David Licauco Pambansang Ginoo — it’s a title fans have lovingly given him, thanks to his breakout roles in Maria Clara at Ibarra and Pulang Araw. But beyond the dashing looks and magnetic screen presence, there’s another side to Licauco: the sharp-minded entrepreneur behind Sobra Café, a homegrown Filipino restaurant quietly redefining comfort food.
At the newly launched second branch of Sobra Café in Opus Mall, David welcomed us with his signature mix of humility and wit, ready to take on the first-ever edition of Simpol.ph’s “50 Simpol Questions.” What followed was a candid, often playful interview that revealed the routines, cravings, and convictions that make up the man behind the moniker.
From Actor to Restauranteur: Building the Sobra Café Brand
What’s the first thing the Pambansang Ginoo thinks about when he wakes up? “I try not to think,” David joked. “But usually, the first thought is always business.” That drive is reflected in the steady rise of Sobra Café, where he plays a hands-on role — especially in creating the cozy, personal ambiance that regulars have come to love.
Visit Sobra Café in BGC or Opus Mall and taste David’s favorite tapa for yourself.
Inside Sobra, fan-made artworks of his most iconic characters — Fidel, Hiroshi, and Carding — line the walls. “Sobrang na-appreciate ko,” he said, touched by the gesture. This attention to detail and connection with community is what sets Sobra apart from the usual café chain.
Read more about how David started his food business on Why David Licauco is Sobra and More.
Coffee Over Milk Tea, Always
David doesn’t follow food trends — he follows flavor and feeling. A self-confessed coffee lover, he admitted he prefers a strong brew to a cup of milk tea any day. His food preferences are equally simple and wholesome — sometimes, by his own admission, even “bland.”
But when it comes to comfort food, there’s one clear winner: Sobra’s beef tapa. “Sweet and salty minsan,” he said proudly. The dish is a crowd favorite: tender beef marinated in a soy-sugar blend, caramelized on the grill, and served with garlic rice and a runny egg — a Filipino almusal classic that feels like home.
A Balanced Life — And a Soft Spot for Dessert
Even with a packed schedule and upcoming appearances like the Bench show, David is disciplined about his health. “Right now, diet,” he said. But he has a weakness for one sweet indulgence: molten lava cake with ice cream. “May ice cream sa top,” he said, grinning. The contrast of warm and cold, soft and crisp — Sobrang sarap.
Storytelling, Soundtracks, and Sentimentality
His taste in entertainment mirrors his real-life passions. Business-themed stories like The Founder and Itaewon Class top his watchlist. For music, it’s OPM favorites like Hale and mellow tracks like “Alone Together.”
Read about David’s own single onSurprise! David Licauco Can Sing: Catch His New Single “I Think I Love You”
Dream destination? Australia. Travel go-to? Window seat. Most random thing he brought home from a trip? “Feelings,” he replied, half-joking, half-serious.
On Relationships, Growth, and Grounded Success
When it comes to love, David values joy and depth. “I fall for girls who are happy, love life, and are emotionally intelligent,” he shared. As for the most unexpected compliment? “‘Mabait ka pala.’ People think I’m suplado.”
He also offered heartfelt advice for those going through heartbreak:
“Closure is important. Just wait, be patient, and distract yourself.” Spoken like someone who’s lived — and learned — through it.
Reinvention, Simplicity, and the Sobra Café Vision
David Licauco may be known as the Pambansang Ginoo, but in truth, he’s constantly evolving. “Now, I’m an actor, entrepreneur, and I run Sobra Café,” he reflected. “A lot of people were surprised na naging successful ako.” But his secret isn’t flashy — it’s focus, detail, and heart.
This episode of Simpol’s “50 Simpol Questions” captures just that: the journey of a young actor building something real, brick by brick, cup by cup, plate by plate.
Want to see more of David’s charming quirks?
Watch the full episode of ‘50 Simpol Questions’ — only on Simpol.ph.
