Overview
Raffles Makati is one of 777 houses in line for the stars, located in Manila, Philippines. The case for its first star rests on sustained recognitions and guest endorsement: an EMPTYJET Consensus of 97/100 and a guest ranking of N° 146 of 777; Best in Country as the N°1 house in Philippines; One MICHELIN Key; recognition by Forbes Travel Guide 2026; Manila Overseas Press Club Hotel of the Year 2023; Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice and placement among Tripadvisor's Top 25 Hotels in the Philippines. The house offers 32 suites with Raffles Butler Service, a 1200 sq m Fairmont Spa and an open-air pool on the 9th floor.
Why the Shortlist
The case for Raffles Makati's progression to a first EMPTYJET star rests on both guest endorsement and institutional recognition. Professional honours include One Key from the MICHELIN Guide, recognition by Forbes Travel Guide 2026, Manila Overseas Press Club Hotel of the Year 2023, and Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice 2018. Concrete facility strengths — 32 suites with Raffles Butler Service and suite inclusions (daily breakfast, afternoon tea, evening cocktails) and a 1200 sq m Fairmont Spa — supply the practical evidence that brings the hotel's first star closer.
History
Raffles Makati opened its doors on 3 December 2012, marking the arrival of a new era of luxury hospitality in Manila's Central Business District. The launch of the Raffles and Fairmont Makati complex was notable as the first opening of luxury hotels in the district in 18 years. Since its inception, Raffles Makati has hosted a literary programme, the Authors-in-Residence initiative, which began in 2013 and has welcomed bestselling authors and literary events to the property. The hotel has also garnered recognition as the Manila Overseas Press Club Hotel of the Year in 2023 and was a recipient of the Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice award in 2018. It is consistently ranked among the Top 25 Hotels in the Philippines by Tripadvisor.
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Architecture & interiors
Raffles Makati is housed within a 30-storey building in Makati's Central Business District. The design of the hotel reflects a blend of timeless elegance and contemporary sophistication, with each of its 32 suites featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that frame expansive views of the urban landscape. The interiors are designed to offer a serene escape, with an emphasis on natural light and panoramic city vistas. The building's verticality and modern lines contribute to its prominence within the district, while the interiors are curated to provide both comfort and a sense of refined luxury.
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Rooms & suites
Raffles Makati is an all-suite property, offering a total of 32 suites. Each suite is designed to provide a tranquil retreat, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that offer sweeping views of the Makati cityscape. The suites blend classic elegance with modern sophistication, and are equipped with amenities such as daily complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea, evening cocktails, and the renowned Raffles Butler Service, which includes in-suite registration and packing assistance.
Guests also benefit from exclusive privileges such as breakfast served in Mirèio or Spectrum, and access to the Raffles Butlers, who provide anticipatory and personalised service. For those seeking extended stays, the property offers one-to-four-bedroom residences with fully equipped kitchens, combining the comforts of home with the services of a luxury hotel.
Dining
Mirèio
Mirèio is the hotel's signature restaurant, located on the 9th floor. It offers authentic Provençal and French-inspired cuisine in an elegant brasserie-style setting. Mirèio has been recognised among the Top 20 Best Restaurants by Philippine Tatler, underscoring its reputation for culinary excellence.
Spectrum
Situated at the lobby level, Spectrum is an all-day dining venue featuring international cuisine from China, the Middle East, India, Europe, and the Philippines. The restaurant is designed to showcase fine cuisines from across the globe, catering to a diverse palate.
Writers Bar
A tribute to the literary heritage of Raffles, Writers Bar serves classic cocktails, light snacks, and traditional afternoon tea. The venue honours the writers who frequented Raffles Singapore and provides a refined setting for social gatherings.
Long Bar
Long Bar offers a warm and lively atmosphere, serving signature cocktails in a convivial setting. It is a popular destination for both guests and locals seeking a relaxed yet vibrant bar experience.
Mistral Rooftop Bar
Located on the 10th floor, Mistral Rooftop Bar provides panoramic views of the Makati city skyline. It is an ideal spot to unwind at day's end, with a selection of drinks and light fare.
Fairmont Lounge
The Fairmont Lounge is a versatile space, pleasant and bright by day and intimate by night. It is suited for informal business discussions, afternoon tea, or a relaxing drink.
Café Macaron
Café Macaron offers gourmet sandwiches, home-made cakes, and handcrafted pastries, including signature macarons featuring local flavours. It is a popular choice for light bites and sweet treats throughout the day.
Spa & wellness
The Fairmont Spa at Raffles Makati encompasses 1,200 square metres of soothing spaces, offering a comprehensive menu of natural therapies and signature treatments that highlight traditional Filipino techniques. The spa is located on the 9th floor and features luxurious spa suites, a eucalyptus steam room, a relaxation room, and an outdoor pool.
Guests have access to a 24-hour fitness centre with city views, and the pool is open daily from 6.00am to 10.00pm. The spa operates from 8.00am to 10.00pm, providing flexibility for guests seeking relaxation or rejuvenation at any time of day. The property also houses the Teng Roma Salon, with one of the country's best hair stylists in residence.
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Service & reputation
Raffles Makati is widely recognised for its attentive and anticipatory service, anchored by the Raffles Butler Service, which provides personalised assistance including in-suite registration and packing.
The property has been acknowledged by Forbes Travel Guide for 2026 and has received several accolades, including the Manila Overseas Press Club Hotel of the Year 2023, Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice 2018, and consistent ranking among the Top 25 Hotels in the Philippines by Tripadvisor. These distinctions reflect the hotel's commitment to excellence in guest experience and service.
Location & setting
Raffles Makati is situated at 1 Raffles Drive, Makati Avenue, within Manila's Central Business District. The hotel is located in the financial district of Makati, placing guests within walking distance of prominent landmarks such as the Zuellig Building and the Ayala Museum. This central location offers convenient access to the city's business, cultural, and retail destinations, making it an ideal base for both business and leisure travellers.
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The EMPTYJET verdict
Raffles Makati is a compelling choice for travellers seeking a suite-only luxury experience in Manila's most dynamic district. Its MICHELIN Guide One Key, consistently high guest ratings, and attentive butler service set it apart as a property that delivers both comfort and distinction. The curated dining programme, comprehensive wellness facilities, and central location make it particularly well-suited for those who value refined service, privacy, and access to the city's business and cultural offerings. Raffles Makati is especially recommended for guests who appreciate a blend of classic elegance and contemporary amenities in a setting recognised by both industry and guest accolades.







