Every visit to The Manila Hotel feels like stepping back in time—a place filled with history, elegance, and timeless charm. But aside from its storied halls and luxurious setting, one of the hotel’s most beloved gems is its iconic buffet restaurant, Café Ilang-Ilang.
I finally had the chance to indulge in its world-famous spread, and let me tell you: it wasn’t just dinner—it was a global culinary journey right in the heart of Manila.
A Feast from Around the World
As soon as I walked into Café Ilang-Ilang, I could feel the lively atmosphere. Chefs were busy at live stations, the smell of fresh food filled the room, and diners looked just as eager as I was to begin eating. I got there early, and they let us in around 11:15AM, though the buffet didn’t start until 11:30AM.
What I love about this buffet is that it’s more than a spread—it’s an experience. Each section highlights a different cuisine, making you feel like you’re traveling the world with every plate.
Italian Section
My food adventure here began with fresh pasta prepared right before my eyes. There are plenty of pizza flavors, plus salads and cold cuts to try as well.
Japanese Section
This section stood out to me because there were so many dishes to choose from. The station offered sushi, maki, and tempura. I couldn’t resist the tuna and salmon sashimi—they were so fresh they seemed to melt in my mouth. My favorite was the Salmon Aburi. I enjoyed it so much that I went back for seconds and even thirds. It was lightly torched, with a smoky flavor on the outside and a buttery texture inside. It really melts in your mouth. They also serve Miso soup and ramen as starters.
Korean and Chinese Sections
Next, I headed to the Korean and Chinese selections. The Korean station featured seaweed salad, kimchi, and egg rolls. The Chinese station felt like a dim sum paradise with siomai, dumplings, spring rolls, noodles, and juicy, tender roast duck. These sections were so hearty and filling that I had to pace myself for what was ahead.
Filipino Section
Of course, I couldn’t miss our very own Filipino flavors. This was one of my favorites because it reminded me of home. The crispy lechon was the star—skin so crunchy you could hear it crackle, with meat that was soft and flavorful. Alongside it were regional favorites and Filipino comfort food dishes like dinuguan and adobong pato sa gata, each one prepared with authenticity and pride. This section really showcased the richness of our culinary heritage.
Seafood Station
This area was overflowing with the day’s freshest haul—crabs, prawns, and mussels—served with elegance and cooked flawlessly. The butter preparation brought out the prawns’ natural sweetness, added a silky richness to the mussels, and made the crabs taste even more luxurious. A true feast for any seafood enthusiast.
Inclusive Dining for All
What stood out even more was Café Ilang-Ilang’s inclusivity in accommodating diverse diets and lifestyles.
For Muslim diners, a dedicated Halal section is thoughtfully prepared to ensure dietary requirements are met, allowing everyone to enjoy their meal with peace of mind.
For those who are health-conscious or following a plant-based lifestyle, the Vegan station is a highlight worth checking out. Their Hummus is a standout—silky, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. It was a pleasant surprise to see such variety, proving that the buffet isn’t only about indulgence but also about ensuring every guest feels included.
Sweet Temptations
What makes Café Ilang-Ilang truly remarkable goes beyond its wide selection of food—it’s the way the entire dining experience is thoughtfully curated. Each station feels like a world of its own, every dish is prepared with care, and every guest can find something made just for them.
Just when I thought I couldn’t take another bite, the dessert spread pulled me right back in—and honestly, it was worth saving room for.
From cakes in every flavor you can imagine to traditional Filipino treats like bibingka, cassava cake, and other kakanin that bring back memories of family gatherings, there was something for everyone.
Kids (and the young at heart) will love the ice cream station with both classic and creative flavors, plus freshly made crepes—light, warm, and topped just the way you like them. It was the sweetest ending to an already unforgettable meal. I walked away from the dessert counter with the biggest smile… and maybe a little too full, but in the best way possible.
@paulapinkikay Super daming food na pagpipilian sa Cafe Ilang Ilang @The Manila Hotel #CafeIlangIlang #ManilaHotel #Buffet ♬ France Accordion Swing - MIZUSATO Masaki
It’s not just a buffet—it’s a celebration of flavors, cultures, and inclusivity, making it a standout not only in Manila but across the Philippines.
Whether you’re marking a special occasion, treating your loved ones, or simply indulging in a culinary escape, Café Ilang-Ilang deserves a spot on your list. Blending luxury, comfort, and world-class dining, it promises a feast you’ll remember long after your last bite.
So when you’re in Manila and want to celebrate in style, Café Ilang-Ilang at The Manila Hotel comes highly recommended. From savory delights to decadent desserts, it’s a dining experience you’ll want to relive time and time again.
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