Tag Archives: cebu dining

Esquina Pasta Bar, Cebu

Posted on by
Reply

Lately laundry days with my sister have been one of my favorite bi-monthly chores (we’re disgusting, I know!) because laundry days are the times we both get to walk around the Mabolo area and discover new restaurants in Cebu.

For those who are wondering, I do my laundry at Rapid Rinse in Mabolo and if you didn’t already know, Mabolo is a haven when in comes to hole in the wall restaurants and such.

This week, we stumbled into a PASTA BAR which first of all, I never even knew existed (!!!) and boy did we have a blast!

I first heard of Esquina Pasta Bar on Instagram and was instantly drawn to their bright & catchy marketing material and well, long story short, I had to go. So last Wednesday, on laundry day, we ventured out to Esquina Pasta Bar at 39 C Pres. Laurel St. Villa Aurora, Kasambagan, Cebu City

Getting to the place was a little bit difficult for us because 1, we walked to the location & 2, we have no sense of direction and cannot comprehend maps. It took us a good 15 minutes to finally figure out where Esquina was but once you walk by it, you can’t miss it! (I was suggested to follow Waze to get there)

The pasta bar is outdoors but well ventilated and shaded for those who are iffy about the heat & humidity. Plus, the pretty exteriors makes you forget you’re even outdoors so there’s really nothing to worry about!

I was really interested in their menu as they not only had a nice selection of regular & premium pastas but they also offered what they call the Collossal Chicken, which is closely resemblant to Taiwan’s popular Hot Star chicken.

We were only able to order two of the items on their menu which was ok because it only made us want to go back sooner even more!

We were definitely impressed by the serving size and flavors in each of the dishes that we tasted and I also really appreciated how they altered my linguine shrimp scampi and made it non- spicy, as per my request.


Country Fried Steak – P 180.00


Linguine Shrimp Scampi –  Php 155

I am definitely going back to Esquina Pasta Bar in the near future and would suggest this pasta bar to my younger market who loves adventures and good food. I can’t wait til my next foodie adventure (hopefully laundry days can be a weekly thing) but until then, please do drop by Esquina Pasta Bar.

Esquina Pasta Bar is open every Tuesday – Sunday from 4:00 pm – 12 mn

SEE YOU THERE!

xx,
Issa Gandionco

Healthy Meal Options at Tazza Cafe

Posted on by
Reply

The holidays may be over but there are still reasons to celebrate! If you’re on a mission to fulfill your New Years’ resolutions of eating healthy and watching what you eat, Tazza Cafe is definitely one place that should be on your list.

What I find particularly great about Cafe Tazza is that they do not only cater to those health conscious people but to the everyday diner making dining out with friends a lot easier as they cater to any and every meal preference.

Whether you’re out for a good cuppa Joe, desserts or food- Cafe Tazza is the perfect one stop shop for families, friends or people looking cozy place to meet.



Classic Fish Cake (Php 290)


Torched Salmon and Quinoa Salad (Php 360)


Smoked Salmon salad


Hot chocolate milk


Cold brew coffee

I definitely had a pleasant time during my visit there and would highly recommend anyone reading this blog to give them a visit! They are located at Banilad Town Center and in Wilson st., Lahug.

For reservations & inquiries, contact them on Facebook or give them a call at (032) 263 5321

xx,
Issa P.

I Won Dimsum Break’s 1st Cebuano Flatlay Challenge!

Posted on by
Reply

Amazing things happen when you least expect it, like being the first ever person to win The Great Cebuano Flatlay Challenge despite possibly being the worst person to take flatlay photos on the face of the earth.

It was a fun afternoon filled with food & creativity and I got to play with my food and win some prizes which was definitely the sweet and sour sauce on top of my spring rolls!

Here were my winning shots:

ROUND 1: Greens & spices

ROUND 2: Appetizers

ROUND 3: Main Course (I used my cover up for my background!)

ROUND 5: Dessert

Please do not ask my for flatlay tips because I won on sheer dumb luck!

I hope this post makes you as hungry as it made me,
Issa P.

Steak- All- You Can @ Bai Hotel For P999.00

Posted on by
2

Bai is one of Cebu’s newest luxe hotels that offers guests with the perfect view of the city and the harbor while also providing them with a visual adventure with their beautiful industrial and minimalist interiors. Although they are very new in the industry, their offerings and services seem to be quite polished and seasoned gearing them, as early as now, to be one of Cebu’s top hotels.

