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If one serving of ramen isn’t enough for you, we got your back. All you need is to download an app to get free extra noodles on your next visit to any Ramen Kuroda store.
Until Jan. 31, customers can get free extra Kaedama noodles for every order of any signature ramen (Aka, Shiro, or Kuro), Chashumen, Bari Kara Ramen, and set meals (excluding Bento Set Meals). This promo is available for dine-in, pick-up, and delivery, with orders paid through the Ramen Kuroda mobile app.
As a bonus, you can earn points with each order, which you can use to purchase Ramen Kuroda dishes from the app for up to 80% of your subtotal amount.
For trios who love ramen, Ramen Kuroda has another special offer! You and your buddies can share three bowls of ramen and six pieces of gyoza for only P780. Available in all branches until March 31, the Triple Treat Combo applies to dine-in and pick-up transactions only.
Prepare your chopsticks and be ready to slurp some ramen goodness from Ramen Kuroda! Download their app today and discover more deals.
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The Year of the Wood Snake is fast approaching, with this momentous day falling on Jan. 29, 2025. Gatherings with family and friends are a must for this special occasion, and the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria and Holiday Inn & Suites invite everyone to celebrate the Chinese New Year with them.
To mark this auspicious day, a traditional lion and dragon dance will be performed on Jan. 29, 2025, at 10 AM in front of the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria. This performance, signifying luck, prosperity, and positive energy, will continue throughout both hotels, spreading good fortune to all hotel guests and visitors.
Guests can celebrate wealth and success with Xin Tian Di’s signature Lucky Koi Tikoy. With this Koi fish-shaped glutinous rice cake priced at P1,688 nett, it is the perfect addition to your New Year repast! The Lucky Koi Tikoy can be enjoyed and purchased until Jan. 31, 2025.
Xi Tian Di also offers a specially curated Chinese New Year Set Menu, crafted to bring joy, abundance, and indulgence to your celebrations. The set menu features authentic Chinese dishes, offering a Set Menu for Five Persons for P18,651 nett and a Set Menu for Ten Persons for P37,346 nett.
This limited-time menu is available from Jan. 16 to 31, 2025.
Make your Chinese New Year celebrations special and memorable and experience the vibrant traditions and heartfelt hospitality of the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria and the Holiday Inn & Suites.
For inquiries and reservations for the Chinese New Year Set Menu and the Lucky Koi Tikoy, contact Xin Tian Di at +6387903100 or via email at [email protected]
Location:Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, Ortigas Ave, Corner Asian Development Bank Ave 1100 Quezon City National Capital Region; Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria, One Asian Development Bank Avenue, Ortigas Center 1655 Quezon City National Capital Region
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What's the best way to end a meal? For us, it's with a sweet treat, specifically, ice cream. If you're looking for the best dessert to indulge in, then we've got you covered with a list of some of Manila's best soft serves, some of which you may not have heard of yet!
A Mano
Founded by Amado Fores, son of Chef Margarita Fores, A Mano is best known for its mouthwatering Italian dishes. Of course, aside from pasta and pizza, the eatery also offers soft-serve! The beloved Burrata Gelato soft-serve (P260 per cup) is milky, creamy, and genuinely delicious. Customers can even add these combinations of toppings for only P60 each:Honey & Honeycomb; Olive Oil & Maldon Sea Salt; Balsamic & Strawberries; or Chocolate Crumbs & Nutella. Add P50 to have it served in a homemade waffle bowl! Delicious and refreshing!
Location:A Mano Rockwell, G/F Lopez Drive, Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center, Makati City, Metro Manila
Carmen's Best
You may have spotted pints or cups of Carmen’s Best at your local supermarket – but did you know they also serve up a mean soft serve? Made with 100% fresh cow’s milk, Carmen’s Best soft serve can befound at their Rockwell branch where customers can also order sundaes, scoops, and milkshakes.
