restaurants – CITY OF NAGA

City Congratulates Bigg’s on its 41 Years of Doing Business in Naga and Bicol

Web Master — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 00:40:38 +0000

Mayor Nelson Legacion warmly congratulated Bigg’s on its ongoing success during its 41st-anniversary celebration last January 18, 2024. He also recognized the meaningful impact the establishment has had on the community.

Bigg’s celebrates four decades of Serving Good Food and Great Fun not only in Naga but also in the Bicol region and other parts of the country. During the commemorative event, CEO and President Carlo B. Buenaflor shared the company’s ambitious vision of expanding to 300 stores within the next decade, outlining the strategic plans for achieving this remarkable milestone to its over 700 dedicated employees.

Bigg’s has evolved into an iconic presence throughout Bicol from its humble origins as a small take-out burger counter in Naga City. The journey from a modest beginning to a celebrated establishment exemplifies Bigg’s commitment to excellence, making it a cherished symbol of local food business success and delightful memories. (Charyl Anne Agao/ITPO)

A taste of Americana hits the streets of Naga | Weekend Burger

CEPPIO Naga — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 08:32:15 +0000

It’s quite rare to relive that nostalgic diner feel here in Naga. Though the diner aesthetic has been co-opted by Bigg’s Diner here in Bicol, sometimes you look for a different Americana vibe that’s a little bit more youthful than usual. This is when we came across this quaint burger shop along Magsaysay that makes you feel like the weekend every day: welcome to Weekend Burger.

Weekend Burger is a restaurant focused on the classic combo of burgers, fries, and milkshakes. This is no surprise. Even the interior of their shop is highly reminiscent of a diner. One of my coworkers in the office brought up Pop’s Chock’lit Shoppe, a fictional diner from Archie comics, and to the younger generation, the CW show Riverdale. And you know what we see the resemblance. The pink, vapor-wave walls and the neon lights bring out that vibe, especially at night.

But it’s not all about the aesthetic, the burgers are ridiculous. Like in a good way! Flame-grilled patties at a reasonably priced range, topped with ingredients that are unique to their style of burger. Cheeseburgers, smash burgers, even chicken sandwiches. You name it, they probably have it. The secret to a great burger is the quality ingredients used and the thought put into the preparation of it, and with Weekend Burger, it shows.

Even though they shine with their burgers, they also have sides that pair well with these greasy creations. Fries topped with melted cheese and bacon, nachos with a tangy cheese dip on the side. They even have rice meals if you are so inclined to have a filling lunch.

And of course, we can’t forget about the staple of any burger joint: the milkshake. It is so hard to get a proper milkshake. Like an actual milkshake, with chocolate ice cream and chocolate fudge as the main shake ingredients. Eat your heart out Shake Shack. Weekend Burger already has you beaten. And if this sweet treat isn’t more your style, try their alcoholic creations or maybe a coffee to cap your day off, featuring coffee from Haldao, a local coffee provider here in the city.

Weekend Burger is such a treat. Their food items are some of the usual fares, but they make it so well and each burger creation has personality with the taste to back it up. It is one of our favorites here in the office and we are so happy to put them up in the spotlight this week!

Weekend Burger is open every day. Mondays at 3:00 p.m. to 12 midnight and Tuesdays to Sunday at 3:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.

(Agnete Jonathan Noble, CEPPIO.)

The American dream is a plate full of ribs | American Ribs and Wings

CEPPIO Naga — Tue, 07 Feb 2023 07:00:46 +0000

Ribs are a true American staple. Though popular in the US, the dish actually dates itself back to its Caribbean and Spanish origins. When it was brought over to the US, the dish became synonymous with southern cuisine and is enjoyed by people all over the world. So it’s no wonder that even here in Naga, everyone is enthralled with ribs as a dish that is enjoyed by families and large gatherings. And where else to enjoy such a delectable experience than at American Ribs and Wings!

American Ribs and Wings have built themselves to be good at two major food groups. Pork ribs and chicken wings. Their name wouldn’t make any sense if that wasn’t the case. Their ribs are smoky and saucy! Their chicken? A crispy and flavorful affair. Pick one strip, two strips, or an unlimited number of them. Whichever one you pick, we won’t judge! They are absolutely addicting to munch on!

If ribs and wings aren’t your thing, they also have other American favorites. A Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich? Yes please! A flame-grilled burger and a savory spaghetti for the young ones are also on the menu. But trust us when we say that you have to try the wings. It is definitely a must try!

American Ribs and Wings is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and is located at La Piazza, Magsaysay Avenue, Naga City.

(Agnete Jonathan Noble, CEPPIO.)

