ArdorAsia – Best Places To Visit In Asia

Category: Manila

  • 5 Best Restaurants In Solaire Resort, Philippines

    5 Best Restaurants In Solaire Resort, Philippines

    The Philippines has long been a favorite among global travelers for its white-sand beaches, warm hospitality, and vibrant cultural festivals. But in recent years, the country has begun to make a name for itself in another arena—culinary excellence. With world-renowned chefs taking interest and a new wave of innovative local talent rising, the Philippines is fast becoming a food destination in Southeast Asia. This has also been heightened by the fact that Manila has a unique cultural mix of Malay, Spanish, American, Chinese, and Arabic.

    Even the late, great Anthony Bourdain once remarked on the rich depth of Filipino cuisine. He championed dishes like lechon and sisig, recognizing the country’s culinary identity as bold, complex, and deeply comforting. As tourism continues to grow, more visitors are seeking out the best in Filipino and international dining, and one of the top places to experience this is Solaire Resort and Casino.

    The Rise of Solaire Casino

    Located in the Entertainment City complex of Parañaque, Metro Manila, Solaire Resort and Casino opened its doors in 2013 as the first integrated resort in the Philippines. It marked the beginning of a new era for Philippine tourism, offering not just gaming but also luxury accommodations, upscale shopping, Broadway-style shows, and a world-class dining scene.

    Solaire’s success was immediate and impressive. Over the years, it expanded its offerings, opening new hotel towers and diversifying its entertainment and culinary options. The casino itself quickly became a hotspot for both local and international gamers, positioning Solaire Casino as one of the premier destinations in Asia for high-end casino entertainment.

    The brand’s growth didn’t stop with its physical footprint. In recent years, Solaire Casino launched its online platform, bringing the thrill of live table games and slots to users at home. By replicating the brick-and-mortar casino experience online, Solaire reached a broader audience, from loyal patrons to curious new players across the globe. This online expansion not only strengthened the brand’s visibility but also kept it relevant in an increasingly digital world.

    Of course, no luxury resort would be complete without top-tier dining, and Solaire delivers on this front with a range of restaurants that cater to diverse tastes. Here are five of the best restaurants within Solaire Resort that are not to be missed.

    1. Finestra Italian Steakhouse

    Finestra is Solaire’s flagship Italian restaurant—and it’s more than just a steakhouse. This award-winning venue has consistently earned a spot in food critics’ lists for its outstanding service, elegant ambiance, and expertly prepared cuisine. With panoramic views of Manila Bay and an open kitchen that lets diners watch chefs in action, Finestra offers a multisensory experience.

    Highlights from the menu include Australian Wagyu ribeye, truffle risotto, and fresh handmade pastas. The wine list is extensive and carefully curated, making Finestra ideal for romantic dinners, celebrations, or business lunches.

    2. Yakumi

    If Japanese cuisine is more your style, Yakumi is your destination. Known for importing the freshest ingredients directly from Tokyo’s Toyosu Fish Market, Yakumi delivers authenticity with every bite. The restaurant features live sushi and teppanyaki counters, letting diners experience the preparation of their meals in real-time.

    Signature dishes include premium sashimi platters, Hokkaido scallops, and Wagyu beef grilled in traditional hobayaki style. Whether you’re seated at the sushi bar or in a private room, Yakumi blends tradition and luxury in perfect harmony.

    3. Red Lantern

    Red Lantern is Solaire’s crown jewel for Chinese fine dining. This sophisticated restaurant pays homage to regional Chinese cuisine with a menu that spans the flavors of Cantonese, Szechuan, and Northern China. Red Lantern is also known for its dim sum weekends and signature live seafood selection, where guests can choose from tanks of fresh prawns, crabs, and lobsters.

    Standout dishes include Peking duck carved tableside, XO seafood fried rice, and crab meat soup with fish maw. For tea lovers, a resident tea master can help you pair your meal with the perfect brew.

