It is no wonder why Cebu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines. From its captivating beaches, exciting nature activities, to friendly people. However, whenever we visit Cebu, or someone we know goes there, only one saying always pops up in our heads. “Laughter is brightest in the place where food is.” This quote isn’t from us, but we highly agree with Irish Proverb! Undeniably, Cebu is one of the brightest places we’ve been to. And you know what keeps up from coming back aside from good places and good people? It’s undeniably good food! Here’s why we have listed the Top 6 Best Delicacies in Cebu that you must try when you visit or are currently there for a vacation. (Well, we have heard many of you are spending the Holidays there. So, continue reading!)
Lechon de Cebu
Cebu is a food mecca where you can taste the Philippines’ most excellent cuisine. Topping it off with the one and only Lechon Cebu! It is a no-brainer that when you hear Cebu, lechon will automatically be the first thing on your mind.
Lechon is a whole roasted pig on top of an open fire. We cannot emphasize how lechon is a game changer! You’ll surely savor every bite, from crispy skin to juicy and tender meat! Though Lechon de Cebu may be quite distinguishable from the ones you eat in Manila, its saltier taste and distinct flavor make it different. It will make you crave to pair it with sarsa or vinegar.
If you’re still thinking about the first eats among the best delicacies in Cebu you should try, lechon should be at the top of your list! But, of course, you have to explore different restaurants to know where to find the best-tasting lechon and help you decide. Many tourists love Rico’s Lechon for its authentic and spicy choices made with organic ingredients. It was said it is where the spicy lechon recipe originated. On the one hand, CNT Lechon is also said to be one of the best brands of lechon. It has three accessible branches (on the topmost floor of Ayala Center Cebu, across the terminal of SM City Cebu, and its main branch at 1377 V Rama Avenue). Zubuchon is another well-known option. Anthony Bourdain commended their lechon as “the best pig ever.” They take pride in using local ingredients and ensuring that no MSG or other chemical preservatives are used in their dishes. If you are on a budget and want to try lechon in a different environment, Carcar Public Market has a lot of eateries that serve affordable yet, flavorful lechon.
Puso Rice
We have seen how Filipinos pair everything with rice in the Philippines! In Cebu restaurants and eateries, you usually see rice wrapped in woven banana leaves. You may wonder why it is called “puso.” Maybe because it is in a human heart (puso) shape form. What makes this unique and interesting for us is that the rice is extra flavorful and easier to eat without using utensils. In cooking the puso rice, you just have to put it inside coconut fronds. You can buy this basically everywhere, particularly when you purchase grilled lechon, liempo, or barbecue on the streets!
Chorizo de Cebu
In Manila, this one of the best delicacies in Cebu is commonly known as “longganisa.” But in Cebu, chorizo is one of the finest eats you’ve got to try! Its main ingredient is pork meat mixed with various spices and stuffed into a thin intestine casing. We have seen different chorizo types, most of which are elongated, identical to sausages (especially in Europe). However, the chorizo de Cebu is very different as it is circular and has different sizes. One thing that also makes it remarkable is its sweet but a little spicy taste. And like all Filipino viands, you can never go wrong with pairing this with rice!
If you want to buy this delicacy in Cebu, you can find it in groceries and local public markets. For us, the best way to cook this is by grilling! But you can also cook it in a pan at home.
Chicharon in Carcar
Want some crunch time? Nope, not the one to tone your belly! But the one that will fill your tummy! Carcar is one of the go-to places for lechon, but this time, we’ll talk about chicharon! Carcar is a city in Cebu’s southernmost region. It has many delicacies, such as the previously mentioned lechon.
But another thing Carcar is famous for is for it being the “Chicharon Center of Cebu.” In this particular city, there’s never a dull moment for freshly cooked chicharon! (Not to mention, they taste the best when they are newly up from a series of deep frying to achieve their incredible crunchy texture!) Carcar’s chicharon comes in two varieties: one made entirely of pork skin and the other with skin and meat. But for us, both are crispy and delicious when dipped in vinegar! Another fun thing about it is, once again, you can eat it with rice for a filling meal or as a snack. Carcar is approximately one and a half hours away from Cebu City proper. If you are in for an adventure to travel to get there, you may do so! But the good news is, you don’t have to go to Carcar to get chicharon. Chicharon is widely available in supermarkets, bus terminals, as well as on the street.
Dried Mangoes
After having the savory taste of Cebu, we are moving now to the sweeter side of the best delicacies in Cebu. Around the world, the Philippines is best known for its sweet mangoes. You guys know that there are many ways to use mangoes, especially in making desserts. But in Cebu, it is famous for being dried. In making this, dried mangoes go through a lengthy drying, sweetening, and preservation process. This is to extend the shelf life of ripe mangoes. It is awe-inspiring how Cebuanos gave mangoes a different touch, making them extremely special. According to the locals, this is the most favored pasalubong from Cebu!
This can be found in “pasalubong stores” throughout Cebu as well as in Asian or Filipino shops abroad. Tourists worldwide and across the country buy many of these as gifts for their loved ones. Well, remember to bring some home when you return from your Holiday in Cebu!
Masareal
Who said ground peanuts and sugar could not be perfect for a comforting snack? In Mandaue City, Cebu, a delicacy called Masareal is one of their renowned products! You may be wondering why it is called that. Tracing back to history, Cebu is one of the Philippines’ oldest settlements. It is also one of the most historic, retaining much of the flavor of its long history in connection to Spain. This is why it is not surprising that the term Masareal originated from the Spanish word “masa,” which means dough, and “real,” which means fine.
Masareal is made from ground peanuts combined with sugar syrup. You’ll usually see this in rectangular or square blocks wrapped in paper. If you’re going to ask the locals for a recommendation on where to buy this, Didang’s Masareal is the popular choice! They have been in business since 1912. They also offer other local treats like rosquillos and otap, which you can add to your cart when you buy from their store!
We know that these are not just the best delicacies in Cebu that you must try, but these are based on our preferences. Of course, you have the liberty to explore Cebu on your own and try others!
If you also want to know more about our latest travel to Cebu and witness the heartwarming homecoming of John in Cebu after seven years, watch our vlog Reunited with my Filipino Family after 7 Years. You will see a local fiesta, an emotional family reunion, and a delicious lechon!
