Beyond Makati’s gleaming skyscrapers lies a hidden gem: Chino Roces Avenue. This unassuming street is a secret haven for food lovers, offering a diverse culinary landscape that surprises and delights.
Affordable Eats: Savoring Simplicity
Chino Roces Avenue has many options for those seeking delicious and affordable meals.
Street Food Paradise
Experience the heart of Filipino street food culture on Chino Roces Avenue. Indulge in local favorites like Dinakdakan and Lechon Pares from Mamita Glenda, available at various locations on the street, including in front of Oriental Place, near Makati Central Square, and UPark Chino Roces Ave., Makati City. The restaurant is open Monday to Saturday, 8 PM onwards.
Coffee Shops and Bakeries
Fuel up with a cup of aromatic coffee or satisfy your sweet cravings with delectable pastries and cakes at the coffee shops and bakeries lining the street.
1. Coffee Project
A cozy coffee shop in Laureano Di Trevi condo along Chino Roces, Coffee Project offers a relaxing atmosphere with Instagram-worthy interiors. Known for its premium coffee blends and delicious pastries, it’s perfect for work meetings or casual catch-ups.
2. Archduke Coffee
A hidden gem at King’s Court Building in Chino Roces, Archduke Coffee specializes in artisanal brews and light snacks. Its minimalist design and quiet ambiance make it a favorite spot for remote workers and coffee enthusiasts.
3. By Sonja
Located conveniently at the YMC Building along Chino Roces, By Sonja is renowned for its delectable cupcakes and specialty cakes. Pair their signature sweet treats with a cup of coffee for an indulgent midday break.
4. Three Squares Café + Bar
Offering an eclectic mix of coffee, comfort food, and cocktails, Three Squares Café + Bar is a versatile hangout spot at The Alley at Karrivin Plaza, near offices in Chino Roces. It’s ideal for quick coffee breaks during the day and unwinding after work hours.
5. Brioso Coffee
A go-to coffee destination within The Beacon Makati in Chino Roces, Brioso Coffee prides itself on its robust brews and hearty sandwiches. The café’s inviting vibe makes it a favorite among young professionals.
6. Bad Cafe
This chic café in Windsor Tower in Brgy San Lorenzo near Chino Roces office hubs is known for its experimental coffee blends and sleek interiors. Bad Cafe also serves gourmet snacks and desserts, offering a modern twist on the classic coffee experience.
7. Pao Café
A quaint coffee shop in the AGS Building on Yakal Street near Chino Roces, Pao Café offers freshly brewed coffee and comfort food. It’s the perfect spot for an afternoon pick-me-up or a casual meeting with colleagues.
These spots not only provide quality coffee and snacks but are conveniently located near the dynamic office and commercial district of Chino Roces Avenue, making them ideal for busy professionals.
Mid-Range Dining: A Global Gastronomic Journey
Chino Roces Avenue is a melting pot of cultures, offering a diverse range of international cuisines.
Italian Delights
Amici di Don Bosco is a beloved Italian restaurant near office space on Arnaiz Avenue near Chino Roces, offering a true Italian dining experience. Known for its authentic flavors and warm, family-friendly atmosphere, it serves signature wood-fired pizzas, creamy pasta like Carbonara and Lasagna, and delightful gelato and desserts. Conveniently located in the heart of Makati, it’s the perfect spot for business lunches, casual dinners, or special celebrations, making it a favorite among Italian food lovers in the area.
Japanese Cuisine
Experience the artistry of Japanese cuisine, with fresh sushi, savory ramen, and other delectable dishes.
1. Makati Central Square, Legaspi Village
Japanese dining at Makati Central Square offers a diverse selection of authentic dishes. Kenshin Japanese Izakaya Restaurant serves casual Japanese comfort food, including sushi, ramen, and izakaya-style small plates. Sakura Yakiniku specializes in premium grilled meats, offering diners a true yakiniku experience. Akitaya Japanese Restaurant delivers traditional Japanese meals with a focus on home-style cooking, while Manmaru Izakaya provides a lively ambiance with an extensive selection of sake and delicious izakaya favorites. Meanwhile, Yakiniku Kenshin Japanese Restaurant is a go-to for high-quality grilled meats and flavorful side dishes.
2. Little Tokyo
Known as a haven for Japanese food lovers, Little Tokyo is home to authentic culinary delights. Misaki Bistro offers a refined menu blending classic Japanese flavors with a modern twist. Izakaya Kikufuji is a crowd favorite, known for its fresh sashimi, grilled skewers, and bustling izakaya ambiance, perfect for group dining and after-work gatherings.
3. Creekside Building
At Creekside Building, Isaribi Restaurant is a hidden gem offering authentic Japanese dishes in a quiet, cozy setting. Known for its fresh sashimi, sushi, and other traditional fare, Isaribi is ideal for those seeking a laid-back dining experience.
Each location along Chino Roces Avenue brings its unique take on Japanese cuisine, ensuring a delightful experience for lovers of sushi, ramen, and grilled specialties.
