The Philippines is filled with amazing, underrated eateries that are every bit as good as their more famous counterparts. From cozy cafes serving fresh takes on classic dishes to hole-in-the-wall grills dishing out delectable local specialties, these hidden gems offer a unique dining experience.
These 15 best-underrated restaurants in the Philippines are sure to tantalize your taste buds and have you coming back for more! So don’t wait any longer – get out there and start exploring the culinary delights of our nation. Bon appetite!
1. The Smokeyard (Quezon City)
The Smokeyard in Quezon City is an underrated restaurant that deserves to be more widely known. The ambiance is perfect for a laidback dining experience without sacrificing quality and convenience.
Customers come from all over to enjoy the delicious, made-to-order meals and snacks this quaint café offers. Its food specialty comprises classic Filipino dishes cooked with a signature smoky flavor, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for great-tasting grub!
Enjoy your meal in their cozy chairs or even their outdoor seating area, depending on your preference. For those looking for something different, The Smokeyard should not be overlooked!
Address: 93 Sct. Delgado St, Diliman, Quezon City, 1103 Metro Manila
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday (11:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
Phone: (02)83321456
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
2. Hummus Elijah (Makati)
Hummus Elijah is a best-kept secret of Makati which serves up flavorful Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. The ambiance creates a fun, interesting dining experience set by the hustle and bustle of the surrounding city.
Everyone from foodie aficionados to families on a night out can enjoy what this hidden gem has to offer. Its specialty menu items are full of authentic flavors conjured up by its passionate kitchen staff, ranging from hummus bowls to fresh grilled meat platters, ensuring customers experience an unbeatable culinary journey.
All this and more contribute to why Hummus Elijah is one of the Philippines’ most underrated restaurants.
Address: G/F, 5059 P Burgos, Makati, 1209 Metro Manila
Hours: Monday-Tuesday (9:00 AM – 12:00 AM)
Wednesday-Sunday (Open 24 Hours)
Phone: +639053134602
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
3. Rustic Mornings By Isabelo Garden (Marikina)
One of the best-underrated restaurants in the Philippines is Rustic Mornings By Isabelo Garden in Marikina. With a peaceful ambiance and green gardens, this quaint restaurant is sure to make any person’s day brighter.
The menu offers tasty meals from brunch to dinner with options as Filipino classics such as Kare Kare or Diniguan and unique dishes like their truffle mac & cheese, making it an amazing dining experience.
Whether you are meeting up with friends or just want some much-needed alone time, you should definitely visit Rustic Mornings by Isabelo Garden for a delicious meal and quality ambiance.
Address: Marikina, 1800 Metro Manila
Hours: Monday-Sunday (8:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
Phone: (02)84258610
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
4. Kale Cafe + Restaurant (Quezon City)
Kale Cafe + Restaurant is one of the best-underrated restaurants in the Philippines and it’s quickly becoming a popular go-to spot. The cafe has a cozy vibe, complete with soothing green hues and comfortable seating – perfect for taking a break with friends or family.
Here, you can expect to find vibrant flavors of classic Pinoy dishes as well as international fusion cuisine. And if that isn’t enough to convince you, their delectable tasty treats are incredibly budget friendly too!
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or for an impressive family dinner out, Kale Cafe + Restaurant offers something special for all occasions.
Address: Omega Ave, Novaliches, Quezon City, Metro Manila
Hours: Monday-Sunday (11:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
Phone: +639175605508
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
5. My Mother’s Garden (Pasay)
My Mother’s Garden in Pasay is a hidden gem among foodies in the Philippines. It has the distinction of being a restaurant that offers amazing Filipino-style comfort food with an emphasis on freshness and flavor.
The selection of dishes is vast, ranging from popular favorites like pork adobo to unique creations like pinakbet stew made with bagoong guisado. The cooking style also follows time-honored traditions, with all ingredients being sourced directly from local markets and farms.
Even the presentation of each meal was designed to capture the look and feel of a traditional Filipino home kitchen. All in all, My Mother’s Garden boasts flavors that embody the essence of Filipino cuisine, making it one of the best-underrated restaurants in the country.
Address: 1300, 2650 Zamora Street, Pasay, 1303 Metro Manila
Phone: (02)88318407
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
6. Afrique’s Restaurant and Cafe (Iloilo City)
Afrique’s Restaurant and Cafe in Iloilo City is a hidden gem in the Philippines. With its cozy and inviting atmosphere, guests are sure to be instantly immersed in the homey environment of this restaurant. It offers various dishes from both Filipino and international cuisine, all made with the freshest ingredients which tastefully showcase Iloilo’s local flavors.
