BY AIRA MIRANDA

For 28 years, CIBO has been a go-to for Filipinos craving honest-to-goodness Italian home-style cooking. From its humble beginnings in 1997, the restaurant has grown into a dining institution, serving fresh, simple, and quality fare while becoming a backdrop to countless family gatherings, friendly catch-ups, and romantic dates. This year’s anniversary isn’t just a celebration of longevity—it’s a heartfelt tribute to its late founder, culinary icon Margarita Forés, and a promise to keep her legacy alive for generations to come.

“This year’s anniversary is unlike any other,” said Bledes Forés-Legarda, Margarita’s sister, during a speech. “She built CIBO from the ground up with so much heart, soul, and purpose. Today, we remember the chef, the visionary, the passionate spirit behind it all.”

Her son, Amado Forés, now CEO of AF Hospitality, credits CIBO’s staying power to “consistency—the same quality of food and service my mom started.”

“We’ve decided to bring back some of the dishes my mom created while introducing new ones that excite our customers,” he added.

The milestone was officially marked on August 5, 2025, with a celebratory event that brought together loyal patrons, first-timers, and the CIBO team. Guests were treated to a preview of the limited-edition anniversary menu and invited to try the bold Tubettoni alla Nduja (P649 solo)—a spicy, creamy pasta with Nduja sausage and burrata—and the indulgent Nduja Pizza (P799), rich with mozzarella and Southern Italian spice. The sweet finale came in the form of seasonal pastries: the banana cream-filled Turon Bomboloni and the vibrant Ube Maritozzo (P129 each, P549 for an assorted box).

Beyond the food, the day was filled with interactive fun, guests played games, won prizes, and got a first taste of CIBO’s new loyalty perks. 

Two major programs were relaunched as part of the celebration: 'Club Bimbi', now available in all stores, offers kids 12 and below their own membership with perks like a free meal for every P2,000 dine-in spend. Graduating members automatically join the upgraded 'LEALTÀ Loyalty Program', which rewards patrons with up to 30% off on select days, birthday treats, and exclusive offers for dine-in, take-out, and delivery.

The festivities extend beyond the anniversary day with nationwide promos, including the 'Always CIBO Raffle' (P2,800 single-receipt spend to win prizes like a Vespa, Smeg appliances, or a year’s worth of CIBO), P28 Favorites on August 22, P28 Iced Teas until September 30, and 28% Off Delivery through CIBO’s official channels.

As Amado puts it, “We’re keeping my mom’s vision alive—mixing the dishes she started with exciting new ones. That’s what makes CIBO, CIBO.” And in true Margarita Forés fashion, the pasta still waits for no one.