EXCLUSIVE INSIDER’S LOOK: Fili Hotel-Nustar Resort in Cebu City – Prepare to Be Wowed!

Like a beating heart for luxury and opulence in the vibrant Cebu City, Fili Hotel features a seamless harmonious blend of modern elegance and unbeatable Filipino hospitality. It is located in a prime estate at the South Road Properties naturally enjoying the panoramic views of the sultry Mactan Strait and the Cebu downtown as part of the Nustar Resort Complex. It is the first operating hotel of the Nustar Resort complex.

As I stepped into Fili Hotel, I was immediately captivated by the air of sophistication that emanated from its grand lobby. The combination of contemporary design elements from its main structures and the Filipino accents and adornments created a welcoming atmosphere.

One must notice the woven patterns at the Front Desks that depict the Philippine textile industry. Additionally, the grand ceiling features orbital light fixtures around a central axis that exudes like a stack of elegant rings with precious diamonds. The lobby’s expansive space boasted stylish furnishings, a large floral centerpiece partnered with the humongous chandelier, and a friendly reception staff bearing their logo as a headdress under the high-ceilinged hall thus setting the stage for an unforgettable stay.

Dinner Buffet at Fili Cafe

Let us begin our story of the Fili Hotel experience by having a hefty dinner at their Fili Cafe. It is the hotel’s all day dining restaurant where dinner and breakfast buffets are served for both hotel and walk in guests. Fili Cafe elevated my culinary experience to new heights with its sumptuous buffet offerings. The dinner buffet was a gastronomic journey, featuring a diverse array of international and local cuisines. The Fili Cafe Buffet section features the famous Cebu Lechon section, succulent seafood cooked to your liking, up to perfectly seasoned meats such as the Roasted Beef Chuck Eye, and of course, the undying favorite, the Sashimi section.

They have a separate buffet section, the desserts section that always lights up our eyes, bread and pastry section with their lovely dinner rolls partnered with a spread of creamy butter. Their noodle section as well is one of my favorites, since of their Laksa bowls. The Grilled Seafood was awesome! It came a bit late because of the long queue, but the fresh flavors and plump meat were my reward. Definitely, each dish was a celebration of flavors. The fruit sections capped my dinner buffet experience with their cubes of watermelon and melon. Each servings tasted fresh, sweet, and flavorful.

Lounging and Mango Delights at Fili Lobby Lounge

A haven of relaxation, Fili Lobby Café beckoned with its inviting ambiance and promise of serene moments. Before I capped the night, my close friend Dave from Cebu City visited me in the Fili Hotel. We met at the Fili Lobby Lounge. The Lobby Lounge features one of the most stunning hotel ceiling features I have ever seen in the Philippines. The fixtures feature stylish metallic baskets in 3 layers which marries with the dramatic lighting.

The iconic woven wall fixtures also adorn the side halls of the lobby lounge offering privacy for the guests.

It is situated on the Ground Floor with Floor-to-ceiling glass walls allowing natural light. They also have comfy plush seats that are suitable for my back. Since we are in Cebu, we tried their mango-flavored offerings. Dave ordered the Mango Sans Rival and Mango Cakes, and Shakes as well to complete a wonderful tangy ensemble. I found myself with a full stomach sinking into their plush sofas while savoring a meticulously crafted mango-based beverage. The café’s menu showcased an impressive selection of artisanal brews, and the pastries were nothing short of delightful companions to the rich, aromatic beverages. It became my preferred spot for both quiet contemplation and casual meet-ups.

Premium Deluxe Twin Room Retreat

Three days of these – All the comforts of a luxury hotel in Cebu! Our accommodation at Fili Hotel reached its pinnacle in the form of the ultra-spacious Premium Deluxe Twin Room – talk about space. The room exuded a sense of refined luxury with its tasteful decor, modern amenities, and a mesmerizing view of the city including the mountainscapes – the view I love the most compared to the sea view that gets boring at night. City lights indeed sparkled from the shores up to the higher grounds of Metro Cebu as we unveiled the blackout drapes. The entire bedroom floor is fully carpeted.

A welcome treat is a surprise – talk about the quantity and quality. The moment we saw those dessert pieces, we could hear their silent screams to consume them. Heeding to their promise of quality, even the welcome treats are exquisite and top-notch. We gobbled them despite still feeling full.

The plush bedding ensured a two restful night’s sleep, and the attention to detail in room design reflected the hotel’s commitment to guest comfort. The mattresses were a symphony of comfort and joy on my back, providing the perfect balance between softness and support. The bedding, adorned with high-quality linens and a plethora of plump pillows, ensured a cozy retreat after a day of exploration. I never woke up with a bad neck, painful shoulder, or tender neck. The air conditioning control is centralized as well. The lighting controls are conveniently located at each bedside.

