Jeffreyl Ella
Google
🥇 Ambience & Setting: 9/10
Housed in the historic Nielson Tower, the setting immediately impresses. The restored Art Deco interiors, crisp white table linens, and subtle aviation touches give off a refined but not stuffy atmosphere. It's bright during the day and elegant by night—perfect for both romantic dates and elevated lunches.
🍽️ Food & Flavour: 8.5/10
🥚 Prawn Scotch Eggs on Betel Leaves
An absolute standout. Visually stunning and texturally dynamic, this dish balanced crispy coating, soft yolk, prawn mince, and earthy betel leaf surprisingly well. The added herbs and shaved shallots gave it both crunch and freshness. A creative twist on a British classic with Southeast Asian flair—playful yet refined.
⭐ Must-Try Appetizer.
🍳 Thai-Style Omelet with Rendang
A comforting main. The omelet was golden, fluffy, and nicely seasoned, served over jasmine rice on a banana leaf, which added a rustic charm. The rendang beef in the bowl was rich and tender, packing that signature sweet-spicy intensity. The sriracha-like sauce gave an optional hit of heat, allowing diners to modulate flavor.
✔ Great for a hearty lunch or local fusion cravings.
🐙 Salt & Pepper Calamari
This felt like a lighter, almost street-food-style contrast. The batter was thin and crisp, not greasy, allowing the squid to shine. The dipping sauce (with spring onion and soy-chili base) offered umami depth. It's not the most complex dish, but it’s well-executed and shareable.
👌 Crowd-pleaser for casual snacking or starters.
👥 Service: 9/10
Consistent with Blackbird’s reputation, service is expected to be warm yet professional. Dishes arrive plated like art, and the staff are usually attentive without hovering. Your table setup and presentation suggest a well-paced, considered experience.
💰 Value for Money: 7.5/10
Blackbird isn’t inexpensive but it’s not trying to be. You’re paying for an experience of culinary innovation in a historically rich setting. While some may feel portions lean modest, the quality of ingredients and presentation justify the price for a special occasion or elevated meal.
Blackbird Makati manages to offer more than just a meal—it delivers a narrative of heritage, style, and fusion cuisine.
✅ Highly recommended for those looking for a sophisticated but unpretentious dining experience in the heart of Makati.