A Delightful Dining Experience at Sungka Native Restaurant: Where Food Meets Nature

If you're looking for a unique and memorable dining experience in Cebu, **Sungka Native Restaurant** should definitely be on your list. Tucked in the heart of **Basak, Lapu-Lapu City**, this native-themed restaurant offers not only mouthwatering Filipino dishes but also a charming, nature-inspired ambiance that makes every meal feel like a special occasion.

Our Order: A Feast for the Senses

We recently visited **Sungka Native Restaurant** to celebrate a very special occasion—**Rain's birthday**—and it turned out to be a delightful culinary adventure! Here's what we ordered:

- 🐟 **Seafood Platter** – A generous serving of grilled and fried seafood favorites including shrimp, fish, and squid, perfect for sharing.  

- 🍢 **Pork BBQ** – Tender, flavorful skewers grilled to perfection.  

- 🐠 **Fish Tinola** – A comforting soup with fish, green papaya, and leafy greens served hot and brimming with home-cooked goodness.  

- 🍚 **Two Platter Rice** – Plenty enough for the whole group.  

- 🍹 **Pitcher of Iced Tea and Lemonade** – Refreshing drinks that complemented our meals.  

- 🎂 **A Slice of Cake** – For our birthday girl, Rain, which made the celebration even sweeter.

Unique Features: Dining with the Koi

What truly sets **Sungka Native Restaurant** apart is its **one-of-a-kind dining setup**. The wooden dining tables are surrounded by a **large koi fish pond**, giving diners a serene, zen-like atmosphere. Watching the koi fish swim around as you enjoy your food adds a peaceful and interactive element to the dining experience. Kids and adults alike are amazed by the sheer size and colors of these koi!

Must-Try: The Famous Bakasi Meals

While we didn’t get to try it this time, one of Sungka’s **signature dishes is their Bakasi meal**—a local delicacy made from eel that’s popular in the coastal areas of Cebu. It’s a must-try if you’re feeling adventurous or if you want to experience authentic Cebuano cuisine.

Location and Business Hours

📍 **Sungka Native Restaurant** is located at **Sitio Soong, Brgy. Mactan, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu**, just a few minutes from major resorts and the Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

🕒 **Business Hours**:  

Monday to Sunday – **10:00 AM to 10:00 PM**

Whether you're dropping by for lunch or looking to unwind after a long day, the restaurant is open daily and ready to serve.

Final Thoughts and Rating

Our overall dining experience at **Sungka Native Restaurant** was nothing short of delightful. From the friendly staff, beautifully presented meals, and tranquil pond setting to the surprise birthday cake for Rain, it was a celebration to remember.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ **Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars**  

✅ **Food** – 4.5  

✅ **Ambiance** – 5.0  

✅ **Service** – 4.7  

✅ **Value for Money** – 4.6

If you’re looking for a place where you can enjoy great food while being surrounded by nature and a touch of Filipino tradition, Sungka Native Restaurant should be on top of your list. It's perfect for families, groups, or even quiet lunch dates.

Looking for a great way to bond with the family on a special occasion? A movie night at SM Cinema Cebu City might be the perfect idea! Last Friday night, we took our kids out for a movie as part of my husband’s birthday celebration, and it was an experience worth sharing.

Movie Night: Captain America – Brave New World

We watched Captain America: Brave New World at 8:45 PM, excited to see how Sam Wilson takes on the mantle of Captain America in this latest installment. The movie had its fair share of action, thrilling sequences, and thought-provoking moments, but according to our kids, the villain in this film didn’t quite match the intensity of past Captain America villains. That was an interesting observation, and it sparked some fun debates among us after the movie.

A Cinema Experience with an Unexpected Twist

Everything was going smoothly—immersed in the movie, munching on our snacks—until something unexpected happened. Past halfway into the movie, the big screen suddenly went dark! Only the sound remained, and for a moment, we weren’t sure if this was part of the movie or a technical issue with the cinema’s display. It left us confused yet amused because nobody in the audience knew for sure! Despite the brief disruption, we still enjoyed the film and the time spent together.

The Weekend Crowd and Our Movie Snacks

As expected on a Friday night, the theater was quite full, especially the center section, which was nearly packed with fellow moviegoers. It's always nice to watch a movie in a lively atmosphere, especially when people react to exciting scenes in sync!

