库堡公寓，奎松市

With just 14 seats, this minimalist, grey-toned counter restaurant provides an intimate yet vibrant dining experience. Guests perch on comfortable raised seats facing a sleek open kitchen – dishes are presented directly by the chefs. The cuisine leans Japanese with global accents, showcasing top-quality ingredients and elegant contrasts; think hotate with dill and ube, or Wagyu nabe with ikura. A concise list of wine and sake has the perfect accompaniment.

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.

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.

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.

Noodle lovers! Don't miss this humble spot opened 20 years ago and known for Filipino-Chinese stir-fried noodles. Diners can choose from rice vermicelli, egg noodles, or a mix of both. With its moist, springy noodles and crispy pork, the aromatic bihon canton con litson deeply satisfies. Generous portions, fair prices, and a well-ventilated upstairs area – make it a constant favourite among locals.

As one of the trendy restaurants in Metro Manila, Seva was founded by three friends who are passionate about reimagining global dishes with flair. Try their signature dish of vodka rigatoni featuring a hot, peppery tomato sauce topped with rich and creamy burrata for a balanced flavour profile. For dessert, their crème brûlée has a layer of sweet vanilla bean cream below a crispy sugar flake and is finished with lavender cream making it a delightflul ending

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.