The cold weather calls for something warm and filling | JCJ Food Hub

CEPPIO Naga — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 08:30:03 +0000

There is nothing better than a hot bowl of soup to warm up. The cold weather pairs well with warm and filling food and so if cuddling up with someone is out of the question, then why not try having a bowl of Bulalo at JCJ Food Hub!

We know that Kinalas is one of the more well known soup-based dishes in the city, but Naga is no slouch when it comes to other iterations of well known Filipino specialties. Including ones from Batangas, we’d say that our shared Southern Luzon brothers and sisters would agree! JCJ Food House serves Bulalo or their Bone Marrow Stew as the house specialty, as it started its roots as a simple bulalohan. And over time, with the success of their quaint business, they grew into a full blown restaurant that serve an assortment of sizzlers and dishes that pair well with their delicious bulalo.

Since their bulalo-centric days, they’ve expanded their menu to primarily sizzlers. Porkchops, sisig, liempo, and tenderloin tips. Mix and match their viands and with some java rice, veggies, and some bulalo on the side: that sounds like a combo to us, all at an affordable price point! If drinks are more your thing, their Little Hood Café serves some sweet and refreshing drinks that will cool you down after a long day at work. Something hot for the cold, something cold for the hot. Something tells us the JCJ is all about balancing their options.

JCJ Food Hub is a great place to get some delicious bulalo and just to get together with friends. Feast in their restaurant and feel that smokehouse vibe that they have going on. It really gets you in the mood to eat! We’ll be rolling out to a lot of local spots soon so if you’re looking for places to bring your special someone in, keep an eye out as we feature the best of what Naga has to offer!

JCJ Food Hub is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and is located at Main Road Zone 3 Dayangdang Street, Naga City. (beside Red Corner Hotel & Residences).

(Agnete Jonathan Noble, CEPPIO.)

This nationwide coffee franchise is fueling college students | But First, Coffee

CEPPIO Naga — Fri, 03 Feb 2023 07:10:02 +0000

Late nights, strong coffee, and impending deadlines. Let me tell you, nothing reminds me more of my college days than my caffeinated stupors back in the day. You’d think as we get older, we would ease off on the late-night coffee run, but there is something about having a cup of hot java that pairs well at any time of day. Sure enough, But First, Coffee is here to satiate that need for caffeine!

Located near one of the most well-known universities in the city, the Ateneo de Naga University, But First, Coffee is a popular spot among college students. Who can blame them? Coffee is one of the staple drinks of any college student who would want a pick-me-up before, during, or after class. And with its affordable offerings, the value for money is almost too good to believe. But what did we expect from a coffee place that expresses the fact that “good coffee doesn’t have to be expensive.”

True enough, their coffee is indeed both affordable and certifiably delicious! With coffee made from locally sourced beans, But First, Coffee is on a mission to make sure that its coffee is accessible without compromise. Take your pick between drip and espresso-based drinks. Go on ahead and explore their menu. Trust me, as a plain black coffee guy, I don’t care much for all these fancy variations to my favorite drink, but I enjoy a good Vietnamese-style coffee or even a Caramel Macchiato now and then. And their take on these coffee traditions is incredible.

Not a coffee drinker? I get it, some of us palpitate like there’s no tomorrow. But if you crave a sweet and satisfying drink while you work, their milk-based drinks are no slouch. And if, for whatever reason, you love their drinks enough and you want to drink more of them. Among the usual 12 and 16-ounce cups that they serve their drinks in, maybe you’d be into drinking 500 ml or even a liter of this stuff! Mind you, we don’t recommend you drink it all in one sitting. But if you want to enjoy But First, Coffee’s drinks at home, now you can order one-liter concentrates!

We are at an age where cafés are more accessible than ever. Flexible hours, with delicious drinks that won’t break the bank. There’s something about it that is attractive to a lot of people. Sometimes people see coffee as this super fancy concoction that’s exclusive to the fancy types. But really, that shouldn’t be the case. Because after all, good coffee doesn’t have to be expensive.

But First, Coffee is open from Monday to Thursday (10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.), Friday and Saturday (10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.), and Sunday (10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.).

(Agnete Jonathan Noble, CEPPIO.)

This Muji and Scandinavian inspired café is no slouch | Unica Coffee Bar

CEPPIO Naga — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 07:00:17 +0000

Happy New Year! This 2023, we’re looking forward to showcasing more local spots and services here in Naga. And to start the year off right, let’s look into this quaint coffee shop in Barangay San Felipe that merges two unique aesthetics into this chill and minimalist vibe: Say hello to Unica Coffee Bar!

Unica Coffee Bar is a unique café that combines the minimalist aesthetic of Muji with the elegance of Scandinavian design that creates an effortless yet modern feeling vibe that is warm, cozy, and welcoming! Sure enough, when went and visited it, you’ll feel right at home with its infusion of warmth and pastel interiors, wood grain tableware, and furnishings, it just feels right! The atmosphere really lends itself to make the place great hang out spot or a working space.

