Hangar 18 is the newest music bar and bistro to take flight in one of Manila’s most storied districts – Ermita!
Officially opening its doors on September 20, 2025, Hangar 18 debuted with a packed launch night featuring six powerhouse local bands – Save The Prophet, LVNA, Deadbeat Surfers, Bandito, Wabash, and F4E – and an irresistible ₱18 Beer Deal that had guests cheering long into the night.
Located on the ground floor of the historic Casa Tesoro Building on Mabini Street, Ermita, the venue has quickly become a new favorite for Manila locals looking for a place that blends delicious food, good music, and timeless charm.
And not just local-locals! Fans have been known to watch the 1st set on a Facebook Live and travel down from Quezon City just to catch the band in person!
A Nod to the Past, A Toast to the Future
In the 1990s, Ermita was known as the heartbeat of Manila’s nightlife – filled with curio shops, pubs, and live music bars that hosted some of the best OPM acts of the decade. Hangar 18 captures that same energy, paying tribute to Ermita’s golden era while giving it a fresh, Instagram-worthy twist.
With a gentle and respectful transition, the owners of Hangar18 have also successfully retained the ex-pat regulars of its predecessor, Dakota Cabin.
“We wanted to bring back the lure of the old Ermita indie music scene, but with a modern twist,” said Helen Atanacio, one of Hangar 18’s owners. “Dakota Cabin had its loyal crowd, and we didn’t want to lose that. Instead, we built on it – keeping the warmth and familiarity, and retaining the bar and kitchen staff team, while creating a fresh space where live music, good food, and conversation thrive.”
Inside, the bistro’s aviation-inspired interiors evoke the mystery and allure of a vintage speakeasy. Guests are greeted by cockpit-style sofa seats in copper and rivets, silver Art Deco lighting with mounted Dakota planes, and a mirrored bar that stretches almost half the length of the venue.
It’s a space that feels both nostalgic and exciting – perfect for those chasing a story, a song, or just the next great night out.
Familiar Flavors, Fresh Take
The Hangar 18 kitchen takes inspiration from the best of Tacio’s Bar & Bistro and Dakota Cabin’s crowd-favorites. Expect a menu that’s familiar yet refined, featuring hearty bar bites and Filipino classics – comfort food at reasonable prices – ideal for dinner, after-work drinks, or late-night bites.
The fresh Calamari is already leading the charge as the most ordered menu item, with some noticeable nods and reviews going to the [very reasonably priced] steak!
Why “Hangar 18”?
The name itself is packed with meaning. It’s a tribute to aviation – and to Dakota Cabin, the venue that came before.
It’s also a playful nod to “Hangar 18” by Megadeth, and the legend of Area 51, where Hangar 18 is said to hide remnants of mysterious alien aircrafts.
The result? A brand that’s layered, intriguing, and distinctly memorable.
An Iconic Setting Reimagined
The Casa Tesoro Building, built in 1901 and considered to be one of the oldest Art Deco buildings in the district, adds to the venue’s undeniable character.
Once a family vacation house, later a World War II Army headquarters, and even a post office, it now houses a vibrant mix of art, business, and nightlife – with Hangar 18 as its crown jewel.
If you ever miss the days when Ermita’s pubs and music bars pulsed with live OPM and the city’s creative energy, Hangar 18 is reviving that vibe!
Hangar 18 Bar & Bistro is open daily from 4 PM till late, featuring a rotating line-up of bands, acoustic nights, and themed events that celebrate Manila’s vibrant music culture. Follow their Facebook & Instagram accounts to stay up to date on upcoming events and features.
Hangar 18 Bar & Bistro
Ground Floor, Casa Tesoro Building, 1335 Mabini Street, Ermita, Manila
Open daily from 4 PM till late
