
Nielson Tower
Nielson Tower: Philippines' first commercial airport control tower, now a historic landmark housing exquisite dining.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More intimate dining experience

Nielson Tower
Best Time
More intimate dining experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Nielson Tower: Philippines' first commercial airport control tower, now a historic landmark housing exquisite dining.
"A great dining spot with excellent service and superb food in a historic setting."

🎯 Book Ahead for Dining
Reservations are essential, especially for dinner and special occasions. Call or book online well in advance!
👗 Smart Casual Dress Code
Dress to impress! Many visitors opt for elegant attire for a memorable dining experience.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Nielson Tower
Ayala Triangle, Makati
Step back in time at the Philippines' first commercial airport control tower, now a stunning Art Deco landmark.
Blackbird Restaurant Ambiance
Inside Nielson Tower
Experience exquisite fine dining in an Art Deco interior, perfect for romantic dates and special celebrations.
Filipiniana Collection
Filipinas Heritage Library (formerly within Nielson Tower)
Explore a rich collection of rare Filipiniana, offering a deep dive into Philippine culture and history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Taste of History
Dress for the Occasion
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Dining
Reservations are essential, especially for dinner and special occasions. Call or book online well in advance!
👗 Smart Casual Dress Code
Dress to impress! Many visitors opt for elegant attire for a memorable dining experience.
📸 Capture the Art Deco Charm
The interior and exterior offer stunning photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera!
✈️ A Piece of Aviation History
Learn about its past as the Philippines' first commercial airport.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Dining
Reservations are essential, especially for dinner and special occasions. Call or book online well in advance!
👗 Smart Casual Dress Code
Dress to impress! Many visitors opt for elegant attire for a memorable dining experience.
📸 Capture the Art Deco Charm
The interior and exterior offer stunning photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera!
✈️ A Piece of Aviation History
Learn about its past as the Philippines' first commercial airport.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nielson Tower is lauded for its stunning Art Deco architecture and its historical significance as the Philippines' first commercial airport. Diners at Blackbird consistently praise the superb food, excellent service, and captivating ambiance, making it a top choice for special occasions. Some visitors note that it can be pricey, but the overall experience is considered well worth it.
"“ NEILSON TOWER “
Location: Ayala Triangle, Makati Ave., Makati , Philippines
Wayback 1937
THEN AND NOW
DID YOU KNOW ?!
•The Nielson Airport was built by Laurie Reuben Nielson, a businessman born in New Zealand
•It was built in 1937 and served as the control tower and passenger depot of the city's airport. Until 1948
•It was situated in Makati because Paseo de Roxas and Makati Avenue used to be runways
•The Nielson Airport was built on a 42-hectare piece of land in Makati owned by Ayala y Cia
•During WWII, commercial flights were relocated so that Nielson could serve the U.S. Army Air Corps
•After the airport was closed the runways were eventually converted into roads and the tall buildings of today were built along side
•Today, the old Nielson Tower is already known And occupied being The Filipinas Heritage Library, and the home of an extensive collection of rare Filipiniana"
Froilan Bulaong
"This area used to be an airport with this building serving as a hangar?"
Victorio Ong
"Service was excellent, food was superb. A great dining spot."
Dion Jackson (DJ)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nielson Tower is located in the Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati City. It's easily accessible by taxi, ride-sharing services, or public transport. If driving, there is parking available nearby.
Yes, you can reach the Ayala Triangle area via various jeepney and bus routes that pass through Makati. From there, it's a short walk to the tower.
Nielson Tower is situated in the heart of Makati's business district, near major hotels, shopping centers like Greenbelt and Glorietta, and other historical sites.
While Nielson Tower itself may not have dedicated parking, the Ayala Triangle Gardens area offers ample parking spaces in nearby buildings and public lots.
Absolutely! The Ayala Triangle Gardens is a beautifully landscaped area perfect for a stroll, especially in the evenings when it's lit up.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Nielson Tower primarily houses the Blackbird restaurant and previously the Filipinas Heritage Library. Entry to the tower's grounds is generally free, but access to specific establishments requires admission or dining reservations.
The operating hours depend on the establishments within the tower. Blackbird restaurant typically serves lunch and dinner, with hours varying on weekdays and weekends. Check their official website for the most current information.
There is no specific entrance fee to see the exterior of Nielson Tower. However, if you plan to dine at Blackbird or visit any other establishment within, you will be subject to their respective policies.
While you can admire the exterior without a reservation, dining at Blackbird, especially during peak hours or for special occasions, requires advance booking.
The Filipinas Heritage Library was a significant institution housed within Nielson Tower, known for its extensive collection of Filipiniana. Its current status and location should be verified independently.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Blackbird offers contemporary cuisine with a focus on European and Asian flavors, often featuring seafood and classic dishes. They are known for their exquisite dining experience.
Blackbird is considered a fine-dining establishment, so prices are on the higher side. It's a popular choice for special occasions and celebrations.
The dress code is smart casual. While not strictly formal, guests are encouraged to dress elegantly to match the sophisticated ambiance.
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and on weekends, as it's a popular spot for dates and celebrations.
While specific recommendations vary, many diners praise their seafood dishes and the overall quality of the food and service.
📸 📸 Photography
The Art Deco architecture of the tower itself, both exterior and interior, offers fantastic photo opportunities. The surrounding Ayala Triangle Gardens also provide scenic backdrops.
Yes, you can take photos inside Blackbird, but be mindful of other diners and avoid intrusive photography, especially during busy times.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. Professional shoots or commercial photography might require prior permission.
Golden hour (late afternoon) offers beautiful lighting for the exterior. Evenings are also great for capturing the tower's illuminated charm.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities or a DSLR camera will work well. The Art Deco details are best captured with a lens that can handle intricate designs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🥂 Couples & Special Occasions
✈️ History Buffs & Aviation Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rich History of Nielson Tower
After the airport ceased operations in 1948, the runways were eventually converted into roads, and the surrounding area developed into the bustling business district of Makati City we know today. The Nielson Tower itself has been preserved and repurposed, most notably housing the Filipinas Heritage Library, which held an extensive collection of rare Filipiniana. This preservation ensures that a tangible piece of the Philippines' aviation and architectural history remains accessible to the public.
Today, the tower is most famously known as the home of Blackbird, a highly-regarded restaurant. This adaptive reuse allows visitors to experience the tower's historical grandeur while enjoying a modern, sophisticated dining experience. The blend of history and contemporary luxury makes Nielson Tower a unique destination.
Dining at Blackbird: An Exquisite Experience
The menu at Blackbird features contemporary cuisine with influences from European and Asian culinary traditions. Diners often rave about the quality of the ingredients, the skillful preparation, and the attentive service. Popular choices often include their exquisite seafood dishes and well-executed classic meals. The restaurant has also garnered accolades, including awards from Tatler, recognizing its culinary excellence and overall dining experience.
Due to its popularity and the sophisticated nature of the dining experience, reservations are highly recommended, particularly for evenings and weekends. Guests are encouraged to adhere to a smart casual dress code, ensuring the ambiance remains elegant and fitting for the historic venue. Dining at Blackbird is not just a meal; it's an immersion into history with a taste of refined gastronomy.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit