Aysee, a name synonymous with delectable sisig in Metro Manila for over three decades, is set to tantalize the taste buds of Cebuanos with the grand opening of its first Visayan branch. Established in 1986, Aysee has garnered a loyal following for its authentic Kapampangan take on the classic Filipino dish, and now, Cebu City will finally get a taste.
From its humble beginnings as a grocery store in Pasig City, Aysee’s story is one of passion and culinary heritage. Owner Daisy Alian Bulus, a Kapampangan native, was inspired by the requests of PBA players, including Coach Yangga, to cook and serve her family’s traditional recipes. “My first customers were the PBA players of RFM,” recalls Bulus. “If they won the game, they would eat unlimited food from us.”
(L-R) Nikolin Bulus, Regan King, Daisy Bulus, Andre Suarez, Frank Oliva and Jonathan King
Today, those same cherished recipes, passed down from Bulus’ mother, form the heart of Aysee’s menu. Aysee’s signature dish, the Kapampangan Sisig, is renowned for its perfectly crispy texture, savory flavors, and generous portions.
“Our customers tell us that Aysee Sisig is comfort food,” says Bulus. “You’ll look for it and come back for it. And you can eat a lot because it’s not boring.”
Beyond the sisig, Aysee also offers other Kapampangan favorites like Papaitan Baka, Bistek Tagalog, and Crispy Pork. These dishes evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding many of their college days or past Manila experiences.
“It’s nostalgic. Food is nostalgic. It’s comforting. It’s good food. And we made sure that it is affordable,” adds Frank Oliva, Aysee’s Managing Partner.
The decision to expand to Cebu was driven by the desire to share authentic Kapampangan cuisine with a wider audience.
“There are a lot of folks in Cebu, Cebuanos that graduated UA&P, Ateneo, UP, and those who worked in Manila. They all know the brand,” explains Oliva. “This is for them. But for me personally, the reason why I said yes to this offer is because I love Kapampangan food. Kapampangan food is the best. And I want to bring real Tagalog food to Cebu,” he said.
Aysee Cebu will feature the same menu as its Manila branches, ensuring the same high quality and taste that patrons have come to expect. To maintain consistency, Aysee has flown in their Manila-based chefs, who will be stationed in Cebu. The restaurant also plans to introduce new dishes quarterly to keep the menu fresh and exciting. Adding to the vibrant dining experience, Aysee Cebu will feature live performances of original Filipino music on weekends.
“My message to my big-time loyal customers of Cebu is to come here to Aysee Cebu,” invites Bulus. “I’d like to invite you all guys to come and relive those nostalgic days during college, when you were in Manila. Relive those days of good comfort food here in Aysee,” she said.
Members of the Cebu Online News Press Corps with Mr. Frank Oliva
Aysee invites everyone to experience the authentic flavors of Kapampangan cuisine and Northern Luzon at their newest location. The brand plans to continue its expansion throughout the Philippines, introducing more Filipinos to the unique culinary treasures of Pampanga.
Aysee Cebu is located in Vibo Place, Escario St., Cebu City. It has seating capacity for 50 customers. Its operating hours are 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM on weekdays and 10:00 AM to 1:00 AM on weekends.
