GUIDE: Restaurants and Cafés at NAIA Terminal 3's New Mezzanine Food Hall

(SPOT.ph) If you’re one of those people who show up at the airport 3+ hours early—and honestly, can you ever be "too early" in the chaos that is Philippine travel?—you’ve probably spent a good chunk of that waiting time wandering between food stalls in search of something to eat or drink while waiting for your flight updates. Well, good news: the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 just unveiled its revamped Mezzanine Food Hall, and it’s looking fresher than ever.

Located on the second floor, the new Mezzanine Food Hall has been given a sleek, premium glow-up. The space is brighter, and it feels like a place you actually wouldn't mind spending time in while waiting to check in. Especially now that the fancy food court has a solid lineup of dining spots.

Also read: Dedicated OFW Wing Opens at NAIA Terminal 3

What it's known for: Angel’s Pizza is a well-loved local chain known for its thick, cheesy pizzas, generous servings, and their sulit BOGO deals. Bestsellers include the Creamy Spinach Dip Pizza and the Angel’s Double Cheesy Melt.

What it's known for: Banapple is a local restaurant known for its desserts and pastries, specifically the Bannoffee Pie and Blueberry Cheesecake. But that doesn't mean you should skip their savory, hot plates. One can't go wrong with the Hickory Smoked Barbecued Country Ribs and Chicken Parmigiano.

What it's known for: BreadTalk is where you “accidentally” walk in just because their freshly-baked breads smell sooo good. Their Pork Floss Buns are their bestsellers, but don’t skip the sweet rolls and cream-filled pastries—they’re soft, addictive, and make for a good snack while on the plane.

What it's known for: If you're craving something hefty with bold Tex-Mex flavors, head on over to Chili’s for their saucy, tender Baby Back Ribs and crunchy Chicken Crispers. If they do serve their famous unlimited margaritas, just make sure you don't get too intoxicated that you completely forget about your flight—or, worse (based on a true story), be wheelchaired by security.

What it's known for: Chowking is a fast food chain known for its budget-friendly Chinese bites—from the Chow Fan, Chinese-Style Fried Chicken, and Siopao. If airport chaos is making your blood boil, grab a serving of their famous Halo-Halo to literally cool down.

What it's known for: Estrel's will always be a top-of-mind mention when discussing the best caramel chiffon cakes in Metro Manila. You can drop by for a slice, or buy a box as pasalubong for someone who’ll be away (from the Philippines) for a while.

What it's known for: J.CO Donuts & Coffee just leveled up as it officially unveiled a more premium concept with J.CO Reserve. Here, most of what's on the menu aren't available in your regular J.CO branches. One can expect brews made through more refined and theatrical methods like syphon and pour-over, but beyond the caffeine, J.CO’s new concept also serves up hot plates—from the comforting Mushroom Soup to the indulgent Wagyu Steak Al Ajillo. Of course, the Reserve also has new premium donut flavors like Granola Malaka, Mocha Nougat, Speculoos Pistachio, Marshmallow, Hazelnut Caviar, and Choco Oreo.

What it's known for: Kenny Rogers is best known for its Roasted Chicken—best generously slathered with their pepper gravy. This is paired with rice, and a serving of their delicious side, the Mac and Cheese. When it comes to dessert, one can't go wrong with one or half a dozen Corn Muffins.

What it's known for: KFC is best known for its "finger lickin' good" fried chicken, which we all know boasts using 11 secret herbs and spices. Other crowd-favorites from the menu include the Zinger burgers, Famous Bowls, and their budget-friendly meal sets.

What it's known for: LA Chicks specializes in flavorful fried chicken with a range of sauces from sweet to spicy. Their rice meals and sandwiches make it an easy choice for quick, satisfying comfort food.

What it's known for: Mama Lou’s serves comforting Italian dishes, like the Truffle Pasta, Spinach and Goat Cheese Pizza, and the signature Ricotta Meatballs.

What it's known for: Mary Grace Cafe is best known for its ensaymadas, cheese rolls, and other baked treats. But beyond the sweets that made them into a household name, the cafe-restaurant also serves great home-style dishes.

What it's known for: Marugame Udon is known for its freshly made udon noodles and crunchy tempura served cafeteria-style (turo-turo, if you will). Their Beef Ontama Udon and Chicken Paitan Udon are consistent bestsellers, with a wide range of customizable toppings.

What it's known for: Modern Shanghai offers classic Chinese comfort food/ The recommended Modern Shanghai dishes include the signature Xiao Long Bao and Steamed "Hakaw" Shrimp Dumplings for dim sum freaks and fiends, but for something meatier, go for the Wok-Fried Beef with Broccoli or Deep-Fried Squid with Spicy Salt and Pepper.

What it's known for: Nanyang is a restaurant chain that gives a traditional Singaporean "kopi tiam" (coffee shop) experience—that is best paired with Kaya Toast, of course. Other bestsellers include the Hainanese Chicken Rice, Prawn Laksa, Cheesy Chicken Chop Noodle, and Curry Chicken with Rice.

What it's known for: Paris Baguette blends French-style baking with café favorites. Their must-tries include the Strawberry Soft Cream Cake and a variety of buttery, flaky pastries that you can bite in between sips of their coffee.

What it's known for: Pancake House is a local comfort-food staple known for its fluffy pancakes. On the savory side, you can't go wrong with the restaurant's Classic Pan Fried Chicken, Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, and the Best Taco in Town.

What it's known for: Popeyes is known for its Louisiana-style fried chicken with a crispy, flavorful coating. Their Chicken Sandwich, Cajun Fries, and Biscuits have also earned a loyal following.

What it's known for: You know the famous silvanas from Dumaguete City? You can get their silvanas and sans rival when they open their store at the airport's Mezzanine Food Hall.

What it's known for: Need something to keep you awake—and alert for your flight? Seattle’s Best Coffee serves brews, like their famous Javakula. They also have a really great all-day breakfast menu, just in case you forgot to eat "the most important meal of the day" because you were rushing to the airport.

This new food court houses different Filipino food brands like Via Mare, Aristocrats, Lechon Diva, Purefoods, Magnolia, Bebang Halo-Halo, Fruitas, Bo's Coffee, and more.

What it's known for: UCC offers premium Japanese-style coffee and hot meals. Their bestselling Sumiyaki Coffee, fluffy pancakes, and Japanese curry rice make it a go-to spot for both coffee lovers and brunch regulars.

What it's known for: Watami offers modern Japanese dining with sushi, rice bowls, hotpots, and grilled dishes. Popular choices include the Salmon Belly Aburi Roll and yakitori skewers.