Tatler Best-in-Class: Awarding the best bars in the Philippines 2025

Raion may be the hottest new bar in town, but bar manager and co-founder Kate Osmillo is no newcomer. Over the past ten years, this chef-turned-bartender honed her expertise at some of the country’s best bars and cutthroat competitions, steadily climbing the ladder and taking home the gold. Now, Osmillo teams up with head bartender Shinichi Itoh (or as they call him, the “resident cocktail wizard”) to open an exciting new bar in San Juan City, where their passion for mixology prompts experimental concoctions that pay homage to the classics. Envisioned as an inclusive space for novices and connoisseurs alike, Raion promises a warm and inviting drinking experience that inspires curiosity. In need of a caffeine kick? Raion also serves coffee from 10am to 9pm, as well as a range of Japanese- European plates for those after a tasty snack.

Niko Tiutan’s love for beverages began with coffee, landing him a front-of-house and barista position at Toyo Eatery. It
was here that he became enamoured with mixology, inspiring him to launch a bottled cocktail brand with his partner, Alex Atienza. Fast forward four years later, and Tiutan now helms one of the most groundbreaking bars in the country. As Ito’s beverage director, Tiutan leads their evening sessions, serving beverages exclusively through course menus—a
bold decision in the metro’s young bar scene. Using a produce-oriented approach, Tiutan focuses his efforts on championing seasonal ingredients, leveraging innovative techniques to make them shine through every sip. It’s for this reason that Tiutan likewise excels in low- and zero-ABV cocktails—while the spirits add depth and dimension to his drinks, they’re never used as a crutch, challenging this up-and-coming talent to think outside the box.

The Back Room is a swanky speakeasy with 1920s-themed interiors and a themed soundtrack to boot. Come for their creative tipples, but be sure to order delicious snacks from their bar menu too. To step into The Back Room is to travel back in time, reliving the glitz and glamour of the Roaring Twenties, recreating an alluring sense of intrigue and discovery. Hidden within Shangri-La The Fort, Manila, the posh drinking den is tastefully dressed in lavish decor. Guests can expect to be met with exceptional service from their highly passionate and extremely knowledgeable team. Allow them to guide you through the menu and settle you in for a smooth evening as they anticipate your every need. With charisma and professionalism, The Back Room’s bartenders create an engaging and playful atmosphere while maintaining the highest standards of integrity and hospitality. Master mixologist Volkan Ibil steers the ship, skilfully preparing intoxicating signature cocktails and standards that impress with ease.

On the 38th floor of Solaire Resort North, you will find the breathtakingly beautiful Skybar with sweeping scenic views of Quezon City. This rooftop cocktail bar impresses with ease, as its expansive and high-ceilinged space commands attention. Its interiors (by Samantha Drummond, co-founder of Habitus Group, Inc.) are an elegant mixture of tropical and European aesthetics with wood and rattan details, complemented by smooth leather and plush lounge seating. Bright orange pops, striking black and gold details, and dynamic patterns add layers of attitude to this swanky space. Opt for an al fresco experience to truly fully absorb the stunning view and to experience a totally different ambience. Pink cushions and shades of terracotta plus light wood accents highlight the natural colours of the sky, as the imposing outdoor bar sets the scene for an unforgettable night. The wood-panelled floor and candle lanterns evoke a more casual atmosphere, while the bar’s exterior design look remains as luxurious as ever.

Smack in the middle of Legazpi Village you will find Ito, home to some of the most intellectually crafted cocktails in the metro. Pull up a seat and prepare to embark on a unique and daring new drinking experience that will expose you to strange and delicious flavour pairings. At Ito, they offer multi-course beverage flights, with tea and coffee sessions in the afternoon, or cocktail and non-alcoholic tastings in the evening, complete with curated snacks that enhance the experience. This intimate and immersive experience is the first of its kind in the city, and one that has impressed both novices and seasoned experts. Beverage director Niko Tiutan and creative director Alex Atienza take a produce-oriented approach to work on deliberate flavour profiles. Here they place great emphasis on finding interesting ingredients rather than spirits, continuously experimenting to figure out how they can best extract expressive flavours. Sitting in their beautiful bar surrounded by their beloved discoveries, we can taste their passion through every sip.