SunStar’s Best of Cebu continues the tradition of shining a light on the finest establishments, brands and services across the metropolis. For this edition, the committee recognizes six homegrown brands that embody excellence, resilience and innovation in their respective industries.
The recipients of the Best of Cebu Industry Awards have not only achieved significant growth and diversification but have also projected the unique Cebuano spirit outside the Queen City.
Here are the recipients of the Best of Cebu 2024 Industry Awards:
Habagat Outdoor Equipment Inc.
Habagat Outdoor Equipment Inc. earned its accolade on strengths built over decades: Cebu craftsmanship, community-driven eco‑sports and durable gear for real‑world adventure. Founded in the 1970s by local mountaineers crafting gear by hand, the brand grew into a national name through landmark events like the pioneering Carrera Habagat adventure race and early support for kayaking, mountain biking, caving and climbing in Cebu and beyond. The new Habagat Sports Climbing Facility Cebu reflects a new chapter in urban recreation, reinforcing its commitment to physical wellness, sustainability and proudly homegrown innovation — bringing the mountains closer to home, one climb at a time.
TOPS Cebu
Perched atop the hills of Busay, TOPS Cebu has long been a beloved vantage point for panoramic views of the Queen City and its coastline. But what sets TOPS apart from other decades-old tourist destinations is that it continues to evolve while preserving its iconic identity. Once known primarily as a quiet lookout for sunset watchers and late-night drives, TOPS has reintroduced itself with revitalized spaces, curated events and a stronger focus on local heritage and hospitality. From open-air concerts to cultural showcases and food pop-ups, TOPS is becoming a hub for both leisure and community gathering while still offering that unbeatable view of the city.
Harbour City Dimsum House Co. Inc.
For over three decades, Harbour City Dimsum House Co. Inc. has been the standard for dim sum dining in Cebu. The homegrown company behind beloved brands like Dimsum Break, Harbour City and Ding Qua Qua has built a loyal following by offering quick, flavorful Cantonese fare served with the warmth of Filipino hospitality. Among its most exciting moves is the debut of Dai Pai Dong, a contemporary open-kitchen concept under the Harbour City brand that reimagines the classic Hong Kong street-side eatery for today’s mall diners. Through sustained growth, culinary consistency and continued innovation, Harbour City Dimsum House Co. Inc. affirms its place as a pillar of Cebu’s food industry.
Skin 911
Skin 911 has steadily grown from a single clinic into a widely recognized name in skin and facial care across the Visayas and Mindanao. What began as a neighborhood aesthetic center in Cebu has since expanded into a franchise network, with over 100 branches to date. This growth is anchored in its commitment to professionalizing the skincare industry — offering affordable, accessible services while building a brand that prioritizes safety, training and consistency. Skin 911 has empowered local entrepreneurs, especially women, to establish their own clinics under a trusted name. With licensed medical professionals and standardized protocols, Skin 911 has become a go-to brand for everyday skincare needs in the region.
Nonki Japanese Restaurant
Established in 2005, Nonki Japanese Restaurant has become a go-to for Cebuanos craving authentic Japanese cuisine served with quiet consistency. But in a market where innovation often defines relevance, Nonki has found a way to delight loyal patrons while catching the eye of a younger crowd. Its Sushi Station concept restaurant at JMall marries novelty and efficiency by using an automated food train to deliver dishes directly to diners. Inspired by Japanese kaiten sushi culture, the system adds a fun, tech-savvy layer to the dining experience without compromising on quality. This clever twist reflects how Nonki continues to evolve while honoring its roots in genuine Japanese culinary traditions.
UA (Underground Apparel)
From its beginnings as a local streetwear passion project, UA has evolved into a standout label rooted in Cebu’s growing fashion scene. UA does it differently by sourcing fabrics like French Terry and Plains, then shaping each piece in-house from stitch to finish. This focus on craftsmanship allows the brand to retain control over quality while maintaining a distinctly local character. Even as UA grows its presence through international collaborations and digital reach, the brand continues to operate from Cebu, turning the island into both a workshop and a launchpad for global relevance.