Karlo Pacana
Lighthouse Cebu: Premier Native Restaurant
Looking for one of Cebu’s premier restaurants that originally created some of the signature Filipino dishes you worship and enjoy today? Don’t worry because I’ve got you covered.
Facade at Lighthouse Restaurrant
I’ll be sharing to you my recent dining experience at one of the household names in the Queen City of the South’s restaurant industry, Lighthouse.
First Impressions
Suppose it was my first time seeing glowing red signage on the second floor of Gaisano Country Mall Banilad from the highway. In that case, I’ll probably confuse it for a bar or a nightclub, which is what you would expect to see among some of the older establishments along Mango Avenue.
But since I have fond memories of its older branch near Colegio dela Inmaculada Concepcion, I know deep in my heart that what’s waiting for me inside is good food.
Ambiance
Upon entering the restaurant, you’ll immediately notice that every inch of the place is filled with native aesthetic detail: cloudy skies for the ceiling, banana trees in the corners, beach umbrellas on some tables, and a hanging bridge that leads to a wishing well.
By the bar is the reception area, where you’ll see photographs of famous local celebrities who had dined here before, which made me realize that this place was indeed the go-to restaurant in Cebu for a time.
Lighthouse is perfect for big events and gatherings with the space maximized for seating capacity.
Dining Experience
As mentioned earlier, Lighthouse is known for its native offerings. If ever you’re a local who is craving something quite difficult to prepare at home or if you have foreign guests who’d like a taste of Filipino cuisine, then, by all means, bring them over here.
The highlight of the Night
Lechon de Leche at PHP5000 – You can pre-order this before your dinner at Lighthouse. It was so crispy and tender that you could slice it with only a side plate. Definitely worth it!
Appetizers
Kinilaw na Tangigue at PHP150 – Raw with a subtle sour kick, just like how my lolo used to make.
Baked Talaba at PHP188 – It was cheesy, garlicky, baked just right, and served on a bed of salt.
Soups
Mixed Ocean Soup at PHP160 – Carefully selected seafood in a white and creamy sauce.
Pochero at PHP210 – A beef stew that was on point in taste but just lacked fall-off-the-bone quality.
Noodles
Pancit Canton at PHP132 – Complete ingredients, generous serving size and delicious.
Main Dishes
Tangigue Fish Fillet at PHP295 – Baked and served with mayo sauce, it was super creamy that the fish just melted in my mouth. This is my favorite dish at Lighthouse.
Kare-Kare at PHP520 – Oxtail stew in peanut sauce. It surely is an acquired taste, but it was a bit expensive for me and lacked savoriness.
Inutok na Alimango at PHP220 – Crabmeat with coconut milk which didn’t look as good as it tasted.
Sweet and Sour Pork at PHP142 – Quite affordable however the sauce is too strong for my taste.
Chicken Pandan at PHP236 – Boneless chicken marinated and wrapped in pandan leaves. This is best eaten immediately and dipped in its amazing sauce.
Tuna Panga at PHP65 per 100g – Marinated and grilled to perfection, I just couldn’t get enough of it.
Rice
Paella Rice at PHP300 – A meal in itself; I’m just not a fan of tomato-based fried rice with chicken, pork, and seafood.
Fiesta Fried Rice at PHP235 – Fried rice with bacon and chorizo.
Desserts
Banana Mora at PHP79 – Coated ripe banana fried and topped with vanilla ice cream, a must-try!
Mango Pandan at PHP80 – Pandan-flavored gelatin and sago with mango strips.
Fruit Boat at PHP450 – Fresh Fruits in a dragon boat. Sweetness is variable.
Final Thoughts
Through the decades, I guess it is safe to say that Lighthouse has successfully maintained its high level of standard in its offerings at a price point that’s still affordable for the average Cebuano.
After reading this, I know you couldn’t wait to head over to Gaisano Country Mall. Rest assured that if you bring the whole barrio, everyone will be seated nicely. Happy Fiesta!
This foodie meet-up was made possible by Zomato PH in partnership with Lighthouse.
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