Prestige Wellness BGC offers a calming retreat where modern luxury meets trusted therapeutic care.

The Mandara Spa, located at One Serendra in BGC, Taguig, offers a refined wellness experience built around carefully curated rituals and the warmth of Filipino hospitality. Known for its personalized service and layered treatments, the spa delivers immersive journeys that focus on both physical restoration and deep relaxation in a calm, thoughtfully designed setting. IMAGE […]

Tucked along one of Quezon City’s busiest food streets, Good Papa’s Home Diner invites guests to slow down and settle into the kind of meal that feels familiar in the best way.

Mak’s Noodles is now open in Ortigas at the Ground Level of Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, bringing its iconic Hong Kong–style wonton noodles to the Philippines for the first time.

Omoté, Singapore’s celebrated modern Japanese concept, is heading to Metro Manila with its signature bowls, bold flavors, and dynamic kitchen philosophy. Known for its well-priced, high-quality Japanese fare and distinct fusion style, Omoté brings a fresh wave of contemporary dining that has won over diners across generations. Opening on November 21.

The wait is finally over! Yakiniku King 焼肉きんぐ, Japan’s No. 1 yakiniku chain with over 350 restaurants in Japan, makes its international debut at SM Mall of Asia.

The Usual Coffee in Makati delivers everyday specialty coffee that’s familiar, reliable, and thoughtfully crafted. From well-made espresso drinks and playful offerings like the Cereal Latte to curated gift sets and The Usual Coffee on a Cart for events and celebrations, the brand brings quality coffee wherever it’s needed—at the café, at gatherings, and in everyday moments.

Chungdam Spa in BGC offers Korean-style massage therapies focused on effective, targeted relaxation. From its popular 90-minute Foot & Back Massage to Swedish, shiatsu, stone massage, and value-driven packages, the spa delivers practical treatments ideal for easing muscle tension and everyday stress.

Blue Lotus Spa in BGC, located at F1 Hotel, offers simple and effective massage treatments designed for everyday relaxation. From affordable foot and body massages to longer Foot & Body sessions, the spa focuses on practical techniques like stroking, kneading, and pressure-point work—making it an easy choice for stress relief and muscle recovery.

With over ten years of experience in the wellness industry, Esencia Day Spa brings a unique blend of hospitality, expertise, and heartfelt care, guided by the vision of a former cabin attendant who understands the importance of comfort, attentiveness, and well-being.

We spoke with Mr. Shun Takagi, Brother International Philippines Corp’s only Japanese national on the local team, to gain insight into this new challenge.

K1 Wellness and Beauty Spa & Salon Makati offers Persian-inspired spa treatments designed for deep relaxation and therapeutic relief. From its 90-minute K1 Signature Massage combining Thai, shiatsu, and Swedish techniques to immersive packages with charcoal foot spas and Persian baths, the spa delivers thoughtful wellness experiences ideal for gifting or personal indulgence.

Designed as a retreat from the pace of everyday life, Cocoon Spa offers an experience where stillness, intention, and tradition come together in quiet harmony.

Situated within the sophisticated ambiance of New World Makati Hotel, The Shop is a charming hotel-operated bake shop that brings together artisanal craftsmanship, premium ingredients, and an inviting atmosphere for guests and city dwellers alike.

Nestled in the elegant lobby of Shangri-La The Fort, Manila, Bake House stands out as one of BGC’s most inviting modern bakeries, an artisanal haven where quality, comfort, and craftsmanship come together seamlessly.

Aramesh Wellness in Makati offers Persian-inspired spa treatments rooted in ancient traditions of herbal therapy, aromatherapy, and therapeutic massage. Using high-grade organic essential oils and customizable techniques, the spa delivers targeted treatments—from the Aramesh Signature Massage to ventosa and bamboo therapy—designed for deep muscle relief, balance, and total body renewal.

Well Being Nature Spa Massage in Salcedo Village, Makati offers a holistic wellness experience that combines spa therapies and beauty treatments in one relaxing space. From its 90-minute WBNS Signature Massage using Chinese techniques, stretching, and heat therapy to indulgent body scrubs and flexible gift vouchers, the spa provides thoughtful, all-around care for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Here are the New Year’s Eve 2026 countdowns worth marking on your calendar!

