Lyma Siargao

Lyma is the one you book when someone’s birthday needs a proper sit-down and you don’t want to explain to your friend group why you’re eating off a banana leaf on the beach again. It’s tucked behind an alley you’d never find on your own, and the room does that fine-dining-meets-island thing without tipping into stiff. Groups do well here too, they sat 14 of us without it feeling like a wedding reception. Get the tuna cardo, the ceviche, and the catch of the day, in that order if you’re only doing three. The wagyu shows up too and earns its price tag, and the slow-cooked beef cheeks are worth the wait if you’re not in a rush. Ask for Tantan if he’s on shift, he’ll steer your wine and your mains better than the menu will, and pours by the glass beyond the usual one safe option when things are running properly. It’s not cheap and it’s not trying to be, so if you want beachfront and a bucket of San Mig, go elsewhere. Go on a night when there’s nothing loud next door, the outdoor sound bleeds and it can mess with the vibe you’re paying for. When it’s on, it’s the best plated meal on the island; when the kitchen’s having an off night, you’ll notice, so don’t go in starving with sky-high expectations on day one of your trip.