What should I order at Ilustrado Restaurant?
Ilustrado Restaurant
Paella
Most frequently praised across the reviews, with mentions of Paella Ilustrado, Paella A’l Bagnet, Paella With Bagnet, and simply paella. Reviewers consistently describe it as exceptional, flavorful, generously portioned, and one of the best dishes at the restaurant.
Beef Salpicao
Recommended multiple times for being tender, flavorful, and well-executed. Reviewers specifically highlight the properly seared beef and say it was a definite highlight among the starters.
Lengua Con Setas
Called the absolute highlight by one reviewer, this dish is recommended for its perfectly tender ox tongue and rich mushroom sauce, with praise for its deep, comforting, and balanced flavor.
Croquetas
Mentioned positively as a nice starter and a good appetizer, though one reviewer found them less memorable than other dishes. Still recommended based on repeated mention and favorable comments.
Halo-Halo
Recommended as a dessert that stood out for its enjoyable mix of flavors, especially the taro ice cream and sweet potato slices, which were specifically praised as a nice touch.
Dinuguan
Strongly recommended by a reviewer who said they would return specifically for it. It was described as very homey and one of the best recipes, especially when paired with the puto.
Puto
Recommended alongside the dinuguan for its elevated, home-cooked taste. The combination was especially praised as a comforting Filipino meal.
Tanigue In Turmeric Cream
Praised for its amazing sauce and perfectly cooked fish, making it one of a reviewer’s favorite dishes and a standout seafood option.
Location details
744 Cabildo Street, corner Recoletos St, Manila, Metro Manila, 1002, PH
Open in Google MapsHours
| Monday | 8 AM to 10 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 8 AM to 10 PM |
| Wednesday | 8 AM to 10 PM |
| Thursday | 8 AM to 10 PM |
| Friday | 8 AM to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 8 AM to 10 PM |
| Sunday | 9 AM to 6 PM |
About Ilustrado Restaurant
Traditional Filipino cuisine served in an old-school, Spanish-style venue with antique decor.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great tea selection
- Great wine list
- Live music
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Private dining room
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Quiet
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Brunch reservations recommended
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Usually plenty of parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is Ilustrado Restaurant known for?
Ilustrado is best known for its paella, especially the Paella Ilustrado and Paella with Bagnet, which reviewers call the standout dishes in Intramuros. The portions are often described as large enough to share, and the restaurant is also praised for its historic setting and attentive service.
What dishes are most recommended at Ilustrado Restaurant?
Reviewers most often recommend the paella variations, Lengua con Setas, Beef Salpicao, and Paella with Bagnet. Other frequently praised items include dinuguan with puto, palabok, croquetas, and sampaguita ice cream, with several guests noting that the mains are flavorful and the portions are generous.
What is the atmosphere like at Ilustrado Restaurant?
The atmosphere is described as historic, cozy, quiet, romantic, and upscale, with a restored old building and elegant interiors. It suits date nights, relaxed lunches or dinners, and groups, especially for people visiting Intramuros who want a refined but not stiff setting.
Is Ilustrado Restaurant good value, and what is the price range?
Ilustrado falls in the ₱500 to ₱1,500 range, and reviewers say it can feel pricey, but the large portions and solid execution make it good value for money. Several comments mention that one paella can be shared by 2 to 3 people, which helps offset the cost.
What should I know before visiting Ilustrado Restaurant?
Reservations are recommended for brunch, lunch, and dinner, and one reviewer noted the place looked fully reserved even though they still got a table. It is a popular stop in Intramuros, so going with a booking is the safest way to avoid waiting.
Is parking available at Ilustrado Restaurant?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Is Ilustrado Restaurant kid-friendly?
Yes, Ilustrado Restaurant is good for kids.
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