You’re driving through Malate or maybe winding down a long shift in Manila, and the hunger hits. Not the "I could eat a snack" kind of hunger, but the deep, soul-searching need for cold beer and sizzling plates. That is usually when someone mentions 99 Saloon & Grill. It isn't the fanciest place in the city. Far from it. But there is a specific kind of magic in its loud, unpretentious atmosphere that keep locals and travelers coming back even when newer, shinier bistros open up down the street.
Honestly, it’s one of those spots that feels like it’s been there forever.
If you are looking for white tablecloths, keep driving. This is a place where the floor might be a little sticky and the music is definitely going to be louder than your conversation. But that’s the point. It’s a saloon. It’s a grill. It is a refuge for the night owls who want to eat like kings without checking their bank account balance twice.
What Actually Happens Inside 99 Saloon & Grill
The vibe is chaotic. In a good way. You walk in and the smell of calamansi, soy sauce, and searing pork hits you immediately. It's the scent of the Philippines' nightlife. Most people come here for the live music. Depending on the night, you might get a soulful acoustic duo or a full-on band covering 80s rock hits with enough energy to power a small village.
People don't just sit and eat. They linger.
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You’ll see groups of office workers who clearly gave up on going home early, tourists looking a bit overwhelmed by the noise, and regulars who the servers know by name. The seating is functional. The lighting is dim enough to hide the fact that you’ve had one too many buckets of beer. It’s a "come as you are" type of establishment, which is a breath of fresh air in a city that is increasingly obsessed with Instagrammable aesthetics over actual substance.
The Food: Beyond the Bar Snacks
Let's talk about the menu because, despite the "saloon" moniker, the "grill" part of the name does a lot of heavy lifting. 99 Saloon & Grill is famous for its Sizzling Sisig. Now, everyone in Manila claims to have the best sisig. It’s a tired trope. But the version here has that specific crunch-to-fat ratio that makes it dangerous. It arrives on a cast-iron plate, screaming hot, spitting oil, and demanding you crack an egg over it immediately.
- Crispy Pata: It’s huge. It’s deep-fried. It’s basically a cardiovascular challenge, but the skin is shattered-glass thin and the meat inside stays surprisingly moist.
- Grilled Liempo: Marinated long enough that the flavor actually reaches the bone. It’s salty, sweet, and smoky.
- Sinigang: Because sometimes you need that sour hit to cut through all the grease and beer.
The pricing is the real kicker. In an era where a "craft" cocktail costs more than a decent pair of shoes, this place stays grounded. You can actually afford to feed a group of four without feeling like you’ve been robbed. It’s honest food. No foams, no deconstructions, just heat and seasoning.
Why Malate’s Culture Lives Here
Malate has changed a lot over the last decade. It used to be the bohemian heart of Manila, full of artists, poets, and the LGBTQ+ vanguard. While a lot of that has moved to Makati or BGC, the "old soul" of the district still breathes inside places like 99 Saloon & Grill. It’s gritty. It’s real. It hasn't been sanitized for a corporate audience.
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You’ve probably heard people say Malate is "too much" or "too loud." Maybe. But for those who find Makati too sterile, this is home. The staff doesn't hover. They aren't trained in high-end hospitality schools; they’re just fast. They have to be. When the house is packed and the band is mid-chorus, you don't want a waiter explaining the provenance of the pork. You just want your beer.
The Music Scene
The stage is small, but the talent is usually surprisingly high. Manila is a city of singers, and this venue acts as a proving ground. You’ll hear covers of Journey, Bon Jovi, and OPM (Original Pilipino Music) classics that make the whole room burst into a spontaneous sing-along. It’s loud. Don't come here for a first date if you actually want to learn about the other person’s childhood. Come here for a third date when you just want to drink and laugh.
Addressing the Common Complaints
Is it perfect? No. Nothing in Malate is.
- The Smoke: It’s a grill. Sometimes the ventilation struggles to keep up with the sheer volume of sizzling plates. You will leave smelling like barbecue. Embrace it.
- The Noise: If you are sensitive to decibels, bring earplugs or stay home. The acoustics are basically "concrete box," so the sound bounces.
- The Crowd: It gets packed. Especially on Friday and Saturday nights. If you show up at 9:00 PM without a plan, you might be standing by the bar for a while.
Some people find the area a bit sketchy. It’s Manila. Keep your wits about you, use a reputable ride-sharing app like Grab to get there and back, and you’ll be fine. The security at the door is usually pretty observant, ensuring the rowdiness stays inside the "friendly" zone.
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Navigating Your Visit
If you’re planning to head down to 99 Saloon & Grill, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, don't dress up. This isn't the place for your newest white sneakers or a silk dress. Wear something comfortable that you don't mind getting a little "nightlife" on.
Second, go with a group. The portions are designed for sharing. Ordering a Crispy Pata for yourself is a bold move that your doctor would definitely advise against. The joy of the place is the communal experience—the "tagay" culture where everyone shares from the same bucket and the same platters.
Third, check the schedule. While they usually have music every night, some nights are themed or feature specific local bands that bring in a much heavier crowd. If you want a slightly quieter experience (emphasis on slightly), a Tuesday or Wednesday night is your best bet.
Actionable Insights for the Best Experience
- Arrival Time: Aim for 7:30 PM if you want a prime table near the stage. If you arrive after 10:00 PM, be prepared to wait or squeeze into a corner.
- The "Must-Order": Get the Sizzling Sisig and the Garlic Rice. It’s the foundational meal of the Manila night.
- Transport: Parking in this part of Malate is a nightmare. Do not drive yourself. Take a Grab. It’s safer and saves you thirty minutes of circling the block.
- Cash is King: While many places are moving toward digital payments, having cash on hand for tips and quick transactions makes life much easier when the place is buzzing.
- Stay Hydrated: The food is salty and the beer flows easily. Alternate with water unless you want a monumental headache the next morning.
The reality of 99 Saloon & Grill is that it represents a slice of Manila that is slowly disappearing. It’s a place of genuine connection, loud music, and heavy food. It’s not trying to be a "concept" or a "pop-up." It just is what it is: a solid, reliable spot to spend a night you probably won't fully remember with friends you'll never forget.
Make sure to check their social media pages or call ahead if you're looking for a specific performer, as the lineup can change without much notice. Once you’re there, just lean into the noise. It’s part of the charm.