5 MUST EATS in Cebu, Philippines
Dreaming of traveling to the Philippines? I feel you! A country full of rich culture, history– and not to mention, the most beautiful beaches and islands you’ll ever lay your eyes on, traveling to the Philippines is a getaway of a lifetime.
On that note, make sure to stop by Cebu on your trip. Dubbed as the Queen City of the South, Cebu is one of the top tourist destinations in the country.
Of course, your trip wouldn’t be complete if you don’t try their famous local cuisine. Cebu is a paradise for food lovers, as food is central to a full Cebuano experience!
In this article, I’m going to give you a taste of some of the must-try delicacies in Cebu, so you have something to look forward to on your trip!
1. Sugba
Sugba means grilling in Cebuano, and you’ll find that Cebuano barbecue is unlike anything you’ve tasted before. There are many famous hawker stalls in the city to choose from, but two of the most popular stalls are Larsian and Matias.
These open-air eateries feature rows of stalls selling all kinds of barbecued meat– from pork, chicken, seafood, chorizo, and even animal innards. Sugba is very affordable– the reason it’s a must-eat favorite among locals and a must-try for travelers looking for inexpensive Cebuano meals!
2. Ginabot
Ginabot is basically Cebu’s take on Chicharon Bulaklak, a famous Filipino appetizer. In Cebu, you’ll find that there are mini stalls on the side of the streets, called Pungko-Pungko, selling this dish as a complete meal.
Ginabot is made from pork mesentery, salted then deep-fried until crispy and golden brown. It’s best paired with puso, or rice cooked inside a casing of coconut leaves, and a tasty dipping sauce spiced to perfection.
This dish comes very cheap and also not advised to people with a history of heart problems and high cholesterol levels as this dish is mostly made from fat.
But if you’re just looking for some crunch, you have to try Ginabot.
3. Tuslob Buwa
This famous Cebuano street food may not suit everyone’s palate, but you’ll be surprised how tasty and savory it is once you try it out for yourself.
Tuslob Buwa is basically dipping Puso in a boiling mixture of pork brain and liver. The brain and liver are mashed and sauteed in aromatics such as garlic, onion, and shrimp paste, and then cooked in lard or oil.
It’s an exotic delicacy that will melt all your fears away, but again, not suitable for those faint at heart. You can easily find Tuslob Buwa in Cebu as most eateries and restaurants sell this dish, like in Carbon or Pasil.
4. Pochero
Now, if you’re looking for comfort food, then Pochero is another one of Cebu’s must-eats. The dish is a variant of beef stew that may be associated with the Bulalo dish in other parts of the Philippines.
Pochero is a hearty stew initially made with beef shanks, cabbage, onion, potatoes, and peppercorn. However, you’ll find that some restaurants add other veggies of their choice to the dish, such as string beans, pechay, and even carrots.
This dish is best eaten during the rainy season when it’s cold outside, and you need something hot and hearty to warm your feet. There is also a sizzling version of this dish, where instead of broth, the meat and veggies are served in a sizzling plate drizzled with lots of beef gravy.
5. Cebu Lechon
Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete if I don’t include the world-famous Cebu Lechon. It’s a region trademark, as they are known for serving the most delicious roasted pig in the country.
The recipe is a local secret, and very hard to replicate. You may find roasting joints in other parts of the country advertising their lechon to be the same quality and taste in Cebu, but you’ll always walk away disappointed.
With its crispy skin, tender meat, and meat juices oozing from every bite, Cebu Lechon is not just a must-try; it’s a requirement. Many travelers can even bring this dish as a souvenir back home, as many lechon restaurants offer travel-proof takeout.
Getting There
Conclusion
Are you now itching to pack your suitcase and head over to the Queen City of the South? I don’t blame you. These Cebu must-eats are just a fraction of what Cebuanos can offer.
The local and unique flavors of the region definitely set them apart from other destinations in the Philippines. Each local cuisine is also a glimpse of Cebu’s rich culture and heritage, so make sure to take it all in once you’re there!
