Legaspi Village, a part of Barangay San Lorenzo in Makati City, is a vibrant neighborhood renowned for its upscale lifestyle and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Bounded by V.A. Rufino, Dela Rosa, Antonio Arnaiz, Paseo de Roxas, Ayala, and Chino Roces Avenues, this approximately 12.79-hectare or 31.64-acre district is home to numerous expatriates and foreign diplomatic missions. Its strategic location within the Makati Central Business District, accessible via Ayala Triangle Road, makes it a sought-after residential and commercial area.
Legaspi Village: A Culinary Playground
Legaspi Village isn’t just a business district; it’s also a foodie’s paradise. This vibrant neighborhood in Makati City offers a diverse culinary landscape; from the refined elegance of high-end restaurants to the casual charm of street food, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure as we explore the best eats in Legaspi Village, from the newest hotspots to beloved local favorites. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a delicious meal, this guide will be your compass to the neighborhood’s culinary treasures.
Via Ayala Avenue and Dela Rosa Street
Here are some of the latest additions to the neighborhood’s culinary landscape:
1. Osaka Tonkatsu Kawachi
Osaka Tonkatsu Kawachi, a beloved Japanese eatery nestled along Ayala Avenue in Legaspi Village, Makati, has garnered a reputation for its exceptional tonkatsu. Specializing in this crispy pork cutlet, the restaurant has become a destination for locals and visitors seeking authentic Japanese cuisine. Beyond its signature dish, Kawachi also offers a diverse menu featuring ramen and sushi, catering to a broader range of palates.
The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere, coupled with its convenient location in the heart of Makati, has contributed to its popularity. With a 4.1-star rating on Google Maps and consistent positive reviews, Osaka Tonkatsu Kawachi is a must-visit for anyone craving a taste of Japan in the bustling metropolis.
2. Galo
Galo, a Portuguese-inspired restaurant along Dela Rosa Access Road 2 in Legaspi Village, Makati City, offers a unique culinary experience of Portuguese flavors for our local Filipino palate. Their menu showcases a selection of dishes, from traditional Portuguese appetizers such as patatas bravas and bacon chips to Filipino breakfast favorites like beef tapa and crispy chicken.
For the main course, patrons can indulge in grilled chicken, succulent pork belly, or hearty pork skillet and chops. Galo’s inviting atmosphere and distinctive menu have made it a popular choice for those seeking a taste of Portugal in the heart of Metro Manila.
3. Bersi’s at The Pantree
Bersi’s is your go-to spot for authentic Middle Eastern flavors at The Pantree in Legaspi Village. Located at the JCSO Building on the corner of Dela Rosa and Castro Streets, this Manila-based kitchen tantalizes taste buds with a delectable array of shawarmas, kebabs, and falafel.
From tender beef and succulent lamb to juicy chicken, Bersi’s offers a variety of protein options to satisfy every craving. Complement your meal with their creamy hummus for a truly authentic experience. Open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Bersi’s is your mid-day and after-work Middle Eastern escape.
4. Tatatito
Tatatito offers a contemporary take on traditional Filipino fare. This restaurant on the ground floor of the OPL Building, 100 Don Carlos Palanca, Legaspi Village, showcases a menu of elevated comfort food, featuring classic appetizers like sinigang na hipon and tokwa’t baboy.
For the main course, diners can indulge in dishes such as salmon in tamarind brown butter or prawn tomato bamboo rice. Tatatito’s selection of chicken, pork, and beef home favorites, as well as fresh seafood options, caters to a wide range of palates. To complete the dining experience, a variety of refreshing drinks and desserts, including beloved rice cakes and halo-halo, are available.
5. Komoro
Komoro offers an authentic Japanese dining experience and is renowned for its freshly prepared udon noodles, which are made daily on-site. Situated at 119 Dela Rosa Street, Legaspi Village, the restaurant presents a menu featuring a diverse selection of udon, donburi, bento sets, and a variety of side dishes.
Komoro’s dedication to quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods has solidified its reputation as a go-to destination for Japanese cuisine in the heart of Makati.
Via Don Carlos Palanca Street
6. Taiwan Kitchen
Taiwan Kitchen offers an authentic Taiwanese culinary experience at its OPL Building location on Dela Rosa Street in Legaspi Village. The restaurant’s menu showcases a selection of Taiwanese dishes, including the popular Louroufan (adobo rice), savory pork chop curry bento, and the indulgent triple-cheese chicken chop.
For a taste of Taiwan’s dumpling artistry, the shrimp and pork xiaolongbao are a must-try. Complementing the main courses are side dishes such as fried egg tofu, nuggets and fries, and the sweet treat of caramel egg tart. The restaurant’s sesame oil chicken soup provides a comforting and flavorful option.
7. Sicilian Roast by Giuseppe Genco
Transport yourself to the heart of Italy at Sicilian Roast by Giuseppe Genco, located on Carlos Palanca Street in Legaspi Village, Makati. This authentic Italian restaurant offers a delectable array of classic dishes. Indulge in their signature brick oven pizzas, such as the Quattro Formaggi or the classic Pepperoni. Savor the rich flavors of Spaghetti Bolognese, the timeless Margherita, or the delightful Fussili alla Coco with Gamberi and sundried pesto.
For meat lovers, the Bistecca Fiorentina is a must-try, complemented by exquisite cured meats like bresaola ham and pancetta arrotolata. Seafood enthusiasts will appreciate the pan-fried seabass. Pair your meal with a perfectly selected beer, cocktail, or wine to complete the Italian dining experience.
