The Best of Brunch: Must-Try Restos Around Metro Manila

Popular fast-casual chain Kenny Rogers Roasters celebrates three decades of flavorful legacy with a new campaign that reminds Filipinos that mindful eating can also be a powerful act of self-love.

Known for its signature roasted chicken, hearty sides, and exciting food innovations, Kenny Rogers Roasters has redefined how Filipinos enjoy wholesome meals, proving that true greatness only gets better with time. 

Moreover, the brand is renowned for its “deliciously healthy” meals, having provided well-rounded menus that balance indulgence and nutrition, such as the fall-of-the-bone ribs and Healthy Plates and Salad. These offerings often come with calorie counts, giving customers more transparency and encouraging them to make mindful food choices. 

Complimenting their delicious mains are tasty sides that have become fan favorites among locals, such as the corn muffin, mac and cheese, and steamed vegetables. These thoughtfully crafted combinations reflect the brand’s enduring commitment to making deliciously healthy food both satisfying and accessible to all.

To celebrate the incredible milestone, the brand launched its “I Love Me Better” campaign, which is its most personal and empowering yet, as it recognizes that choosing what to eat every day takes intention and courage.

“Sometimes, better choices start with something as simple as choosing better meals for yourself,” said Marketing Director Lorent Martin Adrias. “When we choose healthier, better meals, we’re not just fueling our bodies but embracing self-love. Choosing Kenny Rogers Roasters is more than a meal decision — it’s a commitment to loving yourself better.”

This campaign promotes self-love through mindful eating and perfectly embodies the staple dishes and menu innovations the brand has offered through the years. It has since taken over high-traffic and unexpected spaces, from a full train wrap on LRT-1 to bike boards and inspiring billboards along EDSA, with each placement carrying messages of self-love and empowerment, and turning commutes into reminders that even the smallest decisions, like opting for healthier meals, can be powerful acts of self-care. The campaign also introduced a new, feel-good jingle now streaming on Spotify. 

For over 30 years, Kenny Rogers Roasters has led with purpose and has redefined what deliciously healthy means, all the while pushing for impact and innovation. “The legacy of Kenny Rogers Roasters is unmatched,” Lorent added. “And the future is set to raise the bar even higher.”

To know more about their deliciously healthy offerings, follow Kenny Rogers Roasters on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

Sweet tooths, it's time to free up your Friday! IDIM DIY Bakery, a popular do-it-yourself bakery concept from Taiwan, is whipping up its newest branch at SM City Sta. Mesa on June 20, 2025. Whether you want to level up your skills or learn how to bake, this is your chance to roll up your sleeves, put on an apron, and unleash your inner pastry chef.

As the first of its kind in Asia, IDIM DIY Bakery has everything you need to create a delicious masterpiece. All you need is to choose your preferred cake (either a small one you can have by yourself or a two-tiered one you can share) or pastry, follow the text and video instructions on the provided tablet, and enjoy decorating to your heart's content. In case you get a little lost, they have baking assistants ready to help with the ingredients and procedures you need to do.

The opening celebration kicks off at 2 PM, and the first 100 walk-in customers will receive a free Baking Pass. This gives you the chance to dive right into the DIY action and be proud to say, "I Did It Myself!" at your finished creation. As a cherry on top, all cakes and pastries at IDIM DIY Bakery will be available at 20% off from June 20 to 27, 2025.

Following the success of its branches in SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, and Ayala Malls Manila Bay, the new SM Sta. Mesa location continues IDIM DIY Bakery’s mission to prove that “anyone can bake.” With its walk-in setup, beginner-friendly environment, and wide selection of baking templates, it's the perfect space for aspiring bakers or anyone craving a fun, interactive experience.

For more details, follow IDIM DIY Bakery's Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts or visit their website. See you there!

Ready your taste buds, Manila — Hard Rock Cafe in the Philippines is in the running to claim global burger fame! 

To celebrate Hard Rock International Founders' Day, the annual 2025 World Burger Tour has officially kicked off, with over 100 Hard Rock Cafes taking part! This mouthwatering culinary showdown challenges Hard Rock chefs worldwide to create bold, culturally infused burgers, and this time, a Filipino-inspired burger will be flipping into the spotlight.  

From June 14 to Aug. 5, 2025, burger lovers can sink their teeth into this exclusive creation at Hard Rock Cafe Manila.

This year’s competition gets an exciting boost with Olivia Tiedemann, chef, content creator, and brand partner, who is stepping in as a mentor and judge, adding star power and expert guidance to the sizzling contest.

The burger that wins hearts (and stomachs) will earn a coveted spot on the final global World Burger Tour menu, hitting Hard Rock Cafes everywhere for a limited time.

Foodies and fans alike can support their local flavor by heading to Hard Rock Cafe Manila and savoring the Filipino-inspired burger. Every order and online rating helps to push the burger closer to global fame. And don't forget to rally friends on social media to post, tag, and vote in this tasty campaign.

Finalists will be announced between Aug. 5 and Sept. 5, 2025, with the top five burgers taking their rightful place on Hard Rock Cafe's international menu.  

For more information, visit Hard Rock Café on their website, Instagram, and Facebook. Reserve a table here.

Location: Hard Rock Cafe Manila, Level 2, S Maison at Conrad Manila, Seaside Boulevard, Metro Manila, Coral Way, Pasay 1300

Cebu foodies, get ready to feast! This June, SM City Cebu is about to become the ultimate destination for eating out as The Moment Group, the culinary force behind Manila’s trendiest dining spots, brings its concepts to the Queen City of the South. 

