Cebu Food Trip: 26 Restaurants Worth Traveling For [UPDATED AUGUST 2022]

where to eat in cebu
When visiting Cebu, it’s not enough to take a heritage city tour, experience the beauty of Kawasan Falls, or swim with the whale sharks in Oslob—one must also unearth its culinary secrets. This province is bustling with delicious local delicacies and specialties, and in the city itself, the dining scene has grown so big and diverse. From cheap stalls serving tasty barbecue with puso rice and eternally-crowded lechon places to gastropubs catering to the night owls and posh restaurants owned by Michelin-starred chefs, Cebu has something exciting for your taste buds.

where to eat in cebu
Cebu has a lot of food destinations to explore, so there's no time to think about dieting—just let go and give in! Below, I have compiled the top 24 restaurants, eateries, cafes, and bars worth traveling for.

This list is ranked.


1 | Soba Kamakura

where to eat in cebu

Japanese food in Cebu? Hell, yes. In fact, you MUST fly to the Queen City just to try Chef Hiroyuki Sakata’s food. Soba Kamakura is a 14-seater reservations-only restaurant in Mandaue specializing in soba. The Japanese have this incredible talent of turning something so simple (like buckwheat noodles) into something incredibly delicious, and it is best demonstrated at Kamakura. The tanuki soba which simply has dashi and soy sauce is insane, while the beef soba served with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce is mind-blowing. A lunch set is recommended if you wish to try a variety, but you MUST get any of the soba offerings no matter what. Make sure you reserve seats—and oh, you need to order in advance. Check the menu here.

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Soba Kamakura
EC Building, Greenhills Road, Mandaue City, Cebu
11:30AM – 1:30PM; 5:30PM – 9:30PM
Reservations: +6332.417.2481
Budget: PhP1,000 up/head


2 | The Pig and Palm

where to eat in cebu
I finally tried the famous European-style restaurant, The Pig and Palm, this summer after repeated visits in Cebu. And I think I did so at the right time—the restaurant was almost destroyed by typhoon Odette early this year and is just getting back to its feet, with much renewed inspiration. For a restaurant known for being helmed by a Michelin-starred chef (Jason Atherton), The Pig and Palm is surprisingly casual and laidback—exactly the vibe I like while eating sophisticated food in a very classy setting (quite a contrast, yes). Order the signature house made brioche served with red onion jam and herbed chicken liver mousse—the bread is soft and buttery and the accompaniments are luscious! Impressive is the Pulled Pork and Smoked Red Pepper Tagliatelle topped with a golden egg yolk that sauces up the whole thing once you break into it. Don’t skip desserts and cocktails—the Matcha Cheesecake is the cake of my dreams and the Dill or No Dill and the classic Negroni I ordered were perfectly made.

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The Pig and Palm
MSY Tower, Pescadores Road, Cebu Business Park, Cebu City
+63917.657.6866
Tue - Sun: 11:00AM - 11:00PM
Budget: PhP1,000 up/head


3 | Abaseria

where to eat in cebu
Thanks to the a tour I did with Food Crew PH, I discovered this delicious secret which has been serving Cebu quietly for more than 10 years. The deli and diner offers family heirloom recipes in a quaint and homey atmosphere perfect for friends, families, and even couples. Specialties like the Seafood Salad and Crispy Roast Pork are not to be missed, while desserts such as the much-loved Choco Durian Cake require total submission. After eating or while waiting for your food, look around at the owners’ collections from their travels or buy some souvenirs and homemade jams to take home.


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Abaseria
32 President Quirino Street, Villa Aurora, Kasambagan, Cebu City
9:00AM - 9:00PM
+6332.234.4160
Budget: PhP300 up/head


4 | Matias BBQ

where to eat in cebu
A true Cebu staple, Matias BBQ attracts crowds of hungry diners every day—tourists and locals alike—with its billows of smoke and mouthwatering aromas. Make no mistake: this barbecue eatery actually runs of food despite the heaps of pork belly (liempo), chicken, fish, and chorizo on display, so make sure you arrive before the actual lunch or dinner times. Line up, pick your meats of choice (I recommend trying everything), put them on a plate, and leave them in front of the grill—someone will then take your tasty barbecue to your table. Puso or hanging rice is served on the tables, of course—a perfect accompaniment for your meats. Order San Miguel (or Red Horse, whatever you like), and leave all the guilt behind.

