Where to Find Imported Goods in Cebu

A Complete Guide for Expats, Foodies, and International Shoppers

Cebu is one of the fastest-growing urban centers in Southeast Asia. With its influx of tourists, foreign professionals, and long-term expats, the demand for international products has steadily increased. Whether you’re a Japanese parent looking for natto, a European digital nomad craving cheese, or a health-conscious shopper hunting for almond milk, Cebu has more options than ever before. This guide walks you through the best places to find imported goods in Cebu, from big supermarkets to niche grocers and online platforms.

1. High-End Supermarkets with Global Sections

Rustan’s Supermarket (Ayala Center Cebu)

Rustan’s Supermarket is well-known for its premium imported goods. Located in Ayala Center Cebu, this supermarket is the first stop for many expats searching for Western and Asian products. Though prices are higher, the selection is unmatched.

You’ll find:

• European cheeses (brie, camembert, gouda)

• American breakfast cereals and snacks

• Australian beef and lamb

• Japanese condiments and rice

• Wines, chocolates, and artisanal coffee

Robinsons Selections (Fuente & Galleria)

This upscale version of Robinsons Supermarket also carries a wide range of imports. It’s slightly more affordable than Rustan’s and often carries seasonal items from abroad, such as Christmas hams, Chinese New Year snacks, and Thanksgiving ingredients.

Recommended for:

• Imported pasta, sauces, and oils

• Frozen dumplings and seafood from Korea and Japan

• Household cleaning products from the U.S.

• International skincare and hygiene products

S&R Membership Shopping (Mandaue)

S&R is a warehouse-style grocery similar to Costco. Membership is required (₱700/year), but it’s worth it if you regularly shop for imported items or in bulk. S&R is extremely popular with expat families and local professionals.

Hot items include:

• Kirkland brand products

• U.S.-made chips, cookies, and frozen pizza

• International liquor and wine

• Imported laundry detergent and personal care items

2. Health and Organic Goods

Healthy Options (Ayala & SM Seaside)

Healthy Options is the go-to place for organic, non-GMO, and allergen-free products. All of their goods are imported, making it a reliable source for difficult-to-find items.

Best for:

• Gluten-free and dairy-free alternatives

• Vegan snacks and non-dairy milk

• Organic vitamins and supplements

• Natural skincare, toothpaste, and deodorant

If you’re someone with food allergies or looking to maintain a strict diet, Healthy Options is a lifesaver.

3. Asian Grocery Stores

Korean Marts (Seoul Mart, Kim’s Mart, Han Kook Mart)

Korean marts are everywhere in Cebu—especially in areas like Lahug, Banilad, and Mandaue. These shops cater to both Korean expats and locals interested in K-culture. The stores are stocked with everything from Korean beef to ramen and beauty products.

Expect to find:

• Gochujang, doenjang, and sesame oil

• Frozen Korean BBQ meats

• Korean snacks and drinks

• K-beauty brands such as Innisfree and Etude House

Chinese and Pan-Asian Stores (Asian Food Depot, Hong Kong Store)

Located in downtown Cebu and Mandaue, these stores carry items for Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisine. You’ll find hard-to-get spices, noodles, teas, and sauces.

Good finds include:

• Thai curry paste and jasmine rice

• Chinese sausages and soy-based items

• Vietnamese fish sauce and spring roll wrappers

• Herbal teas and traditional Chinese medicine

Japanese Specialty Stores (Machiya Mart, Daiso, Fuji Mart)

Previously, many people assumed that Don Quijote existed in Cebu—but it does not. Instead, Machiya Mart is Cebu’s most reliable Japanese specialty grocer. With branches in IT Park and Banawa, they carry authentic Japanese food, drinks, kitchen tools, and household items.

Available at Machiya Mart:

• Natto, miso, and soy sauce

• Japanese curry and ramen packs

• Rice crackers, mochi, and Pocky

• Japanese cosmetics and hygiene products

• Cooking tools like bento boxes and chopsticks

Fuji Mart in Banilad is another local favorite for frozen items and Japanese rice, while Daiso focuses on budget-friendly lifestyle goods and accessories.

