Quezon City has long been a vibrant culinary capital, but its gastronomic scene officially stepped onto the global stage with the launch of the Michelin Guide Philippines. This recognition isn’t just about high-end dining; it’s a testament to the city’s incredible diversity, where culinary excellence shines through from humble neighborhood eateries to refined dining concepts. If you’re looking to explore the best and brightest of QC’s food scene, here are the seven recognized spots offering unforgettable flavors and stories.
Morning Sun Eatery (Michelin Bib Gourmand)
Photos courtesy of Jhon Erman-Doydoy
A frequented carinderia turned Michelin spectacle, this humble eatery serves affordable Ilocano dishes made for the everyday worker and the ordinary Filipino. With owners from La Union, just south of the Ilocos Region, their version of Dinakdakan remains authentic, with a smoky char to the pork bits and a creamy sauce to finish. Morning Sun Eatery proves that world-class flavors don’t need the fancy tablecloth, only heart and hard work that delivers simplicity in every bite.
📍 120 J.P. Rizal, Project 4, Quezon City
Some Thai (Michelin Bib Gourmand)
Photos courtesy of @somethaiph
If you’re craving for some d*mn good Thai food and love full-bodied spieces, Some Thai is the perfect Southeast Asian spot in Tomas morato. This Bib Gourmand winner is known for uncompromising flavors that transport you to the streets of Bangkok. Don’t miss their Classic Tom Yum (PHP480 for two), an aromatic and balanced hot and sour soup that will surely earn the asim-kilig expression usually reserved for sinigang. This lively spot is truly worth all the long lines.
📍 195 Tomas Morato, Scout Fuentebella, Quezon City
Palm Grill (Michelin Bib Gourmand)
Photos courtesy of @palmgrillph
With the mission of keeping Zamboanga family traditions alive, this grill brings the rich flavors of Southern Mindanao all the way to the heart of Quezon City. Palm Grill is a vibrant tribute to the region’s rich culinary heritage. A must-try dish is their hearty Beef Satti (PHP350)—tender grilled beef skewers served in a sweet and spicy soup with sticky rice balls. This is the true taste of Zambasulta, promising a sweet, savory, and subtly spiced bite.
📍 179 Tomas Morato, Diliman, Quezon City
Mōdan (Michelin Selected)
Photos courtesy of @modan.mnl
Creativity and craft go hand-in-hand in Mōdan, bringing the flavors of upscale and progressive Japanese cuisine to QC locals. This spot offers an intimate, omakase-style culinary experience, with a front-row seat to the chefs at work. Their menu is always evolving, often highlighting local produce and innovative Japanese techniques. It’s an indulgent delight for the adventurous foodie who deserves the layered experience.
📍 Escalades East Tower, Cubao, Quezon City
Deo Gracias (Michelin Selected)
Photos courtesy of @deogracias.ph
Tucked in a quiet corner of QC is a cozy two-story restaurant bringing the vibrant spirit of Spanish cuisine through a handcrafted and thoughtfully curated menu. Deo Gracias offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere for its diners, perfect for savoring rich flavors. A standout is their Paella Negra (PHP880), a flavorful rice paella highlighting the freshness of their baby squid and the balance of an umami squid ink sufrito and acidic parsley aioli. This spot takes you through a delightful journey for the palate.
📍 12 11th Jamboree Street, Diliman, Quezon City
Esmeralda Kitchen (Michelin Selected)
Photos courtesy of @esmeraldakitchen
A pre-war ancestral house turned into a classic family restaurant, Esmeralda Kitchen reimagines Sunday dinner favorites as an elevated yet hearty Filipino feast. This establishment is known for its beautiful presentation and delicious twist on traditional Filipino favorites. Patrons often rave about their Bicolano-approved Manileño twist to the Tinumok (PHP320), with creamy laing and ground shrimp and pork that is delicately flavored yet so addicting. At Esmeralda, everyone is welcome and all dishes never feel too far from home.
📍 43 Mayon Street, Santa Mesa Heights, Quezon City
Fong Wei Wu (Michelin Selected)
Photos courtesy of Choy Andoque Rosales
Banawe famously houses some of the best Filipino-Chinese restaurants in the Metro, and this Taiwanese turo-turo is not the exception. Fong Wei Wu offers a tempting array of home-style Taiwanese food in a casual setting. A crowd-favorite is the Kidney Misua (PHP320), a healing rainy day noodle soup that offers a clean and aromatic broth. Comfort is this spot’s second love language (after serving good food, course).
📍 82 Banawe Street, Quezon City
From the honest, comforting flavors of a Bib Gourmand carinderia, to the sophisticated, intimate experience of a Michelin Selected Japanese counter, Quezon City offers a dining landscape that is equally diverse and rewarding. These recognized spots showcase the best of Filipino brilliance and craft. It’s about time that these kitchens are celebrated for the dynamic flavors that have earned the city its well-deserved place on the world’s culinary map.
