Written by Paolo Vera, Year 12
It’s a well-known fact that Valentine’s Day is the national holiday of consumerism, with storefronts all lined up with giant teddy bears and hearts advertising their latest collections. However, for those of you lucky enough to have a date this fateful holiday, a box of overpriced chocolate and a dozen roses doesn’t cut it anymore. It’s time to splash that cash and take your date out for a romantic meal in some of Manila’s most exclusive restaurants. If you’re single, even better! Go with friends and split the bill. Here are my top picks:
1. Wildflour – and a trip to Farmacy afterwards for something sweet
Location: Ground Floor, Net Lima building, 26th Street, Fort Bonifacio
Price for two: 1500php
Personal favourites: Steak and Egg on Kimchi Fried Rice, Smoked Salmon Croissant, Tiramisu, Cronuts
Perhaps my favourite restaurant on the list, Wildflour is the perfect date night location with low-lighting, wooden fixtures and candles adorning every table. There’s nothing better than a delicious French-inspired menu in a relaxed, “hipster-esque” setting. Make sure you order the Kimchi fried rice. Believe me, it’s life changing.
Added bonus: Newly opened, trendy ice cream salon Farmacy is just one store down. Although the dessert selection in Wildflour is delectable, especially their pastries, save some room for a post-dinner sundae, and maybe even a milkshake to share.
 |
| ourawesomeplanet.com |
Location: Nielson Tower, Ayala Triangle, Makati City, across the Peninsula Hotel
Price for two: 4000php
Personal favourites: Prawn scotch eggs, Twice-cooked beef short rib, Blackbird burger
Although, I admit, Blackbird is slightly overrated and perhaps even a fraction overpriced, the elegant interiors and the timeless art décor create an ambiance that is casually elegant and perfect for a romantic meal. After all, you want to impress your date with your sophistication. Personally, I think the restaurant looks best during the daytime, and I would highly recommend dining outside in Blackbird’s patio area; the scenery is superb.
 |
| lynne-enroute.com |
Location: Purok 138, Barangay Neogan, Luksuhin-Mangas Road, Alfonso, Tagaytay City
Price for two: 4000-6000php
Personal favourites: Everything
Now for all of you ‘big ballers’ out there, treat yourself and head up to the Philippines’ legendary eatery, Antonio’s. Okay, so it may be in the middle of nowhere and the prices may leave in you debt, but believe me, the food is worth it. So break open your piggy bank if you really want to impress your special someone! Just try not to get stuck on the skyway…
Location: Sofitel luxury hotels, Philippine Plaza Manila , CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City
Price for two: 6000php
Personal favourites: Everything
Sofitel spent millions of dollars (around 11 million to be exact) renovating Spirals for a reason! It is easily the best buffet in Manila… sorry Circles and Heat. With so much food, you better come on an empty stomach.
Location: 114 Valero Street Salcedo Village Makati City, Makati
Price for two: 2500php
Personal favourites: Bottarga pasta, AG Wagyu Steak, Chorizo Puffs
With the atmosphere of a high-end New York bistro, you’ll almost forget you’re in the heart of Salcedo Village in Massetto. Chef Tippi Tambunting is at her best in this restaurant and I’ve pretty much become addicted to the Chorizo puffs!
Location: G/F Greenbelt 2, Esperanza St. corner West Drive, Ayala Center, Makati
Price for two: 1200php
Personal favourites: Spicy tuna sashimi, chicken teriyaki, fried rice
In the fast paced Manila food scene, Sugi has been a staple in Japanese cuisine. Offering mouthwatering dishes for an affordable price, Sugi is definitely an A+ date night location. The romantic hanging lanterns don’t hurt either.
 |
| ourawesomeplanet.com |
Price for two: 1200php
Personal favourites: Toro onigiri, Korean fried chicken, Blowtorched salmon
An joint inspired by izakayas (a type of Japanese tavern), 12/10 is often seen as the little brother of the impossibly chic, not to mention perpetually full, Japanese hotspot Mecha Uma. However, 12/10 delivers food just as delicious and for a fraction of the price. It’s modern Japanese cuisine at its finest.
8. Allium
 |
| ourawesomeplanet.com |
Price for two: 1500php
Personal favourites: Wild Japanese Kampachi sampler, Maple Leaf Farms duck, STEAK!
Although not as famous as the other restaurants on this list, Allium is one of the most overlooked culinary destinations in Manila. However, by no means is this an indication of the quality of its food; the dishes here are absolutely first-class. I highly recommend the steak.
Tip: reserve in advance. These restaurants get full pretty easily.
Which restaurant will you most likely be hitting up this Valentine's Day?
