Karlo Pacana
Ola Resto in Cebu
Looking for an elegant culinary experience in uptown Cebu? In the mood for some cocktails and just unwind with friends after a long day? Want to jazz up the night with in-house live entertainment?
The King of Sinulog and fellow CBS members were recently invited for dinner at Ola Resto along Escario Street. Ola is taken from a Spanish word which means ‘hello’. Read on to know more what this bar, lounge and restaurant has to offer.
Getting There
Assuming you’re already in Cebu City, tell the taxi driver to drop you off at The Maxwell Hotel along Escario Street. The restaurant is situated below the hotel by the highway. Also plying this route are public utility jeepneys (17B and 14D) heading to Lahug and Ayala.
Ambiance
With its classy feel and exclusive overall vibe, Ola Resto attracts upper class clientele and influential personalities in Cebu. With a seating capacity of 70, this establishment is populated with multiple artworks, white leather fixtures and striking chandeliers.
Food
The menu focuses on modern International Cuisine and a few Filipino favorites to entice the local crowd. Each dish was freshly prepared with the finest ingredients, cooked just right with balanced flavors and well-presented in white plates and sizzling platters.
For our appetizers, we had Ola Bruschetta at PHP230 which consists of French bread, tomato, fetta cheese, pesto sauce and olive oil and Shrimp Salad at PHP220 composed of shrimps, cucumber, carrot, bell pepper and balsamic vinaigrette.
For our soup, we had Chunky Potato Bacon with croutons, bell pepper and celery and Tomato Basil Cream with basil and French bread both at PHP190 each.
For our pasta, we had Chicken Aglio-Olio composed of penne, olive oil, garlic, chili and mushroom at PHP265 and Seafood Marinara composed of spaghetti, shrimp, squid, seashell, tomato sauce and parmesan cheese at PHP330.
For Filipino favorites, we had Crispy Pata at PHP430, Lengua Estofado at PHP380, Beef Tapa at PHP215 and Sizzling Pork Sisig at PHP205.
For International dishes, we had Paella “Dela Ola” at PHP565, Pork Baby Back Ribs at PHP435, Beef Salpicao at PHP340, Grilled Salmon Fillet at PHP425 and Spicy Yellow Squid at PHP455.
We all commenced the delightful dinner each with a different type of cocktail ranging from PHP130 to PHP180 and some live music. I don’t know why but dry martini and standard classics just coincide.
The dishes that left an impression on me include the Chicken Aglio-Olio with its spicy kick, Sizzling Pork Sisig with fatty goodness to die for and Paella “Dela Ola” with inspiration from the traditional Valenciana but a combination of five meat flavors and sticky rice. The Lengua Estofado, Grilled Salmon Fillet and Spicy Yellow Squid are also a must-try!
Price and Service
A typical meal for two would cost around PHP1,500. Prices are inclusive of 12% VAT and subject to 5% service charge. The team at Ola was competent and professional from the kitchen crew to the waitresses up to the live performers. The owners were very hands-on in entertaining their guests. They also cater to private functions and events up to 35 persons.
Overall
If you’re looking for an exclusive and elegant dining destination, then Ola Resto is for you. Later!
Restaurant Information
Ola Resto is located along Escario Street in Cebu City right below The Maxwell Hotel. For bookings, you may contact them at (032) 238 2278. They are open daily from 6PM to 2AM. For updates, check out their official Facebook page.
