Cibo, a name synonymous with modern Italian cafe culture, has entered Cebu’s culinary landscape. On December 15, 2023, the Upper Ground Floor of SM Seaside City Cebu’s Seaview Wing welcomed the highly anticipated opening of its first branch in the Queen City of the South.
Cibo’s arrival in Cebu is a celebration of quality, authenticity, and the joy of Italian cuisine.
This also marks a significant milestone as Cibo’s second foray into the Visayas, following the success of Cibo Bacolod, and asserts its presence as the 23rd branch nationwide.
Margarita Forés, the founder of Cibo and the celebrated 2016 Asia’s Best Female Chef brings her dream and decades of culinary expertise to Cebu. Her journey, which started with a small catering business in 1987, evolved into the realization of Cibo in 1997.
“Cibo was born out of a dream for me to finally open a restaurant,” Forés shares, reflecting on her path from catering to establishing a restaurant that embodies the essence of Italian cafe culture she admired in Rome and Milano.
Cibo’s philosophy is rooted in simplicity and authenticity. The word ‘cibo’ means food—a straightforward representation of the brand’s commitment to delivering authentic yet modern Italian cuisine.
Forés recalls her initial vision, “I really wanted people to experience the Panini Culture of Milano, simple pasta but always al dente, and other unique aspects of the food that I was doing.”
The menu at showcases the brand’s cornerstone recipes, which remain best sellers even 26 years after their debut. These include the iconic Spinach Dip, Penne Al Telefono, Tagliata Di Manzo, and the crunchy Tiramisu, along with the Cibo Iced Tea and Grape Shake. These dishes embody the enduring commitment to making life more beautiful and delicious.
Cibo’s expansion continues further. The brand plans to open two more branches in Cebu early in 2024, further solidifying its regional presence. Additionally, a noteworthy collaboration is on the horizon. In February 2024, Cibo will join forces with Zubuchon to introduce an exciting collaboration, combining the best of Italian and local flavors.
Forés emphasizes the importance of consistency and quality, “We make sure that the food we serve in Cebu maintains the same quality as in Manila, with a nearly 100% complete and similar menu.” This commitment to quality is complemented by a desire to integrate local produce. It reflects adaptability and respect for local culture.
For those new to Cibo, Forés recommends starting with the best sellers: Spinach Dip, Iced Tea, Grape Shake, Tagliata, Telefono, and Tiramisu. These dishes, beloved for over two decades, are a testament to culinary excellence.
Cibo’s arrival in Cebu is a celebration of quality, authenticity, and the joy of Italian cuisine. The Queen City of the South has welcomed Cibo with open arms, and the future looks promising as Cibo continues to spread its culinary magic. Visit them at SM Seaside City Cebu’s Seaview Wing and experience authentic and modern Italian cuisine.
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