Around the World With My Tummy

Tireless Trotter by BUTCH CARUNGAY

Cebu’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, blending traditional Filipino dishes with international influences. From bustling street food markets to fine dining establishments, there is something to satisfy every palate. Join us as we embark on a gastronomic journey worldwide while our feet are firmly planted on this rock we call Cebu.

ASIAN FLAVORS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

While exploring our island, you’ll be transported to various corners of Asia through its diverse culinary offering. Head to the new Nonki Izakaya on A.S. Fortuna for a taste of Japan. This latest bastion of the fast-expanding Japanese chain of fine restaurants is undoubtedly more contemporary than its older sibling and features an updated menu and bar. Savor the rich flavors of Malaysia and Thailand at Oriental Spice Gourmet in Mactan, where you can enjoy dishes like Pad Thai, Beef Rendang, and Char Kway Teow. Don’t forget that they also make Hainanese Chicken Rice every Wednesday and are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Fans of Indonesian fare should check out Cribs on North Escario, where they serve the best Chicken Satay, Mee Goreng, and Sambal Shrimp. Those in the mood for affordable but delectable Chinese food should check out EZ Eats on Ramos Street, which now boasts an expanded menu showcasing even more Cantonese specialties. Korean restaurants are practically on every corner of this town, but we’ve been frequenting Seoul Black and Chicken and Beer in Streetscapes for their no-fuss Kimchi fests.

MIDDLE EASTERN AND SOUTH ASIAN AROMAS

Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines are renowned for their skillful use of aromatic spices, creating a tapestry of flavors that is hard to resist. While not many, a few such restaurants and take-out places serve solid and tasty dishes. Anyone looking for a menu from the Indian Subcontinent should head out to Banilad/Talamban, where several restaurants serve the sizable Indian student population who study in the area. The best of the lot is Cherry’s The Spice, which has also opened a new outlet at the Cebu Yacht Club in Mactan. Persian Kitchen, also in Banilad, serves some of the best hummus and babaganoush in town and offers various authentic Iranian plates on their menu. Lovers of Levantine cuisine should check out Papa V on Morales Street for their Lebanese Meat Stuffed Pitas and Hussam at Il Corso for some of the best char-grilled lambs on the island, finished off with some Syrian sweets.

EUROPEAN INDULGENCES

If you’re yearning for European flavors, fret not! Cebu’s culinary scene has you covered. Trattoria da Gianni in Crossroads, Giuseppe’s on Maria Luisa Road, and Tavolata on A.S. Fortuna are the holy trifecta of Italian cuisine in town and serve up some mouth-watering pizzas, pasta, and mains. Café des Amis in Plaza Nouvelle makes the best croissants this side of Paris in addition to classic French bistro grub. Have some modern British cuisine and make your way to The Pig and Palm in Cebu Business Park for their Beef Wellington, while those in the mood for Alpine cooking should head out to Luzern Steakhouse on St. Moritz Road. Those craving paella better proceed to El Chiringuito at the Gallery in Mabolo, where they also serve Iberian classics such as gambas, callos, and croquetas. Pukot Kitchen has also opened a new outlet at Vibo Place in Escario, serving crowd favorites like Herbed Pork Chops, St Helen’s Rib Eye Steak, Pan Seared Salmon in Caper Sauce, and arguably the best Portuguese tarts in town.

A TASTE OF THE AMERICAS

From the United States to the Latino countries, Cebu’s food landscape is dotted with eateries that pay homage to the flavors of the Americas. Sink your teeth into a wide array of burgers, poppers, and loaded fries at Better Burger on Salinas Drive. Taste Mexico’s fiery spices and vibrant colors at Maya in Crossroads and Pueblo in BTC, where they have fajitas, enchiladas, and tacos galore. Those looking for Peruvian (with a dash of Japanese) should head out to Dip at the Sheraton Resort in Mactan, where they have a wide array of ceviches, bowls, and lomos for the discerning palate.

EMBRACING LOCAL DELICACIES

No culinary adventure in Cebu would be complete without exploring the local delicacies that reflect the island’s unique heritage, which takes us to Abli & Amigos on A. Morales Street in the old uptown district which is fast becoming Cebu’s answer to Poblacion in Makati. Helmed by a chef trained in Manila’s now-legendary (and one of the Top 50 Restos on the planet) Toyo Eatery, this new restaurant reimagines classic Cebuano fare with modern techniques, global influences, and elevated ingredients while retaining the essence and tastes of traditional dishes. The most successful manifestations were the Honey Glazed Ginabot, Fish Larang with Fried Tomato Paste, a Salted Egg Broth, and the 8-hour Slow Roasted Pork Belly. Paired with the dishes are fresh takes on local cocktails with the wittiest names that perfectly complement the deliciously savory dishes.

IN A NUTSHELL

​Embarking on a foodie adventure around the world in Cebu is an experience that will delight your taste buds and feed your wanderlust without necessarily draining your wallet. From Asian delights, Middle Eastern aromas, European indulgencies, American flavors, and fresh new takes on Cebuano cuisine, this vibrant island offers a culinary experience that can compete with much larger metropolises.