Casa REYNA at KASARA Urban Residences

"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.

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.

This Italian restaurant playfully experiments – think bruschetta topped with mango – to deliver a fresh yet satisfying twist on familiar dishes. In addition to pasta, seafood and meats, more traditional pizzas arrive from the open kitchen, with tasty smoky crusts. Their tiramisu, too, strays from tradition but retains that home-made feel. Exposed brick walls evoke Tuscan charm, and diners can enjoy the city views from this sixth-floor perch in the mall.

Spanish chef brings his southern Spanish roots to the heart of Ortigas Centre. Classic and more inventive tapas, such as ibérico pork katsu, set the tone. The seafood options are a nod to the chef's coastal roots, with famed anchovies sourced from Spain, but local Lapu Lapu also stars. Finish with the popular Sobo Pasiego dessert. As you tuck into the good-value lunch menu, savour the view of the city skyline from the rooftop terrace.

This modest roadside eatery serves authentic Ilocano comfort food. The place uses a turo-turo style of service, where diners pick their dishes from the counter before they’re brought to the table. Presented with a rich flavour, home-style classics such as kilawin, sweet pork skewers, pinakbet and the standout laing: taro leaves simmered in coconut milk pairs well with rice. Check their social media for daily specials.

This modest, family-style eatery in Taguig brings the charm of Hanoi to Manila with a menu of Vietnamese favourites. Expect comforting bowls of phở gà, a crisp nem rán appetiser and fragrant rice noodles with grilled pork. There aren't any desserts, but the bánh mì makes for a speedy, satisfying takeaway. Its name, an affectionate nod to Vietnam's capital, reflects the warmth and soul you will relish in every bite. Simple, sincere and quietly memorable.

This long-standing restaurant has been bringing Chinese cuisine to Metro Manila for over 25 years. Rooted in Cantonese tradition, the chef's repertoire also draws on Sichuan heat and Beijing classics. À la carte options encourage sharing, with recommendations pictured on the menu. Dumplings, such as generously packed shrimp parcels, are crafted by a dim sum master. Polished service and vibrant, comforting dishes make Summer Palace ideal for special gatherings.