7. Bellini’s

Cubao Expo, General Romulo Avenue, Cubao, Quezon City | (02) 9132550
310 Shoe Avenue, Santo Nino, Marikina City | (02) 2345699, (02) 9987865
Facebook | Open everyday from 10am to 10pm
Budget for two – P1200

Bellini’s has been put on the spotlight for its cameo in One More Chance. Who can forget its distinct mural, serving as the background of Popoy and Basha’s famous “three-month-rule” argument? But more than this interesting feat, Bellini is a reliable source for affordable and delicious Italian food. Try their specialties—Gnocci Ragu con Funghi, Penne alla Daniele and Fettucine Tartufo Funghi con Prosciutto.

6. C’ Italian Dining

L’Ermitage Apartments, 115 L. P. Leviste Corner Toledo Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City
(02) 2469069 ext:866 | Facebook
Open everyday from 11am to 11pm
Budget for two – P1500

True foodies used to travel all the way to Angeles, Pampanga just to get a taste of Chef Chris Locher’s culinary expertise. Thankfully, C’ Italian Dining finally has a branch in Makati, so their famous panizza is more accessible. While panizza can now be seen in many Italian restaurants, the awesome concept of rolling thin pizza with arugula and alfalfa sprouts started in C’ Italian Dining.

It’s hard to name the best panizza variant, but the Millionario is simply delectable. Imagine a secret cheese sauce, infused with tomato paste and truffle oil, and then topped with shrimps and herbs.

5. Mona Lisa Ristorante

5F SM Aura Premier, C5 Road corner 26th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig | (02) 4036834
2F The Commerce Center, 1780 Commerce corner Filinvest Avenue, Filinvest City | (02) 5560708
Facebook | Budget for two – P1700

For quite a while, Mona Lisa was one of the best places to celebrate a special occasion in Alabang. Well, it still is, but now its success has branched out to the Fort. No matter the branch, you can expect quality ingredients, generous servings and warm service. Mona Lisa’s Italian owner is known to make the rounds, chat up customers about their experience and (if you’re lucky) even give out free Limoncello shots.
But even if you don’t catch the free liquor, just eating Mona Lisa’s food will make you a winner. Don’t miss out on their Mona Lisa Speciale Panizze, Grilled Salsicia Rigatoni Porcini and Cannoli.

4. Caruso Ristorante Italiano

210 Nicanor Garcia Street, Bel-Air, Makati City
(02) 8952451, 09175812832 | Facebook
Open everyday from 11:30 am to 2:30pm then 6pm to 11pm
Budget for two – P2500

When an Italian restaurant is always filled with Italian expats, you know the place serves food that brings these customers back home (even for just a while). This is the case for Caruso, an Italian culinary gem in Bel-Air, Makati. That comes as no surprise as Caruso is owned by Italian men—Emilio Mina and Dario Gardini. Try it on your next date night, and pretend you’ve gone to Italy for dinner. Just some must-tries are the Margherita with Bufala Cheese Pizza, Lasagna All Emiliana and Panna Cotta.

3. Balducci Ristorante & Deli

GF Serendra, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City
(02) 8560676, (02) 8560865 | Facebook | Website
Open everyday from 11am to 10:30pm
Budget for two – P2000

Balducci is a warm and rustic restaurant that specializes in authentic Tuscan food. They focus on traditional Italian cuisine, which means bringing out the flavors of fresh, local and premium ingredients. Being a deli as well, Balducci offers a wide range of cold cuts and cheeses, perfect for takeout. But as you wine and dine in, try their simple yet well-executed dishes like the Canneloni Della Casa and Tortello d’ Anatra al Porfumo di Tartufo.
The names of the dishes can be quite long (aka intimidating), so don’t be afraid to ask the very knowledgeable waiters.