Surrounded by flora and fauna, this little gem of a café in the midst of Mactan’s many real estate developments is an easy stopover if you are staying on the island, or waiting for a flight in and out of the international airport.

TRANSLATED TO MEAN “yours” in Cebuano, Nimo is a charming café nestled within the Cebu Plant Company, a garden center in Mactan where shopping for potted plants, herbs, cacti and succulents is made easy. But don’t let all this greenery, the 2 white chickens and a Jack Russell that freely wander around the place distract you. This café takes brewing seriously with its state-of-the-art Italian espresso machine and grinders, special Bukidnon coffee bean blends, and a selection of French pastries. The Basque cheesecake and the flaky Kouign Amann alone are well worth the trip. Other favorites to try are the brick oven-baked pizzas, creamy truffle pasta and Angus beef burgers. Plans to expand the menu will include a full breakfast, more lunch and dinner options, a lively band and beer garden.The shared life experiences of owners Yasmine and Harry Morris, together with Oliver Moeller, have put the soul into Cebu Plant Company, the half-hectare compound where the café is located. Harry is a marine biologist and national athlete while Yasmine and Oliver are both lawyers. All having travelled extensively, they have designed the property with nature in mind, holding scheduled fun outdoor activities like painting lessons and beekeeping seminars which are open to the public.