Creamy to a fault, Carmen’s Best soft serve can come in a medium or large cup, aregular cone, or a homemade Belgian waffle cone.Each iteration can be topped with caramel, chocolate, or strawberry syrup. Customers can also add crunchy bites such as almonds, chocolate chips, and sprinkles for extra sweetness.
Location:Carmen’s Best, R2, Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center, Makati City, Metro Manila
Formerly a well-kept secret, this Japanese supermarket has since risen to Internet fame through TikTok virality. Located in Makati City, Minnano Supermarket stocks its shelves with fresh imports from Japan; but aside from the usual Japanese goods, this one-stop-shop also boasts of their very own Hokkaido soft serve.
Lauded by its customers as authentic and delicious, Minnano’s soft serve ice cream can also be topped with in-house Japanese fruits such as grapes and melon.
Location:Minnano Supermarket, 197 Salcedo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City, Metro Manila
Harlan & Holden
People flock to Harlan & Holden for a cup or two of coffee but we love their soft-serve menu just as much. The café offers two flavors: Milk, for the soft serve purists, and Chocolate Hazelnut, for those craving a little more. Each is delicious, so don’t worry about making the wrong choice – both are equally refreshing and will keep you feeling happy throughout the day.
Harlan & Holden insiders know they can even add boba to their chocolate hazelnut soft serve, an added topping to an already delicious treat.
Watch out: this up-and-coming soft serve stand is taking over the Metro. Bunny Banana, known for their affordable banana-flavored soft serve (starts at P99) has been expanding to malls all over NCR. Made with fresh fruit, soft serve at Bunny Banana comes in two sizes: small on a wafer cone or large on a sugar cone. Those who want more can even try the brand’s innovative sundaes such as their Turon Sundae, or their Banana Nutella. Wash it all down with banana smoothies flavored with black sesame, graham crackers, or even matcha.
Location:Bunny Banana, 2F, SM City Sta. Mesa, Quezon City
Alt Scoops
Lactose intolerant? Or maybe you’re simply avoiding dairy? Either way, we’ve got you! If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative to delicious soft serve, then head over to Alt Scoops. Made with oat milk, Alt Scoops offers both traditional ice cream scoops and soft serve (starts at P125)that can be eaten in a cup or a special chia cone.
Location: Alt Scoops, 2F, Podium, 12 ADB Ave, Ortigas Center, Pasig City
The Matcha Tokyo
Matcha is having a well-deserved moment on the Internet. The Matcha Tokyo, which dedicates itself to just that is one of the best places to find matcha treats and drinks. From cakes and cookies to coffee, and even merch, The Matcha Tokyo prides itself in bringing the best of what Japanese matcha has to offer.
Among its must-tries isits soft-serve ice cream (P150) which comes in two flavors:matcha and hojicha. Surprisingly, many people prefer hojicha to the traditional matcha; nevertheless, both are delicious options and can also come wrapped in a mochi sheet for that extra bite.
Location: The Matcha Tokyo, Grand Central Park North, Mitsukoshi Mall, 8th Ave, Corner 36th St, Taguig, Metro Manila
Chebi Webbi
Did you know that the ultimate dessert house is located at Greenhills Mall? Chebbi Webbi, a café that prides itself on its vegan soft serve (P115 to P225), serves two flavors: Horchata and "Coconana"(mix of coconut, pandan, and banana). If you’re lucky you may even come across their limited edition flavors such as matcha or Earl Grey.
Order it plain or as a swirl, which is when they mix up your soft serve with two or three toppings to create a thick, creamy Blizzard-like dessert that’s more unique, and much more fulfilling.
Location: Chebi Webbi, LG/F, Ortigas Ave, GH Mall, Greenhills, San Juan, Metro Manila
Avocadoria
Don’t sleep on Avocadoria! This ice cream stand, founded in 2019, is experiencing something of a renaissance. With new branches around Metro Manila, Avocadoria is forging on, serving customers with mouth-watering avocado treats that are creamy, sweet, and delicious. Their classic is the Avocado Lover (P130 to P140), which features soft serve topped with chia seeds, slivers of almonds, and homemade biscuit crumble. You can also add chewy boba on the bottom for that extra, chewy bite.
