Singapore is easily one of the best culinary destinations in Asia, and while there’s nothing quite like the original, Bugis Singapore Street Food comes really really close. You can order their popular Numnums (P38 per stick/P420 set of 12) which are deep fried snacks such as fish balls, lobster cheese balls, and scallops, the crowd-favorite laksa, and many more, without having to worry about the bill. They are also offering party trays (starts at P1,950) of their best-sellers for the holidays.

Jin Joo changes up your typical Korean Barbecue experience with the addition of melting your own blend of cheese (Cheese Deung Galbi P950). They also have a platter of meat each marinated in their eight signature flavors (P1560) from the traditional garlic and red pepper, to the interesting ginseng flavor. If you want to try a bit of everything, then it’s always good to dine with a big group.

If you’re the type of group that can’t decide what cuisine to eat, then Todd English is your best bet. The restaurant has nine food stations similar to a buffet, but each dish is prepared fresh upon order. And unlike any other food hall, this one is fancy enough for a girl’s night out. Best-sellers include their Brooklyn Style Meatball Spaghetti (P390), the Foie Gras Burger (P790) and the Tempura Lobster Dynamite Roll (P490).

Before all the bars and restaurants sprouted around the colorful streets of Poblacion, there was El Chupacabra -- the little restaurant that started it all. Perfect for a round of cheap beer (P300 a bucket), funky cocktails (La Chupadita P140), and street tacos (starts at P110), El Chupacabra has been serving up a deliciously consistent dining experience since it opened more than five years ago. Though we’re always going to be a fan of the original dodgy backyard barbecue set-up, they’ve also opened an air-conditioned section called the La Cueva Del Chupacabra where you can still enjoy the hole-in-the-wall vibe sans the loud music.

If you’re having a hard time reaching a consensus on where to spend your barkada Christmas dinner, then go for Nihonbashi Tei, who will say no? Trust us, nobody can resist their Spicy Toro Maki (P280). The restaurant is perfect for group dinners because they have private rooms for larger groups, and dishes are generally affordable. Pair your Makis with the Katsu Curry (P300), the Zaru Soba (P200), or whatever you see on the menu -- no friend will leave unhappy.

At Tittos, it isn’t all about the food. The moment you enter you’re greeted by colorful murals, lively, South American music, and of course the mouthwatering aroma from the busy kitchen. The menu is pretty diverse and filled with flavors even the most picky eater would enjoy. We recommend the Salted Egg Shrimp Street Taco (P145), the 18-hours Goucho Steak (P480), and the Tittos Chicharon (P670).

You can never go wrong with pizza and pasta and Mamma Mia’s version will hit the spot like you never knew pizza and pasta could. You can almost imagine an Italian family enjoying a Sunday lunch in the villa-style restaurant. The recipes are hearty and filling, just how you would imagine an Italian grandma would make it. Come with your friends and order the Spaghetti Carbonara (P1,360 for sharing) and the ooey gooey Italian Bacon & Meatballs Bomb (P370).

Just like any other Korean Barbecue restaurant in the city, Sodam is always packed with people. But the good thing about it is that you can make reservations! Though you only get two kinds of meat (Beef and Pork), they also have a delicious spread laid out in the center of the restaurant for everyone’s taking. You can find favorites such as the Pajeon, Korean fried chicken, and more.

Nothing screams Filipino celebration than a good old boodle fight. At Gerry’s Jeepney, you can enjoy the classic tradition with friends inside a colorful “jeepney”, each made with a uniquely Pinoy design. Set meals are named after popular commute routes like the Cubao (P810), which comes with pork barbecue, chicken barbecue, inihaw na isda, and ensaladang talong and the Ayala (P870), which comes with additional liempo, and crispy hipon.

Islas Filipinas is one of the newest dining concepts of Margarita Fores. The food hall or “heritage village” showcases the unique Filipino food, culture, and sights, under one picture-perfect space. As a group you can each order and sample dishes from different regions around the country. You’ll find all-day silogs (P195), a tusok tusok station, a panaderya (P289 Monggo Roll/dozen) and more as you stroll around a miniature Pinas.

Don't know where to spend Noche Buena? Get more mouthwatering recommendations here! ]]>