In Full Form: FORMO Lounge

directory CEBU’S #1 CITY GUIDE Vol. 4 No. 6 July 2013

INSIDE EATS IN CEBU Matias Barbecue, Sunburst, Harbour City and Sutukil TOURIST TRAIL Top destinations in the city you don’t want to miss out

In Full Form An institution in the Cebuano nightlife scene, FORMO Lounge boasts of a new look and menu while retaining the elements that made it such a local favorite in the first place.

FORMO LOUNGE

EDITOR’S NOTE A TOAST TO THE CLASSICS Cebu is definitely a city that’s changing— anyone can attest to it. From the fast-rising additions to its skyline to the influx of foreigners who have decided to make the city headquarters for their burgeoning online businesses, progress is definitely in the air. It trickles down to the rest of the community in the form of commercial establishments popping up all over the city.

Whether it’s the homegrown culinary talents opening up their own eatery or an internationally renowned restaurant chain finally arriving at our shores, there’s suddenly all these new places to explore—and we love it.

But of course, this is still Cebu, and sometimes we just want a taste of something familiar. If the continued success of local chains like Sunburst and Harbor City are any indication, then Cebuanos are prone to bouts of nostalgia, even when it comes to our taste buds. After all, we call them classics for a reason.

The same goes for FORMO, whose new and sophisticated interiors grace this month’s cover. Although the recent renovation and change in ownership might have given it a new look and menu options, it retains elements that remind us why the lounge has lasted all these years in the first place.

Enjoy!

SHARI QUIMBO Editor

directory

Vol.4 No.6 JULY 2013

IN FULL FORM: FORMO Lounge It’s impossible to have grown up in Cebu and not have heard of FORMO. After all, it’s been around for years, at a time when there weren’t a lot of bars and clubs to choose from. Over the years, it had continued to gain a steady following of loyal patrons, who flock to the site weekend after weekend for the upbeat mixes of retro music, amiable atmosphere, and the delectable potato chips—a mix of sweet, salty and spicy that was perfectly matched with an ice-cold glass of beer.

The year 2012 turned out to be a

big one for the lounge, when a facelift left it with new management and a fresh new look.

At the hands of interior designer Hannah Lim and architect Melvin Banzon, FORMO was transformed into a chic urban destination.

A brick wall runs the length of the room, a complement to the exposed wooden beams that anchor disco balls in varying sizes and lamps made from recycled bottles. The bar sits in front of a display wall, with shelves that feature capiz-shell backing, and an installation of the island of Cebu made up of wine bottles.

Publisher Jacinto E. Ramos Managing Editor Shari Quimbo Creative Director David Jones Cua Layout Artist Edwin Javier Jr. Photographer Jon Lim Advertising Amy Undaloc, Lorlaine Yutico and Paula Giron ZEE Publications Inc., G/F PDI Bldg. Gov. Cuenco Avenue Cor. J.Panis St., Banilad, Cebu City, Philippines Tel. No. 6332. 234 2636, 415 8597 www.zeelifestylecebu.com © All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher.

ON THE COVER The newly renovated bar at FORMO. COVER STORY Photography Jon Lim

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From left Blue Hawaiian, cosmopolitan, mojito, margarita and mai tai

“FORMO was designed to have a sleek and homey feel, and also feature things that are locally made in Cebu,” says Jacqueline Tan, one of the bar’s new owners. Jacqui, along with her partner Kaiser Tan, took on the opportunity to take over FORMO. “It’s been a passion of mine to become involved in creating a famous Cebu lounge, and I got the chance to do that when I met Kaiser.”

The menu also receives an update, with a selection of dishes that combine classic Continental cuisine with hearty and familiar

comfort food. Start off the meal with a serving of the Prosciutto, Apple and Grape salad, then whet your appetite even more with the Calamari Scampi plate—breaded pieces of squid rings and shrimp served with a delectable dipping sauce. The Norwegian Salmon is a delicious entrée, with the piece of fish cooked perfectly and topped with herbed crust and sauce.

Of course, there are some things that are too good to change. “We still have the best ice cold beers in Cebu,” says Jacqui when asked what they’ve retained through

Signature FORMO potato crisps

Calamari scampi

Prosciutto, apple and grape salad

Norwegian salmon

the renovations. “We also have the best chips—our Signature FORMO Potato Crisps.”

