In the words of the Biebs: “Where Are Ü Now?”
The food scene in Manila has definitely exploded over the past couple of years. There are new restaurants opening left and right, and it doesn’t seem like a month can go by without some big foreign brand announcing their entry into the Philippine market.
For the sake of that delicious feeling of nostalgia though, why not take a look at some of the best-loved restaurants from years gone by? You may have forgotten about some of them, but we’re willing to bet that your inner child has not.
Whistlestop
Originally opened: 1970s along Pasay Rd., Makati
Known for: Being our parents’ go-to spot for late night munchies. It was one of the first – and only – places in Manila that was open 24/7 back then.
Latest news: After closing down in 2005 Whistlestop reopened in 2007 under new management.
Recommended dishes: 1977 Vintage Tapa, Salpicao & Garlic Pasta, Hainanese Chicken Rice
Reservations are accepted
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The Old Spaghetti House
Originally opened: 2003 along Katipunan Avenue
Known for: Offering delicious Italian comfort food at reasonable prices that are especially appealing to students.
Latest news: The Old Spaghetti House updated their menu in 2012 with the help of, among others, celebrity chef Gino Ferrari. Unlimited pasta promo included!
Recommended dishes: Meatballs Pasta, Pesto Grilled Chicken, Mylene’s Creamy Pinoy Pasta
https://instagram.com/p/BCfH0tyCuPy/
Reservations are accepted
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Racks
Originally opened: In the early 90’s
Known for: Its tender, “falls-off-the-bone” ribs together with its Original Barbecue Sauce and Extra Hot variant (use sparingly!).
Latest news: After booming in the 90’s thanks to its flame-grilled ribs, Racks fell into some hard times but was revived under new ownership in 2006 and has bounced back quite well.
Recommended dishes: The Onion Brick, Racks Classic Pork Ribs, Mac & Cheese
Reservations are accepted
View their Instagram account
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Almon Marina
Originally opened: 1990, as a cold seafood store and deli
Known for: Its charming, old-world style interior and large selection of different sandwiches and other dishes from around the world.
Latest news: Almon Marina celebrated its 25-year anniversary last August 2015. Looks like it’s still going strong.
Recommended dishes: Callos, Stuffed Pork Chop, Reuben Sandwich of New York, Michael Zuni’s Tuna, but really their sandwiches are all try-worthy in general.
https://instagram.com/p/5iyofeo1IT/
Reservations are accepted
View their Instagram account
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Don Henrico’s
Originally opened: 1993 in Baguio City.
Known for: Generous servings and Italian food made for the Filipino palate
Latest news: Don Henrico’s offers an Eat-All-You-Can promo at selected stores on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Recommended dishes: Buffalo Wings, Classic Carbonara Pasta, Spaghetti with Meatballs
Reservations are accepted
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DADS-Saisaki-Kamayan
Originally opened: 1993
Known for: Being one of (if not the first) buffet restaurants here in Manila, with prices that are easy on the pocket without compromising on the selection.
Latest news: DADS Ultimate Buffet recently rebranded and became DADS World Buffet to better reflect the international nature of all of the dishes they offer.
Recommended dishes: DADS Roast Lamb, Saisaki salmon sashimi, Kamayan Pritchon de Leche
Reservations are accepted
View their Instagram account
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Alex III
Originally opened: 1985
Known for: Being the go-to place for family gatherings and its classic Filipino cuisine. Also: their Java rice and peanut sauce
Latest news: Alex III updated its menu in 2013, adding Japanese and Chinese dishes – both Filipino favorites – to its offerings.
Recommended dishes: Premium Pork Barbecue, Boneless Chicken Barbecue, Lumpiang Shanghai
Reservations are accepted
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Brother’s Burger
Originally opened: 1999 by 3 brothers (hence the name)
Known for: Launching the gourmet burger craze in Manila back in the 90’s-00’s with their flame grilled burgers and premium toppings.
Latest news: Brother’s Burger recently celebrated its 16th anniversary last February.
Recommended dishes: Ranchero Burger, Black Angus Burger, Double Brother’s Burger, Garlic Fries
Reservations accepted
View their Instagram account
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Angel’s Kitchen
Originally opened: 2006
Known for: Its comfortable, homey ambiance and its unique twists on familiar, homecooked favorites (see: chocolate bagoong and ostrich salpicao)
Latest news: Angel’s Kitchen finally started serving breakfast in 2013 to the delight of their patrons.
Recommended dishes: Pinakbet Rice with Lechon Bagnet and Chocolate Bagoong, Ostrich Salpicao, Choco Lava Cake
Reservations are accepted
View full menu
View their Instagram account
+63 2 721-8822
Pancake House
Originally opened: 1974
Known for: Being the go-to spot for families and friends looking for delicious, familiar comfort food and, of course, pancakes.
Latest news: Many Pancake House favorites are now available for you to buy, take home and cook yourself. Yes, their legendary spaghetti sauce is included.
Recommended dishes: Blueberry Pancake, Steak & Eggs, House Special Set, Tacos
Reservations are accepted
View their Instagram account
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What was your favorite go-to restaurant growing up? Even a 3-5 year gap can already make a difference in this list. So share them and let us know in the comments section below!
For a handy list of restaurants anywhere and everywhere you go, download Book (it’s free on both iOS and Android), because you don’t need internet to search for restaurants. Try it!
