Best Cafes for Breakfast & Brunch in Moalboal

The days in Moalboal are action-packed so starting your day right is essential.

This post will detail the best Moalboal cafes for coffee, breakfast, and brunch, updated for 2024.

*This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through a link on my site, I earn a small commission. Don’t worry, this is at no extra cost to you.

As one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Philippines, Moalboal is a must-visit destination on your Cebu itinerary.

This coastal town and nearby Pescador Island are hotspots for witnessing abundant marine life and attract travelers from all over the world.

The growth of tourism has led to the establishment of many delicious restaurants, buzzing bars, and trendy cafes.

Are you hoping for a refreshing start to your day and an energy boost before your canyoneering adventure?

Or maybe you’re fighting a hangover only a proper coffee and hearty breakfast can cure?

Or perhaps you’re simply looking to sip your morning coffee with a stunning view of the ocean?

This post details the best Moalboal cafes for coffee, breakfast, and brunch for a satisfying start to your day.

Smooth Cafe – Best Moalboal Cafe

One of the best Moalboal cafes, Smooth Cafe is a must-visit on any Moalboal itinerary.

Located in the heart of Panagsama Beach minutes from the shoreline, Smooth Cafe is your go-to spot for high-quality coffee, fresh flavorsome food, and fantastic vibes.

Self-described as a rustic industrial cafe, the interior design and vibrant paintings give the place a trendy atmosphere.

Smooth Cafe is the perfect little oasis with an indoor garden that seamlessly blends the industrial vibes with nature.

Smooth Cafe’s small but mighty menu is diverse and creative. They cater to every type of traveler, with a wide range of tasty drinks and food to satisfy any type of craving.

The best part is, the prices are super reasonable too.

Drinks & Coffee | Smooth Cafe

Good quality coffee can be hard to come by in the Philippines, so in this sense, Smooth Cafe Moalboal is like a breath of fresh air.

Smooth Cafe locally sources its coffee beans from the Cordillera Mountains in the Philippines. The result is freshly grounded and roasted coffee of the highest quality to kick-start your morning.

There is a wide range of hot and iced coffees to choose from, as well as frappes. If you’ve been searching for the elusive Flat White or Spanish Latte whilst traveling, then Smooth Cafe is a must on your Moalboal itinerary.

This Moalboal cafe also offers many different types of tea, smoothies, fruit juices, and decadent milkshakes.

As with most destinations in the Philippines, the WiFi in Siquijor can be a little patchy and unreliable. For a stress-free trip, I would suggest getting a data plan with an Airalo eSIM.

Breakfast or Brunch | Smooth Cafe

Smooth Cafe is one of the best spots for Moalboal breakfast or brunch, with a wide range of fresh and high-quality bites to eat.

The diverse menu includes heaps of delicious plant-based options too.

From sweet and savory waffles and crepes to delicious sandwiches and full hearty breakfasts, Smooth Cafe is the best place to kick off a busy day canyoneering or refuel after a morning snorkeling.

Note: for breakfast and brunch, there are more vegetarian options than vegan. For dinner, the reverse is true.

Dinner & Cocktails | Smooth Cafe

However, the fun doesn’t end at lunchtime. Smooth Cafe is open until late into the evening, with a live band and delicious cocktails bringing a touch of sophistication.

In the evening, you will find a fusion of Asian and Western cuisine. There is a great variety of tasty appetizers, perfect for socialising and sharing with friends.

Happy Hour is every day from 3 – 6 PM, so be sure to swing by for a cocktail or two and enjoy some acoustic music.

Whether you decide to stay at Smooth Cafe for a bite to eat or check out another one of the amazing restaurants in Moalboal, this is a great way to kick off your night.

Credit to Yancy Gabriel @ Smooth Cafe for the photos

Shaka Cafe – Best Breakfast Moalboal

If you’re searching for a healthy and refreshing breakfast in Moalboal, then look no further than Shaka Cafe.

Informally known as the birthplace of the smoothie bowl in the Philippines, you might have seen Shaka in other popular destinations, such as Siargao, Siquijor, or Bohol.

Shaka Cafe offers wholesome plant-based meals and drinks that prioritise your body’s health and well-being. It is a must-visit spot for vegans and vegetarians visiting Moalboal.

Located just minutes from the Panagsama Beach shoreline, the Shaka aesthetic is just as colorful and captivating as its food.

With beautiful designs and a totally Instagrammable swinging chair, this is one of the most aesthetically pleasing spots for a Moalboal breakfast.

The native-style shack and outdoor benches have a rustic charm, which when combined with the bright paintings, creates an inviting laidback beach vibe.

Tip: you can borrow a snorkel and mask for free with any combo purchase.

The Smoothie Bowl | Shaka Cafe

The star of the show here is the smoothie bowl.

With a range of fresh flavours and textures to choose from, these are the most photogenic smoothie bowls I have ever seen.

Bright vibrant fruits, and homemade granola, all topped off with stunning presentation. This Moalboal cafe is as delicious as it is nutritious.

