Cover Foodie Finds with Nicole Ortega, here she tells Tatler where to go and what to order (Photo: courtesy of Wolfgang's Steakhouse)
Foodie Finds with Nicole Ortega, here she tells Tatler where to go and what to order (Photo: courtesy of Wolfgang's Steakhouse)
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Welcome to Foodie Finds! This is an article series by Tatler, chronicling where and what to order according to the food-obsessed
I’ve never quite understood non-foodies. How can one resist the pull of layered spices, familiar aromas and the memories that surface with every bite? Dining is not merely about eating—it is an experience meant to be savoured, discussed and shared. Around the table, we connect: we pass plates, trade stories and learn about one another in ways words alone cannot capture.
A single dish can reveal a person’s roots, a culture’s values, even a nation’s history. Food is heritage and artistry intertwined—shaped by skilled hands honed through years of training, instinct and devotion. From celebrated chefs and rising talents to home cooks and grandmothers who cook from memory and heart, these makers fill our plates with emotion. And in doing so, they remind us why, for food lovers, the search for what and where to eat next is never-ending.
See also: Chef Wade Watson returns to fine dining with Brontë, his new Australian steakhouse
Here, we speak with Nicole Ortega, a lifestyle content creator, artisanal food purveyor and homeware enthusiast whose love for good food extends from restaurant tables to home kitchens. Known for sharing positive inspiration through her content and entrepreneurial ventures, Ortega is constantly on the lookout for memorable meals, comforting classics and hidden gems. From neighbourhood cafés to trusted takeout favourites, she shares the places she keeps returning to—and exactly what to order.
Read more: Heritage recipes from Tatler friends, Nicole Ortega, Cheryl Tiu, Marielle Po and more
What are the regular restaurants you enjoy going to on your day off?
Lusso is my default. Their Negroni is done well and pairs perfectly with specials like the chicken schnitzel. I am also overjoyed that they still have the straccetti di manzo, their Italian-style salpicao, on the menu.
What is a new restaurant you’ve recently discovered and enjoy?
Pluck. They do roast chicken exceptionally well, and serving it over a bed of charred cabbage is pure genius. Their Iberico pork collar is rich and deeply flavourful, while the Scratch flatbread with miso butter immediately whets the appetite for what's to come.
Where do you get your favourite dessert?
I’m not a big dessert person, but I do have a few sweet treats I always come back to. The classic Cuerva mango torte from the Petron gas station remains a favourite—nutty, fruity and best enjoyed frozen. I also love the chocolate chip cookie from Green Light Burgers. It’s homey, classic and the perfect size.
See also: What are the types of milk? A simple guide to dairy and plant-based options
Where is your favourite café? What is your coffee order?
I love Toby’s Estate’s cold brews and Americanos. Their calamansi pie deserves a mention too—sweet, tart and the perfect companion to your coffee of choice.
What is your go-to spot for a nightcap?
Lately, I’ve been returning to a classic: The Bar at The Peninsula Manila. It’s a great place for private conversations. And now that Iron Fairies has opened, it’s become another lovely spot to wind down with friends.
What is your favourite restaurant for breakfast or brunch?
My kids love Refinery in Rockwell for the Cajun-spiced pasta or steak and eggs. As for me, I always gravitate towards the grilled cheese pesto sandwich paired with tomato soup.
What is your favourite restaurant for late-night eats?
Baka Ramen on Pasay Road. Their clean, comforting shio ramen and incredibly flavourful chicken karaage keep me coming back. It’s one of the most umami-rich ramen experiences I’ve had in Manila, while still feeling lighter than the tonkotsu-heavy bowls we’re used to.
Where do you order your favourite Filipino food from?
Grace Park. Their interpretation of Filipino classics is so thoughtfully curated. The molo soup, kare-kare, lamb adobo and pitaw are regular cravings that stay on rotation.
Where do you order your favourite bread from?
Paul for the Charlemagne baguette and pain de campagne. Jipan also has wonderful soft loaf breads. More recently, I’ve been enjoying the schiacciata from Nkd Bakery.
See also: Curio and Epicura by chef Bettina Arguelles bring a fresh take to deli dining and bespoke catering
Where do you go for your favourite steaks or meats?
For familiar flavours, it’s Melo’s Steakhouse. For juicy steaks and classic steakhouse sides, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse is always a good idea. Their newly launched pastrami sandwich is excellent, and I can never say no to a classic roast beef au jus.
Where do you go for your seafood fix?
Hai Shin Lou. I go for the suahe and tausi clams, and if I'm craving fatty female crabs, I’ll usually call a day ahead to make sure they’re available.
Where do you go if you want to dine solo?
I like to wind down alone at Isogi, San Antonio Square. I love their beef teppan with a hot bowl of Japanese rice and miso soup, or soam aburi and tempura. Even their grilled items are done simply and well. It’s quick, good, and I get to go to the Blessed Sacrament in San Antonio before or after a meal.
See also: Azucarera Bacolod embraces its own personality beyond traditional Spanish cuisine
Where do you go for date night?
Sala Bistro, has weekly specials we like to go back to like the chicken and leek pot pie or the seafood stew that is full of firm chunks of seafood in a rich tomato and dill broth.
Where do you go for your favourite noodles? From pasta to ramen? What do you order and where?
Pasteleria La Nuova is my old school noodle and sandwich fix. They still serve their classics al dente and packed with flavour.
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About
Isabel loves to learn, and see things from different perspectives. Connecting with people and engaging in new experiences to broaden her horizons is what inspires this storyteller, keeping her constantly curious, and excited for what's to come. An absolute love for all things F&B ignited a hunger to devour content from this world and keeps her jumping into tasty adventures around the globe. From the beauty of simple bites, to nuanced fine dining tasting menus, street food, and the art of entertaining, the multi-faceted nature of the dining experience is something she can't get enough of. A good cup of coffee or a glass of wine paired with a dash of witty conversation is a quick way to win her over. This editor loves travelling, food, music, skincare, fitness, and is only friends with people who love dogs. Guilty pleasure?: Binge-watching TV shows and movies she has already seen.
Work
Concept creation is the name of the game and branding takes centre stage in Isabel's day-to-day schedule. From producing shoots, conceptualising bespoke projects for our partners, relationship management, to cooking up features and events for Tatler Dining, this editor is a tried and tested foodie at heart. She mainly writes content for Tatler Dining, engaging in captivating discussions with restaurateurs, chefs, producers, and food enthusiasts to tell must-know stories. Aside from that Isabel manages Tatler Dining's flagship events like Off Menu, or Cocktail Festival and puts together the Tatler Dining Guide, our annual listing of the best eats around town.
Follow her on Instagram @isabelvmf.