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Matias BBQ
A. S. Fortuna St., Mandaue City, Cebu
11:30AM - 10:00PM
Budget: PhP150 - PhP250/head


5 | Entoy's Bakasihan

where to eat in cebu
If you have watched the Philippines episode of Netflix’s Street Food Asia, then you have heard of Entoy’s Bakasihan, a local favorite in Cordova. Nilarang is a fish soup made with garlic, tomatoes, onions, and ginger, but in Cordova, they put bakasi (moray eel) instead of fish. The eel served here is incredible and well-cooked—the texture is smooth and melty but not slimy. The mildly sour broth is comforting—something you would crave for on a rainy day. The eatery, situated right beside the sea, offers a variety of other delicious and fresh seafood as well, like lato (seaweed) and scallops. If you plan to visit, I suggest heading there straight from the airport because it’s two hours away from the city center.

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Entoy’s Bakasihan 
Barangay Buagsong, Buagsong Barangay Road, Cordova, Cebu
9:00AM - 6:00PM
Budget: as low as PhP60/head


6 | Tavolata

where to eat in cebu
True to its name (which means "table"), Tavolata serves up delicious Italian plates that are humongous and good for sharing. The idea is to celebrate great food with family and friends, so when you visit, make sure you round up everybody. Order the delicious Truffle Pasta made with cream and wild mushrooms, and share some pies such as the Margherita topped with mozzarella, fior de latte, fresh tomatoes, and chopped basil. Extra hungry? Get the signature Chicken Parmesan which is pan-roasted in brown butter, then topped with marinara and mozzarella. The breading is light, crispy, and not too overwhelming—such a delight to eat! They make amazing breads as well (they’re part of the Abaca Group) so try the sourdough served with balsamic, olive oil, and roasted garlic dip. YUM.

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Tavolata
Check locations here.
Budget: PhP500 up/head


7 | Maya

where to eat in cebu
Tacos and tequila is always a great idea, and when in Cebu, you must treat yourself to some fantastic bites and drinks at Maya Mexican Restaurant. Here, Southern California meets Mexico with its selection of tacos, burritos, enchiladas, quesadillas, and fajitas—best enjoyed with a cocktail, tequila shots, or some local craft beers. Order the Carnitas Taco for yourself and share a Queso Fundido and a Camarones Ceviche (cold shrimp cocktail in a spicy tomato juice) with friends. Make sure you try some tequila—they have over 100 bottles in the bar! If you love latin dancing, they have salsa and kizomba nights as well!

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Maya
Crossroads Mall, Cebu City
5:00PM - 1:00AM
Budget: PhP1,000 up/head


8 | Ilaputi

where to eat in cebu
Ilaputi is one of the most popular restaurants and hangout spots in Cebu—and when I was able to try it a few months back, I had no trouble understanding why. The gastropub serves some of the tastiest Asian-American dishes in Cebu. From Korean rice bowls and Stroganov served with rice to sandwiches and appetizers, Ilaputi has something filling for every craving. At night, the restaurant gets packed with yuppies who just got off work eager to sample their cocktails and craft beers. Definitely, this successful diner (it was once just a small eatery with two dishes on the menu) is a must-visit when in Cebu.

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Ilaputi
Check locations here.
Budget: PhP350up/head


9 | Rico's Lechon

where to eat in cebu
Ever since my sister took home and entire lechon de leche from Rico's Lechon, this restaurant has been my favorite among the popular lechon shops from Cebu. Their Carcar style lechon is incredibly good, with flavors that seep through the deepest fibers of the meat. And don't even get me started on the skin! However, if you want to taste the best of Rico's, get the spicy variant which just fuels the appetite continuously, and before you know it you have consumed more pork meat, fat, and skin than you intended! Get some Baked Scallops as well, or some pako (seaweed) salad.

