II. Ilaputi
www.facebook.com/ilaputi
Ilaputi in IT Park has become one of Cebu’s finests. Seeing it now, you wouldn’t believe that it started as a humble carenderia where students can enjoy delicious food on a budget. Now, 12 years after they first opened and with a completely new laid-back look, it’s still one of the best restaurants in Cebu. You’ll get to try these delicious Ilaputi dishes in Quezon City soon!
Must-try:
- The Stroganov: Tenderloin tips, mushrooms, thick sour cream sauce, and garlic fried rice–HEAVENLY!
This meal will make you thank the heavens for being alive. That’s what I did. 😉
- Bimbimbap: Beef tips, carrots, mushrooms, fresh greens, gochuchang fried rice and pan-fried egg.
- The Joy Juice (You’ll understand when you try it. Hehe.)
Jan Rodriguez started Ilaputi on his own and is now joined by his wife, Karen.
I. Hala Paella
www.facebook.com/halapaella
Hala Paella is such an underrated gem in Banilad Town Center in Cebu. Imagine one of the best-tasting paella offered at a very affordable price. Their solo size ranges from P108 to P138 only and can feed up to two people or 1 really hungry person.
Must-try:
- Paella Negra
- Paella Chorizo
- Churros – whatever you do, don’t ever forget to try Hala Paella’s churros. I even ordered takeaways that I brought back to Manila!
Anton Aldeguer, the 22-year old proprietor of Hala Paella, was inspired by his grandfather’s recipes and their Spanish roots.
Adding to these must-try places and must-meet people, you must also be a part of next year’s Sinulog Festival. Usually held every third Sunday of January, Sinulog has now become a month-long festivity to not only highlight a religious holiday, but also to showcase the cultural heritage of Cebuanos.
On January 16, 2016, Vinyl Entertainment, as spearheaded by Peter Delantar, will make entertainment history with Plus Six Three Festival, a music festival that highlights an eclectic mix of international and local artists along with curated dishes highlighting local ingredients. Party mood and good food–what more can you ask for?
Peter Delantar
Here’s a teaser for Plus63 Music Festival. For more info, visit www.plus63festival.com.
Will you be part of Sinulog 2016? If so, don’t forget to give my must-try list a shot and let us know how you enjoyed your stay in Cebu.
For more of my food reviews, along with some tips on how to stay healthy while traveling, visit www.healthjunkie.ph. Read more of my When In Manila articles here: www.wheninmanila.com/author/tonette-nicolas.
Photos in this post taken by Ena Terol: www.facebook.com/terolphoto and Instagram @terolphoto.
