Café Ilang-Ilang | Luxury Buffet Dining in Manila Hotel

In this buffet restaurant review, we tried the much acclaimed buffet restaurant of Manila Hotel. Manila Hotel has a rich history dating back decades. This iconic establishment has welcomed dignitaries and celebrities, offering a luxurious experience with the charm of old Manila.

Café Ilang-Ilang boasts opulent yet vintage interiors, with dimly lit and low-ceilinged dining spaces. Despite its spacious layout, the restaurant is cleverly divided into distinct sections, creating an experience like navigating through an intriguing culinary maze.

True to my routine, I began my culinary journey with the offerings of Japanese cuisine. I think this is the largest station in Café Ilang-Ilang. It encompassed an impressive spread – from meticulously prepared sashimi and maki to delectable tempura and even a selection of salads. I opted for a combination of tuna and salmon sashimi, all available maki variations, a refreshing kani salad, and a plate of tempura.

Transitioning to the carving station, I got 2 steak slices. Typically, my expectations for steak in a buffet setting are modest, yet Café Ilang-Ilang defied convention. Here, the steak is undoubtedly a highlight worth savoring, making it an essential part of the dining experience that should not be missed.

In the Italian section, Café Ilang-Ilang offers freshly made pizzas, pasta and charcuterie.

A standout attribute of Café Ilang-Ilang is undoubtedly its mastery of Filipino cuisine. Café Ilang-Ilang offers an array of selections that often elude other international buffet establishments, presenting diners to a spread that are uniquely Filipino and rarely found elsewhere.

Café Ilang-Ilang even has a Halal Station.

In the dessert section, aside from the customary sweet treats, Café Ilang-Ilang includes native delicacies and locally-inspired cakes.

To summarize my Café Ilang-Ilang experience, even though I haven't explored every section or dish, my impression remains resoundingly positive. The restaurant consistently delivers delectable and high-quality cuisine. What particularly appeals to me is the unrestricted variety of dishes, allowing guests to request without constraint. The exceptional service from the staff further enhances the experience. On the flip side, the dining space falls short for me. Too much tables creates a sense of overcrowding that slightly detracts from an otherwise enjoyable visit.

Recommendation: Steaks and Japanese Cuisines.

Tip: To avoid the crowd, schedule your visit during weekday and off-peak hours. Also, check your credit card promos for discounts.

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IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER IN CAFÉ ILANG-ILANG

Café Ilang-Ilang Information
- FB: @TheManilaHotel
- Website: https://www.manila-hotel.com.ph/dining/cafe-ilang-ilang/
- Address: One Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila, 0913 Metro Manila
- Email: restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com
- Telephone Number: (632) 8527 0011
Café Ilang-Ilang Rates
- Breakfast: Adult Php 1,750.00, Child Php875.00
- Lunch (Monday – Saturday): Adult Php 2,995.00, Child Php1,497.50
- Lunch (Sunday): Adult Php 3,145.00, Child Php1,572.50
- Dinner (Sunday – Wednesday): Adult Php 3,145.00, Child Php1,572.50
- Dinner (Thursday - Saturday): Adult Php 3,790.00, Child Php1,895.00
Café Ilang-Ilang Themed Nights
- Sunday to Monday: International Buffet
- Tuesday: Mediterranean Cuisine
- Wednesday: Asian Night
- Thursday: Surf & Turf Night
- Fridays: Seafood Night
Café Ilang-Ilang accepts walk-ins but reservation is recommended.
Café Ilang-Ilang offers private rooms.
Cash and major credit cards accepted.
Drinks are included in the rate.
The dress code in Café Ilang-Ilang is smart casual.