La Mesa Mead's Mead Festival Celebrated the Ancient Drink
Manila/ Delish/ Reviews

Drinking Like a Viking: The Beat Asia Tries La Mesa Mead

Made by fermenting honey and mixing that with water, mead is an ancient drink that many consider the easiest alcohol to make – you can even make one at home, given you have several pounds of honey. Yes, pounds, about 14 pounds for a standard five-gallon batch. We don’t know about you, but we’ll stick to drinking mead and leave the making to the professionals.

At the Mead Festival, “Mead & Honey Flow,” at GolfX Sports Hub, La Mesa Mead and CoffeexMead treated everyone to free-flow mead, several choice cocktails incorporating the alcohol, artisanal honey for sale from Larry's Honey, and a sword fight exhibition in partnership with Blood & Iron and Forge Martial Fitness.

Throughout the night, DJ Ron Bernardino kept the party going with energetic music while some tried their golfing skills at the indoor virtual golf pods. Some guests even brought their own equipment, while others enjoyed exclusive discounted rates during the event. Mead and golf? Why not! Let’s just pretend that we didn’t keep “hitting fat” when we gave it a shot. For the purposes of this article, let’s say we were pro-golfers in the making (*wink*).

GolfX Sports Hub
The Beat Asia

The night’s main focus, however, was the mead. First up, they served traditional mead. As expected, it was incredibly sweet, a taste familiar with mead lovers. Still, the drink was surprisingly smooth and lighter than previous meads we’ve encountered.

Later in the night, La Mesa Mead Co-Founder Vanessa del Rosario had everyone sample a prototype recipe – one that has 400% more honey than their current recipe. Definitely sweeter than their available offering, it was closer to meads we’ve had in the past and a lot of guests agreed that it’s more authentic. We, for one, can’t wait for this drink when it finally comes out!

At the event, La Mesa also served their specialty mead using locally-sourced honey. President and Co-Founder King del Rosario revealed that their business actually started because of their mutual fascination with bees and their contribution to the environment.

“Without bees and thousands of other pollinators, it would not be long before our ecosystem [collapses]. Bees pollinate our native trees here in the Philippines (they particularly love Narra) and flowering plants. This supports other insects, which then support birds, bats, mammals, and everything up the food chain with food and shelter,” they say on Coffeexmead's website.

Larry's Honey
The Beat Asia

Eventually, the two siblings decided to launch a local honey business but eventually realized that the Philippines is primarily a sugar market. While plenty of customers seek artisanal and locally-produced honey, they decided to create mead to maximize their supply, King explained to The Beat Asia during the event. Plus, this initiative also helps other micro-honey farmers by centralizing their supply into creating mead products.

Of course, they also considered other Filipino honey-based drinks, such as "Bais" (which is called “Filipino mead”) made by the Mandaya and Dibabawon from northeastern Mindanao. There’s another from Visayas called “Kabawaran” made out of honey and Kabawaran tree paste. Considering mead’s global popularity, and given the fact it’s been around for thousands of years, it was an obvious choice for the pair – but perhaps we can expect La Mesa Mead’s versions of the Bais and Kabawaran someday? We’re crossing our fingers!

CoffeexMead
The Beat Asia

At the event, however, we were spoilt for choice. Aside from La Mesa, they also served another brand, CoffeexMead. King explained that they put together two Filipino favorites to produce this brand because…well, why not? Think of it as the espresso martini’s second cousin – same components of coffee and alcohol but different taste and vibe. This one packed a punch and while it wouldn’t be our first choice of a mead variant, it was still a strong contender as the night progressed.

They also served three mead cocktails: Meadgroni, Mead Colada, and Honeycomb Meadgeolli. For their Meadgroni, they mixed La Mesa Mead with Tanqueray Gin, Campari, Sweet Vermouth, raw honey, and a slice of orange. Typical negronis we’ve had in the past always leaned heavier on its bitterness, but their take on the classic cocktail tipped the scales towards the drink’s sweeter notes. Still, it was a nicely balanced version of an iconic drink that can easily be replicated if you already have the ingredients for a negroni – just grab a bottle of La Mesa Mead to try it their way!