Cedo Wellness offers an intentional pause from the daily rush, inviting guests to experience the power of heat and cold as a way to recharge the body, sharpen the mind, and restore balance through guided contrast therapy.

Japan Spa Love 湯 in Malate is a revitalized Japanese-style sauna open 24/7, offering multi-temperature soaking baths, a 90°C dry sauna, steam room, and rest areas. With flexible packages starting at ₱850 for bath and sauna access, plus massage options and Japanese-language support, it delivers an accessible and authentic bathing experience any time of day.

Located along Arnaiz Avenue, Taipei Spa operates 24 hours a day, making it a convenient escape for busy professionals, night owls, and travelers alike.

Check out EMGRAND Spa, the newest luxury lifestyle destination in Paranaque City!

Take a look at the best Christmas promos and festivities to make your season even more memorable!

The Manila Hotel Spa in Manila offers a relaxing escape inspired by Filipino healing traditions within one of the country’s most historic hotels. From the signature 90-minute Hilot Massage using warm banana leaves and coconut oil to aromatherapy, shiatsu, and Swedish treatments, the spa provides a thoughtful blend of cultural wellness and classic relaxation therapies.

Consistently honored with the prestigious Forbes Five-Star Award, NUWA Spa reflects a commitment to excellence that goes beyond indulgence, offering guests a carefully curated journey of rest, renewal, and holistic care.

At The Spa at Shangri-La, every visit unfolds as a gentle invitation to pause, unwind, and reconnect with a sense of well-being.

Illume Spa in BGC, located inside Grand Hyatt Manila, offers a refined wellness escape with private treatment rooms, shared sauna and steam facilities, and a heated pool. From the 180-minute Illume Journeys experience to the traditional Filipino Hilot Massage, the spa delivers restorative treatments designed for relaxation and renewal.

Spa at Raffles Makati is a luxury hotel spa offering Filipino-inspired wellness treatments in a calm, thoughtfully designed setting.

Conrad Spa Manila in Pasay offers a tranquil wellness escape overlooking Manila Bay, where nature-infused ISUN treatments and Filipino massage traditions come together in a calming, thoughtfully curated space. From mineral-rich baths and energy-balancing massages to restorative facials and couples’ experiences, each ritual is designed to align with the body’s natural rhythms—leaving guests refreshed, grounded, and renewed.

Here’s a clean, publication-ready **excerpt** that matches Philippine Primer’s tone and style:

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Planning your holiday feasts and outings just got easier. From gourmet grocery favorites and cozy Japanese restaurants to lifestyle and wellness spots, these establishments across Manila and beyond have announced their Christmas and New Year schedules to help you plan stress-free celebrations filled with good food, meaningful gatherings, and festive cheer.

The Peninsula Spa at The Peninsula Manila offers a calm and elegant sanctuary where wellness is rooted in both local heritage and global expertise.

Celebrate the holiday season with the elegance and abundance of Japanese cuisine—from symbolic Osechi Ryōri prepared to usher in good fortune, to generous sushi and party platters perfect for sharing. This curated list rounds up where to find beautifully prepared Japanese New Year feasts and festive platters across Metro Manila, ideal for welcoming the season with tradition, intention, and exceptional flavors.

Here are five international bakery-cafés you can visit in the Philippines today.

Tiong Bahru Bakery in BGC continues to draw pastry lovers with its handcrafted French-style offerings, from the classic Croissant and matcha-infused Green Tea Almond Croissant to the indulgent Kouign Amann. Known for its quality ingredients and meticulous technique, the Singapore-born bakery remains a favorite destination for those seeking thoughtfully made pastries in Manila.

Boracay’s dining scene is as diverse and vibrant as its famous beaches. From elegant beachfront restaurants with panoramic ocean views to cozy cafés tucked along scenic pathways, the island offers something for every palate. IMAGE from Philippine Primer Whether it’s al fresco dining under swaying palms or savoring island-inspired flavors in intimate cafés, every culinary […]

ABC-Mart continues to expand its footprint in the Philippines with the upcoming launch of the ABC-Mart Standard Store at MITSUKOSHI BGC on December 12, 2025.

Read on for our comprehensive guide to the adjusted mall hours this holiday season.

Yawaragi Pastry Boutique in Pasay, located beside the Japanese restaurant Yawaragi inside Hotel Okura Manila, offers an elegant selection of delicately baked Japanese treats and house-made bread. With its softly textured loaves available for everyday enjoyment and beautifully wrapped for gifting, the boutique reflects the quiet refinement and thoughtful craftsmanship that define Japanese pastry culture.

