Discovering great food in Metro Manila without breaking the bank is a delightful adventure. From hidden gems to well-loved spots, here are our top picks for the “10 Best Affordable Spots in Metro Manila”:
Emily in Pares
Inspired by the Netflix series “Emily in Paris,” Emily in Pares on Zapote St. in Makati City offers an equally thrilling experience with Filipino classics. Their standout dish, the Classic Beef Pares, perfectly balances sweet, savory, and salty flavors. Don’t miss their Crispy Chicken Fillet meal and Tapsilog; the buttery chicken and flavorful Tapa are must-tries. With prices ranging from PHP 99 to 129, this spot is like finding a hidden gem in the bustling city, much like Emily’s discoveries in Paris.
Nam Nam
Located at 20 Maginhawa, Nam Nam is a charming Vietnamese spot offering authentic Pho. The cozy, laid-back atmosphere is enhanced by art and mismatched furniture, making it a unique dining experience. Their Pho Bo (PHP 280) is a hearty bowl packed with flavor and arguably the best in the Metro. It’s so good that we still find ourselves dreaming about it.
Ate Rica’s Bacsilog
Starting as a simple food cart in 2006, Ate Rica’s Bacsilog has grown to 180 branches nationwide. Known for its iconic Bacsilog, a unique twist on the classic Filipino silog, it’s a favorite across the country. We enjoyed the Classic Bacsilog for just PHP 99—a delicious and affordable meal. So, next time you’re seeking a food adventure, head to Maginhawa Street for some satisfying eats!
The Puff Vapery
Located on Esteban Abada St. in Quezon City, The Puff Vapery is a new coffee spot in Katipunan with a cozy interior, perfect for hanging out with friends. They offer great-tasting drinks at lower prices than big coffee chains. We tried their Spanish Latte (PHP 140), which had a strong coffee flavor and just the right sweetness, the Dirty Matcha (PHP 600), said to be the best in town, and the Iced Cocoa (PHP 130), a cool and refreshing drink for hot days.
STK Lab Grill
Found at Bgy. 75 San Rafael St. in Pasig, STK Lab Grill is an underrated spot offering affordable steaks that are both tender and juicy. With its cozy rustic design and al fresco dining area, it’s perfect for families looking to enjoy a relaxed meal. We tried their steak, which cost us less than PHP 500—definitely a great deal for such quality!
Jarret’s
Located on Ruby Road in Ortigas, Jarret’s is the perfect spot for budget-friendly yet delicious meals. Their legendary Tapsilog, known for its incredible flavors and tender meat, will have you coming back for more. Ideal for students and employees, Jarret’s offers silog meals priced from just PHP 50 to 95. With its convenient location and affordable prices, Jarret’s is a must-visit for anyone seeking a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
Urban Chick
Urban Chick at 195 Maginhawa is a well-loved spot known for its juicy grilled and fried dishes. While it may look simple from the outside, the spacious and cozy interior, complete with wooden tables and a classroom diner vibe, makes it a comfortable place to dine. We tried their famous Chicken Barbecue (PHP 130), which offered a perfect mix of smoky flavor and tender grilled perfection. Urban Chick is a great hangout spot for chicken lovers, ideal for spending time with friends and family at student-friendly prices.
Kanin Bawang
Nestled in BF Homes, Parañaque City, Kanin Bawang is a gem offering delicious dishes ranging from PHP 95 to 120. Their Tapsilog, with its tender and juicy meat, is a flavor bomb that melts in your mouth, perfect for any meal of the day. The Bangsilog, with its fresh and savory Bangus, is equally impressive. The generous portions and unlimited rice and soup options make it even better—who can resist that?
Kanto Freestyle
Famous for its affordable and flavorful dishes, Kanto Freestyle has a loyal following among locals and tourists. Located on P. Burgos Street in Makati, this eatery offers a journey through Filipino classics at budget-friendly prices. A satisfied diner remarked, “If you are looking for good food at really cheap and affordable prices, this is the place to come to.” Don’t miss their must-try dishes like the beloved Tapsilog and the tantalizing Honey Garlic Chicken.
Daily by Bo’s
Daily by Bo’s is a great choice for a quick coffee pick-me-up. Located on the 2nd Floor of One Ayala, this coffee stand values convenience and deliciousness. With a wide array of flavors, the only thing that might slow you down is deciding which one to choose. We tried the Daily Iced Caramel, which was perfectly sweet and packed a punch. Stop by for your caffeine fix—it won’t take long!
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