A Getaway from the City within the City

Experiencing magic and romance that is Mr. A

 CEBU, Philippines - Listening to feel-good music while enjoying superb dining experience beneath the stars; feeling the crisp evening breeze and watching the spectacular view of the city. For many lovers, this is the perfect Valentine set-up, but for Alvin Alazas and his wife Mimi, this is the ideal gift that they can give to their patrons.

The hilltop of Busay was tagged as lover’s lane during the ‘90s. But way before there were many romantic restaurants, Mr. A Bar and Restaurant had been there to bring the tender placidness of nature close to the city. Opened on December 17, 1996, this family enterprise run by the Alazas has been a quick but hauntingly good escapade for many. However, it was only after a year from its establishment that the restaurant really took off. Coming from a family who has been in the food business for a long time, Alvin oversees everything—from management to budgeting—and the rest of the family helps out. There wasn’t much advertising. The restaurant marketed itself by word of mouth. So what makes people travel way up to the hills to experience Mr. A, all these years?

“The location speaks for itself. The view is beautiful and it’s only a few minutes’ drive to experience such an ambiance – definitely worth the short trip,” shares Mimi. “Keeping a warm atmosphere and establishing rapport with loyal patrons are just as important as the menu. Of course, having good, simple food at sensible price points doesn’t hurt either.”

While its breathtaking view of the city’s sunset and the glistening evening lights was an undeniable edge, Mr. A has also acquired a label of being a great dining destination, serving timeless comfort food that never fails to please the palate. Adding spice to its menu, which features mostly Filipino dishes, are Chinese,   American and Japanese dishes to cater to a wider market.

In July 2010, Mr. A Bar and Restaurant made a new addition to their already sensational setting. Heeding the demand of loyal patrons who were craving for a good brew with a great view, Mr. A Café was opened, serving gourmet coffee and cakes. “While the main restaurant is more of your ‘neighborhood bistro’ with laid-back and comfortable vibe, the cafe adds a little more chic to the experience,” Mimi says, talking about how the restaurant and café complement each other.

From its promising beginning 15 years ago, Mr. A has indeed well established a name. It has been a not-so-far away refuge from the hustle and bustle of city life. Couples on a date have been a good market for the Mr. A; likewise, it has conquered the corporate world and has become a special bonding venue for families and barkadas.

Proud of what it has become, Alvin and Mimi never forget to look back and recognize who made Mr. A what it is today. Each year they express their gratitude on the day of hearts. “It’s our way of thanking our customers for their continued patronage,” the couple state. This Valentine’s Day, patrons can avail of Mr. A’s sumptuous dinner buffet at a reasonable price of P450.00/person. Kenosis Band, a regular band of Celebrity Cruise ships, will be performing on that night. Whether it’s with a partner, a friend, or with the family, nothing beats a date on a hill, overlooking the city.

Today, Mr. A has visions of expanding within the property. Currently, a souvenir shop is being planned out to cater to foreigners who have inevitably been dazzled by the classic beauty of Mr. A. The owners are also looking into expanding the outdoor cafe and constructing more function rooms for private and corporate parties. Eventually, townhouses in the property will also be built for people who want to experience serenity on top of the city—easily, every day.  (FREEMAN)