10 restaurants that say ‘I Love You’

S o you’ve got the flowers. You’re ready with the gifts. The sweet words and thoughtful gestures, you’ve prepared and practiced. The only thing that’s missing — assuming you’re not just treating yourself — is that perfect venue. From the quiet, hidden gems to the adventurous, once-in-a-lifetime treats, from classic haunts to quirky joints, leading restaurant discovery website and mobile app Zomato shows you some of its top User picks, from its Romantic Collections and Valentine’s Day Specials.

Browse through Zomato’s Collections, which are based on User traffic and popularity, on www.zomato.com.

Café Ysabel 455 P. Guevarra Street, Addition Hills, San Juan City (02) 246 9069 ext. 114 Zomato Users’ Rating: 3.8

Known for its Spanish degustation menu, Café Ysabel has long been a favorite spot among young ones and the young once, who bask in the nostalgic feel of the interiors. With exceptional and courteous service, this romantic spot keeps their customer base coming back for a gastronomic experience — and their wine list and cocktails are exemplary, too.

Antonio’s Purok 138, Neogan, Tagaytay City (02) 246 9069 ext. 790 Zomato Users’ Rating: 4.9

If the crowds and Manila traffic just won’t cut it for you this Valentine’s Day, there’s no better destination than the famed Antonio’s in breezy Tagaytay. The enchantment never ends — from the scenic trip, to the service that almost spoils guests, the trappings of fine dining, and the topclass gastronomic delights in a tranquil setting — so you’re sure to bewitch your dinner date, no matter what the cost is.

Poco Deli 21 East Capitol Drive, Kapitolyo, Pasig City (02) 246 9069 ext. 446 Zomato Users’ Rating: 4.1

Despite enjoying a cult status in the crazy Kapitolyo food scene, Poco Deli has still remained quaint (being one of the first restaurants in the area) and simple, and still pays the same perfectionist attention to their food. Notable for their homemade and artisanal sausages and cakes, and their wine selection, diners enjoy the small, cozy, and private layout as the perfect frame for gourmet euphoria. It’s a recommended hot limited ticket this Valentine’s Day, because here, impeccable doesn’t mean expensive.

La Grotta Cucina Italiana G/F Angelus Plaza Building, 104 VA Rufino Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City (02) 246 9069 ext. 383 Zomato Users’ Rating: 3.8

Still don’t have enough money for a grand Eurotrip with your SO? Hidden along the streets of Makati is an authentic Italian place — no sweet, cheap spaghetti here — is La Grotta Cucina Italiana, which has actually been alive and (silently) kickin’ for over a decade. Inside its intriguing stone façade is a comfortable, legit Italian experience — from the music to the food. Now that’s a much more affordable alternative, with the same romantic experience. Check out their special menu prepared for Valentine’s Day.

The Nest Vivere Hotel, 5102 Bridgeway Avenue corner Asean Drive, Filinvest City, Muntinlupa City (02) 246 9069 ext. 181 Zomato Users’ Rating: 4.2

A good way to impress your date would be to bask them in luxury and make them fall into your arms, awestruck by a captivating view of the city. Located on the 31st floor of the Vivere Hotel, The Nest offers a variety of cuisines perfect for the picky eaters. The best part about hotel dining is the world-class service to spoil you and your date, maybe so you don’t have to do it yourself.

Vask Modern Tapas 5/F, Clipp Center, 11th Avenue corner 39th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig (02) 217 6563 Zomato Users’ Rating: 4.5

Modern and artistic: two words that not only describe Vask’s interiors, but are also brought to life in each plate. We know it’s hard to commit to just one dish, so Vask’s vast array of tapas are perfect for you and your date as you go on a tasting trip of Spain’s culinary cornerstone. They separate their dishes into modern and traditional fare and their signature cocktails are sure to loosen you up as you get ready for romance, with a great view of BGC.

Hooch G/F, V Corporate Center, 125 L. P. Leviste Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City (02) 246 9069 ext. 899 Zomato Users’ Rating: 3.5

A unique cocktail bar for a unique person. Hooch is a chic lounge that serves some of the most creative cocktail concoctions we’ve seen. Just like how their cocktails are a hodgepodge of ingredients from all over, their food also reflects a worldly vibe. If your date usually has a hard time picking out a drink, Hooch’s awesome menu doesn’t just list ingredients, but includes dreamy descriptions to help one decide.

The 6th Pool Bar & Lounge

Novotel Manila Araneta Center, General Aguinaldo Avenue, Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City (02) 246 9069 ext. 511 Zomato Users’ Rating: Newly opened Neil’s Kitchen

Westgate Center, Filinvest City, Muntinlupa (02) 246 9069 ext. 745 Zomato Users’ Rating: 4.6

If your date is the fairly simple, laidback, homey type, Neil’s Kitchen is sure to be a huge hit. Their modern take on classic Filipino dishes takes your tastebuds back in time — or back to the future. It’s a surefire way to impress. The exquisite, quirky interiors make it a must-see place — maybe your peg for your future home?

A lot of young couples meet at clubs, so we’re guessing a romantic date at a brand spankin’ new pool club up north would be their perfect date place. At the newly opened Novotel in Araneta Center, which is quite possibly the most luxurious hotel in the northern Metro, the 6th Pool Bar and Lounge offers a posh atmosphere, with crisp and clean décor that perfectly highlights their gourmet food.

Ninyo Fusion Cuisine & Wine Lounge 66 Esteban Abada Street, Loyola Heights, Quezon City (02) 426 0301 Zomato Users’ Rating: 4.2

If you’re a noob at romantic décor, Ninyo’s got it all covered: their dining setup already includes the candles and rose petals. One of Katipunan’s best-kept secrets allows lovers to keep their musings on the down low in its intimate layout, where couples may dine al fresco at the gazebo. Their degustation menu is also light yet packed with flavor, so you don’t leave feeling heavy and sleepy. Extra clingy ones can even choose to write their names on a lock and throw away the key, a la Paris.

The Exit Corinthian Plaza, 121 Paseo De Roxas, Legaspi Village, Makati City (02) 551 1283 Zomato Users’ Rating: 4.0

There’s no better way to cap off a romantic evening than having relaxing drinks in an intimate, posh yet laidback speakeasy where you can continue cool conversations in a cozy atmosphere. With no loud music or live bands and dimmed lights, The Exit may be a bit hard to find, but it’s worth the little trip and the little extra cash for signature drinks.