This is probably the oddest bar I visited, and even if it does not stand out for its Martinis, it deserves a post. This is the story: in 1973 former professor Jim Turner, inspired by Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings books, created a bar in manila called Hobbit House. OK, what’s the news? Well, the bar staff is composed only of “little people”, or dwarfs as you prefer. You’ll see a massive mural with characters from the Hobbit, and you’ll enter (of course) through a big colorful circular door. Once you pass through the door, a bell will ring to welcome you into a candles-lighted room filled with paintings from the Tolkien trilogy. Most probably, live music will be on, mixing folk, rock, blues, jazz and reggae. Head to the bar, where – apart from a MArtini – you can try “Lambanog”, the veeery sweet local coconut liquor. With your drink, you can get some interesting finger food: try the spicy Taquitos.
All of this, surrounded by very friendly and big-smiling mini-waiters and mini-bartenders. And the best part is that in the last 35 years Mr Turner, that you’ll most probably meet at the bar quietly drinking his beer, has been rescuing dozens of “little men” from the worst Manila streets and got them a decent job in the bar. Thinking of this, you’ll enjoy the mini-Elvis who will sing for you even more. Classic Martini rate: 6/10.
The Martini Hour 