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Brunch like a Tita of Manila
Philippines
The Titas (literally means “aunt”) of Manila are making a great comeback on the Internet as seen in the viral videos of Filipino vlogger Mark “Macoy Dubs” Averilla. Just in case you haven’t been online recently, Aunt Julie—a character akin to Nigel Ng’s Uncle Roger—has raked in likes and praises on social media. Veering away from the usual Filipino aunt you see at family parties, Aunt Julie is a well-heeled, progressive mother who supports her gay son and encourages netizens to vote. She’s the aunt you’d want to have in your life and share glamorous brunches with, so we’ve scoured the best places where you’ll most likely stumble upon the famed exclusive girls’ school alumna.
Updated 2 years ago
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Known as the OG hangout of Titas and Titas-at-heart, ask any of them for a catch up and you’ll probably find yourself seating at this homey cafe. Established in 2006, founder Mary Grace Dimacali took her flair for creating homemade pastries and cakes and built her namesake empire in Metro Manila. Must-orders on the menu are their signature Ensayamada and Cheese Rolls, which guarantees a just-like-home comfort in every bite.
- +63 2 8856 0858
131 McKinley Pkwy, Taguig, Metro Manila, Philippines
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Garden-inspired interiors and rustic wood furniture make this San Juan-based bistro a perfect place to spend a slow weekend—the only way to go if you’re updating your tita on the nitty-gritty of your recent love affair! The food is as appealing and satisfying as the vibe suggests, with plenty of exciting twists on much-loved classics. Don’t leave without trying out their Ube Champorado filled with generous toppings of dilis (dried anchovies) and yema (sweet custard) sauce!
- +6323566900
Flossom Place, 187 North Averilla Street, Barangay Sta. Lucia, Greater San Juan, San Juan City, Metro Manila, Philippines
- https://www.facebook.com/flossomkitchencafe
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Whoever said breakfast was the most important meal of the day must have been a regular at Little Flour Cafe. Hot off the success of its big sister Wildflour, the cafe has quickly become a roaring hit. Among their specialties are the Beef Tapa and Binagoongan, along with dessert favorites such as Cassava Cake and Leche Flan. If you like your morning filled with a bit of Zumba energy then this is definitely the place to hit afterward.
- +63 2 8777 7383
Ground Floor, World Plaza 4th Avenue, corner 31st Street, Taguig, 1634 Metro Manila, Philippines
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Dine like a true tita at Chef Jessie situated in the high-end Rockwell neighborhood. The famed chef was famously handpicked as the official chef of Pope Francis during his 2015 visit to the Philippines. Here, she leads the pack in creating inventive dishes. Be sure to try their showstopping signature dishes such as the Pasta a la Jessie and Pan Fried Goose Liver Salad!
- +63 2 8890 6543
Amorsolo Dr, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines
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A trip to Satinka Naturals Bistro and Cafe can save you all the unnecessary prattles from your ever health-conscious Tita. With a menu that strikes just the right balance between cosy and nutritious — the cafe’s organic, MSG-free dishes include the likes of Greek-inspired platters and freshly baked Moussaka. Don’t forget to check their apothecary for wellness products sourced from the North — you’re not a certified Tita unless you’ve got ‘em essential oils!
- +63 917 420 2279
1137 Kamagong Street corner Pasong Tamo, Makati City, Philippines
- https://www.facebook.com/satinkanaturals
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Owner Philane Ponio has scouted inspiration from her Brooklyn trips to momentarily transport diners to New York. Perfect for the well-travelled tita, her epicurean delicacies will give you a taste of all the finest flavors you could possibly want. Order rounds of their standout Osso Buco and Chicken Periperi and you’ll see what we’re talking about!
- +63 2 7738 0085
319 Aguirre Ave, Parañaque, 1700 Metro Manila, Philippines
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Update your Instagram feed like a techy Tita and treat your taste buds at the same time with a hearty brunch at Le Petit Souffle. Forbes 30 under 30 awardee and acclaimed pastry chef Miko Aspiras curated the French and Japanese fusion menu of bold flavor combinations; the La Petit Souffle Bacon, Cream, and Egg Pasta hits just the right spot!
- +63 2 8886 3056
Century City Mall, Kalayaan Ave, Makati, 1210 Metro Manila, Philippines
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Head over to Marikina’s loveliest all-weather al fresco dining experience, the Rustic Mornings by Isabelo. What started as a family ancestral house was converted into a 120-seater restaurant suitable for gossiping Titas who love a good cup of tea! Don’t miss out on the heavenly combination of Original Buttermilk Pancakes and 3-Egg Cheese Omelettes on the all-day breakfast menu.
- +6326812461
11 Isabelo Mendoza Street, Santa Roque, Marikina City, Philippines
- http://www.rusticmornings.com/
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The Uptown Melt Grilled Cheesery goes above and beyond your high standard Tita expectations with its sandwiches slathered in melted cheese, the perfect mood booster after a stressful work week. Recognized as the 3rd Best Sandwich in Asia, their dishes are prepared through a gourmet grilled cheesery, the first of its kind in the country! Menu highlights are their Monte Cristo and Dulce Delecheese.
- +6328381653
The Soderno, Molito Lifestyle Center, Alabang, Muntinlupa, Metro Manila, Philippines
- https://www.facebook.com/pg/meltgrilledcheesery
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La Maripili’s modern interpretation of Spanish Brunch delights will captivate the fun-loving Titas of the South. Although particularly famed for their fine and delectable churros, their other concept recipes are equally as promising. Case-in-point: their Patatas Bravas is particularly unmissable, made of smoky chorizo drenched in their appetizing house brava sauce. Cap off with a cup of Dark Mocha, made with Davao-sourced chocolate for that bittersweet note!
- +63209055187422
Ground Floor, ATC Corporate Center, Alabang Town Center, Alabang Zapote Road, Alabang, Muntinlupa, Metro Manila, Philippines
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