CHOOSING the right place for a date can be tricky, especially if you’re doing it on a particular day like Valentine’s, an anniversary, or for the first time.
The idea is to bring your date somewhere nice, to a place that can make this person feel special and primed for a romantic moment. You want to go somewhere a little over your price range but not so much that you’d reconsider a second job to cover the cost.
Fast food is out of the question. But the most creative people might attempt to get takeout and set up the balcony of their high-rise condominium for such an idea.
But if you want to avoid over-preparing or don’t have the time to set it up yourself, here are some places in Metro Manila where you can wine and dine the one you love as long as you make your reservations early.
The Nest Dining in the Sky
📸Vivere Hotel Website
Vivere Hotel and Resorts has this tower smack in the middle of the Alabang business district. The place is pretty romantic, especially at night. Alabang residents have been familiar with the site for a while now. Countless relationships and intimate conversations have filled the air in this penthouse.
A white spiral staircase awaits your date for a potential profile photo.
You might have to reserve a table before going, as this place can be quite in demand, especially during the holidays and special occasions. It is very Instagramable and has an above-average menu.
Straight Up Rooftop Bar at Seda
📸Straight up FB
The only caveat about this place is that it can be a little busy on weekends. Other than that, it’s pretty chill. Beef tapas and Buffalo wings might whet the appetite, then you and your date can wash these down with a few drinks at this slightly pricey bar. It has good service and is located near High Street in BGC.
https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/674583516045710/straight-up-bar/
White Moon Bar
📸White Moon Bar FB
Just watching Manila Bay’s perfect sunset is already worth the price of admission. Not that you need it. White Moon bar is just a stone’s throw away from Manila Ocean Park and conveniently located at Hotel H20. Staying here could become a whole-day affair. The place opens at 5 p.m., so visiting Ocean Park or perhaps taking a stroll by the bay walk is not the worst idea. The place serves great food to go with some delicious cocktails.
https://www.instagram.com/whitemoonbar/
Sky Deck View Bar
📸Bayleaf Hotel website
There is no better place to be in Metro Manila than to be up there, nestled in the sky and seeing the breathtaking view of its skyscrapers. Bayleaf Hotel is near Intramuros, and a quick trip to the historic site can make for casual conversations before heading to this venue to take in the view. Happy hour is between 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/1836439406678442/sky-deck-view-bar/
Black Bird Makati
📸Black Bird Makati
If you want classy and elegant, this is the place to be. It may be a bit pricey, but it’s worth it for the romantic gesture, effort, and ambience. It’s in the middle of the Makati Business District, and a hop, skip, and a jump from Greenbelt Mall. It may be convenient if you plan to catch a whole last show or a nightcap with your date.
https://web.facebook.com/pages/Black-Bird-Makati/279903775790036
Tahanan Bistro
📸Tahanan Bistro FB
If you are coming from Manila, allot more time to get to Tahanan Bistro because this is in Antipolo. But this is the best place closest to nature from the city. It has a good menu. The food is delicious, and the place is sublime. Going there feels like you are heading home to the suburbs, and it gives a homely vibe. It’s a bit of a trek walking to the restaurant from the parking lot, but it’s all good.
https://www.instagram.com/tahananbistro/
Manila Bay Sunset Cruise
📸Sunrise Cruise website
There are a few you can book online. Depending on the yacht company, prices range from Php1,500 to Php 8,000 per person. Sun Cruises is more affordable at the lowest price range. But the scene and the photo opportunities from this experience are worth the trouble. It may get a bit crowded on the boat if it’s a peak day, but you might be able to pull this one off with a little bit of confidence and good conversation.
There are more romantic locations in Metro Manila other than the places mentioned on this list. More venues are probably less expensive and more accessible, like the Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati, which is great for a stroll, some holding hands, and a snack.
It’s best to remember that the most important thing here is the company you keep, and the effort and the time you spend together.
