Best Upscale Filipino Restaurants in Manhattan | Upscale Filipino Food

10 restaurants in Best Upscale Filipino Restaurants in Manhattan | Upscale Filipino Food

• Dos Toros Restaurant — Mexican · rated 4.6/5: Dos Toros pulses with the vibrant energy of a bustling taqueria, where the rhythmic sound of cleavers and the aroma of charred chilies create an atmosphere of spirited, fast-paced craftsmanship. Golden, hand-pressed tortillas wrap around slow-simmered meats and zesty, house-made salsas, delivering a punch of bright, West Coast-inspired flavor in every bite. It is a lively destination where the creamy richness of hand-mashed guacamole meets the smoky heat of adobo, offering a fresh and authentic tribute to the bold culinary traditions of San Francisco’s Mission District.
• Pig and Khao — Thai · rated 4.3/5: Located in the vibrant Lower East Side, Pig and Khao offers a trendy yet cozy dining experience with its Southeast Asian comfort food. Popular dishes include khao soi, sisig, and pork belly adobo, complemented by happy hour drinks. Ideal for brunch, lunch, or dinner, this restaurant is well-loved for its attentive service and flavorful dishes. Enjoy the inviting bar setting or the outdoor patio while savoring your meal. Reservations recommended.
• Little Chef Little Café — American · rated 4/5: This sun-drenched neighborhood nook hums with the comforting sizzle of the griddle, where the aroma of toasted brioche and savory spices invites guests into a bright, welcoming space. Golden-yolked eggs and melted cheese are elevated by the bold, soulful flavors of Filipino-inspired adobo and sweet-garlic longanisa, creating a breakfast experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. From vibrant, herb-flecked toasts to hearty, spice-kissed rolls, every dish serves as a warm, handcrafted invitation to slow down and savor the morning.
• Kora — Filipino · rated 4/5: Kora serves as a vibrant homage to Filipino heritage, where the air is perfumed with the scent of toasted coconut and the deep, earthy sweetness of purple ube. Intricately braided babka wreaths and thick, molten cookies—studded with premium Auro chocolate or caramelized white chocolate—transform traditional island ingredients into a decadent, modern celebration of flavor.
• Adobo Mexican Grill — Mexican · rated 4/5: The air at Adobo Mexican Grill is thick with the savory aroma of slow-simmered meats, where golden-crisped birria tacos are served alongside rich, spice-laden consomé for the ultimate indulgent dip. This vibrant spot transforms fresh ingredients into a celebration of texture and heat, offering everything from overstuffed burritos and zest-filled bowls to mountains of loaded nachos perfect for sharing in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
• Forsyth Fire Escape (6-Month Residency) — Chinese · rated 3.9/5: Nestled inside the iconic Starrett-Lehigh Building in Chelsea, this beloved fast food spot is renowned for its inventive scallion pancake burritos. Popular fillings include pernil, chicken, cheese, and lemongrass chicken, complemented by crowd favorites like tostones and adobo fries. With a cool vibe and friendly staff, this spot has become a go-to for delicious, creative, and affordable meals.
• Adobo Mexican Grill — Mexican: Adobo Mexican Grill pulses with a vibrant energy, where the enticing aroma of slow-simmered birria and toasted corn tortillas invites guests to experience the bold heart of Mexican street food. Diners can indulge in everything from crispy, golden tacos and overstuffed burritos to decadent piles of loaded fries, all crafted with a focus on fresh textures and zesty, sun-drenched flavors that turn a casual meal into a festive escape.
• Izzy's Brooklyn Smokehouse — American: Brooklyn energy meets the low-and-slow soul of a traditional smokehouse, where the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of hickory and smoldering spice. Tender, house-smoked brisket and succulent pulled beef find new life in crispy empanadas and street-style tacos, blending classic barbecue techniques with vibrant global accents like adobo and Korean glaze. Each dish offers a masterclass in texture and heat, from the satisfying crunch of golden egg rolls to the rich, savory depth of loaded fries, creating a destination for bold, soulful comfort food with an urban edge.
• Jollibee — American: Step into a vibrant, cheerful space where the enticing scent of golden-brown fried chicken and savory gravy signals a unique celebration of Filipino comfort food. The experience centers on the legendary Chickenjoy, boasting a shatteringly crisp exterior and juicy interior, served alongside whimsical favorites like sweet-style spaghetti and rich, garlic-infused Palabok. It is a nostalgic and high-energy destination where bold, soulful flavors turn every meal into a festive gathering.
• Jollibee — American: This vibrant, crimson-hued destination hums with a joyful energy, drawing guests in with the irresistible aroma of golden, hand-breaded fried chicken that shatters with a perfectly seasoned, savory crunch. The experience is a nostalgic celebration of Filipino comfort, where the signature "Chickenjoy" pairs with the whimsical sweetness of signature spaghetti and warm, flaky peach mango pies to create a soulful meal that feels like a festive family gathering.