Part of my bank job is to go to several provinces and orient different branches on our different card products. Of course, after such grueling presentation, we need to eat and sample the cuisines of these provinces. I have been to Cebu countless times but this is my first time to try Rica’s. The restaurant is nestled in the corner of Paseo Saturnino. The outside has Dedon inspired furniture while the inside is highlighted with a large glass wall which inscribes the latest menu. Meanwhile, the furniture is made of French inspired furniture with subdued colors and the walls are predominantly white. The entire place is quite intimate with the ambiance ideal for dates or quiet dinners.

Aside from the impeccable interiors, the food is to die for. Their complimentary focaccia stick is addictive especially combined with diced tomato and olive oil — a reorder seems to be mandatory . To quench one’s thirst especially during a hot summer there are lots of drinks to choose from but not to be missed is their dalandan shake. However, since dalandan is quite available in Manila, then the raspberry shake is a welcome change. The drink is not to sweet but definitely very refreshing.

For the main dish, their grilled cod is very good coupled with spinach leaves. The gambas has a spicy bite but will make you beg for more. But their piece de resistance is their salpicao with garlic rice. The beef is so tender with their seasoning so perfect which will make you crave for more — to good that I ordered a second.

Of course, even I am not a dessert person their apple pie with ice cream is such a sin to be missed.

Once in Cebu City Rica is a must stop. We were here during lunch and we were impressed. I am sure that a dinner here with wine and candle light and another salpicao will even be more memorable.

Just a tip, the food is so good that you will lost track of time just like what happened to me. You wouldn’t want dagger looks from your fellow plane passengers waiting for you late ass. Such a small price to pay for a second round of salpicao.

Next visit, I will try their wagyu burger .

Address: No. 1 Paseo Saturnino, Ma. Luisa Road, Cebu City
Tel. no.: (032) 236-3562
Reservations: not to much during weekday lunch but needed during weekends especially during dinners
Pricing: Manila standards – reasonable. Each main dish ranges from Php250 to 350.
Seating capacity: less than 30
Parking: Ample