If you’re traveling to Cebu soon, your taste buds are probably already hyped for the famed lechon! But you can’t possibly be thinking of eating roasted pig throughout your trip, are you? We all know how tempting it can be, yet excessive indulgence doesn’t exactly lead to happy stomachs. So once you’ve satisfied your cravings, you’ll probably be wondering where to eat next…and that’s why I wrote this article!
On a recent trip to Cebu, I faced the same dilemma. Lucky for us, locals guided us beyond lechon restaurants! While they might be hogging the limelight (pun intended), Cebu has so much more to offer–from casual to fine dining, and different cuisines–and here are some of them!
Black Smokehaus
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Black Smokehaus is a Texas-style barbecue restaurant in Cebu that serves a delectable treat: the enormous and savory Smoked Beef Dino Ribs! Cooked low and slow, this ensures a satisfying dining experience. Those who are coming as a group for the first time can also opt for their barbecue platter, which allows you to savor a wide array of meat! Check out Black Smokehaus on Instagram (@blacksmokehaus_) or visit their Cebu branch at Barangay Alang-Alang, Mandaue City.
Dubby’s Ultimate Burgers
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Dubby’s Ultimate Burgers is one of the locals’ and tourists’ go-to places in Cebu with its reputation for serving the “cheesiest” cheeseburgers in town! Plus, their 10-inch Birthday Burger is a showstopper! After your sightseeing adventures, you can quench your thirst with a range of options here, including milk tea, fruit beverages, and more, all thoughtfully offered to complement your chosen meal. Dubby’s is also located at Brgy. Alang-alang, Mandaue City, and you can also order for delivery online via FoodPanda or directly through their Instagram page (@dubbysultimateburgers).
Mott 32
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With branches in Las Vegas, Vancouver, Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangkok, Seoul, and Dubai, Mott 32 promises world-class Chinese cuisine! More than that, this must-visit restaurant in Cebu City features a sophisticated interior, located within the Nustar Resort and Casino. Most importantly, their menu is a culinary masterpiece curated by Michelin-starred chef Lee Man Sing! To make a reservation at Mott 32 Cebu, check them out on Instagram (@mott32cebu).
Soba Kamakura
Soba Kamakura is the place to be if you’re looking for an upscale Japanese restaurant in Cebu! Situated in the EC Building in Mandaue City, it is the only one in the region that serves handmade Soba using fresh buckwheat flour. But first, making a reservation a day before for lunch or dinner is a must! They also urge their guests to place their orders prior to their visit. For more information, check out their Facebook Page or website (soba-kamakura.com).
Maya
Transitioning to Mexican cuisine, the next destination on our culinary journey is Maya Mexican Restaurant. For those with a hankering for burritos, nachos, fajitas, enchiladas, and tacos, Maya is your haven. But the experience doesn’t stop there – you can even elevate your Mexican favorites here by pairing them with their extensive selection of 100% Agave tequilas! Whether it’s Taco Tuesdays, Salsa Nights, happy hour delights, or vibrant weekend parties, drop by Maya at Crossroads Mall.
Socarrat
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Thinking about having paellas, tapas, and vinos? Head on over to Socarrat! From its name, you could already tell that this Spanish restaurant’s specialty is its paellas, as the key to this beloved Spanish dish is the socarrat –the delectable crusty layer that forms at the pan’s bottom. Indulge in this experience at Bonifacio District, Cebu City! You may also check them out first on Instagram, @socarratcebu.
Kaya
Also in Bonifacio District, Korean barbeque lovers will be happy to know that Cebu City has Kaya! Although it seems to be unaffiliated with the Korean restaurant chain here in Manila, it still serves our Korean favorites, especially samgyupsal! Moreover, their special menu boasts Wagyu steaks waiting to be discovered. For additional details, check out their Facebook Page (/KAYAKoreanBBQCebu).
Luys Classic Tea House
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Bringing authentic Hong Kong cuisine to Cebuanos is Luys Classic Tea House! Located in Mabolo, Cebu City, their bestsellers include mooncake boxes, Jellyfish With Century Egg, and Roasted Chicken in Soy Sauce. However, if you’re still thinking about lechon at this point, you can try it Hong Kong-style through their roasted Suckling Pig! Discover their menu on Instagram (@luysteahouse).
Merci Cafe
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Say oui to this romantic coffee shop in Banilad, Cebu City! Merci Cafe offers classic French dessert and pastry faves like macarons and croissants in variations that would complement well with your cup of joe. They even serve exclusive menu items that you’ll definitely want to come back to! Their decadent spread is not just worth the carbs, but Instagram-worthy too. Just check out their feed (@cebu_merci)!
Tales and Feelings
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In search of a gastronomic experience in Cebu City? With its 18-seater hole-in-the-wall setup, Tales and Feelings offers an exceptional dining experience! Here, guests can savor internationally inspired flavors paired with an array of award-winning wines, adding a touch of sophistication to every meal and making it an ideal choice for those seeking exquisite culinary delights. More information like how to make a reservation is available on their Instagram page (@talesandfeelings).
Cava
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Love speakeasies? Here’s one in Cebu! Cava is a speakeasy bar in Cebu City that serves Cebuano-inspired craft cocktails like “Mutiara Moringa” (created with Agimat Gin, Vodka, Dalandan Liqueur, and Kaffir Liqueur). Their food menu also consists of modern contemporary cuisine, bringing an experience like nowhere else in the world! For an added touch of glamour reminiscent of the Gatsby era, make sure to visit on Thursdays and Fridays to enjoy live jazz music. You may also follow them on Instagram (@cava__ph) for upcoming events and promotions.
Lantaw Seafood and Grill
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Lantaw Seafood and Grill will give your taste buds a treat with their comforting traditional Filipino cuisine! As a well-known brand in Cebu, they’ve spread their goodness to various branches across the region, including Bohol and Dumaguete–all in scenic locations. So there’s really more to it than just satisfying your appetite, it’s also a feast for the eyes! Take a peek on Instagram (@lantawseafoodandgrill).
Do you have anything to add to this list? Tell us in the comments!
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