Exploring High-End Dining Options in Manila

Manila's Popularity Consolidates Incredible Dining Options

The transformation of Medellin's Manila neighborhood has been enormous. In the nearly decade I've called this city home, Manila has gone from a trendy artists neighborhood to a destination for backpackers and foodies alike. The number of Hostels in this neighborhood is mind-blowing. Seriously, you throw a rock at a building in Manila, you'll hit a hostel.

This has led to a bit of a homogenous neighborhood feel. Manila offers visitors a fun neighborhood without being overwhelmed by beggars, prepagos, and people selling drugs like you will find in Parque Lleras. I don't like top-10 lists too much, but I have compiled 10 restaurants which will all give you a great night out. Also, these are in no order whatsoever:

1. Cierto Rooftop

I'm not a huge fan of rooftop restaurants, however Cierto keeps the high quality of food without the normal snooty attitude of a rooftop restaurant. With an industrial-chic ambiance and a menu that leans heavily on bold, experimental flavors, this is the place to impress even the most discerning palate. There is a small pool and a bar, as seems to be a requirement for rooftop restaurants here. Another thing that sets Cierto apart from the typical smug rooftop establishments in Medellin is that they have a wide range of food options, there is something for every palate here. Make a reservation—this spot fills up quickly. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cierto.mde

Address: Cl. 13 #43D-84 Local 101 & 102
Best For: Upscale dinner with friends or a romantic evening.

2. Café Creta

Really goof Lebanese food is not what you'd expect to get in Medellin, but Crëta delivers. The mixing of Lebanese traditional faire with a Paisa twist makes them a must try foodie option. They have food options for everyone, including the best Shawarma in Medellin, all the way up to the Kofka Estofado, which is one of the best seasoned plates I've eaten in Medellin. The ambience is authentic to Lebanese culture and melts sophistication and inviting warmth. Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/restaurantecreta

Address: Carrera 43f #11 - 30
Best For: A higher class night out at a middle-eastern staple in Medellin.

3. Philly Steaks

Let's face it, sometimes you just want to have a little taste of home, and what Colombian restaurants call a Philly Cheesesteak is embarrassing at best. The owner is from Philadelphia, and has made it his mission to provide authentic American style comfort food, and an ever evolving menu, which now boasts one of the best American breakfasts in Medellin. There is covered outdoor dining as well as indoor dining. Philly shows most sporting events from Colombia and the US, so it remains a great place to "Watch the game". Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/phillysteaksmedellinoficial/

Address: Cra. 43E #11-13
Best For: Late-night cravings and indulgent bites with friends.

4. The Terrace by Wellcomm

For those looking to splurge on a truly unique dining experience, Elcielo is non-negotiable. This Michelin-starred restaurant is helmed by chef Juan Manuel Barrientos, who fuses avant-garde techniques with Colombian flavors. The 13-course tasting menu is not just a meal; it’s an immersive journey through taste, texture, and creativity. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wellcommhotels

Address: Cra. 43E #11-37
Best For: Celebrations and gourmet indulgence.

5. Clandestino Restaurante Lounge

When it comes to entry ways, Clandestino has the most unique in Medellin. You're greeted with a British style phone booth, and the speakeasy stylings only continue from there. There is a upscale vibe about the bar and the restaurant has some of the best fusion cuisine in Medellin. Not to mention, Clandestino is more than capable of hosting any party or gathering you can dream of. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/clandestinorestaurante

Address: Cl. 12 #43b 13
Best For: Speakeasy vibes and a creative menu.

6. 404 House Pizza

If I had a dollar for every time I have seen people complain about the pizza in Medellin, I would have enough to buy a penthouse apartment in Manila. I'm joking, but it's a common complaint. While there are many pizza restaurants who are just not good at all, 404 House Pizza remains one of the best out there. Birthed during the pandemic, 404 House Pizza has gone from a limited delivery pizza, crafted by a pizza aficionado in a backyard brick oven to a destination in Manila. Featuring a beautiful dining room as well as a patio to enjoy the weather and people watch, the atmosphere is impeccable. Not to mention, the pizza options are exceptional, which helps. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/404housepizza/

Address: Cl. 12 #43d-38
Best For: A delicious pizza option with a solid bar.

7. Restaurante Idilico

This place never disappoints. Some have said that this is low-key the best restaurant in Medellin, and I can't disprove it. Every time I've eaten there, the menu changes and it's a perfect blending of international and Colombian flavors, which focuses on freshness and top quality ingredients. The dining experience is phenomenal and the service is some of the best you will get in Medellin. My true advice is to try the seasonal menu, because you will get to taste the unbridled creativity. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/idilico.restaurante

Address: Cl. 12 #43d-21
Best For: An incredible dining experience, unique to Medellin.

8. Bao Bei

Being from the San Francisco bay area, I know my Asian cuisine. It's rare to find a good Asian cuisine here, so when you find one that is delicious, you have to shout it out from the rooftops. I will say that Bao Bei will scratch that itch you have for contemporary Asian faire, and stays very authentic. When you go, I have 2 pieces of advice for you - 1) You MUST get the BBQ Pork Bao and follow it up with the KFC chicken and 2) get there early because it fills up fast later in the night. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/baobeicolombia

Address: Cra. 43F #11-55
Best For: Casual yet refined Asian faire.

9. The King Curry Indian Restaurant

The Indian food in Medellin and I have a checkered past. I got salmonella from one of the Indian restaurants here, and I have tried to avoid it by and large. That is until I tried The King Curry. The chicken Tikka Masala and butter chicken are both incredible options. The garlic naan will leave you wanting more, but do yourself a favor and don't fill up on samosas and naan. I can tell you this from experience. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thekingcurrycol

Address: Cra. 43E #11-23
Best For: Very good Indian cuisine in a very upscale feeling environment.

10. Cambria

I know this is a little out of place, since they close at 9PM, but this is definitely worth starting your night a bit earlier. Where Cambria shines is in their brunch menu, but their later menu doesn't disappoint at all. The chicken breast "Colony Style" and the "Salmon of the Nile" are absolutely perfectly cooked and seasoned. If you want to try the breakfast, the French Toast is possible one of the best I've had here in Colombia. Not to mention, the ambience is quiet and green, making you forget you're in the middle of Medellin. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cambriacaferesto

Address: Cra. 43E #12-16
Best For: An earlier nite, with great food and a quiet environment.

Manila is More Than a Party Destination

Manila’s dining scene is nothing short of spectacular, offering a mix of global influences and local flair. Whether you’re indulging in a Michelin-starred feast or enjoying a gourmet twist on comfort food, this neighborhood has something for every taste. So, put on your finest casual-chic attire, grab a group of friends, and let Manila’s culinary delights transport you. Just be sure to arrive hungry—you’re going to need the room.