Cebu is a city that has always been serious about its food. Lechon, the roasted pig that Anthony Bourdain himself called the best pork ever, is part of the city’s DNA. The oldest city in the Philippines is also home to a plethora of top-quality restaurants offering amazing eats, superb coffee, and a surprsingly wide array of cocktails and beer. Cebu’s food scene has an international flair that can possibly rival (or top) the options in the country’s capital.
We love lechon (we always will!), but these other spots in Cebu are worth a visit, too.
1. Good beer: Turning Wheels Brewery
Must try: Whatever is on tap
Budget for 2: About PHP800
Turning Wheels has made its mark in the local craft beer scene — here’s where all the magic started. Their brewery doubles as a small but friendly drinking spot. With an unmarked door, this “secret” watering hole is the go-to place of beer nerds who want good drinks and good conversation. There are only about four tables in the brewery, so expect to share a seat and win a beer-loving friend. The resident bartender who calls himself Jas (TBH,we’re not sure if it’s really his name. He’s such a joker.) is super hospitable, and always eager to share Cebu stories and travel tips. BTW, fill your tummies before visiting the brewery. The only food item on the menu is grilled cheese sandwich. 11, Gov. M. Cuenco Ave, Cebu City; +63 9175520793, Facebook. 6pm onwards, best to call for an appointment
2. Mexican Food: Maya
Must try: Ceviche pescado
Budget for 2: About PHP1300
With lofty cielings and detailed decor, Maya Mexican Restaurant is a good place for a fun night with the girls or a small, celebratory dinner with family. It has an extensive menu and an even more extensive tequila bar. They supposedly have the largest collection of 100% pure agave tequilas in the country, with shots ranging from PHP150 to PHP10,000. Maya offers the usuals like burritos, tacos, ceviche, nachos — but done in an impressive way. The servings are huge, so order with caution. Even if you’re not in the mood for drinks, do try one of their margaritas to make the experience complete. Crossroads Mall, Gov. M. Cuenco Ave, Cebu City; +63 32 2389552, Facebook. Daily 5pm-11pm
3. Carbs, carbs, carbs: Abaca
Must try: salted caramel tarts
Budget for 2: About PHP300
Abaca is a two-story coffee shop with handsome interiors and Instagram-friendly carbs. It is seemingly the hangout of choice of the young, artistic crowd in the area. We suggest that you enjoy the hip vibe with a nice cuppa coffee and maybe a croissant. But if you’re looking for a snack or a quick breakfast to bring back to your hotel, wait for Abaca’s bread sale, which starts everyday at 8pm. Crossroads Mall, Gov. M. Cuenco Ave, Cebu City; ++63 32 2620969, Facebook. Daily 7am- 10pm
4. French food: Tymad Bistro
Must try: Four-cheese crepe
Budget for 2: ABout PHP1000
Just a stone throw’s away from Cebu’s Henry Hotel is a small French bistro with a surprisingly extensive menu. Owned and run by French Chef Philippe Estienne, Tymad Bistro offers good brunch options, from kougn aman to very filling crepes, plus they have wine and coffee too. On display near the entrance is a variety of breads, pastries and cakes. If you’re looking for something heavier, go for the crepes on the menu, which have huge servings. The kitchen obviously doesn’t scrimp on ingredients. There is no shortage of dessert options too. Try the l’opera cake or creme brûlé. Try to get a reservation if you’re planning to go on peak hours. Paseo Saturnino, Maria Luisa Road, Cebu City; +63 32 239 7385, Facebook. Daily, 7am-11pm
5. Chinese food: Harbour City
Must try: Steamed rice and salted egg fried chicken
Budget for 2: About PHP300
Ask Cebu locals for a recommendation, and they are likely to suggest this decades-old fastfood chain serving dimsum and other Chinese favorites. Harbour City doesn’t look special at all, and it probably isn’t — but it serves good fast food, and that’s what matters. Try the strangely satisfying steamed fried rice, which is already good on its own but better paired with something crispy like lumpia, salted egg fried chicken or whatever is available on the carts. Don’t expect 5 class service, but be ready for a filling and satisfying meal at a super friendly price. Everything is best enjoyed with a glass of Coke! Cebu City Ayala Center Cebu, 3rd Level, Paseo Ciudad, Cebu City; +63 32 231 6283, Facebook. Daily 8am-6pm
6. Pizza: Isla Ora
Must try: Bantayan Island crab pizza
Budget for 2: About PHP800, with beer
Isla Ora is the kind of place you’d want to visit if you want to be reminded that you are on vacation. They only serve pizza here, but every element added to the place gives it a relaxing island vibe — music is good, the servers are super attentive and they use zero plastic. It is the project of Bantayan Island volunteers who came to help the victims of the 2013 typhoon Yolanda. Those of them who decided to stay in the Philippines needed a way to make money, so Isla Ora came to life. But don’t get the idea that the pizzas are expensive because they are so reasonably priced. Plus, you can get two flavors in one order. They serve craft beer from from Cebruery and Turning Wheels, too! 54 Pres. Roxas St, Cebu City; +63 32 415 5136, Facebook. 4-m-6pm
7. Wings: Gibb’s Hot Wings
Must try: The freakin’ hot wings
Budget for 2: About PHP600
There is nothing like enjoying a platter of wings and a glass of beer in the al fresco area of Gibb’s Hot Wings. Yes, there are numerous places that serve chicken Manila, but Gibb’s manages to make this ol’ favorite a bit more interesting with all the flavors they offer. They have five levels of hotness which will test your love for spicy food. They also have kid-friendly flavors like cheesy wings (Angel wings), hickory mustard and more. Also try the mozarella sticks for appetizer. Note that since the wings are doused in sauce, the skin is not as crispy as some diners would want. Streetscape Cebu, Paseo Saturnino, Cebu City; 632 5052121, Facebook. Daily lunch time and dinnertime
8. Fine dining: Palermo
Must try: The steak
Budget for two: About PHP3,000 (with wine)
If you happen to find yourself in Plantation Bay, then you’ll be spoiled for choice because there are so many restaurants in this family-friendly resort. Palermo – an Italian restaurant serving pasta, tapas, and steak – stands out because of the fine service and the interesting choices on the menu. It’s ideal for parents who want a quick escape from the kids. Fill up your tummies with appetizers like a cheese platter or Palermo’s interesting spin on calamares. Wine is surprisingly affordable, so if you’re not exactly a picky drinker, go ahead and indulge in a bottle. Plantation Bay Resort and Spa, Marigondon, Lapu-Lapu City; +63 32 5059800. 6 AM to 11 PM
BONUS: Ayer lechon
Budget: PHP700/ kilo
When friends and relatives find out you’re going to Cebu, they’ll probably ask you to bring them lechon. Ayer in Mactan airport is a super-convenient option. They know the SOP of carrying lechon on a plane, so no need to worry about packing and logistics. Just buy a kilo or two before checking in, and you’re good to go. Lapu-Lapu Airport Rd, Lapu-Lapu City
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