The Podium, located in the heart of Ortigas Center in Metro Manila, has become a popular destination for food lovers seeking quality dining experiences. With its upscale ambiance and thoughtfully curated mix of local and international cuisine, the mall features some of the best restaurants in the area. Whether you’re craving Asian flavors, Western comfort food, or gourmet desserts, the Podium offers a wide variety of choices for every palate. In this guide, we’ll explore the best restaurants in Podium Mall that stand out for their exceptional dishes, cozy interiors, and consistent customer satisfaction.
Top Restaurants to Try in The Podium
Wildflour Café + Bakery
Wildflour Café + Bakery is a well-known establishment that delivers a perfect blend of casual dining and gourmet quality. It’s one of the best restaurants in the Podium for brunch, coffee dates, or even business lunches. Their menu is a mix of American and European-inspired dishes made with premium ingredients. Crowd favorites include their croissants, kimchi fried rice, and the Wildflour breakfast plate.
Tong Yang Shabu Shabu and Grill
For those who enjoy interactive dining experiences, Tong Yang is a must-visit. It offers an all-you-can-eat shabu-shabu and grill buffet where guests can cook their own food at the table. The selection of meats, seafood, vegetables, and broths is wide, and the sauces can be customized to match your personal taste. Tong Yang is perfect for family gatherings or group celebrations.
Yayoi Japanese Teishoku Restaurant
Yayoi is a Japanese restaurant that brings authentic teishoku meals to Filipino diners. Teishoku refers to set meals that include rice, miso soup, a main dish, and side items. The concept is simple, but the execution is flavorful and satisfying. Favorites include the sukiyaki, karaage chicken, and tonkatsu sets. The peaceful ambiance and quick service make it ideal for both solo diners and small groups.
Niu by Vikings
Niu by Vikings is an upscale buffet that elevates the traditional buffet experience with fine-dining elements. Considered one of the best restaurants in Podium for special occasions, it offers a wide array of dishes from different cuisines, including Filipino, Japanese, Chinese, Italian, and Western. They also feature live cooking stations, carving stations, and a stunning dessert selection that includes gelato and pastries.
Shi Lin
If you’re craving Taiwanese cuisine, Shi Lin delivers consistent quality with favorites such as xiao long bao (soup dumplings), fried rice, and beef noodle soup. The food is flavorful and comforting, making it one of the most reliable options in the Podium for a quick and satisfying meal. The clean interior and fast service enhance the overall experience.
Hidden Gems Worth Discovering
Elephant Grounds
Elephant Grounds is a trendy café that originated in Hong Kong and is known for its specialty coffee, ice cream sandwiches, and Asian fusion meals. While it’s not as widely known as some other restaurants in the mall, it has built a loyal following thanks to its aesthetic setting and flavorful brunch menu. Try their truffle fries, breakfast bowls, or cold brew for a refreshing break from shopping.
Frankie’s New York Buffalo Wings
Frankie’s is a go-to spot for wing lovers. They offer generous portions, a variety of flavors ranging from classic buffalo to garlic parmesan and salted egg, and great value for money. The casual and friendly atmosphere makes it ideal for young professionals, students, or anyone looking for a quick bite with friends.
Sibyullee
Sibyullee brings the taste of Seoul to the Podium with their modern Korean barbecue setup. Known for their flavorful marinades and high-quality meats, Sibyullee also offers Korean street food favorites like cheese tteokbokki and seafood pancakes. Their grilling tables are well-designed for both small and large groups.
Putien
Putien is a Michelin-starred restaurant brand that originated in Singapore and specializes in Fujian cuisine. It’s a great choice for diners who want to explore something different from the usual Chinese fare. Their signature dishes include the fried Heng Hwa bee hoon, braised pig intestine, and Putien-style crispy oysters. The refined setting adds to the premium experience.
Best Dessert and Snack Spots in Podium
Le Petit Soufflé
Le Petit Soufflé offers French-Japanese fusion desserts in a charming setting. Their matcha and chocolate soufflés are highly recommended, and they also serve full meals like pastas, rice bowls, and Japanese curry. The interior design is perfect for Instagram photos, adding to its appeal among younger diners.
Scout’s Honor
If you have a sweet tooth, Scout’s Honor is the place to go. They are best known for their craft cookie bar, where you can build your own cookies or choose from creative combinations. They also offer ice cream, coffee, and breakfast meals. This shop is a favorite for casual hangouts and quick dessert cravings.
Poison Coffee & Doughnuts
For those who like unique flavors, Poison offers a different take on doughnuts and specialty coffee. Their minimalist shop hides in a quiet corner of the mall, making it feel like a secret escape. Flavors like calaman-si, coco mochi, and chocolate doughnuts pair well with their bold coffee brews.
What Makes the Podium a Foodie Destination
Aside from the wide range of restaurants, the Podium offers a high-end and peaceful dining environment compared to many busier malls. The spacious walkways, modern architecture, and clean facilities add to the overall dining experience. Many of the restaurants here prioritize quality and ambiance, making it popular among professionals, families, and tourists.
Podium Mall also hosts seasonal food events and pop-ups, which showcase new food trends and small businesses. This makes the food scene here dynamic and worth revisiting regularly.
The best restaurants in Podium offer more than just good food they deliver experiences that are worth remembering. From all-you-can-eat buffets and authentic Asian dishes to elegant desserts and quick snacks, the dining options are diverse and well-curated. Whether you’re on a romantic date, having lunch with coworkers, or enjoying a family dinner, the Podium has something to satisfy every craving. It’s no surprise that this mall has become one of the top foodie destinations in Metro Manila.