Singapore-based restobar opens first outlet in Cebu

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu’s upbeat sophisticated night-life and dining market has caught the interest of international restobar investors, the Singapore-based Tadcaster Hospitality for one.

Tadcaster Hospitality, an operator of different restobar and restaurant brands in Singapore and Australia opened its first Philippine outlet in Cebu--The Social, located at the new wing of Ayala Center Cebu.

In an interview with Tadcaster Hospitality chief executive officer  John Hatherly, he said the entry of The Social in Cebu will transform the lifestyle in the metropolis as it injects an international flavor to all day bar and lounge lifestyle with its industrial-chic feel.

"What we bring in here actually is unique compared to what is already existing. By day, The Social is an Australasian, European Café, serving rich salads, freshly made pizzas, classic comfort food, and delectable desserts. At night, it evolves into a lounge hub with music from the best local and international DJs. Ambient colors subtly move from bright and fresh during the day, to warm and inviting during the evening, accentuating key areas around the bar, while highlighting the different textures and patterns of the interiors," he said.

Before deciding to open in Cebu, they went around first to check on other establishments and to check on the market.

"We saw that there are many establishments already in Cebu and the lifestyle landscape is pretty much developed and ready for more concepts like ours," he added.

Cebu's rich tourism industry has provided more market for the establishments aside from the locals who now have developed a more "metropolis" lifestyle, Hatherly said.

"The Social is the brand we have developed specifically for the Philippines," said Hatherly adding that they will focus in Cebu first before looking at other expansion areas in the country.

In Singapore, as well as Australia, Hatherly said his establishments are employing Filipino staff and most (if not all) of them have distinct charm and command for good service. This is also one of the reasons why he decided to invest in the Philippines. (FREEMAN)