Must-Try Local Foods in Cebu

Cebu is not just known for its beautiful tourist spots, but also for its rich culinary heritage. Here’s a list of must-try local foods that capture the flavors of Cebu:

Lechon Cebu

Often hailed as the best roast pig in the Philippines, Lechon Cebu is a must-try for any visitor. The crispy skin and flavorful meat, seasoned with herbs and spices, make it a dish to remember. It’s a staple at celebrations and special occasions in Cebu.

Puso (Hanging Rice)

Puso is rice wrapped in woven coconut leaves, boiled, and often served with grilled or roasted meats. It’s a convenient and traditional way of serving rice, especially popular during festivals and street food feasts.

Danggit

Cebu is famous for its dried fish, particularly danggit. This salted, sun-dried fish is often eaten with rice and vinegar, especially during breakfast. It’s a popular pasalubong (souvenir) for visitors to take home.

Cebuano Barbecue

Street food is big in Cebu, and barbecue is a favorite. Grilled skewers of pork, chicken, or seafood, marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, are a common sight at local food stalls. Don’t forget to try chorizo de Cebu, a local sausage with a distinct sweet flavor.

Ngohiong

Ngohiong is a Cebuano take on spring rolls, filled with vegetables and ground pork, seasoned with five-spice powder, and deep-fried until crispy. It’s often served with a spicy dipping sauce and is a popular snack or side dish.

Tuslob Buwa

This unique Cebuano dish involves dipping puso (hanging rice) into a bubbling mixture of pig brain, liver, onions, and spices cooked in a wok. It’s a communal dish that offers a fun and flavorful eating experience.

SuTuKil

SuTuKil stands for “Sugba, Tuwa, Kilaw” – a trio of popular ways to prepare fresh seafood. Sugba refers to grilled, Tuwa to a light soup or broth, and Kilaw to ceviche, where the fish is marinated in vinegar and spices. Lapu-Lapu (grouper) is a favorite fish for SuTuKil.

Bibingka

This traditional rice cake is made from glutinous rice and coconut milk, often topped with butter, sugar, and grated coconut. Cebuano bibingka is known for its soft texture and rich coconut flavor.

Masareal

A local sweet treat made from ground peanuts, sugar, and water, Masareal is a popular delicacy in Cebu, particularly in Mandaue City. It’s usually cut into rectangular blocks and has a distinct nutty sweetness.

Otap

Otap is a popular Cebuano pastry made from puff pastry dough coated with sugar and baked until crispy. It’s light, flaky, and makes for a great snack or souvenir.

Mango

Cebu is known for its sweet, golden mangoes, often considered some of the best in the world. You can enjoy them fresh, dried, or in various desserts like mango float or mango ice cream.

Bam-i

Bam-i is a noodle dish unique to Cebu, combining two types of noodles – bihon (rice noodles) and canton (egg noodles) – with a savory mix of meats, seafood, and vegetables. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish often served at gatherings.

Exploring the local food scene is an essential part of experiencing Cebu. From savory dishes to sweet treats, Cebu’s culinary offerings are sure to leave you craving for more.