Vibrant New Stories Emerge at Makati's Poblacion...

An eclectic neighborhood in the midst of change and transition ushers in a new chapter in its on-going story. Familiar and new names in the 'hood paint a colorful tapestry constantly evolving yet remaining as diverse Poblacion has always been known for with its own distinctive pulse and creative vibe. Let's take a walk around the neighborhood...

It's been years since I last visited Poblacion, but the same spirit remains just as unique and proudly rebellious even defiant staying true to its non-conformist nature. Despite the changes and absence of former establishments, a new batch of hotspots takes their place continuing a tradition that has long defined the neighborhood alongside the enduring dives of Poblacion. It's this continuous wave of change that breathes and injects new life to the neighborhood forever in transition. Welcome to the latest chapter of Makati's iconic neighborhood...

Reborn With Renewed Purpose

Widely regarded by many as an accurate barometer of the next big thing, the neighborhood is often seen as an incubator of novel concepts and ideas. One such place is Julyan. A familiar spot is transformed driven by a new mission in support of its advocacy for PWDs. And you can be part of it. 

The elegant space can be yours for your next culinary event, set up with a complete kitchen and bar ideal for a memorable lunch or dinner. Julyan is open to events and pop-ups with that distinctive Poblacion vibe. Owned by Rachel Fernandez Harrison, an advocate for social enterprise supporting PWDs and autism, Julyan is an extension of her Zambales resort, Zambawood reflecting the same passionate and artistic vibe of the neighborhood. Now managed by Chef Philip John Golding and CineKulinarya, Julyan can be your personal stage to showcase your culinary creations. 

The tables are set and ready for your much-awaited culinary event. It's your move. Julyan is located at 5983 Enrique Street, Poblacion. 

Brewin' Dreams at Taverne du Grain

A young couple follows their dreams opening a specialty coffee shop in the neighborhood. Sure, there are numerous options for a cup of soothing coffee inside Poblacion, but Taverne du Grain Specialty Coffee and Bistro brings one more colorful thread to the neighborhood's constantly changing tapestry with a comforting warmth. 

Ronnie Sararaña and Jessica Nicole Acierto brings a rustic yet elegant French vibe to the neighborhood's coffee scene with Taverne du Grain, a cozy spot just a few steps from Julyan. Far from the usual crowds associated with Poblacion, think of Taverne du Grain as your own private coffee corner. Simply have a chat with Ronnie and ask for his reco on your caffeine fix for the day...

An ice-cold and creamy Con Leche (P 195) seemed to be the perfect choice for a hot summer afternoon in the 'hood. Smooth and indulgently creamy with a rounded, flavorful depth, this is just what you need start your own Poblacion walk. Other tempting options include the classic Long Black (P 140), Flat White (P 170), Cappuccino (P 160), Cafe Latte (P 160) and the rich Cacau Chaud Royale (P 180) along with iced variants like Black (P 150), White (P 180), Matcha (P 220) and Java (P 195). With prized beans sourced from Brazil, El Salvador and Ethiopia, Taverne du Grain is one couple's dreams served in a soothing cup at Poblacion adding to the new and exciting stories in the 'hood (visit their IG Feed at https://www.instagram.com/tavernedugrain/ for more information and updates on Taverne du Grain).

Sumptuous Pot Sessions at Super Uncle Authentic Claypot Rice

Comforting cuisine done well is Poblacion's calling card, and a sumptuous bowl of claypot rice always hits the spot. Super Uncle Authentic Claypot Rice has become the go-to spot after a wild night out in the neighborhood and it's easy to see why. Who can resist a savory bowl claypot rice loaded with tasty toppings? 

Inside Super Uncle Authentic Claypot Rice, tables were filled even late in the afternoon for a serving of their specialty claypot offerings. The homey vibe gives the restaurant its special charm, complete with the sights and sounds from the busy kitchen. It's spots like this that keeps Poblacion at the top of the list for flavorful finds deserving another visit. And soon.

