WITH the sudden flourish of restaurants and cafes in Cebu, the challenge of finding a place that serves good food and has great ambiance has risen as well.

But at Gumbology, it's a different story.

Located at the City Time Square in Mandaue, Gumbology offers a fresh concept for the Cebuano palate with its Gumbo dishes–a dish made up of flavored stock, okra, meat or shellfish, a thickener, and seasoning vegetables, a literal melting pot from the diverse cultures of New Orleans.

Proprietor Vivian Chaplin was quick to explain that Gumbology is their analysis of the gumbo cuisine.

“There's a saying when it comes to gumbo and it's that 'The best gumbo is mine' and it's perfectly acceptable to say that because it's not gumbo if it's not truly yours.”

With their amazing dishes such as grilled chicken gumbo, big easy gumbo and gumbo made up of sausages and seafood, it's no surprise that those who are gumbo aficionados have praised Gumbology for having good gumbo dishes as well as great pizzas and chowder.

But what truly makes this hidden gem of a restaurant so great is the essence of fun and spontaneity it embodies.

The dishes are vibrant and fun, both in flavor and in presentation, while the interior itself has the Mardi Gras feel to it, walls adorned with masks and painting, something that Vivian and her husband dabbled their hands in.

“You see, at Gumbology, it's all about sharing, the concept of sharing, and having fun.”

Fore more information, visit www.facebook.com/gumbologyceburestobar. (HVO)