The journey to Lantaw Native Restaurant in Busay takes

 only around 20 minutes, through the general direction

 of Marco Polo Hotel and the well-known Tops area.

There’s a chance, though, that it will be totally different

 a few years from now, if Cebu doesn’t learn from the

 horrible traffic situation of Metro Manila.

The food, while delicious and very reasonably-priced, is

 a secondary reason why we sought out this place. But

we can safely assume that most of the guests come

 here for the view. Or the ambiance.

Lantaw, in the Visayan dialect, means “to view” or “to

gaze.” A perfect name for this establishment. Lantaw

 Native Restaurant is tucked on a green hillside, with

a majestic view of Cebu City (we wouldn’t be surprised

if they install telescopes here, just like at the Edge

 Coaster at the towering Crown Regency Hotel). The

 view gets better at night as the city lights come alive

 and flicker through the mist.

Studies have shown that ambiance and the presentation

 have a positive impact on how we perceive the taste

of food. It’s comfortable fine dining at Lantaw Native

Restaurant. Seriously high-end presentation in a

surprisingly friendly atmosphere. The baked scallops,

 in all its golden glory, as well as the lechon kawali

and the calamares, are thoughtfully arranged in huge

elongated serving platters. Yet the tinolang manok

served in fresh whole buko, coupled with the beverage

served in a mayonnaise glass that we would ordinarily

 throw away, adds a common touch and a reminder

 that this restaurant serves authentic Filipino food. The

 high ceiling covered with banig completes

 the package.

calamares

lechon kawali

tinolang manok

beverage served in a mayonnaise glass

baked scallops

Well, you’ll find quality here. Lantaw is the Cebuano term

 for “can be seen from a distance” and aside from the

fact that the restaurant is actually floating, diners can

also enjoy a spectacular view of the hills and city of

Cebu in the distance. It is of course open so natural sea

 breezes will keep you cool while the salt water ‘scent’

 acts as a natural prop to this wonderful stage. The menu

 boasts a number of mouthwatering native dishes but

clearly fresh fish is the order of the day.