What's happening to Manila's food scene? Metronome, Spiral, and other beloved restaurants shutter doors

Their closures are a testament to the challenges faced by the restaurant industry


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Image from Metronome's official Instagram account | @restaurant.metronome

Metronome, the beloved French fine dining restaurant in Makati City, has officially closed its doors. The establishment, known for its exquisite cuisine and posh ambiance, announced the permanent closure on July 22, 2024, much to the dismay of its loyal patrons.

Though the restaurant didn't disclose specific reasons for its decision, it expressed regret and gratitude for its customers' support over the past five years. The announcement noted that the facilities remain in excellent condition and that the owners are open to potential partnerships or lease arrangements.

Metronome's absence will be felt by food enthusiasts who cherished its unique dining experience. Popular dishes included pan-seared French quail, steamed live Maine lobster, and veal tenderloin.

As the city's food landscape evolves, Metronome will remain a cherished chapter in Manila's gastronomic history.

A ripple effect: Other culinary losses
Metronome's closure is part of a larger trend in Metro Manila's dining scene, with several beloved restaurants closing in recent years and leaving a void in the city's culinary landscape.

From the casual charm of Taco Mata in Poblacion (closed February last year) to the refined Japanese fare of Marufuku in Ortigas (closed January 2022), these establishments captured the hearts and palates of countless diners.

Chef Josh Boutwood's Savage, a local favorite among southerners and "BGcitizens" in Taguig City, also closed on June 30, 2024. However, Chef Josh plans to relocate and reopen the restaurant in a different location, still in BGC.

Most notably, the iconic Spiral Buffet in Sofitel Manila closed this month, leaving a significant gap in the metro's dining scene.

READ: A farewell to Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila 

Their closures are a testament to the challenges faced by the restaurant industry, including the lingering effects of the pandemic, economic factors, and rising operational costs.

The consequences of these closures are far-reaching. Job losses, diminished tax revenue, and a decline in local tourism are just some of the potential impacts. Moreover, the loss of these culinary institutions can erode a city's cultural fabric and diminish its appeal as a dining destination.

However, every ending is also a beginning. The closures of these beloved restaurants create opportunities for new and innovative dining concepts to emerge. The city's food scene is dynamic and resilient, with talented chefs and restaurateurs constantly pushing boundaries and exploring new flavors.

READ: Top Manila buffets recommended by foodies after Sofitel Spiral's closure 

We can expect to see a surge in independent restaurants, food halls, and pop-up concepts as entrepreneurs fill the gaps left by the departed. This influx of new establishments will undoubtedly enrich the city's culinary landscape, offering diners a wider variety of choices and experiences.