Description: Aptly called Ambos Mundos (which means "both worlds"), this little restaurant is literally a combination of the past and the present, the east and the west, the Philippines and Spain. First opened in 1888 by Spanish immigrants, the Gaudinezes, Ambos Mundos could arguably be Manila's oldest restaurant (unless, of course, somebody knows another that's older). Originally located on Echague St. (now C. Palanca), right beside Plaza Goiti (now Plaza Lacson) it has since settled near the Rizal Avenue MRT-2 stop, near the corner of Florentino Torres and C. M. Recto Ave. (formerly Azcarraga). The menu is definitely Rizalian in flavor. Written on a chalk board out front, the selections are strictly old school Manila fare, a mix of Philippine and Iberian specialties with paella prices looking like they came from a long forgotten era as well. But aside from the Nick Joaquin chic decor: i.e., Spanish plates, bullfighting posters, carved narra details and capiz lamps, there's also the friendly staff and the San Mig that comes to the table ice cold and immediately.

Type: Restaurants