Mantra Indian Kitchen & Bar in Makati: Serving Northern Indian Cuisine

Founded in 2016 by Ranjit Chimni, Mantra began as a small, tucked-away neighborhood restaurant with just 25 seats and a bold vision: to bring an authentic, vibrant Indian dining experience to Manila.

Recognizing a gap in the city for truly authentic Indian cuisine, Mantra was built on three guiding principles: keep it fresh, keep it authentic, and keep it fun.

IMAGE from Mantra Indian Kitchen & Bar

Through steady growth, word of mouth, and the loyalty of guests, Mantra has evolved into two locations, one at The Grand Midori in Makati and another at Molito Lifestyle Center in Alabang, continuing to serve bold flavors and a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the spirit of India.

IMAGE from Mantra Indian Kitchen & Bar

Mantra serves Northern Indian comfort food—the kind that warms your soul and keeps you coming back for more. Everything is made fresh daily, from spices and marinades to slow-cooked curries, crafted in-house with passion and care.

IMAGE from Mantra Indian Kitchen & Bar

Alongside bold, vibrant flavors, they keep the atmosphere warm and welcoming, like stepping into a friend’s home, with interiors that are fresh, elevated, and thoughtfully designed. It’s a place where great food meets a refined yet relaxed setting, creating an experience that is both deeply comforting and elegantly inviting.

IMAGE from Mantra Indian Kitchen & Bar

The menu offers a wide variety of dishes, from tandoori specials and specialty curries to rice and biryanis, Indian breads, and desserts. Mantra also caters to different dietary needs with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, as well as vegan-friendly and gluten-free dishes. Known for its reasonable prices and generous portions, the restaurant’s offerings are ideal for sharing—perfect for groups of two to three people.

For their tandoori specials, the Kur Kuri Bhindi (Php 445) is a must-try—spicy, crispy fried okra coated in gram flour and fragrant spices, offering a delightful crunch in every bite.

Kur Kuri Bhindi (Php 445) / IMAGE from Mantra Indian Kitchen & Bar’s Facebook page

For their specialty curries, guests can enjoy the Chicken Makhani (Php 595), featuring tandoor-roasted marinated chicken fillet in a rich, creamy tomato and cashew sauce. Pair it with Jeera Rice, a fragrant cumin-infused rice, for a perfectly balanced and aromatic meal that complements the curry beautifully.

Chicken Marhani (Php 595) / IMAGE from Mantra Indian Kitchen & Bar’s Facebook page

If it’s biryani you’re looking for, Mantra’s Mutton Biryani (Php 725) is a must-try. This hearty dish features tender mutton layered with fragrant rice, aromatic spices, and herbs, creating a deeply flavorful and satisfying meal that showcases the richness of traditional Indian cooking.

Mutton Biryani (Php 725) / IMAGE from Mantra Indian Kitchen & Bar

Make sure to try Mantra’s fun appetizers and refreshing alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks that add that Indian flair to your happy hour.

IMAGE from Mantra Indian Kitchen & Bar

Behind the kitchen are trained Indian expat chefs, each bringing years of experience and deep knowledge of authentic Northern Indian cooking. They ensure that every dish stays true to tradition—balanced, aromatic, and genuinely Indian.

Beyond cooking, they also mentor and train the Filipino culinary team, helping them understand the craft, culture, and consistency that define Mantra’s cuisine. This collaboration keeps every plate aligned with the high standards set at Mantra.

In every sense, Mantra is more than just a place to dine. It is a celebration of culture, comfort, and connection. From its humble beginnings to its growing presence in Manila’s culinary scene, the restaurant remains rooted in its promise to serve food that is honest, soulful, and deeply satisfying.

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