It’s our first time visiting Sugbo Mercado, Cebu’s famous night market! We’ve heard so much about this foodie haven, and we can’t wait to try the mouthwatering dishes, soak in the lively ambiance, and share our first impressions with you. So, let’s go and explore together!
Getting to Sugbo Mercado
Getting here is easy and convenient! The most hassle-free option is by taxi or Grab, with a fare of around 120 pesos from Quest Hotel. Sugbo Mercado is open from Thursday to Sunday, 5 PM to midnight—perfect for a fun night out with family or friends.
Once you arrive, it’s about a three-minute walk to the main entrance, located at the back. You’ll even spot a great photo-op spot near the entrance, so be sure to snap some pics before heading inside!
First Impressions
The moment we stepped in, we were immediately captivated by the energy! The open-air setup, the lively crowd, and the mouthwatering aroma of grilled meats and sizzling street food made the place feel like a mini food festival.
What makes the experience even more special? There’s live music playing in the background, creating a fun and vibrant atmosphere. People were happily chatting, eating, and just enjoying the night – it felt like the ultimate foodie hangout spot!
Food Galore: What We Tried
Sugbo Mercado offers a diverse mix of local and international flavors, making it hard to choose where to start! From ramen, dim sum, and burgers to pizza, Korean street food, chicken wings, and fresh seafood—there’s something for everyone.
Here are some of the dishes we tried:
1. Pork Steak from Pork Barrel
We were craving something hearty, so we ordered the pork steak from Pork Barrel. The steak was tender and juicy, with a deliciously smoky, slightly charred crust. It was seasoned perfectly and packed with flavor. Definitely a satisfying choice for meat lovers!
Rating: 4 out of 5
2. Isaw (Grilled Chicken Intestine)
Next up, we couldn’t resist getting our all-time favorite Filipino street food – isaw. The skewered chicken intestine was grilled to perfection, with a beautifully charred and crispy exterior. The inside was chewy and flavorful, with a smoky and savory taste that kept us coming back for more!
Rating: 5 out of 5
3. Pad Thai from AJ Authentic Thai Food
Since we love Thai cuisine, we tried the Pad Thai from AJ Authentic Thai Food. Unfortunately, it didn’t meet our expectations. The dish was overly spicy but still bland in overall flavor. The noodles lacked the signature tangy-sweet balance that makes a great Pad Thai. It was missing the boldness we were hoping for.
Rating: 1 out of 5
4. Lechon Belly from Kuzina Guadalupe
Finally, we couldn’t leave without trying Cebu’s signature dish – lechon belly from Kuzina Guadalupe. This was the highlight of our night! The crispy skin delivered a satisfying crunch, while the meat was tender, juicy, and seasoned to perfection. Paired with spicy vinegar or lechon sauce, it was absolutely divine.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Final Verdict
Our first visit to Sugbo Mercado was an exciting and delicious experience! The lively atmosphere, live music, and wide variety of food made it a must-visit spot in Cebu. While some dishes were hit or miss, the overall vibe and the standout dishes like isaw and lechon belly made the trip worth it.
Pro Tip: Since Sugbo Mercado is popular, the dining area fills up quickly, so it’s best to arrive early to grab a table. Also, while some dishes can be a bit pricey, the flavors and experience make it worthwhile. If you’re planning a foodie adventure in Cebu, make sure to add Sugbo Mercado to your list – it’s a culinary playground you won’t want to miss!