LIST: Cafes and restaurants where you can take yourself on a date
It's Singles' Day! How are you celebrating yourself today?
Going on solo dates can be one of the therapeutic things to do. Not only do you get to unwind, but you also get to enjoy your own company without needing to wait for someone else's availability if you want to try new experiences.
If you're looking for must-try food spots that match the vibe you want, here are some recommendations—because being alone is not always lonely.
Yakiniku Like
Craving some Japanese BBQ? You don't have to worry about bringing a group, as Yakiniku Like has tables for one. Dubbed the "first solo yakiniku dining in the Philippines," diners can enjoy a single smokeless grill with their sauces and spices.
Price starts at P199. Visit Yakiniku Like branches at SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, SM North Edsa, SM Jmall in Mandaue, Cebu, and SM Sta Rosa in Laguna.
ManMan Sai-Gon
If Vietnamese food is your vibe, try ManMan Sai-Gon in Poblacion, Makati. This charming Vietnamese restaurant offers an authentic taste of Pho, which has options for solo servings. There's also Saigon noodles, Bac-Xiu Coffee, egg coffee, and the ever-favorite bánh mì.
ManMan Sai-Gons is located at 4624 Molina St, Poblacion, Makati. It is open from 11:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. daily.
Common Room PH
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Common Room PH isn't just a place for arts and crafts—at their Mess Studio, not only do you get to enjoy food and coffee, but you can also entertain yourself with a fun upcycling activity for only P499 for a single craft. There is also the seat pass, which costs P299 for the whole day if you need a quiet time to work, inclusive of seats, shared tools, Wi-Fi, and a plug.
Otherwise, you can just pick a seat and grab a book or write your journals.
Check them out at the ground floor, The Atrium of Makati. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Patchimon Ookini
For the ultimate solo dining experience, like Japan's Ichiran-style, head over to Patchimon Ookini.
Every seat has its own booth, complete with condiments. The menu is presented on small cards, and you can simply tap the bell and hand over the card to place your order. A server will roll up the bamboo curtain in front of you to take and serve your meal—almost a zero-interaction experience, perfect for introverts.
Patchimon Ookini is located at SKY Plaza Building, 2F Ayala Ave, Legazpi Village, Makati City. It is open Monday to Friday, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Gourmet's Cafe
Book lovers can head over to Gourmet's Cafe in Malate. This quaint library-café offers a variety of snacks, from delectable cakes, pastas, pizzas, wraps, and more. Some drinks you can try are Ube Latte, Gourmet's signature coolers, and cocktails, among others. They also source their ingredients from Gourmet Farms, so you know the food is not only delicious, but excellent in freshness and quality.
Gourmet's Cafe is located on the ground floor of the Ramon Magsaysay Building, Roxas Blvd, Malate, Manila. It is open Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
