Cafe Mezzo: A Taste of Culinary Excellence

If you’re looking for a restaurant in Cebu that combines great taste, creative dishes, and reasonable prices, Cafe Mezzo at Mezzo Hotel, led by Chef Berkley Ng, is an ideal choice. Known for its inviting ambiance and diverse menu crafted under Chef Ng’s expertise, Cafe Mezzo offers a memorable dining experience that both locals and travelers love. Here’s a look at some of their must-try dishes, featuring everything from hearty main courses to flavorful appetizers and comforting pasta.

Main Dishes

1. Beef Gremolata Stew

Cafe Mezzo’s Beef Gremolata Stew is a standout for rich, savory flavors, featuring tender, slow-cooked beef topped with a bright gremolata of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon zest. Each bite melts in your mouth, offering comforting, gourmet taste at an affordable price.

2. Amara Chicken

Another must-try main dish, the Amara Chicken, showcases the chef’s ability to elevate simple ingredients into something extraordinary. This dish features perfectly grilled chicken served with a signature sauce that’s both tangy and subtly sweet. Accompanied by well-seasoned vegetables and a side of rice, the Amara Chicken is hearty enough to satisfy but light enough to leave room for dessert. The affordability of this dish makes it a popular choice among diners, who appreciate both its flavor and price point.

Appetizers

1. Mesclun Salad

For a fresh start to your meal, the Mesclun Salad is an excellent choice. A mix of leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and other seasonal vegetables, this salad is lightly dressed to enhance its natural flavors. It’s a refreshing appetizer that pairs well with any main course and is perfect for diners seeking a light, health-conscious option before indulging in richer flavors.

2. Gambas Al Ajillo

If you prefer something with a bit more zest, the Gambas Al Ajillo is an appetizer that delivers. This dish features juicy shrimp sautéed in olive oil with garlic and chili, offering a warm and slightly spicy start to your meal. Each bite is packed with a bold, garlicky flavor that seafood lovers will adore. The Gambas Al Ajillo is a sophisticated yet affordable choice, adding a touch of Spanish influence to your Cafe Mezzo experience.

Pasta

Pasta Bolognese

For pasta lovers, Cafe Mezzo’s Pasta Bolognese offers a comforting and satisfying choice. Made with a rich tomato-based sauce simmered with ground meat, onions, and herbs, this dish is a classic Italian favorite with a local twist. The sauce clings to al dente pasta, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Like the other dishes on Cafe Mezzo’s menu, the Pasta Bolognese is offered at a reasonable price, making it a go-to choice for diners who want something delicious yet affordable.

Affordability and Overall Experience

One of the best things about Cafe Mezzo is its ability to deliver gourmet-quality food at prices that won’t stretch your budget. Despite the premium taste and presentation of dishes like the Beef Gremolata Stew and Gambas Al Ajillo, the menu is designed to be accessible to a wide range of diners. The ambiance of Cafe Mezzo further enhances the experience; with its warm lighting, elegant decor, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s a perfect setting for everything from casual lunches to business dinners.

Cafe Mezzo has truly set a high standard for dining in Cebu, offering a unique mix of international and local flavors at an exceptional value. Whether you’re craving a flavorful stew, a refreshing salad, or a classic pasta dish, Cafe Mezzo promises a satisfying meal that combines taste, quality, and affordability.