The Best Tapas And Pintxos Bars In Manila, The Philippines

Tucked away from the vibrant and busy streets of Fort Bonifacio, Las Flores is a contemporary Spanish restaurant and cocktail bar specializing in hearty Spanish tapas. Although tapas are often viewed as simple snacks or appetizers, the sheer variety of tapas, from olives, cold cuts of jamon or cheese, to hot tapas like spicy garlic fried shrimps and croquetas de chorizo, can easily constitute a full meal. Contemporary interior decor, with particular attention to small interior objects such as old-fashioned popcorn maker, a small model of vintage car or industrial style lamps contribute to overall laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere of the restaurant. This makes it one of the most interesting tapas places in Manila.

Situated on the second floor of Commercenter building at the Fort Bonifacio, cozy, rustic and dimly lit Relik Tapas Bar and Lounge is one the most popular places for a night out. Famous for its special themed nights, ranging from Open Mic Mondays with live performances from emerging groups, to Retro Future Wednesdays and Friday Heyday, the restaurant is also a great place to eat Spanish and Philippine tapas. The tasting board includes chorizo, beef quesadilla, stir fried calamari or gambas, pork belly and beef salpicao, a traditional Philippine dish made with marinated and stir-fried tenderloin.

Since 2007, the elegant Gallery by Chele restaurant has become a staple of Manila’s fine-dining scene. The small restaurant, seating a maximum of 20 people, also houses a contemporary art gallery, focusing on installation art and showcasing international and local artists in different media such as photography, sculpture, holograms, digital and performance art. The dining experience at the restaurant easily matches the quality of exhibitions, as chef Luis Gonzalez, who previously worked at some of Spain’s best-known restaurants, including Andra Mari, Arzak and El Bulli, builds his menu around the philosophy of ‘Creative Conceptual Cuisine’. To fully appreciate the food, a 12-course meal is advised.

Situated near the Adriatico Arms Hotel, Casa Armas is one of the oldest restaurants in Manila and features traditional Spanish cuisine. The time-tested tapas menu includes various classic dishes such as boquerones, Spanish anchovies marinated in garlic and olive oil, traditional cheese and chorizo or a variety of seafood such as gambas, calamari, angulas, Galician octopus, and frogs’ legs. Similarly, the main meals include traditional Spanish specialities such as paella negra or fish in salsa verde. During the evenings the restaurant has live music, with two musicians singing and playing traditional Spanish guitar music.