06 January 2026
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Tree-lined streets, shopping complexes and murals as tall as buildings characterize Bonifacio Global City. This residential and commercial district at the heart of Taguig City was once a sprawling military base, Fort Bonifacio. Redevelopment in the early 2000s transformed it into one of the Philippines’ trendiest neighborhoods.
Now, Bonifacio Global City — or, as locals call it, BGC — is home to a dizzying number of shops, restaurants and attractions from homegrown and international brands alike. Spend an afternoon shopping and viewing public art. Take a walk at dusk to see the skyscrapers illuminate against the sunset. And don’t forget to enjoy an al fresco cocktail or two in one of many chic establishments.
BGC can’t be beaten in terms of practicality — there’s a convenience store on almost every corner — though travelers should pack a comfortable pair of shoes, a small umbrella and a powerbank before setting off.
EAT
Modern sensibilities
BGC’s food scene is as progressive as the neighborhood.
BGC’s food scene is as progressive as the neighborhood. Gastronomy and sustainability meet at Gallery by Chele, which was awarded both One MICHELIN Star and the Philippines’ first-ever Green Star. Gallery by Chele uses mostly locally sourced ingredients, favoring tasting menus over à la carte dishes. Lore, led by chef and cookbook author Myke “Tatung” Sarthou, serves Filipino classics with seasonal ingredients that match homely, rattan-filled interiors. At fine dining restaurant Taupe, the kitchen is led by a young couple that fuses Filipino and global techniques.
Casual comfort
It’s not easy to keep up with BGC’s pace, but neighborhood darlings carve out pockets of calm amid the action. Locavore serves Filipino comfort classics with French touches, courtesy of Paris-trained chefs. Brasserie Steak & Frice serves steaks with a side of fries (or rice). Low-key eatery Em Hà Nội offers Vietnamese favorites, such as rice noodles with grilled pork in a family-style menu. Tucked in the corner of 29th Street and Rizal Drive sits Brick Corner, a North Indian resto-bar offering smoky naan baked in a tandoor.
Cocktails and bites
Effervescence and elegance mark BGC’s nightlife. With floor-to-ceiling windows and exposed concrete, Bib Gourmand-listed Los Tacos features tasty Mexican dishes, such as chorizo campechano tacos with fresh tortillas made with a blend of Mexican corns, paired with a variety of lagers, ales and wine. Uma Nota’s retro-inspired interiors are home to equally stylish cocktails and Brazilian-Japanese plates. Generous portions and a Spanish and Mediterranean menu make Bolero an ideal spot for a night out with friends. Eclectic interiors inspired by Dia de Muertos round out the experience at Mamacita, known for its tequila and agave spirits.
STAY
It’s tempting to lose sleep to maximize a visit to BGC, but staying at Shangri-La The Fort, Manila makes it unnecessary.
The hotel’s name references the neighborhood’s past life as a military base and its location in the middle of BGC makes it easy to keep the pace. Guests can play a game or two in the tennis or basketball courts before unwinding in the hotel spa and wellness center.
PLAY
BGC lives up to its reputation as a premier commercial district in the Philippines.
Locals and expats alike flock to Bonifacio High Street, a bustling shopping district that stretches for 1-kilometer. Shoppers can browse flagship stores from international and local retailers while enjoying the breeze. For a more relaxed pace, Mitsukoshi BGC is a Japanese-style department store in a quiet part of town.
Kids and kids-at-heart shouldn’t miss The Mind Museum, an interactive science museum featuring exhibitions on outer space, dinosaurs and technology. At the Atom Gallery, visitors can watch their hair stand on end when placing their hands on a static ball or witness the first permanent T. rex exhibit in the country at the Earth Gallery. For art lovers, the nearby Pablo Galleries showcases illustrations, photography and mixed-media work.
While walking around BGC is a workout in itself, travelers can keep up with their jogging routine through various parks and walkways. A stone’s throw away from Bonifacio High Street, Track 30th takes joggers on a winding road amid trees and skyscrapers. Children can enjoy the playgrounds and art installations at Terra Park 28th Street.
BGC reveals itself most fully when experienced at your own pace. Wander its long promenades, pause for a drink as the lights come on or duck into a gallery when the midday sun grows strong — each turn offers something considered, contemporary and distinctly its own.
Whether you’re here for a quick stroll or a full day of exploring, the neighborhood leaves a clear impression of a city still shaping, still reaching and very much alive.
Header Image (©ARTYOORAN)
