Outdoor dining in Metro Manila has always been a treat, but this year it’s an even bigger part of the social scene. With the ongoing pandemic, the best spot for a meal out with pals or a date night is somewhere open with ample space for social distancing. Luckily, there’s a growing number of restaurants offering al fresco dining in the metro. And if you’re eating outside, it might as well be somewhere pretty, right? When you’re eating out, just don’t forget to pack your pandemic essentials, like your face mask, face shield, and hand sanitizer!
Dig into our favorite Instagram-worthy al fresco restaurants in Metro Manila perfect for your next socially distant night out.
Rustic Mornings by Isabelo (Marikina)
Long before the pandemic, Rustic Mornings by Isabelo has already been earning rave reviews for its lovely secret garden vibes and sumptuous all-day breakfast dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for Pinoy classics like tapa and longganisa, pancakes and waffles, or just a cup of good coffee, this Marikina garden restaurant has it all.
Address: 11 Isabelo Mendoza St., San Roque, Marikina
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM; Saturday and Sunday, 8 AM to 9 PM
Contact: +63 917 7005810
Website: https://www.rusticmornings.com, Facebook, Instagram
Ninyo Fusion Cuisine & Wine Lounge (Quezon City)
One of the best-kept secrets in Metro Manila is Ninyo Fusion Cuisine & Wine Lounge in Katipunan. With private rose-strewn gazebos, tranquil koi ponds, and romantic lighting, the fine-dining restaurant is a picturesque haven ideal for a special occasion. Plus, the creative fusion of European and Asian cuisine is top-notch, especially paired with one of the world’s 100 great wines available. Reservations are required.
Address: 66 Esteban Abada St., Quezon City
Opening Hours: Daily, 11 AM to 9 PM
Contact: +63 939 9215881
Website: Facebook, Instagram
The Frazzled Cook (Quezon City)
With The Frazzled Cook’s vibrant and eclectic décor, it’s easy to be charmed by this popular Italian bistro at Tomas Morato. This creativity extends to the restaurant’s al fresco area that’s bright, airy, and surrounded by lush greens. Make your reservations on the website and sample The Frazzled Cook’s best-selling comfort food like the five-day marinated Sizzling Squid, the ultra-tender Wagyu Salpicao, and the mouthwatering Truffle Pasta.
Address: 78 Scout Gandia St., Diliman, Quezon City
Opening Hours: Daily, 10 AM to 9 PM
Contact: +63 917 6333352
Website: https://www.thefrazzledcook.net, Facebook, Instagram
Shaka Café (Taguig)
Making its way from Siargao to Manila, the newly opened Shaka Café in Burgos Center is the perfect spot in the metro to get your yummy and healthy fix of smoothie bowls and other plant-based dishes. Even meat-eating diners are bound to enjoy the café’s colorful bowls of fresh fruits, homemade granola, and superfoods. Coffee, vegan burgers, sandwiches, and entrées are also served. A laidback al fresco area is ideal for diners who prefer the open air.
Address: Burgos Circle, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 6 AM to 10 PM; Friday and Saturday, 6 AM to 11 PM
Contact: +63 968 7500779
Website: https://www.shakacafes.com, Facebook, Instagram
205 (Taguig)
If you’re seeking an elegant outdoor venue for your nightcap with the crew, you can’t go wrong with 205. The lounge’s al fresco area in BGC reflects the low-key yet sophisticated atmosphere of its interiors. Premium cocktails, coffee, and comfort food are available—the perfect combination, whether you’re here for brunch or late at night.
Address: C2 Upper Ground, High Street Central, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 11 AM to 12 AM; Sunday and Monday, 11 AM to 11 PM
Contact: +63 917 8581942
Website: Facebook, Instagram
Blackbird at the Nielson Tower (Makati)
For an outdoor fine-dining experience, head to Blackbird at the historic Nielson Tower. Inspired by the building’s significant place in aviation history, the restaurant serves an innovative mix of global classic cuisine and contemporary Asian fare. At night, the covered terrace and open wooden deck are an especially stunning spot for dinner and drinks.
Address: Nielson Tower, Makati Ave., Makati
Opening Hours: Daily, 11 AM to 10 PM
Contact: +632 8828 4888, +632 8828 1937, +63 917 8892782
Website: https://www.blackbird.com.ph, Facebook, Instagram
Ikomai (Makati)
Tucked away from the bustle of the CBD, Ikomai is a neighborhood favorite in Salcedo Village that’s easy to love. The restaurant is known for serving gourmet Japanese food in a laidback space to bond with friends. Diners can opt to enjoy their meals al fresco in the intimate garden area at the back, a plant-filled space where you can almost pretend things are back to normal in the metro.
Address: 332 H.V. Dela Costa, Makati
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11 AM to 9 PM
Contact: +63 917 7094809
Website: https://ikomai.today, Facebook, Instagram
The Loggia by Margarita Forés (Parañaque)
Enjoy a unique dining experience at The Loggia, a new al fresco dining spot by renowned chef Margarita Forés. Here, families and friends can enjoy sunny days and fresh air while savoring the refined Italian, Spanish, and Filipino dishes by Forés. The restaurant is located on the grounds of Palacio de Memoria, a meticulously restored seven-level mansion that transports visitors to the romantic, elegant world of Old Manila.
Address: 95 Roxas Boulevard, Parañaque
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11 AM to 9 PM
Contact: +63 917 7113714, +63 917 7179654
Website: https://www.palaciodememoria.com/venues/the-loggia-restaurant, Facebook
La Cathedral Café (Manila)
Another place where Manilenos can escape the chaos of the city is La Cathedral Café in Intramuros. The restaurant offers an open-air dining area where guests can gaze at the historic Manila Cathedral while dining under capiz lanterns and the starlit sky. Hearty entrées, pastries, and coffee are available. Reservations are recommended.
Address: 398 Cabildo St., Intramuros, Manila
Opening Hours: Daily, 8 AM to 9 PM
Contact: +63 915 1633994
Website: Facebook, Instagram
Sofitel’s Food Truck at Sunset Bar (Pasay)
Missing dining at Sofitel? The Food Truck at Sunset Bar may be different from their famous buffet, but it’s an experience that’s just as unforgettable with amazing food and a sweeping view of sunsets over Manila Bay. The al fresco spot serves mouthwatering food truck favorites from Sunset Bar, including burgers, tacos, and even grilled fare like pork ribs and smoked salmon. Book a reservation online.
Address: CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay
Opening Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 6 PM to 9:30 PM
Website: https://www.sofitelmanila.com/offers/food-truck-festival-at-sunset-bar, Facebook
Just because we’re still fighting a pandemic doesn’t mean you have to be stuck indoors 24/7. As long as you have your face masks, face shields, and other requirements, there’s no problem about stepping out for a meal or some drinks. Visit KKday for dining deals and ideas.
*Featured image via Rustic Mornings by Isabelo, The Frazzled Cook, The Loggia at Palacio de Memoria by Margarita Forés, and Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila Facebook pages