Enough about the vibes though, what about the food? Well, the food is pretty good! You would think that a place that markets itself with a very minimalist and pristine look would be all flash and no substance, but let me tell you, Unica delivers on the food side as well! Their popular drinks like the Unica Signature, frappes, lattes, and even their dalgona coffee pair well with the variety of food items that they have on the menu. Seafood Marinara, Shrimp Bruschetta, Traditional Carbonara, Mozzarella Sticks, and even Birria Tacos? It is hard enough to find a decent carbonara in the city, but they captured our hearts when they served that Birria Taco. The pastries are no slouch too! Gooey bars, chewy cookies, moist cakes, what’s not to love?

Overall, Unica Coffee Bar is a must-visit destination for coffee enthusiasts and foodies alike. The café’s unique blend of Muji and Scandinavian design, high-quality drinks and food, and cozy atmosphere make it a stand-out spot in the city, which is a huge plus for the younger generation who is into the vibes. Whether you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up, a leisurely meal or just a place to hang out, Unica Coffee Bar is sure to impress.

Unica Coffee Bar is open daily, from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.at the Ground Floor of Aman Corporate Center, Zone 6, San Felipe, Naga City.

(Agnete Jonathan Noble, Photos by Vic Villaflor, CEPPIO.)

A new yogurt culture arrives in Naga | llaollao

CEPPIO Naga — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 07:00:20 +0000

On the hunt for that sweet and tangy mix that a frozen yogurt can offer? There is something about it that is just perfect during these hot bouts of weather. If cooling off is your aim, then a refreshing llaollao frozen dessert is what you need!

llaollao (pronounced as yao yao,) is a Spanish frozen yogurt brand that was brought to the country by FooDee Global Concepts. The very same company that brought you the Filipino restaurant Mesa. FooDee aims to provide a new and refreshing frozen yogurt concept to the country; one that clearly stands out from the rest.

And what exactly separates llaollao from the rest of the frozen yogurt space? It’s the focus on fresh ingredients and even fresher frozen yogurt. Their chilled dessert is natural, and you can really taste it! Pair it with a multitude of toppings and you are bound for a very refreshing and sweet time! We recommend you try the Biscoff sauce poured over your llaollao yogurt. Normally we’d pick the fresh fruits, but when we found out that they had that sweet and buttery concoction, it is definitely a must try!

llaollao is open daily, from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. It’s located on the first floor of SM City Naga.

(Words by Agnete Jonathan Noble. Photos by Vic Villaflor. CEPPIO)

Gather ‘round the table, friends. It’s time to feast! | Mesa

CEPPIO Naga — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 10:00:07 +0000

It can be difficult to find dependable and reliable Filipino food sometimes. You crave for a classic that’s made just right and yet it’s something that you’ve never had before. A contradiction you say? Not at Mesa!

A true showcase of Filipino cuisine, Mesa offers diners a chance to experience Filipino food at its purest form: simple, savory, and straight up amazing! With modern reimaginings of Filipino classics like Kare-Kare, Crispy Pata, and Chicken Binakol, Mesa is the place to satisfy any craving. But among the greatest hits, Mesa also stands out with one particular dish: their award-winning Crispchon! A succulent fiesta favorite that is sure to be a hit in the coming Peñafrancia events! Crispy pork skin, juicy and tasty meat on the outside. Absolutely delish!

From faithful purists to the adventurous diner, everyone is welcome to try Mesa’s take on Filipino food! Just be sure to bring a group of friends or your family when you eat at Mesa. After all, Filipino food is meant to be shared and passed around the table, ‘di ba?

(Words by Agnete Jonathan Noble, Photos by Vic Villaflor. CEPPIO)

Pizza days just got even better! | Domino’s Pizza

CEPPIO Naga — Thu, 04 Aug 2022 07:00:20 +0000

As a young lad wandering the streets of Taft, I’d always see restaurants dotted along the avenue that I wouldn’t normally see back in Naga. I would envy my friends who lived there as they would have access to a whole plethora of food places and bars and lounges. But now, things are certainly changing. Gone are the days where you had to make the trip to Pasay just to get a taste of a J.Co, a Zarks, or even Starbucks for example. Big companies are looking toward the Bicol Region, especially Naga, as prime real estate for new business ventures and experiences (just like Filinvest and their Futura Monte project). But one of these new arrivals is one that I never expected: Domino’s Pizza!