A beloved brand used by home bakers and brands, Auro Café puts Philippine chocolate on the map by using the best ingredients to get the best flavors.
While they’re known for their chocolate bars, Auro Café doesn’t hold back when it comes to recipe development. Here, they serve home-baked goods such as brownies and cookies alongside an incredible Dark Chocolate Soft Serve in a Lengua de Gato cone (from P170)! Definitely worth the few extra calories.
Location:Auro Café, Unit 01, Ground Floor, One Maridien Tower (U/C), 27th Street, Taguig City
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Funnily enough, Victoria Riingen discovered Warabimochi Kamakura in Singapore. A tech executive and F&B entrepreneur, Victoria is the generous businesswoman who has brought the brand to Philippine shores.
“I used to live in Singapore and in Singapore, people line up for food [all the time],” she laughingly recalled. “But I never did. But one day, my friend told me about [Warabimochi Kamakura], how people would take a one-hour train ride out from Central to queue up for two hours under the sun just to try warabi mochi.”
Her interest sparked, Victoria undertook the journey herself, lining up for two hours for a bite of warabi mochi. “If I could, I would have taken that journey every day just to have a bite,” she laughed.
Since moving back to the Philippines however, Victoria has had to manage her cravings. The only time she got to have warabi mochi again was when she flew out to Japan. Fortunately, she was encouraged by family members and has since managed to bring the respected Japanese brand to the Philippines. She also plans to open another branch of Warabimochi Kamakura in the coming months.
“I was definitely intrigued by how different warabi mochi is,” Victoria said. “Filipinos are often familiar with mochi as a circular ball that could have filling or ice cream inside. But warabi is completely different, it’s so simple but so delicious.”
In Japan, Warabimochi Kamakura already has over 50 branches, and franchises are popping up all over Southeast Asia. As a population that seems absolutely enamored with Japanese food and culture, Filipinos are bound to discover and fall in love with warabi mochi in the same way Victoria has.
SM Megamall is often known as a haven for shoppers; but if you’re looking for respite from the hustle and bustle of busy mall days, then the Warabimochi Kamakura café has what you’re looking for. The place itself is cozy, tucked behind a minimalist storefront. Inside, you’ll find a spacious counter and a handful of tables and chairs, all of which are perfectly in line with the traditional Japanese aesthetic. Wooden furniture and black accents make the place homey and comfortable, while the storefront acts as a shield from the busyness of mall activity.
The Menu
Mochi, mochi, and more mochi! As its name implies, Warabimochi Kamakura celebrates the best of this unique delicacy, both as a snack and a beverage. The snack version comes in two flavors: warabi mochi topped with either kinako(roasted soybean) or matcha(green tea) powder.
What truly stands out, however, are the beverages, all of which have warabimochi in every serving! At the moment, there are seven options to choose from: those looking for a creamy drink can opt for the Luxury Strawberry Yogurt or Luxury Strawberry Milk. More refreshing (and lighter) choices would include the Lemonade and Matcha Lemonade. The last three choices can be served either hot or cold: these include theAsakawa-en Matcha,the Tenku Hojicha, and the Coffee Milk.
The Cost
Costs at Warabimochi Kamakura will depend on your appetite; servings are priced between P200 to P600.
Warabi mochi, which is made from bracken starch, can be filling so if you just want to try it out then your best bet would be to order a “cup” of mochi. This includes two pieces of either kinako flavor (P180) ormatcha flavor (P230). This can be topped with ice cream for an additional P50.
There’s also a dine-in exclusive where you can avail of both three pieces of mochi plus any drink of choice (whether matcha or coffee); it is P380 for kinako mochiand P460 for matcha. If you want to share the mochi love, go for a box of ten, which are priced at P480 for kinakoor P550 for matcha.