Korean Comfort Food
1. Washington and Taylo Streets
The outskirts of Washington and Taylo Streets are home to hidden gems like Daon Korean Food House and Bek’s Unlimited Samgyupsal Food House, where diners can enjoy authentic Korean dishes. Daon specializes in hearty comfort food like bibimbap and kimchi jjigae, while Bek’s is a favorite for its unlimited samgyeopsal, perfect for casual group dining.
2. Marvin Plaza Building
At Marvin Plaza Building, Samgyupal Korean BBQ offers a lively dining experience with a wide selection of marinated and fresh meats for grilling, accompanied by an array of flavorful side dishes like kimchi, japchae, and pajeon.
3. Eton West End Square
Meanwhile, Muhan Samgyupsal, located at Eton West End Square, takes unlimited Korean BBQ to the next level with a variety of cuts and marinades, all served with a traditional array of banchan (side dishes).
These spots near Chino Roces Avenue are perfect for those craving the warmth and bold flavors of Korean comfort food, ideal for sharing with family and friends.
Thai Food
Savor the vibrant flavors of Thailand, with spicy curries, fragrant noodle soups, and refreshing salads.
1. Beacon Tower Branch
At 101 Hawker Food House in Beacon Tower, diners can enjoy a variety of authentic Thai street food dishes. Known for its quick service and affordable prices, the restaurant offers staples like Pad Thai, Tom Yum soup, and savory curries.
2. Makati Square
At Makati Square, Sen Lek Thai Noodle Food specializes in fragrant noodle soups and stir-fried dishes. Their bold flavors and generous portions make it a favorite for those seeking a comforting Thai meal.
3. SMDC Air in Yakal Street
Hom Thai brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand with dishes like Green Curry, Papaya Salad, and savory grilled meats. Its cozy ambiance located at SMDC Air makes it an inviting spot for casual dining.
4. The Gallery
At Thai BBQ (Mookata), diners can enjoy the unique experience of Thai-style barbecue paired with flavorful dipping sauces and fresh ingredients, making it ideal for group meals.
5. AGS Plaza
Thai Mookata offers an authentic mookata experience, blending Thai BBQ and hotpot. With a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables to grill and cook, it’s a must-visit for fans of interactive dining.
6. The Linear Makati Tower 1
Siam Square Mookata near Linear Makati serves traditional Thai barbecue with an array of marinated meats and spicy dipping sauces. It’s popular for its lively setting and flavorful dishes.
7. Malugay Street
3cats Mookata provides a laid-back mookata dining experience, combining grilling and hotpot for an authentic Thai feast. Their fresh ingredients and rich broths are a hit among locals.
These Thai food spots near Chino Roces Avenue capture the bold, vibrant flavors of Thailand, offering everything from spicy noodle soups to interactive mookata BBQ experiences.
Fine Dining: A Culinary Extravaganza
For those seeking an unforgettable dining experience, Chino Roces Avenue offers a selection of upscale restaurants.
Romantic Dinners
Create lasting memories at these intimate restaurants, with elegant ambiance, candlelit tables, and attentive service.
1. Marvin Plaza
Wagyu Manila Makati offers a luxurious dining experience focused on premium Wagyu beef. With its refined ambiance and exceptional service, it’s an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or special celebration, where guests can indulge in melt-in-your-mouth steaks and expertly crafted sides.
2. Greenbelt Hamilton, Legaspi Street
Tandem Restaurant at Greenbelt Hamilton blends modern European cuisine with Filipino flavors in an intimate setting. Known for its tasting menus and personalized service, it provides the perfect atmosphere for a romantic evening, complete with candlelit tables and an elegant vibe.
3. The 107 Hub, Legaspi Village
Somm’s Table offers a curated fine dining experience with an extensive wine selection, pairing each dish with the perfect wine. Its sophisticated ambiance and attention to detail make it a wonderful choice for those seeking an unforgettable and romantic dining experience.
4. Erlag Building, Legaspi Village
At Erlag Building, Txoko – Asador Restaurante brings the flavors of Spain and the Basque region to Makati, specializing in grilled meats and seafood. The elegant and intimate atmosphere makes it ideal for a romantic dinner, with a menu that highlights the best of Spanish culinary traditions.
These fine dining and romantic restaurants near Chino Roces Avenue provide exceptional dining experiences, perfect for those seeking memorable meals in elegant, candlelit settings with impeccable service.
Practical Tips for a Memorable Dining Experience
How to Get There
- Public Transportation: Utilize the MRT or bus to reach Chino Roces Avenue.
- Private Vehicle: Plan your route and consider parking options.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak Hours: Be prepared for crowds and longer wait times during peak dining hours.
- Off-Peak Hours: Enjoy a more relaxed dining experience during off-peak times.
Budget Planning
- Affordable Eats: Set a budget for casual dining and street food.
- Mid-Range Dining: Allocate a higher budget for restaurants offering international and fusion cuisine.
- Fine Dining: Prepare to splurge on upscale dining experiences.
Chino Roces Avenue is a culinary destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a budget-conscious foodie or a discerning epicurean, you’re sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings. So, the next time you’re in Makati, be sure to explore the vibrant food scene of Chino Roces Avenue and embark on a culinary adventure.
