Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Cebu City, Philippines
1. Lechon Cebu
Roasted whole pig marinated in a special blend of herbs and spices, known for its crispy skin and juicy meat. A must-try Cebuano delicacy.
- Authentic Flavor: Taste the original lechon recipe passed down generations in Cebu.
- Cooking Technique: Experience the unique method of spit-roasting that ensures a perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.
- Family Business: Support local businesses like Cebu Lechon Belly or Zubuchon, which have become family-run culinary dynasties.
2. Sutukil
A Cebuano dining experience featuring the three cooking methods: sukang (sour - using soured coconut water), tuwa (boiling) and grilling. Try this unique seafood dish at Larsian.
- Culinary Experience: Immerse in the vibrant atmosphere of Larsian while trying out Sutukil.
- Seafood Variety: Choose from a wide array of fresh seafood and have it cooked according to the Sutukil method.
- Local Interaction: Engage with friendly vendors and learn about Cebuano culture while enjoying your meal.
3. Danggit Bai
Crispy dried rabbitfish served with a side of tomatoes, onions, and soy sauce. This tasty dish can be found at Fuente Osmeña Circle's sidewalk eateries.
- Taste of the Sea: Savor the tangy flavor of Danggit Bai, a traditional Cebuano dish.
- Street Food Experience: Enjoy the hustle and bustle of Fuente Osmeña Circle's vibrant street food scene while trying Danggit Bai.
- Local Ingredients: Experience the use of locally sourced ingredients in this popular Cebuano dish.
4. Chicken Inasal
Grilled marinated chicken served with rice and a side of tasty sauce. Try the famous Chicken Inasal at Manokan Country.
- Spicy Flavor: Experience the tangy, slightly spicy flavor of Chicken Inasal.
- Cultural Significance: Discover the history and cultural significance of this dish at Manokan Country.
- Local Cuisine: Taste authentic Visayan cuisine through Chicken Inasal, a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
5. Sinuglaw
A fusion dish consisting of grilled pork belly and ceviche-style fish served with a mix of vegetables. Try this unique combination at Grill Sutukil.
- Culinary Innovation: Experience the exciting blend of two traditional dishes in Sinuglaw.
- Seafood and Meat: Indulge in the rich flavors of both grilled pork belly and ceviche-style fish in one dish.
- Diverse Tasting: Savor a variety of textures and flavors, from the crispy pork to the tangy ceviche.
6. Puso
Steamed rice wrapped in woven coconut leaves, a staple side dish in Cebuano cuisine. Find it at any local eatery or food market.
- Traditional Packaging: Enjoy the aroma of traditionally-prepared rice in coconut leaves.
- Perfect Portion Size: Savor a perfectly portioned, easy-to-eat rice dish.
- Versatile Accompaniment: Pair Puso with various Cebuano dishes to complete your meal.
7. Lumpia
Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables and ground meat, a popular snack in the Philippines. Find them at any local eatery or market.
- Traditional Snack: Taste a classic Filipino snack with Cebu's take on Lumpia.
- Versatile Flavors: Indulge in various fillings, including shrimp and pork, to satisfy your taste buds.
- Portable Treat: Enjoy the convenience of a portable, flavorful snack when you're on the go.
8. Tuslob Buwa
A popular street food featuring pig's brain and liver cooked in a mixture of coconut milk and soy sauce. Try it at Fuente Osmeña Circle or Taboan Public Market.
- Adventurous Flavor: Test your culinary courage with this unique dish.
- Street Food Experience: Experience the bustling atmosphere of Fuente Osmeña Circle or Taboan Public Market while trying Tuslob Buwa.
- Savory Flavor: Enjoy the savory, slightly spicy flavor of this traditional Cebuano dish.
9. Boodle Fight
A communal feast featuring a variety of dishes served on banana leaves. Experience Boodle Fight at Lantaw Native Restaurant.
- Communal Dining: Share an unforgettable dining experience with friends and family during a Boodle Fight.
- Wide Selection: Savor various traditional Filipino dishes, all served on one banana leaf-covered table.
- Authentic Experience: Immerse in Cebuano culture and traditions while enjoying a Boodle Fight.
10. Pork Belly Adobo
Tender pork belly cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, and various spices. Try this hearty dish at Casa Verde Restaurant.
- Hearty Meal: Indulge in a satisfying, flavorful meal with Pork Belly Adobo.
- Authentic Flavor: Experience the rich flavors of this classic Filipino dish made with Cebuano ingredients.
- Comfort Food: Relax and enjoy a warm, comforting meal at Casa Verde Restaurant.
11. Ginabot
A sour fish soup made with tamarind broth and various vegetables. Try this hearty dish at a local eatery or market.
- Healing Properties: Enjoy the health benefits of Ginabot, believed to have healing properties.
- Authentic Flavor: Taste the tangy, slightly spicy flavor of this traditional Cebuano dish.
- Comfort Food: Warm up with a comforting bowl of Ginabot on a rainy day in Cebu City.
12. Kusina Ng Sinulom
A charming restaurant located inside a renovated Spanish colonial house. Try traditional Filipino dishes with a twist at Kusina Ng Sinulom.
- Historic Setting: Dine in an elegant, historic setting while enjoying traditional Filipino cuisine.
- Creative Dishes: Taste unique takes on classic dishes, such as Adobo Flakes and Sinigang with Seafood Dumplings.
- Fine Dining Experience: Enjoy a fine dining experience in an intimate, romantic atmosphere.
13. Balbacua
A rich beef soup made with various vegetables and organ meats. Try this hearty dish at a local eatery or market.
- Hearty Meal: Indulge in a satisfying, flavorful meal with Balbacua.
- Traditional Flavor: Experience the rich, slightly spicy flavor of this traditional Cebuano dish.
- Comfort Food: Warm up with a comforting bowl of Balbacua on a cold day in Cebu City.
14. Baked Scallops
Jumbo scallops baked with garlic butter and cheese. Enjoy this luxurious dish at The Mactan Shrine.
- Luxurious Dish: Treat yourself to a lavish, indulgent meal with Baked Scallops.
- Seafood Delight: Indulge in the succulent flavors of fresh scallops baked to perfection.
- Romantic Setting: Share a romantic meal with your loved one at The Mactan Shrine, overlooking the ocean.
15. Fresh Seafood at Fish Market
Indulge in fresh seafood caught daily and prepared to your liking at Talisay Fish Port or Carbon Public Market.
- Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy the freshest, most flavorful seafood in Cebu City.
- Customizable Meals: Choose your favorite seafood and have it prepared according to your preferences.
- Affordable Prices: Savor delicious seafood dishes without breaking the bank.