Being strategically located close to malls and establishments, Bai has raised the bar by offering check in guests, walk ins and anyone looking for a gastronomical treat great food selections with over 8 dining options to choose from. In this post, we explore Marble + Grain, their swanky steakhouse known for their custom-aged USDA prime beef and impressive wine offerings.

Starting January 16- 31, at P999.00+++, guests can eat to their hearts content every lunch time to mouth watering slices of certified Angus beef prepared and cooked to your liking by Marble + Grain’s very own resident British- Filipino Chef, Jaimes Van Haght. Aside from that, you can also help yourself to a variety of side dishes such as: mashed potatoes (a personal favorite!), corn, baked macaroni, salads and more! And if that’s not enough to catch your attention, you can always appease your appetite by pairing your meat with your choice of wine from their extensive collection.

1″ cut beef steak cooked medium rare. Just how I like it

Marble + Grain Steakhouse is located at the ground floor or Bai Hotel Cebu, Ouano Avenue cor. Seno Boulevard North Reclamation Area, Mandaue City Cebu, Philippines

For reservations, call +6332 342 8888 or +6332 355 8888.

 Cuisine | Premium 21 days dry-aged Steak
Time of Operation |
Lunch Open 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Dinner Open 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Closed on Mondays
Ambience | Fine Dining
Dress Code | Smart Casual (with collar for men)
Location | Ground Floor
Capacity | 48

See you there!

Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino Celebrates Buwan Ng Wika w/ Celebrity Chef Couple + August Promotions

Posted on by
Reply

In line with our Buwan Ng Wika, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino brings the countries culinary power couple, Chef Lau and Chef Jac Laudico, to Cebu to share with diners their own twist and take on all our classic Pinoy favorites.

For P898.00/ person, get to experience Chef Lau and Chef Jac’s interesting takes on Filipino food such as their adobong krispy kang kong, kinilaw with a hint of their specially made sauce and many more! Diners are also invited to enjoy Waterfront’s buffet offerings from the Uno Restaurant

 

   

 

Aside from having celebrity chef’s over, Waterfront also has a couple of offerings that you, your friends and family are sure to enjoy:

  1. AUGUST BIRTHDAY CELEBRANTS

    If you’re celebrating your birthday this month, you’re in luck! As a special treat to birthday celebrants for the month of August, celebrants get to dine for free when and will receive their very own birthday cake when they come with four other guests. Just make sure to bring 2 valid ID’s.
  2. 10 + 5 PROMO
    Come in a big group to Waterfront’s Cafe Uno and 5 diners out of a group of 15 get to eat for free!

For more updates and promotions, follow Waterfront of Facebook

For reservations: (032) 232-6888 ext. 8605 / 1-800-10-9376688
or visit their official website

Thanks for the cooking tips, Chefs!

Issa P.

 

Radisson Blu Offers Japanese Cuisine at SushiSake

Posted on by
2

Radisson Blu has always been Cebu’s premiere spot when it comes to exceptional dining, facilities and top of the line treatment. Urban Table and Feria, which are Radisson Blu’s headlining restaurants both offer delectable international cuisine with a great view to pair.

In addition to this, Radisson Blu is raising the bar yet again by expanding their food selections through their newest restaurant, Sushi Sake which is poshly situated at the lobby-side which offers a great view of the hotel front and allows them access to their lounge area. Although it is located among open spaces, this 21 seater area offers guests an intimate environment perfect for those who enjoy having a small space of their own.

With a variety of Japanese favorites to choose from (scroll down for menu), the highlight of Sushi Sake would definitely have to be their choices of maki which were carefully curated by Sushi Sake’s head chef, Chef Jefferson “Jeff” Yalung. During my visit there, I was able to sample 6 of best offerings which were the Dynamite Sushi Roll, the Surf & Turf Roll, the Dragon Roll, the Spicy Salmon Roll, The Spicy Crab Roll and the Special California Roll.

Each handmade roll was a burst of individual and distinct flavors making each and every pop an experience of its own. You could tell just by the looks of it that each ingredient used was of top quality and preparation which can always be expected from Radisson Blu hotels.

Chef Jefferson “Jeff” Yalung


Mochi Ice Cream with Fresh Mango


Seasame Seed Panna Cotta and Coconut Ice Cream


Yuzu Tart with Sake Meringue and Green Tea Ice Cream

3/ 12 of the premium sake’s offered at Sushi Sake

SUSHI SAKE MENU

Sushi Sake opens at 6:00 pm onwards. For reservations, you may contact 032 4029900
To find out more about Radisson Blu, follow them on Facebook & Instagram.
Book your next vacation by clicking on their website.

