Delish News: New Restaurants, Menus, and Pop-ups in Manila in July 2023

After a wave of restaurant and café openings in the past six months, it is only natural for us to expect new establishments that will satisfy our love for food in the second half of the year. The exciting part? Manila has consistently given birth to new food places where we can munch and drink with our loved ones. From Kiji Bakehouse to Fauna Manila and Lusso by Margarita Forés, bring the entire family to try out world-class cuisines and expertly crafted beverages at these newly opened food spots this July!

Kiji Bakehouse

Adding to the roster of freshly opened pastry shops in Manila is Kiji Bakehouse, a store that sells sweet and savory croissants such as Moist Lemon Loaf (P170), Matcha Pistachio Cube Croissant (P260), Cheese Jalapeño Cornloaf (P160), and Ferrero Croissant (P220), among others. For pizza enthusiasts, the bakery offers the tangy Pizza Margherita (P220), which is generously filled with mozzarella and topped with cherry tomatoes. Despite being a newcomer to the city’s food scene, the store has quickly garnered an impressive following of nearly 4,000 (and counting) on Instagram.

Location: Kiji Bakehouse, 26th Street, Corner 7th Avenue, Taguig

Fauna Manila

Specializing in flavorful cocktails and liquors, Fauna Manila is one of the newest bars on the bustling road of Forbestown in Bonifacio Global City (BGC). As soon as you step inside the bistro, you’ll be greeted with modern furnishings, sleek black walls, and mood lighting that establish the perfect atmosphere for drinking. For starters, order the refreshing Amaretto Sour, which is a combination of lemon, marshmallow, egg, chocolate, and Amaretto. For adventurous drinkers, try the velvety Dark Secrets.

Location: Fauna Manila, Forbestown Road, Bonifacio Global City

Manam’s Mama Nams

Filipino-owned restaurant Manam’s success led to the birth of Mama Nam, an establishment that offers popular grilled fares such as Chicken Paa (P295), Isaw (P55/stick), Whole Bangus (P390), Liempo (P295), Whole Pusit (P445), and more. Also on the menu are pancit options such as Squid Ink Palabok (P155), Mama Nams Batchoy (P345), and Pancit Bihon (P100). Open until 2 AM, this Makati-based restaurant is the perfect place to cure hunger and hangovers.

Location: Manam’s Mama Nams, 832a Antonio Arnaiz Avenue, Legazpi Village, Makati

Lusso by Margarita Forés

Lusso by Margarita Forés combines retro and modern design elements to create a comfortable dining setting. Foodies of all ages will be happy to know that this world-class restaurant presents various culinary delights, such as Barquillos, Dry-Aged Rib Eye Steak, Deviled Eggs With Nomad Caviar, Luxe Clubhouse Sandwich, and Chive Mousse & Caviar. Invigorating libations such as the citrusy Cocchi Americano Spritz and Tiziano Reno are also on offer.

Location: Lusso by Margarita Forés, G/F The Balmori Suites, Rockwell Center, Makati

Tsokolateria

Dedicated to chocolate lovers, Tsokolateria is the latest addition to Tagaytay’s growing dessert scene. Among its best-sellers are Tablea Waffle (P170), Homemade Ensaymada (P300), Strawberies Overload (P340), Tablea Champorado (P220), and Pinoy Tsokolate Ah Fondue (P300). Aside from sweet treats, the restaurant serves mouthwatering breakfast meals such as Longganisa Fundido (P365), Spicy Tuyo With Butter Cacao (P295), and more.

Location: Tsokolateria, The Boutique Bed & Breakfast, 45 Emilio Aguinaldo Hwy, Silang Junction South, Tagaytay

BASK

A concept store by Aurora Coffee Roasters, BASK, which proudly opened its door last June 12, offers a tasty selection of beverages that will satisfy your coffee cravings. One of them is called Bask Special, which is a lightly sweetened latte with tiramisu cream on top. If you prefer to craft your own coffee at home, feel free to drop by and purchase the café’s available coffee bags, such as the toffee-flavored Vietnam Dalat, the sweet Brazil Fazenda Rainha, and the fruity Honduras Finca La Cumbre.

Location: BASK, 180 Avenue Mabini, San Juan, 1500 Kalakhang Maynila