Bohol — Perched atop Dayo Hill in Dauis, Zara’s Cafe is a serene hilltop escape that brings authentic Swedish fika culture to the heart of Panglao. Owned by a Swedish-Filipino family, the cafe is celebrated for its spectacular 180-degree panoramic views of Tagbilaran City and the surrounding sea, creating a breathtaking backdrop for their signature cardamom cakes, cinnamon rolls, and traditional waffles topped with homemade blueberry jam. Beyond the sweets, guests can indulge in fresh sourdough sandwiches like the Skagen toast, European-style pastas, and artisanal gelato crafted from tropical fruits harvested directly from their own balcony. Whether you visit for a midday coffee or to watch the sky turn golden around 5:00 PM from their romantic wooden balcony, Zara’s offers a unique, tranquil dining experience that stands out from the island's bustling beach scene.
Visitor Logistics and Expert Navigation
Located at Purok 7, Dayo Hill Road, Mayacabac, the cafe is open Wednesday through Monday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with a strict closure every Tuesday. Because the cafe is situated on a steep incline with a narrow, 3-meter-wide driveway, navigation requires careful planning. While scooters and motorcycles can drive directly to the entrance, the onsite parking for four-wheel vehicles is limited to just four slots; first-time visitors in larger cars are strongly advised to park along the main barangay road and enjoy the short, two-minute walk to the entrance. To ensure a smooth arrival, keep an eye out for the physical Zara’s Cafe signage along the road leading toward Bohol Plaza rather than relying solely on GPS, as digital maps occasionally misroute travelers through a neighboring resort.
