Don’t worry — we totally get how you feel about wanting to dine out again. After years into quarantine, it certainly helps to go out every now and then (as long as we take all the necessary precautions, of course). While delivery and takeout are still undeniably the best and safest options, there’s still nothing like going to your favourite food and/or drink spot just like the good ol’ days.
So, if you really must go out, then the next best thing would be to opt for restaurants with al fresco dining. After all, many epidemiologists and public health experts agree that it lowers the risk of airborne transmission of COVID-19, versus indoors. According to an interview with Harvard Medical School physician, Abraar Karan, dining al fresco allows the virus droplets to disperse more quickly and also allows for better social distancing protocols.
That said, if you’re one of the wiser folks who wouldn’t want to get too kampante, here’s a list of your best resto options for outdoor dining in Manila. We’ve narrowed it down to the spacious ones because, hey — peace of mind above all else, amirite?
Note: It’s best to check these restaurants’ social media pages first, so you can inquire and/or reserve before heading out.
Even before outdoor dining in Manila became a necessity due to COVID-19 restrictions, Dean & DeLuca’s first store in the Philippines was already ahead of the game. Its al fresco dining area has always been one of the most Instagrammable spots on this side of the metro, what with its urban garden ambience. Top it all off with their pasta, delectable pastries, and speciality coffee — and you’ve got a relaxing weekend brunch spot!
Price range: ₱1,300 for two people
Address: G/F Edades Tower and Garden Villas, Amorsolo corner Waterfront Drive, Rockwell, Makati
When we talk about Mamou, two best-selling dishes always come to mind: top-notch angus steak paired with yummy truffle pasta. Fortunately, their Power Plant Mall branch has a fair amount of outdoor seating that lets you enjoy your favourites while enjoying the urban outdoors.
Price range: ₱3,000 for two people
Address: Rockwell Drive corner Estrella Street, G/F Power Plant Mall, Rockwell, Makati
Grace Park is a farm-to-table organic resto by the famous Margarita Forés, where she puts a twist on Italian specialities with fresh local ingredients. But don’t let that concept daunt you, since the menu has a well-balanced selection of healthy eats and more indulgent ones. While the indoors boast rustic-industrial interiors, the al fresco dining area is rather straightforward, with a few tables right next to the glass facade.
Price range: ₱1,600 for two people
Address: G/F One Rockwell Building, Rockwell, Makati
Another concept by Margarita Forés, Lusso is a champagne and gastrobar specialising in Italian-French cuisine. In fact, its name literally translates to ‘luxe’ in Italian (foie gras burger and caviar, anyone?). The overall atmosphere of the place evokes an old-world vibe — which perfectly complements its strategic location beside a koi pond amid the ever-lush surroundings in Greenbelt.
Price range: ₱1,800 for two people
Address: Level 1, Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati
Up for some Spanish cuisine with an Asian twist and signature cocktails in an Insta-worthy setting? La Picara — which fortunately reopened despite a *certain event* — is the way to go. Expect interesting fusion dishes like kimchi croquetas and paella with soft shell crab tempura! Both the inside and the veranda feature vibrant tropical vibes that make you feel like you’re in a resort, instead of in the middle of bustling BGC.
Price range: ₱1,200 for two people
Address: 2F One Bonifacio High Street, 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
‘Nikkei’ is the term for Japanese-Peruvian cuisine and true enough, the ones from Nikkei Nama Bar are the best in town. Situated right across Shangri-La at The Fort, its balcony area offers a view of the stunning cityscape amidst the greenery. It’s also quite expansive, so you can bask in the (relative) peace and quiet while enjoying delightful dishes like ceviche and pollo saltado donburi.
Price range: ₱1,700 for two people
Address: 2F One Bonifacio High Street, 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
Homegrown restaurants offering their own take on our local cuisine might be far and many, yet Lampara still stands out with what they call ‘Neo-Filipino.’ And similar to most spots in the Makati Poblacion district, you’ll find it inside a renovated apartment complex. The al fresco dining area is divided into two sections: one enclosed in glass, and the other in completely open air that allows you to enjoy the breeze. Definitely one of the best options for outdoor dining in Manila!
Price range: ₱1,200 for two people
Address: 5883 Enriquez Street, Poblacion, Makati
This popular garden resto in Marikina has long been a top pick for al fresco dining in Manila. Best known for serving all-day breakfast and having a laid-back ambience, coming here always reminds us of weekend trips to the province. After all, its backyard is quite spacious (there’s a unique theme in each section!) and filled with lush greenery that it almost feels like you’re not in the city anymore.
Price range: ₱1,200 for two people
Address: 11 Isabelo Mendoza Street, San Roque, Marikina
Doubling as a restaurant and speciality grocery store, Gourmet Gypsy Art Cafe is all about showcasing global cuisine — albeit not in the pretentious way you’d expect from a place with such a name. At the end of the day, it stays true to its homely location in the ever laid-back Maginhawa by serving up comfort food. Oh, and might as well take a seat at their al fresco dining area, which boasts beautifully crafted furniture and even several art pieces!
