Hidden Bars Around the Metro that Should Be in Your Radar
Manila definitely has its own secrets — especially when it comes to speakeasies. Hidden doors, secret passwords, and vibes straight out of the Prohibition era, speakeasies in the metro are giving nightlife a mysterious and stylish twist.
Whether you're looking for expertly crafted cocktails, a cool place to unwind, or an escape from the noise, these tucked-away gems promise an experience worth coming back to. Ready to find your next hidden hangout? Here's a list of Metro Manila's best-kept (not so) secret bars that you need to check out for yourself.
OTO
One way to know if you’re going to have a good night when you’re out partying is when your bar of choice has good music and drinks. Luckily for you, OTO crosses all that out. One of Makati’s greatest bars, it deserved its spot on Asia’s 50 Best Bars for 2019 (#47), 2021 (#61), and 2022 (#63).
OTO, a specialty coffee shop, craft cocktail lounge, and listening room all in one, is tucked away in a quiet street in Poblacion, the city’s most popular nightlife spot. With a curated vinyl collection behind the DJ booth, OTO — whose name comes from the Japanese word for “sound” — adds to its already sophisticated atmosphere with its polished cocktail menu.
Offering the classics and their own creations, OTO is the perfect place to be if you’re looking for a place to unwind after a busy work week. Our suggestion? Euphoria (P500) — no, not the TV show — but the cocktail that combines Tanqueray Dry Gin, Tonic Water, Lychee, and Coconut Water. Be warned: Its clear aesthetic might just fool you into thinking it's iced water or plain soda!
Location: OTO, 5880 Enriquez St., Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City 1209
Opening Hours: 11 AM to 1 AM (Tuesdays-Thursdays), 11 AM to 2 AM (Fridays-Saturdays)
Run Rabbit Run
Looking for a place to satisfy your whimsy and still feel chill? Join us as we fall down the rabbit hole and say hello to your newest wonderland, Run Rabbit Run.
Established in 2018 in an old residential home in Poblacion, Makati, Run Rabbit Run offers a different drinking experience for everyone — dates, friendly conversations, you name it. Homey and a little bit vintage, this cocktail bar finds inspiration in childhood fantasies and quirks, adding a fun little twist to your usual drinks of choice and making it rave among cocktail enthusiasts.
Our drink of choice? That would be their staple: Chillin' Like a Villain (P495). Made with gin, peach liqueur, azucar de caña, egg white, and sampaguita mist, this floral drink is perfect for kicking off the night or ending it on a chill note.
Location: Run Rabbit Run, 4991 P. Guanzon St., Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City 1210
Opening Hours: 6 PM to 1 AM (Tuesdays-Thursdays), 6 PM to 3 AM (Fridays-Saturdays)
Out Of Office
Had a long and busy workday? Proceed to Out Of Office, situated in the center of Bonifacio Global City (BGC). From the outside, it all seems unassuming; its dark, modern-industrial chic style looks lowkey, but as soon as you walk in, you’re met with sleek interiors and an air of sophistication.
Patrons have often raved about their corporate-themed special cocktails and their Asian-inspired meals, making the place a go-to for many. Add a good DJ into the mix? Immaculate. These vibes are what we all need every EOD.
Our order? We’re always in for the mysterious — go for their Confidential (P500) cocktail whose ingredients are a mystery! If you’re looking for a cocktail whose ingredients are not redacted? Our top picks are The Hemingway Cocktail #2 (P420) or Hazelnut Spritz (P420).
Location: Out Of Office, G/F High Street South Corporate Plaza, 11th Ave. corner 26th Street, Taguig City 1635
Opening Hours: 4 PM to 1 AM (Sundays-Wednesdays), 4 PM to 2 AM (Thursdays-Saturdays)
The Whisky Library
From the name itself, The Whisky Library is a repository of whiskies, rums, and spirits from all over the world. Like those gentleman clubs we see in movies, the interior is luxurious and opulent. The Whisky Library, housed within the Newport World Resorts, is a haven for the whisky connoisseur, a welcoming introduction to the public, and a place for people who simply want to add a cosmopolitan touch to their drinking experience.
