Montebello Hotel, Cebu

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.

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.

Established in 2025, this relaxed, spacious spot has high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows and a semi-open kitchen that makes for a lively vibe. The concise menu focuses on Filipino dishes, especially Cebuano specialities. Don't miss the humba – pork belly braised until tender in a savoury-sweet soy sauce, perfect with rice. Portions are suitable for solo diners or small groups. The affordable lunch sets make this place popular among office workers.

Surrounded by offices and restaurants in a sleek, modern part of Cebu, this smart restaurant channels bodega charm with arched walls, patterned tiles, straw lampshades and warm wood finishes. Inside, leather benches and glossy tables create a lively yet comfortable vibe. Amiable service adds to the appeal, and the food is equally inviting. Don't miss the paella, croquetas, jamón ibérico or the robust fish dishes – all full of flavour and perfectly executed.

This hidden gem lies at the end of a nondescript corridor, past crumbling façades and corrugated iron roofs. A small garden precedes an immaculate dining room with white chairs, tiled floors and a view of the action in the kitchen. Jars of in-house fermented products line the walls. A warm, attentive service team lead diners on a truly singular experience comprising 15 courses packed with flavour, finesse and purpose and accompanied by a refined wine list.

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.

When cravings hit for local street food favourites, but you'd rather skip the heat, this bright, air-conditioned eatery is just the ticket. The star of the show is the signature beef pares, featuring tender brisket in a dark, sweet-spicy sauce, best enjoyed with steamed rice. A noodle soup version is also available. Open until midnight, it's a go-to place for late-night diners seeking bold, satisfying flavours in a cool, casual setting.