ILLUSTRATIONS BY FRANCESCO ZORZI
Butting up against the Makati Central Business District’s luxury malls and towering skyscrapers, Legazpi Village has slowly blossomed over the last few years, thanks to thoughtful new projects—from locavore restaurants to cutting-edge galleries—that complement the easygoing energy of its leafy gardens and Sunday farmers market. Here, six locals show us how to take in a village.
Rural Kitchen of Liliw, Laguna
chef Justin Sarabia recommends…
“The ambience at Your Local is as great as the Asian fusion food it prepares. Grab a seat at the bar and watch the kitchen work its magic while you munch on the addictive beef rendang buns.”
Your Local chef Nicco Santos recommends…
“Kubo by Piopio has been a great new addition for its made-in-the-Philippines merchandise, including its cool in-house clothing brand and artisan products that show off indigenous weaving techniques.”
Kubo by Piopio head of retail Therese Tiosejo recommends…
“You can while your whole day away at The Curator Coffee & Cocktails, a specialty coffee shop that transforms into a craft cocktail bar at night. Pets are welcome, which is a huge plus for us.”
The Curator Coffee & Cocktails cofounder Bernice Tiu recommends…
“Archives d’Homme et Femme is the outlet location of Homme et Femme, a luxury retail concept known for its
designer brands and pieces that are sometimes hard to find in the Philippines. Special items from labels like A.P.C. and Rick Owens have made us loyal customers.”
Homme et Femme press officer Kolleen Feria recommends…
“One of the most prominent names in the Manila art scene, León Gallery hosts exhibits from up-and-coming and established Filipino and foreign artists. More spectacular still are its auctions, where you can score a fantastic painting or Philippine folk antiques.”
León Gallery director Jaime Ponce de León recommends…
“Pinoy dishes like mechado [braised beef] and kare-kare [stew with peanut sauce] are served at Rural Kitchen of Liliw, Laguna, but I say go for exotic fare like the pako salad—crisp mountain fern drizzled with calamansi vinaigrette and white cheese from Laguna province.”
