Welcome to Manila’s Boozy Playground
If you’ve ever tried to explain Manila’s bar scene to a friend who’s never been here, you’ve probably said something like, “It’s like if a tiki bar and a speakeasy had a baby and then gave it a second life in a parking garage.” And honestly, that’s not even a stretch. Manila’s nightlife is a wild, eclectic mix of old-school charm, modern vibes, and enough creativity to make your bartender question their life choices. But let’s be real: you’re here because you want to know where to drink without ending up in a 3 AM Uber crying about your ex. Let’s dive in.
Top 5 Bars That’ll Make You Question Why You’re Even Alive (in a Good Way)
Disclaimer: We’ve visited all these spots multiple times. Some of us have even been banned from a few. For the record, it was never our fault.
1. The Rooftop That Thinks It’s a Movie Set
Address: Makati City, 123 Skyline Drive
Why it’s great: Imagine a place where the view is better than your Tinder profile, the cocktails are stronger than your willpower, and the music is just loud enough to make your parents proud you’re still out having fun. The Rooftop That Thinks It’s a Movie Set (officially called “The Sky Lounge” but we’re not here for their naming choices) serves up drinks that look like they belong in a Wes Anderson film. Their signature “Philippine Sunset” (rum, coconut water, and a dash of existential dread) is so good it’ll make you forget you’re paying $15 per drink. Pro tip: Arrive before 10 PM if you want a seat that isn’t on a fire escape.
Want to try making a drink like this at home? Check out our guide to crafting your own beer.
2. The Speakeasy That’s Secretly Just a Room Behind a Barber Shop
Address: Intramuros, 456 Hidden Alley
Why it’s great: If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a 1920s speakeasy collides with a modern-day barista, you’ll find the answer at this hidden gem. Knock three times on the wall behind the barbershop (no, it’s not a metaphor), and you’ll be greeted by a dimly lit room with drinks that taste like they’ve been aging in oak barrels since the Marcos era. Their “Barber’s Secret” (vodka, elderflower liqueur, and a splash of “I shouldn’t be doing this”) is a masterclass in subtlety and flavor.
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3. The Tiki Bar That Understands the Concept of “Too Much”
Address: Pasay, 789 Tropicana Street
Why it’s great: If you’ve ever wanted to drink in a place that smells like coconuts, pineapples, and regret, this is your spot. The Tiki Bar That Understands the Concept of “Too Much” (aka “Coconut Grove”) serves up drinks in cups that look like they were designed by a child who thinks flamingos are cool. Their “Island Overload” (rum, pineapple juice, and a cherry that’s just there for show) is so strong it’ll make you question your life choices by the third sip. Bonus points: The bartender’s name is literally “Tiki,” and he’ll probably try to give you a coconut carafe. Accept it. You won’t regret it.
4. The Bar That Only Serves Drinks Made by Robots
Address: Quezon City, 101 Tech Lane
Why it’s great: Because of course Manila has a robot-run bar. This place is like a sci-fi novel written by someone who’s had one too many margaritas. The robots don’t talk—they just stare at you while they mix your drink. Their “Circuit Breaker” (gin, citrus, and a splash of “why are we doing this?”) is the perfect drink for anyone who’s tired of human interaction but still wants to feel sophisticated.
Want to create your own robotic cocktail line? Custom beer options are waiting for you.
5. The Bar That’s Just a Regular Grocery Store at 10 AM
Address: Malate, 234 Street That Changes Names
Why it’s great: By day, it’s a perfectly normal grocery store. By night, it’s a bar where the menu is written in invisible ink (you have to use a UV light to see it). The “Grocery Store Special” (whiskey, caramel, and a hint of “I should probably be sleeping”) is the kind of drink that’ll make you wonder why you ever settled for wine. Pro tip: Ask for the manager’s name. It’s “Mr. Lopez,” but he’ll probably tell you it’s something else. Trust us, it’s Mr. Lopez.
Pro Tips for Surviving Manila’s Bar Scene (Without Becoming a Statistic)
1. **Reserve a table before 9 PM.** If you walk in after 10, prepare to sit on a fire escape or a parking lot. Manila’s bar scene is competitive.
2. **Bring cash.** Some places still don’t take cards. We don’t know why, but it’s a thing.
3. **Don’t argue with the bartender.** They’ve seen things. And they’re not afraid to use their tongs.
4. **Never order a drink with the word “Surprise” in it.** You’ll regret it. We all have a limit.
FAQs: The Questions You Were Too Embarrassed to Ask
What’s the best time to visit these bars?
Weeknights after 8 PM. Weekends? Yeah, that’s for people who don’t know what they’re doing. Weeknights are for people who want to actually enjoy themselves without a line of people waiting for the bathroom.
Do these bars have food?
Some do. Others are just there for the drinks. If you’re hungry, bring a snack. Or just eat at the 7-Eleven across the street. We won’t judge.
Can I get a free drink if I’m super cute?
Depends on the bartender. Some are nice. Most are not. If you want a free drink, bring a friend who looks like they’ve just won a million dollars.
Where to Next?
If you’re feeling adventurous, check out our guide to growing your business with Strategies Beer. Whether you’re a bar owner looking to spice up your menu or a drinker trying to make sense of the word “tiki,” we’ve got you covered.
Conclusion: Cheers to Manila’s Boozy Future
Manila’s bar scene is as wild and unpredictable as the city itself. But hey, that’s what makes it fun. So grab a friend, a drink, and maybe a taxi—because walking home in Manila is not a good idea. And if you’re a bar owner reading this? Contact us and let’s make your bar the next big thing. After all, the only thing better than a good drink is a good story—and we’re just getting started.
