Manila gets cracking: London's Burger & Lobster opens Its doors

London’s cult-favorite spot serves up prime beef and wild-caught lobsters at SM Aura


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THE INTERIORS of Bugers & Lobster at SM Aura Premier

The crack of lobster shells, the sizzle of beef on the grill—Burger & Lobster has arrived in Manila.

The London-born brand, known for its no-frills approach to surf and turf, opens its doors at SM Aura Premier on March 2, 2025. It brings with it a promise: top-quality ingredients, done right.

“Manila’s love for bold flavors and communal dining makes it the perfect home for Burger & Lobster,” says Eric Teng, managing partner of the Manila branch. “We’ve taken the best of what has made the brand a global favorite and infused it with a distinct local flair—ensuring that every visit is a mix of indulgence, excitement, and familiarity.”

From a rooftop in London to a worldwide presence, Burger & Lobster has built its name on a simple concept. Burgers, made with prime beef. Lobsters, wild-caught from Canada. No distractions—just quality.

The Manila menu stays true to its roots but brings something new to the table. The Manila Roll pairs chilled prawn and lobster meat with sweet mango and calamansi mayo, tucked into a buttery brioche bun. The Spicy Chili Lobster, bathed in a tangy sauce, comes with garlic butter rice, a nod to local tastes. The dish is bold, with just the right amount of heat to complement the natural sweetness of the lobster.

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CHEF BRIAN CHONG The brand’s development chef, hard at work in the kitchen, preparing dishes for hungry guests at the media sneek peak

For burger lovers, the Honcho Burger offers a rich combination of double beef patties, sautéed mushrooms, melted cheese, and a peppercorn cream sauce, all nestled in a soft bun. Those craving indulgence can go for the Beast Burger, a decadent stack of 6oz beef, lobster meat, brie, and truffle tarragon mayo. The Atomic Burger, with jalapeños and cheddar, brings a fiery kick for those who like their burgers with heat.

Manila Bulletin was invited to an exclusive sneak peek of the menu, and our favorites were the Spicy Chili Lobster and the Honcho Burger. The chili lobster’s heat balanced beautifully with the garlic butter rice, making each bite rich and satisfying. The Honcho Burger, with its indulgent layers of beef and umami-packed toppings, was a standout, offering depth of flavor in every bite.

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THE LOBSTERS were excellent—best enjoyed with both hands, with the meat generously coated in their house sauce.

Beyond burgers and lobsters, the menu offers dishes meant for sharing. The Crab & Prawn Gratin layers lobster and crab meat with mornay sauce and mozzarella for a creamy, cheesy delight. The Lobster Mac & Cheese takes the classic comfort dish to another level, with tender chunks of lobster folded into a velvety cheese sauce.

Seafood lovers can also dive into the Moules Marinières, where mussels are bathed in a fragrant white wine cream sauce, or the Lobster Chowder, a creamy, seafood-packed bowl served with brioche toast.

“We’ve worked closely with local suppliers to source the best ingredients, and we’ve created dishes that not only maintain the quality and standards of Burger & Lobster but also cater to the tastes of our Filipino guests,” says Chef Brian Chong, the brand’s development chef.

The experience is more than the food. It’s the act of rolling up your sleeves, cracking open a lobster, letting butter drip onto your plate. It’s the kind of meal meant to be eaten with both hands.

“This is where people can eat with their hands, crack open lobsters, and indulge in gourmet flavors without the fuss,” says Riccardo La Monica, managing director of Burger & Lobster Asia.

Now Manila gets a taste. The doors are open. The lobsters are fresh. The grills are hot.

Burger & Lobster is ready.