Bar Pintxos is a hidden gem of a restaurant located behind a residential building in BGC. The cozy watering hole serves (you guessed it!) pintxos, which are small servings of Spanish tapas served on crispy bread. These small snacks are best enjoyed with a glass of Sangria or any wine of your choice.

Sultan is the type of restaurant you discover by accident -- a wonderful, wonderful accident. Located in the quiet back streets of Salcedo, the restaurant, with its pretty interiors, boasts an equally stunning menu of all your Mediterranean favorites. From the dips, the grilled meats, and wraps, you’ll have many reasons to keep coming back.

The moment you set foot in Greg & Sally, you will be compelled to take photos. The quaint al fresco restaurant was really made for dates, an escape from the more commercialized establishments. While the setting alone is worth the visit, you can’t miss out on their elevated versions of Pinoy dishes, which are not only delicious but affordable as well.

The Frazzled Cook has been around for quite awhile, but the hype hasn’t died (for good reason). It’s one of those restaurants worth braving the traffic for, because the moment you arrive all your road rage will fade away. The interiors are charming, like a quirky family home with mismatched furniture and stylish wall decor. And the menu, which consists of international dishes, will leave you frazzled in the best way possible.

If you’re the type of couple who can never decide where to eat, then this is your best bet. Though a food hall isn’t exactly the most romantic place, Hole in the Wall is an exception. Aside from top-notch food choices, the ambiance of the place is perfect for casual date nights -- mood lighting, great music, and an IG-worthy layout. They even have small nooks and comfortable couches for those looking for a little more privacy.

This French-Japanese food concept by chef Miko Paras has long been a favorite date place, not only for their unique take on the two powerhouse cuisines, but the interiors will always impress no matter how many times you’ve been. As you would imagine, the menu perfectly combines the best of east and west to create flavors you never knew existed.

A trip to Stacy’s will remind you of Sunday brunch, fluffy pancakes, thick milkshakes, and friendly servers in cute aprons, and all (and much more!). Take you date here for a picker-upper in the middle of a busy work week, thank us later.

Chef Cuit Kaufman takes comfort food to a whole ‘nother level as seen in Borough’s well-curated menu. He takes simple dishes that you would think anyone could make, and makes it 10 times better. Known for their (now closed) pub-like branch in Podium, their new and improved version in BGC boasts a sleek New York vibe that would make a great spot for dates.

“Romantic” mustn't be all about the frills and fancy service, sometimes delicious food and great music is all you need -- that’s what Drive-by is all about. The tiny taco shop is a bar, kitchen, and dining area all-in-one. Look for a seat at the bar and let the aroma of Mexican spices spark up the mood. Don’t let the simple set-up fool you, because once your date takes a bite of that taco, he/she will reward you later.

If you want to skip the typical restaurant and spice up date night, then head over to one of Poblacion’s newest additions. The trippy Agimat Foraging Bar and Kitchen is more than its impressive layout and decor. Here, you’ll taste some of the most interesting dishes and drinks you’ll ever try and the best thing? Everything’s locally sourced!

Avoid the rush and book your Valentines date at one of these romantic restaurants in Manila! Check out Explore for more travel and food inspiration.]]>