    4. Fresh International Buffet

    For those who want variety or are dining with a group, Fresh is Solaire’s answer. This expansive international buffet serves a rotating menu that includes Japanese, Western, Filipino, Chinese, and Indian selections. Guests rave about the seafood station, premium sashimi, grilled meats, and decadent dessert spread.

    Fresh is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and it’s one of the highest-rated buffet restaurants in Manila, frequently drawing in both tourists and locals. With seating designed for comfort and accessibility, Fresh is ideal for families, celebrations, and anyone with a big appetite.

    5. Waterside

    Waterside offers a relaxed yet upscale dining experience by the poolside. Its menu is a fusion of Latin and Mediterranean influences, featuring dishes like paella Valenciana, grilled seafood platters, and tapas-style appetizers.

    The ambiance is casual chic, perfect for unwinding after a day at the casino or enjoying a weekend brunch. With views of the pool and occasional live music in the evenings, Waterside is a hidden gem within the resort.

    Honorable Mentions

    While these five stand out, Solaire Casino also houses several other excellent eateries. Lucky Noodles serves comforting Asian noodle dishes 24/7. Oasis Garden Café is perfect for afternoon tea or coffee. And if you’re craving international fast food or dessert, the food court has plenty to offer.

    The Philippines is on the rise as a global food destination, and Solaire is one of its brightest culinary stars. Whether you’re in it for the fine dining or the all-you-can-eat experience, Solaire offers a world of flavors under one luxurious roof.

    And with Solaire expanding its reach through both on-site and online experiences, there’s never been a better time to explore what this resort has to offer, not just for gaming, but for a complete lifestyle experience.

    Ready to dine like royalty? Book your table now and experience the best of Philippine hospitality and world-class cuisine at Solaire. For more travel and lifestyle articles, do visit the rest of ArdorAsia.

  • Top Manila Attractions – What To Do & See In Manila Philippines

    Top Manila Attractions – What To Do & See In Manila Philippines

    The capital city of Philippines is a vibrant global city that is capable of reinvigorating even the most world-weary among us. Manila has a unique cultural mix of Malay, Spanish, American, Chinese and Arabic. With such intense influences, it will take a while for one to explore and fully appreciate what the city has to offer. Braving much hardship from natural disaster and historical warfare in the past,  the city and its people have emerged strongly to position themselves as one of Asia’s megacities today. If you are thinking of heading to this amazing Asian city, we have compiled the top 10 must-visit attractions in Manila Philippines.

    1. Fort Santiago & Rizal Shrine Museum

    This famous fort was actually a citadel built by the Spanish conquistador, Miguel López de Legazpi for the newly established city of Manila in the Philippines. During the Spanish Colonial Period and World War II, many lives were lost within its prisons. Philippines’ national hero, Jose Rizal spent his last days before his execution. The Rizal Shrine Museum displays a collection of Jose memorabilia and embedded his footsteps in bronze to represent his final walk from his cell to the execution ground.

    Address: Intramuros, Metro Manila | Opening hour: 8:00am – 6:00pm | Getting there: Stop at Central Station (LRT) and take a short walk to Quezon Bridge and take the pier jeepneys | Fee: Adults Php65, Children Php50

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    2. Intramuros Historical City

    Once the heart of the Spanish and American governments during colonial times, this oldest district of Manila is best explored by walking or riding on a horse-drawn kalesa. To truly appreciate the heritage, culture and story behind the city, you should enlist in a walking tour with a professional guide.

    3. Rizal Park

    Built in memory of Philippines national hero, Jose Rizal, Rizal Park makes the perfect spot for family picnics, unwind or watch a friendly Escrimadors duel early in the morning. Steep in history from the execution of Jose Rizal and declaration of independence from American rule, history enthusiasts will love this place!

