Booya Bagels in Makati: Redefining New York–Style Bagels in the Philippines
Born in the heart of Makati during the height of the pandemic in 2020, Booya Bagels emerged at a time when businesses were closing down.
Yet husband-and-wife team Chef Aaron Lau and Nikki Oropesa-Lau chose to build something new. From a small ghost kitchen, they introduced something Metro Manila had been missing: authentic New York–style bagels crafted the proper way, boiled, dense, chewy, and irresistibly flavorful.
IMAGE from Booya Bagels
Having previously operated the beloved Miss B’s Tuckshop, the duo knew how to create food that resonated. But Booya’s rapid rise surpassed expectations. Their hand-crafted bagels quickly drew the attention of celebrities, artists, and tastemakers craving comfort and quality.
IMAGE from Booya Bagels
By 2021, demand led them to open their first brick-and-mortar shop in Legazpi Village across Greenbelt. By 2024, Booya had expanded into full-service destinations in Glorietta, Ayala Malls Makati, and Serendra BGC, fueling an enthusiasm for bagel culture.
Glorietta Branch / IMAGE from Booya Bagels
At the heart of Booya Bagels is a dedication to craftsmanship. Every bagel is hand-rolled, boiled in malt water, and baked to perfection, resulting in that signature chewy center and crisp golden crust.
Chef Aaron didn’t aim to replicate New York; he sought to reinterpret it for the tropics. After extensive experimentation, the team developed a flour blend and adjusted their technique to complement Manila’s humidity, ensuring consistent texture and flavor year-round.
Chef Aaron Lau / IMAGE from Booya Bagels
Booya’s menu bridges authenticity, creativity, and cultural pride. Classic Plain, Sesame, and Everything Bagels remain staples, while Filipino-inspired and Asian twist creations highlight their playful approach.
The UBE Cheese Bagel, filled with ube halaya and cheese, pays tribute to beloved local flavors. The Bulgogi Bagel Sandwich, with beef bulgogi, egg, kimchi mayo, and cheddar, adds a Korean-inspired punch.
UBE Cheese Bagel (Php 120) / IMAGE from Booya Bagels
Bulgogi Bagel Sandwich (Php 510) / IMAGE from Booya Bagels
Among other crowd favorites is the Booya Lox (Php 589), layered with house-cured lox, herb & garlic schmear, onions, capers, and dill on an Everything Bagel.
Booya Lox (Php 589) / IMAGE from Booya Bagels
The Onion Bagel (Php 115) bursts with pure onion flavor, while the indulgent Breakfast Bagel Sandwich (₱385) features bacon, egg frittata, cheese, marinara, pesto, mayo, and a hint of maple syrup.
Breakfast Bagel Sandwich / IMAGE from Booya Bagels
For health-conscious diners, Booya offers equally exciting options. The Rye Bagel (Php 120) is dairy-free, vegetarian, and made with whole grains. The Plant Forward Plate is a hearty meatless meal that includes two bagels, perfect for light yet satisfying dining.
Plant Forward Plate (Php 750) / IMAGE from Booya Bagels
Meanwhile, the Caprese Bagel Sandwich, made with roasted tomatoes, mozzarella, and homemade pesto, delivers fresh, vegetarian goodness in every bite.
Caprese Bagel Sandwich (Php 336) / IMAGE from Booya Bagels
With its commitment to quality, creativity, and craft, Booya Bagels continues to transform a simple craving into one of Manila’s most compelling culinary experiences.
