

Dubbed as a six-star establishment, NuSTAR Hotel is the first ultra-luxury hotel in town. Opening day had no less than DOT Secretary Christina Frasco as guest of honor. She lauded the Robinson’s/NuSTAR group for helping boost local tourism, and expressed confidence in Cebu tourism’s connectivity and sustainability. Meanwhile NuStar COO Sean Knights proudly said, “This hotel brings our brand to life — where world-class hospitality meets authentic Cebuano warmth.”
The 26-story NuSTAR has 223 rooms and boasts of floor-to-ceiling windows which offer either a view of the sea or the city. What’s more guests enjoy personalized service through the NuSTAR butler. Yes, every detail is expertly handled for a seamless stay. Man in charge is Roel Constantino, GM for Hotels of NuSTAR Resort.
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Hawker Chan, the Singapore street food brand that has earned a Michelin Star for its Soya Sauce Chicken has opened its second restaurant in Cebu (the first is in SM Seaside). Located in Tops up the windy Busay hills, the resto has a view of the city and its environs. Hawker Chan is known for its innovative approach to traditional Singaporean cuisine.
Present for the blessing and inauguration were Eric and Kidd Dee whose family owns the Philippine franchise of the restaurant. They shared that with this latest addition, there are now 21 Hawker Chan outlets in the country. At the helm of the Cebu branches is Isa Neri who happily announced that they have launched “group feasts” for barkadas, families and groups. There are four group feasts to choose from, each featuring a carefully curated selection of bestsellers. Value for money and definitely worth a try!
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The newest Cafe Laguna in town is located at the recently added wing of SM City. Known as a byword in Filipino cuisine, the restaurant has given birth to Laguna Garden Cafe and Parilya, both well-loved Filipino restaurants, as well as Ulli’s and Lemon Grass which specializes in other Asian food.
Opening day found Cafe Laguna founder Lita Urbina along with her children and grandchildren welcoming lunch guests. She proudly shared that some of her grandchildren are now actively involved in the running of the restaurants. Indeed the Cafe Laguna Group of Companies are in good hands.