As a country who loves to eat and has an evolving culinary industry, how do you navigate your way to the very best of restaurants? What separates a mere good restaurant from the great ones?
The Philippine Tatler has just launched its 2016 edition of the Philippines’ Best Restaurants, recognizing 170 establishments, after being reviewed by trusted reviewers, all well-travelled and well-versed in the culinary and hospitality world. I am honoured to have been invited to contribute as one of them, for a third time around too.
Each restaurant nominated and featured in the Philippine Tatler Best Restaurants Guide is recognized for its excellence. Time-honored restaurants and newcomers to the scene were anonymously tried and tested by the editorial committee beforehand and scrupulously deliberated on. Readers spot surveys were also taken into consideration.
Out of the 170 restaurants featured in the book, the top 20 best restaurants were awarded at the book launch.
Held last week at Finestra at Solaire Resort and Casino, it was an evening that gathered personalities and friends in the hospitality industry.
See the highlights of the night in the video below. (I’m there somewhere…at 3:30!)
[iframe id=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/1eikXAl9xXw”]While every nominee would have wanted the proud distinction, the top 20 were finally revealed — and the awards are well deserved, of course!
Here are the top 20 restaurants chosen for 2016 : think of it as your starting guide to the epicurean adventure our country has to offer!
- Antonio’s
- Blackbird
- Caviar
- Caruso Ristorante Italiano
- Cru Steakhouse, Marriott Hotel
- Crystal Dragon, City of Dreams
- Inagiku, Makati Shangri-La
- Jasmine, New World Hotel Makati
- M Dining
- Nobu, City of Dreams
- Old Manila, The Peninsula Manila
- People’s Palace
- Sage, Makati Shangri-La
- Sala
- Smith & Butcher Grill Room
- The Tasting Room, City of Dreams
- Terry’s Bistro
- Vask
- Wildflour + Cafe Bakery
- Abaca (Cebu)
My deepest gratitude to Irene Francisco and Mia Borromeo of Philippine Tatler for inviting me to be a part of this huge endeavor. I am honored to have been given the opportunity to share my opinion in choosing some of our country’s best restaurants. Do grab a copy and tell me if your favorites are on the list!