Price range: ₱1,400 for two people
Address: 28 Maginhawa, Diliman, Quezon City
A nod to the iconic Flatiron building in New York City, Flatiron 1771 offers scrumptious American-centric dishes as well as signature cocktails that are perf for both post-work nightcaps and weekend slowdowns. Their spacious al fresco dining area offers a view of the mall fountain and matches the theme of the interior: chic black and white patterns, and wooden accents.
Price range: ₱1,500 for two people
Address: G/F Uptown Place Mall, 36th Street corner 9th Ave, Taguig
A well-loved restaurant among Manileños between the ages of 21 and 60, Wildflour Café + Bakery serves up dishes and pastries that are filling, innovative, and can satisfy nearly any craving. Their drinks menu (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) also comes with many cool options, regardless of the time of day. It has several locations with slightly varying concepts around the Metro — some of which have al fresco dining areas that are perfect for people-watching!
Price range: ₱1,500 for two people
While it’s definitely more popular for its third-wave coffee and liquor selection, Single Origin also features a range of comfort dishes for a full (and filling) experience. And don’t even get us started on their stores with al fresco dining. All these offer a relaxing atmosphere that serves as a respite from otherwise congested business districts. It’s no wonder that they’re a go-to for those who work remotely and those who like to imbibe!
Price range: ₱1,400 for two people
Hailed as the quintessential tambayan of the Titas of Manila, Mary Grace Cafe oozes with nostalgic Pinoy interiors that never fail to make us feel right at home. Who doesn’t enjoy reading the handwritten notes underneath the glass tabletops while indulging in their signature ensaymada and hot choco? Good thing that they have select locations around the Metro that offer comfy outdoor seating, too!
Price range: ₱900 for two people
International fusion cuisine tends to get a bad rap among finicky feasters, but dining at Torch Restaurant is enough to make one reconsider. Not only does their menu have a wide range of both likely and unlike cuisine pairings, but it’s also quite affordable! Oh, and don’t even get us started on their sophisticated décor that combines sleek and nature-inspired elements — even up to the outdoor terraces at two of its stores: one a standalone, the other at an outdoor mall.
Price range: ₱1,300 for two people
Best known for offering Tex-Mex dishes in various parts of the globe, Chili’s has a handful of stores scattered around the Metro that have airy outdoor seating. That said, these are ideal settings to enjoy Chili’s bottomless margarita promo… or dig into crowd fave dishes like slow-smoked ribs, burritos, tacos, and quesadillas.
Price range: ₱1,500 for two people
Named after LJC Restaurant Group founder, Larry J. Cruz, Lorenzo’s Way is an ode to his handpicked Filipino-European dishes — some of which are family heirloom recipes! From the classic kare-kare, to the more experimental pork sinigang infused with kamias and langka; there’s surely something to satisfy the cravings of even the most discerning tito and tita. It only has two locations (so far); yet both have a lovely al fresco dining area with plenty of room. Yes, even despite current social distancing protocols!
Price range: ₱1,300 for two people
Draft Restaurant & Brewery is, without a doubt, one of the most popular gastropubs in the metro. Apart from a wide selection of beer, wine, and cocktails, they also have their own craft beer roster: the Compadre Craft. So, yes, this is your best bet for a filling meal paired with locally crafted beer after a long day! For now, only two of their locations remain open, given that both these have spacious outdoor sections that allow you to enjoy the cool breeze and cityscape.
Price range: ₱1,500 for two people
More than just one of Metro Manila’s top fine-dining restaurants, Blackbird at the Nielson Tower is also a historical building that used to be part of the old Manila International Air Terminal. Outside the elegant Art Deco structure, you’ll find an über-sophisticated al fresco dining area that offers the right amount of serenity and seclusion amid the ever-bustling Makati Central Business District.
Price range: ₱3,100 for two people
Address: Nielson Tower, 1221 Makati Avenue, Salcedo Village, Makati
Stepping inside Lemuria Gourmet Restaurant feels like entering a different era of splendid balls and old-school romance. Tucked away in a quiet village in Quezon City, it epitomises timeless elegance and seems to stand frozen in time. This former winery is also where you can enjoy sumptuous French Mediterranean cuisine, especially for special occasions! Just make sure to reserve beforehand if you want to specifically request the outdoor area.
Price range: ₱3,000 for two people
Address: 5 Julieta Circle, Horseshoe Village, Quezon City
And last but definitely not least, we’ve got NINYO Fusion Cuisine & Wine Lounge: arguably Katipunan’s best-kept secret. You’ll find it inside the ancestral home of owner Chef Nins Laus that’s nestled in a back street. Upon entering, you’ll be welcomed by stunning pavilions, hanging vines, and koi ponds that essentially transport you to an enchanted garden. For a couples’ celebration, we recommend opting for a degustation set — plus the gazebos outside that even come with rose petals strewn across the floor!
Also read: Restaurant Guidelines Governing Operations Under MGCQ
Looking for other lowkey restaurants outside of Metro Manila? Good thing we’ve also got recommendations for Antipolo, Cebu, La Union, Vigan, Boracay, El Nido, and Siargao!
Featured image credit: Rustic Mornings by Isabelo | Official Facebook Page
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