A taste of Taiwan: Lugang Café arrives in Cebu at SM Seaside

Cebu’s ever-evolving food scene just got more exciting. On Wednesday, 2 April, Taiwanese restaurant Lugang Café officially opened its first-ever branch in the Visayas at SM Seaside City Cebu.

Known for its refined take on Taiwanese classics and stylish interiors, Lugang Café has long been a go-to spot in Metro Manila for diners seeking xiao long bao, three-cup chicken, and other well-loved favorites. Now, Cebuano foodies can finally enjoy the same experience without having to hop on a flight.

SM Supermalls President Steven T. Tan shared that bringing Lugang Café to Cebu is part of a broader mission to offer more dining options and memorable experiences in local communities.

“With brands like Lugang Café and other first-in-Cebu dining concepts, we hope to add to Cebu’s already diverse and exciting food landscape," Tan said.

Growing lineup of global flavors

Lugang Café joins a wave of new culinary additions at SM’s malls in Cebu. Earlier this year, SM introduced Japanese favorites like Hoshino Coffee, known for its fluffy soufflé pancakes and hand-drip brews, and Yakiniku Like, a fast-casual solo-grill dining concept from Japan, both at SM J Mall.

These new names not only reflect SM’s knack for bringing global brands to local shores — they also mirror the evolving tastes of Cebuano diners who are increasingly open to new culinary influences.

What’s next on Cebu’s plate?

Food lovers can expect even more to look forward to. Within the first half of the year, Manam and Ooma, two of the most popular concepts from The Moment Group, will also open at SM City Cebu. Manam is known for its creative takes on Filipino comfort food, while Ooma offers a playful twist on modern Japanese fare.

SM Supermalls has previously brought in internationally acclaimed names such as Tim Ho Wan and Hawker Chan, giving locals access to Michelin-starred dining at accessible price points. With Lugang Café’s arrival and more on the horizon, it’s clear that SM continues to play a key role in shaping Cebu’s modern food culture.

Whether you’re looking for a casual weekend lunch, a family celebration, or a food trip with friends, the new offerings at SM’s Cebu malls are designed to satisfy both curiosity and appetite.

You can now visit Lugang Café at SM Seaside City Cebu and explore a menu full of Taiwanese specialties, crafted for sharing and savoring. Meanwhile, keep an eye out for the openings of Manam and Ooma at SM City Cebu — and more culinary surprises along the way.