Meadgroni and Mead Colada
The Beat Asia

The Mead Colada, on the other hand, was made with La Mesa Mead, Bacardi Rum, pineapple juice, coconut cream, raw honey, and cherry (plus a cute parasol!). If you prefer creamy, tropical drinks then this one is right up your alley – and since there’s pineapple and coconut, it’s practically a fruit smoothie right?

Our personal favorite that night was the Honeycomb Meadgeolli. Their take on the Korean rice wine, Makgeolli. La Mesa Mead’s version combined their mead with gin, Yakult, and honey. Simple, subtly sweet, and straight to the point – this drink was dangerously refreshing. After all, we’ve heard warnings about Trojan horses. Don’t get us wrong, this cocktail stole our hearts that night; but we limited ourselves to two glasses and no more, lest we walk out of the event talking in Old Norse.

Honeycomb Meadgeolli
The Beat Asia

Then it was time to bring out the swords! Fortunately, the experts from the Blood & Iron Martial Arts were sober and suitably covered in gear as they wielded their authentic swords. As the world’s leading school in Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA), they led the demonstration along with some of their students from the Forge Pioneer Martial Fitness group here in the Philippines. They displayed several basic techniques, explaining each move as they fought.

Blood and Iron Martial Arts
The Beat Asia

As we watched them move with precision while simultaneously avoiding damaging anything around them, we silently wished to see them perform once again in an open-field venue. Is anyone else secretly hoping there’ll be a Renaissance Fair (Ren Fair) here in Manila soon?

Well, at least we got to carry the swords during the event, and they were as heavy as we imagined. Talk about a full-body workout? Nicole and Syd Smith, the couple leading Blood & Iron, confirmed that their sport is a head-to-toe fitness activity that anyone can try out!

Curious about being a swordsman? Check out Blood & Iron’s website here or check out their classes in Manila with Forge Pioneer.

Grab a bottle of La Mesa Mead and CoffeexMead through their online shop. Follow them on Instagram, Threads, and Facebook.

La Mesa Mead and Blood and Iron
The Beat Asia

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This Week's Event In Manila View more

This Week's Event In Manila

Timeless: J. Moreno
Feb 27 - Jun 29, 2025

Timeless: J. Moreno

Manila/ The List/ What's On
Get Ready to Feast at Goût de France in Makati
Gout Photo by Make It Makati/Facebook

Filipino foodies, if you're craving something truly magnifique, get ready for a feast that will transport you straight to the streets of Paris!

The much-awaited street festival Goût de France, aka Good France, is coming to Paseo de Roxas this May 24 to 25, 2025, and trust us, you won't want to miss it.

This grand celebration of French gastronomy, organized by the Embassy of France in collaboration with Ayala Land, Inc and Make It Makati, promises the traditional flavors of French classics as well as innovative, sustainable creations.

Goût de France is a nod to both the rich heritage and the exciting future of French cuisine. Whether you're a fan of flaky croissants, mouthwatering escargots, or delicate patisseries, there's something for everyone to enjoy! Expect a vibrant atmosphere where French culinary traditions meet the local spirit of bayanihan.

Talented chefs will prepare a selection of delicious dishes from France, showcasing their skills in the heart of Makati. It's the perfect chance to indulge in fine food while taking in the lively vibe of Paseo de Roxas.

Entrance is free, so bring your friends, family, and fellow food enthusiasts to this delightful celebration of flavors. Whether you're a long-time lover of French food or just curious to try something new, Goût de France is the place to be. You might even discover your next favorite dish!

For more information, visit the Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia on their website, Instagram, and Facebook

Location: Paseo de Roxas, Makati, Philippines

Dates: May 24, 2025 from 4 PM to 12 AM | May 25, 2025 from 8 AM to 10 PM

Admission Fee: Free

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Manila/ Delish/ Happenings
Experience the Return of Sake Manila 2025
Sake Manila 1 Photo by Sake Manila 2025/Website

If you’re looking for things to do on a Friday night to decompress, you need to make a mental note of Sake Manila 2025.

