Matana Cafe | VC-MC

Introduction

Tucked away in the breezy mountain ridges of Cebu Transcentral Highway, Matana Café offers more than just a great cup of coffee—it’s a serene retreat for nature lovers, foodies, and city escapees. Perched at an elevation with sweeping views of Cebu’s lush highlands, this charming hilltop café is a rising favorite among locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re looking for a quiet brunch spot, a romantic sunset date, or a photo-worthy destination with breathtaking vistas, Matana Café welcomes you with good food, a relaxing ambiance, and scenic beauty that defines the highland experience.

Specialty or Focus

Matana Café takes pride in its artisanal coffee selections, hearty all-day breakfast meals, and classic comfort dishes made with a Cebuano twist. Their house blend coffee is locally sourced, supporting farmers from the Visayas region. Signature dishes such as their crispy chicken waffles, ube pancakes, and longganisa rice bowls reflect a delightful fusion of Western café culture and Filipino flavors. For dessert lovers, their selection of cakes and pastries—especially the matcha cheesecake and chocolate lava cake—are must-tries.

Visitor Experience

Guests at Matana Café can enjoy open-air dining with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and cloud-covered valleys, especially enchanting during early mornings or golden hour. The design features natural materials—wooden furniture, bamboo accents, and garden pathways—that blend harmoniously with the mountainous backdrop.

Aside from dining, visitors often linger for the Instagram-worthy spots such as the garden benches, rustic coffee counters, and scenic decks. It’s a popular stopover for bikers, road trippers, and weekend riders traversing the Transcentral Highway route. Occasionally, the café hosts live acoustic music sessions and local art pop-ups, adding a cultural touch to the experience.

Location and Accessibility

Matana Café is located along Cebu Transcentral Highway, just about 40 minutes from Cebu City proper by private car or motorbike. The drive itself is a highlight—winding mountain roads lined with pine trees and roadside flower stalls. It’s situated at coordinates 10.367843392445575, 123.87314235398831, approximately near the Busay-Balamban boundary.

Public transportation options are limited, so the best way to get there is via private vehicle or hired motorbike (‘habal-habal’). There’s ample parking space near the café, and it's a common stop among travelers exploring the highland attractions of Cebu like Sirao Garden, Temple of Leah, and Adventure Café.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Matana Café is early in the morning for breakfast and sunrise views or in the late afternoon for the golden hour and cool mountain air. Weekdays are quieter, while weekends draw more visitors. From November to February, the mountain air is crisp and refreshing, perfect for cozying up with a hot drink.

Practical Information

• Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily
• Entry Fee: None (you only pay for food and drinks)
• Payment: Cash and major e-wallets (like GCash) accepted
• Parking: Available on-site
• Nearby Attractions: Sirao Flower Farm, Temple of Leah, West 35 Eco Mountain Resort

Visitor Tips

• Bring a light jacket—it can get chilly, especially in the late afternoon.
• Avoid peak hours if you prefer quiet surroundings (best times are weekday mornings).
• Practice eco-friendly habits: take your trash with you and respect the mountain environment.
• Don’t forget your camera—sunsets and misty mountain views are spectacular for photography.
• If you're planning a visit during weekends or holidays, arrive early to avoid waiting in line for a table.