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Rico's Lechon
Check locations here.
Budget: PhP250-300/head


10 | House of Lechon

where to eat in cebu
If you seek a taste of local cuisine, head over to House of Lechon in Kamputhaw for your ultimate fix. Going to Cebu without trying lechon (roast pig) is a mortal sin, and at House of Lechon you can experience it Carcar style. Bathed in its own drippings, the lechon is perfect with vinegar, soy sauce, and chilies. The skin is crispy, the meat juicy and tender. Aside from lechon, the restaurant serves delicious seafood, grilled dishes, and bar chow perfect with ice cold beers. The desserts are not to be missed as well. Enjoy your feast within the restaurant’s busy yet beautiful, resort-style interiors.


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House of Lechon
Check locations here.
Budget: PhP250-300/head


11 | Zubuchon

where to eat in cebu
Anthony Bourdain didn’t rave about Zubuchon for nothing. Known for its unusual way of cooking lechon, the restaurant is a top choice of locals and travelers visiting Cebu. If you seek a lechon that doesn’t require any sauces, this is the one. The meat has hints of herbs and spices ever-so-gently tickling the taste buds. The skin? Remarkable. Of course some vinegar or soy sauce would elevate the flavors even more (and elicit more spoonfuls of rice), but you can eat it as is. Among all Cebu lechon brands I’ve tried, Zubuchon’s tastes the cleanest, if you know what I mean. Order a kilo or two to take home (they have a stall in the airport), and throw in a bag of chicharon as well! Tip: they make a great pancit as well!

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Zubuchon
Check locations here.
Budget: PhP400 up/head


12 | CnT Lechon

where to eat in cebu
Another popular option in Cebu (and especially among locals), CnT is a must-try when you go food-tripping around the city—even just for comparison’s sake. The meat is well-spiced (read: salty), very tender, and flavorful, while the skin is lastingly crispy. There’s simply nothing like it in Manila. Watching the butchers chop up your lechon while waiting in line is part of the experience, and even if you wait for about an hour to be served, you will feel that it’s worth it once you get your roast pig. Arm yourself with heaps of patience and an ever bigger appetite.

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CnT Lechon
Check locations here.
Budget: PhP250 up/head


13 | Asmara Urban Resort and Lifestyle Village

The first of its kind in CebuAsmara Urban Resort is a resort, a day club, a cocktail bar, a sports center, and an Italian restaurant all in one. Hidden away in Banilad, it takes you away from the bustle—and traffic!—of Cebu City and plunges into a sanctuary right in the middle of the metropolis. Here, you can enjoy healthy food, delicious pizzas, and amazing cocktails, and alternate eating and drinking with playing tennis and swimming. I love how the bartenders can make a drink for you that’s off the menu—just let them know of the flavor profiles you love and your spirit of choice, and they are sure to whip up something really good.

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Asmara Urban Resort and Lifestyle Village
Paseo Saturnino, Banilad, Cebu City
+63917.708.1079
7:00AM - 12:00AM
Budget: PhP1,000 up/head


14 | Tongara Ramen

where to eat in cebu
With the abundance of ramen restaurants in Manila, I never planned to eat Japanese noodles in Cebu. However, after my friend Chubby Pero Happy's incessant raving about this little ramen shop in Escario, I got really curious and decided to try it before I left the city. I'm happy to report that his claims were legit—as are Tongara's offerings. Get their Tongara Signature Ramen made of pork bone (tonkotsu) and chicken bone (torigara) broth, thick (just the way I like it) and with a hint of acidity. A bowl already comes with tamago and chashu. Order some chicken karaage and gyoza on the side as well.

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Tongara Ramen
Escario Central, N. Escario Street, Cebu City
Budget: PhP400 up/head


15 | Tides at Shangri-La Mactan

where to eat in cebu
In search of a good hotel buffet in Cebu? There's no way to go but in Mactan—specifically, at Tides in Shangri-La Mactan. Their 6 buffet concepts showcase flavors from around the world, including fresh sushi and sashimi; a noodle station composed of both Eastern and Western cuisines; an Indian station; a Korean station (their fried chicken is so good!); a soup station, where you can customize your bowls; a grill station (meat and seafood); and an extensive dessert section. Kids have their own cute station as well! Tip to The Table members: you can gain points by dining here.

