Where to Eat in Malate: 10 Must-Try Restaurants in Malate, Manila
You can't explore Malate and not swing by any of these charming dining spots.
(SPOT.ph) Meet Malate, Manila’s vibrant district where almost every corner cradles a story of the capital’s colorful history. What was once a small fishing village had been transformed into an elite address for American families after the Spanish-American War. It later became a bustling commercial area with boutique hotels and specialty restaurants as well as a sanctuary for many artists and thinkers.
A favorite destination that drew visitors year-round, Malate was also home to the country’s first air-conditioned shopping mall (opened in 1976), famous attractions like the Manila Zoo (opened in 1959), and several historical landmarks such as the Remedios Circle and Malate Church. But perhaps the top reason why tourists fell in love with Malate in its glory days was its legendary nightlife—it’s after sundown that Malate truly came alive as the many music bars, clubs, and lounges became a playground to let loose and revel in the spirit of Manila’s nightlife.
Then and now, Malate’s dining scene is as vibrant and layered as the countless memories this neighborhood holds. The time-tested restaurants, cozy cafes, and unique dining spots that line the streets of Malate all contribute to its charm and give locals and visitors more reasons to keep coming back.
So make time to visit these top restaurants in Malate, Manila:
Café Adriatico
Address: Adriatico Street, near Remedios Circle, Malate, Manila
Operating Hours: Daily, 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 m.n.
Café Adriatico has been serving hearty Filipino and Spanish dishes for the last 45 years. The fact that it’s still operating to this day speaks volumes about its cherished status in the community. Needless to say, it’s a dining gem that generations of Manileños have grown up with. Never leave without trying their signature dishes: Lola Ising’s Adobo Rice, Ensalada Esmeralda, Chicken ala Kiev, Pancit, Palabok, and Chocolate Eh.
Contact details: For more details, visit their Facebook page or contact them at 09178085184.
Pet-friendly? Yes, pets are allowed in their alfresco area.
Tanabe Japanese Restaurant
Address: 553 Remedios St., Malate, Manila
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. / 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
The melt-in-your mouth perfection of their bluefin tuna boasts of flavors that will linger long after you leave Tanabe Japanese Restaurant. It’s that premium and rich. Not surprising at all, especially when renowned Japanese chefs Hiroyuki Fukata and Masataka Hashimoto aimed to serve only the most authentic of Japanese dishes when they built Tanabe 21 years ago. They also have VIP rooms on the second floor if you want a more private dining experience—no extra charge and no minimum order required!
Contact details: For more details, visit their Facebook page or contact them at 09682535389.
Pet-friendly? Yes, pets are allowed in the private rooms, and are requested to be on diaper and leash.
Chung Dam
Address: 2nd Floor, 590 Remedios St., Malate, Manila
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m.
You don’t have to settle for a Korean feast in a standard dining spot when you can indulge in premium Hanwoo meats, Wagyu cuts, and Live King Crab in a luxurious setting. Reflecting the widespread appeal of Korean food, Chung Dam serves the best of this world-famous cuisine. The dining spot guarantees to elevate your Korean dining experience, and transports you to the Land of the Morning Calm in an instant.
Contact details: For more details, visit their Instagram page or contact them at 09177394771.
Pet-friendly? Yes
Century Park Seafood Restaurant
Address: 599 Pablo Ocampo Street, Malate, Manila
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. / 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Loyal patrons and families have been celebrating their special milestones and moments at Century Park Seafood Restaurant for many years now. The Cantonese restaurant’s extensive menu is downright impressive and surely has something for every craving: appetizers, roasting selection, abalone, sea cucumber and fish maw, chef recommendations, seafood side dishes, seafood preparations, side dishes, claypot dishes, rice and noodles selections, shark’s fin, special soup, bird’s nest, Sichuan style dishes, steamed dishes, rice rolls, fried and baked dishes, vegetables and vegetarian selections, and hot and cold desserts. That’s a lot of options right there.
Contact details: For more details, visit their Facebook page or contact them at 09175063785.
