The G icon's new home in Mactan

CEBU, Philippines – This restaurant’s claim to fame is having come up with an iconic dining haven that specializes in continental classic Baltic cuisine in an urbanized setting. The success of its first outlet brought forth two more replicas to cater to a greater number of food enthusiasts, the latest addition of which even crossed city boundaries.

The Gustavian Restaurant & Delicatessen’s newest expansion in Marina Mall, Mactan, has exciting dishes in store for foodies of the north. CEO Robert Lilja’s plan is to innovate and create an improved menu with bestsellers still in the list and additions of the old-time favorites cooked with a twist. Banilad and Ayala Center Cebu outlets’ saleable creations are still on the Good Diet Menu – choices that are healthy and of right size servings. The best part is: the menu gets an overhaul every week, so expect to indulge in a weekly gastronomic treat.

Salads and appetizers are all good for sharing. The Napoleon Salad, a combination of mixed Mesclun greens, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted vegetables, walnuts and watermelon with Balsamic vinaigrette as dressing, is a feast because of the lavish ingredients. The Clam Chowder with Smoked Salmon Tostada, Cream of Tomato Soup with Herb Croutons and Cream of Wild Mushroom Soup with Pesto Toast are available either in full or half servings. 

For Lenten season offerings, there’s the Salmon Steak, Seafood Skewer (prawn, sole and mussel) with Mango Caper Salsa and Cream Dory (salted Caper with cream and white wine). Yes, the Gustavian Mactan branch still carries the tradition of having the best steak choices such as Chateaubriand Steak with Bearnaise Sauce (a clear butter and egg yolk mixture) and Beef Steak and Onions with Hollandaise Gravy.

Since The Gustavian bakes its own pasties and breads, sandwiches are one of their specialties, too. The Double Decker Selection is an international choice sandwich where roast beef and Swiss cheese/bacon, lettuce and tomato or Reuben with pickled cabbage/Pastani and cheese are tucked in a wheat bread combo. Of course, desserts are something to look forward to. The Chocolate Moist Cake is to die for, alongside the Brownies with Nuts and Pralines – all concocted by skilled chefs.

The Gustavian Marina Mall has a floor area that can host 48 guests including the al fresco dining area. Like any other Gustavian outlet, delis are also available, Call 3413093 for reservations because finally the G icon is in Mactan! Other branches are in Paseo Saturnino, Maria Luisa Road, Banilad and at the Ayala Center Cebu’s The Terraces.