What We Tried
Traditional mochi is often made from glutinous rice, but warabi mochi is different. This special delicacy is made from warabiko, also known as bracken starch. As such, warabi mochi comes away with a completely different texture. While traditional mochi can be tough and chewy, warabi is the complete opposite – it is soft, smooth, and silky, but still chewy.
From Warabimochi Kamakura, we tried the matcha-flavored mochi, which comes coated in matcha powder and a side of kuromitsu drizzle (sugar syrup). Victoria had mentioned that the warabi mochi had been slightly sweetened to be tailored for the Filipino palate so ordering the matcha
mochi was a good choice. The earthiness of the matcha balanced out the sweetness of the mochi; of course, sweet tooths can always add kuromitsu if they want a little more.
Some people might be confused with the concept of a mochi drink. Trust us, we were too! But you may be pleasantly surprised once you take a sip of this incredibly fun drink. While other brands often use mochi as sinkers, they usually do so with circular-shaped mochi balls. At Warabimochi Kamakura, the mochi sinkers are cut into longer strips, making them easy to drink and swallow. Every sip is sure to include some of that silken, chewy taste too!
For the drinks, our favorite was definitely the Matcha Lemonade. This refreshing beverage was incredible; if you’re worried about the usual bitterness of matcha, don’t be! This fun combination balances out in the end, as the earthy tang of the matcha complements the sweetness of the mochi sinker.
We also tried the Asakawa-en Matcha, which – funnily enough – reminded us of Sago’t Gulaman. It was quite sweet, with the taste of brown sugar taking center stage. Of course, there’s also a bit of earthiness from the matcha, but very subtly so. This is definitely one for the milk tea lovers!
Lastly, we had to take a sip of the Luxury Strawberry Yogurt. Made with real strawberries, this creamy and indulgent drink was fruity and filling. It tasted like high-quality yogurt, but with a fun twist: the warabi mochi! It is our assumption that the yogurt comes at a thicker consistency than the milk would so if you’re looking for something lighter – perhaps as an after-dinner drink – then we suggest going for Luxury Strawberry Milk rather than yogurt.
Location:Warabimochi Kamakura Philippines, 3F Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, EDSA, corner Doña Julia Vargas Ave, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City
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Chinese New Year falls on Jan. 29, 2025, marking the start of the Year of the Snake. As families and friends gather to welcome prosperity and good fortune, sharing a sumptuous meal remains one of the most cherished traditions of the season. From savory Peking duck to plump dumplings, sweet tikoy, and longevity noodles, savoring every bite of these dishes — believed to bring luck and happiness — is a must.
In Metro Manila, you’ll find restaurants that bring these culinary traditions to life, offering authentic Chinese dishes perfect for your Lunar New Year feast. Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner or a grand banquet, check out some of the best restaurants for an unforgettable Chinese New Year celebration below:
Celebrate the Year of the Snake in style at China Blue by Jereme Leung, Conrad Manila’s signature Chinese restaurant. Known for its refined elegance, the restaurant features a stunning interior with captivating blue chandeliers and breathtaking views of Manila Bay. This Chinese New Year, enjoy the exclusive Feast of Fortune promo, which includes the Pearl Set Menu (Php49,888 nett) and Grandeur Set Menu (Php69,888 nett), each designed for ten guests.
Don’t miss the Prosperity Yee Sang (Php3,888 nett), perfect for sharing. Available from Jan. 7 to Feb. 7, 2025, this is your chance to savor culinary masterpieces in a luxurious setting.
Canton Road is a premier Chinese restaurant at Shangri-La at the Fort, known for its modern take on traditional Cantonese cuisine. Indulge in signature dishes like the Jiangnan Sweet and Sour Pork Ribs, the Flamed Barbecue Trio Sampler, and the Soft Bean Curd Soup, each showcasing the restaurant’s mastery of authentic flavors.
