Where to eat, drink and dance: top bars and restaurants with the best DJs in Metro Manila

Tucked behind Sushi Nori in Rockwell, Bar Good Times is an intimate speakeasy that fuses Japanese aesthetics with a splash of art deco flair. It’s a gem for cocktail lovers in search of a nightcap—try their riffs on Japanese classics or settle in with a finely tuned martini—but don’t be surprised if the music gets you dancing and convinces you to stay for another round of drinks. DJs take over the decks on Fridays and Saturdays.

A standout in the competitive nightlife scene, Izakaya Geronimo is one of the best bars and restaurants in BGC, reimagining the traditional Japanese drinking den into a stylish, high-energy hub. Though known for its contemporary takes on Japanese staples (as well as its sake, highballs and Japanese-inspired cocktails), this vibrant space comes alive every Friday and Saturday as DJs take centre stage. Follow them on Instagram to see their upcoming lineup and popular parties. On long weekends and holidays like New Year’s Eve, you can even expect lines out the door—buy your ticket or book a table in advance so you don’t miss out.

Kampai channels the dynamic spirit of Poblacion with its multi-level layout: the dojo on top, where DJs turn up the energy for a sweaty night of dancing, and the red room below, ideal for more laid-back conversations. Expect a lively blend of music—from deep cuts to disco hits—that transitions seamlessly from dinner to dancing. The kitchen opens as early as 6pm, so you can come for the steak rice and stay for the music.

Tatler Tip: In need of a treat after a rough week? Upgrade Kampai’s signature steak rice with choice steak and foie gras.

Perched ten floors above a five-star hotel, Mistral is a rooftop escape that pairs sweeping views with sophisticated sounds. Their weekend DJ sets feature smooth house and lounge tracks, perfectly suited to after-work cocktails. Savour a bespoke cocktail in the open-air terrace or inside the plush lounge, where the ambience evolves from sunset calm to nighttime chic. Want to get the best view? Book a table in the far corner of the terrace just as the sun dips below the horizon.

Read more: Tatler Best 20: The best bars in the Philippines 2025

Named after the Japanese word for “sound,” Oto is a café and bar built around music—literally. Its restored JBL speakers and curated vinyl collection are more than décor; they’re part of the experience. With a broad-ranging lineup of DJs, as well as bartenders who double as selectors on quieter evenings, each night comes with its own sonic mood, from jazz to soul to hypnotic electronica. Music heads, this one’s for you.

Tatler Tip: Oto is also known to host some of the most sought-after bar takeovers in the city—stay tuned to their social media pages so you never miss out.

Out of Office marries the contemporary, vibrant energy of New York City to BGC with playful twists. Their events programme ranges from trivia nights to game nights and, of course, DJs three days a week, creating the perfect backdrop for their tongue-in-cheek cocktails like “Salaryman” or “One-on-One with HR.” Diner-style dishes get a Southeast Asian spin (think cheesy chilli crab nachos, nasi lemak and even banh mi), and their zero-proof options are as thoughtfully crafted as their boozy counterparts.

This cosy Salcedo Village haunt blends Mediterranean flavours with the warmth and hospitality you can expect from a neighbourhood favourite. But Fridays are when Pablo Bistro really comes alive—Destino Pablo turns the dining room into a DJ-driven lounge, where upbeat tunes match the pace of flowing wine and late-night laughter. With a crowd of regulars and seasoned curators, it’s no wonder this bistro feels like a second home. Don’t leave without a glass of their house sangria, and do try their other speciality cocktails—they pack a punch!

Perched on the 38th floor of Solaire’s new luxury property north of the metro, Skybar hits all the high notes. The sleek rooftop venue features a rotating roster of DJs who spin everything from deep house to nu-disco, creating an atmosphere worthy of its dazzling view. Sip on signature cocktails, nibble on upscale bar bites and time your arrival around 4pm to catch the golden glow over the cityscape.

With its towering shelves of rare spirits and vintage barware, The Spirits Library is a go-to for serious cocktail geeks. Music here is an extension of the experience: live bands performing jazz, soul, funk and blues, as well as DJs spinning anything from house to disco. While their signature cocktails inspired by the 1920s and 1930s Philippines demonstrate their knack for storytelling, don‘t shy away from challenging the bartenders by asking for a bespoke cocktail—they never fail to rise to the occasion.