    Address: Roxas Boulevard, Ermita, Metro Manila | Getting there: A short walk towards T.M Kalaw from the United Nations Station (LRT 1 Yellow Line)

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    4. Malacañang Palace

    Commanding a bird eye’s view of the Pasig River, this huge palace complex date back to the mid-18th century when it served as the residence of a Spanish aristocrat. Today, it has become the official residence of the Filipino president since 1935 and only the Museo ng Malacañang is open to tourists. Before you visit, you should visit here to book 10 days in advance with your contact number, the number of participants and passport documents. Otherwise, you can also book with the local tour agencies in advance.

    Address:JP Laurel Sr Street San Miguel | Tour Slots: 9am, 10am, 11am,1pm, 2pm and 3pm (Mon to Fri) l Tel: +63 2 2 784 4286 l Email: presidentialmansion@yahoo.com Getting there: Take a cab

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    5. Binondo

    Well-known as the Chinatown of Manila, this is an exciting place to explore. Binondo is especially lively during Chinese New Year. Experience a huge variation of street food here, try out exotic food at the wet market or simply spoil yourself silly with lots of bargain shopping.

    Address: Metro Manila | Getting there: From Baclaran Sta. stop at Carriedo Sta. (LRT)

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    6. Manila Baywalk

    The walk is a bustling promenade that is lined with outdoor restaurants, trendy bars, swanky cafes, and live bands in the evening. Local artists frequent the area and you can get to watch free mime, acrobatics and other art performances along the strip. This is the best place to be for a gorgeous sunset in the Filipino Capital.

    Address: Between US Embassy and Cultural Center of The Philippines | Opening hour: Best to stroll this area after sunset | Getting there: Take the LRT Vito Cruz

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    7. Divisoria Market

    The city may have many air-conditioned malls but the real local shopping experence is acquired through haggling in the street markets of Divisoria, Quiapo and Baclaran. If you do not have enough time to visit all of them, just focus on just Divisoria – The Mother Of All Street Markets in Manila. Divisoria Market caters mainly for the locals hence you may find it intimidating. However, this is where the best bargaining and local experience take place.

    Address: Bgy 271, Zone 025 San Nicolas, Manila, Philippines | Opening hour: 6am to 10pm| Getting there: Alight Doroteo Jose LRT and grab a jeepney to the market.

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    8. Quiapo Church

    Built as a replacement to the previous structure that was destroyed by fire, Quiapo Church is one of Manila’s best-known landmarks. It is the home of the Black Nazarene, an image of Christ which Filipinos believed to be miraculous. The life-size statue carved from ebony was first brought to Quiapo in 1767. Twice every year devotees will carry the divine statue on their shoulders in one of Manila’s biggest religious festivals, the Black Nazarene Procession.

    Address: Quezon Blvd, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines | Tel:+63 2 733 4434 | Getting there: Alight Carriedo Station and walk eastward.

    9. Manila Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica

    The Manila Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica (Manila Cathedral) is one of the oldest and most famous churches in Asia. Having stood for more than four centuries, this religious building has seen both the best and worst of history from defining triumphs to heart-wrenching tragedies and poignant celebrations. Visit and soak in the hard-earned glory of the cathedral when you visit Manila.

    Address: Cabildo corner Beaterio, Intramuros, Manila, Metro Manila 1002, Philippines | Tel:+63 2 527 3093 | Website: manilacathedral.ph l Getting there: Alight Carriedo Station and take a jeepney ride

    10. Star City

    Entertain your family with a night of fun at this popular amusement park in the heart of Manila. With just a few hundred of pesos, you get to enjoy unlimited access to all the rides ranging from adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to milder rides suitable for everyone.

    Address: Vicente Sotto St, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines l Opening Hours: After 4pm (Mon – Thurs) & After 2pm (Fri – Sun) l Tel: +63 2 832 0307 l Getting there: Alight Vito Cruz LRT

    Manila is an interesting city with a different vibe as the day turns into night. Have you explored any places in Manila that are not on this list? Share with us your experience in the comments below so others can check it out the next time they’re in Manila!