Miss Kon

Description

Miss Kon is the sort of restaurant that proves the magic is often in the details. You’re unlikely to breeze past it without noticing the low-key signage, but if you step inside, things shift. There’s a chill, no-pressure vibe that lets you take your time—no one’s shooing you out, and that makes a world of difference when you’re hungry or just craving a spot to regroup in the middle of a bustling city. If you’ve ever found yourself wandering Manila with a group of pals or colleagues, not quite able to agree on whether to dine in or grab something to go, Miss Kon basically solves that debate before it even starts. Want to stay? Plenty of cozy space. Need something quick to take back? No fuss.

I’ve seen plenty of eateries try to straddle the casual/fancy line and end up missing both marks, but Miss Kon settles firmly into the relaxed camp. It’s the kind of spot you’d want for an after-work decompression session or a low-key dinner with friends where laughter’s allowed to get a little loud. They serve alcohol and beer—always an advantage if you’re winding down or just want to pair a cold one with your meal. There’s always a restroom, which I know sounds basic, but tell me you haven’t been let down by a new spot missing this essential. What sets Miss Kon apart, to my mind, is how it makes groups feel at ease without being loud or chaotic. If you’ve ever herded a group of friends, you get why this matters.

Key Features

• Flexible Service: Offers both dine-in and takeout options, perfect for fickle plans and changing moods.
• Alcohol & Beer: Enjoy your favorite drink or try something new. Not every eatery in Manila that feels “casual” actually serves alcohol, so this is a win.
• Group-Friendly: Designed for groups, whether you’re with coworkers or a bunch of friends—it doesn’t matter if you’re hungry for more than just food (here’s looking at you, after-work venting sessions).
• Restroom Access: Maybe I harp on this a bit, but restaurants with clean, accessible restrooms get bonus points in my book.
• Casual Atmosphere: No need to dress up or whisper. Relax, chat, and eat at your own pace.
• Convenient Location: Situated right where Manila’s pulse can be felt, giving you easy access to the city’s rhythm before or after your meal.

It’s honestly a bit of a relief to walk in somewhere and not feel like you’re being judged for ordering dessert first or laughing a bit too loud. I’ve found that eating somewhere this relaxed means your meal tends to taste better, too. Maybe that’s just me.

Best Time to Visit

From my experience, Miss Kon is at its most enjoyable during late afternoons into the early evening, especially midweek. If you’ve ever had a long day of exploring Ermita or, honestly, just want somewhere to decompress after navigating city traffic, this is a pretty stellar option. Avoiding the lunchtime press means you’re less likely to wait for a table, and the crowd tends toward friend groups blending work debriefs with casual eats. Weekend nights can get a little busier, especially as folks trickle in for drinks and dinner, but I never found the atmosphere overwhelmingly packed.

Here’s a tip: if you’re aiming for a quieter meal, try popping in just before the official dinner rush. You can settle in, stake out a comfy spot, and get your order in before the buzz kicks up. Rainy days can make Manila feel especially crowded indoors, but Miss Kon’s laid-back crowd seems to just—how to say it—vibe with the weather, not fight against it.

If you’re a solo traveler, don’t be shy about stopping in. I’ve sat at the bar with nothing but my phone and a book, and the vibe’s always been welcoming. Not once did I feel out of place, which can be rare when you’re exploring new eats on your own.

How to Get There

Getting to Miss Kon is actually pretty straightforward, whether you’re relying on Manila’s public transit, a ride-sharing service, or you’re feeling brave enough to wrangle a jeepney (bonus points if you do—there’s nothing quite like the full Manila transport experience). Most visitors find that grabbing a Grab ride is the most hassle-free, especially for out-of-towners not used to city buses or the unexplainable magic of Manila traffic.

If you’re coming via LRT (Manila’s Light Rail Transit), hop off at the United Nations or Pedro Gil station. From there, it’s a short walk or a quick tricycle dash. Walking gives a real sense of Ermita’s pace—chaotic, sure, but also buzzing with character. I don’t recommend driving unless you’ve got parking on lock; Manila’s streets can be a headache if you’re not used to local navigation. Cabs are plenty around the main stretch, so flagging one down isn’t usually an issue if you’re loaded up with shopping bags or simply feeling too footsore.

And here’s a local shortcut for early birds or folks on a schedule: The area around Miss Kon tends to be quieter in the mornings and late afternoons, which makes for a more relaxed walk from the LRT. Not everyone knows this, but avoiding the “city rush hours” shaves a surprising amount of hassle off your visit.

Tips for Visiting

First off, don’t stress about what to wear. Miss Kon doesn’t judge. Come in with your city-exploring sneakers or dressed up for a night out—it’s all good. I’d advise calling ahead if your group is on the larger side. While walk-ins are fine most of the time, Manila’s food scene can turn a regular Thursday into a full house at the flip of a TikTok recommendation.

Keep a close eye on the menu’s seasonal or limited-edition items. I once missed a much-talked-about local snack because I assumed it would always be there—silly move on my part. Ask the staff what’s freshly made that day; they’re usually happy to share an insider tip or two. And if you’re partial to a specific drink, mention it early, just in case (popular options sometimes run out earlier than expected on busy nights).

If it’s your first visit, I say go for a mix of the familiar and the unexpected. Sure, you’ll find classic comfort fare, but the heart of the experience is in sampling something you wouldn’t make at home. Sharing’s a hit at Miss Kon—ordering a spread and grazing as a group makes for the best kind of meal. It’s just how people tend to do it here.

I’d also bring a portable charger with you, especially if you’re the type who eats with both your fork and your phone. There aren’t always enough plugs to go around, and sharing memories of the meal takes juice. Another piece of wisdom: check their closing hours. Manila’s city center sometimes rolls up earlier than you’d expect during the week.

Lastly, and I can’t say this enough, make a little time before or after your meal to soak in the local area. Ermita’s full of surprises—from galleries to street vendors—and a meal at Miss Kon pairs perfectly with some low-key urban exploring. Whether you’re a visitor, an expat, or just out for the day, Miss Kon brings that rare balance of comfort, ease, and just a touch of city mischief. Not every restaurant can promise a relaxed meal—this one does, and delivers.

Location

Places to Stay Near Miss Kon

Find and Book a Tour

Explore More Travel Guides