“A good meal is one that satisfies all the senses. …More than just looking good, it has to taste good…match the setting… More important for me, it should be enjoyed with someone.” —Larry J. Cruz The LJC Restaurant Group When Larry J. Cruz opened Café Adriatico in Malate, Manila in 1979, little did he know that he would be revolutionizing the restaurant industry in the country. Café Adriatico became the destination of choice among Manila’s who’s who. It served good food and offered warm and friendly service in a charming old world ambience. On the strength of this first venture, LJC founded the LJC Restaurant Group. And from this initial foray into the hospitality business, more themed restaurants opened, some already gone, but many still bastions of good food and the good life. Today The LJC Restaurant Group, which bears his initials, includes Café Adriatico,Cafe Adriatico Express, Abe, Café Havana, Bistro Remedios, Fely J’s Kitchen, Larry’s Café and Bar, Lorenzo’s Way, Polka Dot Bakeshop, Abe’s Farm and The LJC Catering Service.