Best Restaurants of 2016
Cebu continues to experience a dramatic increase in everything; population, buildings, businesses and even traffic. One of my favorite improvements is the incredible expansion in dining options. Without a doubt, Cebu has finally caught up to Manila’s food scene.
2016 saw a number of restaurants and cafes open their doors to the Cebuano public.
Here’s our list of the best restaurants for the year:
1. Kayu: Kitchen + Bar
On the top of our list is the newest restaurant located in 32 Sanson road. In Bisaya, Kayu is the short term for the word Kalayo which means fire. Expect modern fusion cuisine and a cozy dining experience. Guys, it’s the perfect spot for date nights!
Location: Sanson Road Rockwell Cebu, Cebu City, Philippines
Contact: (032) 406 3095
2. Keso
Next is Keso! I am a cheese addict so this is heaven for me. There was a point when I would really drive all the way to the Greenery from our office to have a Keso sandwich for lunch. It’s best eaten hot! It can’t be named Keso right if their Keso isn’t stellar right?
Location: The Greenery – Mabolo, Cebu City, Philippines
Contact: kesogrilledsandwich@gmail.com
3. The Pig and Palm
This place exudes nothing but pure sophistication. From meticulously prepared dishes to a cozy ambiance, you will come back for their modern Spanish meals with a focus on pork dishes. This is the first restaurant in the Philippines of Michelin-star chef Jason Atherton. Expect world class food and cocktails with a touch of Filipino fruits and flavors.
Location: MSY Tower, Pescadores Road, Cebu Business Park, Cebu City, Philippines
Contact: 0917 657 6866
4. Luca’s Test Kitchen
One of the most unexplored restaurants in the metro is Luca’s Test Kitchen. If you are looking for dishes that are close to the home cooked meals of your mother, this is the place to go! Although, it takes extra effort to get to the spot, dining here has never disappointed.
Location: 4th Floor 856 Building A.S. Fortuna St.,Banilad, Mandaue City
Contact: 0925 701 8487
5. Camden Café
One of my most visited cafes this year is Camden café. The spot is secluded but makes for a more intimate and cozy experience. Their pancakes are glorious! When you visit, don’t forget to take a photo of their beautiful white counter or head on up to the bar to see the karma lights.
Location: Unit 3 Rosal Apts. Rosal St. Capitol Site, Cebu City, Philippines
Contact: (032) 888 9176
6. Trattoria da Gianni
Do you want to have a taste of great Italian cooking? Head over to Trattoria da Gianni which was born out of the desire of the Guidicelli’s patriarch (Gianni) to own a restaurant. Known for their bruschettas, my personal favorite is Fresh Pasta with Ragu.
Location: Crossroads Mall, Gov. M. Cuenco Ave, Cebu City, Philippines
Contact: 0977 842 2786
7. Marisse Patisserie
This quaint spot right across Kayu boosts not just a lovely and dainty ambiance but also goodies that are hard to resist. The woman behind this is Marisse Sy who credits her mother for the inspiration to bake, making her delights extra special.
Location: 32 Sanson Road, Cebu City, Philippines
Contact: (032) 406 3099
8. Shaka Hawaiian Restaurant
It’s hard to miss Shaka. This restaurant specializes in irresistible Hawaiian dishes specially made for barkadas to chill and eat. Its al fresco area is good for Friday nights when you want to grab a bite and a beer with your best buddy.
Location: IT PARK Lahug, Cebu City, Philippines
Contact: (032) 514 2667
9. Anzani Prime
Anzani is not new to our ears. We know that it’s one of the best restaurants in Cebu. They recently opened a steakhouse that serves world class steak specialties. Make no mistake though; their desserts are also to die for. The big question – how do you fit all the dessert after the big steak?
Location: Gov Cuenco Ave, Cebu City, Philippines
Contact: 0916 497 5009
How about you? What’s on your list?
