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.
IMAGE from Philippine Primer
Located at The Nielson Tower in Ayala Triangle, this Aviation-theme restaurant is operated by Scottish chef Colin Mackay, who is also the restaurateur behind Sala along Ayala Avenue and People’s Palace in Greenbelt 3.
Blackbird’s interior has been lavishly redeveloped while maintaining the integrity of the original Art Deco design. It has a bright, spacious interior that highlights sleek black accents, expansive windows, and crisp white walls that give off a sophisticated vibe. The spiral staircase, a striking centerpiece of the restaurant, adds a touch of elegance and curiosity, which lead up to more intimate dining areas. The second floor has a 22-seating function room that can be booked for private dining.
Fun fact: The top floor of the restaurant used to be the control tower of the airport.
IMAGE from Blackbird
Blackbird menu was inspired by international cuisines that were suitable to the airport theme. Here are some of the must-order dishes:
Tuna Poké, Crispy Rice and Lime Custard / IMAGE from Blackbird
The elegant presentation of these starters are quite impeccable. The tuna poke is an amazing starter 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 that perfectly complements the savory and crisp elements of the dish.
Prawn Scotch Eggs / IMAGE from Blackbird
The Prawn Scotch Eggs, meanwhile, were sweet, bitter, spicy and wonderful at the same time. This little munchies were bursting with flavours 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.
The Blackbird Burger / IMAGE from Blackbird
One of the signature dishes is the Blackbird Burger. It has havarti cheese, pickles, jalapeño mayo, and thrice-cooked chips. It was such a delicious main and just simply sensational. The wagyu patty was juicy and the fries on the side were crispy.
Baked Alaska / IMAGE from Blackbird
Don’t leave without trying Blackbird’s desserts such as their version of the Baked Alaska. The burnt layer of meringue and the ice cream inside was perfectly executed. You’ll surely love the addition of strawberry, raspberry, and passion fruit syrup in this one too!
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.