For those looking for sweet treats that taste good and do good, The Kind Cookie Café in Salcedo Village, Makati offers just handcrafted cookies, thoughtful café fare, and a cause baked in.

Searching for the best croissants in town? Butterboy might just be the place where your pastry dreams come true.

Baker J in Alabang brings the elegance of French baking to the city, offering expertly crafted viennoiseries, rich buttery croissants, and refined pastries made by a French chef using time-honored techniques. Paired with coffee brewed by award-winning baristas using premium Mt. Apo beans, along with a selection of plated dishes, sandwiches, cakes, and desserts, Baker J delivers a thoughtful, authentic, and indulgent café experience for every visit.

Here are 10 Japanese bakeries you need to check out for your next sweet escape.

MUJI Bakery at the Glorietta flagship store offers freshly baked Japanese and Filipino-inspired breads daily, including favorites like the Bacon and Egg Croissant and Melon Pan. A must-try is the Chocolate Croissant, a Glorietta-exclusive treat found only at this branch. Guests can also enjoy MUJI’s curated beverages from the in-store coffee counter for a simple, satisfying café experience.

Panasonic Philippines is bringing a unique and immersive showcase to shoppers this holiday season with “Spaces of True Japanese Excellence.”

Exciting news for food enthusiasts! The iconic second branch of Half Saints is opening on the ground floor of Milestone Building on 5th Ave, BGC, and it’s ready to make a big splash!

The holiday excitement is building as the World Bazaar Festival—one of the country’s biggest and longest-running Christmas shopping events—returns this December at World Trade Center Metro Manila for a milestone year. Taking place from December 12 to 21, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., this highly anticipated bazaar gathers hundreds of local and international […]

Liyab is a Filipino-forward tasting menu restaurant in BGC, introducing a quiet yet powerful approach to contemporary Filipino dining. IMAGE from Liyab’s Instagram account Perched on a roof deck space, Liyab is a tasting menu restaurant that celebrates the richness of Filipino produce through the tension of cooking with natural fire, woven with the elemental […]

Tucked quietly on the first floor of a commercial building in Makati City, 5G Coffee House has become a beloved stop for pastry lovers seeking expertly crafted croissants and quality coffee.

Set across rolling greens and a private cove in Newcoast Boracay, Fairways & Bluewater folds a complete island holiday into one address, comfortable stays, championship golf, and a broad mix of dining settings.

If you’re ready to dive deep into the gastronomic experience you can have on the island, then head on to D’Mall Boracay!

Terra Wellness Spa in Boracay, located inside Discovery Shores, is a serene retreat designed to restore balance and inner peace. Guests can indulge in the signature Terra’s Touch massage—using slow, graceful strokes and therapeutic oils—or explore a range of rejuvenating treatments inspired by Filipino healing traditions.

Founded by Annabel Jayne L. Tanco in 2001, Bizu Patisserie and Café in Alabang Town Center has long been a beloved name in Manila’s dessert and café scene.

Pan-onymous has quickly earned a loyal following in Metro Manila, thanks to its commitment to bringing authentic Japanese-style bread to the Philippines.

Discover Metro Manila’s new generation of bakeries where sourdough craftsmanship, French-style viennoiserie, and innovative Filipino flavors come together. From small-batch workshops to stylish pastry boutiques, this list highlights eight trendsetting spots every bread lover should try now.

Supporting communities has long been a core mission of Standard Hospitality Group, and this commitment is once again at the forefront as countless families continue to recover from the devastation brought by Typhoons Tino, Uwan, and Verbena.

Atelier Matcha Philippines in Cebu brings a refined, technique-driven approach to Japanese matcha, offering drinks crafted with precision using premium Uji matcha from Kyoto. 

Nestled within the luxurious Mandarin Bay Resort & Spa at Station 2, Boracay, Mamma Mia Ristorante Italiano brings the authentic flavors of Italy to the island’s vibrant beachfront.

Nestled along the sands of Station 3 in Boracay, Giuseppe Pizzeria & Sicilian Roast has carved out its place as a go-to destination for authentic Italian fare with a seaside twist.

