BEST RESTAURANTS TO EAT IN POBLACION, MAKATI: THE ULTIMATE 2025 FOOD GUIDE
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Poblacion, Makati has evolved into one of Metro Manila’s hottest food and nightlife districts. A mix of hole-in-the-wall gems, iconic comfort food stops, fusion concepts, and late-night dining, this eclectic neighborhood never runs out of options. Whether you’re craving street-style tacos, Southeast Asian flavors, Mediterranean dishes, or modern Filipino dining, you’ll find something unforgettable in Pobla. Here’s the ultimate guide to the best restaurants in Poblacion, Makati (2025) — featuring crowd favorites, cult classics, and must-visit spots for first-timers.
EL CHUPACABRA
Best for: Street-style tacos, Mexican comfort food El Chupacabra remains the Poblacion classic. Known for its affordable and authentic street tacos, lively vibe, and always-crowded sidewalk seating, this cult favorite is a must for first-timers. Top picks include Carne Asada Tacos, Chicken Al Pastor, and their famous BBQ Chicken Skewers.
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FILLING STATION BAR & CAFE
Best for: American diner, late-night food, Instagrammable restaurants Step into a visually stunning 50s-themed American diner. Filling Station is open 24/7 and famous for its huge servings, nostalgic interiors, and classic comfort dishes like burgers, milkshakes, pizza, ribs, and breakfast plates.
CRYING TIGER STREET KITCHEN
Best for: Thai street food, Southeast Asian flavors If you love bold, spicy flavors, Crying Tiger serves legit Thai and Southeast Asian dishes—from Pad Thai to Moo Ping grilled skewers. It’s affordable, flavorful, and a go-to for casual, late-night Asian eats.
KHAO KHAI: THAI CHICKEN HOUSE
Best for: Thai fried chicken, comfort food Khao Khai is known for its juicy, crispy Thai fried chicken inspired by Chiang Mai street food. Try their Khao Soi, Som Tam, and Northern Thai-style dishes for a true comfort meal.
HA NOI PHO
Best for: Vietnamese pho and bánh mì Ha Noi Pho offers flavorful pho bowls simmered for hours, delicious banh mi, and classic Vietnamese spring rolls. Light, fresh, and perfect for rainy days or late-night cravings.
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88WOK
Best for: Fast Asian stir-fries, budget-friendly eats 88WOK is famous for customizable stir-fry bowls, fried rice, noodles, and savory Asian comfort meals. It’s quick, filling, and perfect for those on a budget.
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TETSUO
Best for: Japanese fried chicken, donburi, street-style Japanese Tetsuo has become a cult favorite for its flavorful karaage, chicken sandos, and Japanese-influenced rice bowls. Modern, edgy, and consistently delicious.
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HUMMUS ELIJAH
Best for: Mediterranean, vegetarian-friendly A long-time favorite, Hummus Elijah serves some of the best hummus, falafel, shawarma, and pita in Metro Manila. Affordable, fresh, and great for both meat lovers and vegetarians.
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BABAGHANOOSH POBLACION
Best for: Baba ganoush, kebabs, Middle Eastern comfort food Known for flavorful kebabs, smoky baba ganoush, and mezze platters — Babaghanoosh is a cozy spot that delivers consistent Middle Eastern goodness.
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BUCCANEERS RUM & KITCHEN
Best for: Craft cocktails + Caribbean food This pirate-themed bar serves rum-based cocktails and Caribbean-style dishes. Fun atmosphere, good music, and unique food like jerk chicken and Caribbean rice bowls.
ESSENTIAL GOODNESS FOR THE PILGRIMS
Best for: Brunch, comfort food with a view Located at Lub d Hostel, this rooftop restaurant is perfect for brunch and sunset dining. They serve hearty modern comfort food like burgers, pasta, and Filipino plates
BUTCHER’S MANILA
Best for: Steak, grilled meats A carnivore’s paradise. Butcher’s Manila offers premium meats grilled to perfection — ideal for a hearty night-out meal or celebrations.
AURING’S
Best for: Filipino comfort food Auring’s serves nostalgic Filipino dishes with a home-cooked feel. Expect kare-kare, crispy pata, silog meals, and Filipino favorites served with a modern twist.
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COSMIC
Best for: Vegetarian and vegan dining Cosmic is one of the best vegan restaurants in the metro, serving plant-based versions of Filipino dishes like sisig, kare-kare, and wings. Even non-vegans love it.
OTHER POPULAR PLACES TO EAT IN POBLACION, MAKATI
Other Popular Places to Eat in Poblacion, Makati If you want even more options, here are other crowd favorites: Agimat at Ugat Foraging Bar – Filipino-inspired bar and restaurant The Wild Poppy – Asian fusion and comfort food Dr. Wine Makati – great for wine & cheese nights Tambai – yakitori and street-style skewers Lobo Filipino Tavern – modern Filipino Polilya (if reopened) – craft beers + unique bar bites Commune Café + Bar – coffee and Pinoy comfort food Run Rabbit Run – award-winning cocktails (pair with their food menu) Japonesa – high-end Japanese-Peruvian fusion
WHY POBLACION IS ONE OF MANILA’S BEST FOOD DESTINATIONS
Poblacion stands out because of its: Wide range of international cuisines Budget-friendly to upscale options Late-night eateries and bars Walkable food crawl streets Mix of hidden gems and iconic institutions Whether you're planning a date night, food crawl, barkada hangout, or solo foodie trip, Poblacion always has something new to explore.
FINAL THOUGHTS
If you're searching for the best restaurants in Poblacion, Makati, start with classics like El Chupacabra, Crying Tiger, Filling Station, and then explore exciting newcomers like Cosmic, Auring’s, and 88WOK. From tacos and Thai food to Mediterranean eats and Filipino comfort meals—Poblacion truly has it all.
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