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There’s something that feels indulgent about ordering a cocktail—and no, I’m not talking about the Rum and Cokes that you down on Saturday nights at dive bars to get drunk. Mixing cocktails, as it turns out, is a little bit of an art and science. There’s a certain combination of the right, premium ingredients that brings out the flavors of a spirit, creating one that pleases your taste buds as much as it gives you a good buzz.
Thankfully, Cebu’s cocktail scene has changed. There’s a continuously growing number of restaurants that offer specialty cocktails, bringing their own spins to classic concoctions, or coming up with something entirely new. For one, Jan Rodriguez at The Weekend presents some incredibly delicious takes on the Gin & Tonic that make you feel like you’ve never actually had a real one before.
But sometimes, more than just the taste, cocktails can create a feeling, whether it’s boosting your energy, encouraging conversation, or calming you down. It can even complete an experience—after all, what would an afternoon at the beach be without a refreshing glass of your preferred poison? Aside from the aforementioned mixes at The Weekend, here are my favorite drinks in the city.

photography by Gia Mayola
Perched on top of Mactan’s blue waters, the Ibiza Beach Club is one of the best spots to enjoy a drink on a sunny afternoon. I particularly enjoy the Caipimara—vodka mixed with passionfruit and lime juice, with some brown sugar. Fruity and sweet, it’s the kind of summer refreshment to enjoy while lounging on one of Ibiza’s net beds.
Of course, Ibiza offers a number of other delicious mixes to enjoy. There’s the Ibiza Sour and Ibiza Mojito, elevated versions of the classics. Something even fruitier is the Sangria, with chunks of fruit that add another level of flavor to the drink.
Movenpick Hotel & Resort, Punta Engano,
Mactan Island
Open from 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM on
Mondays to Thursdays, and 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM on
Fridays to Sundays

photography by Gia Mayola
When Enye opened at Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan, locals were excited to sample Chef Chele Gonzales’ modern Spanish cuisine. A pleasant surprise, though, were the offering of handcrafted cocktails that could be enjoyed on their own for happy hour, or to complement the dishes served.
Enye has a number of signature cocktails, but we have to highlight the Mantegalo Seco. Especially popular during the restaurant’s launch, the cocktail has chardonnay, lime, brown sugar, pineapple and cachaca, a spirit made from sugarcane. It’s a play on sweet and sour flavors that make for a refreshing afternoon drink.
Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan,
Seascapes Resort Town, Mactan Island
Open from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM every day

photography by Tristan Laput
Definitely with its own flair, the Burning Bush gets plus points for presentation. The drink is served with a burning rosemary twig, its smoke enclosed under a rounded glass that is removed upon serving. The rosemary scent is a nice prelude to its flavors—single malt whiskey and Makers Mark bourbon complemented with ginger liquer, fig syrup, Yoichi salinated herb, and lemon.
Aside from the Burning Bush, Morals & Malice offers a number of other delicious cocktails that were created by Manila-based mixologist Kalel Demetrio. It’s the kind of drink that best kicks off a night on the town.
The Tinder Box, Gov. M. Cuenco Avenue,
Kasambagan, Cebu City
Open from 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM on
Mondays to Thursdays, and 4:00 PM to
2:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays

photography by Kim Mercado
I have to admit, part of this cocktail’s appeal is its cheeky pun of a name. In fact, The Pig & Palm’s cocktail list, which was crafted by The Social Company’s bar executive Jamie Jones, reads like a wordplay exercise: Rum DMC, Coff Medicine, Notorious P.I.G, among others.
The Dill or No Dill is made with gin, lemon juice, elderflower cordial, cucumber dill and smoked salt. It’s one of those selections whose popularity boils down to personal preference; some people I know find the dill too strong for their liking. As for me, I love the sort of herby taste it brings to the cocktail, and it’s a light, refreshing one to enjoy with dinner.
MSY Tower, Pescador Road, Cebu
Business Park, Cebu City
Open from 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM on
Sundays, Tuesdays to Thursdays, and 11:00AM to 2:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays

