8 First Date-Worthy Restaurants and Cafes That Will Make a Great Impression
Romance and great food always make a perfect combo
by Edgardo Toledo | May 31, 2022
So you met someone, and things are going well between the two of you. You feel over the moon whenever you are greeted by their sweet messages or cute selfies. Surely, you are both excited to meet in person. The first date is usually a little nerve-wracking, but having a beautiful location as a backdrop can help break the ice. Today, we’ve listed restaurants and cafes for your first date with your special someone to help make a good first impression.
Art Sector Gallery and Chimney Cafe 360
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The beauty of art and nature find its spot in Art Sector Gallery and Chimney Cafe 360. The five-floor establishment is pristine and lets you admire the picture-perfect view of Laguna Lake, Sierra Madre Mountains, and Pililla Windmills on the roof deck. Imagine you and your date having the best time, talking about almost everything while enjoying some of their delicious dishes here like porchetta, roasted chicken, and pesto pasta.
Location: Lot 18, Block 178, Eastridge Executive Village, Tayuman, Binangonan, Rizal
Kainan Sa Balsa
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You don’t need to travel that far to feel the vibes of dining on a body of water. Kainan Sa Balsa is only a few hours from Metro Manila, with more than 20 bamboo cottages resting on a fishing pond. Enjoy the freshest seafood and vegetables with your potential SO under the bright cerulean skies. But if you want a more romantic atmosphere, go here in the afternoon to catch the sun dipping down while eating.
Location: 143 Evangelista Street, Barangay Banalo, Bacoor, Cavite
Rustic Mornings by Isabelo
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At a glance, you can instantly feel the warmth and coolness radiated by Rustic Mornings by Isabelo. The brunch restaurant compares to a very laid-back country home, thanks to the lush greens adorning the whole place. They have outdoor seating options and offer brunch specialties like pancakes, waffles, and French toast.
Location: #11 Isabelo Mendoza St., San Roque, Marikina City, Metro Manila
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Filling Station Bar And Cafe
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You can’t overlook this diner in Poblacion because of its eye-catching and colorful American-themed decor. Filling Station Bar And Cafe transports you back to the ’50s, which makes you feel donning coordinated retro outfits with your SO seems fitting. Every spot of this cafe is pleading for pictures, so don’t leave without capturing your sweet moments together.
Location: P Burgos, Brgy. Poblacion, Makati, Metro Manila
Lawa Café
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The fact you’d get an unobstructed view of Taal Volcano makes Lawa Café perfect for romantic dates. Take them by the wooden swing and enjoy the breathtaking scenery with a warm cup of coffee. Simple moments like these make you realize that a budding romance doesn’t need to break your wallet in half.
Location: Maharlika West, Tagaytay City, Cavite
Gubat
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Metro Manila is one busy jungle where it can be challenging to find a place to have a proper conversation and some fresh air. Luckily, there are still restaurants like Gubat that exist. The hut-like structure, wooden tables, and plants sprawled everywhere give off a rustic charm. Classic Filipino dishes are served in fresh banana leaves with no utensils, so be prepared to eat with your bare hands.
Location: Bonsai Society, President Carlos P. Garcia Ave, Diliman, Quezon City, Metro Manila
Grand Café 1919
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The building of Grand Café 1919 in the heart of Binondo used to be the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, the country’s oldest foreign bank. Couples will love the restaurant’s neoclassical facade combined with photos of old Manila and a high ceiling, giving it an airy, upscale look. Everything here looks so pristine, and the food prices are reasonable.
Location: 117 Juan Luna Street, Binondo, Manila
Wings N’ Grill Garden
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A hearty meal under the sun awaits couples in Wings N’ Grill Garden. Lovebirds have a choice to enjoy their meal while sitting on the ground or by the wooden tables. Cozy pillows and mats emphasize the restaurant’s boho style, with cute fairy lights that light up the whole space at night.
Location: # 68 Ipil St. Marikina Height, Marikina City, Metro Manila (in front of Holy Trinity School)
Do you know any other romantic dating spots?