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Restaurant Tides
Garden Level, Main Wing, Shangri-La Mactan, Mactan, Cebu
Budget: PhP2,000 up/head


16 | My Greek Taverna

For some reason, the reviews for this restaurant at Trip Advisor aren’t spectacular, but I enjoyed everything I tried when I went here last April (I visited the Paseo Saturnino branch). The Cilantro Jalapeno Hummus was delicious and so was the accompanying pita. If you’re looking for something filling and satisfying, get the Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl and order a side of Greek Salad—both are in great portions at such affordable prices. I’m not sure if the food is authentic but I honestly couldn’t care less: (1) I’ve never been to Greece; (2) compared to other Greek restaurants that serve bland food, the offerings at My Greek Taverna burst with flavor.

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My Greek Taverna
8WV6+H8J, Paseo Saturnino, Cebu City, Cebu
Budget: around PhP500/head


17 | The Suite Room

where to eat in cebu
Tucked away in the quiet street of Lim Tian Teng, The Suite Room is an unassuming boutique restaurant awaiting discovery. Only 3 years old, this offshoot of Casa Verde aims to continue the restaurant chain’s 14-year legacy with a different concept. With its hotel-style interiors, indulge in a classy yet affordable meal of luscious appetizers, generous entrees, and sinful desserts. Unlike Casa Verde which mainly attracts younger crowds, The Suite Room is perfect for casual meetings, romantic dates, or family celebrations.


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The Suite Room by Casa Verde
Ramos Branch: 69 Lim Tian Teng Street, Ramos, Cebu City (right beside Casa Verde)
Ayala Branch: 4th Level, Ayala Center Cebu, Cebu Business Park, Archbishop Reyes Ave., Cebu City
Budget: around PhP500/head


18 | Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant

where to eat in cebu
Veer away from the city crowd and drive to Cordova in Mactan to Lantaw Floating Restaurant. Located in the outskirts and built atop the water, this dining destination in Cebu serves delicious seafood, grilled dishes, and desserts. You can’t go wrong with its relaxing vibe: cogon-and-bamboo huts, wooden decks, bridges as pathways. It is homey and cozy, instantly perking up the appetite. Despite the fact that it is a little out of the way, its food (get the Baked Scallops, Grilled Tuna Belly, and Utan Bisaya) and ambience will surely be worth the two-hour return trip.


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Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant
Day-As, Cordova, Mactan, Cebu
Other branches: click here
Budget: PhP300 up


19 | Ibiza Beach Club

where to eat in cebu
Movenpick Cebu houses what is perhaps the most relaxing beachside bar I've ever been to: Ibiza Beach Club, a Mediterranean-inspired bar and restaurant that showcases a stunning vibe and a great selection of food and libations. Come before sunset and enjoy signature cocktails at half the price; the Ibiza Mojito is so good (and potent), I didn't bother knowing what's in it. Hungry? Try their famous Balearic 15-course grill, from which you can choose your favorite meats and seafood like filet mignon, rib-eye, baby back ribs and lobsters.

~*~
Ibiza Beach Club
Punta Engaño, Mactan Island, Cebu
Budget: PhP1,000 up/head


20 | Linear Coffee Roasters

where to eat in cebu

If you are serious about your coffee, well then the guys at Linear Coffee can probably match that passion for brews of yours. Aiming to bring specialty coffee to the forefront and to elevate coffee enjoyment in Cebu, Linear is where you should go if you’re looking for a great cup (or cups) of joe. I love how the baristas interact with guests sitting on the bar, asking them their preferences, and occasionally offering them tiny samples to taste. Try their espressos with milk (I recommend the cortado, my go-to drink) or their signature Cold White, which is silky and refreshing.

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Linear Coffee Roasters
Big Hotel, Tipolo, Mandaue City, Cebu
9:00AM - 6:00PM
Budget: PhP200 up/head


21 | Abaca Baking Company

where to eat in cebu

Abaca Baking Company is an institution in Cebu when it comes to breads and pastries. Everything they serve is made fresh daily, from the delicious croissants and muffins to the pretzels and cakes. With 10 branches in Cebu, a craving for delicate bites paired with fine coffees and teas is easily answerable. I especially love their classic chocolate chip and oatmeal cookies, as well as their refreshing, caffeine-free Red Orange tea. The branch at the newly-opened Citadines Apart’Hotel at the Baseline has a full-service restaurant as well as a separate café.