4. European and Western Delis & Bakeries

Abaca Baking Company

Abaca Baking Company sources many of its ingredients from abroad to craft sourdough bread, bagels, and croissants. Their cafés also offer imported teas, cured meats, and cheeses.

Tymad Bistro (Banilad)

Run by a French chef, Tymad offers authentic French pastries and imported wines. Their cheese selection includes favorites like roquefort, emmental, and brie. It’s an excellent spot for a European-style brunch or to stock up on deli goods.

La Vie Parisienne (Lahug)

This French-inspired deli and wine bar imports directly from Europe. Their wine cellar is extensive, and their cheese-and-bread selection is a favorite among European expats.

5. Home & Lifestyle Imports

True Value / Ace Hardware (Ayala, SM)

These U.S.-style hardware and home goods stores carry imported kitchen appliances, storage solutions, tools, and toiletries.

You’ll find brands like:

• Rubbermaid

• SimpleHuman

• Cuisinart

• Black & Decker

Miniso / Japan Home / Mumuso

While these chains aren’t purely import-focused, they do carry trendy and practical items inspired by Japanese and Korean design—often made in China but with international aesthetics.

6. Wine, Spirits, and Gourmet Imports

Bibendum Wines (IT Park, Banilad)

This boutique wine shop is a favorite for imported wines and premium spirits. The staff is knowledgeable and offers tasting events. Great for corporate gifting or personal indulgence.

Vino Enoteca (Crossroads, Banilad)

If Italian food and wine are your passion, this is the place. They offer hand-picked wines, artisanal cheeses, pasta, and truffle products—perfect for dinner parties or romantic nights in.

Landmark Cellar (Mandani Bay)

An upscale choice for fine wines, single malt whiskies, and champagnes. Ideal for collectors and high-end customers.

7. Online Platforms for Imported Goods

Lazada & Shopee

These platforms allow you to order imported items from sellers across Southeast Asia and beyond. Look for listings that say “Shipped from Overseas” and check reviews for quality and authenticity.

Popular categories:

• K-beauty and J-beauty skincare

• International health supplements

• Imported snacks, cereals, and instant food

• Fashion and electronics

MetroMart / PandaMart

Use these grocery delivery services to order from Robinsons, Rustan’s, and S&R. Useful for weekly restocks without going to the mall.

iHerb (Global)

Ideal for vitamins, organic groceries, and beauty products. They ship directly to Cebu, and packages typically arrive within 7–10 days.

8. Airport Duty-Free Shops

Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA T1 & T2)

If you’re flying internationally, take advantage of the airport’s duty-free shops for:

• International liquor and tobacco

• Foreign-brand cosmetics and perfumes

• Gourmet chocolates and snacks

Though pricey, they are a convenient last resort for imported gifts or luxury goods.

9. Facebook Groups and Expat Networks

Word-of-mouth is often the most effective tool. Cebu’s expat community frequently shares sources for hard-to-find items. Some expats even coordinate bulk orders for imported cheese, halal meat, or kosher wine.

Join groups like:

• Cebu Expat Community

• Japanese in Cebu

• Buy & Sell Imported Goods Cebu

• Cebu Healthy Living

You’ll find tips, deals, and community-sourced importers.

Tips for Import Shoppers in Cebu

• Bring your own bag: Many stores have a plastic ban.

• Check expiry dates: Especially for imported dairy and frozen items.

• Ask staff for restock schedules: Imports may arrive monthly or quarterly.

• Compare prices: One product may vary greatly in cost between stores.

• Join membership programs: For discounts at S&R, Healthy Options, etc.

Final Thoughts

Cebu has come a long way in making international living more accessible. While it’s not yet on the level of Tokyo or Singapore when it comes to import availability, the city continues to grow and attract international retailers and suppliers. From niche Japanese grocers like Machiya Mart to bulk retailers like S&R and global delivery platforms like iHerb, your options for imported goods in Cebu are wide—and getting wider.

Whether you’re craving Korean ramen, French cheese, American peanut butter, or Japanese miso, Cebu offers a growing landscape of opportunities to live globally while enjoying the warmth and hospitality of the Philippines.