Tucked away in a nostalgic, old-style building in Station 3, Subo Boracay invites guests into a uniquely Filipino dining experience that honours the flavours of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

The Pig Out Bistro in Boracay blends island charm with refined dining, serving elevated comfort food made with local ingredients.

Located beachfront at Station 1 inside Seaworthy Boracay, Percy Seafood redefines island dining with its fresh, locally sourced seafood and stunning ocean views. From comforting classics like Clam and Corn Chowder to flavorful stews and grills, every dish celebrates Boracay’s vibrant coastal flavors and relaxed charm.

Tomono Kissa in Salcedo Village brings the charm of a Japanese café to Makati, offering handcrafted breads and comforting classics by Chef Ono. Highlights include the soft Angel Shokupan, Hokkaido red bean–filled Anpan, and silky Custard Cream Bread—available both in-store and at Minna no Sup

Tucked away beyond the bustle of White Beach, Diniwid Beach in Boracay offers a quiet coastal escape. Known for its peaceful charm, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets, this hidden cove invites visitors to slow

The newly upgraded OFW Lounge at NAIA Terminal 1 is opening soon, offering a refreshed and more comfortable space dedicated to the country’s modern-day heroes, Overseas Filipino Workers.

Nestled in the serene area of Bolabog, Danaru Spa Boracay offers a peaceful sanctuary for those seeking to escape the island’s bustling tourist spots.

London’s famed artisan bakery Bread Ahead Bakery is set to open its first Philippine branch in 2025, bringing its iconic sourdough loaves, beloved cream-filled donuts, and renowned baking school to local shores. Founded in Borough Market by chef Matthew Jones, the brand partners with Good Eats Specialists Inc. for its Manila debut—an exciting addition to the country’s rapidly growing artisan bread scene.

Scratch in Makati has grown from a pandemic-born sourdough project into one of the most respected artisan bakeries. Known for its signature Seeded Sourdough and classic chocolate chip cookies, the brand now caters high-profile events and hosts wildly popular weekend brunches.

KIJI Bakehouse in BGC offers a selection of sweet and savory croissants, pizza, Danish, and coffee, perfect for breakfast!

Masa Madre Bakehouse is built upon a legacy, one that begins with a 59-year-old levain, a natural sourdough starter gifted to Chef Kris Edison Tan by his Japanese mentor, Chef Nogami.

Maker and Made emerges as a standout café-bakery that fuses the laid-back essence of Australian brunch culture with the vibrant, resourceful spirit of the Philippines.

Singular Manila in BGC offers a tasting journey that blends Spanish heritage with Manila’s modern rhythm. Led by Fernando Alcalá—one of the few chefs worldwide with double Michelin Guide recognition across two countries—and executive chef Edu Fuentes, the restaurant reimagines traditions from Andalucía to Castilla–La Mancha through dishes crafted with intention, memory, and fire. With its warm, lived-in aesthetic and storytelling-driven cuisine, Singular Manila delivers an experience that feels both familiar and entirely new.

Minami Saki By Astoria in Ortigas delivers a fresh and exquisite Japanese dining experience, highlighted by its best-selling Aburi Sushi—flame-seared to perfection for rich, smoky flavor and delicate sweetness. Guests also enjoy standout dishes like the ultra-fresh Sake Sashimi and the refined Yaki Hotategai to Komugiko Purée, all served in a serene, Japanese-inspired setting designed for elegant and memorable dining.

Located along the beachfront of Station 3, Haraan Boracay brings a refreshing take on Filipino turo-turo dining—vibrant, relaxed, and rooted in local flavor.

Flash Ramen brings bold Japanese flavors to Quezon City with Tonkotsu and Shoyu ramen, Ichiran-style solo booths, and a lineup of hearty donburi bowls. This new QC hotspot serves fast, flavorful, and authentic Japanese comfort food in every visit.

Nestled along the powder-white sands of White Beach, Station 2 on Boracay Island, OM Boracay seamlessly blends beach-chic dining and high-energy nightlife in one vibrant coastal destination.

Nestled along the pristine sands of Station 1 on White Beach in Boracay, Aplaya the Beach Bar & Italian Food is a charming seaside spot that perfectly blends Italian flavors with tropical island vibes.

Cafe Got Soul in Boracay captures the island’s easygoing charm with soulful dishes like the Got Soul Quinoa Bowl and Buy-1-Take-1 Smash Burgers every Wednesday.

