“Table for one, please.”
Dining solo has had quite a bad reputation for a while, but it’s high time to normalize eating alone as perfectly fine and most importantly, enjoyable! Nothing says “treat yourself, self!” than picking out a restaurant you’ve been wanting to try, getting the most delicious dish on the menu, and just relishing time with the best person on earth–you!
Also Read: Top 10 Most Loved Restaurants in BGC for November 2023
Whether you’re taking yourself out on a well-deserved solo date this Valentine’s Day or you just need to flush out social rendezvous from your system, we’ve rounded up a list of restaurants in Metro Manila that are perfect for eating alone, especially during this holiday season. After all, self-love is the best love!
Ginza Gyu – Legazpi Village
What once was a pandemic shop is now a must-try restaurant found in Legazpi Vilalge. Ginza Gyu specializes in elevated, Japanese rice bowls such as Gyudon, Grilled Salmon, and Wagyu Steak Bowl!
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: The moody lighting, the classy, minimalist interiors, and the casual vibes of the restaurant is perfect for a treat yourself date. It’s generally quiet and less crowded, allowing you to enjoy your food in peace!
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Panco Cafe – The Podium and Legazpi Village
Panco Cafe is a restaurant and cafe that boasts of flavors inspired by Melbourne and Manila. On their menu, you’ll find delicious, hearty dishes that can be ordered Manila-style (with rice) or Melbourne-style (in between bread) as well as a selection of coffee beverages and desserts!
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: The place is not as loud and crowded as other cafe-restaurants because most customers are there for a casual catchup or a work session. You’ll love the spacious seating, the art works on the walls, and the minimalist interiors that will make you feel relaxed.
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Nikkei Nama Bar – multiple branches
Nikkei promises a burst of flavor and creatives twists from their Japanese-Peruvian inspired dishes. Apart from traditional Japanese favorites like sushi, sashimi, and nigiri, other must-trys are their grilled dishes, rice bowls, and speciatly drinks!
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: You’ll appreciate the relaxed atmosphere of the place that’s buzzing with a calm energy. The moody lighting is an invitation to wind down and let the attentive staff help you enjoy the meal that you deserve!
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Flossom Kitchen + Cafe – N. Averilla St.
Flossom Kitchen + Cafe is San Juan’s hidden gem, offering a wide variety of comfort food dishes that are hefty in portions. Come here for a quiet brunch where you can pass the time with good coffee!
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: It’s a neighborhood restaurant which means it’s far from the hustle and bustle of the city. The general atmosphere is peaceful and relaxing, while still being vibrant from the interiors!
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187 N. Averilla St, Sta. Lucia, San Juan
(02) 365-6900
Crepe Talk Cafe – Tomas Morato
Enjoy Crepe Talk Cafe’s selection of sweet and savory crepes in different flavors! This tropical themed resto-cafe gives off chill and casual vibes, making it the best place to enjoy comfort food dishes.
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: If you prefer the casual and homey type of setting, then Crepe Talk is the spot for you. Come in your comfy clothes and enjoy pastas, sandwiches, crepes, and dessert!
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57 Scout Tobias, Quezon City
Commune – Poblacion
Commune is a community cafe that specializes in its famous 3D foam latte art, but all the more for championing Philippine coffee. They also serve pastries and light meals to pair with their handcrafted drinks. From time to time, they host events here like open mic nights and poetry nights.
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: Many come to the third-wave coffee shop for its relaxing atmosphere, a fair share of electrical outlets, and reliable wifi. Revel in their excellent coffee and sit by the window to people-watch.
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36 Polaris cor Durban Street, Poblacion, Makati
(02) 8275-6324; (0919) 859-5848
Wabi Sabi & Ikigai Kakigori – Makati Cinema Square
Wabi Sabi & Ikigai Kakigori are the epitome of simplicity with its unassuming interiors and comfort food dishes. Wabi Sabi’s menu boasts of delicious vegetarian dishes while Ikigai specializes in Japanese melt-in-your-mouth shaved ice dessert called Kakigōri gains most of its flavor from its sweet syrup and condensed milk
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: Their interiors are small and quaint as the café and restaurant is still considered a secret spot for their Japanese food and dessert. Although it’s an intimate space, their servings are good enough for sharing, which means you can enjoy a big kakigori all to yourself.
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YAYOI – Megamall
YAYOI is a contemporary Japanese restaurant offering set menu dining called Teishoku, which includes a balanced tray of rice, miso soup, tsukemono (Japanese pickles), an entrée, and a side dish.
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: Yayoi is an introvert’s haven. All you have to do is place your order through their efficient iPad ordering system and have your delicious Teishoku within 15 minutes!
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Yakiniku Like – MOA and Megamall
Yakiniku Like boasts of “Tasty! Quick! Value!” Japanese barbecue! Here, you can have affordable and scrumptious Yakiniku in a portion size that’s perfect for one! Come here if you’re not a fan of unlimited barbecue but prefer high-quality, delicious meats!
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: Yakiniku Like has mini smokeless grill that are designed specifically for solo diners! Enjoy your serving yourself delicious meats paired with sauces, sides, and a mountain of rice!
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Level 2, South Entertainment Mall, Mall of Asia, Pasay | Building A, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong
Mendokoro Ramenba – multiple branches
Serving arguably one of the best ramen bowls in Metro Manila, Mendokoro Ramenba is a 21-seater ramen joint from the people behind Alabang’s Ramen Yushoken.
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: Solo diners get priority seating despite the long lines since there’s limited space in the bar. You might also initially feel awkward sitting around groups, but don’t worry; you’ll be seated directly in front of the open kitchen where you can peacefully watch the chefs go.
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Hai Chix & Steaks – multiple branches
Specializing in premium cut steaks and flavorful Hainanese Chicken, Hai Chix & Steaks brings together the best flavors or West and East. Indulge in high-quality comfort food that’s worth your money!
Why it’s perfect for dining solo: Having an expensive, delicious dinner is one of the best ways to pamper and treat yourself after working hard all week! Indulge with Hai Chix’s steaks and Hainanese chicken, and after that, get crepes for dessert at Cooper Coffee Haus, which is also inside the restaurant!
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Want some more? Just check out our blog for more posts like this! Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram @bookyapp and use #BookyManila when you dine out, to get a chance to be featured in our future posts!