That’s definitely something people will be happy to find out.

“We have happy hour everyday, with our hard liquor bottles at 40% off,” Jacqui continues about their offerings. “We also have our Johnnie Walker Tuesday, when we feature JW Black at just PHP1,400.” Whatever the night, though, Cebu’s party-going set can be assured that FORMO is just as good as it always was, perhaps even a little bit more.

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DATELINE CEBU

Matias Barbecue Barbecue and puso: it’s a match made in heaven—or, in this case, Cebu. The famous local hanging rice wrapped in banana leaves goes perfectly with the sauce-slathered pieces of meat on a stick, best eaten with your hands and an ice-cold bottle of Coke. Matias has some of the best in town, with a sauce that has a tinge of sweetness.

The roadside open-air eatery may be rugged, to say the least, but the full parking lot and long lines by the grill shows how people just don’t care. After all, it’s part of the whole experience.

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A.S. Fortuna Street, Banilad, Mandaue City

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Sunburst It’s hard to go wrong with fried chicken, and Sunburst definitely does more than just getting it right. Their selection of chicken parts is fried golden, the skin packing just enough salty but spiced flavor, and the meat juicy. But although their name suggests that the fried chicken is the highlight of their menu, we say otherwise; a meal at Sunburst isn’t complete without a serving of the Chick ‘N Crackers. Pieces of chicken skin are deep-fried to a crisp, and are served with paperthin potato chips and vinegar for dipping. Eat it with your meal (like I sometimes do) or as something to munch on over a few beers—either way, it’s a guilty indulgence that won’t be given up anytime soon.

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EAT’S IN CEBU In the years I was living in Manila, there was a recurring craving for the dishes that have represented my hometown—which I would then satisfy by pigging out the next weekend I found myself in Cebu. These places may be simple and casual, but they serve up meals that you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. And the best part: you can get a full meal at an average of P150.

2F The Terraces, Ayala Center Cebu U/GF SM City Cebu A.S. Fortuna Street, Banilad, Mandaue City One Mango, Gen. Maxilom Ave., Cebu City

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Harbour City There’s no dimsum like Harbour City’s. It’s not completely authentic, maybe, but it’s something that’s distinctly ours— anyone who’s migrated elsewhere will confess to dreaming about a serving of steamed rice and quail egg siomai at some point. The highlight of the meal is the bowl of rice doused in a variation of sauces with pieces of meat and vegetables, best complimented with the selection of side dishes from the cart: lumpia shanghai, crab pinchers, garlic pork and the classic siomai offerings. The chain actually includes the eat-all-you-can set-up at Ding Qua Qua and the fastfood outlet Dimsum Break (which, to be fair, has already opened branches in Manila), but Harbour City’s still the name that sticks.

L/GF SM City Cebu 3F Ayala Center Cebu www.harbourcitydimsum.com

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Sutukil Sutukil actually stand for sugba (grilled), tuwa (boiled into a soup), and kilaw (served in vinegar as something similar to a ceviche). A number of small restaurants are congregated at the Lapu-Lapu monument, where diners are greeted by a table displaying a wide selection of fresh seafood with vendors who can pack up your choices and cook them however you like. These restaurants are actually on stilts that stand above the water, the salty sea air adding to the tropical charm of the meal.

LOCALES

Cebuanos share their favorite hotspots around the city, and why they think it’s the best on the island. Whether it’s an obvious choice or an obscure destination you’ve never heard of before, it’ll be a refreshing step off the beaten path.

“Shangri-La Mactan Resort & Spa has always been a favorite destination for me in Cebu, simply because their standards are higher than most. The service is impeccable from the very minute you arrive and check-in, up to the time you checkout. The facilities are always clean and provide for every need and desire a guest may have. The food is always excellent and with a variety that we can always choose from. So whether it’s a quick personal getaway for the weekend or recommending a place for visiting friends to stay, Shangri-La always comes to mind. Definitely a favorite.”

Total guest rooms and suites: 530 Dining Outlets: Tides, Tea of Spring, Cowrie Cove and Waves, Acqua, Buko Bar, Lobby Lounge and Breeze.

