FOOD - La Maison Rose

I have heard of La Maison Rose for quite a while but given my lack of interest on French cuisine (first hand experience here), I have always shrugged it off.  This changed though when I drove one of my bosses here.  Sure looks like a good place to have a date so a week after, I surprised my wife with a lunch date...

La Maison Rose is a tough place to miss given its pink exterior.  It's just along Gorordo Avenue right beside the Mormon temple.

This building used to be a residence of the Velez family until Alliance Frances de Cebu rented it in 2012.  Ground floor was turned to a restaurant while the 2nd floor, a culinary school.  What's really impressive is they managed to maintain the "classic" feel of the area despite these changes.

Now for the food...which you can order/ choose from using iPads...

For starters, they offer the usual baguette slices but to our pleasant surprise, they gave a complimentary sampling of this dish.  It's a combination of truffle paste, smoked salmon and my favorite, bread puff with cheese (which justifies how cheap my taste bud is).

For our main appetizer, we ordered the goat cheese salad.  The combination of bacon and goat cheese together with their signature vinaigrette sauce is a sure way to build up your appetite.  My only caveat here is the goat cheese inside the crust is mixed with flour of some sort.  

For our refreshments, we just ordered their lemonade.  There's nothing really special about it other than the hint of mint and cucumber which is more than enough to satisfy our taste.  

For the main course I had the black pepper steak.  I mistakenly ordered it as medium well so the texture is quite hard for me but nonetheless, it packs a lot of flavor which more than compensates it.  If there was a disappointment it's the gravy that came with it as it doesn't really complement how the steak was cooked.  A steak sauce would've been a better option.

My wife in the meantime ordered their fish papillote.  In contrast to the sauce of my black pepper steak, the one that came with this dish was great.  It's a ginger cream sauce which complemented even the potato wedges.

Aaaaaaah...dessert...no date with my wife would be complete without one.  We had the very safe chocolate coulant which is very simple but baked to perfection.  Crunchy on the outside yet the inside is really moist.

Note though that La Maison Rose change their menu on a daily basis.  They also offer set meals (appetizer, main course, dessert) for ony P500.

If you plan on dining here, it is recommended that you make a reservation as seats are limited.

So that's it, another culinary treasure in our Cebu restaurant checklist.  Really loving life in Cebu!

La Maison Rose
info@lamaisonrose.ph
632 2685411

FOOD - La Lagrima Taqueria

I have always been a fan of Mexican food but the lack of options remain to be one of my frustrations staying in Cebu...until NOW.  There are actually options in Mooon and Maya but the former is too "commercialized" (can't even consider it being Mexican food) while the latter "ultra expensive" (albeit quite good).  Then we came across this Mexican restaurant thanks to our new friends Chiqui and Luna.

Name of the restaurant is actually La Lagrima Taqueria.  But don't look for any signage showing this as it's nowhere to be seen. Mexican food is all you need to look for.

I actually had friends who have seen this (me including) but opted not to check it out.  The missing signage might be a factor but I think the bigger issue is it being always empty.  Which is both good and bad.

On a supposedly busy afternoon, we were the only customers (albeit 2 just left).  It actually doesn't look like a taqueria at all as even the cashier table, wherein all the ingredients, etc should be on display to entice our taste buds, is very bare.  And the chairs...not comfy at  all.

BUT all these issues doesn't matter...let's dwell into their menu...

For starters, we had their Super Nachos.  What can I say...if you're a fan of Man vs. Food and is craving for the Nachos Adam Richman is munching on...look no further!  You actually have the choice of what kind of meat to put and we settled for beef...which unfortunately for some parts, takes a lot of effort to chew.

Juvvy in the meantime, sticking to her so-called "diet", just had a soft taco (she almost single handedly finished the Super Nachos though).  Nothing special but the salsa, beans and beef are really authentic in flavor.  

I ordered the regular burritto and I was not disappointed at all.  Nothing special as it's just rice, grilled chicken and salsa but it packs a lot of flavor and is way way more authentic in taste compared to that of Mexicali. 