The buzzing second edition is back on May 23, 2025, at 5 PM in the Grand Ballroom of Okada Manila, a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture and traditional craftsmanship under one roof. 

This year’s lineup includes over 200 premium sakes, including exclusive bottles flown in just for Sake Manila 2025. And if you don’t like sake, there is also a wide range of premium Japanese whiskies, gins, wines, shochu, and craft beers to try.

Sake Manila
Website/Sake Manila 2025

A highlight is the Meet the Masters segment, where you’ll get the chance to connect with renowned brewers, distillers, and brand ambassadors, learning about their craft and the stories behind the bottles.

You won’t even need to travel to Japan for a true sensory experience; Sake Manila 2025 will feature rare, small-batch sakes that you can only find at the event. 

With more than 40 participating breweries and distilleries, including names like Dassai, Gekkeikan, and Choya, you’re in for a diverse and unforgettable experience.

As you sip and savor, you’ll also be able to network with industry professionals, business leaders, and fellow sake enthusiasts. And if that’s not enough, there will be exciting raffle prizes, including airfare tickets to Japan courtesy of Cathay Pacific.

Get ready to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, with traditional Japanese music played early in the event that will transition into DJ sets as the night unfolds.

The ticket price for entry costs P6,000 and includes full access to the event, all sakes, and food. You can secure your tickets here

For the full list of the participating breweries, stay updated on their website here. For more information, visit Sake Manila 2025 on their Facebook or Instagram

Location: Grand Ballroom, Okada Manila, New Seaside Drive, Entertainment City Parañaque City, 1701, Metro Manila

Date & Time: May 23, 2025, from 5 PM onwards

Admission Fee: P6,000 (full access)

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Manila/ The List/ What's On
Raise a Glass and Taste Local Craft Beers at the Mabrewhay 2025 Festival!
20250505 Mabrewhay Craft Beer Festival 2025 Photo by Engkanto/Website

Discover some of the finest local craft beers and cultivate your taste buds for the finer things in life at the upcoming Mabrewhay Craft Beer Festival this May 16 to 18, 2025, at the Ayala Triangle Gardens

With over 60 unique craft beers from all over the Philippines, this celebration promises unforgettable experiences — from only the finest local craft brews, live performances, masterclasses, and the community spirit

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The Mabrewhay Craft Beer Festival 2025 is set to be the ultimate celebration of malt, ale, and freshly brewed (and free-flowing!) beer from all the best breweries across the Philippines. These include Engkanto Brewery, Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits, Papa Bolo, Nipa Brew, and much more! You can check out the list of participating brewers here.

A variety of craft beers will be available for guests to taste, each representing the depth and diversity of the Philippine craft beer scene. From fruity pale ales to smooth, deep stouts, there surely will be a drink for everyone!

Live performances, artists, creativity, and more will also be joining in the fun, making the Ayala Triangle Gardens the setting of a vibrant community built on artistry and celebration. Beer masterclasses and beer-related games will be held throughout the weekend, so come join in! 

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Raise a glass to Philippine-made beers and mark your calendars for May 16 to 18, 2025! Register here.

The Mabrewhay Craft Beer Festival is co-presented by Ayala Land and Make It Makati, and is sponsored by Ayala Land Premier, Ayala Malls, BPI, GCash, Grab, and Yakima Chief Hops. 

Follow Make It Makati on Facebook and Instagram for more upcoming events and updates! 

Location: Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati City, Philippines

Opening Hours: 4 PM to 1 AM (Friday), 10 AM to 1 AM (Saturday), 10 AM to 8 PM (Sunday)

Admission: Free

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Manila/ Delish/ Happenings
Where to Treat Mom: Hotel Dining Offers to Check Out This Mother's Day
Mothers Day hotel dining offers Photo by Conrad Manila/Facebook

This Mother’s Day, go beyond the usual bouquet and treat the queen of your life to an indulgent dining experience she’ll never forget. From lavish buffets and elegant afternoon teas to thoughtfully curated set menus, some of the city’s top hotels are rolling out exclusive offers designed to celebrate moms in the most delicious way possible. 

