Etta’s Cucina + Bar in Mandani Bay: A Fresh Spot for Cebu Foodies
A New Dining Spot in Mandani Bay
Just last Friday, Etta’s Cucina + Bar officially opened at Mandani Bay, Mandaue City. Since it was the talk of the town, we made sure to check it out right away for dinner.
There’s always a special kind of excitement when you try a new restaurant on its opening week. The anticipation of the food, the ambiance, and the overall vibe makes the experience even more memorable. That’s exactly what we felt stepping into Etta’s Cucina + Bar — a mix of freshness and curiosity.
First Impressions
The moment we walked in, the place gave off a modern yet cozy atmosphere. Bright lighting, sleek interiors, and well-spaced tables made it feel welcoming. Even though it was newly opened, everything looked organized.
What also stood out was how the restaurant balances its identity as both a cucina (kitchen) and a bar. You can come here for hearty Filipino dishes or simply chill with friends over drinks. That dual vibe makes it flexible for any kind of night out.
And let me just say, the service was smooth. The staff was attentive, warm, and quick — which isn’t always easy for a restaurant that just launched.
The Dish That Stole the Show: Mongos
Cebu food lovers know how much we value a comforting bowl of mongos (mung bean stew). Etta’s version? Packed with flavor, perfectly seasoned, and served with that “lutong bahay” (home-style cooking) feel.
The dish reminded me of Sunday lunches at home but with a restaurant’s finesse. It’s the kind of simple comfort food that instantly puts you at ease. For me, that was already a highlight of the night.
Bagoong in Kawali with Shrimp
Then came the Bagoong in Kawali with Shrimp. One bite and we knew this was going to be a crowd favorite.
The bagoong gave that salty-sweet kick, the crispy pork belly added crunch, and the shrimp tied everything together. It’s the type of dish that demands a plate of steaming hot rice — and we happily gave in.
This one is a must-try when you visit. Seriously, don’t skip it.
Other Comfort Food Options
Aside from mongos and bagoong, the menu has a variety of dishes that lean toward comfort food with a twist. Every plate we tried carried familiar flavors, but they were elevated just enough to make the dining experience feel special.
What I liked most was that nothing felt overwhelming. Each dish had balance — flavorful but not too heavy, seasoned well without overpowering your palate.
Perfect for Groups
Etta’s Cucina + Bar feels like the kind of place where you’d want to bring people along. Whether it’s:
A family dinner after work
A catch-up session with friends
Or a casual date night
The mix of hearty meals and a relaxed ambiance works well. And since they also offer drinks, it doubles as a bar for those who want to unwind.
Why You Should Visit Etta’s Cucina + Bar
It’s new and fresh – Perfect time to check it out before the crowds get bigger.
Comfort food favorites – Mongos and bagoong already impressed us, and there’s more to explore on the menu.
Versatile vibe – Works both for dinner and late-night hangouts.
Great service – The staff made our first visit smooth and enjoyable.
Location
📍 Etta’s Cucina + Bar
Mandani Bay, Mandaue City, Cebu
Easily accessible if you’re around Mandaue or Cebu City. Parking is also convenient since it’s within Mandani Bay.
Final Thoughts
Dining at Etta’s Cucina + Bar was a refreshing experience. For a restaurant that just opened, they already deliver on flavor, service, and atmosphere.
The mongos gave us that warm, homey feeling, while the bagoong in kawali with shrimp made us nod in approval with every bite. Add to that the welcoming interiors and smooth service — this spot is already setting itself apart as a new go-to in Mandani Bay.
Etta’s Cucina + Bar is a refreshing new spot in Cebu that’s worth adding to your dining list. And if you’re in the mood for more classic Cebuano comfort food, don’t miss our full review of Sunburst Fried Chicken at SM City Cebu — their crispy chicken and rich lomi combo never goes out of style.
Let’s Ma2ke it Yummy! 😋🔥
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