Top 7 Must-Visit Moalboal Restaurants

Planning a trip to Moalboal?

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top 7 most delicious restaurants in Moalboal you cannot miss.

As one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Philippines, Moalboal is a must-visit destination for many travelers.

Famous for its legendary sardine run and adrenaline-fueled canyoneering, this coastal town has long been a magnet for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

After a busy day of canyoneering at Kawasan Falls or diving with sardines, a refuel that hits the spot is just as important as the adventure itself.

From sizzling Filipino favorites to hearty comfort foods, this guide will take you through 7 of the best restaurants in Moalboal that deserve a spot on your foodie bucket list.

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Where To Eat in Moalboal: Overview

If you don’t have time to read the whole guide, below is a quick summary.

Top 7 Best Restaurants in Moalboal

A popular destination on the backpacker trail, Moalboal offers a harmonious blend of Filipino favorites with newer international influences.

All of the best restaurants on this list are located in the Panagsama Beach area of Moalboal.

➡️ If you’re hoping for breakfast or coffee, check out my in-depth Moalboal Cafes Guide

Kugita Seafood & Charcoal Grill

• Creative spin on Japanese classics
• Specializing in seafood, BBQ meats & sushi
• Must-try: Tomahawk Pork Chops 390 PHP ($6.90)

Kugita is undoubtedly one of the best restaurants in Moalboal and has gained fame as one of the most unique fusion restaurants on Cebu Island.

Specializing in seafood, barbecued meat, and sushi, Kugita is known for its creative take on Japanese classics.

The owner and chef, who has honed his craft around the world, is deeply committed to sourcing the freshest local ingredients sustainably.

Every morning at 5:00 AM, he handpicks the best produce from local markets, ensuring both top-quality ingredients and support for the local economy.

The sushi rolls are the true highlight, showcasing the chef’s creativity and attention to detail.

But if sushi isn’t your thing, there’s also a grill menu with a fantastic selection of juicy steaks, beef ribs, succulent pork chops, and chicken.

Located just a short walk from Panagsama Beach, Kugita offers an inviting al fresco dining experience in a cozy, candle-lit garden.

With an open kitchen where you can watch your meal being prepared, the restaurant creates a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for a relaxing evening.

Ven’z Kitchen

• Authentic & affordable Filipino cuisine
• Cooking classes
• Must try: Mango Float 170 PHP ($3)

Ven’z Kitchen is one of the best places to eat in Moalboal for authentic Filipino favorites at budget-friendly prices.

Located in the heart of Panagsama Beach, Ven’z showcases the very best of Filipino cuisine.

Ven’z Kitchen is also a haven for vegans and vegetarians, with an extensive plant-based menu to choose from.

Whether it’s your first time in the Philippines or you’re a local, this is the go-to spot for authentic flavors, from pork sisig to chicken adobo.

Ven’z have also gained fame for their iconic Mango Float – a delicious cheesecake-like dessert with fresh mango on top!

For seafood lovers, you can pre-order fresh catches the night before, ensuring quality and freshness, as the owner handpicks seafood from the market early each morning.

Unless you pre-order seafood, you can’t reserve a table. It often gets busy so I’d suggest arriving as they open at 5:00 PM to guarantee yourself a seat.

The native-style bamboo aesthetic creates a casual yet welcoming dining atmosphere. The bar at the front has communal seating, great for solo travelers looking to socialize.

Ven’z also offers cooking classes every Friday, which include a trip to the local market and tips to recreate traditional Filipino classics in the comfort of your own home.

➡️ You might also like: Moalboal Nightlife Guide: Top 5 Best Bars

Trattoria Altrove

• Fine-dining restaurant
• Authentic Italian cuisine & homemade gelato
• Must try: Lasagna 430 PHP ($7.60)

If you’re craving authentic Italian flavors in Moalboal, look no further than Trattoria Altrove.

With other branches in El Nido and Coron, Trattoria Altrove is the epitome of Italian class in the heart of the Philippines.

This fine-dining restaurant offers a serene escape from the usual hustle and bustle, with a garden oasis atmosphere enhanced by fairy lights on each table, creating a romantic vibe.

The traditional brick-style woodfire oven guarantees that the pizzas are cooked to perfection.