Drink choices are very much common except for this.  Make sure to order their Aguas Frescas.  It's a "rice" juice of some sort with a twist of vanilla.  It's a little rough in the throat so make sure to drink it while cold.

Our companions ordered the Flautas (photo above) and Quesadillas (no photo...but just think of the usual Quesadillas in steroids).  Flatuas are just like Juvvy's soft tacos with the main difference of this being deep fried.  Wasn't able to test it but they finished it easily so it should be good also.

Doesn't look like much but these two are the difference maker.  Hands down best sauces I tasted...EVER!!!  The beige colored sauce is the hot sauce while the green one their mild sauce.  I hope I can decifer the ingredients but it was so good, I opted just to enjoy as much of it as possible!

So there you go.  Price wise, it's not cheap but to which I can consider good value for your money.  Authenticity is it's main selling point together with that amazing sauce (can't really get over it).

As an added tidbit, the owner/ chef has his own chain of taquerias in California.  He fell in love with Cebu and decided to put up one here as well.  Life is good isn't it?

La lagrima Taqueria is located at the GF of RCDC Building, located along Banilad, Cebu (right beside Banilad Town Centre).

FOOD - Turning Japanese in Cebu

Given the huge number of Japan tourists in Cebu, it follows that there is an abundance of Japanese restaurants to cater to their longing of Japanese cuisine.  The more famous ones are Nonki/ Kagura (along AS Fortuna) and Yakiniku Tajimaya/ Banri (along Crossroads Banilad).  There are of course the so-called "underground or really authentic"...and one of the is Ofuku-San.

I have actually ignored this restaurant for almost 3 years due to its location and rusty look.  The fact that it's been there for more than a decade with minimal (if not no) renovations is a testament to that!  But in our search for better Japanese restos, we gave this a try and man, where we in for a big surprise...

Interior very much reflects its exterior.  It is old and rusty which in a way that it reflects its authenticity.  This is actually a good selling point but doesn't really spell premium which is how its products are priced.  But these are all aesthetics...now for the food...

As mentioned, price is on the high side but the serving size and taste justifies the cost.  I had the Inaka Barasushi and Hot Inaniwa Udon set which is priced at P370.  As you can see, serving is generous and the taste...really authentic and good.

My wife in the meantime had the Ebi Furai Bentoh.  A combination of Breaded Tiger Prawns, Chicken Teriyaki, Age Deshi Tofu and Rice.  All priced at P360.

If there was a letdown, it's their Japanese rice.  I wouldn't even go to the level of considering it as one.

All in all, this is one Japanese resto we would eat over and over again and which I would highly recommend.  But stick to their noodles as this is their specialty.  Not sure of their sashimis though...but I would guess they are good also.

Ofuku-San is located along the chain of restaurants of Gaisano Country Mall at the GF.

FOOD - Portland

One thing I love about Portland, other than shopping tax free, is the chance to enjoy good local food.  I have been to the famous and expensive restaurants such as the likes of Jack's Crawfish, Ruth's Chris Steak House, Picnic House and 23 Hoyt among others but for some reason, it doesn't satisfy my craving for local food.  So I made it a point to go where majority of the locals go...

BURGERS...FIVE GUYS

Whenever I think of US food, first thing that comes to my mind is "Burgers".  So when I asked a friend of mine where the best burger in Portland is, without hesitation his response was Five Guys.  I was like huh?

I was told that the establishment name was derived on the history of its owners.  Just five guys who thought about opening a joint that offers the best burgers in town.  Hmmmm...now only if putting up a business is this simple.

Don't let its name fool you though.  This establishment has won numerous awards as the best burger in town and for good reason.  If their perfectly grilled burgers is not enough, you have the option to choose as many toppings as you wish.  And free peanuts!!!

One thing I found weird (no surprise here...it's Portland!) was the choice of a single or double patty...at the same price.  But heck, I sure am hungry so a double patty for me please!  And oh, they claim to offer less calories than other burgers...


FOOD CART...NONG'S KHAO MAN GAI

Another staple part of Portland's food industry is its food carts.  You have a plethora of choices ranging from Korean, Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, etc.  But one food cart stands above them all...Nong's Khao Man Gai.