8. Gringo
Another restaurant along Carlos Palanca Street in Legaspi Village, Makati, is Gringo’s Chicken, Ribs, and Friends, which offers a contemporary dining experience. The menu highlights a selection of signature dishes, including crowd-pleasing favorites such as crispy catfish, pork belly with mango salsa, and lechon sisig.
For those seeking a convenient at-home culinary adventure, the restaurant provides ready-to-cook meal kits. A standout offering is their pot-stewed beef, a flavorful and comforting dish. To complement the savory selections, Gringo’s presents a delectable dessert menu featuring compadre chocolate, Cuban tiramisu, and mango de crema.
9. Mansion Sports Bar & Lounge
Mansion Sports Bar & Lounge is an upscale entertainment venue offering a multifaceted experience. As a premier destination for pre-dinner gatherings, after-work functions, and large-scale celebrations, it caters to a diverse clientele. The venue features three distinct concepts, ensuring a tailored experience for every guest.
From a dynamic bar scene offering an array of appetizers and international-inspired fare to a refined dining area serving elevated mains and desserts, Mansion Sports Bar & Lounge delivers flavor and atmosphere. Complementing the culinary offerings is an extensive beverage selection, creating the perfect setting for relaxation and socializing. Whether enjoying the lively bar scene or indulging in a sophisticated dining experience, Mansion Sports Bar & Lounge provides an unparalleled entertainment destination.
10. Amare La Cucina
Amare La Cucina is a culinary haven that celebrates the authentic flavors of Italy. Founded by Edmark Bustos in Baguio City and inspired by Neapolitan pizza, the restaurant has blossomed into a beloved destination for food enthusiasts. With a commitment to fresh, local ingredients, Amare La Cucina offers a diverse menu featuring antipasti, salads, entrees, pizzas, pasta, and decadent desserts.
Signature dishes like the Tre Formaggi pizza, wood-fired ribs, and Ultimate Cheesy Pasta have become customer favorites. The restaurant’s name, meaning “to love the kitchen” in Italian, encapsulates its passion for crafting exceptional dining experiences.
Via Castro Street
11. Ginza Gyu
Ginza Gyu is a contemporary take on the classic gyudon, elevating the humble dish to a luxurious experience. Founded by a group of friends with a shared passion for Japanese cuisine, the restaurant offers a range of premium beef cuts, including Wagyu, alongside pork and seafood options.
With a focus on quality ingredients and meticulous preparation, Ginza Gyu redefines the gyudon experience, offering generous portions and a visually appealing presentation. Conveniently located in Makati, the restaurant has quickly gained popularity among beef enthusiasts and those seeking elevated Japanese comfort food.
12. OMO Diner
OMO Diner is a contemporary dining establishment offering a fusion of Korean comfort food and international favorites. Located at the G/F of Cattleya Gardens Condominium in Legaspi Village, the restaurant presents a diverse menu featuring all-day breakfast options, Korean-inspired pizzas, and signature dishes such as Korean Double Fried Chicken. OMO Diner also caters to a broader palate with burgers and refreshing beverages, including soju cocktails and the popular Korean dessert, bingsu.
13. Cafe Dalisay
Cafe Dalisay is a charming new cafe at G7, Perla Mansion Condominium, 65 Castro, Legazpi Village Makati that perfectly embodies its name, meaning “pure, unadulterated, sincere, and refined.” With its cozy interior, complete with comfortable seating and ample power outlets, it’s the ideal spot to relax and enjoy a good cup of coffee.
Known for its pet-friendly environment, Cafe Dalisay has quickly become a local favorite. Signature drinks like the Iced Spanish Latte and Honey Lavender Latte have drawn a loyal following. This hidden gem offers excellent coffee and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit for coffee lovers in the area.
14. Kyo To
Kyo-To is a haven for discerning palates seeking the epitome of Japanese cuisine. Nestled in the heart of Legaspi Village, this elegant restaurant offers an immersive kaiseki experience. Helmed by Chef Ryohei Kawamoto, a Kyoto native, Kyo-To showcases the artistry of Japanese culinary traditions.
From the moment you step into its serene ambiance, you’re invited to savor a multi-course symphony of flavors, meticulously crafted using the finest seasonal ingredients. Indulge in exquisite dishes like the melt-in-your-mouth A5 Kagoshima Wagyu, the ocean-fresh scallop and uni sashimi, or the comforting saba somen. Kyo-To is more than just a restaurant; it’s a destination for those who appreciate the true essence of Japanese gastronomy.
15. The Curator Coffee & Cocktails
The Curator is a renowned establishment in Legazpi Village, Makati, celebrated for its exceptional coffee and craft cocktails. Starting as a small coffee shop within a wine shop, it evolved into a standalone bar with extended hours.
The Curator prides itself on its ever-changing menu, driven by the availability of fresh ingredients and the desire to provide customers with unique experiences. Beyond its impressive beverage offerings, the bar is known for its genuine customer service and strong community focus. Recognized internationally, The Curator has been included in Asia’s 50 Best Bars for four consecutive years, solidifying its status as a top-tier drinking destination.
By exploring the diverse culinary scene of Legaspi Village, you’re sure to discover new and exciting flavors. Whether you’re craving a fine dining experience or a casual street food adventure, this neighborhood has something to offer everyone.
More about Makati City
Read-worthy articles about Makati. Legaspi Village is a dynamic neighborhood that constantly evolves. Keep up with the latest happenings by exploring local events, festivals, and promotions. From art exhibitions to live music performances, there’s always something exciting to discover.
By combining the allure of upscale living with a vibrant food scene, Legaspi Village has solidified its position as a premier destination in Makati City. Whether you’re a resident, a working professional, or a visitor, this neighborhood offers something for everyone.