Arigatōgozaimashita,
Issa-san

Breakfast Selections at Circa 1900’s, Circa Dos

Posted on by
1

I’m not a huge fan of grand breakfasts for the main reason that I have the most unfortunate allergy on the face of the earth- I’m allergic to eggs which immediately makes the most important meal of the day a whole lot less eventful. Although I may not be a fan of waking up early and eating something that could potentially harm me, I am however, a big fan of hanging out with my girlfriends especially if it’s with an amazing view!

Circa 1900’s more millennial and up beat counterpart, Casa Dos (located in the same vicinity), is complete with Colonial architecture and interior, a pool and garden view, a wine and tapas lounge and now an interesting breakfast menu on top of their already existing food selections making them the top choice for anyone who’s looking for a good place to start the day.

Circa Dos’ breakfast menu may seem short but it is certainly not limited. They’ve created a good mixture of food meant to help you be fit, allow you to indulge, explore the intriguing tastes of organic plates or perhaps enjoy a classic pinoy breakfast and even eat your heart out to a hungry breakfast platter- which is how Circa Dos’ has categorized their selection. They also have a few interesting side dishes such as crocodile tocino & ostrich tapa!


ORGANIC. 2 fresh organic eggs served with thick cut wholemeal toast- P185.00


FIT. Sliced fresh tropical fruit with honey & strawberry citrus dip – P 195.00


PINOY. Fried eggs and garlic rice with choice of 2 items, homemade beef tenderloin tapa, longaniza, homemade chicken tocino or danggit – P 270.00


HUNGRY. Eggs any style with hash browns, beef sausage, bacon, saute garlic mushrooms, roast tomato & toast- P375.00

INDULGE. English muffin with salmon garvlax & cream scrambled eggs – P 315.00


SIDES. Crocodile tocino – P 295.00

SIDES. Ostrich Tapa – P 295.00


Make sure to go with friends and to make as many memories as possible <3

Check out my friends: Ron, Keisee, Jean & Marianna

Find out more about them on Facebook and on their official website!

Til the next,

Issa P.

Kayu Kitchen + Bar, Lahug, Cebu

Posted on by
3

Kayu Kitchen + Bar seemed intimidating to me at first. I had seen and heard about them on social media (where else?), I had asked numerous friends who’ve been there about it yet, I had never actually made an effort to go there. If memory serves me right, my friends described the place as interesting, in the higher price range and worth trying- looking back at it now, I had reserved my visit to Kayu for a special occasion perhaps with family or a loved one. Luckily for me, I got a special invite before those two things actually happen!

I’m not a food blogger, which is why I will keep my opinion to a minimum, mostly because I don’t know much about the process that went behind the creation of these dishes. I mean, just take a look at those dishes, it takes a professional or someone who really knows their stuff to give this place a fair review and that is obviously not me so…
Don’t be disappointed in me, guys, I don’t even think I’ve ever had most of these dishes before nor is it something I would imagine myself craving for on any random day… all I know is that they look pretty and that’s already a +1 in my book! lol.

But if you really wanted my opinion, I would generally describe Kayu as a date place or somewhere you would want to go to celebrate a special occasion perhaps a birthday, a family gathering, an anniversary or for a fancy dinner (if that’s what you like to do…) . It’s roomy, it has a great view and the entire place just oozes of sophistication! The scenery is amazing, it’s very romantic and truthfully, the food is another experience itself.

So less chatter, more photos… Here are Kayu’s Kitchen + Bar’s dishes:

APPETIZERS

Beetroot salad/ P270.00
goat’s milk ricotta, tzatziki, guava gel, orange garam masala vinaigrette


Tomato Sriracha Soup
Spiced Bleack Beans, Chorizo [included in lunch set]


Scallion Appetizer/ P380.00
USDA ribeye, house pickled slaw,  chili bean aiolo, honey glazed peanuts


“Fish Taco”/ P 320
crispy fish skin, spicy glazed tuna, pear, sesame


Belly Chips/ P190
Pork Belly, Nuoc Cham

MAIN COURSE


Glazed Salmon/ P590
Sushi rice cake, bokchoy, teriyaki


Duck Confit/ P 490
soy bean cassoulet, strawberry glazed cabbage, cilantro


Braised Shortrib/ P950
cornbread puree, braised shallot, beech mushroom, demi glaze


Poached Red Snapper/ P450
Coconut rice, banana puree, gochujang foam


Charred Octopus/ P450
Squash risotto, grilled grapefruit, romesco


Pork Pork Pork/ P650
grilled apple puree, sauce chasseur, braised cabbage, shiitake risotto