photography by Tristan Laput
If you haven’t already noticed based on my choices, I have a preference for the sweet and citrusy.
Another drink that brings that together wonderfully is the LG Campbell Punch from Circa 1900. The old-fashioned house is the perfect place to enjoy this summery cocktail, which is made with dark rum, fresh calamansi juice and coconut sugar. Enjoy with one of Circa’s delicious starters: the Ube Ravioli with Shredded Pork Lechon and Apple, or the Crispy Spice and Pepper Squid are great savory choices that counter the sweetness.
Sanjercas Ville Extension Road, Gorordo
Avenue, Lahug, Cebu City
Open from 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM every day
“All You Need Is Love: A Tribute to The Beatles” is a dance and music production starring the talented and highly acclaimed Ibiza Show Team in various repertoires by the iconic British band from their glory days.

“This is a wonderful addition to our line-up of themed shows such as ‘Latin Night’, ‘At The Movies,’ ‘Retro Disco’, ‘Retro Pop’ and ‘Swing and Fling’ — all designed as a visual treat for audience of different ages,” shares Mr. Jeryl Tio, Food and Beverage Manager.

“Ibiza Beach Club is the name that commands the beat of Mactan’s nightlife. This is where lifestyle dining and entertainment come together in perfect harmony,” adds Mr. Tio. “Aside from the menu of tapas, bar chows and drinks, and its Balearic-inspired, signature 15-course grill, Ibiza Beach Club is widely known for its themed shows featuring Cebu’s own talents, performing to different beats and rhythms. We make sure to indulge everyone in a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience. These shows make a good company to your dinner experience, with live performances that’ll make you feel like cruising and grooving with every beat and bite.”
Ibiza Beach Club is open daily from 4.00 pm until midnight. Happy Hour is set at 4.00 pm to 6.00 pm, whilst dinner is served from 6.30 pm to 10.30 pm.
For more information and for table reservations, please call +63 32 492 7777 or email ibizabeachclub.cebu@movenpick.com. Visit the webpage at http://bit.ly/IbizaTributetotheBeatles and follow @ibizacebu on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook for more u
]]>There’s something that feels indulgent about ordering a cocktail—and no, I’m not talking about the rum and Cokes that you down on Saturday nights at dive bars to get drunk. Mixing cocktails, as it turns out, is a little bit of an art and science. There’s a certain combination of the right, premium ingredients that brings out the flavors of a spirit, creating one that pleases your taste buds as much as it gives you a good buzz.
Thankfully, Cebu’s cocktail scene has changed. There’s a continuously growing number of restaurants that offer specialty cocktails, bringing their own spins to classic concoctions, or coming up with something entirely new. For one, Jan Rodriguez at The Weekend presents some incredibly delicious takes on the Gin & Tonic that make you feel like you’ve never actually had a real one before.
But sometimes, more than just the taste, cocktails can create a feeling, whether it’s boosting your energy, encouraging conversation, or calming you down. It can even complete an experience–after all, what would an afternoon at the beach be without a refreshing glass of your preferred poison? Aside from the aforementioned mixes at The Weekend, here are my favorite drinks in the city.
Check out the gallery to know more!
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Ibiza Beach Club is kick-starting the summer with the return of DJ Daiki and the Electro Beach Festival. This Saturday, March 10, soak up the last of the sun’s rays, before grabbing a drink and joining the party.
Other acts include Rayz, Mike, DJ Kenji, Luv, Taka, Nova, Otoha and Bright Side.
Don’t want to miss out on a great party? We’re doing a giveaway on our Facebook page. One lucky winner gets the chance to party along with three of his friends. Hurry and check it out now!
Ibiza Beach Club, Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu, Punta Engaño Rd, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu
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Due to the success of its first run, Ibiza Beach Club’s hip hop beach party makes a splashing comeback this Saturday, September 9, with another set of international talents.
Dubbed as the “Bay Area Takeover 2”, this beach spin-off party, in partnership with event organizer Mr. Ed Roberson, brings together celebrated music artists from San Francisco, DJ Noodles and P-Lo, to serve up a fantastic mix of hip hop and R&B beats. From San Francisco to Los Angeles, Noodles brings a wide range and youthful mix of R&B classics, mixed with modern day rap and integrated with an electronic sound. She has toured different cities to make special appearances in various parties and events.
A rapper and producer, P-Lo is a leading figure in the Bay Area music scene. Widely popular for his unique, consistent and quality level of production, he has jumped from appearing in music events to producing and collaborating with countless other artists in and outside the Bay.
The Philippines’ own DJ Short and DJ Gino V also join the entertainment line-up, along with a tropical fashion show by Solti Activewear. The fun begins at 4.00 pm, all the way to 12.00 am.
For tickets and table reservations, contact Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu at +63 32 492 7777 or email ibizabeachclub.cebu@movenpick.com.
]]>On the 27th of June, Ibiza Beach Club in partnership with event organizer Mr. Ed Robinson, brings together the best Hip Hop and RnB DHs for a beach spin-off party. ”Bay Area Take Over” will house celebrated DJs from San Francisco Bay Area for a night to remember.