From light appetizers to gourmet main courses, their menu gives diners an array of delightful dishes to choose from. Experience signature dishes like Ilonggo’s favorite Pancit Molo or celebrate special occasions with an order of warm, freshly-baked Chocolate Lava Cake. Afrique’s Restaurant and Cafe surely is one great find for both locals and tourists looking for authentic delicacies served in a relaxed atmosphere.
Address: PHF4+34G, Castilla St, Jaro, Iloilo City, 5000 Iloilo
Hours: Monday-Saturday (8:00 AM – 9:00 PM)
Sunday (4:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
Phone: (033)3200554
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
7. The Pitstop (Guimaras)
The Pitstop in Guimaras is often overlooked as a dining destination, but it’s definitely one of the best-underrated restaurants in the Philippines. With menus that feature mouthwatering dishes like mango pizza, seafood tapenade, sinuglaw, and spicy kinilaw, there’s something here for everyone and all the flavors hit the spot.
What makes The Pitstop really stand out though is their commitment to using fresh ingredients that are locally sourced. From their homemade sauces to locally grown produce, you will be able to taste the difference without sacrificing your budget. From impeccable service to recurring specials, The Pitstop has earned its place as one of the best-underrated restaurants in the Philippines.
Address: HHWQ+R68, Guimaras Circumferential Rd, Jordan, Guimaras
Hours: Monday-Sunday (8:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
Phone: +639155327174
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
8. Circa 1900 (Cebu City)
Circa 1900 in Cebu is a rising star of the culinary scene in the Philippines. With its Mediterranean-Filipino fusion menu and quaint setting, it’s one of the best-underrated restaurants in the country. Situated in a renovated ancestral house, dining here is an experience for all senses.
The atmosphere is cozy and homey—the perfect backdrop for indulging in delightful dishes like pork dinuguan, grilled eggplant salad, Grilled Bangus Bicol Express, and prawn & mussel paella—all made from only the freshest ingredients sourced from local markets.
If you’re looking for unique flavors you won’t find anywhere else in Cebu City, Circa 1900 is a must-visit spot.
Address: Sanjercas Ville Ext Rd, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu
Hours: Monday-Sunday (10:00 AM – 9:00 PM)
Phone: +639176555005
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
9. Ole Spanish Restaurant (Boracay)
Ole Spanish Restaurant in Boracay, Philippines is one of the country’s most underrated restaurants in the country. Located on a luxurious stretch of beach, visitors can enjoy amazing views while delving into delectable dishes from a classic Spanish menu.
To begin their delicious journey, patrons can start with an extensive range of paellas or seafood rice dishes. Hearty servings of lamb al asador, beef ribeye steaks, and pork chops are prepared to perfection. For dessert, rich flans and artfully arranged chocolate mousse round off the exquisite dining experience at Ole Spanish Restaurants.
A friendly atmosphere and attentive service make it the perfect choice for a relaxed night out – so come to Boracay and treat yourself to Ole Spanish Restaurant today!
Address: Phase-IV, D Mall de Boracay, Station 2, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan
Hours: Monday-Sunday (11:00 AM – 9:00 PM)
Tuesday (Closed)
Phone: (036)2885940
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
10. Pamilya Paura Grill (Bacolod)
Pamilya Paura Grill Bacolod is a bustling restaurant that has become immensely popular with locals and tourists alike. This vibrant food joint serves a tasteful selection of traditional Filipino cuisine, with dishes prepared freshly from local produce.
In addition to their mouth-watering grills, you can also enjoy an array of flavorful appetizers cooked over hot skewers. No matter what you order at Pamilya Paura Grill Bacolod, you are sure to have a delicious meal that is full of traditional Filipino flavors.
Not only is the food delicious and authentic, but the passionate staff creates an energetic and welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. For anyone looking for delicious and authentic Filipino food, a trip to Pamilya Paura Grill Bacolod is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Address: MXPF+X42, Margarita St, Bacolod, 6100 Negros Occidental
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday (10:00 AM – 9:00 PM)
Phone: (034)4337184
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
11. Jack’s Ridge (Davao City)
Jack’s Ridge in Davo City is an underrated restaurant experience in the Philippines. Perfect for those who want an unforgettable dining experience, it offers top-notch cuisine that appeals to both locals and visitors alike.
