food guide manila

Exploring new restaurants is always an exciting adventure, especially when you discover hidden or not-so-hidden, but also not-talked-about-much, gems that offer unforgettable experiences.

Here’s a guide to seven underrated dining spots that deserve a spot on your must-visit list. Each restaurant boasts unique dishes, distinctive ambiance, and a culinary story worth sharing.

1. Marcia Adams’ Restaurant (Tagaytay, Cavite)

Nestled in the serene countryside of Tagaytay, Marcia Adams Restaurant transports diners to a Mediterranean escape. The rustic Tuscan-inspired decor and lush gardens set the perfect mood for a relaxing meal. Their set menu, starting at PHP 991– 3000 per person, includes an appetizer, main course, and dessert. Must-tries include the Amalfi Prawns, with its tangy and savory flavors, and the Grilled Aromatic Pork, seasoned to perfection. It’s an ideal spot for intimate gatherings or special celebrations.

👍🏻 https://web.facebook.com/MarciaAdamsResto/
📍 Sikat Rd, Alfonso, 4123 Cavite

2. Vieux Chalet (Antipolo, Rizal)

Located in the hills of Antipolo, Vieux Chalet combines Swiss-inspired cuisine with Filipino warmth. Guests are treated to a homey ambience filled with mementos of artistic and classic past. Signature dishes like raclettes, steaks, and pastas are made with the best fresh ingredients. They also have brunch platters for those who want set meals. Prices range from PHP 1,000 to  1,500 per person, making it a great choice for those seeking a cozy yet elegant dining experience.

👍🏻  https://www.facebook.com/vieuxchaletswissrestaurant/ 
📍  456 Taktak Rd, Antipolo, 1870 Rizal

3. Garlic Kitchen (Maginhawa, QC)

For garlic lovers, this quirky spot in Maginhawa is a must-visit. Garlic Kitchen creatively infuses garlic into every dish, elevating comfort food staples to new heights. Crowd favorites include the Fermented garlic scallop pasta, Garlic infused lechon baka, and Piri-Piri chicken. And, have you ever tried garlic ice cream? Well, they offer one here, and people rave about it!

Menu prices range from PHP 180 and 955 pesos, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

👍🏻 https://www.facebook.com/@garlickitchen.maginhawa/
📍 56 Maginhawa, Diliman, Lungsod Quezon, Kalakhang Maynila

4. Tahanan Bistro (Antipolo, Rizal)

Tahanan Bistro offers contemporary Filipino cuisine in an enchanting setting. Housed in a beautifully crafted wooden home overlooking a lush garden, it’s as much a visual treat as it is a culinary delight. Their salu-salo lunch meal is priced at PHP 1,750 per head. It’s complete with starters, appetizers, salad, main dishes, and dessert. For the mains, some of the crowd favorites are Bistek, Binagoongan, and Pininyahang Manok. The blend of artful interiors, breathtaking views, and exquisite food makes it a unique destination.

👍🏻 https://web.facebook.com/tahanan.bistro/ 
📍 22 Loresville Drive, Lores Farm Subdivision, Antipolo, 1870

5. Lao Tai-Pei (Kapitolyo, Pasig)

Lao Tai-Pei is a delightful Taiwanese restaurant located at 12-C East Capitol Drive, Brgy Kapitolyo, Pasig. The restaurant is known for its authentic Taiwanese flavors and a well-organized menu that features a variety of delicious dishes. When you visit, order their oyster omelette, pork dumplings, fried chicken, and stinky tofu. You can also try their dim sums like xiaolongbao, kutchay dumplings, and custard buns. 

But, whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or just want to try something new, Lao Tai-Pei is a great spot to experience Taiwanese cuisine in the heart of Pasig

👍🏻 https://web.facebook.com/laotaipeiph/ 
📍 12 C E Capitol Dr, Pasig, 1603 Metro Manila

6. Hai Chix & Steaks (Ortigas, Pasig)

Hai Chix & Steaks is a standout destination in Pasig, situated at Unit 149-150 Building Citylite Place Home Depot Complex. This restaurant masterfully blends American and Asian influences to deliver a diverse and delightful culinary experience.

At the heart of their menu, you’ll find succulent garlic shrimps, aromatic laksa, and tender Hainanese chicken, all prepared with utmost care and precision. For steak enthusiasts, their offerings like steak frites and Angus prime rib are sure to impress. The ambiance is inviting and sophisticated, creating the perfect backdrop for an enjoyable meal.

👍🏻 https://web.facebook.com/haichixandsteaks
📍 Doña Julia Vargas Ave, Pasig

7. Kikufuji Izakaya (Makati)

Kikufuji Izakaya is a gem tucked away in Makati, renowned for its authentic Japanese cuisine. This cozy restaurant offers an inviting ambiance that captures the essence of a traditional izakaya.The menu is a treasure trove of Japanese delights, featuring mouth-watering gyu kushi (grilled beef skewers), flavorful spicy beef, and perfectly grilled tuna. Sushi and sashimi lovers will find a haven here, with fresh and expertly crafted selections. The tempura is light and crispy, adding to the array of choices that cater to all palates.

From the impeccable service to the genuine flavors, it’s as if you’ll get transported straight to Japan minus the hefty ticket price. 

👍🏻 https://web.facebook.com/p/Kikufuji-Izakaya-100063650276190/?_rdc=1&_rdr 
📍 Little Tokyo, Central Bus. Dist. Brgy., 2277 Chino Roces Ave, Makati

Plan your next culinary adventure!

Each of these restaurants offers something special, from unique flavors and stunning views to cozy ambiances and impeccable service. Whether you’re a fan of Mediterranean, Swiss, Filipino, Taiwanese, or Japanese cuisine, these underrated spots promise a dining experience you won’t forget.

Which one are you visiting first? Let us know in the comments or tag us in your foodie adventures!

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