This Chinese New Year, don’t miss their festive treats, including the Prosperity Box, a single layer of nian gao or Chinese New Year sweet rice cake (Php2,888), and indulgent hampers like the Xin Nian Kua Le Hamper (Php6,888) and Gong Xi Fa Cai Hamper (Php8,888).
Location:Canton Road, Level 3, Shangri-La at the Fort 30th Street, corner 5th Ave, Taguig City
Operating Hours: Lunch – 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM | Dinner – 5 PM to 10:30 PM
Experience the best of Chinese cuisine at Paradise Dynasty, a dining destination renowned for its innovative take on traditional dishes. Originating from Singapore, the restaurant is celebrated for its signature Xiao Long Bao, offering eight unique flavors like Black Truffle, Szechuan, and Foie Gras, a world-first for soup dumplings. Beyond its iconic dumplings, Paradise Dynasty features a diverse menu that blends northern and southern Chinese flavors, all served in an ambiance of modern opulence with gold accents and elegant lighting.
Location:Paradise Dynasty, Level 2, The Podium, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City
Operating Hours: Lunch – 11 AM to 3 PM | Dinner – 6 PM to 10 PM
East Ocean Palace takes pride in its fresh seafood specialties like tiger lobster and abalone, as well as Cantonese classics such as Hong Kong Roasted Goose, the menu caters to the most refined tastes. With private dining rooms and attentive service, it’s the perfect venue for celebrating special occasions with friends and family.
Location:East Ocean Palace, Lot 37 Block 5 Aseana Business Park, Parañaque City
Operating Hours: Lunch – 11 AM to 2:30 PM | Dinner – 6 PM to 9:30 PM
8 Treasures Roasting is a go-to spot for lovers of Cantonese cuisine, particularly its expertly prepared roasted meats. Highlights include the flavorful Roast Duck, crispy Lechon Macau, and tender HK Soy Chicken and HK White Chicken. For a feast to share, the 8 Treasures Platter combines their best offerings, perfect for larger gatherings. Pair your meal with classic dim sum or comforting noodle soups for a truly satisfying culinary journey.
Location:8 Treasures Roasting, EDSA (Petron) corner Arnaiz Ave, formerly Antonio Arnaiz Ave, Makati City
Summer Palace has been a premier destination for authentic Cantonese cuisine since 1992. The menu features over 180 dishes, including their renowned 8 Treasures collection, fresh seafood, and expertly crafted dim sum. The luxurious yet cozy atmosphere, complete with private dining rooms, makes it an ideal spot for family gatherings, business meetings, and special celebrations.
Location:Summer Palace, EDSA Shangri-La, 1 Garden Way, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City
Operating Hours: Lunch – 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM | Dinner – 6 PM to 10 PM
King Chef offers a dining experience fit for royalty, specializing in authentic Cantonese cuisine with a strong focus on seafood. The menu features a wide selection of dim sum, freshly prepared seafood dishes, and classic Chinese favorites, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Every meal is created with 100% love and attention to detail, providing customers with an unforgettable, personalized dining experience.
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A new and refreshing face joins Dunkin’ Philippines’ roster of brand ambassadors.
South Korean actor Byeon Woo-seok, well-known for his role as Ryu Sun-jae in the 2024 time-slip drama “Lovely Runner,” is the newest face of Dunkin’ Philippines.
Dunkin’ Philippines announced the news on their social media pages
on Jan. 9, 2025, showing a photo of the actor holding a Choco Butternut donut. The caption read, “BWS x BTN. Welcome to Dunkin’ PH, Byeon Wooseok!”
The beloved K-Drama actor joins K-Pop boy group Enhypen as one of their current brand ambassadors and joins the list of South Korean actors that have served as Dunkin’ Philippines’ endorsers, which include Kim Soo-hyunand Cha Eun-woo.