Shaka Cafe sources the freshest and highest quality local fruits, vegetables, and superfoods.

There is a particular emphasis on sustainable methods and organic produce which is as good for you as it is for the environment.

Furthermore, as well as their iconic smoothie bowls, there is a wide range of energy-boosting drinks on offer too. Including freshly squeezed juices, smoothies, homemade soda, tea, and coffee.

The coffee here is absolutely delicious, with oat milk as the base for all coffees by default. They have other alternative milk options too.

The prices are not the cheapest but for the quality, Shaka Cafe is well worth the money.

Chief Mau Hostel – Best Value Moalboal Breakfast

Another one of the best spots for Moalboal breakfast is Chief Mau.

Not a cafe like the other places on this list, Chief Mau is a social backpacker hostel located minutes from the Panagsama Beach shoreline.

Despite being a hostel, the breakfast here is absolutely delicious and very reasonably priced. It is served every day until noon.

Chief Mau offers combo breakfasts, which come with fresh fruit and coffee included. As well as Western-style fry-ups and Filipino breakfasts, there is a choice of pancakes, french toast, or waffles for those with a sweeter tooth.

What I liked most about Chief Mau was the possibility of building your own breakfast.

Each item, from fruit and avocado to bacon and toast, is priced individually. I can be a little fussy at times and often like to swap the pork from my set breakfast.

The staff at Chief Mau were so accommodating and allowed me to make any necessary changes. My toast, eggs, avocado, fruit, and coffee were only 250 PHP!

When enjoying your Moalboal breakfast, you can sit up on the second-floor terrace balcony. There is a relaxed airy vibe and you can watch the world go by as you sip your morning coffee.

There are also many hammocks, as well as board games, darts, and pool. This is great for those looking for a slower-paced morning, perhaps after a busy night enjoying Moalboal’s nightlife scene.

Recommended: Moalboal Nightlife: Top 5 BEST Bars & Party Spots

Ram Coffee House – Best Coffee in Moalboal

Next up on this list of best Moalboal cafes is Ram Coffee House.

Ram Coffee House has two amazing locations. There is a bigger cafe on the main road which serves food and drinks. Alternatively, there is a new pop-up stall in El Mercado in the heart of Panagasama Beach serving only drinks.

The Coffee | Ram Coffee House

Ram Coffee House has some of the best coffee in Moalboal, with a wide range of flavours and styles.

They use Filipino beans sourced from local farmers to guarantee the highest quality in every cup.

With a state-of-the-art coffee machine, Ram Coffee House is well-equipped to satisfy all your coffee cravings. Whether you prefer your coffee hot or iced, all drinks are beautifully presented.

As well as mastering the classics to perfection, you can choose the style of your coffee based on nationality.

Choose from the extensive list of Irish, Vietnamese, Spanish, Portuguese, German, Italian, or Austrian-style coffee.

If you’re a foreign traveler missing the taste of home, then Ram Coffee House can provide you with the coffee comfort you need.

Alternatively, if you’re a local, Ram Coffee House is a great way of exploring the world without leaving Moalboal.

The Food | Ram Coffee House

Despite being a little out of the way, it is well worth visiting the Ram Coffee House Cafe on the main road.

Its location means it is a great spot to drop by as you arrive or before catching your bus to Cebu or Dumaguete.

The decor of this Moalboal cafe is rustic and trendy, with a touch of sophistication. The wooden furniture and soft lighting create a cozy atmosphere, with plenty of outdoor seating perfect for people-watching.

Its out-of-the-way location means that you do not have to worry about loads of foreign tourists or a crowded space.

The main reason to try the cafe itself is for the delicious food.

Ram Coffee House is a fantastic spot for Moalboal breakfast or brunch as they serve an all-day breakfast, with a choice between Filipino or Western-style food.

The pancakes and waffles are super fluffy, the portion sizes are generous and the taste is spot-on.

As if that wasn’t enough, the real attention to detail in the presentation shows that this is food that has been made with love.

If you’re visiting later in the day, they also offer some delicious pizzas and pasta, as well as a range of tasty cocktails to see you into the night.

The inviting aesthetic is replicated in the pop-up stall in El Mercado, albeit on a smaller scale.

Its convenient location in the Moalboal Market just 10 minutes from the shoreline makes this the perfect spot to drop by for your early morning coffee fix before your action-packed Moalboal itinerary.

Must Read: 10 Essential Things To Know Before Kawasan Falls Canyoneering

Andi’s Talisay – Best Moalboal Cafe With A View

Located on the beachfront of Panagsama, Andi’s Talisay is arguably the best Moalboal cafe with a view.

This cafe is slightly secluded and requires a short walk to reach. However, the reward is unobstructed views of the ocean and a chilled atmosphere absent of tourists.

This cafe has a cozy and welcoming vibe, with a choice of regular seating, beanbags, or benches. All seating has a breathtaking sea view and looks out directly onto the sardine run snorkeling area.