Whether she’s craving international flavors, classic local favorites, or luxurious sweet treats, there’s something to match every taste and mood. Here are the best hotel dining experiences to spoil your mom with on her special day!

Honor the Queen of Your Heart at Conrad Manila

Honor the Queen of Your Heart at Conrad Manila
Facebook/Conrad Manila

Celebrate Mother’s Day in grand style at Conrad Manila with indulgent dining and sweet surprises fit for a queen. Treat Mom to a sumptuous buffet at Brasserie on 3 on May 11, 2025 for P3,800 nett per person — plus, she dines for free with every four paying adults

For something more refined, China Blue by Jereme Leung offers an elegant lunch and dinner set menu from May 11 to 12, 2025 at P4,998 nett per person (minimum of five guests). Looking for a take-home treat? Swing by Bru Coffee Bar from May 1 to 11, 2025 for themed cakes and decadent pastries starting at P120 nett.

MOMents of Love at Okada Manila

Moments of Love at Okada Manila
Facebook/Okada Manila

Celebrate Mother’s Day in style at Okada Manila with specially curated dining experiences across its signature restaurants. At Yu Lei, indulge in refined Chinese cuisine with a special set menu available from April 15 to May 11, 2025 (12 NN to 11 PM, Tuesdays to Sundays) for P6,000 nett per person.

La Piazza promises a cozy yet elegant family dinner with a 7-course Italian feast for four, featuring dishes like Tartare di Tonno and Iberico Pork Chop, from May 10 to 11, 2025 (5 PM to 11 PM) for P10,000 nett. Over at Enbu, enjoy a festive Japanese set menu for four that highlights bold robatayaki flavors for P5,088 nett from May 9 to 11, 2025.

For those who love variety, Medley Buffet offers a Mother’s Day-exclusive spread on May 11, 2025, priced at P4,500 for adults and P2,250 for children. Buffet hours are 11:30 AM to 3 PM for lunch and 6 PM to 11 PM for dinner. Don’t forget to stop by the Lobby Lounge Pastry Shop as well from May 1 to 15, 2025 for exquisite sweets, whether as a thoughtful gift or dessert finale, starting at P450.

Celebrate Mom Like a Queen at Savoy Hotel Manila

Celebrate Mom Like a Queen This Mother’s Day at Savoy Hotel Manila

Celebrate Mom like royalty this May 11, 2025 with a festive Filipino buffet at Savoy Café, Savoy Hotel Manila. In honor of Mother’s Day, their “Pistang Pinoy spread gets a special twist, featuring iconic dishes from beloved local festivals. Highlights include Lumpiang Sariwa from Bulacan’s Singkaban Festival, Cebu Lechon Belly from Sinulog, Chicken Binakol from Ati-Atihan, and Sinuglaw from Mindanao’s Kadayawan Festival, among other regional delights. 

To make the day even more memorable, all moms will receive a complimentary flower cupcake and be serenaded with live entertainment. Dine as a group of four paying adults and get one guest in for free.

Mom's Blissful Journey on Mother's Day at The Peninsula Manila

Mom's Blissful Journey on Mother's Day at The Peninsula Manila
Website/The Peninsula Manila

Celebrate with an unforgettable day of luxury at The Peninsula Manila this May 11, 2025. From indulgent dining to pampering spa experiences, every detail is crafted to make Mom feel cherished. Take to the skies with Old Manila’s Fly & Dine package, combining a breathtaking aerial tour with a decadent four-course French meal for lunch or dinner. For a classic fine dining experience, Old Manila also offers its signature four-course French set menu for a more grounded, yet equally exquisite, celebration.

You can also treat Mom to a refined afternoon tea at The Lobby, complete with delightful pastries and a special gift with every tea set. Or gather the family for Escolta’s lavish Sunday brunch featuring global and Asian favorites, where Mom dines for free with every four paying guests.