With the announcement of Byeon Woo-seok as their newest brand ambassador, Dunkin’ PH also made sure to make it worthwhile for all the Filipino Mailboxes (his fandom name). For every purchase of any Double Large (32oz) drink (Iced Coffee, Iced Latte, Iced Spanish Latte, Icy Choco) priced at P270, everyone will get a limited-edition Dunkin’ x Byeon Woo-seok photocard!
This promo is running from Jan. 9 to 31, 2025 only, so make sure to head on to your nearest Dunkin’ PH branch!
Byeon Woo-seok first rose to popularity after his role as Poong Woon-ho in the 2022 film “20th Century Girl.” He solidified his place as a sought-after actor after his portrayal of a top-tier celebrity riddled with exhaustion in the 2024 time-slip romantic comedy-drama “Lovely Runner.” The South Korean star is slated to star alongside Lee Ji-eun (more popularly known as IU) in an upcoming drama by MBC.
He is also currently a brand ambassador for international retail brand Giordano, Italian luxury fashion house Prada, and French luxury retailer Cartier.
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When the weekend rolls around, nothing quite hits the spot like brunching like a boss! Luckily, Metro Manila is brimming with incredible dining options that cater to every breakfast food craving, from classic eggs Benedict to indulgent French toast, and even classic Pinoy dishes.
To help you discover your new favorite hangout, we've rounded up the top brunch locations that will have you saying "Mimosa, please!" Whether you're in the mood for a lavish buffet, a trendy cafe, or a hidden gem, these foodie destinations are sure to start your day on a high note.
Exchange Alley Coffee House
With a welcoming atmosphere free of pretension, Exchange Alley Coffee House champions the idea that specialty coffee should be accessible to everyone by finding common ground. Its name pays homage to Exchange Alley in London, a historic hub for coffeehouses dating back to the 1600s. Staying true to its inclusive philosophy, Exchange Alley serves an impressive selection of coffees and all-day breakfast that cater to different preferences.
Bean & Yolk
If you’re torn between your love for coffee and eggs, Bean & Yolk ensures you’ll never have to choose. This café brings the best of both worlds, serving coffee and brunch all day. Indulge in their rose latte or hot mocha alongside a stack of fluffy ricotta pancakes, or opt for something savory like their flavorful avocado toast. With warm interiors, semi-al fresco seating, and thoughtful amenities like outlets for working diners, Bean & Yolk is perfect for a solo coffee break or a brunch gathering with friends.
Southbank Cafe+Lounge
Southbank Café + Lounge in Westgate Center effortlessly combines the charm of an independent café with the allure of a cocktail bar. Whether craving a caffeine fix or a well-crafted drink, Southbank lets you indulge in both. Alongside their expertly curated specialty coffees, cocktails, and wines, the menu features an enticing array of options, including all-day breakfast, hearty mains, flavorful bar chow, and indulgent desserts.
Bungalow Café & Bakery
Bungalow Café and Bakery offers the ideal setting for a laid-back date, with its cozy, airy atmosphere, rattan and wooden furniture, and charming potted plants. Coffee enthusiasts can enjoy classics like cappuccino, mocha, cortado, flat white, and long black, while those seeking plant-based options will appreciate their soy, almond, and coconut lattes. The café serves tempting all-day breakfast and mains such as pistachio pain perdu, strawberry French toast, prawn rolls, squid ink seafood pasta, and spicy honey garlic wings.
Cafe Fleur
Café Fleur is a charming restaurant helmed by Chef Sau del Rosario. Rooted in his Kapampangan heritage, the café exudes warmth with its homey interiors and menu that playfully nods to his origins. Café Fleur now calls Poblacion home, where it continues to delight diners with creations like the “Vuco Fye,” a witty local twist on buko pie that hints at the chef’s Pampanga accent. This restaurant is a testament to resilience, born from Chef Sau’s experiments during lockdown and inspired by his mother’s cherished recipes.
