I found Gurium (Gureum) Cafe and Bar tucked away on the second floor of Gaisano Country Mall in Banilad, near the Chinese restaurant and just a stone's throw from the University of Cebu. Walking in, the vibe is immediate: chill, cozy, and profoundly relaxing. It’s the kind of place where you can fully relax, stretch your legs, and lounge comfortably—a rare find in a bustling city where seating usually prioritizes turnover over the actual human experience of comfort.
A Window with a Purpose
The owner’s story is one of my favorite parts of this discovery. Felicia, a Korean woman who has lived in the Philippines for three years, found this space when it was empty and poorly structured. Most would have seen a difficult renovation, but she saw potential in one key feature: a big window with a half-moon design. Felicia told me that people often travel far to the countryside just to find a great view, but with this window, they can enjoy the streets, the parking lot, and the rhythm of the city right from their seat. 🌙
She started the business just seven months ago and comes in every single day to manage it. That hands-on spirit is evident in the vibe; she’s friendly, calm, and clearly invested in the experience of her customers. She shared that starting her first business was a struggle, but her motivation was simple: giving people a place to truly "chill" and experience a view that makes them forget they're inside a mall.
""I struggled at first starting this business, but my motivation was giving people a place to chill and experience a great view.""
The Best Picks
The food and drink felt like "best picks" from the owner herself. I ordered the Carbonara with Garlic Baguette (₱340), which arrived in a record 8 minutes. It was served hot with an uncooked egg on top that blended beautifully into the creamy, milky richness of the pasta as I stirred it. It’s a perfect dish if you love that rich, savory egg flavor—though note it does contain pork.
I also tried the Iced Marshmallow Choco (₱180), which was surprisingly unique. The marshmallows tasted lightly grilled, adding a smoky depth to the drink. My tip: stir it well to blend the chocolate from the bottom with the marshmallows on top. It’s a satisfying, layered experience that matches the lounge's cozy energy.
The Takeaway
Gurium isn't just a cafe; it’s a study in how to make a commercial space feel like home. With fast WiFi, friendly staff, and a stay policy that allows for a generous 2.5 hours before needing to re-order, it’s a haven for students and digital nomads. The seating isn't just functional; it’s designed for lounging. You can relax like you’re in your own living room, watching the world go by through that half-moon window. I’ll definitely be back—it’s the perfect spot for when you need to recharge and actually feel comfortable.
Service Note
Very friendly staff (Rating: 5/5) and record-fast service (~8 mins). Perfect for a quality lunch or a long study session.
Policy & Vibes
2.5 hour stay limit. Vibe: Chill, Cozy, Relaxing. IG: @gureumcafe • FB: Gureum cafe & bar