~*~
Abaca Baking Company
Check locations here.
Budget: PhP200 up/head


22 | La Vie Parisienne

where to eat in cebu

You've seen it all on Instagram: pictures of friends clinking wine glasses, a platter of cheese between them, and a pink-purplish tree in the background. It's La Vie Parisienne, one of the favorite hangout spots of both locals and tourists in Cebu City. The vibe is elegant yet casual and relaxed, the concept straightforward: guests choose their bottle(s) of choice from the cellar or shop, grab some cheese or cold cuts if they wish, pay at the counter, and take their wines and bites to their table. They have great selections not just of wines but also of liquors and craft beers. Chill night? La Vie it is.

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La Vie Parisienne
371 Gorordo Ave, Cebu City
Budget: PhP600 up/head


23 | Tablea Chocolate Café

where to eat in cebu

If you love tablea, you need to go to the Cebu establishment that popularized it among tourists by incorporating the chocolate into majority of its menu offerings. Tablea Chocolate Café will surely pacify any dessert lover—from muffins, brownies, tarts to cakes and all its coffee-based drinks, TCC aims to please those with a sweet tooth. Souvenirs are also sold, perfect as pasalubong when you go back to your respective hometowns.

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Tablea Chocolate Cafe
Ground Floor, JY Square Discovery Mall, Lahug, Cebu City
7:00AM - 9:30PM
Budget: PhP200 up/head


24 | Vibe’s Gourmet

Every time I visit a new place, I take it upon myself to have this quest of finding a restaurant that is not too popular with tourists but which serves awesome, affordable food. I found this in the presence of Vibe’s, a carinderia found at the back of Cebu Doctor’s Hospital. Vibe’s serves home-cooked meals that are no-fuss, unpretentious and incredibly delicious! I especially loved the herbed chicken and Cajun chicken, both served with a sauce which seemed to me like a mixture of Mang Tomas, soy sauce, and ground pepper (I had multiple refills LOL). Best of all, most items from their extensive menu are around PhP100!

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Vibe's Gourmet
2 Gov. M. Roa St, Cebu City
Budget: PhP200 up/head


25 | Sugbo Mercado

where to eat in cebu
If you're a fan or Banchetto, Mercato, and the like, head over to Sugbo Mercado—which is Cebu City's version of the food park. From barbecue and sushi to dim sum and Tausug food, the food park's (seemingly endless) array of options is sure to satiate your craving. I loved the Hog and Bull Smokehouse which serves amazing beef brisket, very similar to what I had tasted in Texas. Look for the Tausug food stall as well (I forgot the name)—they serve incredibly delicious piyanggang, which is chicken cooked in burnt coconut paste.

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Sugbo Mercado
Garden Bloc, Inez Villa St, Apas, Cebu City
Budget: PhP300 up/head


26 | Larsian sa Fuente

where to eat in cebu
You can’t say you have eaten around Cebu and not tried Larsian sa Fuente. While others might find it too “ghetto”, dining in this banchetto-style place completes the Cebu experience. Whether you’re craving for a barbecue dinnerhungry for some grilled seafood, or looking for a spot to nurse your hangover after a night of partying in Cebu, Larsian is the place to be. Pick one of the shops in this barbecue haven to have your chosen items cooked. Your options are not only limited to pork, chicken, and seafood meats but you will also find siomai, kikiam, fishballs, soups, and of course innards, in some stores. Pair your meal with some puso rice and eat using plastic hand wraps or with bare hands! Perfect for an affordable meal and a unique Cebu experience.

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Larsian
Fuente Osmena, Cebu City (near the Chong Hua Hospital)
Budget: PhP200 up/head


Which of these places have you tried? Can you add more to the list?



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16 comments :

  1. I love your blog and this post! I'm proud of the Cebuano who took you around to the right places. And thanks for visiting my blog, too! :D


    Babe for Food - your BFF in Cebu dining! :)

    ReplyDelete
  2. Thanks Justinne! I'm looking forward to coming back this September. :)

    ReplyDelete

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