Wine and romance – these are two things often associated with each other. With February and Valentine’s Day coming just around the corner, we’re sure people are starting to look for gifts to give to their significant other and for restaurants to dine at for a date. However, with so many new restaurant concepts popping up left and right (especially since the Philippines and Metro Manila have opened up after the pandemic), it can get overwhelming to decide.

You have to take into consideration the ambiance, the food they serve, and of course, the wine selection offered. This is why we’ve done the legwork: Here’s our list of restaurants with the best wine lists in Metro Manila:

Tatatito - Legazpi Village, Makati

An A+ choice for amazing Filipino food, Tatatito is the type of restaurant to bring you comfort both through its cuisine and interiors. With large glass windows and a modern tropical design, a dining experience at Tatatito is sure to make you feel right at home and take the tension off a date. Much like the overall vibe of the restaurant, its food is not far off. Try their Sinigang sa Miso Salmon, which is slow-cooked to perfection and goes well with the Los Espinos Sauvignon Blanc available on their menu! This Sauvignon Blanc and Sinigang pairing is the duo perfect for bringing some kilig to the table, with the mouth-watering high acidity that balances the pairing out.

Penthouse 8747 - Salcedo Village, Makati

For something more classic and chic, Penthouse 8747 offers an array of food choices from steaks and pasta to seafood and everything in-between. Overlooking the Makati skyline, this rooftop lounge is an escape from the busy city with its Art Deco-inspired interiors and fantastic drinks. A Winery.ph must-try are their Penthouse Crab Cakes paired with a nice bottle of Chrismont Prosecco to start off your dinner. Split them between you and your special someone and you’ll definitely be starting the night on a high note!

La Picara - One Bonifacio, Taguig

Bonifacio Global City (BGC) is a hotspot for great food and drinks – even better if you get a table at La Picara, located in One Bonifacio. A modern taste of Spanish cuisine in Manila, La Picara serves up tropical flare through its lush interiors. Add that to its intimate, warm ambiance, and it’s a recipe for a perfect date. Their choices of tapas and mains also do not disappoint. Try the Pluma Iberica Paella with a bottle of their Quetzal Reserva –  this Alentejo wine cuts through all the juicy fat that is quintessential to the dish and brings out all the pork’s flavors! Truly a match made in heaven.

Metiz - Karrivin Plaza, Makati

If you’re looking for a real gastronomic experience, the seven-course tasting menu at Metiz might just take the crown. They take Filipino food to the next level, from pan-fried lettuce to a lumpiang ubod dessert that don’t fail to surprise the palate. Found in a quiet corner along Chino Roces, the ambiance at Metiz is a reflection of the food they offer: an elevated take on our cultural heritage. What doesn’t come as a surprise though, is their wine list – nothing less to expect from a place that thoughtfully invents new dishes and menus over time. Another Winery.ph favorite, try to get a bottle of their Delinquente or VHS to match the flavor profile of the dishes served in the tasting course.

Lusso - Greenbelt, Makati

Looking for something more sit-down and quiet but with just as much care for food? LUSSO by esteemed Chef Margarita Forés might just be the restaurant for you. Offering luxe Italian cuisine, this restaurant offers sophisticated meals that are undeniably gourmet – a true representation of Forés’ culinary skill. The openness of their restaurant gives off an elegant feel that compliments the curated menu. If you end up getting a table here, be sure to try Lusso's demi-pound burger, a gem of a sandwich featuring an Angus patty with a generous block of Foie Gras in the middle. Pair this with a bottle of Moet & Chandon Brut Champagne – indulgent and romantic, you’re sure to have a great dining experience!

BONUS: We Should Date Our Friends Too!

Wantusawa - Poblacion, Makati

Emerging as another hot spot for great food and great drinks, Poblacion is definitely an area you and your friends can have a quick dinner before drinking and dancing the night away. Tucked away in the relatively quiet side of Poblacion, Wantusawa is committed to elevating your perspective on local oysters. The cozy and bright interior of Wantusawa is a refreshing contrast to the rich and delicate preparation of their oysters. Whether fresh, grilled, or baked, Wantusawa’s oysters are sure to do great with a bottle (or glass) of the Riesling available on their menu. The acidity, steeliness, and minerality of the wine all work together to enhance each and every oyster that you order. It doesn’t matter the size of your group: we’re sure Wantusawa will be a fit for a quick dinner with friends this Valentine’s Day.

Seoul Sky - Eastwood, Pasig

For large groups looking for a place with a city skyline view, look no further: Seoul Sky 100 might just be the place for you. This revolving restaurant sits 33 floors above ground level and gives you a 360-degree view of Quezon City. If the view isn’t enough, they also serve some of the most authentic Korean dishes you can get in the area. From Japchae to Budae-Jjigae, your group is promised to have their fill of Korean cuisine. But what stands out the most are their fresh, high-quality KBBQ options that would go perfectly with a bottle of their Castillo Del Moro Tempranillo Syrah. Not only will the wine be a welcomed taste to the palate after all the meat but the spiciness of the Tempranillo will also compliment the heat of all the other dishes you get!

So whether you’re taking out your significant other or your friends this Valentine’s day, one thing is for sure – food and wine pair well together much like the relationship you have with the important people in your life. After all, at the end of the day, it’s the time spent with them that makes life worthwhile. It doesn’t have to be a fancy meal out nor does it have to be on just one specific day of the year, you can express your love to the people you care about, year-round. You can share a bottle of wine with them any day at any time with 2,000+ wine choices available on the Winery.ph website!