Nestled in the heart of Westchester County, White Plains boasts a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. From upscale fine dining establishments to cozy neighborhood eateries, there’s something to delight every food lover’s palate.
In this article, we’ll explore the top eight restaurants in White Plains that offer exceptional cuisine, impeccable service, and unforgettable dining experiences.
1. Earth Kitchen
It looks like Earth Kitchen is always full of patrons. Anytime you walk by it, you’ll see a lot of parked automobiles outside. Enter and you’ll see why: the staff is welcoming and attentive, and the atmosphere is charming with its charming elements of wood and plants.
This establishment has demonstrated that providing high-quality meals will result in repeat business. Although the price tags don’t exactly scream “budget,” you can still be confident that the cuisine is of a high caliber. The food, which they market as sustainable, local, and healthful, supports the goods produced by indigenous tribes and nearby farms—many of the products they use come from collaborating with the recently enlarged Got Heart Foundation.
2. Puto, kutsinta, and kesong puti stalls
This idea sums up the White Plains/St. Ignatius region better than any other. The neighborhood’s go-to spot for an afternoon snack or pasalubong is the little stands serving puto, kutsinta, and kesong puti. For those like me who reside in the vicinity, satisfying a hankering for spaghetti with white cheese or an omelet only requires a ten-minute stroll. Take some home with you if you happen to walk by, as you won’t find anything similar anyplace else in the Quezon City region.
3. Farina’s Ilocos Empanada
There’s no better location to get reasonably priced, expertly prepared Ilocano food than Farina’s Ilocos Empanada. They began as a little stand along Visayas Avenue and have now grown to other locations across the city. The diner along White Plains is a no-frills open-air eatery featuring wooden tables and chairs.
In addition to producing their well-known empanadas to order, they also provide a variety of other comfort foods, like bagnet, miki bihon, pinakbet, and poqui poqui, an Ilocano dish made with eggplant. Due to its 24-hour operation, this restaurant is ideal for those who want to dine late.
4. Roast
Located along Katipunan Avenue on the second floor of the new Linear building is a charming cafe/restaurant called Roast. The inside has a wood-lined bar adorned with coffee bags and a neatly arranged disarray of cups, glasses, and various coffee tastes, giving the architecture a basic, industrial vibe.
There are about four tables inside, which adds to its quaint appeal (larger groups can find more al fresco tables in the balcony area). Thinking about how great this place could be for working, given the natural light and variety of coffee options, was one of the first things that came to mind.
5. Basil
Situated near the well-known White Plains garden/landscaping supply area is the Thai restaurant Basil. The interior design is Thai-inspired and has warm, traditional touches such as plants. You may have your lunch meetings, take someone out on a date, or have Sunday lunch with the family here since the setup is classy without being scary.
6. Goldsprint
This is the place to be if you enjoy beer, burgers, and motorcycles! Get Up and Ride, Breakaway Sausage, and Sprint Burger are among the menu items at Goldsprint, a restaurant with a cycling motif. Best sellers include Get Up and Ride, Green Trail, Sprint Burger, and Burger Domestique. They also offer local and craft beers and host an indoor cycling event. If you’re nearby, check them out and enjoy delicious cuisine and company with like-minded individuals.
7. Bawai’s
Vietnamese people refer to their grandparents as “bawai.” This restaurant, which first opened in Tagaytay and then opened a second location in Manila in 2013, prides itself on maintaining a cozy and laid-back vibe while providing food that is designed to be shared.
The light Goi Con, which consists of caramelized pork and steamed fresh shrimp rolls, the Pho/noodle soups Pho Ga (chicken) and Pho Bo (beef), and the lemongrass fillet Ca Nuong Xa Ot are some of the audience favorites. Make sure you get the classic drip coffee before you depart.
8. K and L by Blushing Cupcakes
Initially, Blushing Cupcakes was a little storefront along Libis, next to Shopwise, that offered a limited assortment of desserts. Since then, it has grown to a larger location (Sky Garden, SM North Edsa) where it now offers a wider menu that includes their famous sweets. They also sell wine and strawberry jam, among other Baguio items. K + L by Blushing Cupcakes, its newest outpost along St. Ignatius, features a cozy, homey vibe that makes it ideal for casual dining.