ENBU hits different — red lanterns, smoky yakitori, pure Tokyo izakaya energy 🔥🇯🇵 @okadamanila

By Anton Diaz
Topics: #Philippines

ENBU is a Japanese comfort food spot by Okada’s culinary team, known for authentic flavors and an intimate red-lantern ambiance that channels a warm Tokyo izakaya vibe. Counter seating offers a front-row view of the kitchen theater, where yakitori is grilled over charcoal and dishes are prepared in an open kitchen.  Our kids love Japanese … Continue reading ENBU hits different — red lanterns, smoky yakitori, pure Tokyo izakaya energy 🔥🇯🇵 @okadamanila

La Piazza might just be the best Italian ristorante in Manila 🍷🇮🇹✨@okadamanila

By Anton Diaz
Topics: #Philippines

La Piazza is the signature Italian restaurant of Okada Manila, with Executive Chef Mattia Stroppa at the helm. We first visited in 2018 during Okada’s early years, and this time we were really impressed with the quality of the Italian food, the fine dining service that is friendly and not stiff, and the Okada fountain … Continue reading La Piazza might just be the best Italian ristorante in Manila 🍷🇮🇹✨@okadamanila

Pat & Pat: The best new restaurant in the Diliman/ Katipunan area?! 👀

By Anton Diaz
Topics: #Philippines

Pat & Pat just leveled up — from a beloved neighborhood spot in Capitol Hills, it has transformed into an all-day dining destination tucked in Old Balara, Diliman. Named after Patrick and his daughter Patricia Gregorio, this might just be one of the best new restaurants near the vibrant UP–Ateneo dining scene. The food is … Continue reading Pat & Pat: The best new restaurant in the Diliman/ Katipunan area?! 👀

TADHANA by Chef Frances Tariga opens in Manila 🇵🇭✨ (First Impressions)

By Anton Diaz
Topics: #Philippines

TADHANA MAKATI boldly opened its doors at La Reserve — the luxurious fourth-floor dining space inside the Levanto design showcase by the Mama Lou’s Group — marking David and Crystal’s first major move into Manila’s fiercely competitive modern Filipino fine dining scene. In partnership with MLG Executive Chef Frances Tariga, the concept arrives as a tag-team experience alongside … Continue reading TADHANA by Chef Frances Tariga opens in Manila 🇵🇭✨ (First Impressions)

OGAWA: Manila’s favorite Japanese restaurant is back—here’s what’s new

By Anton Diaz
Topics: #Philippines

OGAWA — Manila’s favorite Japanese restaurant for both locals and Japanese nationals — finally reopens at Shoppes at McKinley West 🇯🇵✨The interiors are stunning, especially the signature bridge — fitting, since “Ogawa” means river 🌊 The iconic original door adds an authentic touch, while the glowing lanterns and nighttime lighting make it feel like you’re walking through … Continue reading OGAWA: Manila’s favorite Japanese restaurant is back—here’s what’s new

La Taperia Martinez: the Manila tapas bar that feels just like Spain 🇪🇸

By Anton Diaz
Topics: #Philippines

La Taperia Martinez is Chef Luis Martinez’s Spanish tapas bar, celebrating the spirit of Spain through shareable dishes, fine wines, and crafted cocktails. It now occupies the former La Picara space as the anchor Spanish restaurant of One Bonifacio High Street Mall. Dining here brings back memories of Spain—from food trips in La Boqueria, Barcelona, … Continue reading La Taperia Martinez: the Manila tapas bar that feels just like Spain 🇪🇸

Super Uncle Claypot: now we know why Michelin recommends this Manila Claypot spot!

By Anton Diaz
Topics: #Philippines

Super Uncle Claypot is a tribute to the creator of the Michelin Bib Gourmand claypot rice restaurant in Guangzhou, who shared the authentic Cantonese secrets of Chao Ji Claypot Rice — from the process of cooking claypot rice to achieve that golden-brown char, to the secret sauce, and even the right ceramic bowls to use. … Continue reading Super Uncle Claypot: now we know why Michelin recommends this Manila Claypot spot!

Zagin Soba: Manila’s New Favorite Ramen? (Review)

By Anton Diaz
Topics: #Philippines

Zagin Soba, the Osaka-born ramen franchise, is now one of our favorites for its rich, creamy chicken-based broth—a lighter indulgence compared to the usual pork tonkotsu. It’s a great outside-the-mall spot where you can still grab a seat at the bar even on a Friday night, and while those who prefer light, dashi-based broths may … Continue reading Zagin Soba: Manila’s New Favorite Ramen? (Review)

Sake in Manila is having a moment—here’s your guide @SakeManila

By Anton Diaz
Topics: #Philippines

If you love Japanese food and sake, this is one event you shouldn’t miss. 🍶 Sake Manila 2026 is one of my favorite food experiences in Manila, happening at Okada Manila, where guests can enjoy some of Japan’s finest sake paired with authentic Japanese cuisine, all while experiencing vibrant Japanese cultural showcases. This third edition … Continue reading Sake in Manila is having a moment—here’s your guide @SakeManila

Wayan House guide: Inside Pansol’s most luxurious Airbnb 👀

By Anton Diaz
Topics: #Philippines

Wayan House, a Balinese-inspired hot spring Airbnb at the foot of Mount Makiling, truly delivered. We kicked off summer with a classic Pansol getaway surrounded by family and friends, enjoying stunning mountain views from the infinity pool and a fun steak cook-off in the chef-ready kitchen. The game room—complete with air hockey, console games, and mahjong—kept everyone entertained … Continue reading Wayan House guide: Inside Pansol’s most luxurious Airbnb 👀