Local LGBTQIA-owned Businesses to Support Beyond Pride Month

How does one become a good ally?

While events such as Pride marches and festivals are a great way to bring the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies together, the objective of Pride Month is not constrained within those four weeks of celebrations. To make a tangible impact, we must back the community by electing politicians who can make a legal dent in our calls for equality, as well as by supporting their endeavors in whatever form: whether through the art they make, the food they sell, or the expert service they offer.

Here are LGBTQIA+-owned businesses in Metro Manila that you can support to celebrate the community far beyond Pride Month!

Butterboy PH

Butterboy PH combines two things we love the most: brunch and drag. Their unassuming space in Quezon City transforms into a stage where beloved drag queens clad in their glitziest outfits wow the audience. Queer owners Hilder Demeterio and Jayson So said the idea is to make drag accessible even to those already in bed by 9 PM. That means you can enjoy your hot croissants in broad daylight, while the queens dance, twist, split, and wow the audience.

Location: Butterboy PH, 81 Basa Street, Barangay Paltok, Quezon City

Weekend Wanda

Designing “weekend wear for the wandering woman,” Weekend Wanda advocates for body positivity with their inclusive pieces. Their swimwear lines have up to XXXL in tones that complement a range of complexions. Photographer and founder Alan Segui revealed in a Philstar interview that the brand was initially intended to menswear, before eventually switching to women’s wear to make up for the lack of ethically sourced clothing in this segment.

Location: Weekend Wanda, Shop Online

Barbiero

A wordplay on “Barbie” and “barbero,” Barbiero sounds exactly like it is. This Binãn-based barber shop trains their employees on SOGIE, including asking customers of their preferred pronouns. Owner Paul Sumayao built the brand in 2022 to create a safe space for the queer community, especially in a space often linked to the macho culture. Walking the talk, Barbiero plans to employ more queer barbers for equal representation in the men-dominated profession.

Location: Barbierro, San Francisco, Halang, Binãn

Sebastian’s Ice Cream

Sebastian’s Ice Cream isn’t your typical scoop shop. Pioneering the artisanal ice cream scene in the Philippines since 2006, they continue to surprise dessert lovers with innovative flavors and creativity. The owner’s openness about his sexual orientation sets a powerful example for other entrepreneurs, not just by creating a safe place for people with a sweet tooth, but also by reminding us that diversity makes the world more vibrant.

Location: Sebastian’s Ice Cream, The Podium, 12 ADB Ave, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong

Puesto

If you’re in search of authentic pad thai, chances are you’ll end up in Puesto. This Asian fusion cantina is all the talk on Twitter, where their menu is as appreciated as their effort to remain inclusive. Indeed, queer owner Miel Ochoa is intent on including as many people as possible, with their vegan, vegetarian, and pescetarian food options. Moreover, Ochoa is vocal about their fight for the rights of LGBTQ+ people here in the Philippines.

Location: Puesto, 32A Rd 20, Brgy. Bahay Toro, Quezon City

Prism Restaurant & Café

A pandemic-born business, Prism began by selling beverages online. Owners Grant Zuniga and Aaron Valeroso—partners in business and in life—eventually opened a physical store in Pasay and a restaurant in Lipa, Batangas. With their eye-catching rainbow-themed design and a menu that caters to every palate, Prism proves that diversity in food, like in life, creates something beautiful. Must-try dishes include their Adobo Prism Rice, Rainbow Pancakes, and Love Wins Latte.

Location: Prism Restaurant & Café, El Madero Farm and Resort, Bagong Pook, Lipa City, Batangas

Onlypans Taqueria

Onlypans is more than just a taqueria; they are a testament to resilience and creativity, which are hallmarks of the LGBTQ+ community. What started as a simple food delivery service amidst the lockdowns, is now a popular brand that satisfies cravings for authentic Mexican fare. The owner, Audrey Cruz, takes her tacos seriously. The business began during the pandemic, but instead of tacos, Audrey sold sushi bake online, the hottest commodity in Manila in the midst of COVID-19. A safe place for all, Onlypans Taqueria is now the perfect place to end your night out and grab a satisfying bite.

Location: Onlypans Taqueria, 5663 Don Pedro, Poblacion, Makati