Beyond steakhouses and Korean BBQ, Manila has a growing scene of specialty meat dining formats. Brazilian churrasco (rodizio) brings the drama of tableside meat carving, while Japanese shabu-shabu and Chinese hot pot offer a communal, broth-based meat experience. This guide covers the best churrasco and hot pot restaurants in Manila for 2026.
Best Churrasco (Brazilian BBQ) in Manila
Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse (BGC): Manila's premier churrasco experience. Rodizio-style unlimited grilled meats carved tableside by passadores (meat carvers). Picanha (top sirloin cap), lamb chops, chicken hearts, and more. Excellent salad bar. ₱2,500–₱3,500/person. Fogo de Chão-style experience without leaving Manila. Texas de Brazil (if available): Another Brazilian rodizio option. Check current availability as Manila's churrasco scene evolves. DIY Churrasco: Some Filipino BBQ restaurants offer churrasco-inspired skewer meats. Not authentic rodizio but a fun alternative.
Best Hot Pot (Shabu-Shabu) in Manila
Haidilao (BGC and Makati): The world-famous Chinese hot pot chain. Known for exceptional service, fresh ingredients, and customizable broths. The spicy Sichuan broth is legendary. ₱1,000–₱2,500/person. Little Sheep Mongolian Hot Pot: Authentic Mongolian-style hot pot with premium lamb and beef. The original broth recipe is excellent. ₱800–₱1,800/person. Shabu Shabu Gen (Multiple locations): Japanese-style shabu-shabu with premium wagyu options. Clean, delicate broths. ₱1,200–₱3,000/person. Momo Paradise: Japanese shabu-shabu chain with unlimited pork and beef sets. ₱899–₱1,299/person.
Churrasco vs Korean BBQ vs Yakiniku
Churrasco (Brazilian): Meat is pre-seasoned and grilled on large skewers by chefs. Tableside carving. Unlimited format. Best for: large groups, meat variety, theatrical dining experience. Korean BBQ: You grill your own meat at the table. Interactive, social. Best for: groups, variety of cuts and marinades, fun dining. Yakiniku (Japanese): You grill your own meat, focus on quality over quantity. Best for: premium meat appreciation, smaller groups, refined experience. Hot Pot: Meat is cooked in broth at the table. Lighter, more delicate flavors. Best for: health-conscious diners, winter dining, variety of ingredients.
Hot Pot Tips for Manila
Broth selection: Most hot pot restaurants offer split pots (two broths in one pot). Try spicy + original for the best of both worlds. Meat selection: Thinly sliced beef (shabu-shabu style) cooks in seconds. Don't overcook — 10–15 seconds in boiling broth is enough for premium cuts. Dipping sauces: Build your own sauce at the condiment bar. Sesame paste + soy sauce + garlic + chili oil is a classic combination. Order sequence: Start with vegetables and tofu, then move to meat, finish with noodles or rice. This is the traditional hot pot order. Haidilao service: Haidilao is famous for its service — they'll offer free snacks, nail art, and entertainment while you wait. The wait can be 1–2 hours on weekends.
Pricing Guide
Churrasco: ₱2,000–₱3,500/person for unlimited rodizio. Usually includes salad bar and sides. Hot Pot (Budget): ₱500–₱1,000/person at local hot pot spots. Hot Pot (Mid-range): ₱1,000–₱2,000/person at Haidilao, Little Sheep, Momo Paradise. Hot Pot (Premium): ₱2,000–₱4,000/person with wagyu beef options at Shabu Shabu Gen or premium Japanese shabu-shabu restaurants. Note: Hot pot restaurants often charge separately for broth, meat, vegetables, and drinks. Always check the menu carefully to understand the pricing structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a churrasco restaurant in Manila?
Yes — Manila has several Brazilian-style churrasco restaurants. Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse in BGC is the most well-known, offering rodizio-style unlimited grilled meats carved tableside.
What is the best hot pot restaurant in Manila?
Top hot pot restaurants in Manila include Haidilao (BGC and Makati), Little Sheep Mongolian Hot Pot, and various Japanese shabu-shabu restaurants like Shabu Shabu Gen.
How much does Haidilao cost in Manila?
Haidilao Manila typically costs ₱1,000–₱2,500/person depending on what you order. The broth is charged separately (₱200–₱400), and meat and vegetables are priced individually.
What is the difference between shabu-shabu and hot pot?
Shabu-shabu is the Japanese version of hot pot — lighter broths, thinly sliced premium beef, and a focus on delicate flavors. Chinese hot pot (like Haidilao) tends to have bolder, spicier broths and a wider variety of ingredients.
Is churrasco popular in Manila?
Churrasco is a niche but growing dining format in Manila. Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse has a loyal following. It's particularly popular for group celebrations and corporate events.
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