Financial Blog

Setting up a dinner date can be expensive, especially if you plan and book the last minute. Planning the perfect date is a lot like making investments after all: the more time you put into research and preparation, the better your returns and the better deal you’ll get.

Alas, there are times you have no choice but to cram. (We are here to help you cram!)

The idea is to make it seem that you didn’t cram and to find a date spot that won’t break the bank. There are many restaurants out there you could take your date on a budget and still provide an unforgettable experience. This 2020, here are our picks for the top romantic date restaurants under P1,000 in BGC and Makati:

Agimat Foraging and Kitchen

P900 for two (approx.)

Agimat is not your typical Filipino bar and kitchen. This bar-kitchen has a dark and mystical ambiance inspired by agimat, a magical amulet used to ward off evil. They serve locally-produced cocktails and food that you both will surely love.

What sets it apart from other bars and restaurants is their ritual dance that is performed in every drink served, which involves a mixture of Filipino folk moves and beats. If you are for an unusual yet magical experience, don’t hesitate to visit Agimat.

• Must orders: Pata (P350) – Pork trotters braised in bugnay wine served with indigenous greens; Mollusco (P320) – uni emulsion, smoked mussels, grilled angel wings, and scallops served in a shell
• Address: Second Floor, 5972 Alfonso Corner Fermina Street, Poblacion, Makati City
• Hours: 6PM-10PM (Tues) | 6PM-2AM (Wed-Sat) | 6PM-12MN (Sun)
• Contact details: +63 917 890 4039

Le Petit Souffle

P1,000 for two (approx.)

Le Petit Souffle has been a long favorite date place because of its unique combination of west and east flavors and its well-designed interiors. The interior resembles a French cafe combined with a Japanese garden. If you both like comfort food and just want to relax, then this might be your cup of tea. Don’t forget to try Chef Miko’s signature desserts!

• Must-orders: Porc Bourguignon (P395) – pork leg braised with red wine served with garlic Japanese rice, mushrooms, bacon, and a sunny side up; Japanese Beef Curry Souffle (P550) – Savory US beef short plate with Japanese short-grain rice and curry sauce.
• Address: Third Floor, Century City Mall, Kalayaan Avenue, Poblacion, Makati City
• Hours: 11am-9pm (Mon-Thurs) | 10am-10pm (Fri-Sat) | 10am-10pm (Sun)
• Contact details: +63 2 886 3056

Bar Pintxos

P900 for two (approx.)

If you want to take your date to Europe, then you might want to pay Bar Pintxos a visit. Their signature, pintxos, are small snack tapas with delicious meats or seafood on top of bread which are very popular in the Basque country of Spain. These tasty pintxos are best partnered with a glass of Sangria or any wine of your choice, perfect for couples out there.

• Must-orders: Salmon Pintxo (P200) – Bread topped with salmon, goat cheese, truffle honey and caviar, Chopito Frito (P250) – deep-fried baby squid, Paella Cordero (P350) – Spanish rice with lamb and mushrooms
• Address: Ground Floor, Fairways Tower, 5th Avenue Cor. McKinley Road, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City
• Hours: 12PM – 12MN
• Contact details: (02) 810 1307

Borough

P1000 for two (approx.)

Perfect for a chill date, Borough is one of the coziest restaurants in the metro. Although small, this New York-inspired restaurant is the perfect place to eat comfort food. Known for its milk and cookies, this restaurant offers a wide variety of New York cuisine that both of you will surely love. So for those who are on a diet, beware!

• Must-orders: Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup (P320) – Brioche bread grilled cheese served with creamy tomato soup, Popcorn Calamari (P290) – popcorn crusted deep-fried squid served with extra popcorn and clarified chili butter, Mom’s Milk and Cookies (P250) – Three varieties of freshly baked cookies with an ice-cold bottle of milk.
• Address: U/G, C2, Bonifacio High Street Central, 7th Ave, Taguig
• Hours: 11AM-2AM (Mon) | 8AM-2AM (Tues-Sat) | 8AM-11PM (Sun)
• Contact details: 0966 400 1150

Sultan Mediterranean Grill

P800 for two (approx.)

Take your loved one to the Mediterranean with Sultan’s exotic yet flavorful dishes. A hidden gem located in the heart of Makati, this restaurant definitely catches your attention with its vibrant tile walls. From dips, grilled meats, and wraps, Sultan will surely leave the both of you craving for more.

• Must-orders: Baba Ghanouj (P125) – creamy roasted eggplant dip with olive oil and secret spices, Souvlaki Platter (P395) – Grilled beef kebab with bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes served with a side of fries.
• Address: UG9 Valero Plaza Condominium 124 San Augustin, Makati City
• Hours: 11AM-10PM
• Contact details: +63 2 894 5909