La Tegola Ristorante Italiano: the real taste of Italy in Cebu

I’ve always been a fan of the island Cebu and, for years, it simply keeps getting better and better. And why is that? There are newly constructed beach resorts, hotels and commercial establishments that releases the overall capacity and future potential of Cebu. And also, the restaurants are sprouting all over that ranges from the authentic food culture of Korean, Japanese, French, Vietnamese, Chinese and, the ever-loved, Italian food.

Here in Banilad, the La Tegola Ristorante Italiano is one of those Italian food cuisines that deliver a great deal when it comes to Italian dishes. It’s not just the name, of course, but also what delectable and tasty dishes that are being served here.

The place

La Tegola is located in the flourishing hub of Banilad, Cebu City, specifically, beside Caesar’s Foodland Building. The whole interior is enveloped with a distinctive European and Mediterranean feel that simply washes you into the realms of Italian ambiance. Also, the cozy environment gives you a snugly feeling which instills privacy away from the busy streets of Cebu. It’s excellent interior boasts fine and delicately picked ornaments that simply completes the desired atmosphere for the perfect balance of both the European/Mediterranean environment and La Tegola’s delectable cuisine.

My attention shifted to this certain wine section that touts some of the best-tasting wine that gives chemistry to a meal. I kind of wanted to have some of those one day. It ranges from a worth 1000-8000 pesos per bottle, so I guess I should pass first.

Lastly, the name “La Tegola” is derived from a certain restaurant in Italy so it can be easily recognized by eaters who crave the Italian twist. Of course, not only Italians and other Europeans have dined here, but also Asians and Americans that indulge in the distinctive Italian dish.

The food

I actually went to La Tegola with my friends and we were greeted by this waiter/captain that seems to know what he’s talking about, and he was also enthusiastic and “very” welcoming. Anyway, he handed us the menu with a long list of delectables to choose from, and since I take quite of a time to give my order, my friends had to wait for at least 10-15 minutes. That’s why I don’t like menus with a hundred selection. Well, I kind of tried the Carpaccio, which is a smoked salmon with a fresh special lemon from Italy. My other half, ordered the Antipasto Misto, which is excellent (i could’ve ordered that one instead). A friend of mine ordered the “tummy-lagger” Risotto. Of course, he didn’t find out how long this dish will take to cook but, unfortunately (for me), he asked the waiter first and settled for a Ale Vongole, a paste sprinkled with clams and poured with a white wine. My other friend ordered Quatro de Formaggi – an off menu delectable that will surely make you remember every bite of it. That’s how tasty it is in La Tegola.

Instead of the usual bread, La Tegola served us the bruschetta, a distinctive crispy one soaked in an olive-oil based salsa peppered with herbs that will make you want to just eat five of it and go home. But I didn’t do that, of course. We waited for our orders and there we had one of the most memorable and makes-me-want-to-comeback-for-more meals. Now, that’s real Italian food for you.

La Tegola Schedule

La Tegola opens its doors for public at 11:00am everyday every week then closes at 2:50pm for a break. It opens again at 6:00pm for dinner and closes at 11:00pm.