Leading the line-up is DJ E-Rock, one of the most celebrated DJs in the United States, he is a staple in premiere night scenes and clubs in San Francisco and Las Vegas.

DJ Romeo Reyes, a resident DJ at the one of the top three nightclubs in the world, Marquee Nightclub in Las Vegas will also showcase his tunes. He has toured across the globe and performed in countries such as Japan, Canada and Taiwan.

On the other hand, Mark West has worked with Grammy-nominated production groups. In between his residencies, DJ Mark has played for various nightclubs in the world, including Japan, Korea, Hawaii and key cities in the United States.

DJ Miles Medina is said to be one of the fastest-growing producer-talents in the West Coast. He came into the production scene relatively unknown at the beginning of 2013 and finished strong with two extremely well-received releases.

Meanwhile, Agent Smith has a following spanning outside of Hollywood, as he has successfully toured the East Coast, Dominican Republic, Canada and Australia. He is now a fixture not only in America but also in Asia, having held residencies in Shanghai, Tokyo, Taipei, Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Los Angeles.
Finally, rounding up the list is Cebu’s own DJ Short.
Tickets are sold at only PHP 600 net per person. But luckily, we are running a giveaway for our lucky Zee Lifestyle readers.
To enter:
Good luck!
My sentiments, of course, don’t diminish the quality of the celebrations, but I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one who feels the same way. Luckily, the Queen City offers a lot of things to do besides partying it up on the streets. Here are some suggestions for when you don’t want to Sinulog this year, whether you just want to avoid the crowds or want a change in scenery.
Cebu is home to a number of beautiful islands, and while on a normal day you’d be competing against eager tourists, Sinulog would be the perfect time to have them all to yourselves (or, okay, at least less people). We highly recommend Nalusuan, Pandanon and Olango Island for their turquoise waters. If you’d like to go a little farther, Sumilon Island in Oslob is worth the two hour trip.
Islands Banca Cruises | Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort
A relatively new attraction, canyoneering in Badian has drawn quite the crowds during peak season. While there’s an influx of tourists in town for Sinulog, you might want to take advantage of everyone hitting the streets instead on Sunday to have your own canyoneering adventure. Drive two hours south to the town of Barili and find your way to Barangay Matutinao.
Cebu takes pride in having beaches 30 minutes away from the city, and while realistically it’s at least an hour because of the traffic, the fact remains you don’t actually have to go far to find yourself at sea. Real estate developer recently opened the Mactan Newtown Beach (née Portofino) to the public, while those more inclined to resorts would love Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa and Movenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu.
Shangri-La is offering a special rate of Php 2,080 nett for lunch buffet for two at Tides on January 14-15, while Movenpick has their Sinulog Festive buffets on Sinulog Friday (dinner) and Sinulog Sunday (brunch) for Php 1,900 nett per person. There will also be cultural shows throughout the hotel that weekend, while Ibiza Beach Club’s cocktail of the month, Fizz Senor, is a tribute to the festivities.
Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa | Movenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu
Besides beaches, did you know Cebu has a lot of gorgeous waterfalls also? They may not be as majestic as the more famous ones throughout the country, but they’re breathtaking nonetheless. Head down to the town of Alegria in Cebu for Cambais Falls and Cancalanog Falls, both of which are sure to thrill adventure-seekers, or to the more popular Kawasan Falls in Badian.
Read more:
When you’re not really inclined to bodies of water, Cebu also has a variety of mountains worth climbing. The most famous one is Dalaguete’s Osmena Peak, which resembles the iconic Chocolate Hills of Bohol and gives enviable views of Badian, Pescador and Negros. Other worthwhile peaks include Mount Manunggal in Balamban and Kabankaya in Catmon.
Read more:
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All year long, there’s been a buzz about Manny O’s unique dining and entertaining concept Ibiza Beach Club making its way to the Capital. Finally, just as 2016 is wrapping up, we can break the news that yes, Ibiza is all set to open its doors at Manila’s hottest business and lifestyle district, Bonifacio Global City.
Here are all the reasons we’re excited for it:
The 4,000-sqm Ibiza BGC is situated at the 6th level of the new W City Centre, a massive 29-storey office tower sitting on half a hectare property, strategically located along 7th Avenue, right next to Bonifacio High Street. Within walking distance to the high-end Central Plaza Mall, the new Shangri-La at the Fort, residential towers, hotels, parks and shopping areas.
