Poblacion’s bid as the hottest nightspot shows no signs of slowing down. This is despite some concerns from locals living in the neighborhood coupled with pressures from the local government. In fact, if the latest deluge of new dining and drinking spots is any indicator, it seems like Poblacion is only getting started.
While the downtown area is known for its pubs and popular late night establishments, it has also seen a handful of restaurants serving various international and fusion cuisine. Whether for a drink or for a meal, here are five new spots in Poblacion you should try next time you go there.
Concepto
6234 Mañalac Street, Poblacion, Makati
One of the first few restaurants around Manalac Street, Concepto offers more than just a quick bite and a drink. You can enjoy a live performance by local artists, shop at the lifestyle store out front, and choose your own choice cut and have it cooked the way you want.
Gaja Korean Kitchen
2F 8445 Kalayaan Ave., Poblacion, Makati
This new Korean restaurant takes its cue from the rise of Korean cuisine in the country and not just in Poblacion area. Offering their take on traditional Korean dishes, Gaja (roughly translates to “let’s go”) aims to reintroduce the culture along with the food through an immersive dining experience.
Estée
Location: 5655 Don Pedro cor Jacobo, Poblacion, Makati
Poblacion’s newest occupant is a hybrid between a cafe and a bar, where diners can expect French cuisine consists of an array of mains, entrees, and surprisingly, decadent finger food like this caviar pie with chips to go with their cocktails.
NoKal
8464 Kalayaan Ave, Makati, Metro Manila
Short for North of Kalayaan, this bar barely opened is dubbed as “Poblacion’s hottest club.” NoKal is the brainchild of brothers Marco and Joey Viray who are behind Joe’s Craft Brew, and Japanese joint Ebi 10. The three-floor property has a fully-airconditioned space with a bar, DJ booth, and an al fresco deck on the third floor.
The Odd Seoul
2F 8445 Kalayaan Ave., Poblacion, Makati. Inside Gaja
If you think our going Korean stops at food with Gaja, you clearly haven’t been to the Odd Seoul, which you can think of as Gaja’s cooler brother hidden inside the Korean restaurant. And don’t get confused by the dim lighting and the neon lights inside, the true gem is their Kimchi Sour, a delicious drink with soju, kimchi juice, and dried roses.
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Read more:
5 new restos in the North you probably haven’t tried yet
5 new food spots in the South to take your Northerner friends to
10 new restaurants to add to your dine out list
Writer: CHRISTIAN SAN JOSE