Notable Facilities: CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La is designed as a secluded and exclusive Spa Village that features numerous relaxing treatments and services--all done in spacious treatment villas that have their own garden patio, sunken tub, herbal steam room and shower. Price: PPP

Michael Sanchez Online Editor, Zee Lifestyle Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa Punta Engano Road, Lapu-Lapu, Cebu (032) 231 0288 www.shangri-la.com/cebu/mactanresort

••• Cafe Caw is a small, cozy and happy little shop. We serve comfort food and homemade desserts. They are not always pretty cakes but they will surely make you happy...

Cafe Caw Banilad Cebu City, Banilad, Cebu 6000 | 6332. 418 1012 |

Cafe Caw

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DATELINE CEBU

Tourist Trail There’s so much to explore in Cebu, both within the confines of the city and destinations an easy drive away.

Whether you’re in the mood for adventure, want to relax seaside or are just looking for somewhere with an exquisite view, Zee Lifestyle’s Erika Fernandez counts down her favorite destinations in Cebu.

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TOPS Whether it’s for a

romantic date or a gettogether with friends, Tops is the best spot to savor the breathtaking views of Cebu City. Located in Busay and a great tourist spot, Tops has a snack shop with drinks for your comfort. Watch the sunrise or sunset and take astounding photos of the moment; a jacket might be necessary for the evening though, as it can get fairly cold up there.

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TAOIST TEMPLE This astonishing temple is the closest you can get to China while in Cebu. The Taoist Temple was constructed in the year 1972 by Chinese citizens, and is located in Beverly Hills, Lahug, Cebu City. It’s incredible design features eye-catching dragons that come in a variety of different colors, and on some nights, it is beautifully lit up to become mesmerizing. This temple welcomes guests to walk its halls, being open to both believers and non-believers.

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OSLOB Do something extraordinary and swim with a whaleshark. It’s about a three-hour drive to Oslob from the city, but it’s worth every step on the gas pedal. Swim alongside the whaleshark and take photos of the majestic creature underwater, which makes it a great way to spend time with family and friends in the midst of nature. If you don’t want to drive another three hours

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back in one day, spend the night at Sumilon Bluewaters Resort-it’s a beautiful island getaway and just ten minutes away from Oslob by boat.

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SKY EXPERIENCE ADVENTURE This tourist spot’s name says it all; it’s definitely a high-rise adventure you’ll never forget. A perfect place for thrill-seekers, the Skywalk is a pathwalk that runs around the building’s facade 40 stories up, making it a great place to enjoy the city lights at night and the picturesque sky during the day. At one point, you’ll find yourself looking down and walking on glass--don’t worry though, it’s all completely safe. There’s also a zip line that runs from one tower to another, bringing you flying over the busy city streets below.

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MACTAN RESORTS In Cebu, the beach is never to far away, with Mactan hosting phenomenal beaches and resorts. There’s Shangri-La, Abaca, Mövenpick, Bluewaters, Crimson and many others that have become favorite destinations for locals and tourists alike. Take a break from the city life and watch the waves crash against the shores with a cool drink in hand. Treat yourself to a soothing massage by the water or have dinner at the many restaurants, all offering a wide selection of delectable dishes.

Whatever your fancy, it’s safe to say Mactan has it all.

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LOR LIKES

Looking for the right souvenirs to bring a taste of Cebu back home?

Lor Yutico enumerates her favorite local delicacies and why they deserve a place in your carry-on for the trip back home.

Zubuchon Coined from Zubu (Cebu’s name in old Spanish maps) and lechon, Zubuchon offers the roast pig stuffed with herbs and spices, the skin pricked all over and sprayed with fresh coconut water for the crispy brown skin. It’s a different version of the lechon, and Zubuchon doesn’t stop there. They also offer a variety of dishes like sisig, sinigang, monggo, and the must-try kamias shake.

Rico’s Lechon The original Rico’s Lechon, which is located in Talamban, has been in this line of business for almost 13 years now.

They serve the traditional lechon, roasted with garlic and leeks(dahon ng sibuyas) for added flavor, and a special spicy

lechon—which they’ve been serving for almost six years now. It’s a spicy alternative to the local favorite.