Food cart is headed by Nong Poonsukwattana who not only is the boss, but order taker as well.  Her cart has won Portland's best food cart and continue to be one of the more if not most lined up carts in the city.


Best and most popular dish is obviously the name of her store.  Khao Man Gai chicken.  I was surprised that for something so simple, it just packs a lot of flavor.

You know it's good Thai food when Thai people love it...and my Thai friends just can't get enough of this dish.

There are actually a lot more like Voodoo donuts but unfortunately, I had the tonsils back then so no sweets for me.  Oh well, probably next year again if I get the chance :)

FOOD - Best Burger in Cebu

Looking for the best burger in Cebu?  We finally found it in BIG TOM'S!!!

Just how good is it?  It's tagline alone speaks for itself...Freshly Ground, Never Frozen, Handmade Daily!  Still not sold?  Juvvy just finished a 4oz burger, on a diet and she still grabbed my last bite!

After tasting their burger, we vowed never to go back eating at Army Navy, Burger Joint, Jollibee...uhm...wait, this is too much to ask...let's just leave it to those serving charbroiled burgers!

Big Tom's is located along Juan Osmena St., Cebu City.  Note that it's not really a formal restaurant/ joint.  You need to call if you plan to dine in as it's really a residential place which garden was transformed to an outdoor dining area.  Having your burgers delivered or picked up may prove to be the best way to enjoy their burgers.

They are planning to build a restaurant by December.  I can't wait as surely, we will be a regular visitor once it's up and running.  And I expect others to do the same so don't wait...grabe one now and enjoy this hidden treasure of Cebu.

For deliveries/ inquiries, just call 032 5147007.

FOOD - Gusteau's GenSan

When talking about GenSan, only one word comes to mind...and no it's not Pacquiao, Tuna, etc.  It's Gusteau's!  Gus-what you might say?  

Gusteau's is one of the best and probably most famous seafood restaurant in GenSan. .  Restaurant is not much to look at but once you see all those eating inside, you know you're in the right place.  Staff are very courteous as well.

Their must haves are as follows...

GARLIC TUNA BELLY...it's crazy how perfect they cook this dish.  It's crispy on the outside yet the inside is so fresh and chewy.  Serving is actually good for 2-4 persons but it's so damn good, I can finish the whole thing!

SPICY PRAWN...I would actually like to change it to sweet and spicy prawn but you know what, it doesn't matte as it's so good as well!  Deciphering its ingredients, they used olive oil, tons of garlic, pepper (too much though based on my last meal), and sugar.  I'm sure there's a lot more but these are the ones that pop out.  You have the option to order specific sizes and quantities as well.

OCEAN KING CRAB...oh man...let me just put it this way.  I hate eating with my hands...EXCEPT when I'm eating this!  Only the tons of garlic standout but there should be a lot more herb and spices as it is so tasty!  

When in GenSan, make sure to stop by the place.  It's located at the 2F of Sun City Complex which is along the National Highway.  Note that cooking usually takes time and the place gets filled-up easy so it's best to pre-order.  Their number is 083 3048682.  

FOOD - Mr. India Restaurant

When you talk about the best eats in Cebu, the usual restos pop-up: Casa Verde, CNT, AA's, etc.  But now being a long term resident, these establishments have lost their glamour among our taste buds.  Thus the urge to look for other varieties...heck, we now appreciate Shakey's more than ever...

Then we came upon Mr. India.

This establishment is situated along the chain of restos of Gaisano Country Mall.  It's a small and simple place butyou can feel its authenticity.  Disclaimer: I haven't been to India so this is very much a personal view.

One thing that really caught my attention, which honestly is not much of a surprise, is the abundance of foreigners and their "local" partners.  If you are sensitive about this then this might not be the place for you.


But it's all about the food and in this regard, they did not disappoint.  Their servers stress that what they serve is authentic.  Since I haven't been to India, my educated guess is they are 70-80% accurate.  Bottom line though is it's surprisingly tasty...and CHEAP!

I ordered their Chicken Biryani meal which set me back just P109. For this price, you get a big plate of Basmati rice and underneath it is a quarter sized chicken.  Size of the chicken is not big nor small but it's tasty enough that you will have the urge to eat more than your usual serving of rice.

