Axl Dave Bibingka Davao de Oro is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about food destinations in Nabunturan. The newly opened branch reminds visitors of the famous Texas-based Buc-ee’s, known for its massive travel centers and wide variety of food selections.

Last year, I traveled to the United States to see my two sisters. After spending over a month with Elena Chase, who now lives in Minnesota, we flew together to Florida to visit our sister Marilou Eplite. While we were there, the three of us made the decision to visit our aunt, Adelaida Day, who now lives in Savannah, Georgia.

During our journey there – in a glitzy vehicle driven by David, Marilou’s husband – we made a stop at Buc-ee’s, a Texas-based chain of large travel centers recognized for its numerous fuel pumps, exceptionally clean restrooms, and a diverse selection of merchandise and food.

You may be wondering why I mention Bub-ee’s here? Because that was the first thing that came to my mind when I joined the grand opening of the larger and more elegant Axl Dave Bibingka, situated in New Sibonga in Nabunturan, Davao de Oro. The only thing lacking though is the gas stations.

But I was truly amazed by the variety of delectable treats and enticing delicacies showcased at the Pasalubong Center. The durian delicacies are available in numerous forms: durian bars, durian candies, toasted pastillas durian, durian coffee yema, durian buko pandan yema, durian macaroons, and durian spread.

It also offers various cacao products: tablea, spicy and crunchy sweetened nibs, hot chocolate mix, and various chocolates. Peanuts are presented in several options: peanut turon, coated peanuts, bukayo with peanut, peñato, salted peanuts, spicy peanuts, cheese-coated peanuts, mixed peanuts, peanut brittles, skinless peanuts with garlic, and special milky nuts.

Treats and delicacies from other regions are also featured: Otap, mamon tostado, pilipit, piaya (which is available in different flavors: mangosteen, durian, and ube), banana cake, toasted cashew pastillas, coconut bukayo, cashew nuts, pili nuts, roasted pistachios, and sunflower seeds.

Filipinos acquainted with these delicacies are sure to appreciate them: pork and tuna chicharon, butcheron, fish crackers, cornick barbecue, polvoron, Jopoy’s hopia ube, pinasugbo, and banana and camote crackers.

For those who enjoy hot beverages during rainy days or early mornings, you may choose from the following options in addition to the choco mix and tablea: salabat powder (unsweetened), guyabano alternative corn coffee, and turmeric tea plus. It is advisable not to sweeten these drinks with sugar; instead, consider adding organic mountain honey.

You might observe that I did not mention coffee. This is due to the fact that it is available at OnCue Coffee, situated on the left side of the new building. Here, customers can savor their coffee in an air-conditioned room. The coffee being prepared is sourced from local growers in town.

Irena Garcia, who had tried the drink, wrote in her social media account: “Strong, rich, and tastes like pure quality – reminds me so much of the coffee in Australia. Best sip in Davao de Oro.”

Given that Axl Dave Bibingka is positioned along the national highway, travelers have the opportunity to stop by and dine at the restaurant, which is located on the right side of the building. In this establishment, guests can satisfy their hungry appetites with a variety of popular Filipino dishes that are both affordable and delicious.

The building boasts a classy design and features function rooms on the second floor. The dining area is both conducive and sophisticated. More importantly, it offers amenities similar to those found at Buc-ee’s, including clean restrooms.

OnCue is managed by the eldest son, Axl Dave, who is married to Guia Lunio, and they have a daughter named Savannah Scarlette. Meanwhile, the restaurant is supervised by the second son, who also bears the name Axl Dave.

The Pasalubong Center is managed by Kerch Xander Maravillas, the mother who’s originally from Magsaysay, Davao del Sur. She is married to Raul Maravillas. They have a third son also named Axl Dave.

Axl Dave Bibingka began its journey in 2000 as a humble sidewalk venture. Despite its unpretentious nature, it swiftly became popular among travelers from Davao City to Butuan.

It is renowned for its authentic bibingka, a traditional rice cake. The commitment of Maravillas to crafting high-quality bibingka has not only led to a successful business but has also established their reputation as skilled artisans within the community.

“Their bibingka will not spoil quickly and remains soft even several days after being cooked,” said Ishi Arcee Pee-Ay Javelona, adding that it is very delicious.