And of course, what’s a movie night without some delicious snacks? We indulged in:

• Terra fries from Potato Corner
• Three large popcorns with cheese, sour cream, and chili barbecue flavors
• Nestea iced tea and zero sugar Coke for drinks
• A small cup of rocky road ice cream for that sweet ending

It was the perfect combination of salty, sweet, and refreshing treats to keep us company throughout the film.

A Birthday Celebration to Remember

Celebrating my husband’s birthday this way made it extra special. Simple yet memorable, a family movie night is a great way to unwind and enjoy quality time together. Whether it’s a birthday, a weekend treat, or just a spontaneous plan, a night at the movies is always a fun choice for families.

So if you’re looking for a bonding activity for your next family celebration, consider heading to SM Cinema Cebu City, grabbing some snacks, and enjoying a blockbuster movie together. Who knows? You might even have a surprise moment in the theater just like we did!

Have you had a fun movie night experience with your family? Share your stories in the comments!

Exploring NASA Space Camp Turkey with the Philippine Robotics National Team

Last November 2024, before the official start of the World Robotics Olympiad 2024 in Izmir, Turkey, our team had the incredible opportunity to visit NASA Space Camp Turkey. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that left both the Philippine Robotics National Team and us parents amazed and inspired. Two of our sons were part of the delegation, along with coaches, national representatives, and fellow parents, all eager to explore the world of space science and astronaut training.

A Grand Welcome at NASA Space Camp Turkey

We arrived at the camp around 1 PM, and the moment we stepped in, we were warmly welcomed by the NASA Space Camp staff. They took us on an exciting tour of the facilities, introducing us to the incredible technology and hands-on learning experiences that make this camp one of the best space-themed educational programs in the world.

What’s Inside NASA Space Camp Turkey?

NASA Space Camp Turkey is designed to inspire young minds to explore space, technology, and robotics through immersive learning experiences. Here’s what we saw inside:

• Astronaut Training Simulators – Delegates got to try spacewalk simulators, the multi-axis trainer, and the 1/6 gravity chair, experiencing the sensation of being in space just like real astronauts!
• Mission Control Center – A state-of-the-art replica where students learned how real-life space missions are planned and executed.
• Mars Exploration Lab – The team had the chance to navigate a simulated Martian surface, using robotic arms and sensors.
• Rocket Building & Launching – Our young engineers constructed and launched their own rockets, learning about aerodynamics and propulsion in the process.
• Space Shuttle Mockup – A life-sized space shuttle interior where the participants got to role-play as astronauts and mission controllers.
• Planetarium & Space Science Museum – The immersive planetarium experience and exhibits about space exploration history truly captivated us all.

An Inspiring Opportunity for Young Innovators

As parents, witnessing our sons explore this one-of-a-kind learning camp was truly fulfilling. This experience not only expanded their knowledge in space science and robotics but also encouraged them to dream big and aim high. The limited slot encampment program at NASA Space Camp Turkey is offered to children from different countries by delegation, making it an exclusive opportunity for aspiring young scientists and engineers.

Join NASA Space Camp Turkey Next Year!

Every year, NASA Space Camp Turkey opens its doors to young tech enthusiasts worldwide. If you want to give your kids a techie space learning experience like no other, this is the camp to consider! Feel free to drop a message below if you're interested in letting your kids embark on this unforgettable journey into space exploration.

Our visit to NASA Space Camp Turkey was the perfect way to prepare and inspire the Philippine Robotics National Team before they took on the World Robotics Olympiad 2024. This experience reinforced their passion for innovation, proving that the future of space and robotics lies in the hands of the young minds we nurture today. 🚀🌌

A Delightful Lunch at Moon Café, Ayala Center Cebu

After running errands in Cebu City, my husband and I decided to have lunch at **Moon Café**, a well-known Mexican-inspired restobar located in **Ayala Center Cebu**. It was a quiet time of the day, with only one other group of two foreign diners sitting across from us. This gave us the perfect opportunity to enjoy a relaxing meal in a spacious and clean dining area with great service and delicious food.  

