The story
Tandem is a contemporary restaurant in Makati, run by husband-and-wife chefs Alex and Mikee Tan. The name reflects their shared vision: a place where global techniques, personal experiences, and sustainable practices come together. The cuisine draws from worldwide influences, filtered through the couple’s creativity and a firm commitment to zero-waste cooking. Within months of opening in 2023, Tandem was named one of Manila’s best restaurants by multiple publications. When the MICHELIN Guide debuted in the Philippines in 2025, it awarded the restaurant MICHELIN Selected status.
Every month, Tandem cycles through distinct formats. For the first three weeks, they offer a thematic tasting menu; the last week shifts to an à la carte menu. The last Sunday of each month is reserved for a special brunch menu. This structure keeps the kitchen nimble and the dining experience fresh, allowing the Tans to explore new ideas while respecting seasonality. Thematic menus might highlight a particular ingredient, region, or technique, always built on precision and a playful curiosity.
Diners can choose between counter dining and table service, with both indoor air-conditioned and outdoor seating available. Cocktails and a thoughtfully curated beverage menu complement the food. The restaurant also caters private parties. Tandem’s atmosphere is warm and personal, reflecting the couple’s hands-on presence in the kitchen and dining room. It is a restaurant driven by conviction—where every plate tells a story of technique, sustainability, and a shared life in food.
Recognition
Ambience
Location