Andi’s Talisay offers one of the cheapest breakfasts in Moalboal and a wide range of coffees to kick-start your day exploring.

The beautiful scenery and tranquil atmosphere feel miles away from the hustle and bustle of the center. It is the perfect spot for a slow morning enjoying a coffee and watching the waves.

Tip: the owners are super friendly and are happy for you to leave your things here whilst snorkeling. I would recommend enjoying your breakfast here and then taking to the shores after.

The breakfast is simple, tasty, and well worth it for the price. Whether you’re craving a Filipino or Western-style breakfast, you should not expect to pay over 180 PHP ($3).

If you choose to pay slightly more and upgrade your breakfast, it will come with freshly squeezed juice too. If you’re not such an early riser, there is no need to worry, as breakfast is served all day.

I would also recommend swinging by in the early evening. With cheap drinks, live music, and extraordinary views of the Moalboal sunset, Andi’s Talisay is the perfect warm-up for Moalboal’s nightlife.

Where to stay in Moalboal

I would recommend staying in the area around Panagsama Beach when visiting Moalboal.

This is where you will find most of the main restaurants, nightlife, and of course, the spectacular sardine run just meters from the shoreline.

Chief Mau Hostel

The best Moalboal accommodation for budget backpackers and solo travelers.

Chief Mau is the ultimate social hostel, with amazing communal areas for socialising and meeting other travelers.

They also have many board games, darts, a pool table, and beer pong nights. As well as hosting movie nights and parties, you can also book your tours directly through the hostel.

Choose between shared dorms or a private room with a balcony. The dorms are spacious with plenty of storage and concrete beds that do not make any noise.

Located in the heart of Panagsama minutes from the beach, you cannot beat it for location.

Prices start from $17.00 for dorms per night.

Marz Inn Moalboal

The best budget-friendly Moalboal accommodation for couples or families.

Reasonably priced and impeccably clean rooms available, with aircon, a private bathroom, and a hot shower.

Excellent location just 5 minutes from Panagsama Beach but in a quiet area. Welcoming hosts can help with booking tours. Free drinking water provided.

Prices for a private room start from $25.00 per night.

Secret Paradise

The best luxury accommodation in Moalboal.

Deluxe private rooms with air conditioning, kettle, minibar, safety deposit box, and flat-screen TV. Perfect location just 2 minutes from Panagsama Beach.

This hotel features a stunning outdoor swimming pool and garden oasis, a delicious Asian-inspired restaurant, and a bar.

Prices start from $88.00 per night.

How to get to Moalboal

Located on the island of Cebu, most travelers will typically have to reach Cebu City before heading to Moalboal.

Once you have reached Cebu City, you have a couple of options based on your preference –

• Bus from Cebu City to Moalboal – 4 hours
• Private transfer – 2 hours (book here)

For full details, including the bus schedule and fare, check out my How To Get From Cebu to Moalboal guide.

How long should I spend in Moalboal?

I would recommend spending at least two nights in Moalboal.

I would recommend one day exploring Panagsama Beach and nearby Pescador Island. During your day snorkeling or diving, you can witness the iconic sardine run, as well as turtles and other marine life.

Full Post: Pescador Island Moalboal: The Ultimate Snorkeling & Diving Guide

If you are visiting Moalboal, you also cannot miss Kawasan Falls canyoneering. This is one of the best day trips in the Philippines for thrill-seekers and waterfall lovers.

Moalboal also has some pretty amazing restaurants and a buzzing nightlife scene. It is the perfect destination in the Philippines to meet other backpackers and like-minded travelers.

Must Read: How To Spend 1-3 Days in Moalboal: The Ultimate Itinerary

What makes Moalboal famous?

Moalboal has gained international fame for its sardine run just meters from the shoreline. It is the second-largest sardine run in the world.

As Cebu’s diving capital, travelers flock here to witness the abundance of marine life below the surface.

In more recent years, adventure lovers have been drawn to the crystal-clear waters of Kawasan Falls. Canyoneering is a must-do activity on any Philippines itinerary.

Need travel insurance? Small Girl Big Backpack readers get 5% off Heymondo Insurance when booking through this link. With 24/7 worldwide assistance, this is the best insurance for travelers.

This post has detailed the best cafes in Moalboal for a delicious breakfast or brunch.

If you liked this post and you’ll be spending some time in Moalboal, feel free to check out my other handy guides –

• How To Get From Cebu To Moalboal: Schedule & Fare (2024)
• Where To Eat: Top 7 Must-Visit Moalboal Restaurants
• 10 Essential Things To Know Before Kawasan Falls Canyoneering
• Moalboal Nightlife: Top 5 BEST Bars & Party Spots
• How To Get From Moalboal To Siquijor: Schedule & Fare (2024)
• Pescador Island Moalboal: The Ultimate Snorkeling & Diving Guide
• How To Spend 1-3 Days in Moalboal: The Ultimate Itinerary