Not only is there a wide range of flavorsome toppings, but you can also build your own pizza to satisfy your taste buds.

The pasta and sauces are freshly made, and the risotto is a rare treat in Southeast Asia, making it a must-try for fans of authentic Italian cuisine.

Start with a creative appetizer platter, perfect for sharing, and enjoy a delicious selection of wines, with the friendly staff ready to recommend the perfect pairing.

Make sure to leave room for dessert as homemade gelato is the perfect sweet ending to your meal!

➡️ Struggling to plan? Check out my Moalboal Itinerary: How To Spend 1-3 Days in Cebu’s Diving Capital

Hummusta!

Hummusta is one of the best restaurants in Moalboal for those craving Middle Eastern food and flavours.

Located slightly further up from the Panagsama Beach area, Hummusta is a real hidden gem in Moalboal. Not only is the food absolutely delicious, but their prices are super affordable.

Hummusta specialises in Middle Eastern-inspired food, such as falafel, pita, hummus, shakshuka, and salads.

If you’re looking for a change from heavy, meat-centric Filipino and Western food, then Hummusta is the perfect spot for healthier, lighter, and more refreshing bites to eat.

With Israeli owners, each dish is cooked to perfection and you are guaranteed authenticity with every bite.

Everything is made fresh daily to guarantee the quality of the ingredients. The pitas are freshly baked each day and are some of the fluffiest and most delicious you will ever eat.

If you’ve been missing spicy foods in the Philippines, be sure to request some of their homemade hot sauce to accompany your meal.

This is one of the best Moalboal restaurants for vegetarians, with plenty of varied options that do not compromise on flavour. Furthermore, for the reasonable price, the portion sizes are very generous.

The establishment itself is very humble, so if it is fancy and frills you’re after, then this might not be the place for you.

Hummusta is a must-visit Moalboal restaurant for lovers of Middle-Eastern cuisine and for those looking to try something different.

Recommendations

• Falafel Plate 270 PHP ($4.70)
• Shakshuka Plate 270 PHP ($4.70)
• Chicken Schnitzel Pita 280 PHP ($5)

Three Bears

• Western home-comfort food
• Specializing in burgers
• Must try: Veggie Burger 285 PHP ($5)

Three Bears is another one of the most delicious restaurants in Moalboal.

Located in the heart of Panagsama Beach, Three Bears specializes in Western-style food and is known for its mouth-watering burgers.

From juicy burgers and chicken wings to succulent ribs and chili con carne, Three Bears offers perfect home-comfort foods to refuel after a busy day exploring.

In addition to their iconic burgers and wings, Three Bears offers an extensive wine list for those seeking a touch of sophistication, along with incredible cocktails and refreshing smoothies.

For vegans and vegetarians, there are plenty of tasty options, from veggie burgers to vegan chili and stir-fry.

The outdoor seating area is inviting and sociable, with large benches great for dining with friends and meeting other like-minded travelers.

The outdoor seating area is welcoming and perfect for sharing a meal with friends or meeting fellow travelers.

If you have room for dessert, don’t miss their yummy desserts perfect for those with a sweet tooth.

✅ Short on time? Check out this combined Island Hopping & Kawasan Falls Canyoneering Tour for the main Moalboal highlights

Tan-Aw

• Breathtaking views of the ocean
• Asian fusion dishes
• Must try: Garlic Buttered Shrimp 275 PHP ($4.80)

Tan-Aw, also known as Lantaw before the name change, is another of the best restaurants in Moalboal.

If you’re looking for the perfect place to enjoy unobstructed ocean views while you dine, this is the spot for you.

Perched above Neptune Diving Center, Tan-Aw offers sweeping views of the Moalboal shoreline and the famous sardine run area, making it the ideal setting for a relaxing meal.

This airy, breezy, terraced restaurant is the only one in Panagsama Beach offering a diverse range of Asian fusion dishes.

From Thai and Indonesian to Chinese, Filipino, and Indian, the menu offers a culinary journey through Asia—all prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients that deliver an explosion of flavors.

As Tan-Aw is west-facing, you’ll be treated to stunning sunsets every evening. It’s a popular spot around this time, so I highly recommend arriving early to secure your seat.

