by Drew Sarmiento
Locals unlock the authentic flavors of a place, guiding you to hidden gems, secret dishes, and unforgettable dining experiences. Here, we guide you to seven places to consider for your next meal.
Cebu’s dining scene is as vibrant and diverse as its people—blending local heritage, global influence, and distinct island flair from elegant hotpot nights with the swankiest service and decor to unassuming roadside joints dishing out classic favorites. Cebuanos know good food—and where to find it. Whether you’re in the mood to splurge or looking for food that hits the spot without breaking the bank, here are seven must-visit dining spots that locals swear by, each offering a different but unforgettable experience.
Splurge-Worthy
Enye by Chef Gonzalez
Nestled within the tropical grounds of Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan, Enye blends old-world Spanish charm with coastal sophistication. The space is warm and inviting, with leather and wood furniture in rich brown tones and artful lighting that mirrors the warm glow of sunset. Chef Chele Gonzalez brings refined Spanish cuisine with a modern twist. Standouts include the cochinillo (suckling pig), croquetas with truffle bechamel, and the creamy Basque cheesecake that melts in your mouth. For a truly Cebuano flavor, order the lechon tacos; the meat is full of local flavors that make this the most famous delicacy on the island. Every dish is thoughtfully plated, and every bite is a reminder that luxury isn’t loud—it’s in the details.
Reservations: +63 32 401 9982 | +63 998 587 8287
Good luck Hotpot
Stepping into Good Luck Hotpot feels like entering a cinematic reimagining of a Shanghai supper club. Red interiors with carved lattice panels, luxe red draperies, and polished brass details set the stage for an upscale take on Chinese family-style dining. Situated in the posh NUSTAR Resort and Casino, it’s a favorite for celebrations or impressing out-of- towners. The experience is interactive: diners choose from premium meats (think A5 wagyu and lobster), exotic broths, and extensive side dishes. The rich tom-yum broth is a fiery favorite, while the mushroom soup offers a mellow, umami-laden contrast. It’s not just a hotpot restaurant—it’s a culinary theater that includes traditional Chinese dance performances as dinner entertainment.
Mid-Range Favorites
Mr. A
A longtime favorite for locals and returning visitors alike, Mr. A is where Cebuanos go when they want dinner with a view—literally. Perched on the hillside in Busay, just a short drive from the city, the restaurant offers sweeping, cinematic views of Cebu that transform from sunlit cityscapes to a sea of twinkling lights by night. The menu is as panoramic as the skyline, blending Filipino comfort food with international crowd-pleasers—think sizzling sisig, grilled seafood platters, and pasta dishes that hit the spot. It’s laid-back but elevated, with just the right amount of romance, making it a favorite for date nights and family milestones. Tip: head up just before sunset, order cocktails, and toast to the city’s glow from above.
Cafe Georg
Café Georg in Banilad is the kind of place you keep coming back to. Its interior is cozy and quaint: whitewashed walls, soft floral upholstery, and vintage accents make it feel like you’re dining in your stylish Tita’s house. Known for its comfort food with an international twist, the menu covers everything from pesto pork chop to jambalaya. It’s casual yet refined—a perfect spot for lunch dates, family dinners, or solo comfort sessions with cake and coffee.
Kaayo
Kaayo is a new go-to spot in Kasambagan for classic local dishes amidst minimalist interiors, earthy tones, and woven textures. Locals love it for both the flavor and the space. The menu is proudly Filipino, reimagined with flair and respect for tradition. Their sisig and Bicol express are bold in flavor and more beautifully presented than usual. Kaayo is where food tells stories of artisans and heritage.
Budget-Friendly Gems
Trillis
Hidden along the busy stretch of AS Fortuna is Trillis, a casual diner with serious flavor cred. Their grilled specials are legendary: barbecue chicken, barbecue pork, pork belly, chorizo, and more. The dishes are hearty, flavorful, and generously portioned, making it a go-to for group hangouts and late-night cravings. It’s affordable comfort food that you keep coming back to again and again.
Noy’s Yellow Chicken
At first glance, Noy’s Yellow Chicken in Mabolo might seem unassuming, with plastic chairs and a counter- service setup. But what it lacks in polish, it makes up for in taste and loyalty. The star is the yellow chicken—slow-cooked in a turmeric-based marinade that seeps into every tender bite. Served with rice and chili sauce, it hits the spot every time. This is where you can show up whenever hunger strikes, come as you are, and leave with your belly satisfied.
Each spot reflects Cebu’s growing culinary landscape while deeply rooted in local tastes and sensibilities. Whether dressed to the nines or in flip-flops, Cebu always has a table waiting for you. Mangaon ta!