Sampiro Park Bistro — Restaurant in Makati

Tucked in the posh and serene area of Salcedo Village, Makati, Sampiro is a delightful surprise. Initially mistaken for just a bar, the establishment revealed itself as a chic cafeteria with a stylish blend of elegance and whimsy. The neon pink signage, descriptive accents, and thoughtfully curated decor, including beautiful light fixtures, well-designed bathrooms, and an impressive bar setup, create an ambiance that’s both cozy and posh. With seating options ranging from a 10-person bar to spacious indoor and outdoor areas, Sampiro effortlessly balances functionality and flair.

The Experience: Upon entering, we were warmly greeted by the amazing staff, who seated us promptly and engaged us in pleasant conversation. Their knowledge of the menu and genuine hospitality immediately stood out. The menu offers an impressive array of choices, from coffee and snacks to hearty mains and an upcoming panaderia concept, which I’m eager to see unfold.

The Coffee: We ordered a hot latte for myself and a sweetened iced latte for my niece, Angela. The barista not only accommodated us with enthusiasm but also adjusted the iced latte to suit Angela’s taste, considering her being 13. The hot latte arrived beautifully presented, its intricate latte art matched by its rich, balanced flavor. One sip, and I was hooked—it’s easily among the best lattes I’ve had. The blend, a mix of locally sourced and international beans, was exceptional. Angela described her iced latte as “very refreshing,” with just the right sweetness to complement the coffee’s boldness.

The Dessert: We also tried their chocolate bar dessert, which was a revelation. The decadent, melting chocolate paired with ripe banana slices delivered a party of flavors with each bite. While I’m not a fan of bananas, this pairing was unexpectedly delightful. That said, a twist like turon would be a fun, culturally representative addition. My niece loved it and managed to finish most of the generous portion, though it was so filling that we couldn’t completely finish it.

Overall: Sampiro impressed me on all fronts: coffee, service, ambiance, and dessert. The warmth and professionalism of the staff, coupled with the standout coffee and innovative menu, make it a must-visit spot. I’m already planning to return to explore their mains.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) Verdict: A hidden gem that deserves a spot on every coffee and food...

If you’re looking for the perfect blend of flavor, ambiance, and style in Makati, Sampiro is the spot to be. This Asian fusion restaurant delivers an exceptional dining experience from start to finish.

The food? Absolutely delicious. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared with a creative twist on traditional Asian flavors—bold, balanced, and beautifully plated. Whether you’re in the mood for small plates to share or something heartier, everything we tried was packed with flavor and finesse.

The cocktails are just as impressive. Sampiro takes mixology seriously, offering a high-level cocktail selection that complements the menu perfectly. Think unique flavor combinations, premium ingredients, and stunning presentation—ideal for sipping slowly while enjoying the vibe.

Speaking of which, the ambiance here is top-tier. The decor strikes the perfect balance between modern chic and cozy charm, making it an ideal backdrop whether you’re out for an intimate dinner or a lively night with friends. Add to that a great playlist, warm lighting, and a buzzing but not overwhelming atmosphere.

Service is another highlight. The staff is friendly, attentive, and clearly passionate about what they do. Every interaction felt genuine, and the attention to detail really made the night special.

Located in one of Makati’s nicer areas, Sampiro is the kind of place you’ll want to keep coming back to—for dinners, drinks, conversations, or all of the above. Highly...

Near-perfect.

No restaurant is perfect, but Sampiro comes darn close.

Food was fantastic, service was great (along with a gentle reminder that PWD IDs without signature and photos are not accepted, but they’d let my friend’s use this time slide), and the interiors were terrific. I felt like I was stepping inside a resto in SoHo, really.

As a history buff, allow me to answer your question that was also my question and which happened to be the question of Joba Botana of Manila Standard as well - “What does Sampiro mean? Why did you choose the name?”

“There is actually a nice story behind that. Back in the 1600s, the Makati area was called Sanctuario de San Pedro, under the jurisdiction of Franciscan priest Fr. Pedro De Alfaro. When it became an independent town in 1670, it was renamed San Pedro de Makati in honor of its patron saint. The locals, however, gave it a nickname and called it Sampiro, a colloquial yet more welcoming term. We just love the charm and the connection it has for the kind of concept we had in mind for this place,” Ian [one of the owners] shared. Sampiro, indeed, is a homage to the hospitality and charm of classic Manila.”

Honestly, I’ll be glad to be back in...