The party scene has never been the same when Buddha-Bar first came in five years ago.
The bar, restaurant and hotel franchise created by restaurateur Raymond Visan and DJ and interior designer Claude Challe originated in Paris, France in 1996.
The Buddha-Bar “soon became a reference among foreign yuppies and wealthy tourists visiting the city,” and “has spawned numerous imitators,” becoming popular in part because of the DJ’s choice of eclectic, avant-garde music.
Since then, Buddha-Bar has penetrated over 30 cities worldwide. Beirut, Dubai, London, Kiev, Moscow, Milan, Mexico, Monte Carlo and Prague, as well as in the Philippines.

Buddha-Bar celebrates 5th year anniversary. Photo: Rjay Bulabos

All smiles. Executives of Buddha-Bar Manila joins the 5th year anniversary. (L-R) Carlos Matta, President, and CEO of Buddha-Bar Group; Nabil Souhail, Vice-President for Business Development and Operations of Buddha-Bar Group; Ambassador Amable R. Aguiluz; Chairman of AMA Group of Companies and Buddha-Bar Manila; Tarja Visan, Co-Founder of Buddha-Bar Group; Angelito Agustin, Head of Operations of Buddha-Bar Manila. Photo: Rjay Bulabos
This year, the international brand celebrates its 5th year in Manila.
“Since Buddha-Bar opened its doors in 2012, it has been known for its unique ambiance, world-class food and drinks, and distinct music and vibe. It has also hosted several gatherings like the 1st Philippine Ukulele Festival, Josie Natori Fall and Winter Collection Fashion Show in 2013, E! News Special with Anne Curtis, and the annual worldwide free music festival, Fete de la Musique. Notable international artists such as Renee Olstead, Kenny Wiz, The Fray, and Jonas Brothers, have also performed,” said Angelito Agustin, Head of Operations of Buddha Bar Manila.

Can Can Dancers as one of the highlights of the event. Photo: Rjay Bulabos
The luxurious Buddha-Bar Manila has three floors, the lounge, the restaurant, and a roof deck, and has over 500 seats to accommodate guests for drinks and food. The signature black, red and gold interior that will make you feel that you are actually in Buddha-Bar Paris! The restaurant/lounge has an awesome Asian temple-like design with huge staircases, a giant Buddha, lounge tables, stylish bars, DJ Booth and VIP Rooms.
The restaurant also offers a great selection of Asian fusion such as sushi plates, curries, bento boxes and Vietnamese spring rolls. And when it comes to cocktails and drinks, Buddha Bar offers the widest variety for its partygoers, especially that it throws the best and most stylish events in the metro. Fancy and fabulous gatherings have been the Buddha-Bar Manila signature in throwing memorable happenings.
For this year, Buddha-Bar is already preparing big events that will excite its loyal customers. First is the Grand Raffle Draw of the Maserati this coming April 29, 2017. International DJ Sam Popat will also be coming over to bring his eclectic beats at Buddha-Bar Manila.

Guests enjoy the night’s celebration. Photos: Rjay Bulabos
On May, Buddha-Bar Group’s Liquid Chef, Matthias Giroud is set to visit Buddha-Bar Manila again to share his latest liquid concoctions. This is the perfect event for all alcohol lovers, bartenders, and hoteliers who would want to learn new techniques and get a taste of world-class cocktails from the world-renowned “Alchemist” himself.

The Buddha-Bar menu offers a selection of Pacific Rim cuisine dishes, a masterful blend of fine ingredients and spices where Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and other East Asian flavors combine subtly with Zest of West. Photo: Rjay Bulabos
Corporate Japanese Chef of Buddha-Bar Group will also be visiting on the first week of July to add new flavors to its Japanese-Peruvian menu. The bar will feature a meet-and-greet and real kitchen action where diners will be treated to the art of authentic Nikkei dishes served straight from Chef Shigeki’s station thus, guaranteeing fresh and appetizing fare, as well as a unique experience.
With 15 new concepts underway, including some beach bars, we might also just have a Buddha-Bar Boracay in the near future.
Buddha-Bar Manila is located at Picar Place, Kalayaan Avenue, Makati City. For reservations, call +632 8566859/+632 8566719. You may also reach them at info@buddhabarmanila.com or like and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @BuddhaBarMNL.