Featured image from Apotheka
The night is young, and Poblacion’s clubs and bars are ready for you to pop in for a fun-filled evening.
Poblacion, Makati, has always been known for its buzzing nightlife, ranging from intimate spots for drinks and conversation to rooftop hangouts and DJ-driven clubs. With each offering a different atmosphere, the neighborhood has no shortage of places to explore. So, if you’re planning a night out in the city, here are some spots worth adding to your list.
Photo from Kampai
1. Kampai
One of the familiar names in Poblacion’s nightlife scene, Kampai brings a Tokyo-inspired vibe to Makati with its red-lit interior and Japanese-inspired decor. The two-floor venue pairs Japanese dishes and drinks downstairs with DJ sets and dancing upstairs, making it easy to go from casual dinner to a full-blown party without switching locations.
It’s open from 6 PM to 4 AM from Wednesday to Saturday and until 3 AM from Sunday to Tuesday.
Photo from Ugly Duck
2. Ugly Duck
Located on the rooftop of White Rabbit, Ugly Duck pays homage to the retro aesthetic with its black-and-white checkerboard floors, neon-lit accents, and quirky duck-themed wall art.
The ‘80s-inspired decorations give the bar a playful, throwback feel, while its cocktails, Asian-inspired tapas, and DJ sets create a fun setting for catching up with friends over drinks and music.
It’s open from 6 PM to 2 AM from Tuesday to Thursday and on Sundays, and until 4 AM on Fridays and Saturdays.
Photo from Almacen Cantina
3. Almacen
Situated on Matilde Street, Poblacion, Almacen is a Day of the Dead-inspired Mexican-Filipino bar filled with vibrant furnishings and colorful decor. The art pieces strewn up on the wall curated by Clarissa Gonzales add to the space’s distinct character with an artistic touch that complements the bar’s festive theme.
The menu brings together Mexican favorites and Filipino flavors, with tacos and cocktails making for a fitting start to the evening ahead.
Almacen is open from 7 PM to 4 AM on Sundays and Tuesdays to Thursdays, and from 8PM to 5 AM on Fridays and Saturdays.
Photo from Apotheka
4. Apotheka
Found within the ground floor of the White Rabbit Building on Doña Carmen Street, Apotheka has established itself as one of the city’s well-known underground clubs. Its dimly lit setting puts the focus on the music, with DJs and themed nights bringing different sounds and crowds through the doors.
The venue features two music areas that can host separate lineups, giving guests a choice of experiences throughout the night. From the hyper-energy electronic music to special events featuring drag performances, Apotheka brings together a mix of sounds and entertainment to enjoy throughout the evening.
It’s open from 9 PM to 4 AM from Wednesday to Saturday.
Photo from Hungry Byaheros
5. Sanctuary
If you’re after a night out with a breath of fresh air between the crowded dance floors, Sanctuary offers a mix of indoor clubbing and open-air rooftop lounging. Guests can dance to house music or head outdoors for a change of scenery while mingling with fellow partygoers.
Open until 5 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, Sanctuary is a great spot for those who want to enjoy the late-night music and take in Makati’s street nightlife.