Opens 4th Cebu branch: Italian resto chain steps up expansion

CEBU, Philippines — Cibo, the Manila-based Italian restaurant group founded by the late award-winning chef Margarita Forés, is accelerating its nationwide expansion with the launch of its fourth branch in Cebu—signaling renewed investor confidence in the region’s rapidly evolving and upscale food and beverage market.

“We’re continuing to expand. We’re on our fourth branch in Cebu and the response has been great,” said Mercedes Forés, Cibo’s chief operating officer.

The restaurant, now run by the second generation led by Mercedes, is known for its “real modern Italian” concept.

It has recorded strong performance in Cebu, which has emerged as one of the Philippines’ most dynamic dining destinations.

Cebu’s expanding middle class, influx of digital professionals, and post-pandemic tourism rebound have combined to create fertile ground for elevated casual dining and international culinary brands.

Cibo’s Cebu portfolio now includes two outlets at Ayala Center Cebu, one at SM Seaside City, and the newly opened branch at SM City Cebu. The city was also the company’s second expansion site in the Visayas after Bacolod. All locations are fully company-owned, with no plans for franchising.

Forés said the brand’s Cebu stores have drawn steady patronage from families, millennials, and Gen Z diners seeking authentic yet contemporary Italian fare. “Families are dining out together again, and younger customers are discovering modern Italian dishes,” she added.

Cebu’s restaurant scene has grown increasingly competitive, fueled by the region’s economic diversification and the rise of nearby growth hubs such as Mandaue and Lapu-Lapu.

Industry analysts see sustained demand for quality dining concepts as mixed-use developments and tourism zones continue to expand.

Amid this evolving landscape, Forés said Cibo remains focused on innovation and consistency.

“We aim to keep Italian food interesting,” she said, adding that the brand intends to deepen its presence in key urban centers outside Metro Manila as part of its long-term growth strategy.