I first discovered this incredible pizza spot through an article in Apple News back in September 2024. The article highlighted a Washington, D.C. pizza joint that made the top 100 pizzerias in the world, and as I scrolled through the list, I was surprised to see a pizzeria in the Philippines make the cut. Knowing we’d be traveling to Manila in January, I saved the article for future reference.

Fast forward to New Year’s Day lunch (and celebrating my 40th birthday!), and we were on our way to a mano, ranked #70 on Time Out’s list of the world’s best pizzas. Located just outside the Power Plant Mall, the restaurant had a charming ambiance with both indoor and outdoor seating. We opted to sit inside, where we were promptly greeted and seated by the friendly and efficient staff. After ordering drinks—a glass of white wine and a beer—we decided on the Caesar Salad, the An Italian Living in the Philippines: Ilonggo Chorizo Pizza, and finished with my all-time favorite, Cacio e Pepe Spaghetti.

A quick note before diving into the food: I have family in Italy and visit often, so I’ve had my fair share of authentic Italian pizza and pasta. With that in mind, I can confidently say this meal exceeded all expectations.

The Caesar Salad was exceptional, with crispy guanciale, house-made croutons, and perfectly balanced Caesar dressing. Pre-dressed to perfection, every bite had just the right amount of cheese and dressing—a flawless dish to split with my husband.

Then came the star of the meal: the pizza. My husband, a white American, was excited to try something distinctly Filipino, and the Ilonggo Chorizo Pizza did not disappoint. Topped with chorizo, onions, cheese, and a touch of basil, the flavors were beautifully balanced. But what truly stole the show was the crust—chewy, crunchy, and perfectly fired. We elevated it further with drizzles of Calabrian chili oil and hot honey, creating the ultimate trifecta of fat, heat, and salt.

As we were already getting full, the final course arrived: the Cacio e Pepe. Cooked al dente, the pasta was served in a Parmesan Reggiano bowl that we could break off and mix into the dish—though the pasta was so perfectly seasoned it didn’t need it. We didn’t manage to finish the bowl, but leaving any of it felt almost sinful.

To our delight, in between courses, the owner, who was seated nearby, treated us to two limoncellos—a birthday cheers! Then, just when we thought the experience couldn’t get better, our server Friday shared with another server, Lester, that we were celebrating my 40th birthday. Moments later, the staff surprised me with a chocolate torte topped with a candle, singing happy birthday—a very thoughtful gesture.

All that to say, we had an absolutely terrible time at this restaurant—just kidding! The staff was phenomenal, the food was spectacular, and the experience was unforgettable. If you find yourself craving Italian cuisine in Manila, a mano is the place to be. I still have two weeks left in the Philippines and fully intend to bring my mom (who also recently spent a month in Italy) when she arrives. Bravo to the chef, the owner, and the entire a mano team for making my New Year’s celebration—and the start of my 40s—so incredibly special.