Cafe Cubana — Restaurant in Makati

Horrible, horrible place. In front near the street are outside seats full of people smoking like chimneys, so not liking the smell of cigarettes while eating, I went inside to order and eat my lunch. Was the only customer inside. Start eating my lunch, when this guy comes from outside and sits at the table next to me, and starts smoking. Now, I’ve been in the Phils for many years, and know that smoking inside an enclosed restaurant has been illegal since the early 2000’s. I complained to the supervisor Natalie, about this guy who chose not to smoke outside, but INSIDE. She tried to tell me that it’s allowed, why is false. When I informed her I knew the law, and that both she and the other customer were breaking it, she tried to get me to move my lunch to the Filling Station! So I’m halfway through my meal, and instead of asking the guy to smoke outside with the rest of the smokers, she expects me to move lol. Insane. So then she says it’s management policy to allow smoking inside. I said it’s not up to her or the management, it’s against the law and health regulations under the Makati Portal. Anyhow, I had 6 others join me at the hotel later that day. We stayed a week, and that’s a weeks worth of business they missed out on because we gave them no business. Natalie is a weak supervisor, protecting smokers instead of a customer trying to enjoy a meal. The place is disgusting, smells like smoke, and it’s crazy that in 2025 this place allows smoking indoors where people are eating. I feel for the young staff who have to work in that unhealthy environment. A formal complaint has been made with the Manila Health Department, who’ve said they will investigate. But I don’t they will, as this place acts as though immune to the law, so is probably owned by...

Id like to start out my review with that I've been here multiple times and it's always been good. Tonight was the exception and why they lost my business forever. Today I visited the establishment and I had one drink. I asked for another drink multiple times ( not drunk ) asking not just one server but multiple servers. I was ignored every time and everyone else around me was served before I was. Maybe it's because I was in a sweatshirt? And slacks? Why not treat every guest the same? The servers here created an issue bigger than themselves. I sat there patiently for over an hour trying to get a drink. Then when they finally acknowledged me as a guest, I asked for my tab and they tried bringing me the drink I asked for. When I told them I did not want the drink they asked if I wanted the tab them proceeded to not even bring me the tab. So I resorted to finally walking out after confronting them. That's when they finally cared. They would not let me leave without paying for the beer. Well no shit? The supervisor was professional at first but soon turned into a douchebag. The staff sucks and he is willing to get to the bottom of the issue as he says but do absolutely nothing to appease the guest. All that I caused was a commotion that ended with. We call tourist police or you pay. Brother all I ever wanted to do was pay and leave? Get your shit straight. If you guys can't handle a high volume of customers and just resort to standing around after multiple glares and request. Get a new staff that wants the job? The food is overpriced. The service sucks. From staff that's there all the time. I don't recommend coming here. Thanks for a terrible...

Café Cubana in Poblacion, Makati is a standout destination that delivers far more than your typical café-bar experience. From the moment you enter, you're embraced by a warm, rustic ambiance with soft lighting, vintage wood, and live music that adds just the right touch of energy without overwhelming conversation.

The service was flawless. A special mention goes to Marilyn, who truly elevated the evening. Her timing was impeccable, always present when needed but never intrusive. She anticipated our needs before we even voiced them, and her genuine warmth and professionalism made us feel right at home.

The food was just as impressive. The Classic Cubano sandwich was a highlight with perfectly balanced flavors, beautifully pressed bread, and a generous portion of tender roast pork with tangy mustard and pickles. The cocktails were crafted with care, visually stunning and full of layered, thoughtful flavors.

What sets Café Cubana apart is its atmosphere. The live music created a vibe that was both elegant and vibrant. It felt like stepping into a scene from a film where every detail, from the décor to the rhythm of the band, came together seamlessly.

This place doesn’t just serve food and drinks. It delivers a memorable experience. Perfect for date nights, intimate gatherings, or anyone who appreciates quality, charm, and attention to detail. Café Cubana is now firmly on my list of must-visit spots...