Out of Town Blog
REVIEW: NUSTAR Hotel Cebu
I recently had the pleasure of experiencing a delightful staycation at NUSTAR Hotel Cebu, renowned as the Philippines’ first all-Filipino luxury hotel brand, proudly owned by the Gokongwei group. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by the hotel’s sophisticated ambiance, attentive service, and elegant decor that seamlessly blends contemporary design with Filipino heritage.
It’s no surprise that, despite being a relatively new entrant in Cebu’s hospitality landscape, NUSTAR Hotel Cebu has already been featured in the prestigious Michelin Guide Hotel List for the Philippines. This accolade underscores the hotel’s commitment to exceptional hospitality and its impressive array of world-class amenities.
As a standout luxury 5-star establishment, NUSTAR Hotel Cebu has quickly garnered praise for its impeccable service—reflected in its outstanding 9.5 out of 10 rating from verified guests.
The hotel offers a selection of spacious, elegantly appointed rooms and suites, all boasting expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that frame breathtaking panoramic vistas of Cebu City’s dazzling skyline or the serene blue seascapes beyond. Each accommodation is thoughtfully designed with modern comforts, including indulgent deep soaking tubs, efficient air conditioning, and complimentary high-speed WiFi, ensuring every guest enjoys a truly relaxing and memorable stay.
Location in Cebu City
NUSTAR Hotel sits on the 89,000-square-meter Kawit Island within Cebu City’s South Road Properties development. This location makes it the only integrated resort in the Visayas and Mindanao regions.
The hotel is approximately 15 minutes from Cebu’s historic and commercial districts. Guests can reach Mactan Cebu International Airport in about one hour via the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway.
Key Distance Markers:
- Historic Cebu City center: 15 minutes
- SM Seaside City Cebu: Walking distance
- Cebu Coliseum Indoor Arena: 3.4 km
- Mactan Cebu International Airport: 1 hour
The South Road Properties area provides modern infrastructure and easy access to shopping centers. The island setting offers both urban convenience and waterfront views.
Architectural Design and Ambiance
The hotel showcases neoclassical design elements created by Hirsch Bedner Associates from Hong Kong. Colonial columns and arches define the expansive lobby area, creating an elegant first impression.
Floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the property maximize sea and city views. The NUSTAR Lounge features panoramic water views and serves as a popular gathering space for guests.
Design Features:
- Lobby: Neoclassical with colonial columns
- Windows: Floor-to-ceiling throughout
- Color Scheme: Warm wood tones and marble finishes
- Lighting: Sophisticated ambient lighting systems
Room interiors blend modern luxury with warm wood furnishings. Marble bathrooms include large soaking tubs positioned to face the sea, with chandelier lighting overhead.
Affiliation with NUSTAR Resort
NUSTAR Hotel operates as part of the larger NUSTAR Resort and Casino complex. The resort includes multiple hotels, with NUSTAR Hotel being the second of three planned properties to open.
The Fili Hotel opened three years before NUSTAR Hotel’s soft opening in early May. Guests at NUSTAR Hotel can access facilities at the Fili Executive Club Lounge.
Resort Components:
- NUSTAR Hotel (ultra-luxury, 223 rooms)
- Fili Hotel (five-star)
- Casino gaming facilities
- Four-floor shopping mall with 22 luxury boutiques
The integrated resort concept provides over 30 dining outlets, from casual food hall options to fine dining establishments like Mott 32 and Il Primo. Shopping includes high-end brands such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Bulgari.
Entertainment facilities span multiple floors with golf simulators, cinema, and gaming areas. The resort aims to function as a complete destination for both business and leisure travelers.
Room Types and Accommodation Details
During my recent staycation, I enjoyed a stay in the Signature Sea View King room, a 52-55 square meters haven of luxury that blends modern elegance with comfort. The room showcases stunning views of Cebu’s vast sea through floor-to-ceiling windows and centers around a plush king-sized bed. It also includes a long divan for relaxation, a work desk, and premium furnishings in warm, sophisticated tones.
Designed for both leisure and business travelers, the room is equipped with modern amenities such as a flat-screen TV, minibar, high-speed Wi-Fi, and in-room climate control. The luxurious bathroom is spacious and thoughtfully appointed with high-end fixtures, featuring a deep soaking bathtub for unwinding and a separate glass-enclosed rainfall shower for a refreshing experience.
