimsical interiors. They also offer a curated Valentine’s Menu that includes a Pork Iberico with Apple Sauce entrée, and a raspberry sorbet dessert. Come for the aesthetic, stay for the experience, and leave feeling like the main characters in your own fairytale.
The Attic, Bonifacio Global City
This cocktail bar has a warm, inviting feel if you prefer an intimate spot away from the crowds. It’s perfect for couples who want to enjoy comfort food, cocktails, and a cozy space to enjoy the night.
Casa Buenas, Pasay
This restaurant at Newport World Resorts serves dishes that blend local flavors with Spanish cuisine in a setting reminiscent of an old ancestral home. With warm hospitality and dishes made for savoring, it’s a place that feels both familiar and special, just like the best kind of love.
Sensei, Parañaque
Sushi is almost always the answer, and the fresh flavors do all the flirting at this casual sushi dining spot in Parañaque.
The Nest Dining, Alabang
With its rooftop setting and city views, The Nest is a good choice if you’re looking for something scenic. The cool breeze, live music, and great cocktails add to the romantic atmosphere, making it a great spot for a Valentine’s date.
The Black Pig, Alabang
For couples who love food and wine, The Black Pig is relaxed but upscale. Their charcuterie and European-inspired dishes pair perfectly with a bottle of wine, making it an easy pick for a laid-back yet special Valentine’s dinner.
Villa Parmigiano, Alabang West
If you’re looking for classic Italian comfort food, Villa Parmigiano would hit the spot. The warm, rustic setting and generous pasta and pizza portions make it an easy and satisfying pick for a Valentine’s date.
By CELINE LAGUNDI and DAPHNE SAGUN. Photographs by FERN DY. Digital associate editor: Chelsea Sarabia. Producer: Julian Rodriguez. Digital multimedia artist: Myc Priestley. Photographer’s assistants: Miguel Tarrosa, Renzo Navarro. Shot on location at ITO, Lampara, and 12/10.