DESSERT


“Potted” Chocolate Tiramisu/ P240
sabayon, crunchy hazelnut meringue, coffee sponge, chocolate sand, strawberry gelee, vanilla sauce


Sizzling Caramel & Banana plate

    Here’s the full menu:

Location:
Sanson Road Rockwell Cebu, Cebu City
Telephone:
(032) 406 3095

Operating hours:

Tuesday – Sunday
LUNCH: 11:30am – 2:30pm
DINNER: 5:30pm – 10:00pm

TAPAS BAR
Friday – Saturday
10:00pm – 12:00mn

Website:
http://kayu.ph/

XX,

Issa P.

Sushi Boy Introduces New Japanese- Filipino Inspired Items!

Posted on by
1

There’s a common misconception that good Japanese food usually hurts ones pocket but at Sushi Boy, anyone can enjoy great tasting food that is budget-friendly without sacrificing quality or taste.

Their menu includes a variety of maki, sushi, rice bowls, sashimi and yakimono among many others with their bestselling items being: gyudon, ramen-tantan, gyoza, and California maki using only high-quality ingredients for each and every masterpiece.

This contemporary sushi bar combines everything we love about Japanese oriental food and Western industrial interiors to give us not only a gastronomical experience but a  visually pleasing experience at the same time. With their distinct container van housing, Sushi Boy is a 101-square-meter restaurant that can accommodate over a hundred diners making it a perfect place for dates, small intimate gatherings and even parties!

Sushi Bar takes pride in merging Japanese and Filipino tastes which makes them stand out among the rest. Their takes on Chicken Karaage, Crispy Tuna Sisig and Tuna Salpicao are modern tasting and are a refreshing twist to the more traditional flavors, making great additions to their existing menu.

Sushi Boy is currently located at Ouano Avenue, NRA , Subangdaku, Cebu City, Philippines but will soon but opening their second branch at the Garden Bloc of Cebu IT Park!

Follow Sushi Boy on Facebook for menu updates & promotions!

Make sure to tag them on Instagram!

xx,

Issa P.

No MiSTEAKS @ St. Moritz, Cebu

Posted on by
2

dscf5344

I thank the Instagram and Facebook Gods yet again for leading me to a humble hotel/ restaurant that is quietly tucked away in the heart of my most loved city. If you’re a bit over 40 years old, St. Moritz might not be a secret to you as it is to us younger folks- apparently, it’s been around for a while.

Aged is definitely one of the words I would use to describe St. Moritz as it differs completely from the bustling, concrete walls and minimalist designs that oh-so-often fills our news feeds. Here, cold metal stools are wooden bar stools and linear furniture are cozy, comfortable floral fitted chairs. Sure, the interior may be a sight for sore eyes in some ways but it’s its quirkiness that grows on you plus their steaks are pretty damn good.

dscf5354

dscf5355

Mother- daughter dates are always things that I look forward to especially if my mom gets the bill when it’s somewhere new and fun. I had already heard of St. Moritz and had added it to my list of places to go to so when my mom suggested to bring me there, I could not say no. Come on, who wants to eat a steak alone? No one.

We ordered a 450 gram rib eye steak for P1,100.00, had it slices into two and some pasta on the side just in case. Truthfully, we hardly even touched our pasta nor do I remember what it was. The steak was more than enough and I still have dreams about it until today…

dscf5378

dscf5388

I usually prefer my steaks medium rare but after much contest from my mother who paid for lunch prefers her steaks grilled medium, I had no say in the matter. Either way, I fairly enjoyed it as the meat was juicy, soft and it melted in my mouth. In fact, I opted to skip the steak sauce and eat it as it is because it was pretty flavorful already and steak sauce would feel like an insult.

dscf5395

Oh hello, I forgot about you…

Now if you can’t afford a steak or if you’re just looking for a new place to dine, try out or hide at then here’s a their full menu for you to contemplate on but I would push for the steak, of course. I wouldn’t wait too long to go there though, word around the city spreads fast and it is the Christmas season, after all.

dscf5363

dscf5364

dscf5365

dscf5367

dscf5366

dscf5369

dscf5368

Lemme me know if you’ve had any of their other dishes and what you thought about them!

For more information check out their official website

For reservations/ questions, contact: +63 32 231 1148| +63 32 231 2408| +63 32 231 2477| +63 32 231 3436

Email: info@stmoritz-cebu.com

Operating hours: 7:00 am – 12:00 mn| Monday – Sunday

Live long & prosper,

Issa P.