JT's MANUKAN GRILLE KALAYAAN AVE. QUEZON CITY — Restaurant in Quezon City

We had brunch at JT Manukan in Kalayaan. We arrived just as they opened, making us their first customers of the day. The ambiance was inviting, with a laid-back yet lively atmosphere. The setup of the place gave us the impression that it’s a popular spot at night, especially with the presence of a bar offering a variety of alcoholic drinks. You could easily imagine how the nightlife here comes alive, with people gathering for drinks, good food, and possibly some music.

For our meal, we ordered the Grilled Chicken Leg and Laing. The Laing was particularly impressive—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. It had just the right amount of spice, making it the perfect partner for rice. It was so good that we found ourselves wanting to order extra rice just to enjoy more of its sauce. The chicken, on the other hand, was decent but slightly underwhelming in terms of seasoning. Compared to some of their competitors, it seemed to lack a bit of that bold, smoky, and well-marinated taste that makes inasal-style chicken stand out. While it was still enjoyable, we felt that it could use a bit more flavor to really elevate the dish. Additionally, their meals don’t come with unlimited rice, which some might find a downside, especially for those who enjoy pairing inasal with extra servings of rice.

What really stood out, however, was their dipping sauces. The combination of chicken oil, soy sauce, vinegar, and chili added a burst of flavor that significantly enhanced the meal. Even though the chicken was a bit on the milder side in terms of seasoning, the sauces made up for it, making every bite enjoyable. We also tried their Liempo, which turned out to be one of the highlights of our meal. It had a deliciously sweet and savory marinade, with just the right amount of char from the grill. The meat was tender and flavorful, making it a must-try. However, one thing we noticed was that the portion sizes were relatively small, good for just one person. Given the serving sizes, the pricing felt a bit on the higher side. While the food was tasty, the portions may not be as generous as some might expect.

Overall, JT Manukan in Kalayaan is a solid choice if you’re looking for good food and a casual spot to hang out. It’s particularly great for those who want to grab drinks and unwind after a long day. However, if you’re planning to have a quiet meeting or a serious catch-up session with friends, it might not be the best option, especially at night when the place could get quite noisy. With the presence of a bar and possibly loud music or karaoke, the vibe is more suited for social gatherings rather than a peaceful dining experience.

There are still plenty of dishes on their menu that we have yet to try, and as with any restaurant, some items might be a hit while others could be a miss. But that’s just our personal experience—everyone’s tastes are different, so it’s definitely worth visiting and trying it out for yourself. If you’re in the mood for some Filipino comfort food in a lively setting, this place is a...

Kalayaan Branch is my favorite among all JT’s Inasal branches in the metro. Aside from the food (which is always good!), it’s the vibe and the great service that make me keep coming back. The staff are always friendly and polite.

And today, it has once again proven why it’s my favorite. I was with my brother, who is Muslim, along with his daughter. Kuya Jay, who was taking our order, noticed that my niece was wearing a hijab. Out of respect, he immediately informed my brother that their grill is used for chicken, pork, and fish. My brother didn’t even ask, Kuya Jay proactively mentioned it out of consideration for our Muslim brothers and sisters. That small gesture spoke volumes about his honesty, respect, and professionalism.

I really admire his honesty and thoughtfulness. It’s rare to see that kind of care these days, especially in a busy place. Big respect to Kuya Jay for doing the right thing!

I hope JT’s Kalayaan Branch keeps this kind of service. It would be nice if they can have separate grills for pork, chicken, and fish someday so it’s more Halal-friendly. And I also hope other JT’s branches will do the same, showing the same respect and honesty, and maybe also consider my suggestion. Small things like this really make a...

Nestled in the heart of Kalayaan, JT's Manukan Grille is a culinary gem that promises a feast for the taste buds. The aroma of their food, especially the flavorful Bulalo in Cansi, is enough to entice any discerning palate. Each bite is a journey into a world of taste, a testament to the culinary expertise that defines this establishment.

Beyond the delectable menu, the vibe of JT's Manukan Grille is a unique blend of warmth and relaxation. The alfresco setting adds an extra layer of charm, creating an oasis where you can savor your meal amidst the refreshing open air.

A notable detail is that this culinary haven is said to be owned by Joel Trinidad, the actor that is, reflected in the JT initials. This personal touch adds a layer of authenticity to the dining experience, as if you're being welcomed into Joel Trinidad's own culinary haven.

For those seeking not just a meal but a culinary adventure, JT's Manukan Grille in Kalayaan is a must-visit. It's where tasty delights, a welcoming ambiance, and a touch of personal charm come together to create an experience that's nothing short of exceptional. #JTsManukanGrilleKalayaan #CulinaryDelight #AlfrescoOasis...