From June 18 to June 25, 2025, Cebu’s dining landscape is set for a tasty makeover with exciting new restaurant openings packed within the mall. 

Leading the charge is Manam, opening on June 18, famous for putting a creative spin on classic Filipino flavors and favorites. Imagine crispy Pancit Palabok, Sinigang na Beef Short Rib with Watermelon, and refreshing Ube + Sago shakes—perfect for sharing with family or enjoying a casual celebration.

Also launching on June 18 is Ooma, bringing a playful, bold take on Japanese cuisine to Cebu. Dive into fan favorites like Aburi Maki Rolls, tender Hanger Steak, and rich Uni Udon.

Mark your calendars for July 1 when 8Cuts Burgers fires up its grills. Known for juicy, custom-blended patties and crave-worthy sides, their cheeseburger, Bleu 2.0, and crispy onion rings are about to become your new go-to bites.

Having sweet cravings? Mo’ Cookies arrives on June 28 with its famous gooey, palm-sized cookies baked fresh daily, with options like Dark Chocolate Macadamia to South Cotabato Chocolate Fudge. 

Last but definitely not the least iconic, Taiwanese Michelin-starred brand Din Tai Fung will open on July 18, bringing its legendary Pork Xiaolongbao to Cebu’s eager food lovers.

For more information, visit SM Supermalls on their website, Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter). 

Location: SM Supermalls, 7th Floor, MOA Square, Marina Way, Seashell Lane, cor Coral Way, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City

Sustainable dining is the way forward as IHG Hotels & Resorts (Intercontinental Hotels Group) properties in the Philippines pledge to make 30% of all menu offerings plant-based by 2027. 

IHG hotels across the country namely Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria, Holiday Inn Cebu City, Holiday Inn & Suites Batangas Lima Park, and Holiday Inn & Suites Makati pledged to this policy, which represents one of the most comprehensive plant-based dining initiative undertaken by a major international hotel group in the Philippines. The initiative spans multiple dining venues at the properties, including restaurants, room service menus, and banquet offerings. 

“Our commitment to increasing plant-based options to 30% across our menus at Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria by 2025 reflects our dedication to sustainable hospitality and responsible dining," said Patria Puyat, Cluster General Manager at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria and Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria. “This initiative aligns with our global 'Journey to Tomorrow' sustainability program and reflects our determination to reduce our environmental footprint while meeting the evolving preferences of today's conscious travelers.”

"We've always believed that great hospitality is about making people feel cared for, not just through comfort, but through the choices we offer,” added Andy Belmonte, General Manager of Holiday Inn & Suites Makati. “Expanding our menus to include 30% plant-based dishes by the end of 2027 is one way to support our guests' well-being while caring for the planet. It's a meaningful step for us as part of the Makati community, where modern living and conscious choices go hand in hand."

Research shows that plant-based proteins generate up to 90% lower greenhouse gas emissions and require up to 90% less land and water use than animal proteins. Additionally, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) found that plant-based foods also generate approximately 50% less food waste than meat and dairy products. This undertaking from IHG showcases meaningful progress toward conscious dining and provides a more thoughtful and forward-looking guest experience.

“This commitment demonstrates how the industry can evolve with purpose, integrating care for people and the planet with the quality and comfort guests expect,” said Marielle Lagulay, Sustainability Program Manager at Lever Foundation — a global NGO that assists leading companies to upgrade their food sourcing to a more sustainable supply chain.

“We hope IHG Philippines’ great initiative inspires other hospitality groups to pursue similar commitments, understanding that thoughtful changes in food service can generate substantial positive impact.”

For more information on bookings and reservations, follow IHG Hotels & Resorts on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram. 

Want to experience a deluxe slice of Paris right in Manila? Ladurée, the iconic French bakery famed for its delicate macarons from Paris (also Gossip Girl's Blair Waldorf's sweet treat of choice), is opening its flagship boutique right in the heart of Bonifacio Global City!

Mark your calendars for July 5, 2025, at 1 PM sharp, when Manila will welcome something truly special. Ladurée Philippines' BGC branch is set to be the grandest flagship in Southeast Asia, thanks to the efforts of Gastronova Hospitality Group. 

You may have tried their popular macarons at their shop at 8 Rockwell, which opened in 2015. Now, the BGC Ladurée store is getting a fresh revamp, modeled after the legendary Ladurée store in Champs-Élysées, bringing a touch of Parisian elegance and charm straight to Southeast Asia. 

Nestled in One Bonifacio High Street Mall, this upscale destination is set to become the go-to spot for lovers of French patisserie and signature treats.

Imagine a pastry counter filled with signature macarons in an assortment of rainbow flavors, buttery croissants, rich pains au chocolat, and handcrafted artisanal chocolates that are almost too pretty to eat (but you’ll want to anyway).

In a different zone, sip on expertly brewed lattes, refreshing frappuccino drinks, and dive into gelatos at their coffee and viennoiserie bar — perfect for cooling down during a warm afternoon.

And if you’re in the mood to truly indulge, the 37-seat salon in the same space offers a full French dining experience from breakfast up until dinner time. For the first time in Ladurée's history, there will be an executive lunch menu, tailored just for the bustling BGC business crowd. 

And don’t miss their Parisian-style high tea, served daily from 3:30 to 6 PM — a perfect way to unwind.

Reservations for the store are recommended. Bookings open on June 6, 2025, so stay tuned on Ladurée Philippines' website, Instagram, and Facebook. 

Location: Ladurée, One Bonifacio High Street Mall, 5th Avenue corner, 28th Street, BGC