Mirèio
Nestled within the luxurious Raffles Makati Hotel, Mirèio is an elegant brasserie-style restaurant that has been enticing brunch enthusiasts since 2016. Serving authentic Provençal and French-inspired cuisine, Mirèio transforms the weekend ritual of brunch into an exquisite experience. Every Sunday, the Mirèio Brunch Society invites discerning diners to indulge in a lavish spread. The enhanced brunch features live cooking stations, where chefs prepare an array of tantalizing French and continental specialties.
Jones All Day
Welcome to your all-day destination for any craving, any occasion—Jones All Day is the best of a bistro, bakery, and joinery. Step into this pet-friendly oasis and unwind in the charming al fresco seating. The aroma of freshly baked pastries mingles with the sounds of skilled artisans crafting bespoke furniture and decor pieces in the open joinery. Whether you're savoring a croissant and flat white, indulging in a leisurely brunch, or seeking a last-minute gourmet find, Jones All Day has you covered.
Kas & Poly
Calling all astrology boys & girls! Prepare to be transported into a realm where culinary artistry meets the magic of the cosmos, as you step into the enchanting world of Kas & Poly. Guided by the captivating motto "Stellar Food + Cosmic Drinks," Kas & Poly presents a unique No Borders European-Mediterranean cuisine, inspired by the enigmatic Gemini Twins, Castor and Pollux. Open from 11 AM to midnight, seven days a week, this versatile establishment weaves together the symphony of Mediterranean, Turkish, Greek, Spanish, and Italian flavors, each dish meticulously crafted to speak to the unique personality of the 12 Zodiac Signs.
Cafe Mabini
Hop into the sunny, inviting atmosphere of Cafe Mabini, your friendly neighborhood all-day breakfast haven that's more than just a typical brunch spot. This vibrant establishment has mastered the art of turning the most important meal of the day into an all-day celebration, catering to every craving from dawn till dusk. Indulge in a wide selection of appetizers, seafood, meats, and more, all expertly crafted to satisfy your taste buds. And don't forget to pair your meal with one of Cafe Mabini's signature drinks — the perfect wingmen to your brunch favorites.
The Test Kitchen
It all began in 2017 when Chef Josh Boutwood opened the doors to a small, tasting menu-focused establishment called The Test Kitchen. This intimate dining destination quickly captured the hearts and palates of the local food scene, establishing Josh's reputation as a culinary innovator. After a brief hiatus, Josh felt the call to revisit his original creation. At the heart of this revival lies a fundamental truth: time is an ingredient, and it will always be a guiding principle that shapes the evolving narrative of The Test Kitchen.
Museya Kafé
Prepare to embark on a captivating fusion of art, history, and culinary delight at Museya Kafé, found within the ground floor lobby of Makati City's renowned Ayala Museum. This is the latest brainchild of Margarita Forés, the acclaimed chef who has graced the top of Asia's 50 Best Female Chefs list in 2016 and is renowned for her iconic creations at Cibo, Lusso, and The Loggia at Palacio de Memoria. At Museya Kafé, visitors can indulge in the perfect pairing of their "artistic fascination" and their craving for "delicious caffeination."
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There are plenty of good reasons to go vegan, whether that’s for your health or for sustainability goals. But of course, going meat-free can be intimidating too.
Fortunately, there are now a growing number of vegan restaurantsin Metro Manila (and NCR)offering alternatives to your favorite food. These eateries make veganism not just accessible, but enjoyable too! Try these delicious, award-winning restaurants whenever you’re craving something healthy and meaningful.
Pipino Veg
Though the restaurant is vegetarian in nature, a lot of Pipino Veg’s recipes are vegan too.
In fact, their version of halo-halois made with eggless leche flan, almond milk, and coconut cream! Aside from dessert, the restaurant’s “bagoong” ricemade with black beans is a definite must-try, not to mention the restaurant’s specialty, plant-based kare-kare.