With a spectacular view from atop a hill, Jack’s Ridge offers an incredible mix of traditional Filipino dishes with modern twists as well as exotic flavors that will leave any diner satisfied. The extensive wine selection pairs perfectly with any meal and ensures that you can enjoy not just delicious food but also drinks fit for your individual tastes.
All this on top of friendly staff serving up customer service sure to make one feel like a VIP makes Jack’s Ridge the ideal place for a night of nostalgia and delight.
Address: 117 Shrine Hills Rd, Talomo, Davao City, Davao del Sur
Hours: Monday-Sunday (8:00 AM – 9:00 PM)
Phone: (082)2978830
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
12. Rg Baguio Native Lechon (Davao City)
Rg Baguio Native Lechon in Davao City is an underrated restaurant in the Philippines. Known for its delicious food, its menu includes mouth-watering dishes from roasted meats like lechon and roast beef to seafood such as grilled prawns and stuffed crabs.
They also offer sides like vegetable chips, baked potatoes, and steamed vegetables. The taste and freshness of their offerings will surely satisfy anyone’s cravings and make them come back for more.
Moreover, the restaurant provides exceptional customer service with courteous servers eager to help guests find exactly what they need. It’s underrated but Rg Baguio Native Lechon definitely deserves everyone’s attention.
Address: 3JH4+29P, Mabini Street Corner Torres Street, Poblacion District, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur
Hours: Monday-Friday (6:00 AM – 7:00 PM)
Saturday-Sunday (6:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
Phone: +639985361751
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
13. Chicken Hauz Restaurant (General Santos)
Chicken Hauz Restaurant is a hidden gem restaurant in the Philippines. Its menu offers traditional Filipino foods with an interesting twist. All their recipes are made with fresh ingredients and flavors that give a unique taste to each dish.
They serve all popular Filipino dishes like pork adobo, kare-kare, sinigang, and bistek, which are sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Furthermore, the atmosphere at their restaurant is warm and inviting – it’s always bustling but never too loud or rowdy.
In general, Chicken Hauz is one of those simple yet heartwarming places that you won’t soon forget – making it worth visiting for anyone looking for a delicious meal and a cozy environment!
Address: 458F+J96, Corner Pres. Jose P. Laurel Avenue, Roxas E Ave, General Santos City, 9500
Hours: Monday-Sunday (10:00 AM – 11:00 PM)
Phone: +639256675560
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
14. Family Fried Chicken Restaurant (Zamboanga)
Zamboanga’s Family Fried Chicken Restaurant has been delighting customers with its delicious fried chicken for years. The atmosphere is lively, warm, and inviting – the perfect place to bring your family or friends for an enjoyable meal.
The menu offers a variety of classic comfort food dishes like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and macaroni salad. All of their ingredients are fresh and locally sourced for maximum quality. In addition to its delicious food, the restaurant also offers fast, friendly customer service that ensures your experience is truly a pleasant one.
With generous portion sizes and affordable prices, it’s no wonder that Family Fried Chicken Restaurant in Zamboanga has become a local favorite!
Address: Mayor Jaldon Street, Canelar Moret, Zamboanga, 7000 Zamboanga del Sur
Hours: Monday-Sunday (10:00 AM – 09:30 PM)
Phone: (063)9919239
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
15. Mama’s Grill (Siargao)
Mama’s Grill on the beautiful island of Siargao calls out to all meat lovers for a truly unique, unforgettable experience. Set in a tropical paradise among sandy shores, Mama’s Grill serves up their signature dishes: authentic Filipino barbecue cooked over charcoal and wood.
These delicious ribs, chicken wings, and other meats are served with a flavor that can only be achieved through natural charcoal grilling. Offering full meals along with an in-house bar, Mama’s Grill is perfect for couples or families seeking a lively, festive atmosphere while they enjoy juicy meats and down cool drinks. Here is your chance to satisfy your craving – head on over to Mama’s Grill today!
Address: Q5W6+27V, General Luna, Surigao del Norte
Hours: Monday (11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
Tuesday-Saturday (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
Wednesday (Closed)
Sunday (5:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
In Conclusion
These 15 underrated restaurants in the Philippines are well-loved by both locals and visitors alike for their unique flavors, fresh ingredients, excellent service, and pleasant atmosphere. From traditional Filipino dishes to international cuisines with a local twist, these eateries cater to all tastes and preferences.
Whether you’re looking for an exotic feast or a cozy night out with friends, these underrated restaurants are sure to provide you with an unforgettable dining experience. So why wait? Head over to one of these hidden gems and embark on a culinary journey through the Philippines!
