Besides blogging, Brennan of Baktin Corporation, Doi of The Travelling Feet, RJ the explorer, and yours truly share a fascination for great food, drinks, and conversations.
So when the squad leader suggested a coffee klatch from 7 a.m. on a Sunday, everyone agreed. No questions asked.
Lucky for us, Banilad Cebu offers new, unique, and at times, unexpected dining destinations anyone can enjoy on a lazy Sunday.
From 7AM to 3PM, we scoured places to nibble, sip, and relish new flavours. From Crossroads to Banilad Town Center to Oakridge, here are the dining spaces you need to check out for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between:
Abaca Baking Company
7AM – 10 PM daily, Crossroads Mall, Banilad
Aside from the generous refills of brewed coffee (only P60) from 7AM – 10AM, I love the cozy, chill vibe of this all-day breakfast cafe.
Dark Cherry Danish is a sinful indulgence you’ll easily give in to, much to the chagrin of dieters. Forgive yourself if you couldn’t resist a second or third bite of this sweet and savory Danish treat. 
Meanwhile, their eggs benedict can be a little pricey (at P295) but it’s worth every bite. And look at that, aren’t they picture-perfect? I’ve seen an episode of Master Chef where almost every contestant mangled its recipe. But the Abaca pasty chefs got these just right based on the review of my discerning companions.
Brennan told us to reserve him some croissants because the cafe tends to run out of these flaky, buttery pastries. Their croissants cost P95 each, look fabulous and sound amazing (Brennan cut it with a fork to prove this point). But I have yet to see the appeal of this air-filled pastry.
Hala Paella!
10AM – 11 PM daily, Banilad Town Center, Banilad
Filipinos love rice for its neutral taste that tames the sour, salty, sweet, and spicy dishes we often pair it with (e.g. paksiw, adobo, bulad, etc.).
Paella is the opposite of that regular plain white rice we grew up loving. It’s exploding with colors and flavors. This classic Spanish rice is making a comeback and it’s catching on in Banilad. It’s awesome how paella varieties are now so accessible, delectable, and affordable at the heart of Cebu City.
If you like your rice experience altered, you have to try Hala Paella’s traditional and modern takes on the dish. Invite your friends to dine with you to taste all varieties on offer: seafood, squid ink, chorizo, lechon plus more.
P.S. : don’t miss their ‘fall-off-the-bone’ chuletas, which you can share with three other friends. Superb!
10 Dove Street Confectionery
10AM – 10 PM daily, Oakridge Business Park, Banilad
After a filling lunch at Hala Paella, score some sweet treats at 10 Dove Street Confectionery.
Conveniently located in Oakridge Business Park, it’s a 10-minute walk from Banilad Town Center. If it’s hot, you can either hail a cab or ride a jeepney from Caltex at AS Fortuna Street. RJ grabbed a taxi for us and in a few minutes, we reached our dessert destination.
The first time I tried to have a meal at 10 Dove Street, the staff told us they were full. Fortunately, this famous dessert cafe and confectionery was not so busy last Sunday. Also, its newly rented space can accommodate a huge party.
Brennan dared we use the outdoor seating for natural light but the heat was unbearable. The icing on our cakes could melt under the unforgiving sun. Plus, we knew he was just kidding. 🙂
A little background about this dainty bakeshop is in order.
Mrs. Marisol Verallo started this quaint cafe out of a consistent popular demand for her delicious home-baked cakes and pastries. At first, her customers were just friends and families who would come by her home at 10 Dove Street Sto. Nino Village. As her baked goodies rose to fame, more customers wanted a slice of her bespoke cakes.
Since 2002, her yummy creations have been showcased outside her house but they managed to keep the pastry shop as inviting as a home.
Keep in mind these comfort food havens and sweet escapes when you’re in Banilad. To multiply the fun, bring along friends or meet people you want to get to know well.
P.S.
If you find a special dining spot in Banilad, don’t keep it a secret please. Make use of the comment section. Thanks! 🙂