Canvas, A Feast of the Senses

The first of its kind to boast of high-class, freshly made modern Australian dining choices, ranging from vegetarian pastas and risottos, fresh cold cuts, seafood, tapas, salads, coffees and teas and a wide array of wines. Canvas Bistro, Bar & Gallery is a gourmet destination for those with delicate taste buds and a keen eye for culinary artistry – not only rich, flavorful and delicious, but meticulously handcrafted as well.

Back in 2009, Canvas Bistro, Bar & Gallery opened their doors to take Cebu’s culinary scene to the next level. Owned and supervised by Executive Chef Steve Shrimski and his Cebuana wife, Eya. A native of Sydney, Australia Chef Steve cooked his way up in top hotels both in Australia and Asia. His wife, Eya completes Chef Steve’s brand of cookery with her management expertise in food and beverage – ensuring that the food is popular for its quality in taste, presentation and a sense of balance for the health and well being of the guests.

Laid back and without attitude, the sophisticated yet casual allure of Canvas seamlessly blends simplicity with modern elegance creating a sleek, industrial look. The place has a homey feel to it as the interiors are filled with modern furnishings and soft lighting. As a smart casual restaurant and bar to hang out, Canvas suits a variety of moods from outdoor seating to intimate indoor areas.

Canvas is a relaxed dining space with a menu that is as no fuss as the space itself. The watering menu features a fusion of modern Aussie favorites and Asian new twists. One of which is their Shrimp and Beansprout “Ukoy” Fritters with a Garlic and Coconut Vinegar Dip from their tasty tapas selection, a semi-sweet appetizing snack to start your meal. Their juicy Pork Medallions brown beautifully with a Grain Mustard Sauce and Tiger Prawn and a toss of Pesto Fettucine. One of their famed pasta recipes which delivers their delicious take on a local super-food, Malunggay, is their Spinach and Forest Mushroom Penne Pasta flavored with Malunggay Pesto and Crispy Garlic. As a side to your main course or as another option for a light lunch, they offer Green Salad with Cranberries, Roast Cashers, Quesong Puti and Macadamia Dressing. Punctuate your meal with their freshest drinks like their popular brewed iced tea.

Apart from being a smart, casual restaurant, Canvas is also a bar that features a fine selection of wine, beers and spirits. Twisted cocktails and non-alcoholic tonics are also available to rejuvenate the minds and bodies. As a gallery, it holds regular exhibits displaying works by local artists that change every 6-8 weeks. They also pursue small group functions in house and outside catering events for both private and corporate events.

Though often viewed as a fine dining, up market restaurant and expensive, it is casual dining with food that is unpretentious that’s quite simple yet carefully prepared with reasonable pricing. With efficient service, they serve a unique mix of tradition and ingenuity, making each dish from scratch using only the finest ingredients.

From pan to plate, it’s simply irresistible. This is Canvas – redefining what a dining experience should be. Drop by at Canvas Bistro, Bar and Gallery at the 2nd Level, The Terraces, Ayala Center Cebu. For reservations, contact (032) 417 1978.

Chill out, drink up and enjoy a feast of the senses. Everyone’s invited.

Spinach and Forest Mushroom Penne Pasta with Malunggay Pesto and Crispy Garlic (Photo by MetroCebu News)

Tapas Selection Shrimp and Beansprout, Ukoy Fritters, Garlic and Coconut Vinegar Dip (Photo by MetroCebu News)

The staff behind Canvas Bistro, Bar and Gallery. (Photo by MetroCebu News)