Skip the Traffic, Savor the View: Restaurants in the Philippines with Helipads

When traffic just won’t do or the pleasure of taking a chopper ride to lunch is reason enough: take to the skies. Whether you’re escaping the city for a seaside lunch or planning a special celebration with a cinematic arrival, these restaurants go beyond just offering great food; they’ve got private helipads, serving up the kind of entrance that sets the tone before you even see a menu.

While most helipads are available for use during the day, landing after sunset is more limited. We recommend checking in with your pilot for the most recent Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines regulations.

Here are some of the most unforgettable dining spots in and around the Philippines—best reached by air.

Nobu Manila

Consistently serving some of the best Japanese-Peruvian cuisine in the metro, Nobu Manila lives up to the global reputation of its iconic name. Nestled within City of Dreams Manila, the restaurant blends the elegance of Japanese fine dining with bold Peruvian flavors, offering an experience that’s both refined and inventive.

Signature dishes like the silky, umami-rich Black Cod Miso, fresh sashimi tacos, and beautifully executed sushi are perennial favorites, while the sleek, contemporary interiors add to the sense of occasion. Whether you’re dining inside the softly lit main room or enjoying al fresco seating by the pool, Nobu Manila remains one of the city’s most distinctive culinary destinations—especially if you’re arriving by air, thanks to the nearby helipad access within the City of Dreams complex.

City of Dreams, Level 1 Nobu North Tower, Aseana Ave, Parañaque, Metro Manila. (02) 8691 2882

Asador Alfonso

Flying into Asador Alfonso is an experience in itself. The first thing you’ll notice is the striking architecture by Carlo Calma, whose dynamic design sets the tone for what’s to come. The estate has ample space to accommodate helicopter landings by request, making it an ideal destination for those looking to arrive by chopper.

Beyond the dramatic setting, the real draw is the food. Helmed by celebrated chef Chele Gonzalez, the restaurant delivers some of the finest Castilian cuisine in the country. As its name suggests, Asador Alfonso is a true Spanish roasting house—rooted in tradition but reimagined in a contemporary, countryside setting. Expect perfectly roasted meats, bold flavors, and a dining experience that feels both rustic and refined.

 Lot-3308 Barangay road, Alfonso, 4100 Cavite.  0917 150 7621

Old Manila, The Peninsula Manila

For a fine dining experience with a touch of old-world glamor, Old Manila delivers a timeless elegance—and it’s just an elevator ride away from The Peninsula’s helipad. Housed within one of the country’s most iconic hotels, the restaurant offers a classic kind of luxury: starched white tablecloths, soft lighting, and polished service.

The menu, now under the direction of Executive Chef Remy Carmignani, leans French-European with modern sensibilities—think delicate foie gras, caviar, and artfully plated desserts. While it doesn’t flaunt trends, Old Manila continues to hold its own with confident restraint and meticulous technique, making it an enduring destination for power lunches, intimate celebrations, or simply a return to classic, white-tablecloth dining.

The Peninsula Manila, Corner of Ayala and Makati Avenues, Makati City, Metro Manila.  +63 2 8887 2888

Cowrie Cove Seafood Bar and Grill

A getaway just a quick helicopter ride away from Manila to Shangri-La Mactan’s helipad, Cowrie Cove at delivers a relaxed ambience in a calm, coastal setting, furthered by its tropical feel, crisp sea air, and attentive service.

The menu stays true to tradition—grilled steaks, shellfish, and all the trimmings are among the staples—prepared with gusto and a focus on quality. Guests can arrive via the resort’s helipad with prior arrangement, making it a convenient and memorable destination for long lunches under the sun or for special gatherings by the sea. It’s an ideal setting for those who appreciate well-executed, grilled comfort food.

 Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu. (032) 231 0288

Finestra, Solaire Resort Paranaque

Just minutes by air from Makati or BGC, Finestra at Solaire Resort offers a sleek, upscale take on Italian dining in the heart of Entertainment City. With soaring ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an open kitchen, the restaurant balances grandeur with a relaxed, contemporary feel—perfect for leisurely lunches or dinners that stretch into the night.

At the helm is Chef Andrea Spagoni, whose menu centers on premium ingredients and confident execution. Expect handmade pastas, dry-aged steaks, and an Italian-leaning wine list with some serious depth. Finestra has just introduced its Sicilian Menu, available until September 30, featuring classic fare like pork tenderloin with mushrooms and sweetbreads.

Guests can arrive via Solaire’s helipad with advance notice, making Finestra a seamless choice for a mid-city meal that feels like an occasion.

Solaire Resort Entertainment City, 1 Aseana Ave, Tambo, Parañaque, Metro Manila.  (02) 8888 8888

Antonio’s Tagaytay

Antonio’s, a standout destination very well-known among Filipinos and foreigners alike for its exceptional dining experience set against the lush landscapes of Tagaytay, is just a quick helicopter ride from Metro Manila. The sprawling garden estate includes a private helipad, allowing guests to arrive and step straight into an unforgettable meal in a contemporary restaurant with references to turn-of-the-20th-century architecture and detailing. Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weekend getaway, Antonio’s Tagaytay continues to set the standard for fine dining outside the city.

The menu is a blend of European and Filipino flavors, crafted with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Known for his attention to detail, Chef Tonyboy Escalante combines rustic charm with refined techniques—whether it’s his signature surf and turf dishes, unique appetizers, or decadent desserts.

Purok 138, 3VVX+5F8 Barangay, Neogan, Tagaytay City, Cavite. 0917 899 2866

Rima Mediterranean Treetop Dining, Shangri-La Boracay

The helipad is just outside of the resort premises, but Rima Mediterranean Dining is just a quick vehicle ride away. Perched in the heart of Boracay’s vibrant beachfront, the restaurant offers an inviting escape with stunning ocean views. This restaurant brings the warmth and flavors of the Mediterranean to the island, featuring fresh, vibrant dishes inspired by Italy, Spain, Greece, and beyond.

Crowd-pleasers are its octopus salad, handmade pastas, fresh seafood, and robust risottos which are only some of the many offerings in Rima’s menu that celebrate authentic, sun-kissed flavors crafted with quality ingredients. The treetop setting, paired with the gentle sea breeze, makes it the perfect spot to unwind and savor a leisurely meal.

Hillside along the Treehouse Villas, Barangay Yapak, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan. (63 36) 288 4988 ext. 6479