Pet-friendly? Yes, pets are allowed in the private rooms.
Casa Armas
Address: 573 J. Nakpil St. Malate, Manila
Operating Hours: Daily, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 m.n.
Experience the heart and soul of Spain, one dish at a time, at Casa Armas. Come with your amigos and amigas, and feast on beloved Spanish dishes, including Patatas Bravas, Croquetas de Pollo, Jamon Serrano, Sopa de Mariscos, Ensalada del Cesar, Huevos a la Flamenca, Lengua Estofada, Steak a la Pobre, Calamares en su Tinta, and Paella Valenciana. With a sangria on hand, you know it’s going to be an epic meal no matter what you choose from the menu.
Contact details: For more details, visit their Facebook page or contact them at 09563103777.
Pet-friendly? No
Wok Inn
Address: 465 Remedios St. Malate, Manila
Operating Hours: Daily, 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
No frills, no flash, just good food to satisfy your palate—this has been how many describe Wok Inn through all these years. Located beside Malate Church, Wok Inn has been a favorite hole in the wall of locals since 1984. The dining spot might look unassuming, but it sure packs a serious punch in the flavor department. Its signature dish, Sipa, is oozing with flavor, delicately wrapped by a crispy, golden wrapper.
Contact details: For more details, visit their Facebook page or contact them at (02) 8526 7744.
Yurakuen
Address: Diamond Hotel Philippines, Corner Roxas Boulevard & J. Quintos Street, Manila
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
As you step inside Diamond Hotel’s Japanese restaurant, you’ll be welcomed by kimono-clad staff, setting the tone for the authentic experience that awaits at Yurakuen. The glass cherry blossom tree and serene rock garden adorned with tropical plants create an atmosphere that instantly transports you to a tranquil Japanese garden. Savor the best of Japanese cuisine in the main dining room, teppanyaki tables, or yakiniku room. No matter where you are seated, you’ll enjoy a taste of the finest culinary gems of the Land of the Rising Sun.
Contact details: For more details, visit their Facebook page or contact them at (02) 5305 3000.
Pet-friendly? No
The Aristocrat Restaurant
Address: 432 San Andres St., Malate, Manila
Operating Hours: Daily, Open 24 hours
It’s nearly impossible to explore Malate without making a stop at The Aristocrat Restaurant. It’s such a legendary dining spot, serving well-loved Filipino food since 1936. The culinary landmark has an enduring appeal that keeps patrons coming back, generation after generation. Their dishes are guaranteed to be “luto mula sa puso” (cooked from the heart), so it doesn’t come as a surprise that the restaurant remains packed with diners to this day. Best-selling dishes include Chicken Barbecue, Lumpiang Shanghai, and Native Hot Chocolate.
Contact details: For more details, visit their Facebook page or contact them at (02) 8524 7671.
Pet-friendly? No
Nihonbashitei
Address: Pedro Gil St. Malate, Manila
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.
Nihonbashitei, in the heart of Manila, embodies everything an izakaya should be: laid-back, inviting, and offers comforting food and drinks that keep flowing. It’s the kind of place where weary souls come to escape the hustle, take a moment to pause, and savor life’s simple pleasures, which in Nihonbashitei, comes in the form of authentic Japanese dishes and drinks.
Contact details: For more details, contact them at (02) 8708 2807.
Pet-friendly? No
Doon Thai and Fusion Restaurant
Address: 936 Dolores St. Malate, Manila
Operating Hours: Daily, 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Treat yourself to the rich and bold flavors of Thai cuisine at this gem of a restaurant in Malate. Head over to Doon Thai and Fusion Restaurant and treat your taste buds to the beloved favorites on the menu: Som Tum Clear Soup, Pad Prik, Pad Thai Chicken with Thai Spring Rolls, Mango Sticky Rice, and Thai Milk Tea. This Manila branch has been serving authentic Thai dishes since 2017.
Contact details: For more details, visit their Facebook page or contact them at 09173278424.
Pet-friendly? Yes, pets are allowed in their alfresco dining area.
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