Drossgold Pension House

Since 2023, this unpretentious restaurant has been winning fans with Filipino, family-style fare crafted with clear devotion. Wooden tables and photo-lined walls of classic dishes make for a casual feel. Try the signature stewed beef noodle soup, pares batchoy, the refreshingly tangy sinigang na hipon (tamarind broth with prawns), or seared stuffed bangus, a delicate milkfish dish. Staff are friendly, and an illustrated menu makes sharing effortless.

At this stylish spot led by a globe-trotting British chef, gourmet European cuisine meets tropical-island warmth. The menu focuses on pork – confit pork belly is a signature dish – and the small plates are conducive to sharing. European recipes are reworked with modern techniques for extra finesse. The wood-and-brick interior has cosy pub charm, from the terrace to the kitchen counter and the sleek, sociable bar.

Opened as a jewellery export business in 1999, Abaseria evolved into a café and is now a welcoming restaurant. A nostalgic atmosphere reigns in the space, which is decorated with local crafts and souvenirs – you feel like you're at a distant relative's. Home-cooked dishes such as sinigang pasayan, fish with tofu in black bean sauce, and Humba stew are made for sharing. Popular desserts include choco durian and mango float, and the coffee is a highlight.

Designed by a Filipino architect, this stylish destination pairs grey tones with turquoise accents and club beats for a modern, casual feel. CUR8, is a nod to the chef behind the concept – where Asian cuisine is reimagined with bold style. Featuring clear categories, from Best Seller to Chef's Recommendation and Healthy Option, the menu is approachable. The lunch set, showcasing various dishes as small portions, is a fantastic deal.

Perched high above Cebu amid lush jungle, this open-sided terrace restaurant commands views as far as the sea. With stone floors, faux-rattan chairs and warm lighting, the setting feels secluded yet welcoming. A nearby courtyard café adds charm. The well-drilled team serves refined Filipino fare with regional soul. Shrimp kinilaw with kimchi, chicken skin nachos and the signature Lasa crispy pata are vibrant updates on tradition – all well worth trying.

This Spanish chef presents Spanish cuisine rooted in tradition and enriched by his understanding of Philippine ingredients and culinary culture. This thoughtful interplay of influences results in a refined yet diverse menu that honours Spain's gastronomical heritage. Attentive service ensures a warm and leisurely dining experience – ideal for gatherings with family or friends in a stylish and inviting space.

Opened in mid-2024, this easy-to-miss gem on the second floor of an old building blends tropical charm with rustic bamboo decor, stone-accented walls and a laid-back, vacation-like vibe. The Korean owner and young, local kitchen team deliver a menu that mixes Filipino and Thai flavours with creative flair. The highlight is sisig with egg – a flavoursome stir-fry of assorted pork offal and aromatic spices. Cool down with a fresh fruit shake on sunny afternoons.