Enjoy a Weekend of Indulgence at Solaire Resort Entertainment City

Enjoy a Weekend of Indulgence at Solaire Resort Entertainment City
Photo by Solaire Resort Entertainment City

Treat your Mom to a weekend of indulgence at Solaire Resort Entertainment City! Start her special day with Afternoon Tea at Oasis Garden Café, featuring a delightful selection of sweet and savory treats, from chamomile macarons to cranberry salmon gravlax. For brunch, enjoy a feast at Finestra, offering delicious dishes like Radicchio Risotto and Pan-fried Mackerel, along with unlimited champagne or spritz

If Mom loves seafood, Red Lantern serves an all-you-can-eat dim sum buffet, while Yakumi features eight live cooking stations offering everything from grilled lobsters to Japanese sake-steamed seabream. For a more casual vibe, Waterside offers a traditional boodle fight with a vibrant spread of Filipino dishes, and Fresh provides an expansive buffet with a global selection.

Celebrate Your Mom and Only at EDSA Shangri-La, Manila

Celebrate Your Mom and Only at EDSA Shangri-La, Manila
Website/EDSA Shangri-La, Manila

Celebrate Mom in style at EDSA Shangri-La, Manila, with delightful dining experiences this May 11, 2025. At HEAT, enjoy a festive lunch buffet featuring Angus Beef Striploin, Roasted Spring Chicken, seafood, and global dishes for P3,800, along with live entertainment and surprises. 

For a relaxing afternoon, the Lobby Lounge offers a charming Afternoon Tea set of sweet and savory treats paired with premium teas, available until May 31, 2025 for P2,100 nett (good for two). Craving Japanese? Senju’s Matsuri Buffet features fresh sushi, sashimi, and grilled favorites at P3,800 nett per person.

Have a Seafood Feast with Mom at Hotel Okura Manila

Have a Seafood Feast with Mom at Hotel Okura Manila
Website/Hotel Okura Manila

Celebrate Mom with an elegant seafood feast at the Kisetsu Buffet in Yawaragi, Hotel Okura Manila, this May 11, 2025. Available for both lunch (12 PM to 3 PM) and dinner (6 PM to 10 PM), the buffet features a wide selection of gourmet dishes, perfect for honoring the most important woman in your life. 

All Moms who will dine in will receive a complimentary Mother's Day mocktail and a special gift. Purchase a bottle of Robert Mondavi Woodbridge Rosé and receive another exclusive gift just for her! The buffet is priced at P3,950++ per adult and P1,975++ per child (ages 6 to 12). Reserve a table now!

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Manila/ Delish/ Happenings
MUJI Finally Opens their Flagship Store in Manila at Glorietta 3
20250430 MUJI Ph Photo by MUJI Philippines/Instagram

Japanese lifestyle brand MUJI has finally opened their 8th and flagship store in Manila at the Glorietta 3 mall! 

It is the brand’s largest outlet in the Philippines, spanning three floors of the Glorietta mall and filled with all their cult favorites and essentials — from stationery, home décor, skincare, clothing, travel, and more. 

Along with the opening of this new branch, MUJI also introduced their first MUJI Bakery in the Philippines, which also includes a huge dining area and a coffee counter

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MUJI Bakery + Coffee Counter at MUJI Glorietta 3

Located on the Ground Floor of the MUJI Flagship Store in Glorietta 3, the MUJI Bakery offers a wide array of sweet and savory bread and other baked goodies that you can enjoy in-store at their expansive dining area. 

Their bread options include Plain Pandesal (P10), Ube Pandesal (P35), Salted Butter Bread (P45), Plain Croissant (P85), Plain Ensaymada (P95), Ube Ensaymada (P115), Sausage Bun (P135), Red Bean & Butter Croissant (P135), Chocolate Croissant (P155), Almond Croissant (P155), Bacon & Egg Round Croissant (P195), and Shoku Pan / Whole Loaf (P195).

The bread menu at MUJI Bakery
Courtesy of MUJI Philippines/Website

MUJI Bakery bakes their bread fresh daily, only offering the best to their patrons. 

