Sky Deck View Bar

Sky Deck View Bar sits on the ninth-floor rooftop of The Bayleaf hotel at the corner of Muralla and Victoria streets, inside the walled city of Intramuros. Its 360-degree outlook takes in the walls, the city skyline and the green of the golf course that now fills the old moat.

The best time to come is late afternoon. The bar has opened from 4pm, and arriving before sunset lets you watch the light change over Intramuros and the city with a drink in hand. Happy hour has run from 5.30pm to 9pm daily, which makes it a reasonable place for an early evening drink after a day of sightseeing in the walled city.

The setting is a classic lounge, with wicker dining furniture and lounge sofas on the terrace. On weekends, acoustic bands play live music, and the kitchen serves an à la carte menu of local and international dishes throughout the evening, with buffet-style dinners on Fridays and Saturdays. Drinks cover classic cocktails, local and imported beers and an international wine list, so there is something for most tastes.

The bar is often busy, especially at sunset and on weekends, and reservations are recommended. You can book through the hotel by phone or email. Smart casual dress is expected. Weather matters on an open rooftop, so check the forecast during the rainy season, and bring a light layer if there is a breeze in the evening.

Sunset is the most popular moment, so if you want a table at the edge of the terrace, arrive well before the sun goes down and ask the staff about seating with the best outlook. Bring insect repellent on still evenings, and take a taxi or ride-hailing car back to your hotel if you are staying outside Intramuros, and book it before you leave the bar on busy nights.

Being inside Intramuros, Sky Deck pairs naturally with an afternoon at Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church, or with an evening walk on the walls. Fort Santiago stays open until 10pm, so you can even visit the fort after your drink. The bar suits couples, groups of friends, photographers and anyone staying in old Manila who wants a relaxed evening without crossing the city to Makati. It is also a good choice for visitors who want a view more than a cutting-edge cocktail.