The World Is Your Oyster at Wantusawa

When it comes to freshly shucked oysters served in a half shell, one name in Poblacion immediately pops up. For years, Wantusawa has been the top destination when it comes to fresh succulent oysters. Fresh, baked, grilled or fried for one or to share, Wantusawa remains the top pick for oysters all-day long. 

Inside, ice filled cabinets loaded with oysters by the bar lets you stay up close to the prized shellfish you love. Perfectly paired with cocktails or beer, the fresh Aklan oysters served at the bar is just one of many reasons to revisit Poblacion (for more on Wantusawa, visit their B Page at https://www.facebook.com/wantusawaoysters). 

Smashin' It At Scratch

Located along Don Pedro Street, Scratch Smashburgers Poblacion is creating quite a buzz with its specialty burgers. Made from Scratch and smashed to juicy perfection ringed by a crisp crust, these burgers are literally smashing the burger scene at Poblacion. And you can tell they're absolutely smashin' it with the long line of riders picking up the orders for delivery. 

The signature Smash Burger (P 360) with double patties, Cheddar, caramelized onions and pickles slathered with Scratch sauce on pillow soft buttery potato buns just hits the spot. It's the medley of flavors and textures from all the components coming together in a big bite that really seals the deal. Pair it with their killer fries in Twister, Crinkle Cut and Loaded variants and you have one seriously good meal. The new Swiss Shroom Smash is one more reason to head back to Scratch Smashburgers Poblacion. But stay a while. Scratch Smashburgers Poblacion also has a speakeasy called Dumbo. This is after all, Poblacion and always expect the unexpected (for more on Scratch Smashburgers Poblacion, visit their FB Page at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php for more information).

The Neighborhood's Little Shop Of Curiosities, A Speakeasy, BnB and Tattoo Parlor

Shopping for that rare, hard-to-find collectible, a cool art piece from the gallery showcasing local artists for your personal collection, a secret speakeasy for that much-needed downtime with handcrafted cocktails, finally going for that tattoo or piercing and maybe that tarot reading to finally satisfy your curiosity or simply a space to crash and relax? One place has all that. And more. Find it at 1111 Tattoo MNL in 5969 Fermina Street. 

Artist Mikhail Guingon brings together an eclectic mix at the coolest art hub in the 'hood in true Poblacion style. Free-spirited, creative and even far from the usual, 1111 Tattoo MNL is something you'd expect to find in Poblacion fitting right in the neighborhood's character and personality. From art gallery with featured local artists...

...to Poblacion's little shop of curiosities with a wide selection of collectibles...

...a tattoo parlor...

...and speakeasy with its private lounge and well-stocked bar, 1111 Tattoo MNL is the place to satisfy your spur of the moment mood. If there's one thing that defines Poblacion, it's spontaneity. That day, 1111 Tattoo MNL's resident mixologists were toying with an adobo based cocktail. No surprise there. 

And if you want to dive deep into the neighborhood's vibrant vibe, stay a night at their own BnB and wake up refreshed the next day to explore Poblacion and its countless stories. 1111 Tattoo MNL has something for everyone, enriching the stories that continue to define Poblacion (for more on 1111 Tattoo MNL, visit their FB Page and IG Feed at https://www.facebook.com/1111tattoomnl/ and https://www.instagram.com/1111tattoomnl/ for more details and information).

A New Destination Takes Root In The Neighborhood

A new establishment takes the spotlight in the 'hood located at the corner of Fermina and Alfonso Streets. Sleek and modern, The Treehouse Poblacion marks a new wave of concepts breathing new life to the 'hood. It's a much-needed shot in the arm, revitalizing the street scene with its elegant take on the hood's nocturnal attractions. 

Designed and built around the tree on the corner lot, it comes as no surprise that Poblacion's newest destination is called The Treehouse. The multi-level nightspot offers guests a variety of secluded spots from the ground floor all the way to the upper floors with al fresco options while maximizing the space. 

