At Makati Rockwell Center’s Navarra suggests Grace Park, where the menu reflects both Filipino tradition and the Italian training of its late chef, Margarita Forés. In the adobo (a soy-vinegar stew), lamb is used instead of chicken. The sisig (normally a plate of sizzling pork jowls and belly) uses spider conch and crispy fish maw. Grace Park also offers classics like lechon (whole-roasted pig) for Sunday lunch.
Espresso martinis
Navarra explains that pairing coffee with cocktails is the latest trend. He praises Legazpi Village as a place to visit. Curator Coffee & Cocktails, a café that at night transitions into a bar often helmed by guest mixologists from cities including New York, Singapore. Seoul. ItoThe “drinking session” includes espresso-based concoctions and matcha along with nonalcoholic tipples, as well as snack pairings. Navarra, who works with Ito’s farmers, says that she enjoys seeing the same ingredients used at Toyo transformed into cocktails.
Shop Smart
Navarra’s restaurant, The Alley at Karrivin in Makati, is located right next to The Alley at Karrivin. Aphro The galleries sell local stoneware, textiles and ceramics. Artinformal Then, there is the Drawing Room Focus on Filipino Artists Eco-friendly Ritual Books, skincare products and heritage items are available in the stores. “I visit them as often as I can,” Navarra states. He also offers suggestions for designs. Carl Jan CruzHis Taguig showroom has everyday wear, as well as some special pieces.
This article appeared in July/August 2025 issue. Condé Nast Traveler. Subscribe to a magazine here.