Karlo Pacana
Anzani New Mediterranean Restaurant in Cebu
Looking for one of the best fine dining establishments in Cebu? Want a taste of New Mediterranean Cuisine prepared by one of its pioneering founders? Want to have a romantic dinner on top of a hill with a panoramic view of the city?
The King of Sinulog is off to Anzani located in Nivel Hills in Lahug Cebu City. Internationally recognized as the “Best Restaurant in Southeast Asia” by the IATHR in Madrid, here is an account of my experience at this well-awarded restaurant during the Cebu Food Crawl.
Getting There
Assuming you’re already in Cebu City, you can tell the taxi driver to head to Nivel Hills in Lahug via JY Square Mall and ascend Cebu Veteran’s Drive. The restaurant is located on the left side on the road before reaching Marco Polo Hotel Cebu. There are also public utility jeepneys (04C and 17C) plying this route.
Ambiance
Arriving past 5 in the afternoon, we were greeted by the manager and ushered in. The first thing I noticed was a desk full of restaurant awards right across a mini-library. A few steps in, you’ll come across a very spacious room subdivided to separate reserved dining areas with an elegant table setup that could accommodate about 80 people. Each dining area had different designs for its tables and chairs. The interiors were decorated to the finest detail with intricate chandeliers and creatively-designed lamps. Surrounded by glass windows and sliding doors, you still have a good view outside wherever you are seated. My favorite part however is their underground wine cellar because of its privacy and sense of exclusivity that could probably accommodate about 10 people.
Going outside their extended outdoor deck with a panoramic view is a different story as well. Before the sun goes down, you’ll have the chance to see the 5-hectare orchid farm below. By nightfall, you’ll see the place transform to a very romantic spot. Right beside Anzani is a champagne bar called Bellini that could serve as a good chill out spot before or after dinner.
Food
The restaurant serves New Mediterranean Cuisine sourcing local and imported ingredients which is clearly evident in their menu offering featuring a wide array of gourmet dishes infused with culinary innovation, attention to detail and food presentation that results to a perfect balance of textures and flavors. We were fortunate to try out a full course meal sampler from appetizers to dessert. Every dish represented a culinary journey to unexplored spots in the Mediterranean. Indeed, the food was a combination of familiarity and excitement, truly an experience worth coming back for.
Price
For first time guests, I highly recommend trying out their full course meal for a total experience. That way you could taste the coastal spin of the new flavors of Mediterranean Cuisine prepared by Chef Marco Anzani himself. A typical meal for two would cost around PHP3,000 including drinks.
Service
The transition from the managers’ shifts was smooth since we were there during daytime and nighttime. By the time we were there, service was impeccable. All our needs and inquiries were met. The staff were very professional.
Overall
If you’re looking for a venue where gourmet food, entertainment, comfort and style merge then Anzani is perfect for you. Just don’t forget to book a reservation at least a week in advance. Later!
Contact Information
Anzani is located at Panorama Heights, in Nivel Hills, Cebu Veterans Drive, Lahug, Cebu City. For reservations, please call (+63)(32)232-7375 or (+63)(32) 236-0097. You may also visit www.anzani.com.ph for a complete list of their menu.