From coffee-based libations...

...to soothing cocktails like the refreshing G&T, The Treehouse Poblacion may just be your new dive in the neighborhood. 

And they do have a full kitchen offering tasty bar bites, pasta and rice dishes plus signature mains like The Treehouse Breakfast, Mentaiko Tuna Melt and Shrimp BLT Sandwich (for more on The Treehouse Poblacion, visit their IG Feed at https://www.instagram.com/treehouse.poblacion/ for more information and updates).

East Meets West at Japonesa in Poblacion 

From sake-based concoctions to the classic Pisco Sour, Japonesa remains the definitive spot for authentic Japanese Peruvian cuisine and cocktails since it opened three years ago. And it's the exquisite renditions of Japanese Peruvian dishes that keeps guests coming back to the establishment at the corner of Don Pedro and Jacobo streets. 

With space at a premium in Poblacion, you get a whole lot of it at Japonesa which easily accommodates up to 70 guests plus an additional 18-20 in its private dining room. One feels pleasantly isolated from the usual crowds yet smack right in the center of Poblacion's nightlife, Japonesa is another must-visit destination in the neighborhood (for more on Japonesa, check out their website and FB Page at https://www.notorious-concepts.com/pages/japonesa and https://www.facebook.com/JaponesaPoblacion  for more information).

Pick Your Seat At The Long Table in Bibio Wine Bar

Book your spot at the Long Table in Bibio Wine Bar and discover the all-natural wine selection from Austrian winemaker Gut Oggau. Better yet, pair it with the exquisite culinary creations of Chef Kier Ibanez. Opened just two years ago, Bibio will soon expand with a new branch in BGC. Exciting things are happening along Don Pedro Street in Poblacion...

New Zealand based Chef Kier Ibanez is currently the Chef-in-Residence of Bibio and recently rolled out a brand new menu. In between, Chef Kier also hosts regular pop-ups at Bibio dubbed Long Table named after his restaurant in New Zealand. Chef Kier and Bibio brings a refreshingly new element to the Poblacion dining experience with his unique take on classic dishes like Smoked Fish Rillette, Beef Cheeks Croquette, Steak Frites and indulgent Dark Chocolate Rosemary Tart. 

Enjoy an ice-cold Fat Cat Pale Ale from Treeline Ales, a local small batch brewery with an imoressive selection of artisan craft beers...

...and maybe a slice of the Dark Chocolate Rosemary Tart. Or maybe the Pear Dark Chocolate with Custard. A second visit to Bibio is in order, and soon...(for more on Bibio, visit their IG Feed at https://www.instagram.com/bibio.mnl/).

Straight Shooting Good Food at Evet Köfte

You can't miss the iconic image of 2024 Paris Olympics silver medalist Yusuf Dikec on the walls. And when you spot it, you're on target for some of the best grilled Turkish beef meatballs served in authentic pita bread in Poblacion. Step inside Evet Köfte...

But first, an ice-cold brew...

...just what you need with the hearty Köfte Grande (P 300 Solo/P 400 Meal with fries and soda). The juicy, richly seasoned beef meatballs deliver a flavorful and savory burst complemented by the fresh and clean notes of the tomatoes, onions and crisp lettuce slathered by their special sauce. It's a hand-holdable feast, Turkish style. From the soft and delicately crisp on the edges pita bread to the generous load of savory filling, Evet Köfte brings both quality and value to the table for another satisfying option in Poblacion. And that's definitely some straight shooting good food (for more on Evet Köfte, visit their FB Page and IG Feed at https://www.facebook.com/evetkoftemanila and https://www.instagram.com/evetkoftemanila/).

A day just isn't enough to experience the neighborhood's creative energy and eclectic vibe. Constantly changing and in continuous transition, the enduring spirit remains proudly resilient forever embracing change with continuous innovation. Now that deserves another toast... 

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