TOP PICKS: Where to Eat, Explore, Dine, Drink, and Stay in Makati

Urban centers where first-rate hotels like Eton Tower Makati are cradled definitely put you in the heart of the metropolis. But with the many places to explore in an urban center like Makati, it would be hard to decide exactly what to do and see, where to eat, drink, and dine, and where to retreat after a day of exploring.

Here are our top picks for places to try in Makati which will definitely give you the complete city experience.

DO

It doesn’t really matter if you’re a shopaholic or not, exploring the shopping centers in Makati is a city experience of its own. Found near Ayala avenue are a group of malls comprised of Greenbelt, Glorietta, Landmark, and SM.

All of these are connected to each other by bridges and walkways that make exploring a lot easier. Apart from that, each mall also caters to people of different tastes and backgrounds, so you are sure to find something you would like.

SEE

One of the great things about Makati is that despite the fact that it’s all about progress and innovation, it never forgets to pay homage to the Filipino culture and heritage. A small distance from the city’s main shopping centers, the Ayala Museum stands proud.

With its collection of artifacts, artworks, and other pieces that speak of the country’s rich history, this place will give you a glimpse of the foundations of the nation that we are now.

EAT

The whole Makati Central Business District is a melting pot of several food hubs and restaurants. But hopping from one restaurant to another could take so much time, which is why trying out food from Legazpi Sunday Market is our best recommendation.

In this weekend communal event, a portion of the Legazpi Park is transformed into a farmer’s market where the best restaurants in the city set up food stalls. Ease yourself of the hassle of going several places for food. In this community event, you get served the best meal options all in one place.

DRINK

Among the many places to visit in Makati, the district of Poblacion is known because of its numerous pubs and watering holes. Whether you’re into some wholesome drinking or if you want to waste the night away with an awesome time with friends, this district has a bar that would suit your liking.

One notable pub is called The Apartment wherein they have beds and other house fixtures making the whole place resemble an apartment. This provides customers a different nightlife experience wherein people can easily crash into the beds whenever they feel like they’ve had enough to drink.

STAY

Being one of the booming cities in Metro Manila, it’s no longer a surprise that you have a ton of options of where to stay in Makati. But if you would like to experience the ease of being near places, The Mini Suites Eton Tower Makati is the best option.

As the only hotel that is directly connected to elevated walkways, it makes it easier for you to get from one place to another. It also puts you within comfortable distance to the above-mentioned attractions, allowing you to get the fuller Makati experience without the transportation hassle.

How to Make the Most of a 24-hour Layover in Makati City

Let’s say you’re on a layover in Manila and you’ve booked a stay at The Mini Suites Eton Tower in Makati, what do you do with your extra time? While layovers provide you an opportunity to squeeze in a short side-trip in big cities, you sometimes end up being swamped with a ton of options for activities. Here’s a short list to help you make sure you spend more of your time actually enjoying Makati, and not wasting it all on deciding where to go.


1. IMMERSE IN CULTURE

Hit two birds with one stone by paying a visit to Ayala Museum. Connected to shopping complexes, this well-curated museum not only brings you closer to the center of the city, but also to the heart of Filipino culture. It features an extensive display of Philippine contemporary art and pre-colonial archaeological artifacts that are sure to give you a substantial knowledge about the country and its history.

2. QUAINT COFFEE HUBS


There are a lot of themed restaurants and coffee shops around Metro Manila, but being in Makati, you don’t really have to go far. Shops such as Mudpie Haven, Habitual Coffe, and Caffe Bene offer quaint places to just relax in the middle of the bustling city. Their contemporary interiors and premium coffees are definitely a breath of fresh air from the typical Starbucks-type coffee shop.

3. POCKETS OF GREEN


While Makati looks highly urbanized with its towering skyscrapers and busy streets, it doesn’t forget your need for a dose of nature and greenery. Scattered around the Central Business District are parks that allow you to be in the heart of the city while doing away with the unwanted heat and pollution. One of the most famous parks, the Ayala Triangle, also doubles as an events place in Makati where free performances are sometimes available. It also provides food options with a variety of restaurants within the park’s vicinity.


 4. AN ENERGETIC NIGHTLIFE


One of the things Makati is most known of is its vibrant scenes once the daylight retires. This city is peppered with a variety of options for a night out. Dine a-la Great Gatsby in the classy halls of The Penthouse 8747, or have a taste of Asian cuisine while partying at Buddha Bar. Really, the options are almost limitless. From clubs to pubs, laid-back jamming sessions to exhilarating parties, you will never run out of things to do in Makati at night.


 5. RETIRE IN FULL COMFORT


There’s no better way to cap off the day than a restful sleep. Get fully energized before you take on another long flight to your final destination and book a room in one of Makati’s favorite accommodations. While many options are available around the area, among the top choices for travelers is The Mini Suites Eton Tower Makati. Returning guests rave about its rooms’ neatness and affordability. Check their newly launched website for promos and packages.