Any dialogue concerning fine dining in the Philippines will inevitably circle back to Antonio’s. Tucked away in Tagaytay City, chef Antonio “Tony Boy” Escalante’s serene dining destination marries a romantic old-world mansion, picturesque gardens, seamless service, and elegant international favourites in one world-class experience. Even over a decade since they first welcomed guests through those iconic gates, Antonio’s continues to set the standard.

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This Thai establishment may not be new to the scene, but chef Watcharaphon “Ja” Yongbanthom has truly floored guests with her vibrant tasting menus. Launched just last year and housed at the regal Dusit Thani Manila, the contemporary Benjarong experience puts an innovative twist on dishes like tom yum and red duck curry while staying true to the flavours of robust Thai cuisine. Meanwhile, classicists can still enjoy traditional renditions of their favourites, expertly prepared by the gracious chef.

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A verifiable institution in Metro Manila’s fine dining scene, Blackbird at The Nielson tower ticks all the boxes. The airport-turned-restaurant is handsome to say the least, boasting stunning art deco interiors from the front bar to the back patio. Thoughtful service from the attentive staff who take note of your regular orders makes each experience personal and memorable. And of course, chef Colin Mackay’s refined Asian-European fare remains consistently reliable.

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The choices are truly endless when it comes to Chinese cuisine, but few restaurants do it with such finesse and creativity as China Blue by Jereme Leung. Artful interpretations of both regional finds and popular staples make the elegant restaurant a must-try and continue to impress even its seasoned regulars. With a panoramic view of Manila Bay and well-appointed private rooms for larger gatherings, China Blue is among the country’s top epicurean luxuries.

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As the premier restaurant of the prolific chef Chele González, Gallery by Chele brings local ingredients to the fore using global techniques and world-class culinary deft. While the chef’s innovation remains to be the main draw, respect for tradition and environment remain principal tenets for the regularly-changing tasting menus. With warm wood textures juxtaposed by chic marble countertops and crisp white linens, the restaurant beautifully reflects chef González’s modern yet organic style.

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At Hapag, the modern restaurant run by chefs Kevin Navoa and Thirdy Dolatre, every picturesque dish begins with a deep understanding of native ingredients and Filipino techniques. This fervent comprehension allows the duo to toy around with familiar dishes, imbuing global contemporary techniques while remaining faithful to the original inspiration. Fortified by knowledgeable staff and friendly service, Hapag earnestly advocates for the celebration of Filipino cuisines without ever being unapproachable.

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This is Josh Boutwood at his most unfettered. The intimate restaurant places the creative chef front and centre (literally) to present his latest theatrical degustation, be it a monochromatic show or a journey through Magellan’s voyage. It is an invitation to dress to the nines and indulge yourselves in a gastronomic experience that delights discerning palates and thrill-seeking minds.

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Be it for udon, donburi, tonkatsu, or an exquisite sushi omakase, Kazunori consistently stays top of mind when it comes to Japanese cuisine. Everything from quick lunches to special occasions is well at home at this much-loved restaurant, where quality remains a consistent priority throughout the diverse menu—beverages, too. While the main dining experience offers a steady selection of authentic picks, the casual Kazu Café offers funky Western-inspired dishes that prove fusion can be both fun and palatable.

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At this sophisticated and dependable restaurant, one of the country’s most revered chefs, Margarita Forés gets to flex her prowess for refined French-Italian cuisine. Fresh truffles, luxurious caviar, and delectable foie gras are epicurean treats regularly found on the menu—but given her love for Filipino ingredients, seasonal additions like diwal are not uncommon either. Pair these elegant bites with top-shelf tipples and stylish ambience and a meal at Lusso is effortlessly chic indeed.

Read more: Flavours of My Youth: Margarita Forés revisits the dishes that shaped her childhood

Led by chef Tom Bascon and Tippi Tambunting, M Dining has become a restaurant that has garnered a swarm of regulars who cannot seem to stop returning for more. Walking into the dimly lit, plush, polished yet homey interiors immediately evokes a sense of homecoming. Seeing bright-eyed waitstaff who all know their regulars by name, and settling into those iconic cushy red chairs at your favourite table ushers in the beginning of what you already know will be an incredible meal. Craveability and the desire to frequent a restaurant time and time again is a hallmark sign that the establishment has done its job, and done it well.

