“Makati-maxxing” has been the latest buzzword on every chronically online Filipino’s lips.
It means exactly what you think it does—frequenting the business-savvy city enough to make it your day-to-day routine, shopping at artsy pop-ups every weekend, and memorizing the area’s routes and landmarks to cut down on the stress and hassle of working there.

Photo: Rodic’s Diner, Goto Monster
As the “Business Capital of the Philippines,” many deem Makati a melting pot of opportunities, cultures, and lifestyle trends. But once you step into these must-try food spots, you’ll learn that it’s so much more than that. San Antonio Village, for instance, prides itself on beloved eateries that weave sentimental stories into every plate. They’ve captured the hearts of customers from all walks of life, and it’s only a matter of time before they reach yours, too.
Whether you need a pick-me-up after a stressful day or a new tambayan area to explore with your loved ones, these San Antonio Village food spots offer diverse options and vibrant meals that don’t break the bank.
Goto Monster Comuna
View this post on Instagram
Goto Monster is the place to be for hearty and filling meals with a touch of comfort in every spoonful. You’ll feel right at home at this community-oriented eatery, with an extensive menu of local snacks, soup bowls, main dishes, street food, and desserts, also available at its multiple branches in Metro Manila.
Located at:
- Mezzanine Floor, Comuna Building, 238 Pablo Ocampo Extension, San Antonio Village, Makati City
Old Saigon
View this post on Instagram
Vietnamese cuisine takes center stage at Old Saigon, where every plate captures the country’s timeless flavors and festivities. From flavorful banh mi variations to tangy chicken-and-rice combos, you’ll be leaving with a happy tummy before you know it.
Located at:
- Linear Makati Tower 2, Mayapis Street, Corner Yakal, Makati City
8065 Bagnet
View this post on Instagram
A certain Pathy (with an H) may not be down for a delicious, piping-hot plate of bagnet, but you definitely will at this hole-in-the-wall restaurant. Enjoy savory, crispy pork belly served in various ways together with drinks and live music.
Located at:
- 8065 Estrella Street, San Antonio Village, Makati City
Rodic’s Diner
View this post on Instagram
Since 1949, Rodic’s Diner and its versatile menu have been certified staples among college students in the metro. After bringing smiles to Filipinos’ faces with its bestselling tapsilog, Rodic’s now offers burger steak meals for as low as ₱90, perfect for anyone saving up in the city.
Located at:
- H265+25G, Yakal, Makati City
Ling Nam Noodle Bar
View this post on Instagram
You’ll never run out of hearty meals to try at Ling Nam Noodle Bar, which showcases Binondo’s timeless culture on every plate. Experience Chinatown’s dynamic charm for as low as ₱99 with Ling Nam’s extensive lineup of noodle soup, congee, and dim sum bowls.
Located at:
- The Grid Co-Living, Yakal Street, Corner Lumbayao, San Antonio Village, Makati City
Mang Rudy’s Tuna Grill & Papaitan
View this post on Instagram
For years, Mang Rudy’s has successfully satisfied customers’ cravings with home-cooked meals that highlight the diversity of Filipino cuisine. Though they’re best known for their tuna inihaw and kinilaw, you can also choose from a wide variety of vegetable plates, sizzling dishes, and all-day breakfast options. You might even walk right into a live performance by your favorite local band!
Located at:
- 7483 Bagtikan Street, Makati City
Hom Thai Food
View this post on Instagram
Say Sawasdee Kha! to fresh Thai flavors at Hom, where international delicacies meet homegrown staples. Whether you’re in the mood for some pad thai “to die for” or beef stew that’s both rich and comforting, you’re always welcome to pull up a chair and dig in.
Located at:
- 135c Yakal Street, Makati City
Momojia
View this post on Instagram
On September 28, 2026, Momojia is bringing the beloved street food of Xi’an City, China, to the Philippines. You no longer have to travel far to try the establishment’s world-famous rougamo, its signature (and affordable) snack that spotlights freshly baked flatbread and slow-cooked pork belly.
Located at:
- Level 2, The Grid Co-Living, Yakal Street, San Antonio Village, Makati City
Samuk Manuk
View this post on Instagram
Looking for a casual dining spot powered by Singapore’s diverse dishes? You’ve come to the right place! Samuk Manuk offers a wide variety of “irritatingly good” food that’ll have you coming back for seconds. Its specialties include pulled pork bao and the Sinamuk Platter, featuring succulent meats and sauces best enjoyed with friends and family.
Located at:
- San Antonio Village, 9225 Dita, Makati City
Uncle Moe’s Shawarma Hub
View this post on Instagram
Rounding out our list is Uncle Moe’s, a go-to spot in San Antonio Village for kebabs, shawarma, hummus, and even Moroccan fish fillet. Their à la carte meals and ready-to-eat platters are packed with meaty goodness that you can also order online.
Located at:
- Unit GF2, D’Arcade Foodpark Building, 7433 Yakal Street, San Antonio Village, Makati City
ALSO READ: Nourishment on Every Plate: How Cross-Sector Partnerships Are Making Healthy Food Achievable for All
What are your go-to food spots in Makati? Sound off and share your picks with us in the comments below!
Do you have a story for the WhenInManila.com Team? Email us at wheninmanila@gmail.com or send us a direct message on WhenInManila.com’s Facebook Page. Interact with the team, join the WhenInManila.com community at WIM Squad, and join our Viber group to stay updated on the latest from the Philippines and beyond!