Double vanities with ample counter space, plush bathrobes, premium toiletries, and soft lighting create a spa-like atmosphere, enhancing the sense of indulgence. Every detail, from the high-thread-count linens to the marble accents in the bathroom, reflects NUSTAR’s commitment to refined hospitality, making the Signature City View King room an ideal choice for travelers seeking style, comfort, and a memorable stay in Cebu.
Room Categories and Layouts
The hotel offers three main accommodation categories with generous floor plans. Signature rooms start at 52 square meters, providing ample space for guests.
Suites range from 77 square meters to 225 square meters. These larger accommodations offer separate living areas and enhanced amenities.
The property features three exclusive villas spanning 435 to 670 square meters each. These represent the most spacious accommodations available.
| Room Type | Size Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Signature Rooms | 52m² | King bed, butler service |
| Suites | 77-225m² | Separate living areas |
| Villas | 435-670m² | Maximum luxury space |
Each floor includes dedicated butler staff trained by Heilbron Hospitality. All rooms feature full-length windows and modern layouts designed for comfort.
Signature Features and Amenities
Enjoy complimentary WiFi available in every room, with air conditioning ensuring comfort in any season. Modern luxuries include heated smart toilets and intuitive push-button controls for effortless adjustment of lighting, curtains, and door signs.
Each room comes with a well-stocked mini-bar, as well as complimentary drinks and snacks to enhance your stay.
The marble-finished bathrooms feature large soaking tubs designed to maximize available views, and are equipped with full-sized Guerlain bath products for an indulgent touch. Rainforest showers add a spa-like experience.
Other thoughtful amenities include laptop-friendly workspaces, electronic safes, and fresh flowers delivered regularly to create a warm and inviting space.
Sea View and Scenic Options
Panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows in every room showcase either sweeping sea views or the vibrant cityscape of Cebu. The hotel’s coastal setting rooms allows you to capture and enjoy breathtaking ocean scenery, while the city facing rooms frame the dynamic urban skyline against a mountain backdrop.
Rooms with sea views face the water, featuring marble bathrooms and soaking tubs oriented toward the coastline. City view options share the same luxury amenities and dedicated butler service.
Situated on Kawit Island, the hotel offers elevated vantage points, with higher floors granting the most impressive vistas. Expansive windows bathe every room and marble bathroom in abundant natural light throughout the day.
Dining and Restaurant Experiences
Fili Dining Concepts
Fili Dining Concepts represents NUSTAR’s collection of Filipino restaurants that showcase regional and contemporary local cuisine. The flagship restaurant Fina stands out with its elevated Cebuano specialties served in plush interiors combining art deco elements with Filipino design cues.
Fina’s menu features authentic Cebuano dishes including Chorizo de Cebu, Linarang, Balbacua, Ngohiong, and Bellychon.
The dessert selection deserves special attention. The Halo-Halo arrives in a distinctive woven cage presentation, while the Puto Maya comes served as a circle with latik and sikwate for an authentic local experience.
Reservations are not accepted at Fina. Guests should arrive early, well before typical meal times, to secure seating on a first-come, first-served basis.
Fili Café at NUSTAR offers an exceptional buffet experience for lunch and dinner, boasting an impressive selection of both Filipino dishes and international favorites. The buffet showcases the heart of Filipino cuisine with authentic specialties like savory adobo, tangy sinigang, and succulent lechon, all expertly prepared to honor tradition. Each dish is accompanied by freshly made sides—fragrant garlic rice, tangy atchara, and seasonal vegetables—that embody the vibrant flavors of the Philippines. An array of mouthwatering desserts, from creamy leche flan to chewy bibingka, celebrate local culinary heritage, while international cakes and pastries add a sophisticated touch.
The spacious, stylishly decorated dining area is home to an array of meticulously arranged buffet stations. Guests can explore a fresh seafood spread with oysters, shrimp, and local catch, or savor perfectly grilled meats and artisanal sausages. Filipino favorites take center stage, but the buffet also presents Asian stir-fries, aromatic curries, hearty Western roasts, and comforting pasta dishes. A lively salad and appetizer bar features crisp greens, vine-fresh tomatoes, artisanal cheese, and a selection of charcuterie and house-baked breads. The dessert section overflows with intricate pastries, petite cakes, and Filipino sweet treats, all beautifully displayed to tempt diners.
The atmosphere at Fili Café is energetic yet refined, with attentive staff ensuring every guest feels welcome. Thoughtful presentation and a focus on high-quality ingredients make it an ideal destination to indulge in cherished Filipino classics while sampling global cuisine in a vibrant, upscale setting.