Much like their other Coffee Counters in SM North EDSA, SM Mall of Asia, and other branches, the Coffee Counter at Glorietta 3 has the same offerings and refreshments that can be served hot or iced. 

MUJI Glorietta 3 also offers their curry rice meals, soft serve, and other go-to Japanese snacks in-store too. 

The coffee menu at MUJI's Coffee Counters
Courtesy of MUJI Philippines
The coffee and tea menu at MUJI's Coffee Counters
Courtesy of MUJI Philippines

Don’t miss out and check out the MUJI Flagship Store at Glorietta 3 to try out their newest offers! 

Follow MUJI Philippines on their Facebook and Instagram pages for more updates. You can check out their online catalog here.

Location: Levels 1 to 3, Glorietta 3, Ayala Center, Makati, 1226 Metro Manila

Opening Hours: 10 AM to 9 PM (Sundays to Thursdays), 10 AM to 10 PM (Fridays to Saturdays), MUJI Bakery (opens at 8 AM daily). 

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Manila/ Delish/ Reviews
The Best of Brunch: Must-Try Restos Around Metro Manila
Best Brunch Cafes in MNL

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.

The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery

The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery - Brunch
Photo by The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery

Since opening its doors in UP Town Center, Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery has earned a loyal following for its delicious, budget-friendly meals, outstanding house-roasted coffee, and inviting ambiance. Their signature breakfast items, Buttermilk Fried Chicken & Ube Waffles and Shakshuka, are must-tries. Order the Almond Waffle with seasonal fruits and whipped cream or the Kale 'n Scramble with truffled scrambled eggs and crispy kale on sourdough if you prefer a light fare.

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Wildflour Restaurant

Wildflour Restaurant
Photo by Wildflour Restaurant

Wildflour Café + Bakery isn’t just another breakfast spot — it’s a Metro Manila institution where flaky croissants shatter with perfection and ricotta pancakes taste like morning divinity. The resto's artisanal blend of European pastry craft and bold global flavors has redefined brunch for Filipinos, from their Croque Madame and caramelized kouign-amann to Chorizo Fundido dishes. Here, breakfast isn’t just a meal, it’s a ritual for those who believe mornings should always taste good.

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Antipodean Manila

Antipodean Manila
Photo by Antipodean Manila

Antipodean Coffee Roasters Legazpi Village is a must-visit for those who love a leisurely brunch with bold flavors and quality coffee. As one of Asia’s Top 50 Cafés (2022/2023), this cozy spot is known for its hearty breakfast dishes, unique fusion options, and expertly brewed Indonesian coffee. The menu offers everything from classic Eggs Benedict and avocado toast with streaky bacon to more adventurous choices like the Nasi Goreng Big Breakfast and sweetcorn pancakes with butterscotch.

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Flossom Kitchen + Cafe

Flossom Kitchen + Cafe
Photo by Flossom Kitchen + Cafe

Some brunch spots serve food. Flossom Kitchen + Cafe serves happiness on a plate. This San Juan garden-themed restaurant is where classic comfort food gets a gourmet upgrade — imagine fluffy ube pancakes, savory Smoked Salmon stacks, sweet French Toast, and crispy Fried Chicken & Waffles that hit all the right notes to carry you through the day. It’s just the place you’ll want to linger in long after your coffee runs out. 

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Apartment 1B

Apartment 1B
Photo by Apartment 1B

Before "comfort food" became a buzzword, there was Apartment 1B — Chef Marivic Diaz-Lim’s ode to unfussy, soul-warming dishes since 2016. Their Eggs Benedict (a choose-your-own-adventure of ham, mushrooms, or smoked salmon) is the stuff of brunch legends, while three-egg omelettes and grilled pork chops prove why some classics never go out of style. This is where you go when you want brunch to taste like a lazy Sunday morning, no matter the day.

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Exchange Alley Coffee House

Exchange Alley Coffee House
Photo by Website/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 caters to different preferences.

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Bean & Yolk

Bean & Yolk
Photo by Facebook/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.

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Southbank Cafe+Lounge

Southbank Cafe+Lounge
Photo by Instagram/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.

