Quezon City, the most populous city in the Philippines, served as the national capital from 1948 to 1976. Known as the 'City of Stars,' it is a hub for media, entertainment, and government institutions. For frequent-flyer hotel travelers, it offers a strategic base in Metro Manila, combining historical significance with vibrant urban energy, making it ideal for business and cultural exploration.
🕐 Asia/Manila · 💱 PHP
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Stay near the city center or major thoroughfares for easy access to government complexes like the Batasang Pambansa and commercial hubs. Areas like Novaliches offer quieter environments, while central districts provide better connectivity for business travelers exploring the former capital.
Transport relies heavily on road networks due to the city's expansive layout, carved from multiple towns. Ride-hailing services and taxis are recommended for navigating between dispersed districts, ensuring efficient travel to key sites like the House of Representatives complex and media centers.
Visit year-round, but be prepared for tropical weather. As the most populous city, infrastructure can be busy. Light clothing is essential, and travelers should plan indoor activities during rainy seasons to fully enjoy the city's cultural and media attractions without disruption.
national park in Quezon City, Philippines containing the Quezon Memorial Shrine
main temple of the Iglesia ni Cristo found in Quezon City, Philippines
Roman Catholic minor basilica in Quezon City, Philippines
public cemetery in Manila, Philippines
Roman Catholic parish church and national shrine in Quezon City, Philippines
cemetery in Manila and Caloocan, Metro Manila
museum of modern art of the Ateneo de Manila University, Philippines
all-steel church in Manila, Philippines
Roman Catholic church in Intramuros, Manila, Philippines
mosque in Quiapo, Manila, Philippines
seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Cubao in the Philippines
Roman Catholic basilica located in Manila, Philippines
Inspired by the chef's travels, this relaxed restaurant transports you to Thailand with its modern take on Thai favourites. The minimalist setting with playful table and menu designs makes for a casual vibe. Classic dishes include papaya salad, pad thai and tom yum. Curry fans can enjoy the beef short rib or crab curries. The latter uses local crab, tender eggs and a touch of coconut milk. Order the mango sticky rice for a sweet, tangy end to the meal.
🕐 10:00-23:00
Woven tablecloths and ethnic-inspired music set the tone in this cosy place. Expect warm hospitality and classic Southern Mindanao cuisine, which uses spices, acidity and roasted coconut for rich, intense flavours, for example the generously sized tiyula itum stew with beef simmered in coconut broth for a hint of acidity and smoky aroma. The Dulang – an exquisite platter of seven dishes in tasting portions – provides an excellent and varied introduction.
🕐 Mo-Su 11:00-19:00
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.
Tucked away on a quiet street in the heart of Quezon, this Spanish restaurant has a green-tiled shopfront selling Spanish specialities and a few tables for casual dining. In a tasteful interior blending wood, patterned tiles and soft lighting for a relaxed yet polished feel, highlights include the ensaladilla de prawns and croquetas de jamón ibérico, best enjoyed with a glass of Spanish wine. The shaded terrace makes for an inviting spot in fair weather.
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.
Website"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.
🕐 Tu-Su 18:00-22:00
Website"Celera" means "appetite" in Malay, and the sleek, dimly lit, black-toned dining space with an open kitchen delivers a moody ambience. Two chef-owners craft contemporary Asian dishes that draw on influences from Japan, China, Singapore and beyond. Diners can expect umami-rich creations using dashi, fermentation and subtle smoke. Artful plating and warmly hospitable service enhance the meal, making it a lively and sensory-driven experience worth seeking out.
🕐 Tu-Sa 18:00-23:00
WebsiteCulinary excellence meets environmental integrity at Gallery by Chele, from local sourcing and waste reduction to educating diners. They forego à la carte in favour of three carefully crafted tasting menus – a lunch set menu, plus a six or 10-course menu in a vegetarian or fish/meat variant – that showcase Filipino ingredients through indigenous produce and partnerships with local farmers and fishermen.
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