It also came along with a freshly served Papadum (ala fish cracker).

As for Juvvy, she ordered their Non Veggie Thali meal.  It's a combination of 1 Dal (Lentil soup), Non veggie dish (which varies daily), 1 Rice (which Juvvy changed to another Papadum), 1 Naan Paratha (tortilla), 1 Papadum and 1 Desert (milky syrup with mini tapiocas).  All these served on a "prison" like plate.  It won't win any award in terms of presentation nor will make you appreciate it more but once you start eating it, it's also surprisingly good.  And oh, all of these just cost P99!

It's only now that I'm blogging about this place but we've actually eaten here multiple times already.  I'm sure there are better and more authentic Indian restuarants within Cebu but if you just want a no frills value for money place, look no further.

FOOD - Giuseppe Pizzeria and Sicilian Roast

Giuseppe Pizzeria and Sicilian Roast


For some reason, after my trip to Jakarta a couple of months ago, I have been longing to eat Ravioli (yeah I know it's weird but this was the one I ate that I enjoyed the most).  Sharing this with my wife, she took the initiative of cooking one for me.  It was indeed a labor of love as she had to create the dough from scratch which involved mixing, mashing, wrestling and all other muscle building actions you can think of.

I had to help her thin out the flour using a hardwood rolling pin as her arm muscles are too tired already.  And man, I am now regretting why I didn't let her buy a pasta maker!  But after all the muscle aches, we were able to successfully create our home made ravioli.

Unfortunately, it was more of a rubber-ioli as the damn dough was still too thick.  We vowed to just eat/ buy a cooked dish when we wish to eat this.


Then I was introduced to Giuseppe Pizzera and Sicilian Roast which is situated along Maria Luisa Road.  It's an Italian restaurant which price points are in between the Casa Verde and Anzani type of restos.  

Parking is quite hard as there's only about 5 slots.  It was dinner time the first time I ate here and it was jam packed so we decided to have lunch here instead.  And I was right on as we arrived in time for their store opening which is 11:30am.

Our mind was already set to have their spinach Ravioli so it's just a choice of what dishes to complement it with.    We decided on a mushroom soup and a four-cheese pizza.  Juvvy was actually eyeing some fish or meat but after what we had for dinner the day before, I had to push that we go the vegetarian route.

Another reason I decided on a pizza was this is one of Giuseppe's specialties.  They are known to be the first (if not only) restaurant in Cebu that serves pizza cooked inside a brick oven.

While waiting for our orders, we were invited by their staff to look at their grocery at the 2nd floor.  Man!  It was more of a mini-warehouse of italian ingredients and pastas!

They offer champagnes, wines, frozen seafoods, etc.  Anything you need to cook up an Italian dish, they have it.  But as with their menu, prices are quite high.




Preparation of our food was fast with our soup being served first (obviously), followed by the four-cheese pizza and then my long awaited ravioli.  In terms of the taste, I have mixed emotions about it.  The mushroom soup is quite good and filling as it also has angel noodles mixed into it.

The pizza was a bit of a let down.  Our expectations were probably a little too high and with taste buds built for Shakey's and Pizza Hut, it really didn't deliver.  The dough was cooked nicely but then again, I was expecting more flavor for a brick oven cooked pizza.

For the ravioli, it was pretty much the same.  I was expecting a juicy/ rich filling of spinach and cheese but it was quite dry for my taste.  The sauce on the other hand was too rich but this is my fault as I didn't look closely and was expecting a cream sauce instead.

But despite our dissatisfaction, it is still a restaurant we would go back to dine-in again.  Staff are very courteous and the ambience perfect to enjoy a nice and quiet lunch/ dinner.  Next time we will probably forego the pasta/ pizza combo and order their famous Roast Pork with Risotto instead. 

Additional Photos:

Ravioli with Spinach and Cheese

Interior of Giuseppe

Stairs leading to the Italian grocery/ warehouse

Hanging banner design at the 2nd floor...just found it to be quite interesting

Name it...they should have it

GEAR INFO: All photos taken with an iPhone 4 and edited using Snapseed and/ or Instagram