At The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang, buffet dining turns into a Philippine heritage experience

There are so many buffet options around, but nothing makes you feel more special than one that comes with a touch of Philippine heritage.

We visited the Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang recently. We were treated to an indulgent feast and dined inside a heritage landmark. It was a buffet that filled not just our plates but also our heart, as we appreciated our Philippine culture. Café Ilang-Ilang is Manila Hotel’s signature buffet restaurant. It is located at the original wing of the iconic hotel, built over 110 years ago. Inside, you will be impressed by the cool, modern, and elegant design. Yet, it also embraces you with a festive ambiance. Every meal lets you feel the spirit of a real Filipino celebration. Walking around each station is a treat for your eyes and appetite. Every corner showcases an array of dishes you cannot resist.

Let’s start with the Filipino table, where the sight of grand lechon (roasted pig) invites you to come over. This undisputed star of any Pinoy celebration hosts alongside a lot of delicious Filipino foods. Take a few steps away and you’ll reach a very impressive Japanese spread. It’s not just a corner but big enough to be a stand-alone restaurant. Enjoy freshly prepared sashimi, maki, and tempura—all laid out in a wide display. Move on and you’ll see the Italian corner for your favorite Italian staples. Hand-tossed pizza with choices of toppings and pasta customized, cooked as you order.

Craving for Korean food? Dakgang Jeong, Fried Mandu, Spicy Oxtail, and Kimbap with the sides of kimchi, anchovies are few of the what we saw when we went around. Chinese favorites are also available, like the much-loved Peking duck, dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and sautéed shrimp. I got attracted to the little cute turtle buns that landed on my plate. It is also a place for vegetarians. There is an extensive spread of plant-based and meat-free dishes that you will surely love.

And now for the seafood lovers, here’s the good news. You will surely find it hard to choose among crabs, prawns, salmon, and other fresh catches, as all are very appetizing. On the other side, a wide range of cold cuts and cheeses awaits your plate to be filled. You will not miss your steak cravings, I tell you, because a big Prime steak is there waiting to be sliced.

Grilled foods are also available at the Churrasco station, where churrasco-style roasted meats can be found. Get some sausages, corn, potatoes, and veggies grilled too. And for a sweet tooth like me, the dessert section is simply a pure haven. Indulge to the max and satisfy your sweet cravings with a wide choice of cakes, pastries, tarts, gelatins, and fruits. What a way to end the feast, the perfect way you can imagine. No wonder Café Ilang-Ilang has become a favorite weekend destination for families. It is a regular go-to place for balikbayans and also for nearby business groups.

The place itself offers a wonderful dining experience – spacious, well-lit, and designed in contemporary elegance yet with the warmth of Filipino touches. Other than food and interiors, what truly made our experience very memorable is the service. We are so impressed by how the staff are noticeably attentive, making every guest feel special. That is what we call hospitality that goes beyond words—you have to experience it yourself to truly understand what we really mean.

All in all, we can say that dining at Café Ilang-Ilang is more than just enjoying an excellent buffet. For us, it is all about reliving heritage and embracing Filipino culture while enjoying the feast of food from different cuisines. It is definitely a buffet experience in one of the country’s most iconic landmarks. Our plates were not only filled with great food but also served with a nostalgic piece of Filipino heritage.

For reservation or for more information about Cafe’ Ilang-Ilang, you may visit their website here.