The Underbelly in Makati: Unique Ramen and Tsukemen Creations
From the minds behind Hanamaruken and TsukeMen, The Underbelly is one of the newer ramen shops in Makati, which serves ramen and tsukemen creations with unconventional flavor pairings that you probably have never tasted before.
Further elevating its reputation, The Underbelly has earned the MICHELIN Bib Gourmand distinction in the MICHELIN Guide Philippines—an honor given to restaurants that deliver exceptional food at great value.
IMAGE from The Underbelly
The Underbelly’s interior has smooth, curved wooden elements that create a wave-like ceiling. The muted tones of gray and beige give the place an industrial vibe, while soft, warm lighting adds a cozy yet upscale feel.
IMAGE from The Underbelly’s Facebook page
Long sharing tables with chic, rounded chairs suggest a dining experience that’s both intimate and social—perfect for meals with those who matter to you.
IMAGE from The Underbelly’s Facebook page
Among the standout offerings is Billy’s Rib (Php 680), a hearty bowl crowned with a generous bone-in rib that delivers smoky richness and satisfying tenderness.
Billy’s Rib/IMAGE from The Underbelly’s Facebook page
For those seeking something lighter yet equally memorable, The Anti-Belly (Php 440) offers a distinctive experience. This tsukemen variation pairs flat, wide noodles with a chilled sesame-based dipping sauce that’s subtly refreshing and layered in flavor. The cool, nutty profile contrasts beautifully with the richness typical of tonkotsu-based dishes, making it a must-try for adventurous diners.
The Anti-Belly / IMAGE from The Underbelly
Another crowd favorite is Belly Dip (Php 480)—a satisfying trifecta of thick noodles, seafood-based dipping sauce, and a slab of braised pork belly that diners can grill to their liking on a mini shichirin (Japanese charcoal grill). A squeeze of lime cuts through the richness, balancing each bite and allowing guests to savor the dish without palate fatigue.
Belly Dip / IMAGE from The Underbelly
To complement the meal, their Yuzu Soda, among other beverages, perfectly balances the flavors of The Underbelly’s offerings.
The experience does not end with ramen. The Underbelly shares its space with Twelve Labors Coffee, serving expertly brewed drinks made with Good Cup Daily Driver beans. Whether you’re capping off a hearty bowl with a cup of coffee or dropping by for a casual café break, the combination makes for a well-rounded dining stop in Makati.
So you’re in the mood for a unique bowl (or two!) of ramen or tsukemen, a light snack, or a quality cup of coffee with your significant other, friends, or just by yourself, The Underbelly in Makati might be the place you’re looking for.