Domino’s just opened this August 4, 2022 and they opened with a bang! Setting up a motorcade event attended by the Domino’s employees, branch managers, local officials, media, and influencers of the city. After the motorcade, they proceeded to head into the newly built Domino’s Pizza branch and baked a ceremonia “#83” pizza, marking the franchise’s 83rd location in the country.

We can’t wait to see what’s in store for Domino’s Pizza as they serve their pizzas to Nagueños all over the city, and in the whole Bicol region! If you ask me, the Spinach and Feta and Five Cheese pizzas are a must try! See you there!

Domino’s Pizza is open daily, 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM

(Words by Agnete Jonathan Noble, Photos by Vic Villaflor. CEPPIO.)

Fuel your inner sommelier at this bar and deli | Cellar

CEPPIO Naga — Thu, 28 Jul 2022 09:30:19 +0000

There is something to be said about laying back and sipping wine out of a fancy glass. That very act alone speaks to us a lot; craving that unique wine feeling. It makes us feel fancy, luxurious, and that signature buzz that wine tends to give off. So if you feel like sipping wine with a pairing of delicious dishes, come on down to the Cellar Bar, Kitchen & Deli!

Cellar has a variety of wines for you to sample and pair with dishes that they’ve prepared out of their place in Concepcion Pequeña. And these aren’t just the usual wines that you are familiar with. You have a selection of unique wines from varying regions and years. From reds to whites, sangrias to sauvignon blancs, and everything in between.

The food selection is quite special too. Their menu draws a lot from western influences and each dish can pair with a wine of your choosing. Appetizers, to full course meals; mix and match to experiment and explore new tasting experiences. Or leave it up to the knowledgeable crew at Cellar to pick wines for you, depending on your preference. But with or without the wine, the food can hold its own, no problem.

But don’t let this posh concept scare you off, though. To be clear: they are not a fine dining joint. They can accommodate all the creature comforts of our time, from walk-ins, take-outs, deliveries; anything to make that wine and dine experience accessible and open for all. Wine is for everyone, and not just for the elite and discerning. Folks like you and me can sample some of that sweet nectar, no problem! They even have special promos and a happy hour where they serve cocktails too for your bar crawling adventures. Sounds enticing, don’t you think so?

Cellar Bar, Kitchen & Deli is open Monday to Sunday, from 12:00 NN up until 11:00 PM.

(Words by Agnete Jonathan Noble, Photos by Vic Villaflor. CEPPIO.)

Home cooked dishes served out of Concepcion Grande | Chef Artist

CEPPIO Naga — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 10:00:12 +0000

A lot of home kitchens have been popping up recently. The pandemic has given a lot of people free time. Time to figure things out, learn new skills, and find new passions. And with that in mind, Chef Artist is definitely born from that spark of being able to do something new.

Emmanuel Obias together with his wife, Sybel, started Chef Artist out of the pandemic. Just to make a living in those dire times, he looked into selling home-cooked ulam (viands) outside their home, until business grew and they thought of expanding this culinary adventure through the creation of Chef Artist as we know it today.

Now, out of a small nook in their home at Concepcion Grande, they sell their greatest hits: their Flower Deluxe, Grilled Humba, Logvachi, and everyone’s favorite Fried Chicken and Carbonara, or the “Chickbonara,” one of Chef Artist’s first dishes. Served with either plain, or with Java rice of varying spice levels, you can pick out your favorites out of the bunch and munch on!

Chef Artist is open every Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

(Words by Agnete Jonathan Noble, Photos by Vic Villaflor. CEPPIO.)

This place will transport you to classic Naga | Naga Garden

CEPPIO Naga — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 07:00:31 +0000

When you look back and think about the quintessential Nagueño spots, nothing beats the nostalgic trip that is the Naga Garden Restaurant along Panganiban Drive.

For years since its establishment, you would think that it would receive a facelift in terms of its appearance, but it has been largely unchanged for decades now. Same interiors and layout, save for a fresh coat of paint every now and then. But if you’re a local, you’ll appreciate that constancy with a hit of nostalgia.

The same goes for the food, mind you! Naga Garden serves up home-style Filipino and Bicolano dishes and snacks that taste just like how lola would make it! Their classic dishes include their Mami noodles, Pancit Guisado, and the signature Toasted Siopao that’s just a staple if you visit the city at this point. The ulam (viand) selection is unmatched too! If you’re looking to pair your rice with something, might we suggest their kinunot or bopis? Let us know how you feel after a few bites!

The place is a classic. One of the many food places to visit in the city. If you’re not sure where to stop for lunch at Naga’s Centro area, Naga Garden sounds like a solid choice.

Naga Garden Restaurant is located at Barangay Sabang, Abella St., Naga City. It’s open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM every Monday through Sunday.

(Agnete Jonathan Noble, CEPPIO. Photos by Vic Villaflor.)