A feast of flavors and festivities for Easter in Araneta City
As Easter Sunday approaches, families seeking a blend of culinary delights and festive activities need look no further than Araneta City. This bustling urban hub is set to transform into an Easter wonderland, offering a variety of dining experiences and events tailored for all ages.
Refined dining experience at Gateway Mall 2
Gateway Mall 2 has brought with it a curated list of upscale restaurants that cater to families looking for a more sophisticated Easter meal.
Located in the newly inaugurated Gateway Mall 2, World Kitchens presents a gastronomic adventure with its 15 show kitchens. Patrons can savor an array of international cuisines, including Filipino, Japanese, Indian, Italian, and Spanish dishes. The expansive 2,500-square-meter food hall, capable of seating 700 guests, utilizes AI-powered QR code ordering systems for a seamless dining experience. Private dining rooms are also available for families seeking a more intimate setting.
While rooted in comfort food, Manam’s stylish interiors and innovative twists on Filipino classics—like sizzling sinigang and crispy palabok—bring a contemporary vibe to traditional family feasting. Visit Manam located at the Coliseum Plaza in Gateway Mall 2.
a mano, a modern Filipino restaurant, is a highlight. Known for elevated interpretations of classic local dishes using native ingredients, a mano delivers a refined but heartfelt take on Filipino cuisine in a space designed for both comfort and sophistication. a mano is located at Ground Floor, Gateway Mall 2.
From Chef Margarita Forés comes Grace Park, her celebrated farm-to-table concept that brings Italian-Filipino fusion to life with organic, locally sourced ingredients. Its Gateway outpost offers hearty mains, handcrafted pasta, and elegant plating that turns family lunch into a slow-food celebration. Grace Park is located at Ground Floor, Gateway Mall 2.
For upscale comfort food, Mary Grace Café provides its signature cozy elegance. Known for its ensaymadas, grilled sandwiches, and hearty all-day breakfasts, Mary Grace balances homey flavors with an inviting, well-appointed ambiance that resonates with all ages. Visit Mary Grace at Upper Ground A, Gateway Mall 2.
Classic comforts, stylish spaces
For families who want to keep Easter Sunday familiar yet elevated, Gateway Mall 1 offers a curated selection of restaurants that combine time-tested favorites with modern, stylish interiors.
Conti’s Bakeshop & Restaurant remains a go-to destination for hearty comfort food and celebratory desserts. Known for its baked salmon, chicken pie, and bestselling Mango Bravo cake, Conti’s is ideal for large families looking to enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner in a welcoming, well-lit space that feels festive but relaxed.
Just a few steps away is Nanyang, which brings Singaporean café culture to Araneta City with its clean, minimalist design and quick-serve setup. Their menu of kaya toast, soft-boiled eggs, laksa, and Hainanese chicken rice offers a refreshing take on Asian comfort food that even young diners will enjoy. It’s a convenient stop for smaller families or casual brunches before hopping into Easter activities.
For a more nostalgic dining experience, Café Adriatico continues to charm with its old-world interiors and heritage menu. The restaurant blends Spanish and Filipino influences with dishes like callos, beef salpicao, and lengua con setas—paired best with their signature tsokolate or sans rival. It’s a fitting spot for those who want a taste of tradition with a touch of elegance.
Festival of flavors in Ali Mall
For those looking to celebrate Easter with a taste of heritage, Barrio Fiesta and Gerry’s Grill in Ali Mall offer long-time favorites in a warm, family-style setting.
At Barrio Fiesta, diners can enjoy timeless dishes like crispy pata, kare-kare, and sinigang na baboy—served in traditional décor that evokes Filipino family gatherings.
On the other hand, Gerry’s Grill offers grilled seafood, sizzling sisig, and pulutan-style plates perfect for group celebrations. Both spots offer the comfort of familiarity with service tailored for big families.
Comfort meets culture in Farmer’s Plaza and Dampa
Down the road, Farmers Plaza offers a hidden gem: Golden Noodle House, a no-frills but beloved Chinese eatery known for its affordable yet flavorful noodle dishes and dim sum, perfect for smaller gatherings or casual Sunday meals.
For a truly Filipino-style Easter lunch, families can head to the Dampa at Farmers Market, where fresh seafood is bought directly from stalls and cooked on-site. Though casual, the Dampa experience remains a beloved tradition for those who want an Easter feast that’s authentic, generous, and proudly local.
Buffets, gelato, and rooftop views at Novotel Manila & Ibis Styles
Families looking for a full-day Easter spread can head to Novotel Manila Araneta City, where multiple in-house restaurants are crafting seasonal menus for all ages.
At Food Exchange Manila, diners can expect an Easter buffet that includes kid-approved dishes and international specialties, served in a colorful, family-friendly space. A special carving station, Easter-themed desserts, and interactive food counters are expected to be part of the spread.
For a more casual bite, Gourmet Bar by Novotel offers light meals and curated cocktails, ideal for parents who want a relaxing breather while the kids enjoy sweets from Indulge Gelato, which churns out signature gelato flavors and baked pastries daily.
As the sun sets, families can also opt to head to ibis Styles Manila Araneta City which introduces a fresh rooftop option: The Edge Skyview Bar. Offering light fare, curated drinks, and an open-air view of the Big Dome and skyline, it’s a breezy spot for parents to unwind after a full day of Easter activities.
This year, Easter Sunday becomes more than just a day for treats—it’s a chance to share a thoughtfully prepared meal in a space that brings people together. With its evolving culinary landscape and new fine dining offerings, Araneta City is setting the table for a memorable celebration.