Kurofune, a well-loved eel restaurant originating from Shinsaibashi, Osaka, continues to expand its presence in the Philippines with the opening of its newest branch in Malate, Manila.

The magic of the holidays is set to illuminate Bonifacio High Street as it launches High Street Holiday 2025

The country’s premier hi-fi exhibition is back!

For more than four decades, Crown Line Group has been a trusted name in international moving services, particularly among Japanese companies and expatriate families.

The vibrant spirit of Filipino mixology will take center stage as Metro Manila hosts the first-ever Philippine Cocktail Fiesta, a city-wide celebration bringing together nearly 100 bars from November 17 to 23, 2025.

Wasachi, Tokyo’s celebrated specialty matcha café, brings its serene tea culture to Makati with its first international branch at Power Plant Mall. From the Philippines-exclusive Mango Matcha Latte to handcrafted matcha cookies and signature hot lattes, each creation reflects Japanese craftsmanship and calm in every cup.

Seaku has quickly become one of Panglao’s most intriguing new dining rooms, a modern, seafood-forward spot in Tawala where the day’s freshest catch meets a grill and a thoughtful wine list.

The festive season just got better and brighter! This holiday season, Philippine Primer, in collaboration with various restaurants in Metro Manila, is offering exclusive reader-only promotions perfect for your year-end parties.

Japanese design meets Manila’s growing appetite for sophisticated living as miratap, a renowned home fixtures brand from Osaka, officially opens its first Philippine showroom at Greenhills Mall, San Juan.

The heart of Makati is set to come alive with color, rhythm, and irresistible Latin American flavors as Sabor Latino 2025 takes over Paseo de Roxas on November 15 and 16, 2025.

UNIQLO reopens its newly renovated BGC High Street store on November 7, 2025, unveiling a four-story flagship that offers a wider range of apparel for men, women, and children. The store features exclusive collections, limited reopening offers, and the interactive UTme! customization zone for a fresh, convenient, and enjoyable shopping experience in Bonifacio Global City.

Don’t miss this chance to enjoy premium Japanese dental care at an affordable price.

This holiday season, MITSUKOSHI BGC is bringing festive cheer to a whole new level with “Doraemon: A Sparkling Adventure.”

DMCI Homes stands as one of the Philippines’ most trusted and respected real estate developers, celebrated for its resort-inspired condominiums and thoughtfully designed residential communities. IMAGE from DMCI Homes  A proud subsidiary of DMCI Holdings, the country’s largest engineering-based conglomerate, the company builds on decades of construction expertise to deliver homes that reflect quality, comfort, […]

In this interview, Mr. Yusuke Hirano shares the Nomura Real Estate’s vision, strategy, and commitment to building sustainable, high-quality urban environments in the Philippines.

Tokyo Karaage Agetate, the Japanese-style fried chicken brand known for its freshly made offerings, proudly announces the opening of its newest branch at Ayala Malls Cloverleaf on October 3, 2025.

Dos Mestizos in Boracay redefines Spanish dining on the island with its signature Cochinillo, fresh seafood, and vibrant paellas — all served in a setting that’s as soulful as the cuisine itself.

Gyukatsu Boracay redefines Japanese dining in paradise with premium gyukatsu sets, wagyu specialties, and island hospitality — bringing the flavors of Tokyo straight to Boracay’s Laketown.

Ladurée, the French patisserie known for its macarons is returning to the Philippines with the opening of its first Southeast Asian flagship store in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) this July 2025.

DAO Realty Corporation has been connecting Japanese residents and multinational clients to premium homes and office spaces in Metro Manila for over 30 years, combining expertise, reliability, and exceptional after-service support.

Located on the 2nd floor of the K Building in Station 2, King Shrimp Boracay Seafood Restaurant brings a lively, flavor-packed seafood experience to one of the island’s busiest dining hubs.

Set along the laid-back shores of Station 3, Bistro des Amis brings a taste of Belgian and Mediterranean comfort to Boracay’s beachfront. The bistro is helmed by Belgian national Oli Stassen, whose long-standing family roots in the beer industry inspired him to plant new beginnings by the sea. IMAGE from Bistro des Amis’ Website Oli […]

In an afternoon of elegance and pride, Seiko Philippines marked a new milestone with the launch of its 6th Philippine Limited Edition timepieces, a collection inspired by the nation’s three major island groups: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.