Hey there, foodies! Welcome back to FunFam Travels, where we take you on epic family-friendly food and travel adventures around the Philippines. This time, we’re in Cebu – a province famous not just for its beautiful beaches and rich culture, but also for being the Lechon Capital of the Philippines.
You can’t come to Cebu and not try the legendary Cebu lechon – a culinary gem known for its crispy skin, aromatic seasoning, and juicy, flavorful meat. So, we dedicated a day to what we’re calling our very own Lechon Hopping Adventure – and trust us, it was an unforgettable (and filling!) experience. Here’s a rundown of where we went and what we ate:
Stop #1: Kuy’s Lechon – Classic Cebuano Flavors with a Few Hiccups
Our first bite of Cebu’s famous lechon happened at Kuy’s Lechon, a spot often recommended for those wanting an authentic taste of traditional Cebu-style roast pork. The lechon arrived with a beautiful golden crust, glistening and crackling with promise.
What we loved:
The meat was tender and well-marinated, with hints of lemongrass and other native herbs peeking through each bite. That skin? Super crispy – you could hear the crackle across the table.
What could be better:
We did notice that service was a bit slow, and it took a while to get our orders despite the restaurant not being too crowded. We also tried their halo-halo, hoping for a sweet treat to balance the savory dish – but sadly, it didn’t deliver. The flavors felt flat, and the ice was more like chunky snow than fine shave.
Our verdict: 3 out of 5
Amazing lechon, but the overall experience was slightly marred by slow service and underwhelming dessert.
Stop #2: Kuzina Guadalupe (Inside Sugbo Mercado) – A Flavor-Packed Surprise
Next, we ventured into Sugbo Mercado, Cebu’s popular weekend night market, and discovered Kuzina Guadalupe – a low-key stall serving one of the best lechon belly dishes we’ve ever tasted.
Why we loved it:
The belly cut was crispy on the outside and incredibly juicy inside. The seasoning penetrated all the way through, which made every bite flavorful, not just the outer layers. Pair it with a bit of spicy vinegar or their signature lechon sauce, and you’re in lechon heaven.
Bonus points: Very wallet-friendly. If you’re on a budget but still want a five-star flavor, this is your go-to.
Our verdict: 5 out of 5
Affordable, flavorful, and unexpected – Kuzina Guadalupe is a gem worth discovering!
Stop #3: House of Lechon – Elevated Dining with a Local Twist
Just a short drive from Quest Hotel, House of Lechon offers a more upscale take on traditional Filipino cuisine. It’s stylish, spacious, and gives off a modern Pinoy vibe – perfect for families, balikbayans, and even date nights.
Highlight:
We tried their Carcar-style lechon, a regional variant that’s chopped and drizzled in a sweet-savory sauce. The meat was so soft it practically fell apart on our forks, and the skin had that satisfying crackle we’ve come to expect.
What didn’t quite click:
The dipping sauce was a tad too salty for our liking, masking some of the natural spices already in the meat. But we found that skipping the sauce actually made the flavors shine even more.
Don’t miss the dessert:
The halo-halo here was not only pretty – it was delicious! Creamy, sweet, and served in a coconut-style bowl that made us feel like we were back at the beach.
Our verdict: 4 out of 5
A little pricier, but the ambiance and food variety justify it. Definitely worth a stop if you want lechon with a side of elegance.
Stop #4: CNT Lechon – Budget-Friendly and Beloved by Locals
If you ask a Cebuano where to get classic lechon, many will say CNT Lechon – a name that’s been around for decades. With its convenient location near SM Cebu, this spot is perfect for tourists and locals alike.
What we had:
While their signature lechon was out of stock during our visit, we sampled the lechon belly and the lechon paksiw. Both were incredible! The belly was rich and flavorful, and the paksiw was tender, sweet, and savory all at once – perfect comfort food.
Pro tip:
They sell frozen lechon for pasalubong! If you want to take a slice of Cebu home, this is a great place to grab some.
Our verdict: 5 out of 5
Affordable, spacious, and consistently good – CNT Lechon is a must for your lechon trail.
Final Stop: Rico’s Lechon – Ending on a High Note
No lechon hopping tour in Cebu is complete without stopping at Rico’s Lechon, conveniently located near Mactan-Cebu International Airport. This was our last stop before flying out – and what a way to end!
What we loved:
The lechon here was simply outstanding. The crispy skin was flawless, and the meat was bursting with herbs and spices in every bite. It had the most balanced flavor of all the places we tried – no need for sauce, just pure lechon perfection.
Sweet treat:
Their halo-halo was just as impressive – sweet, creamy, and packed with mix-ins like leche flan, ube, and banana.
Pasalubong alert:
Yes, we took home 3 kilos of lechon! It was that good.
Our verdict: 5 out of 5
Top-tier lechon, great ambiance, and perfect for those catching a flight – Rico’s Lechon is a must-visit.
Final Thoughts: Which Lechon Reigns Supreme?
Every stop on our lechon hopping journey brought something special to the table – literally. Whether you’re looking for the classic taste, a budget-friendly feast, or an upscale dining experience, Cebu’s lechon scene delivers.
Our Top Picks:
- Best Overall Flavor: Rico’s Lechon
- Best Value for Money: CNT Lechon
So if you’re planning a food trip to Cebu, make sure lechon hopping is at the top of your itinerary. Bring your appetite – and maybe a few extra takeout containers!