Settling on a date for your long-awaited reunion is one thing, but it's another to decide on the perfect venue. While having potluck at home is always a good idea, you might want to consider a change of scenery by heading out and dining at a fancy restaurant. Just imagine it: The ambiance is aces, the music is fabulous, and the food is top-notch. Unlike potluck celebrations, dining out means you won't even have to think of meal prep and decor. It's simply a matter of choosing which cuisine your group is in the mood for—and hopefully, you won't butt heads over that as well.
Here are some options to consider:
1. Wildflour Italian
Everyone's favorite cafe is all grown up in the form of Wildflour Italian, a cozy upscale restaurant that offers—you guessed it—quality Italian food. Enjoy great wine, pasta, and woodfire pizza, in a dimly lit ambiance with fine music. You can even book a table in the private room if you wish.
The Finance Centre, 9th Avenue corner 26th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig; (+63) 917-632-9384
2. Las Flores
With its high ceiling, well-lit interiors, and plush seating, Las Flores provides the perfect setting for all your holiday reunions and it hits the sweet spot between fancy and casual dining. Eat your way throughout all the catching up with paella negra, gambas al ajillo, and beef tenderloin, and sip on sangria while you're at it.
The Podium, ADB Avenue, Ortigas, Mandaluyong; (+63) 915-654-5231
3. Salvatore Cuomo & Bar
This classic restaurant along Uptown Parade has won the hearts of many since it opened in 2016, and it's not hard to see why. It's a premium, casual dining resto that offers an array of choice dishes to complete your meal—they even have yakitori skewers if you're up for something different.
Uptown Parade, 9th Avenue Corner 38th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig; 7-946-3072
4. La Picara
Another Spanish restaurant that will surely please is La Picara, and it's perfect for when you want the cocktails to be the main attraction of the night. The Instagrammable tropical paradise offers a bevy of alcoholic beverages that come at a buy-one-get-one promo if you make it to Happy Hour. With a name that translates to "being naughty or playful," you can bet you'll be having so much fun.
One Bonifacio High Street Mall, 28th Street Corner 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig; (+63) 927-172-4480
5. 1950 Restaurant
What was once an ancestral home is now a modern Filipino restaurant thanks to Cyma's Robby Goco and Akulturado Vancouver's Chester Villas. The preserved structure of the home, along with some of the original furniture, will make your much-needed reunion feel extra homey. Reminisce the good old days over Sinigang na Lechon, Adobo Classics, and Lobster Bisque.
14 Castilla Street, Near One Castilla Place, Valencia, Quezon City; (+63) 917-816-2599
6. Samba
If you haven't visited this festive restaurant sitting high up in Shangri-La at the Fort, then by all means book a reservation at Samba, a casual dining restaurant that offers delicious Peruvian food. From the refreshing ceviche to heaty meals such as Pastel del Choclo (Peruvian corn pie), there's something here for everyone and you can even dine al fresco to elevate your experience. And yes, there are cocktails.
Shangri-La at the Fort, 30th Street Corner 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig; 8-200-888
7. Gallery by Chele
Formerly Gallery VASK, this restaurant evolved into what is now known as Gallery by Chele under the care of Chef Chele Gonzalez. What was previously a high-end restaurant warmed up into something more relaxed yet still highly sophisticated. If your group is looking to try unique dishes that highlight local flavors, then this resto is a must-visit. Plus, the golden lighting and lively ambiance make the perfect backdrop for all your photos.
Clipp Center, 11th Avenue Corner 39th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig; 7-218-3895
8. Osteria Daniele
Osteria Daniele is a fabulous, high-end restaurant that serves Italian fare. Its exteriors are designed to look like a European bistro, while the interiors are inspired by art deco. At par with the luxe ambiance is the food that will satisfy even the most discerning gourmand in your group.
High Street Corporate Plaza, 9th Avenue Corner 26th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig; 0915-874-5792
9. Lemuria Restaurant & Wine Bar
If you're looking to elevate your typical restaurant food crawls, then look no further than Lemuria, a simple yet sophisticated joint that serves French and Mediterranean cuisine. You could opt to dine al fresco, have drinks by the bar, or have your meal at the restaurant's loft. Indulge and order a glass (or more) of some of their finest wines.
The Plaza at Arya Residences, McKinley Parkway, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig; 0947-875-3142
10. Blackbird
A crowd-favorite known for its art deco, black-and-white interiors, Blackbird is the prime location for any and every kind of get-together, be it with family, friends, or that special someone. If your group can't seem to agree on a specific cuisine, Blackbird is a safe bet because of its hearty comfort food selection that includes pasta, pizza, and steak. There are plenty of dining areas to choose from as well.
Nielson Tower, Ayala Triangle Gardens, Salcedo Village, Makati; 8-828-4888
11. China Blue
Take your Chinese food consumption (or obsession) to the next level by dining at China Blue, Conrad Manila's take on modern Chinese cuisine. It's perfect for larger groups that still want to keep things fancy (and Instagrammable) through lavish interiors and a relaxing ambiance. You also get wonderful views of the Manila Bay.
Conrad Manila, Seaside Boulevard Corner Coral Way, Mall of Asia Complex (MOA), Pasay; 8-833-9999
12. The Frazzled Cook
If your group isn't very high-maintenance, then opt for something upscale yet very homey. The Frazzled Cook is your best bet with its cozy, wooden interiors that are given an eclectic antique touch.
78 Scout Gandia Street, Laging Handa, Quezon City; 8-246-9069
13. Romulo Cafe
Another place that's equal parts comfort food and high-end fare is Romulo Cafe that also boasts of sleek, modern interiors reminiscent of a family home. It's array of Filipino food (with a special twist!) is perfect for groups that don't want to rack their brains when choosing an item from the menu.
148 Jupiter Corner Comet Street, Bel-Air, Makati City; 8-822-0286
14. Nobu Manila
For groups who are obsessed with Japanese cuisine but are looking for a more upscale experience, head to Nobu Manila to finally satiate yourselves. Not only is the food exquisite, but the interior design is, too—enjoy luxurious enclaves or al fresco seatings while you munch on sushi and sashimi. Tip: They've got a brunch buffet from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
North Tower, Nobu Hotel, City of Dreams Manila, Aseana Boulevard Corner Macapagal Avenue, Entertainment City, Parañaque; 8-246-9069
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