Valentine's Day is fast approaching, and the question of where to celebrate the day of hearts remains. With so many options, you’re probably still thinking whether you should spend your bucks in a fine dining restaurant, or go on a lazy date in your favorite hangout place. While there’s a good number of restaurants in the metro that can cater to your appetite, we totally recommend that you veer away from the crowds and dine somewhere quaint and tranquil for an ultra-romantic feel.
Not quite sure where to go? Below, we’ve listed five of the most romantic garden restaurants that you can book for the perfect Valentine’s date.
Where to Book Romantic Garden Restaurants for Valentine's Day:
1. Basil
Behind two, big wooden doors lies a secret garden restaurant that used to be a garden supply store. Refurbished to match the modernity of its new architecture, Basil in White Plains is a go-to for food junkies with a knack for authentic and traditional Thai cuisine. The hidden abode boasts of big windows and grand chandeliers, and you will be welcomed by the serene sound of water from the nearby koi pond, evoking a strong sense of nature. Here, everything is made from scratch using ingredients directly sourced from Thailand, and you and your partner will be surrounded with visuals of greenery as you enjoy your quiet dining experience.
Must-tries: Pad Thai (P360), Tom Yum Soup (P375), and Mango Sticky Rice (P130)
Basil is located at White Plains corner Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City.
2. Rustic Mornings by Isabelo
Founded by Portia Dee-Baluyut, Rustic Mornings by Isabelo is a product of three generations of talent and deep appreciation for food and art. The well-loved garden restaurant is every morning person’s dream, as it specializes in heartwarming brunch meals and all-day breakfast options. True to its name, every corner of this hidden gem elicits a rustic, countryside feel, thanks to its adornment of vintage trinkets and well-curated, artsy interiors. The gazebo area is designed to let you and your partner enjoy an intimate dining experience, making it perfect for a cozy Valentine’s date.
Must-tries: Beef Tapa (P290), Ilocos Bagnet (P340), and French Toast Tower with Grilled Peaches (P320)
Rustic Mornings by Isabelo is located at 11 Isabelo Mendoza Street, San Roque, Marikina City.
3, Sonya’s Garden
If you and your partner are up for a long drive for a quick trip down south, don’t miss out on Sonya’s Garden, located in the quiet municipality of Alfonso, Cavite. Its story began in 1998 when Sonya Garcia opened her private garden to the public and transformed a whole compound into a bed and breakfast establishment with various amenities. Fast-forward to two decades later, Sonya’s Garden is now a popular dining destination that doubles as an intimate sanctuary where couples get engaged and tie the knot. The restaurant uses freshly-sourced produce from the garden itself, and guests have the option to go big on the buffet or take it slow, à la carte style.
Must-tries: Kare-kare (P950), Fresh Lumpia (P320), and Adobong Pusit (P750)
Sonya’s Garden is located at Barangay Buck Estate, Alfonso Municipality, Cavite.
4. Gubat
At first glance, it’s not difficult to fall in love with this no-fuss garden restaurant situated next to Diliman Bonsai Society. It offers a familiar Filipino concept that will take you and your partner to a trip down memory lane, starting with affordable and comforting Filipino dishes that you surely grew up with and loved. The restaurant, situated right smack in the middle of lush greenery, practices zero-waste, and food will be served on clean banana leaves for an authentic, local dining experience. Take note though that they don’t provide utensils, straws, or table napkins, so make sure you’re ready to get your hands dirty as you go on a kamayan spree with your SO.
Must-tries: Lechon Kawali (P180), Tapa (P145), and Adobong Baboy (P145)
Gubat is located at Diliman Bonsai Society, C.P. Garcia Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City.
5. Greg & Sally Tree Garden Café
Couples who are longing for a downtime from the busy city life need not to travel in a far-off destination, thanks to Greg & Sally Tree Garden Café. Nestled in a residential area in the heart of Marikina, this wide-sprawling garden cafe has a swing area, a canopy bed, and a spacious dining area where couples can enjoy a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere. Ample servings of herb-infused dishes will tickle your tastebuds, and you’ll find yourself in awe with their courteous staff and ever-welcoming owners.
Must-tries: Peppered Pork Steak with Sally’s Garden Salad (P250), Sinigang, and Fried Cheeseballs (P125), and Honey Glazed Chicken Platter (P400)
Greg & Sally’s Tree Garden Café is located at 145 Ipil cor. Champaca Street, Marikina Heights, Marikina City.
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