Aurora in Makati: A Symphony of Asian Flavors
Aurora, a Michelin Guide Selected restaurant located on the Ground Floor of the Pacific Star Building in Makati, has been serving its thoughtfully curated dishes since February 2023. It is an elegant dining destination with a private dining space and stylish bar.
IMAGE from Aurora
IMAGE from Aurora
Restaurant Aurora’s recent Michelin distinction also marks the realization of a deeply personal dream for its owner Atty. Nilo T. Divina, Founder of Divina Law. Inspired by his beloved mother, Aurora whose home-cooked meals were a source of warmth and togetherness, Atty. Divina envisioned a restaurant that would reflect the same spirit.
Attorney Nilo T. Divina, owner of Aurora / IMAGE from Aurora
When it comes to their culinary offerings, Aurora has crafted the 10-course menu that celebrates creativity, sustainability, and technique. The 10-course menu is priced at Php 5,800 per head, exclusive of 10% service charge, usually served for dinner.
The menu opens with Tuna, featuring cured General Santos tuna paired with seaweed croustade and pickled seaweed. This is followed by Durian, a bold composition of nori roll, gulai tempoyak, kaffir, and kamias gel.
Tuna / IMAGE from Aurora
The seafood selections continue with Unagi, which highlights Bago River eel complemented by green apple meringue, foie gras, and veil. Next is Tartare, where Angus beef is paired with smoked crying tiger and spiced rice crackers, creating a satisfying contrast of smoky flavors and crisp textures.
Midway through the tasting journey, diners encounter Oysters, featuring soft poached Negros oyster with oyster cream and sea foam that enhances the natural brininess of the seafood. This is followed by Mushroom, a comforting composition of mushroom tea and mushroom espuma finished with Cordilleran truffle.
Oyster / IMAGE from Aurora
Mushroom / IMAGE from Aurora
The menu then moves into seafood entrées with Snapper, presenting smoked red snapper accompanied by fermented coffee tea, saffron emulsion, and sea crisp. It is followed by Asian Bass, prepared konbujime-style and served with fish milk, mustard aioli, vegetable noodle, and fermented chili oil caviar.
Asian Bass / IMAGE from Aurora
For the main courses, Iberico Pork features Joselito Iberico pork glazed with fermented guava barbecue, paired with hoja santa chimichurri and pork jus. The experience culminates with Beef, a 48-hour braised Angus beef short rib served with green curry and pineapple heirloom rice.
Iberico Pork / IMAGE from Aurora
Beef / IMAGE from Aurora
To close the tasting menu, guests are treated to Banana, a dessert composed of banana compote, banana sponge, custard, and Davao milk chocolate that balances sweetness with depth of flavor.
The Aurora culinary team is led by Executive Chef Mark Jesraelle Sanchez, Sous Chef Danielle Lim, and Mixologist Jomer Calangian. Inspired by their culinary travels and adventures, the team works hand in hand with local farmers and fisherfolk to source the freshest ingredients.
From left to right: Sous Chef Danielle Lim, Executive Chef Mark Jesraelle Sanchez, and Mixologist Jomer Calangian / IMAGE from Aurora
Chef Mark’s philosophy of innovation and respect for ingredients shines through each course, featuring locally and sustainably-sourced produce. From the mushroom consomme with Cordilleran truffle to the 48-hour braised Angus short ribs each dish is a journey of flavors and textures.
Chef Mark, who has over 15 years of culinary experience, has honed his craft in some of the Philippines’ most dynamic kitchens, including Brasserie Cicou, Your Local, Hey Handsome, Essential Goodness, Beso-Beso, Ninyo Fusion Cuisine, and as R&D Chef for Agimat and Golden Gibbon. A graduate of the Global Culinary & Hospitality Academy, Chef Mark is known for creating ingredient-driven menus that reflect both global influences and refined creativity.
Planning your next big celebration? The Main Dining Area at Aurora can accommodate 30 to 35 guests, with a consumable rate of Php 80,000 on weekdays and Php 90,000 on weekends for lunch, and Php 105,000 on weekdays and Php 120,000 on weekends for dinner, making it an ideal setting for memorable gatherings and special occasions.
Main Dining Area / IMAGE from Aurora
Bar / IMAGE from Aurora
Meanwhile, Aurora’s private room can accommodate 10 to 12 guests with a Php 20,000 consumable rate, while the semi-private room, which serves as an extension of the Main Dining Area, can host 16 to 20 guests with a Php 30,000 consumable fee. Both rates are inclusive of VAT but exclusive of a 10% service charge and any applicable discounts.
Private Room / IMAGE from Aurora
With its Michelin Guide recognition, thoughtfully curated tasting menu, and elegant setting in the heart of Makati, Aurora offers a dining experience that brings together creativity, technique, and heartfelt inspiration. From ingredient-driven dishes to a refined yet welcoming atmosphere, the restaurant reflects the vision of honoring both culinary craft and meaningful gatherings—making it a memorable destination for intimate celebrations, special occasions, and exceptional meals shared with family and friends.
