I wanted to try something different for my usual Sunday breakfast with my friend, Mark. Our usual haunts are around the Legazpi Village area in Makati, but our favorite cafes and restaurants were unusually filled up with diners that day, so we decided to head elsewhere. He mentioned trying out Southbank Estancia. I’ve heard of it but never really bothered going there before, so when Mark told me there’s bike parking available, I figured I might as well give it a try. 

Southbank Estancia transforms from an upscale-looking cafe during the day to a sleek lounge and cocktail bar at night. I was impressed with their all-day breakfast and main courses, offering sumptuously rich main dishes and delectable vegetarian options that might be paired well with either their coffee menu or a late-morning cocktail, if you’re up for it.

The design feels more like a moody speakeasy than a café, though, so I could return here for a couple of drinks to get a better feel of the place. I welcomed the morning light that softened the otherwise dark interiors; it wasn’t so blinding or distracting.

The seats are comfortable and spacious, allowing big groups to sit snugly without feeling too crowded. I noticed that acoustics aren’t so bad, too; I didn’t have to ask Mark to repeat himself if I couldn’t hear him. 

If you prefer to eat al fresco, their outdoor seating area looks comfortable as well. You can say hi to their resident cat, who, at times, may be dressed up better than you.

How to Get to Southbank Estancia

Getting to Southbank Estancia is pretty easy. The main entrance is located outside the mall, along Camino Verde Rd. It’s next to Starbucks Reserve and close to the entrance of Estancia Mall.

Bike Parking Situation

While bike parking is limited, there’s enough space to bring in around 5-7 average sized bikes. I’m really glad that Southbank Estancia thought about adding some racks, even with the numerous bike parking spaces throughout the Capitol Commons development. It takes away that anxiety of possible bike theft, knowing that you can view your bike while enjoying your meal. I don’t even have to lock it (but still do so for extra measure; I’m just careless like that)!

Pricey, but Worth It

We didn’t have coffee this time, but I learned that Southbank is the first in the country to serve Allpress Espresso. Given that we were in for breakfast, we ordered from their Mains. 

As an enjoyer of multigrain rice, I immediately ordered their salmon rice bowl, made with salmon chunks, wakame, ebiko, and sweet soy. The rice was fluffy enough and all the flavors blended well. There was a hint of tanginess with every bite, like a splash of lemon was added just before being served. This was an instant win for me. 

Mark ordered the Loco Moco, with a beef patty and a sunny-side-up egg on top of kimchi fried rice. The gravy is made in-house. It looked a bit too rich and filling for me, though if I were really famished, I think I’ll order this next time.

While the food was good, I felt the prices were a bit steep for an experience I could easily get elsewhere for less. But if you’re looking for a worthwhile refined whole-day dining affair and want to park your bike safely, Southbank is your best bet.

About Best By Bike

Best By Bike is a blog series dedicated to discovering bike-friendly establishments around Metro Manila.

If you own or manage a bike-friendly café or restaurant and want to be featured, I’d love to hear from you! Submit your establishment for a feature.