Hobbit House

By now, it is an oft told tale as to how former Peace Corps volunteer and college professor Jim Turner was so inspired by Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings books that he founded a bar called Hobbit House entirely staffed by “little people.” Since it opened in 1973 along Mabini St., Malate, the bar has become so famous that it has since opened a branch in Boracay.

From its original location in 1801 Mabini St., regulars now flock to its new site in M.H. del Pilar St., which is just a short walk away from the Ermita Church. The bar was moved to its new address in 2007.

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Upon entering, some of the customers would go straight to the bar area, its shelves lined with an extensive array of liquors and spirits. You can find everything here from Vodka to Tequila to the local coconut liquor known as “Lambanog.” They also offer local and imported beers and cocktails as well. To go with your drink, their menu offers a mix of local and western specialties.

If the action here is getting too much for you, you can take a breather by heading to the “Remembrance, Ye Olde Bistro” located just next to the stage. The area is sort of like a den or “chill-out-room” for the club’s regulars (but anyone can enter). Unlike the décor in the rest of the club, this den looks more like a private men’s club. The walls are lined with century. This is one of the bar’s most popular gathering areas.

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But Hobbit House would be just another bar in Ermita were it not for the little people. Friendly, charming and ever smiling, they are the reason why the bar is what it is today. Every night, you will find them gamely posing for yet another round of photos with tourists and travelers, giving folks back home something to talk about.

Source: www.hobbithousemanila.com

Teaser photo source: philippines.panpages.com/restaurant-and-bar-guide