The room’s thoughtful amenities left nothing to be desired. A large flat-screen TV dominated one side, offering a diverse range of entertainment options. For coffee enthusiasts like myself, the Nespresso coffee facility was a delightful touch, allowing me to savor premium brews while enjoying the spectacular views.

The full-sized dresser, complete with a flat iron, and the personal refrigerator added a touch of practicality to the room, ensuring a seamless blend of luxury and functionality. We found two bathrobes and wooden hangers, including a hotel safe. There are enough spaces to stash our backpacks and luggage, away from our sight during our stay. The strategic placement of a chic couch created a cozy seating area, providing the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the breathtaking views through the floor-to-ceiling glass wall.

A designated working nook with a well-lit desk and ergonomic chair catered to my need for productivity. It was a quiet space that allowed me to catch up on work without sacrificing comfort. There are separate power outlets and a comfortable office chair to support your back and your throne during the needed productivity hours. Beside the working nook is a separate sofa to allow guests to lounge comfortably, conveniently, and in style.

The ensuite toilet and bath, with its spacious design and modern fixtures, provided a refreshing oasis. It features one of the largest powder room mirrors I have seen in my entire traveling career, lots of toiletries, and sparkling glasses for your hygiene requirements. The separate shower stall and toilet area added an extra layer of convenience and privacy, completing the ensemble of amenities that made Fili Hotel’s Premium Deluxe Twin Room a truly exceptional retreat. They also feature a full-size modern bathtub with hot and water modules plus separate bath amenities.

In every detail, from the plush beds to the panoramic views and thoughtful amenities, this room surpassed my expectations, making my stay at Fili Hotel a long-lasting unforgettable experience.

Breakfast Buffet Service at Fili Cafe

Entering the expansive dining hall of Fili Cafe at Fili Hotel, I was immediately captivated by the harmonious blend of elegance and warmth that enveloped the space. With the sunrise setting its grandeur inside allows its natural illumination to subdue any gray area. The breakfast buffet unfolded like a culinary masterpiece, offering an extensive selection that seamlessly integrated continental and Filipino breakfast delights. The buffet journey commenced at the inviting beverage and juice bar, where a plethora of refreshing options awaited – I truly loved the watermelon and melon juice separately. Moving through the vast spread, my senses were treated to a visual and aromatic feast – a vibrant salad section brimming with fresh greens, a noodle station resonating with the essence of Asian flavors, and an egg station where chefs skillfully crafted personalized omelets, ensuring a delectable start to the day.

The pastry section boasted an array of flaky croissants, a symphony of textures and flavors that hinted at the perfect craftsmanship behind each bite – yes you can see the hundreds of layers. The pancake and waffle section showcased a delightful interplay of sweet and savory, allowing guests to customize their breakfast indulgence. A dedication to freshness was evident at the dessert bar, adorned with fresh yogurts and an array of sweet treats that beckoned with irresistible allure. The cheese and cold cuts section, a haven for aficionados, featured a carefully curated selection that added a touch of sophistication to the morning affair.

You can order your choice of coffee beverages through their friendly and accommodating staff, and request additional fresh milk. They have a separate coffee brewing station and modern coffee yet sophisticated coffee machines.

Amidst this culinary opulence, certain dishes emerged as true heroes of the buffet. The bacon, with its resounding crunch and smoky aroma, stood out as a beacon of continental breakfast perfection. The meaty homemade corned beef is a robust and flavorful creation that embodies the essence of hearty comfort food. However, the spotlight truly shone on Eggs Benedict, a delicate dance of poached eggs and velvety hollandaise, melted in my mouth with every exquisite bite, embodying a culinary artistry that elevated the breakfast experience. In every aspect, from the spacious and inviting ambiance to the meticulously curated buffet selections, Fili Cafe’s breakfast spread was an immersive journey, transcending the ordinary and setting a new standard for morning indulgence. Sealing the wonderful breakfast experience is the lovely attention of all staff. From the reception, to the culinary team to the roving wait team who are thorough yet serve with brimming smiles.

Infinity Pool and Fitness Gym Overlooking Mactan Strait

Fili Hotel’s commitment to providing a holistic experience was evident in its recreational facilities. The infinity pool, perched on a high floor, offered a breathtaking panoramic view of the Mactan Strait. The juxtaposition of the infinity pool against the city skyline was truly mesmerizing. The fitness gym, equipped with cutting-edge machines, allowed for a workout with a view – a motivational setting overlooking the tranquil waters of the strait. The pool section features two separate adult pools separated by a slender center island. The pool deck is adorned with palm trees and lush greeneries plus the day beds to complete the ensemble. They have dedicated pool staff to look after your needs and for towel management.

Fili Hotel Cebu exceeded my expectations in every aspect, from its majestic lobby to its delectable culinary offerings, luxurious accommodations, and stunning recreational facilities. The seamless blend of Filipino warmth and world-class amenities made my stay an unforgettable experience. Fili Hotel is not just a place to stay; it is a destination that invites you to immerse yourself in luxury and create lasting memories.

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