The Executive Club
At the NUSTAR Hotel, the Executive Club promises an elevated dining experience exclusively for in-house guests. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by an intimate setting featuring chic contemporary design—complete with elegant furnishings, soft ambient lighting, and thoughtfully arranged seating suitable for both business conferences and casual relaxation. Personalized service is a hallmark, as staff cater to each guest’s culinary preferences, presenting a curated menu focused on refined international dishes crafted from premium ingredients and elegantly plated.
In the mornings, club guests are invited to a complimentary gourmet breakfast, complete with a rotating menu of global cuisines, fresh bakery selections, and a live cooking station. Afternoons bring an assortment of light refreshments and beverages, while evenings feature signature cocktails paired with delectable appetizers, all presented in a tranquil setting ideal for unwinding after a busy day.
Service throughout the day is attentive yet unobtrusive, with staff trained to remember guest preferences and subtle details that enhance each visit. With extended operating hours that begin early and conclude in the evening, the club offers flexibility for guests’ varying schedules. Compared to the resort’s bustling dining areas, the club maintains a serene and composed ambiance, ensuring guests enjoy a private and restful retreat.
NUSTAR Resort Restaurants
The resort boasts a diverse array of international restaurants, each offering unique culinary experiences from across the globe. Il Primo, under the expert guidance of Chef Luca Angioletti, specializes in refined Italian fare, featuring luxurious dishes such as A5-grade Japanese Wagyu and delicate Chilean sea bass Branzino, all served in an elegant setting that evokes the spirit of Italy.
Mott 32 introduces guests to the flavors of Hong Kong with its award-winning Cantonese cuisine. This upscale restaurant is celebrated for its innovative approach and mastery of sophisticated Chinese cooking techniques, presenting artfully plated dishes in a chic and modern environment.
For those craving classic Asian comfort food at any hour, Xin Tian Di offers a 24/7 dining experience within the vibrant atmosphere of the casino gaming floor. Its menu includes savory Cantonese roasts, an array of handcrafted dim sum, and distinctive Peranakan specialties like the richly flavored Singapore Laksa Lemak. Please note, access to Xin Tian Di is restricted to guests 21 years or older.
Kazuwa transports diners to Japan with an authentic Japanese dining journey, featuring skillful hibachi-style food preparation performed tableside. Guests consistently praise the restaurant for its fresh ingredients and meticulous culinary techniques, rivaling high-end Japanese establishments abroad.
The resort also caters to a spectrum of tastes with venues like Good Luck Hot Pot, where guests participate in interactive dining by cooking fresh meats and seafood in bubbling broths, and Barcino, offering a taste of the Mediterranean through vibrant Spanish-inspired dishes and select wines. However, guests should be aware that service times at some venues can vary, particularly during peak hours.
Most restaurants accept reservations to ensure a seamless dining experience, with Il Primo recommending bookings made several days in advance due to high demand. In contrast, casino-floor establishments like Xin Tian Di operate exclusively on a first-come, first-served basis.
Room Service and In-Room Dining
NUSTAR’s room service offers an extensive menu featuring selections from multiple restaurant concepts, allowing guests to enjoy various cuisines in the comfort of their rooms. The in-room dining menu showcases both international and local favorites, so guests can try signature dishes from across the resort’s restaurants. Delivery times vary depending on order complexity and occupancy.
Room service is generally available throughout the day and into the evening, while premium suites receive additional benefits like expanded menus and priority delivery. Orders are placed through in-room phones or guest services, and staff coordinate closely with restaurant teams to maintain the high food standards of the original venues.
Leisure and Wellness Facilities
Infinity Pool
The hotel boasts two unique pool areas on separate levels. The Leisure Park Pools on Level 5 feature two expansive adult pools, each 26 meters across, and a dedicated kiddie splash pool for families. Guests can take in panoramic views of Cebu City from 60 meters above sea level while enjoying drinks and light meals from the poolside bar, available throughout the day. The pools operate daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
For those seeking a more peaceful experience, the NUSTAR Pool on Level 4 provides a tranquil environment, ideal for reading or lounging in the sun. Access to both pool areas is exclusive to hotel guests, and smoking is prohibited throughout. Refreshments can be requested at the Level 4 pool.
