About
Welcome to MESA - Greenbelt 5, a gem nestled in the heart of Ayala Malls, Makati City. This restaurant is not just a place to eat; it's a celebration of elevated authentic Filipino cuisine, designed to delight both the casual diner and those seeking a more refined dining experience.
The moment you step inside, you are greeted with a warm and inviting ambiance that perfectly balances sophistication with a home-like feel. However, be prepared for its popularity—it's wise to book a reservation, especially during peak hours, as the dining room often buzzes with happy patrons.
One standout dish that encapsulates the essence of MESA is the Tinapa Roll. This dish features a delicate interplay of textures, with its crispy exterior revealing a melt-in-your-mouth interior, combining savory, sour, and sweet notes in perfect harmony. It's an essential order for anyone eager to explore thematic elements of Filipino flavors.
Another highlight is the Daing Na Bangus, a classic that showcases a beautifully fried boneless milkfish fillet, adorned with aromatic seasonings and a generous sprinkle of fried garlic. It’s a nostalgic dish that resonates with the taste of home, yet is executed with an attention to detail that speaks to its sophisticated approach.
If you’re craving a satisfying side, the Bagoong Rice is a flavorful fried rice infused with shrimp paste, generous meat portions, and a distinct aroma that elevates any meal. It doesn't merely accompany the main dishes; it stands out on its own as a delightful experience.
To complement your meal, you must try their refreshing Sampaloc drink, a tamarind beverage that offers an invigorating burst of sourness. It's perfect for those who appreciate a little zing to awaken their senses. This drink is not for everyone, but brave sour enthusiasts will find it a thrilling addition.
Overall, while the culinary offerings might astound, some diners noted that the serving sizes could be a touch on the smaller side. Nevertheless, the speed of service, delectable flavors, and responsive staff largely make up for that minor detail, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the usual waits. MESA - Greenbelt 5 remains a must-visit destination, providing a delightful journey through the rich tapestry of Filipino cuisine, enhanced by its modern comforts.
“ A really good place to relax and eat. The food is delicious and moderately priced compared to the area. It's a good place to stop by for lunch. The wait wasn't too long and was reasonable since they cook everything to order. Highly recommended. ”
“ MESA - Greenbelt 5 offers a delightful experience with its elevated take on authentic Filipino cuisine. The restaurant provides a sophisticated yet welcoming ambiance, perfect for both casual and special occasions. The Tinapa Roll is a standout dish, boasting a perfect textural combination. The crispy exterior gives way to a soft interior, with a harmonious blend of savory, sour, and sweet flavors. This is a menu item you absolutely must try! The "Daing Na Bangus" presents a beautifully prepared boneless milkfish fillet, fried to a crisp and topped with flavorful seasonings and aromatic fried garlic. It's a well-executed classic. Their "Bagoong Rice" is a flavorful fried rice dish with a distinct shrimp paste aroma, complemented by a generous topping of meat. It's a savory and satisfying choice. For a truly refreshing and awakening beverage, the "Sampaloc" (tamarind drink) is a must-try. Its intense sourness is incredibly invigorating, a perfect wake-up call for the palate. While perhaps not for everyone, sour flavor enthusiasts will find this drink highly recommended. ”
“ The cost performance was good, and each dish came in shareable portions.Being Filipino cuisine, I understand it’s part of the style, but the pancit was cut short, and the soup was lukewarm and already overcooked, which was a bit disappointing. ”
“ The good: - The food was delicious - Serving time was very fast - Staff were responsive - There were a lot of tables and seating The bad: - Serving size is a bit small Good to know: - It's better to book a reservation first because there can be a lot of people, especially at peak hours ”
“ Went to MESA for the Pepsi Corp x MESA contract signing event and stayed longer for the delicious food. Service was very friendly, place was kept clean and orderly. Food as always is exceptionally made. Delicious mains and the grilled meat platter was great for sharing. Filled with an assortment of grilled seafood, chicken and pork belly. When in Greenbelt and looking for Filipino cuisine, MESA is a good choice. ”
“ The food was amazing, we took a straightforward lunch for 4 Pax, the waitress who mainly served us had no energy at all, she should be aware that the clients are not Filipino, so try some basic English that a foreigner can understand well, other servers are excellent. The ambience at 12noon was so horrible the noise was like a fish market shouting when they talk and laughing too loudly. Highly advise coming around 1:30 onwards. [Greenbelt 5] ”
“ Good Filipino food. Most of the ala cart dishes can be ordered in three different serving sizes. The crispy beef pares is a must try. Though the waiter forgot the additional condiment and dessert I ordered. Majority of the dessert items were not available during my visit. ”
“ Had a great dining experience at Mesa Greenbelt 5 Manila! The food was delicious — especially the crispy fried pork, which was perfectly cooked and super flavorful. The menu had a nice variety of classic Filipino dishes with a modern twist. Service was friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere felt cozy yet classy — perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. Would definitely come back again to try more dishes. Highly recommend if you’re craving well-executed Filipino comfort food in Makati! ”