Aside from a few expensive hostess bars on Mabini Street, just south of Pedro Gil Street, there doesn’t seem to be a whole lot going on in the Ermita section of Manila, Philippines, with the exception of the LA Café at the corner of Salas and MH del Pilar Streets. The few others bars running north on Del Pilar up through Padre Faura Street are all almost empty.
We found LA Café to be exceptional. Here, dozens of freelancers hang out, where beers are 110 pesos, and lady drinks 80 pesos, cheap. There are no bar fines, and ladies set their own rates, running from approximately 1000 to 4000 short time. There is a short time hotel two blocks away that charges 300 pesos for 3 hours, and food can even be ordered through room service. All employees at LA Café are extremely friendly, and one even offered to go with us for a night on the town after her shift ended at midnight. Now that’s service! This bar is highly recommended.
A good place to be. There is a good chance to meet real “amateurs”, girls who come here once in 2 or 3 weeks. They are friendly. There is also no offense from the girls as they are legally not allowed to approach you. You just watch the scene. If you see a girl of your taste, give her sign (smile, blink). She will then sit or stand next to you. Short time (1h) is 1000, all night 2500. Arrange a hotel nearby. I recommend Rothmans which is reliable. They check the girl’s ID, so very safe and reasonable rates.