Metastatic cancer presenting as a cervical cyst is uncommon, and often misdiagnosed as branchial cleft cyst. Authors experienced two cases which presented clinically with features of branchial cleft cyst, but were subsequently found to be metastatic cancer. Radiologic examination and fine needle aspiration biopsy proved to be non-diagnostic, and pathologic findings after surgical excision showed metastatic cancer. Further evaluation and examination were made to find out the primary focus, which revealed tonsillar squamous cell cancer and thyroid papillary cancer in each case. When cervical cysts are noted in aged patients, it is mandatory to rule out metastatic cancer until it is proven otherwise. Surgical excision and pathologic diagnosis should be always accompanied to make correct diagnosis and further treatment.