Tucked away along a string of cult-favourite Japanese restaurants, Fat Cat is a cosy listening room serving classic and contemporary cocktails. Inspired by Japanese kissatens, the space is refreshingly modest: dark and dimly lit, with just a handful of tables and comfortable seats, and a simple bar counter facing their illuminated wall of vinyl records from the 50s and 60s. A casual way to kick off the evening with some friends, make new ones by the counter, or even just nurse a well-made drink as you enjoy an evening of jazz through their vintage Klipschorn speakers.

See also: Now Open: Key Coffee Kissaten, an East-meets-West Japanese café at Mitsukoshi Mall BGC

Designed to be your post-work hangout for dinner and drinks, Out of Office combines Southeast Asian fare with creative cocktails in one handsome, sophisticated space. A glance at the drinks menu reveals a collection of playfully named tipples like the Paid Leave and mysterious Confidential (the ingredients of which remain undisclosed), each with equally whimsical presentations. Those after a quick fix can opt for one of their cocktails on tap, while others looking to limit their alcohol intake can choose from their zero per cent ABV selection. Stay for dinner to enjoy classic favourites like Hainanese chicken and nasi lemak or modern bar chow like cheesy chilli crab nachos and Thai disco fries.

Elsewhere in Asia: Jigger and Pony: How a hospitality-first mindset made this Singapore bar one of the world’s best

Between their tropical cocktails, modern Asian bites, and eclectic lineup of live acts and DJs, there is never a dull moment at Barbosa. This laidback, al fresco hangout is one of the latest additions to Siargao’s flourishing F&B scene and has quickly become one of the busiest haunts on the island. Lounge about and catch the sunset, drink in hand— the El Camino makes a fitting golden hour pick, made with tequila, triple sec, passionfruit syrup, lemon, apricot, mint, and Himalayan spices— before grazing across the delicious Asian tapas by CEV’s David del Rosario and Gringo Benedicto. 

Related: Stop, Look, Listen: The resurgence of vinyl and sound systems as the heart of our shared spaces

Natural wine purveyor Bombvinos has opened their Bodega to the public! Home to their extensive selection of natural wines, plus sake, tequila, a handful of cocktails, and neo-Filipino bistro fare by chef Don Baldosano, the Bombvinos Bodega is one of the most happening spots in town. Its atmosphere is warm and inviting, with unfussy interiors suited for any occasion (including private events). The Bombvinos team also hosts regular events like board game nights and tasting classes that make natural wine fun and approachable.

Read more: Natural wine gastrobars in Metro Manila: Meet Bibio and Bombvinos Bodega

Bar Flora gives G&T a whole new meaning. Specialising in gin and tea, this stylish Quezon City space offers cocktails, “teatails”, tea tastings, and modern Asian dishes. While they offer botanical-forward takes on the classics, first-time visitors may want to opt for their signature drinks like the For Flora’s Sake (Bombay gin, junmai sake, pu’er Angostura tincture, and osmanthus syrup) or the Flora Vesper (a flight of three cocktails made with three types of tea and three types of gin) for an experience that’s uniquely Flora.

See also: Umami Mania: 4 savoury cocktail recipes by top bartenders in the Philippines

Find the red door and head on into Big Fuzz, the new Little Tokyo haunt stripped down to the essentials: a relaxed atmosphere, cosy interiors, warm hospitality, and well-made drinks. Whether you’re after classic or neo-classic cocktails, the bartenders will happily whip you up a drink of your choice over some friendly conversation. Come as you are, respect their simple rules of engagement (conveniently shared on their Instagram page), and make yourself at home.

Read more: What exactly do bar consultants do? Tatler talks to Lee Watson

Davao’s Bar Botanica opened the doors to its new space in August 2023, revealing a fresh new look and impressive drinks. Prior to their re-opening, Pourhouse Hospitality’s Cedric Mendoza and David Ong took charge of devising a beverage program true to Botanica’s playful and tropical feel, so you can be certain you’re in for delicious, well-crafted cocktails. Hungry? Botanica also serves a range of Spanish dishes from brunch through to dinner.

Read more: What makes a standout bar? The Curator and The Back Room share industry insights

Explore the spirited world of natural wines at Bibio. Here, you’ll find a diverse portfolio of bottles from some of Manila’s best-known natural wine distributors. While they do offer bottle shop services at special takeaway prices, dishes like the potatoes switch miso yoghurt and ancho chillies, crispy pastrami sandwich, and mortadella with mascarpone are not to be missed. Not big on natural wines? They’ve also got coffee, beer, and funky cocktails (the Paloma milk punch is a popular pick).

See also: Food from the heart: How ferments, matcha, and Korean liquor have taken the world by storm

With plush velvety couches, stylish marble tables, and luxe gold accents, Milka Romero’s latest concept, Bar Good Times, has rapidly become one of the trendiest bars around. While the cocktail menu is lean, the bar is well-stocked and guests are encouraged to ask the bartender for a bespoke drink.

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