Fully Equipped Gym
Open 24 hours exclusively to hotel guests, the fitness center provides a selection of state-of-the-art cardio and strength training equipment. Modern treadmills, elliptical trainers, and weight machines cater to all fitness levels. Designed for a peaceful and focused experience, the gym offers both cardiovascular and muscle-building options. Guests can enjoy complimentary access at any time of the day or night.
Spa and Relaxation Services
Hagod Spa welcomes guests daily from 11:00 AM to 12:00 midnight, offering massage treatments, rejuvenating facials, and cleansing body scrubs in dedicated treatment rooms. For added convenience, in-room massage services are available until 2:00 AM, catering to different schedules and preferences.
Focusing on stress relief and relaxation, the spa provides a peaceful haven away from the noise of the city. Reservations should be made in advance via the hotel’s spa email service. Both hotel guests and external visitors are welcome during regular operating hours.
Entertainment and Casino Offerings
On-Site Casino Features
The casino at NUSTAR offers a comprehensive gaming experience with extensive floor space dedicated to various gambling options. Guests can find modern slot machines and traditional table games throughout the gaming area.
The casino operates with professional dealers and gaming staff. Players have access to different betting limits to accommodate various budgets and preferences.
Gaming facilities include:
- Slot machines with different denominations
- Table games like blackjack and baccarat
- Electronic gaming options
- VIP gaming areas for high-limit play
The casino maintains standard operating hours with security and surveillance systems in place. Air conditioning and comfortable seating areas are provided throughout the gaming floor.
Family-Friendly Entertainment
The Axis Entertainment and Sports Bar serves as the main non-gaming entertainment venue. This space features live performances, sports viewing, and a social atmosphere for guests who prefer alternatives to casino gaming.
The resort includes an on-site cinema with luxury seating and modern sound systems. Movie screenings provide entertainment for families and guests seeking relaxation away from the gaming areas.
Additional entertainment options include:
- Skydeck viewing platform with panoramic views
- Boardwalk and wharf areas for evening strolls
- Live entertainment events at various venues
- Sports viewing with large screen displays
These amenities create entertainment choices for visitors who want activities beyond the casino floor while staying at the resort.
Complimentary WiFi and Connectivity
NUSTAR Hotel offers complimentary WiFi access throughout all guest rooms, public spaces, and facilities, with no additional fees. The network delivers stable speeds for both work and entertainment—guests can stream, join video calls, or complete tasks with ease. Connecting is straightforward through a simple authentication process, and front desk staff provide technical support if needed. Multiple devices per room are supported, making it easy for families or business travelers to stay online without extra charges.
Accessibility and Transportation
The hotel sits on Kawit Island with direct access via the 8.9-kilometer CCLEX bridge. This location provides stunning views of both Cebu City and Cordova while maintaining convenient transportation links.
Airport transfers take approximately 30 minutes via the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway. The bridge connection, which opened in 2022, eliminates previous transportation challenges to the area.
Transportation options include:
- Private vehicle access via CCLEX
- Hotel shuttle services
- Taxi and ride-sharing availability
- Airport transfer arrangements
The island location offers both city accessibility and resort-style privacy. Guests can easily reach Cebu City attractions while enjoying a more secluded hotel environment.
Business and Event Facilities
NUSTAR Hotel caters to corporate travelers with comprehensive business amenities, offering dedicated spaces for meetings, conferences, and events of various sizes. Modern technology, including audio-visual equipment and high-speed internet, supports smooth presentations and video conferences.
Event planning services assist organizers in coordinating and executing events, with staff customizing arrangements based on group size and specific requirements. The facilities are suitable for both private business meetings and large corporate gatherings, while catering services provide refreshments and full meals as needed.
Overall Review
My recent staycation experience at NUSTAR Hotel Cebu was nothing short of luxurious. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with warm Filipino hospitality and a seamless check-in process. My room was spacious, modern, and beautifully designed, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views of the sea.
The amenities were top-notch—everything from the deep soaking tub to the plush bedding made my stay incredibly comfortable. Dining was a highlight, especially at Fili Café, where the buffet spread impressed me with its variety and quality. What stood out most was the personalized service; every staff member went out of their way to make me feel welcome. Overall, NUSTAR Hotel Cebu exceeded my expectations and made my trip to Cebu truly memorable.
NUSTAR Hotel Cebu
Address: Kawit Island, South Road Properties, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines
Telephone: (032) 888 8282
Email: [email protected]
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REVIEW: NUSTAR Hotel Cebu
Melo Villareal
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