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Experience a swarm of emotions from respect, to delight, and awe when dining at chef Bruce Ricketts’s playground. At Mecha Uma, guests are treated to an incredible sushi omakase where quality meets talent. His produce-centric menu puts craftsmanship on a pedestal–he pays the utmost attention to every facet of his dish, from intricate knifework, layered creations, to the treatment of rice. At Mecha Uma, you can expect a meal to remember.

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Forget all that you knew about Filipino food and dive into chef Stephan Duhesme’s wild creations to understand how this gourmand is turning our cuisine on its head. This young chef toils away when doing R&D to consistently reinvigorate his tasting menus with a fresh understanding of his Filipino heritage. Using local ingredients, cooking techniques, and familiar flavour profiles, Metiz delivers Filipino food like you’ve never seen before.

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Tucked away in Legazpi Village is this French bistro that will treat you to an array of mesmerising flavours prepared by chef Miko Calo. With a strict eye for detail, a sense of sophistication, a nuanced palate, and a dedication to her craft, this culinary talent pours her soul into her food—and we can surely taste it. The restaurant’s interiors are thoughtfully designed to weave Filipino accents along with beautiful hues of French blues plus elegant gold adornments and white tablecloths. From drinks, to food, and even ambience, what’s not to love?

Read more: The culinary capitals of the Philippines: chef Miko Calo’s guide to Agusan del Norte

Pay a visit to Mōdan to understand how chef Jorge Mendez boldly yet quietly flexes his culinary chops through his love letter to Japan. Through his well-curated progressive menu, you should expect impressive modern Japanese fare, bursting with unusual pairings, a range of textures, and interactive plating to boot. While seated at Mōdan’s communal 12-seater table, bond over each stunning course and observe chef Mendez at work behind the open kitchen. Fresh on the scene, this restaurant already has us hooked and craving for more.

See also: Mōdan MNL: inside chef Jorge Mendez’s new Japanese private dining concept

At Toyo Eatery, Filipino culture takes its rightful place under the spotlight. Chef Jordy Navarra and his team have played a significant role in uplifting how our cuisine, produce, and fine dining landscape have been perceived internationally. His staunch dedication to loving local and telling heritage-filled stories through his usage of indigenous ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and familiar flavours to create dishes that are shiny and new has put Toyo Eatery on the culinary map. With his better half May Navarra leading operations and front-of-house service, the pair is hard to beat.

In case you missed it: Together they thrive: How did Jordy and May Navarra build Toyo Eatery?

For traditional, delicious Japanese food that will wow you every time, Tsukiji is the destination for you. With only the best seafood flown in from Japan, melt-in-your-mouth cuts of Wagyu beef, and expertly cooked noodles to boot, this restaurant has proven year in and year out why it’s a favourite. The service team understands the menu from back to front and can confidently make suggestions for their regulars who they welcome back like family.

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If Spanish fare is what you are after, head to Txanton and indulge in the finest selection of jamón and comfort food to pair with an exquisite selection of wines. From beautifully cooked traditional meals to educational jamón tastings, you are never remiss to grab a seat at Txanton’s shared tables. Booking their private rooms is ideal for a celebration or dinner with friends–they can even prepare a bespoke menu to cater to your every craving.

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Here, dive into Basque cuisine and relish the flavours of Donostia. At Txoko Asador, don’t expect only traditional Spanish dishes as the team turns some classics on its head—and their inventive innovations sure do impress. From the whimsical to the familiar, expect perfectly cooked dishes that never fail to satisfy. Every bite is infused with such flavour and appreciation for Spanish culture that you are hard-pressed to not have a great time.

In case you missed it: Why a meal at Txoko Asador will keep you coming back for more

Wagyu Studio is not your average steak house. Here, expect the best cuts of meat from quite literally the best cattle in the world. Chef Yoji Kitayama curiously experiments in the kitchen, showcasing his talent and love for food through every innovative bite on their evolving tasting menu and each à la carte dish. Their creations, simple and intricate alike, are designed to emphasise and introduce the beauty of A5 Kobe beef to the Philippines. Step into Wagyu Studio and be impressed not only by their food but also by their attention to detail when it comes to service, as pampering guests to ensure a beautiful dining experience is just as important to their team.

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