Discover the best bars in Manila for a laid-back evening with friends by enjoying cocktails, jazz, and stunning views at these five must-visit spots.
Do you ever feel like drinking but at the same time not in the mood to dance and party? Well, you are not alone. There are nights wherein having good conversations with friends while sipping a cocktail or two just seems right. Also, the nights when you prefer to have a chill and relaxed experience while drinking out are more common than you think.
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Finding the best spots to enjoy the company of the people you are with while drinking is daunting. Usually, drinking is synonymous with crowded clubs, loud music, and strobe lights. However, there are drinking spots in Manila where you can unwind and relax. These five dinking spots are a must-visit for slow and relaxing nights.
Spiritual Treat
Hidden in the busy and loud streets of Poblacion is The Spirits Library. A bar with the aesthetics and vibes of a library—The Spirits Library is a must-visit whenever you’re in the area. Furthermore, you can enjoy their cocktails while listening to live jazz music. Furthermore, in celebration of Negroni Week, they have a special menu that centers around different forms and flavors of Negronis.
Negroni del Dottore from The Spirits Library / Photo via Instagram @thespiritslibrary
Panoramic Experience
Sip a tasteful cocktail while looking at the Makati skyline in Mistral. You can start your night as you watch the sunset turn the sky to hues of orange, yellow, and blue. Moreover, you can experiment with what drink you’re going to order with their wide array of flavors and cocktails.
Scenic view while drinking in Mistral / Photo via Instagram @mistral.rooftopbar
Best Kept Secret
Be transported back to the roaring 20s as you enter The Back Room. Located in Shangri-La The Fort, this bar promises an experience that you won’t forget. Furthermore, they have an extensive food and beverage menu that will quench your thirst for quality-crafted cocktails and fill your taste buds with amazing flavor.
Drinks and the ambiance in The Back Room / Photo via Instagram @backroomph
Modern Speakeasy
Bank Bar is a modern and classy take on a speakeasy. Named “One of the Most Intriguing Speakeasies in the World” by CNN, this speakeasy is worth visiting. Moreover, the overall vibe of the interior and the selection of cocktails and liquor blend well for a perfect chill night.
Mad Hatter Club and Gin and Tonic in Bank Bar / Photo via Instagram @bank.bar
Coffee + Alcohol
After a hectic and caffeine-powered day, you can visit the Curator for a nightcap. Arguably the best bar in the Philippines, The Curator has been on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars list for seven years: 2016-2024. The coffee and cocktails place currently ranks 33 in the Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024. Moreover, they have coffee and cocktail selections that will fit whatever you’re in the mood for.
Masterful creation of cocktails in The Curator / Photo via Instagram @thecurator_
Banner photo via Instagram @mistral.rooftopbar.