With stunning views and high-quality food, Tan-Aw restaurant is a must-visit when wondering where to eat in Moalboal.

Hungry Monkeys

• Asian, Filipino & Western cuisine
• Lots of seating – social atmosphere & boardgames
• Must try: Pad Thai 260 PHP ($4.50)

The final spot on this list of best Moalboal restaurants is Hungry Monkeys.

Hungry Monkey offers a range of Asian, Filipino, and Western favorites. Their extensive and varied menu will be sure to satisfy any craving.

For plant-based eaters, Hungry Monkeys is a paradise, offering creative vegan and vegetarian versions of Filipino classics like chicken adobo and pork sisig.

The restaurant also tailors its Filipino offerings to cater to Western tastes, making it a great introduction to authentic Filipino flavors, especially for those new to the Philippines.

The vibe of the restaurant is trendy and fun, with amazing paintings and graffiti on the walls. The mood lighting adds a laidback, cozy atmosphere, perfect for a casual meal.

Spread across multiple floors, the restaurant offers a range of seating options. Recently renovated, it now features an additional bar and more space to accommodate guests.

If you love people-watching, head to the second-floor terrace overlooking the street. For a more social vibe, the top floor provides a spacious and lively setting.

Due to Hungry Monkey’s popularity, it can get pretty busy and you can expect slightly slower service than other restaurants.

But don’t worry—there are plenty of board games to keep you entertained while you wait, plus delicious drinks and appetizers to enjoy.

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Where to stay in Moalboal

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

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

Chief Mau Hostel (recommended)

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 – this is where I stayed.

Reasonably priced and 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

FAQs

How long should I spend in Moalboal?

How many days should I spend in Moalboal?

I would recommend spending at least two nights in Moalboal.

Spend day one exploring Panagsama Beach and nearby Pescador Island by snorkeling or diving – witness the iconic sardine run, turtles, and other marine creatures.

✅ Book your Sardine Run & Pescador Island tour in advance here

On day two, you cannot miss canyoneering at Kawasan Falls. This is one of the best day trips in the Philippines for thrill-seekers and waterfall lovers.

✅ Book your Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls in advance here

➡️ Full Post: 10 Essential Things To Know Before Kawasan Falls Canyoneering

Moalboal also has some pretty amazing restaurants and cafes. As well as the main tourist spots, it is well worth taking some time to explore Moalboal’s culinary scene.

If you benefit from time on your Moalboal itinerary, as well as exploring the Panagsama Beach area, leave some time to relax at White Beach too.

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

Does Moalboal have nightlife?

Moalboal is a fantastic destination to enjoy nightlife in the Philippines.

As a hotspot for recreational divers and adventure-seekers, Moalboal naturally attracts many backpackers and the intermingling of locals and tourists creates a buzzing atmosphere.

While nightlife in Moalboal is much more chilled than that of El Nido or Siargao, if you’re looking to party then you will not be disappointed.

There are heaps of amazing bars, as well as pumping parties to see you into the night.

➡️ Full Post: Moalboal Nightlife: Top 5 BEST Bars & Party Spots

What makes Moalboal famous?

Moalboal has gained fame as having one of the richest marine habitats and some of the most abundant marine life in the whole of the Philippines.

This has transformed Moalboal into the snorkeling and diving capital of Cebu.

➡️ Must Read: Pescador Island Moalboal: Ultimate Snorkeling & Diving Guide

Recreational divers and adventure-seeking backpackers flock to Moalboal to witness the world’s second-biggest sardine run just meters from the shoreline.

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.

Moalboal Restaurants: Final Thoughts

From authentic Filipino flavors to top-notch international cuisine, Moalboal’s restaurant scene offers something for every kind of traveler.

Have you visited any of these restaurants yourself? Do you have any recommendations to add to the list?

If you have visited Moalboal, I would love to hear from you – leave me a comment or reach out to me on Instagram or Pinterest and let me know how it was!

Planning your Philippines trip?

With so many amazing islands to explore, how do you decide where to visit? For inspiration, itinerary ideas, and dream destinations, check out the following –

1-Month Philippines Itinerary – the ideal backpacking route exploring popular destinations & off-the-beaten-path spots

Top 10 Best Places To Visit in the Philippines – your ultimate guide to the best destinations to suit every type of traveler