Poblacion isn’t just about Asian street eats and local bars. It also brings bold western flavors and Mediterranean delights to your plate. From smoky Caribbean jerk chicken to falafels, tacos, and kebabs, this district feels like a culinary passport, without leaving Makati. Here are vibrant food spots where international tastes meet Poblacion’s undeniable charm.
Hummus Elijah: Middle Eastern Classics Done Right
Craving hearty Mediterranean food? Hummus Elijah delivers the goods with big servings, bold flavors, and a welcoming, homey atmosphere. It’s the perfect place for slow meals, casual conversations, and generous plates that satisfy both appetite and curiosity.
I ordered Elijah’s Combo, which could easily feed two. It included four crisp-on-the-outside falafels, yellow rice, creamy hummus, and fluffy pita. The falafels were moist inside and packed with herbs. The hummus was incredibly smooth, topped with olive oil and whole chickpeas for texture.
A fresh salad helped balance the richness. Their traditional Turkish coffee added a finishing touch. Served in a cezve, the coffee was earthy and intense. You can add milk if you prefer a creamier cup. Every detail at Hummus Elijah felt thoughtful, every bite like a small culinary journey.
Babaghanoosh: Mediterranean Meets Filipino Flair
Babaghanoosh gives Mediterranean dishes a familiar, Filipino touch. It’s comfort food with global flair. During my visit, I tried the Beef Kebab Plate, three juicy kebabs over fragrant buttered rice. The sides included grilled tomato, onions, and three sauces. The garlic mayo brought richness. The spicy red sauce added kick, while the honey mustard provided a sweet, tangy lift. The grilled beef stood out, well-seasoned and smoky.
Other menu highlights include hummus with pita and a Salmon Tomato Cream Pasta that shows their flair for Mediterranean fusion. Babaghanoosh mixes western flavors with local style, creating a memorable and satisfying meal every time.
El Chupacabra: Where Tacos and Sisig Collide
No trip through Poblacion’s western flavors is complete without El Chupacabra. This spot blends Mexican street eats with Filipino boldness. It’s gritty, energetic, and always buzzing with flavor, and people. I dove into the Boneless Chicken, Sisig Tacos, and Horchata. The chicken was smoky and tender, bursting with well-seasoned flavor. Bright sauces added tang that cut through the richness.
The star? The Sisig Tacos. Crunchy, savory Filipino sisig inside a soft tortilla which is spicy, tangy, and perfectly balanced. It’s fusion done right. I ended the meal with Horchata; cool, creamy, and lightly spiced with cinnamon. It soothed the heat and tied the meal together beautifully.
Buccaneers Rum and Kitchen: Caribbean Escape in the City
Step inside Buccaneers Rum and Kitchen and you’ll feel like you’re in the Caribbean. Pirate flags, barrels, and rum set the scene, but the food seals the deal. I ordered the Jamaican Jerk Chicken, marinated in Caribbean spices for 24 hours. Then they slow-cooked it for three more. The result? Deeply flavored, smoky chicken, served with a crisp salad and tangy house-made jerk ketchup. The ketchup added heat and zest that matched the charred meat beautifully.
I paired it with Bucca’s Mai Tai. Served in a totem glass, the cocktail was fruity but rum-forward. It matched the bold flavors on my plate. Buccaneers isn’t just about dining. It’s a flavorful tropical escape in the heart of Makati.
Poblacion shows how far western flavors can take you, without needing a passport. From creamy hummus and grilled falafels, to fiery jerk chicken and fusion tacos, this neighborhood serves flavor adventures on every street.
Plan Your Poblacion, Makati Food Trip
Pair this guide with my full Poblacion Food Series. You’ll discover more themed food adventures such as:
- Asian Street Eats in Poblacion, Makati
- Filipino Favorites: From Classics to Creative Twists
- All-Day Breakfast and Brunch Spots
- Coffee Breaks and Creative Cafés
Still wondering where to eat in Poblacion? Let flavor be your guide and curiosity your map. Bookmark this guide and build your next food trip around it.
DISCLAIMER: This list only scratches the surface of where to eat in Poblacion for great western flavors. I personally visited every spot here, no hearsay, no sponsored fluff. There are still many popular stops I haven’t tried yet due to time constraints during past visits. I’ll continue updating the guide as I discover more hidden gems and fan-favorite places in the area.
