Classic Country Appeal

CEBU, Philippines - Upon first glance, the subdued, unassuming look of a small white restaurant beside a craft store cannot possibly pack a full house on a Friday night. Attention to old country detail and pared-down décor, Simply J's Café and Restaurant isn't your typical busy diner.

In the midst of Cebu's eventful hubs, the restaurant continues to boast simplicity. Head chef and co-owner, Jacob Sy Dico wanted to make costumers feel that they were eating at their own homes. "Be comfortable and think less of the city when you're in here," he said.

Chef Jacob is cousins with co-owner Jonathan Sy, son of Chef Vicky Sy who is also part of the culinary team. The family's passion for food turned into a much loved family business.

Aside from their wide array of snacks, gourmet sandwiches and salads, Simply J's also offers a long list of liquid concoctions like the Mango Ice Cream Shake for the kids-at-heart and a variety of fresh smoothies for the health buff.

One of their specialties is the comfort food king, the baby back ribs. In true Simply J's fashion, Chef Jacob uses honey mustard sauce instead of the traditional BBQ sauce. And for the brave ones, Chef Vicky's Lengua recipe is stewed in delectable mushroom sauce.

Other entrees include Salsa Cream Dory topped with tomatoes and lime and Seafood Pasta that started out as an experiment but later on added to the menu after a few other costumers requested for it.

Classic desserts like Apple Pie, Blueberry Cheesecake, and the ultimate Pinoy-fave, Leche Flan, are singularly homemade by Chef Vicky.

"Everything on the menu starts as a simple dish complimented with a delicious twist. If you serve good food, you're definitely worth the trip," Chef Jacob quips.

If you want to try out a different spin on your favourite meals, visit Simply J's Café and Restaurant at Apitong St. Corner N. Escario, Cebu City.

The restaurant opens at 10am-2pm and 6pm-10pm, Monday-Saturday. For reservations, call 505-8315.