Combining the elements of ambience and music, entertainment and dining, this establishment is set to impress and delight. Aside from its signature DNA and spectacular view of the landscaped greenery and Manila cityscape, Ibiza BGC also takes its charm from its sophisticated and stylised sections, complete with water features surrounding plush seats, enticing lounges, exceptional Centre Stage and the First Class dining section. What is dubbed as the Ferrari of sound equipment in the industry, Ibiza BGC is powered by D & B Audiotechnik.
Amongst those who have visited the original, Ibiza Beach Club in Cebu has gained a reputation for serving a variety of unlimited grilled meat and seafood choices through the Balearic-inspired, signature 15-course grill. For those willing to plunge into a hearty feast, the servings are generous and vast – Filet Mignon, Angus Rib-Eye Steak, Baby Back Ribs, Ostrich Meat, New Zealand Lamb, buttery Rock Lobsters or Salmon, Tiger Prawns, Cuttlefish, Chicken, Crispy Pork Belly and Beef Short Ribs, to name a few.
Ibiza BGC brings this popular and well-lauded epicurean delight to your table, when it opens both for lunch and dinner at an introductory price of PHP 2,500+. They can also add on PHP 600+ for an unlimited serving of award-winning Manny O. Wines.
Spoiling everyone further with an array of diverse choices, the restaurant also offers an A La Carte and Tapas Menu featuring house-prepared charcuterie, Bruschettas, Jamon Serrano, Gambas, imported cheeses, a selection of salads and starters, the Eivissa Paella, Seafood Marinara, premium steaks and the Manny O. Signature Wagyu Burger, – best paired with signature cocktails, such as the Ibiza Sour, or featured wines. Cakes, pastries and the all-time favourite collection of Mövenpick ice cream from Switzerland round off the feast.
Ibiza Beach Club is the name that has commanded the beat of Mactan’s night scene for almost four years. The restaurant’s standard quality of entertainment and themed shows is one that has been given great reviews and applauded by discerning audiences – a cross section from visiting tourists to celebrities and VIPs.
Ibiza Beach Club BGC will also offer an entertainment extravaganza that includes world-class talents, a touch of whimsy and a dash of audience participation. The musical productions are a must-see spectacle for guests of all ages. The restaurant showcases nightly performances by the Ibiza Beach Club Show Team, which is composed of budding Filipino artists, featuring a 45-minute visual treat with live singing and dancing to retro pop, disco and Latin music, as well as Broadway and movie musical sequences alongside daring exhibitions. This segment is sure to get everyone grooving and belting to every beat, as guests loosen up and get themselves in the mood for fun. (with PR)
Ibiza BGC opens December 2016
]]>Set a date with your gal pals for a Wednesday wind down as Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu launches its weekly Ladies’ Night at Ibiza Beach Club. Beginning 19 October 2016, from 4.00 pm to 12.00 am, Cebu’s premier dining, entertainment and party establishment will host the belles with a treat of dance, entertainment and drinks.
Every Wednesday, ladies get complimentary passes to Ibiza Beach Club, plus two drinks on the house. The fun begins with sunset sessions from 4.00 pm to 6.00 pm, the golden hours when you can still get a good tan as you sip some refreshments, relax to cool beats, chill out and take snaps along the net pods.
Come dinner time, ladies are welcome to dine in their resort chic outfit or swimsuit, socialise between sips and nibbles, and take a cool dip in the outdoor pool. The indoor space, called the Conservatory, offers a more exclusive feel to your all-girl dinner date, complemented with spectacular ocean views. Sit and “meat” through dinner, either with tapas served à la carte or the Balearic-inspired signature 15-course grill, which is best paired with a variety of award-winning Manny O. wines.
The highlight of the evening is the nightly performances by the Ibiza show team, featuring an hour of visual treat with live singing and dancing to retro pop, disco and Latin music, as well as movie musical sequences alongside daring fire exhibitions. The segment is sure to get the girls grooving and belting to every beat.
For the official launch on 19 October, the hotel will be hosting a fashion event from 5.00 pm to 6.00 pm, featuring creations by SOLTI Active Wear and seaside beats by celebrity DJ, Divine Maitland-Smith.
SOLTI Active Wear is a home-grown brand from Cebu that promotes sustainable lifestyle through an earth-conscious swim line made out of recycled fabrics that were cast aside by big manufacturers.
MÖVENPICK HOTEL MACTAN ISLAND CEBU
Punta Engaño Road, Mactan Island
6332. 492 7777 | e-mail
The biggest dance music event in Mactan makes a splashing comeback to open the month of October. Taking the world-class nightlife outdoors, Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu’s Ibiza Beach Club, known as the region’s most hip and happening venue for lifestyle dining and high-energy entertainment, is staging another one of its successful Electro Beach Festival, now also dubbed as The White Party.

