FAME RESIDENCE by Khiel Lucas

"Hapag", meaning "family table" in Tagalog, is led by a team of young chefs aspiring to reimagine Filipino cuisine with finesse. Tapping into the full potential of local ingredients, they bring a modern, sophisticated touch to traditional dishes. This inventive approach honours regional recipes and time-honoured methods, while challenging expectations and blurring culinary boundaries for a fresh and exciting perspective on Filipino flavours.

Step into this tranquil oasis of straw cloche lamps, lush greenery and shell-lined walls evoking beachside charm. Chef Isip draws on French technique and global influences – from Latin America to Southeast Asia – and makes good use of the wood fire. Local ingredients go into expressive, refined dishes. Order a tasting menu and dine on the breezy terrace or sit at the counter and enjoy à la carte creativity and a front-row seat to the action in the open kitchen.

This modern restaurant reflects the chef's half-British, half-Filipino roots and Spanish influences, blending creativity with precision. The themed, seasonal set menus range from street food to film-inspired surprises; the experience is always evolving yet consistently refined. Expect layered, bold flavours and intricate presentations. An open kitchen and counter seats foster connection. The warm, professional service completes the dining experience.

This counter in the food market serves its delicious signature ribbon-like noodles featuring a chewy and elastic feature. The chef draws on her experience in a Chinese restaurant in New York City to create a menu of Chinese favourites. The pork and shrimp wontons are crisp, with fragrant pork and spicy shrimp.

This casual space featuring glass walls, concrete and soaring ceilings has a simple yet sophisticated modern feel. The buzzing open kitchen sets the stage for bold Mexican flavours. Try the Wagyu beef cheeks and chorizo campechano tacos with house-made tortillas crafted from a blend of Mexican corn types. Vibrant ceviche with leche de tigre and seafood tostadas round out a menu rooted in tradition yet full of personality.

Now Now's minimalist, industrial space gives little away as to the nature of their cuisine. But then you see the intentional approach of the energetic kitchen team at work. The chef explores the flavour potential of ingredients, by actively applying fermentation techniques to Asian favourites such as machang, okonomiyaki and dandan noodles, reimagined with bold twists. Japanese miso and Korean gochujang also feature, adding depth to an intriguing menu.

Discreetly situated on a quiet side street, Lampara welcomes diners with its softly glowing sign and bistro charm. The mood inside, and out on the terrace, is relaxed and inviting. Ingredient-led dishes showcase classic French techniques infused with Filipino touches. Think: octopus, soft shell crab or tofu rice cups. The desserts, both artful and indulgent, are not to be missed! Cordial service completes this quietly confident neo-Filipino gem.