Nothing makes a night out in Manila more sophisticated than a visit to a rooftop bar. After all, there’s something unforgettable about being several stories above the city, taking in panoramic views of the urban skyline and the city’s famous sunsets while enjoying mellow music, a bespoke cocktail, and lively conversations with friends.
Manila’s best rooftop bars are more than just their great views; they’re upscale venues that offer indulgent experiences that are set apart from the rest of the city’s nightlife. These bars are worth a visit for those dressed-up yet chilled-out nights with friends and loved ones.
If bar-hopping makes you hungry, a luxurious steak dinner may be the perfect prelude for a night out. We invite you to take a Sneak Peek: Manila’s Classic and High-End Steakhouses.
Where To Find The Best Rooftop Bars in Manila
The best rooftop bars in Manila are often found in hotels where great views of the city are at a premium, usually in top central business districts such as BGC and Ortigas. Makati has more than its fair share of rooftop bars, some of which are also located in office buildings when not in popular nightlife hubs such as Poblacion.
One thing to note about rooftop bars in Manila is that not all of them are completely outdoors; some may have al fresco areas with overhead shading to protect visitors from the weather. Either way, these bars can still guarantee you a great view of the city regardless of where you’re seated.
1. Top of the Alpha – Alphaland Building, Manila
Located at the top floor of the strategically-located Alphaland Building, Top of the Alpha is known for its indulgent, grown-up vibes, thanks to the frequent jazz gigs at the bar. The bar’s wraparound terrace gives guests a good view of the Makati skyline and beyond, and the drink menu offers a curated selection of handcrafted signature cocktails.
Apart from cocktails, wines, and spirits, Top of the Alpha also offers the finest hand-rolled cigars for enjoyment. Private rooms are available for guests, and the bar can also be booked in the daytime as a venue for special events.
2. Vu’s – Marco Polo Hotel, Pasig
The rooftop bar of the Marco Polo in Ortigas is divided into two distinct sections: an indoors bar that offers music from live bands, and an al fresco terrace with chilled-out sets from DJs. The club-like atmosphere in both rooms lend an air of exclusivity and sophistication to the bar itself.
The bar bites at Vu’s features flavors influenced by Filipino and Mediterranean cuisine, the better to compliment the selection of wines, spirits and cocktails. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also give the bar’s own shisha lounge a try.
3. Straight Up Bar – Seda Hotel BGC, Taguig
While other Seda hotels have their own Straight Up outlets, the BGC incarnation of the bar is considered one of the best in Manila, and not because it’s located in one of Manila’s most upscale business districts. The view covers the best of the Global City and beyond, and the vibes for both indoor and outdoor areas are equally luxurious.
Straight Up is one of the best places to meet friends at BGC, since the ambiance is conducive for catch-up conversations after work hours. Comforting main dishes and tasty tapas share space on the Straight Up menu, along with cocktails, craft beers, and an extensive wine list.
Curious about Filipino craft beers? Start your exploration with For The Love of Beers: 5 Best Craft Breweries in the Philippines.
4. The Sora – Hotel Okura Newport, Pasay
The rooftop bar of Hotel Okura is located next to the guests-only swimming pool. Non-guests of the hotel, however, are welcome to book cabanas and teppan tables at poolside, the better to enjoy the bar’s wide-angle views of the southern part of the metro.
Japanese design gives The Sora a relaxing Zen vibe, especially at sunset. The eclectic menu offers Japanese and international comfort food favorites, while cocktails and wines share space with non-alcoholic smoothies and juices on the drink list.
5. Sky Deck View Bar – Bayview Hotel Intramuros, City of Manila
No list of rooftop bars in Manila is complete without the classic Sky Deck in Intramuros, which has grown in popularity to the point where reservations are a must to get the best seats. There’s no denying that the 360-degree view of the Manila skyline is the big draw here, but people keep coming back for the bar’s relaxed vibes.
Classic cocktails, beers, wines, and a large a la carte food menu are available all night to guests, making the bar a popular hangout spot for the younger crowd. Seating options such as wicker chairs and lounge sofas are also available.
Ready to take your cocktail nights to the next level? Take a look at 5 Filipino-Made Liquors You Must Try.
Tall Drinks, Great Views, Excellent Company
It’s not every day that anyone gets to indulge in a panoramic view of Metro Manila, especially in the company of loved ones. Rooftop bars give guests the opportunity to relax and enjoy the finer things in life while soaking in the spectacular vistas of the city.
Try visiting a rooftop bar in Manila for an unexpected twist to the usual night out. Between the views, the drinks, and the sophisticated ambiance, you’ll have an extraordinary experience of how it feels, literally, to be “on top of the world.”
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Featured Image by Vus Sky Bar and Lounge Marco Polo Ortigas Manila – Facebook