Highway 77, Talamban, Cebu City (032) 344-0119, 345-5688 www.ricos-lechon.com RICO’S LECHON

Address: Zubuchon Branches: Gen. Maxilom Avenue, Cebu City, (032)-2395697 Escario Street, Cebu City, (032)2540247 R. de la Cerna St, Mactan, Lapu-Lapu City, (032) - 5050130 Mactan Domestic Airport, (032) 3402486 local 3304 Rosedale Bldg. beside University of San Carlos, Talamban, (032) -2380879 Escario Bldg., Escario Street, Cebu City, (032) -2391225 The Walk, IT Park, Lahug, Cebu City - (032)-2368256 Zubuchon

Be part of the in crowd.

Insider Bar A.S. Fortuna Street, Banilad, Cebu City (032) 238 5915 insiderbar2013@yahoo.com

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July 3-14

Sabores de España Explore the richness of Spanish culture hidden in their kitchens as Café Marco’s team of culinary experts, headed by Gema Pido—Cebu’s authority on Spanish cuisine, prepares a delectable spread of Spanish dishes that is absolutely muy bien!

Marco Polo Plaza Cebu Contact (032) 253 1111 for details

July 5

Manila Meets Cebu 2K13 Organized by WalkonWater Events & Exhibits, this trade show is a chance to check out fashionable items and accessories from local companies, as well as exhibitors who flew in from Manila.

8:00AM-9:00PM Insular Square Mall, Mandaue City Contact 0917 846 2199 for details

July 5-6

French Film Festival Alliance Francaise de Cebu presents the 18th French Film Festival, which will have the screening of five exemplary French titles, including the Cannes entry Rust and Bone.

1:00 PM Cinemas 3&4, Ayala Center Cebu Contact (032) 232 1311 or visit www.alliancefr.ph for details

July 10-12

Weddings at the Parklane Parklane celebrates its seventh anniversary with a grand bridal fair in shades of gold. Wedding set-ups and mini-soirees will be found all around the hotel, and the lobby will showcase designs from seven of Cebu’s talented designers.

Call (032) 234 7000 for details

July 13

Dreamland The biggest electronic dance music festival of the season presents international top DJ and producer Paul Van Dyk, and the country’s distinguished club DJ’s like Marlon Orellano and Boyet Illustrisimo.

Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino Contact 0925 555 7221 for tickets and table reservations

July 13-14

Fruit Ninja Show Get the chance to play the beloved game live.

Get an entry pass for a minimum purchase requirement.

2:00 PM, 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM Activity Center, Ayala Center Cebu Visit the privileges desk or call (032) 232 0380 for details for details

SOCIAL CALENDAR JULY 2013

July 18-21

Make Your Own Havaianas 2013 Now on its eight year, let your creativity take off to greater heights as the world’s favorite flip-flops brand gives you the chance to create your own version of the classic. With a full spectrum of soles, straps and pins, it celebrates a parade of happiness, fun and self-expression.

10:00 AM SM City Cebu Northwing [Facebook] Havaianas Philippines [Twitter] @ HavaianasPhils

July 25

rey santos: fashion illustrations The iconic designer’s homecoming is celebrated with an exhibit of his sketches.

856G Gallery, A.S. Fortuna Street, Banilad Contact (032) 344 3039 for details

July 25-27

Cebu International Travel Expo On its fourth year, the biggest travel show in the city offers the best deals from airlines, accommodations and travel agencies.

10:30-6:30 PM (July 25 & 26) 5:00 PM (July 27) Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino Contact (02) 750 8588 for details

July 26-August 4

Swissness from A-Z Explore the rich culinary goodness of Switzerland as Marco Polo’s world-class chefs present a mouthwatering array of Swiss dishes, from Alpinedried beef to cheese fondue and Zurich-style sliced meat.

