Top 10 Restaurants for a Valentine’s Date to Remember

5 Julieta Circle, Horshoe Village, Quezon City<br />(02)724-5211, (02) 722-2185<br /><a target="_blank" title="http://www.lemuria.com.ph/Lemuria/" href="http://www.lemuria.com.ph/Lemuria/">www.lemuria.com.ph</a> <br /><br />Nestled comfortably inside a residential area, this restaurant is a marvel to the senses. Rustic, French-Mediterranean inspired interiors will whisk you and your date away to another world for an evening, with a baffling selection of wine to pair with fine European cuisine, leading your palate all the way up to its sweet offerings to cap the night.  <br /><br /><em>Photo from <a target="_blank" title="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chocolatemonster/174348623/" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chocolatemonster/174348623/">flickr.com</a></em> (Poached Pear with Pistachio Cream)<br /><br />

20 Jupiter Street<br />Makati City<br />(02)896-3289<br /><br />Just when you though Jupiter Street in Makati had ran out of surprises comes this sleeper hit of a restaurant. Fashionably contemporary without losing one bit of class is this authentic Portugese venue, and probably the only one in the Metro. Owned and operated by a gracious couple and proud new parents who validate the need for a couple to bond and take a little escape from the kids; Valentine’s in particular. Defining this chic hideaway is their Peri-Peri Chicken, a must try as you might find yet another love in this venue.<br /><br />

G/F Unit 1B L.P. Leviste Corner Sedeno Streets<br />Makati City<br />(02)843-4075<br /><br />High ceilings, a contemporary design with a well balanced ambiance that is a little like home is what gives this place its overall appeal. It’s a simple yet elegant place to dine, a refreshing treat for couples that want great food without too much to look at. Receiving numerous awards for their French and Italian cuisine, the Grilled Blue Marlin Pesto is a must try.  <br /><em><br />Photo by JJ Yulo for <a target="_blank" title="http://www.spot.ph/blog/47150/apartment-1b-revisited" href="http://www.spot.ph/blog/47150/apartment-1b-revisited">spot.ph</a></em> <br /><br />

750 Florentino Torres, Sta. Cruz Manila<br />(02)734-1160<br /><br />Arguably the oldest dining establishment in Metro Manila, Ambos Mundos, which translates into “two worlds” is as it is. I’m quite positive you, or even your parents were not able to enjoy its sumptuous selections in 1888. Now, it’s evolved into a haven for the more adventurous couple, as low prices don’t necessarily mean you’re on a “cheap date”. The allure of the old world beckons you into it’s simple interiors. Those who value the absolute oxymoron “modern nostalgia” are most welcome. An ecclectic mix of Filipino, Spanish and Chinese cuisine await you.  As well as “Dagul”, the adorable guard wild boar at the entrance.<br /><em><br />Photo from <a target="_blank" title="http://www.spot.ph/top-list/46464/top-10-oldest-restaurants-in-manila/5" href="http://www.spot.ph/top-list/46464/top-10-oldest-restaurants-in-manila/5">spot.ph</a></em> <br /><br />

Barangay Buck Estate<br />Alfonso, Cavite (Border Tagaytay)<br />0917-532-9097<br /><a target="_blank" title="http://www.sonyasgarden.com/" href="http://www.sonyasgarden.com/">www.sonyasgarden.com </a> <br /><br />One can not imagine how a place as sublimely beautiful as this can fail to captivate even the most stone-hearted. Its tranquil interiors are a gentle reflection of its lush garden backdrop.  A light drive is well worth it, as the ethereal surroundings lull you and your spouse or partner into what just might be paradise for those in love. The place also offers a bed and breakfast for some to make the most out of the Valentine’s experience. And did I mention the fresh Filipino and European offerings are a gratifying pleasure?<br /><em><br />Photo from <a target="_blank" title="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14150482@N02/2431201766 " href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14150482@N02/2431201766">flickr.com</a></em><br /><br />

2 United Street corner West Capitol Street<br />Barangay Kapitolyo, Pasig City<br />(02)632-0357<br /><br />A very lightly psychedelic take on old Filipino décor, coupled, or rather tripled with creative odds and ends from our diverse heritage (including Coca-Cola tray décor lining the walls!).  A definitive classic, and an ideal place for those seeking a more jovial way to celebrate the day of hearts.  Its endearing Filipino cuisine will surely enchant the couple seeking a break from the usual date venues.  This one is sure to bring back rousing, affectionate memories that allow for this day to be celebrated with much merriment.<br /><br />

Cubao Expo, Gen. Romeo Ave<br />Cubao, Quezon City<br />(02)913-2550<br /><br />Noted for receiving a #5 rank in the popular Lonely Planet series is this little piece of Italy right in the middle of busy Cubao. Upon entering, the surroundings, simple tables with artful photo memorabilia pegged on the walls lend you and your date a bit of the culture. Owned by an amiable Italian-Filipino couple, it boasts of the usual fare, plus pizzas nonpareil. The waiters are even said to speak Italian. Bellini’s? Bellisimo!<br /><em><br />Photo from <a title="http://www.spot.ph/featured/32658/user-review-of-the-week-bellinis" target="_blank" href="http://www.spot.ph/featured/32658/user-review-of-the-week-bellinis">spot.ph</a></em> <br /><br />

Sunnette Tower Corner Makati Avenue and Durban Street<br />Makati City<br />(02)897-5179<br /><br />Look no further when searching for a total Persian experience.  And I’m not just talking about the legit, sumptuous menu of Indian, Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean delights.  It’s as if you and your date are dining in a bit of a fantasy world, where Aladdin and his magic carpet just might float right by you.  A definite green light if you want your Valentine’s celebrated with amorous dining flair.<br /><br />

6752 Ayala Avenue Corner Makati Avenue<br />Makati City<br />(02)750-1557<br /><a title="http://www.salarestaurant.com/" target="_blank" href="http://www.salarestaurant.com/">www.salarestaurant.com</a> <br /><br />Conveniently located near Greenbelt 3 is this New York-inspired restaurant, bursting with class.  The menu includes skillful creations by renowned Scottish chef Colin McKay, bringing to your table works of gastronomical European art complimented by an elegant wine list. For couples who want a little more privacy, and plenty of room for conversation, this is where to be.<br /><em><br />Photo from <a title="http://www.salarestaurant.com/find_us/index.html" target="_blank" href="http://www.salarestaurant.com/find_us/index.html">www.salarestaurant.com</a></em> <br /><br />

26 N. Domingo, Cubao QC. (Between Gilmore and Broadway Avenue)<br />(02)487-7211<br /><br />A relatively new place in the Metro providing the Valentine’s couple a wide selection of intercontinental and French fusion dishes is this avant-garde locale with simple yet daringly smart interiors to complement a stylish menu. Comfortable dining for 26 persons with a private function room for eight makes this another ideal place for a quiet rendezvous. A diverse wine and craft beer selection make excellent pairings for their lavish dishes.  An intriguing fact is that the menu changes weekly, something that may prompt a return visit not long after.<br /><em><br />Photo from <a title="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Epiphany-Restaurant/167170346638817#!/photo.php?fbid=10150346016465414&set=o.167170346638817&pid=16169771&id=860240413" target="_blank" href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Epiphany-Restaurant/167170346638817#!/photo.php?fbid=10150346016465414&set=o.167170346638817&pid=16169771&id=860240413">www.facebook.com/pages/Epiphany-Restaurant</a></em><br /><br />