Set to happen on 1 October 2016, Saturday, the electronic dance music event is expected to gather about 1,000 party-philes from 3.00 pm to 11.00 pm. Comparable to the previous EDM parties, this event is projected to bring not only new excitement amongst locals and visiting guests, but also significant attention to Mactan island as a party and leisure destination in Cebu.
Renowned Japanese DJ, Daiki Wakabayashi, returns to Cebu for this event, which will showcase back-to-back sets of high octane beats by other international DJs on deck, such as Tora, OGaMixxX, Shibuchin, Kamiyama Seigo, Toshiki and Cookie. The Ibiza show team will also take centre stage with some of their daring fire exhibitions to thrill the crowd.
Tickets are sold at an early bird rate of PHP 600 nett per person. Regular rate of PHP 1,000 nett per person applies for tickets bought on the day of the event.

Beach party (Photo courtesy of Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu)
Guests and urbanites can also make the most of their visit to the island by taking advantage of the hotel’s Day Use + Beach Party package, offered exclusively on 1 October 2016. Priced at only PHP 1,200 nett per person, guests get to enjoy complimentary use of the hotel’s swimming pool, beach and gym, as well as receive a beach party pass.
The Electro Beach Festival is hosted by Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu and Ibiza Beach Club, in partnership with Cebu.20z.
For enquiries or reservations, please call +63 32 799 1111, +63 32 492 777 or visit the website at www.movenpick.com/cebu.
MÖVENPICK HOTEL MACTAN ISLAND CEBU
Punta Engaño Road, Lapu-Lapu City
6332. 799 1111 | Facebook | Instagram