Café Marco, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu Contact (032) 253 1111 for details

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DIRECTORY

THE THE

Café Georg Table 5

Pizzeria Michelangelo

GALLERY

RESORTS & HOTELS ABACA BOUTIQUE RESORT Punta Engaño Road, Mactan Island Tel No: 6332. 495 3461, 236 0311 email: reservations@abaca.com www.abacaresort.com Alegre Beach Resort Calumboyan, Sogod, Cebu Tel. No. 6332. 254 9800, 254 9811 254 9822 Fax no. 6332. 254 9833 www.alegrebeachresort.com CEBU CITY MARRIOTT HOTEL Cardinal Rosales Avenue Cebu Business Park, Cebu City Tel. No. 6332. 411 5800 Fax No. 6332. 411 5801 www.marriottcebu.com CEBU PARKLANE International HOTEL Cebu Office: Cor. Arch. Reyes Ave. and Escario St., Cebu City Tel. No. 6332. 411 7000 www.parklanehotel.com.ph

SHANGRI-LA MACTAN RESORT & SPA Punta Engaño, Lapu-Lapu City Tel. No. 6332. 231 0288 Fax. No. 6332. 231 1688 www.shangri-la.com THE HENRY HOTEL 1 Paseo Saturnino, Cebu City Tel. No. 6332. 520 7516 www.thehouseofcebu.com THE MACTAN NEWTOWN Mactan Circumferential Road, Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan, Cebu Tel. No. 6332. 232 2020 themactannewtown@megaworldcorp.com www.themactannewtown.com.ph WATERFRONT CEBU CITY HOTEL & CASINO 1 Salinas Drive, Lahug, Cebu City Tel. No. 6332. 232 6888 Fax No. 6332. 232 6989 www.waterfronthotels.net

HOME

HOTEL ELIZABETH Archbishop Reyes Ave., Camputhaw Cebu City Tel. No. 6332. 231 8000 www.hotelelizabeth.com.ph MARIBAGO BLUEWATER BEACH RESORT Buyong Maribago, Mactan, Cebu Tel. No. 6332. 232 5411 www.bluewater.com.ph MARCO POLO PLAZA Nivel Hills, Apas, Cebu City Tel. No. 6332. 253 1111 Fax No. 6332. 253 8910 www.marcopolohotels.com PLANTATION BAY RESORT & SPA Marigondon, Mactan, Cebu Tel. No. 6332. 505 9800 Fax No. 6332. 236 4821 www.plantationbay.com RADISSON BLU HOTEL CEBU Sergio Osmeña Blvd. cor. Juan Luna Avenue, Cebu City Tel. No. 6332. 402 9900 Fax No. 6332. 402 9999 www.radissonblu.com/hotel-cebu

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BOUTIQUE

Kuvings Silent Juicer Unit C, 2nd Flr., BF Bldg.

N. Escario St. Camputhaw, Cebu City Tel No. 6332. 520 9350 Fax No. 6332. 520 8428 Mobile No. 63.916 458 6973 jml_everstrong77@yahoo.com Uratex Plaridel St., Brgy. Umapad, Mandaue City 02. 888 6800, 6332. 236 0222 facebook.com/UratexPhilippines twitter @uratexfoam www.uratex.com.ph

856 G Gallery Business Walls, 856 A.S. Fortuna St. Banilad, Mandaue City www.856ggallery.com Tel. No. 6332. 344 3039

SPAS & SALONS JESSIE GLOVA STYLE SALON 2/F Pacific Square, F. Cabahug Street, Mabolo, Cebu City Tel. No. 6332. 236 1808 Monday to Saturday:10:00am - 8:00pm; Sunday: 10:00am - 7:00pm

FASHION DESIGNERS DEXTER ALAZAS No.7 Villalon Drive, East Capitol Site Cebu City Tel. No. 6332. 583 6105 Mobile No. 63. 923 887 8861 921 520 9695 By appointment

THE SPA AT CEBU #1 Paseo Saturnino, Ma. Luisa Road, Banilad, Cebu City Tel. No. 6332. 412 0888, 416 3888 10:00am – 12:00mn daily

LOHAS SKIN CLINIC Paseo Saturnino, Ma. Luisa Road, Banilad, Cebu City Tel. No. 6332. 416 1171 Mobile. No. 63. 933 363 2550 www.lohassc.com

EXCELLENT LOCATION For Rent or Sale 44 sqm. apartment at Ethos Bloc in A.S. Fortuna Street 1 bedroom loft - fully furnished and brand new

PHOTOGRAPHY William P. Yeh Photography and Design Tel. No. 6332. 417 0029, 63. 923 405 8795 www.williampyeh.com www.facebook.com williampyehphotography

