The promise of new flavours beckons from Banawe.

Wait, is it already Wednesday? If you are just waking up from a food coma, you are not alone. Chinese New Year officially kicked off yesterday, and Binondo was absolutely packed. But do not worry, the celebration actually lasts for 15 days, so you have not missed the boat yet. Whether you are still craving those lucky dumplings or you just want to avoid the stress with a solid meal, there is still time to grab a seat.
Since the Year of the Horse is all about energy and fast moves, you will want to hit these spots before the post-holiday rush settles down.

Image credit: Gloria Maris Official Facebook
Location: Greenhills
This is the big one for family reunions. Located in Greenhills, it is the place where titos and titas go for traditional Cantonese food. They are famous for their Peking duck, which is sliced right at your table and served with onion leeks and momo wrappers. If you want something that sticks to your ribs, their patatim with soft mantao bread is a heavy, reliable choice. It has a formal atmosphere with grand chandeliers, so it is perfect for a proper celebration.

Image credit: Tim Ho Wan Philippines Official Facebook
Location: Multiple Branches
If you want high-quality food but need to keep an eye on your budget, this is your best bet. Since 2009, it has been known as the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurant in the world. You can find them in most major malls like SM Megamall or Glorietta. Their signature item is the baked bun with barbeque pork, which has a crumbly, sweet crust. For a complete meal, look for their "Four Heavenly Kings" menu which includes steamed egg cake and pan-fried radish cake.
Also read: 6 Filipino Foods to Eat During New Year’s Eve for Better Luck and Wealth in 2026

Image credit: Ramon Lee's Panciteria Official Facebook
Location: Santa Cruz, Manila
For those who want a side of history with their noodles, this spot in Santa Cruz has been around since 1929. It was started by a Chinese immigrant and his wife and still looks like a time capsule from old Manila. It is completely unpretentious and focuses on legacy recipes. Their fried chicken and special pancit canton are the stars here. It is a great, grounded choice if you want to avoid the "fancy" mall crowds and eat somewhere with real character.

Image credit: Wai Ying Binondo Manila Official Facebook
Location: Binondo
You cannot talk about authentic Chinese food without mentioning Binondo. Wai Ying has been a staple since 1998 and is always packed with people looking for a quick, delicious fix. It feels like a busy tea house in Hong Kong. Their hakaw and siomai are consistently fresh and plump. If you are feeling hungry, their roast duck and soy chicken rice toppings are some of the best in Chinatown. Just be prepared to wait a bit, as parking and seating are always a challenge.
Also read: China Bans Filipinos From Entering Hong Kong And Macau

Image credit: Ha Yuan Offiicial Facebook
Location: Quezon City
If you are in the North, Ha Yuan along Mother Ignacia is a favorite for home-style food that has been around since 1956. It is a very casual tea house that many people grew up visiting with their parents. They are famous for Maki Mi, which is a noodle soup with a very thick, gooey broth and tender pork. Their fresh Chinese lumpia is also considered one of the best in the city. It is a nostalgic, simple place that delivers honest flavors without the high price tag.

Image credit: Canva Pro
If you want to stay winning this 2026, you cannot stop the festivities just because the main day passed. Finding the best Chinese restaurant in Metro Manila is a whole mood, and these five spots are serving absolute fire. Whether you are chasing that Michelin-star energy at Tim Ho Wan or keeping it lowkey at Ramon Lee’s, you are literally the main character of your own food crawl.
Do not let the post-holiday slump get you down. Grab your besties, head to Greenhills or Binondo, and feast like a legend. These authentic spots are the real deal, so go get those lucky vibes while they are hot.
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