Ecstasy /ˈekstəsē/: This can either refer to a state of great happiness and excitement or an amphetamine-based drug with euphoric and hallucinatory effects. Sweet Ecstasy, in our case, refers to the former — just in case you’re thinking this is some drug-dependent millennial’s “badass” entry about her frenzy-filled life.
While hunting for the best milkshake places in Metro Manila (old and new), we stumbled upon this outdoor restaurant in Makati City, which looks like a drive-by that you’d most likely see in the diner-filled roads of Western countries.
From what I’ve heard, Sweet Ecstasy was originally a cookie stall in Cubao — thus their name. However, they expanded into a burger joint that has been a big hit since it opened its doors (or windows) to Makati City customers in 2015. Albeit visiting on a Sunday night, the place was teeming with parents and their little kids munching on burgers, chicken wings, and sipping on milkshakes that can give you a sugar rush.
We grabbed burgers, fries, and milkshakes since it was a post-dinner meal and even though nutritionists would likely say that it’s not healthy to eat so much during dinner time, this one was worth it.
With a lot of burger joints popping out here and there, all with their outrageously-sized burgers filled with whatnots you’d never imagine to be inside a burger, Sweet Ecstasy serves as a sweet escape to the times when everything was just simple yet satisfying. You’ll have to choose between their Cheeseburger (P195), Hamburger (P175), and The Double (P265) which all contain their specialty secret ingredients in the “ecstasy sauce”.
Wings are available in Sriracha Lime, Buffalo, Soy Honey, and Honey BBQ for only P245. The simplest of their fries, called “Fantastic Fries”, can be availed at P80. They also have onion rings, kamote fries, pickle fries, burger fries, and their special ecstasy fries.
I’d have to be honest that I was never a fan of establishments that would require their customers to eat with their bare hands, but let’s just say this one’s part of the exceptions. After all, the chicken wings experience wouldn’t be complete if you opt for utensils. They offer plastic gloves to the picky eaters who don’t want to “get down and dirty”. Plus, there’s also a lavatory at the corner where you can wash your hands.
Their milkshakes are definitely a must-try. In a world where mugs with overflowing candies and sprinkles take the spotlight, Sweet Ecstasy’s humble milkshakes in a paper cup is more than what meets the eye. They also have “Adult Milkshakes” (P185) for those who want to add a little bit of booze in their drinks. Kids can always go for the classic (P160) or premium ones (P185). I personally love the Mud Pie and Fudge Brownie, in case you might want to order something tested by a chocolate-obsessed millennial.
Don’t let the packaging fool you. This cup contains loads of sugary goodness.
Tip: Don’t forget to grab cups of water! The milkshakes are really sweet.
It would be better if their cups are sturdier, though. The paper cups tend to get soggy over time. Not that advisable for takeout orders that take more than an hour on the road.
The place is just what it is in the photos. Quite small if you ask me, but it’s suitable for its location given the on-the-go customers from business establishments surrounding the resto. The walls are adorned by Sweet Ecstasy-inspired posters that are witty enough to make you want to read every single word.
Sweet Ecstasy from the outside.
Try it out yourself and drop by 10 Jupiter cor. Asteroid Street in Barangay Bel-Air, Makati City. It’s open every day from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.
I solemnly swear that I will come back for more, so see you around!
Sweet Ecstasy has recently opened its third branch at the second floor of Uptown Parade in Bonifacio Global City. Really near the Palace Pool Club and Valkyrie, if ever you need burgers after that night out!
Ces the millennial says: I was too full when we visited the place so I had to bring my Mud Pie milkshake at home. Since it was already late at night and I can feel that the sugar is taking effect, I left it in our freezer and voila, instant ice cream the next morning! Not really sure if it’s advisable to do this, but at least do it once. You won’t regret it. Just like how I didn’t regret heading to Makati to munch on extra calories late at night. Just don’t forget to bring at least P400 if you’re dining solo. Multiply that by two if a friend’s tagging along with you.