VIRUS BOUTIQUE A.S. Fortuna St., Mandaue City Tel. No. 6332. 239 7461 Banilad, Cebu City Tel. No. 6332. 520 6330 Mobile. No. 63. 917 633 6733

Php 25,000.00/month BELO MEDICAL GROUP Level 1, The Terraces, Ayala Center Cebu Tel. No. 6332. 234 2356 Mobile. No. 63. 917 552 6986 www.belomed.com

Please call Lor at (032) 415-8597 to arrange viewing

CLUBS, VENUES & RESTAURANTS SumoSam

Darras+Bowler

La Maison Rose

Linea Restaurant & Lounge

Nonki

Maya

Ginza

Darras+Bowler Unit 1&2 Crossroads Mall, Banilad Cebu City www.dplusbwines.com Tel No. 6332. 233 0832 Go for: varied wine selection Price Range: PP La Maison Rose 371 Gorordo Ave., Lahug, Cebu City Tel. No. 6332. 268 5411 Cuisine: French Specialty: beef bourguignon, French lechon Price Range: PPP SUMOSAM Lvl 1, The Terraces, Ayala Center Cebu, Cebu Business Park Tel. No. 6332. 401 0643 Mobile No. 63. 917 795 7562 Cuisine: Japanese Opens from 11:00am - 11:00pm daily

A Cafe

Abaca

Maya Crossroads, Banilad, Cebu City www.theabacagroup.com Tel. No. 6332. 238 9552, 238 9618 Cuisine: Mexican Specialty: pescado vera cruz, enchiladas de queso y pollo Price Range: PPP

Abaca Punta Engaño Road, Mactan, Cebu www.theabacagroup.com Tel. No. 6332 495 3461, 236 0311 Cuisine: Mediterranean Specialty: braised lamb shank, sea bass fillet, six-hour pork belly, chicken tagine Price Range:PPP

Ginza J. Panis St., Banilad, Cebu City www.ginzarestaurant.ph Tel. No. 6332 232 5406 Cuisine: Japanese Specialty: fish head, beef, fried rice Price Range: PPP

Linea Restaurant & Lounge E-Bloc, IT Park, Lahug, Cebu City www.linearestobar.com Tel. No. 6332. 520 2299, Mobile. No. 63. 932 271 9926 Cuisine: international Specialty: pasta, pizza, salmon, grilled tilapia with curry Price Range: PP

Nonki A.S. Fortuna St., Banilad, Mandaue City Tel. No. 6332. 422 3159 Cuisine: Japanese Specialty: sushi and sashimi, tempura, ramen noodles Price Range: PPP

Laguna Garden Cafe

A Café Crossroads, Banilad, Cebu City www.theabacagroup.com Tel. No. 6332, 505 5692 Cuisine: modern American food Specialty: burgers, sandwiches, salads, steaks Price Range: PPP Pizzeria Michelangelo

Laguna Garden Café/ Café Laguna Ayala Center Cebu, Cebu Business Park www.cafelaguna.com Tel. No. 6332. 231 0922, Mobile. No. 63. 922 233 8602 Cuisine: Filipino Specialty: kare-kare, lengua, paella, beefsteak Price Range: PP Café Georg G/F MLD Bldg., Banilad, Cebu City www.cafegeorg.com Tel. No. 6332. 234 0887 Cuisine: Asian, Mandarin and Filipino Specialty: fresh tomato and basil pasta, Singapore-styled fish Price Range: PP Pizzeria Michelangelo Paseo Saturnino, Maria Luisa Rd. Banilad, Cebu City Tel. No. 6332. 236 4297 Hola España, Punta Engaño, Lapu-Lapu City Tel. No. 6332. 340 5119 Cuisine: Italian Specialty: Biancanavy pizza Price Range: PP

PRICE RANGES: PPP = PHP 500+ per person. PP = PHP 500 or less per person. P = PHP 150 and below per person. Prices not including drinks.

INSIDE

CEBU

The latest coffee table book from Zee Publications Inc., features 27 stylish homes in Cebu.

Available in Fully Booked, Power Books and National Book Stores.

Or you can order via www.zeelifestylecebu.com

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