You'll be served by friendly and knowledgeable staff who are well-versed in the flavors and varieties of your drink, so you're sure to have a stunningly good time.
Plus, they even offer a happy hour from 5 to 8 PM, so you’re in good hands. Take a gander at their exclusive whiskey offerings, from Tamnavulin, Dalmore, Jura, and Dewar’s, if that’s your taste.
Location: The Whisky Library, 2nd Floor, Grand Wing, Newport World Resorts, Pasay City 1300
Opening Hours: Daily from 5 PM to 1 AM
The Curator Coffee & Cocktails
If OTO was already on your list, then you can’t miss its older and more refined sibling, The Curator.
The Curator Coffee & Cocktails is the Best Bar in the Philippines and has consistently ranked among Asia’s best bars. Located in Legazpi Village in Makati, they’re said to only cater to “two of the finest things in life: caffeinated beverages and mixed drinks.”
The Curator’s minimalist yet cozy ambiance is just part of the reason why people come back; their coffee and cocktail offerings are just chef’s kiss, as they say. Presenting drinks perfectly curated to everyone’s tastes with artistic flair and expertise, The Curator is one to not miss out on.
We’d suggest trying any of their coffee menu during the day, then a taste of the Golden Ticket during the evening. That drink was inspired by Tim Burton's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Location: The Curator Coffee & Cocktails, 134 Legazpi St., cor. C. Palanca St., Legazpi Village, Makati City 1229
Opening Hours: 7 AM to 5 PM (Coffee Hours, Daily), 6:30 PM to 1 AM (Cocktail Hours, Tuesdays-Sundays)
After Hours
Intimacy has become a luxury these days. For this Quezon City bar, however, intimacy is just equal to common courtesy. The After Hours cocktail bar presents itself as a sanctuary for the after-hours, inviting all of its guests to come in, unwind, and enjoy a nice drink, courtesy of their bartenders.
After Hours offers craft cocktails, a curated wine selection, and great whisky options fit for everyone’s tastes. They also have a dinner menu, with their Sinigang Risotto being the star of the show.
Their bartenders have recently revealed a creative selection of signature cocktails called, “The Bartender’s Playground.” What we’re dying to try? The Fab Four, made with sake, cognac, islay scotch, cherry wine, and brandied cherry. Or the Vodka Condensada which is made with vodka, ube macapuno, condensed milk, coffee liquor, cold brew, coconut milk, and topped with desiccated coconut.
Location: After Hours, 125 Roces Ave, Quezon City 1103
Opening Hours: 5 PM 'til late daily
The Blind Pig
Opening back in 2011, The Blind Pig is the country’s first speakeasy — the Father of Filipino Speakeasies, as some say. Its name comes from the Prohibition era, living up to the speakeasy experience to the tee and pairing the ambiance with exclusivity and privacy.
The speakeasy is dimly lit and very intimate, and they’re strict with keeping the secrecy of it all with their no-photos policy. Their menu caters to light bites that pair nicely with their cocktail offers. If you don’t know what to get, then you can opt for The Bartender’s Choice (starts at P495), wherein they'll make your drink based on your preferences and mood.
If you’ve been wanting that authentic speakeasy vibe, then this place is your best bet.
Location: The Blind Pig, Ground Valuepoint Building 227 Salcedo Street, Legaspi Village Makati City 1200
Opening Hours: 6 PM to 2 AM (Sundays-Thursdays), 6 PM to 3 AM (Fridays-Saturdays)
Just Some Tips!
- Make a reservation. Most of these places have limited seating, so it’s recommended to book way ahead of time.
- Dress nicely. Think of it as respecting the place and vibe of these upscale bars.
- Ask your bartenders anything! Sometimes, the best things aren’t on the menu.
- Enjoy the mystery of it all. Discovering good bars in the most unexpected places can be one of the best feelings ever.
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