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Bungalow Café & Bakery

Bungalow Café & Bakery
Photo by Instagram/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.

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Cafe Fleur

Cafe Fleur
Photo by Instagram/Cafe Fleur by Chef Sau

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.

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Mirèio

Mirèio
Photo by Website/Raffles Makati

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.

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Jones All Day

Jones All Day
Photo by Website/Rain Tree Hospitality

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.

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Kas & Poly

Kas & Poly
Photo by Facebook/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.

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Cafe Mabini

Cafe Mabini
Photo by Facebook/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.

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The Test Kitchen

The Test Kitchen
Photo by Facebook/The Test Kitchen MNL

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.

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Museya Kafé

Museya Kafé
Photo by Instagram/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 was 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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Manila/ Delish/ Happenings
Celebrate Your Mom at Solaire Resort with Afternoon Tea and Brunch Buffets
Solaire Photo by Solaire Resort Entertainment City

Celebrate the woman who sheds light into our homes by giving her the ultimate special treatment at Solaire Resort Entertainment City.  

This Mother’s Day, treat your mom to a special weekend filled with relaxing stays, lavish brunches, and luxurious spa treatments. Solaire Resort invites you to make your mom feel like a queen by availing some of their special offers, such as booking a Sky Studio room using the Weekend Family Fun offer, which includes a complimentary buffet breakfast at Fresh for two adults and two kids up to 12 years old. By booking a stay, you can also enjoy P2,000 worth of F&B credits at the Pool Bar, and treat mom to a Solaire Signature massage or a soothing facial that will surely make her feel refreshed and relaxed throughout her stay.

Exciting Dining Offers

One thing to love about Solaire Resort is their wide range of culinary delights that satisfy every craving. Make the most of your indulgent stay by starting with a delightful afternoon tea session with mom at Oasis Garden Café, where you can enjoy an assortment of sweet and savory delights from a chamomile macaron and cassis white chocolate petit to a flavorful Salami Milano croquette and cranberry salmon gravlax topped with dill cream cheese. 

Afternoon Tea
Courtesy of Solaire Resort Entertainment City

Other restaurants also offer a delightful brunch buffet perfect for Mother’s Day morning. At Finestra, you can savor an array of recommended dishes such as the Radicchio Risotto with caramel walnuts and guanciale and the Pan-fried Mackerel with broccolini and lemon sauce. The restaurant also offers sweet desserts and unlimited flutes of champagne or Aperol and Campari spritz from their roving aperitivo trolley. You can also have a grand seafood tower, as well as hand-carved roast beef and a curated selection of cold cuts and luxurious desserts served directly to your table. Talk about a feast fit for a queen!

If mom is craving for some Chinese food, Red Lantern has an all-you-can-eat dim sum buffet and offers a variety of dishes from Crystal Skin Lobsters to their Baked Signature Black Pepper Wagyu Beef Tarts. 

For meat lovers, there are eight interactive live stations at Yakumi offering a great selection of seafood and red meats from grilled Boston lobsters and scallops to Kinross lamb chops and US ribeye steak. The marinated miso foie gras teppanyaki and the Tai sake mushi (Japanese sake-steamed seabream with seasonal vegetables) are also a must-try!

Beat the heat at Waterside with a traditionalboodle fight” and savor a vibrant spread of your favorite Filipino dishes. For an even wider selection, Fresh offers diverse buffet stations featuring the finest seafoods and meats, alongside a variety of cuisines including Filipino, Japanese, Korean, Italian, and Chinese. What’s even more awesome is that moms will be served exclusive drinks on the day, right at their table!

boodle fight
Photo from Solaire Resort Entertainment City/Website

What are you waiting for? Plan a weekend of indulgence for mom by booking a room via their website. For reservations, call ahead at 8888-8888 or email [email protected].

Discover more celebratory perks and offers by following Solaire Resort on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram

Get the latest curated content with The Beat Asia's newsletters. Sign up now for a weekly dose of the best stories, events, and deals delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out! Click here to subscribe.