Location:Pipino Veg, 39 Malingap St., Teachers Village East, Quezon City
Wabi Sabi Noodle House
Vegan ramen? Yes please! Wabi Sabi Noodle House presents a lineup of vegetarian ramen that can also be made vegan if specified.
All the “meat” used in their ramen is made of vegetables; whether it’s the minced meat in their tantanmen ramen or the chasu in their shoyu ramen. They even have vegetarian appetizers such as the Sweetcorn and Cream Cheese Tempura,and Mushroom Siomai. If you choose to dine-in at their restaurant, you can even avail of vegan frozen foods such as Vegan Caldereta, Sisig, and Siopao.
Location:Wabi Sabi Noodle House, POS Building, 305 Scout Madrinan, Tomas Morato Avenue, Quezon City
WILD Plant Based Café Bar
Looking for a plant-based mid-day snack? Check out this BGC café and bar. WILD's affordable menu makes eating vegan easy and accessible, with food items all priced below P500. Try their Beetroot Hummus Dip, a colorful alternative to traditional chickpea hummus, or their Protein Waffles, especially if you’re looking to reach your protein goals. Of course, the café’s mainstays remain to be their sandwiches and burgers: try their Classic Cheeseburger or “Chck’n” Burger flavored with BBQ, gochujang, maple butter, or bang bang sauce.
Awarded by PETA Asia as “2024’s Best Vegan Filipino Restaurant," Greenery Kitchen is proud to transform traditional Filipino favorites into healthy alternatives. They have an incredible menu that features Liempo, Dinuguan, and Caldereta all made vegan!
Their menu is flexible too and can accommodate diners for dine-in and take-out; those looking to take-out can even purchase party trays for up to 15 people. The Greenery Kitchen also has a weekly vegan meal plan and frozen foods for delivery, making veganism accessible for all kinds of lifestyles.
Location:Greenery Kitchen, 2078 E. Pascua Street, Kasilawan, Makati City
An unassuming restaurant located across Greenbelt, iVegan serves us homey, nourishing food that’s good for body and soul. A personal favorite is their Shitake Mushroom Soup, which is made with goji berries, roasted white onions, and carrots. This healing broth works as a fantastic appetizer to their meals.
To get the full vegan experience, we recommend going for a classic: either the Black Bean Burger or the Portobello Mushroom Steak followed by a Smoothie Bowl for dessert. Don’t worry; it’s all good for you!
Location:iVegan, Unit 106, Plaza 100, VA Rufino, Corner dela Rosa Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City
Shaka
A tropical favorite that’s since become a mainstay in Manila, Shaka Café serves the best smoothie bowls in Manila. Made with fresh tropical fruits blended together in perfect harmony, Shaka brings the best of healthy island living across multiple locales.
We also recommend their mains such as the Vegetable Lasagna made with red lentils, Mushroom Stroganoffmade with cashew sauce, or the Birria Tacos made from jackfruit.
Location:Shaka Café, 117-107 L.P. Leviste Street, Makati City
This Poblacion staple remains on the top of our list for vegan restaurants. Specializing in Filipino comfort food, Cosmic brings plant-based alternatives to the forefront of a traditional local diet. Their Sisighas been lauded as one of the best vegan alternatives in the metro, and is made with both seitan and tofu. Their Vegan Isaw, Kare-Kare, and Silog meals are flavorful must-tries that will make you forget about meat altogether.
Location:Cosmic, 4980 P. Guanzon Street, Poblacion, Makati City
Green Bar
This cozy café located in Legaspi Village, Makati is the perfect hangout for those looking to get healthy. Green Bar's menu is extensive and covers breakfast foods, desserts, and drinks – all made vegan! The restaurant’s hot bowls are a great option for those looking to try it out; you wouldn’t know that you’re eating tofu, seitan, or mushrooms!
Of course, you have to have their fluffy Vegan Donuts for dessert afterwards. They have a rotating daily menu of delicious flavors that range from Lemon Chia to Boston Cream-filled.
Location:Green Bar, 106 Aguirre Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City
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