Our Food Experience  

We ordered two main dishes:  

- **Sizzling Sisig with Egg (₱250)** – A Filipino classic, this dish was served sizzling hot with the perfect balance of crispy pork, onions, and chili, topped with a fresh egg that blended beautifully when mixed. The flavors were bold, savory, and had just the right amount of spice.

To complete our meal, we paired these dishes with **two servings of plain rice** and refreshing drinks:  

- **Fresh Buko Shake (₱120)** – A creamy and naturally sweet coconut shake, perfect for cooling down on a hot afternoon.  

- **Green Mango Shake (₱120)** – This drink had the right balance of sourness and sweetness, making it a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of our main dishes.  

Ambiance & Service

The overall atmosphere of Moon Café was inviting. The restaurant is **spacious, clean, and has a laid-back vibe**, making it a great spot to enjoy a peaceful meal. The **staff were polite and attentive**, ensuring that we had everything we needed throughout our dining experience.  

Moon Café at Ayala Center Cebu is a great choice for those craving **Mexican cuisine** with a Filipino twist. The food is flavorful, well-prepared, and reasonably priced for its quality. With **excellent service and a comfortable dining environment**, we highly recommend it for a casual lunch or dinner. 

 Have you dined at Moon Café before? Share your experience in the comments below!

A 1D1N Stay at Meili Beach Resort, Alcoy, Cebu – A Mixed Experience

If you're looking for a beachfront getaway in Cebu, Meili Beach Resort in Alcoy might catch your eye. We booked our stay through Agoda and opted for two triple rooms with terraces for a short but relaxing 1-day, 1-night vacation. While the resort offers several great amenities, our experience was not entirely smooth. Here’s our honest review.

Accommodation & Check-in Experience

We arrived at Meili Beach Resort for a quick retreat, checking in at 2:00 PM as per their standard policy. Our accommodations were located in Room 15 & 16, both offering a cozy space with a terrace. However, we encountered an issue in Room 15—the comfort room’s door was not fully sealed at the floor line, and the wood was already rotten, allowing an unpleasant odor to spread throughout the room.

AGODA Booking - Meili Beach Resort

 

Resort Amenities & Facilities

Despite the setback, Meili Beach Resort does have several good facilities that cater to both relaxation and recreation:

• Swimming Pool – A well-maintained pool where guests can take a refreshing dip.

• Private White Sand Beach – A great spot for swimming and enjoying the ocean breeze.

• Basketball Court – A fun option for sports enthusiasts.

• Cottages & Playground – Perfect for families with kids.

• Resto Bar – Avenue foods and drinks.
• Rental Karaoke – For guests who love to sing and unwind.
• Reception Area – For checking in & out of the guests.

Dining Experience

One of the highlights of our stay was the breakfast. We ordered almost all their silog meals, except for the omelet, and each dish was delicious and well-served. The meals also came with complimentary hot and cold drinks—we chose coffee and pineapple juice, which were a great start to the day.

Beach & Leisure Activities

Before checking out at 12:00 NN, my husband, son, and I had a quick dip at the beach, taking in the beauty of Alcoy’s coastal waters. I also did a short beach yoga session, allowing me to stretch and refresh my body while enjoying the calming sea breeze.

Final Verdict

While Meili Beach Resort boasts wonderful amenities and a relaxing beachfront ambiance, the issue with our accommodation in Room 15 was a major downside. Their refusal to provide an alternative room despite our concern was disappointing. However, the friendly staff, delicious breakfast, and beautiful surroundings somewhat made up for the unpleasant experience.

Pros:

✅ Beautiful beachfront location ✅ Great resort facilities (pool, beach, basketball court, playground, karaoke rental) ✅ Delicious breakfast with complimentary drinks ✅ Free parking and WiFi

Cons:

❌ Poorly maintained comfort room in Room 15 ❌ Unpleasant odor issue that was not resolved ❌ Lack of proper customer service in handling room concerns

Would we stay here again? Maybe, but definitely not in Room 15 or any other Triple Room. If management improves their maintenance and customer service, Meili Beach Resort has the potential to be a great staycation spot in Alcoy.

Have you stayed at Meili Beach Resort? Share your experience in the comments below!

