Blackbird in Makati: Fine Dining Experience in the Historic Neilson Tower

Originally the home to the country’s first commercial airport—Manila International Airport—the Neilson Tower remains to be the only pre-World War II structure in Makati. This historic building now houses Blackbird, one of the most sophisticated dining and leisure destinations in the city.

Located within Ayala Triangle Gardens, this aviation-themed restaurant is helmed by Scottish Chef Colin Mackay, a highly respected chef and restaurateur based in the Philippines. Since opening Sala Restaurant in Makati in 1997—now recognized in the Michelin Guide for its modern European cuisine—Mackay has continued to shape the local dining scene with concepts such as People’s Palace, Sala Bistro, and Blackbird.

IMAGE from Philippine Primer

Blackbird’s interior has been carefully redeveloped while preserving the building’s historic character. The stunning The Grill Room is the main oval dining room is filled with natural light during the day, with its high ceilings and well-spaced tables creating an airy and relaxed atmosphere.

The spiral staircase leads guests to The Cabin, an intimate private dining space upstairs while at the rear of the building, guests can also enjoy the Garden & Terrace area. The covered terrace offers a charming outdoor setting, while the wooden deck at the front can accommodate additional guests when weather permits—making it an ideal spot for relaxed gatherings or evening drinks.

IMAGE from Blackbird

Blackbird’s menu is inspired by international cuisines, expertly combining flavors from Asia and Europe. Here are some of the must-order dishes:

The Tuna Poké, Crispy Rice, and Lime Custard (Php 480) is an amazing starter that has fresh diced tuna on top of a bed of crispy rice and garnished with thinly sliced radishes and microgreens for a delightful contrast of textures and colors. A smooth lime custard is artfully drizzled on the side that offers a tangy twist, perfectly complementing the savory and crisp elements of the dish.

Tuna Poké, Crispy Rice, and Lime Custard (Php 480) / IMAGE from Blackbird

The Prawn Scotch Eggs, Betel Leaves, and Coconut Chili Sambal (Php 320), meanwhile, are sweet, bitter, spicy and wonderful at the same time. This little munchies were bursting with flavors that we ate it all in one go. The best way to eat this is to wrap the prawn scotch egg to the betel leaves and enjoy.

Prawn Scotch Eggs, Betel Leaves, and Coconut Chili Sambal (Php 320) / IMAGE from Blackbird’s Instagram account

One of the signature dishes is The Blackbird Burger (Php 980) featuring Mayura Station Wagyu, havarti cheese, pickles, jalapeño mayo, and thrice-cooked chips. It was such a delicious main and just simply sensational. 

The Blackbird Burger (Php 980) / IMAGE from Philippine Primer

Blackbird also offers other notable pizza dishes such as the Confit Tomato, Anchovy, Chili, Oregano and Stracciatella (Php 990) and the Mushroom, Guanciale, Fontina, Thyme and Truffle Oil (Php 820), both showcasing the restaurant’s ability to blend rich European flavors with refined culinary techniques.

Confit Tomato, Anchovy, Chili, Oregano and Stracciatella (Php 990) and the Mushroom, Guanciale, Fontina, Thyme and Truffle Oil (Php 820)/IMAGE from Blackbird’s Instagram account

Don’t leave without trying Blackbird’s desserts such as their version of the Baked Alaska (Php 480). The burnt layer of meringue and the ice cream inside was perfectly executed. The addition of strawberry, mango, or passion fruit syrup in this dessert is a sure hit!

Baked Alaska (Php 480) / IMAGE from Philippine Primer

For those looking to celebrate special moments or occasions, Blackbird provides an exquisite setting that enhances any gathering with exceptional cuisine and a charming atmosphere. The 2nd floor of the venue accommodates up to 22 guests, with rental fees of Php 40,000 for lunch  10 % service charge and Php 80,000 for dinner, making it an ideal choice for intimate gatherings and celebrations.

The entire restaurant can also be rented and can accommodate up to 180 guest with rentals fees of Php 250,000 (Weekdays)/Php 350,000 (Weekends) for lunch and Php 550,000/Php 650,000 (Peak Season from November to March) for dinner.

2nd Floor of Blackbird / IMAGE from Blackbird

Blackbird is a highly recommended place especially if you are celebrating an occasion with your loved ones. The ambiance, food presentation plus the history of the place are enough reasons to try this fine dining restaurant in the Ayala Triangle Gardens.

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