The morning started early with registration at the school’s Gymnasium, where we, along with the other families, lined up to check in. There was a palpable excitement in the air as we entered the venue, which was buzzing with energy from students and their family members. The event kicked off with a beautiful Holy Mass, setting a peaceful tone for the day.

Once the mass concluded, the Grade Level presentations began. Each grade level had prepared something special to share, and the performances did not disappoint! From lively dances to innovative skits, each group had its moment in the spotlight, showcasing the creativity and talent of the students. As parents and family members, we couldn’t help but smile with pride, watching our children and their peers shine.

By midday, we headed over to the Academic Building, where lunch was served for the Grade 8 students and their families. The school had prepared a spread that was both delicious and hearty, giving us a chance to relax and catch up with fellow parents while our children recharged for the afternoon’s activities.

As the day came to a close, Dr. Rachel Rica, the school’s director, delivered the closing remarks. Her words were a heartfelt reminder of how events like this bring the community together and celebrate not just the academic achievements of the students but also the strong bonds that make the school a truly special place.

A Flavorful Feast: Our Family Dining Experience at Lechoneria, SM Seaside Cebu City

Our family recently visited Lechoneria at SM Seaside Cebu City, eager to indulge in Cebu’s most iconic dish — lechon baboy. Known for its crispy skin and flavorful meat, lechon is a celebrated culinary delight, and we were excited to share this experience together. Here’s a detailed account of our dining adventure, from the sumptuous food to the welcoming atmosphere.

What We Ordered

For our main course, we chose 1 kilo of regular lechon baboy (roasted pig). Its perfectly crisped skin and tender, savory meat made it the star of our meal. The seasoning was well-balanced, and each bite was a delicious reminder of why Cebu lechon is renowned worldwide.

To complement our lechon, we ordered:

• Tinolang isda (fish soup) with tanigue — a comforting soup with tender fish slices and a flavorful broth.

• A rice platter — perfect for sharing, ensuring everyone had enough to accompany the rich flavors of the lechon and soup.

• A pitcher of iced tea — a refreshing beverage to balance the meal’s richness.

Ambiance and Atmosphere

Lechoneria offers a family-friendly and casual dining ambiance. The restaurant’s interiors feature a cozy yet modern décor with warm lighting and a rustic vibe that celebrates Cebu’s rich lechon tradition. The layout provides ample seating, and despite the busy Sinulog season, the space remained comfortable for our group of seven.

Staff and Service

The service at Lechoneria was commendable. The staff was friendly, attentive, and quick to accommodate our requests. From ensuring our table was well-set to serving our orders promptly, their professionalism added to the overall positive experience. They were also knowledgeable about the menu, happily explaining the different lechon varieties and house specialties.

Serving Sizes and Value for Money

The portions were generous. The 1-kilo lechon easily served all seven of us, with plenty to enjoy. The tinolang isda was flavorful and hearty, while the rice platter was abundant enough to satisfy everyone. The iced tea pitcher offered more than enough servings, making it a cost-effective choice for beverages.

Sinulog Festival Promo

During our visit, Lechoneria was running a special Sinulog promo, offering discounts and meal bundles that catered perfectly to families and large groups. Their festive promotions added value to our dining experience, making it a fantastic choice for those celebrating Cebu’s most vibrant festival.

Signature Meals

Lechoneria is best known for its signature lechon varieties, including:

• Spicy lechon for those who crave a bit of heat.
• Boneless lechon belly, a convenient option for lechon lovers.
• Specialty sauces that perfectly complement the roasted flavors.

Similar Restaurants to Explore

If you’re a lechon enthusiast, SM Seaside Cebu City and nearby areas offer other great dining spots:

• Rico’s Lechon — Famous for their spicy lechon.
• Zubuchon — Known for their meticulously prepared lechon.
• CNT Lechon — A long-standing favorite among locals.

Each of these restaurants offers a unique take on Cebu’s beloved roasted pig, making them worth a visit.

Conclusion

Our family dining experience at Lechoneria was delightful and memorable. The combination of delicious food, generous portions, attentive service, and festive ambiance made it a perfect choice for a hearty meal. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving Cebu’s best lechon, Lechoneria at SM Seaside Cebu City is a must-visit. We’ll definitely be back for more!