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Best Places to Eat Lechon in Cebu
Let’s admit it. When it comes to Lechon in the Philippines, there is only one place that comes to mind: Cebu. The Lechon, or roasted pig, maybe the national dish of the country, but many people would definitely agree that Cebu has among the best and most delicious versions of all.
When Anthony Bourdain came to the Philippines a few years ago, he was able to get a bite of the Cebu Lechon and immediately declared that it was the best pig ever.
So, if you have wanted to taste the Lechon that Cebu takes pride in, make sure to drop by any of these places to get your craving satisfied:
Rico’s Lechon
Rico’s Lechon has been in business for a very long time, and they are, in fact, the ones who introduced the spicy Lechon variety to the market.
Their roasted pig is characterized by crunchy golden-red skin and slightly salty tender meat. Although their Lechon comes packed with full flavors in the meat, you could dip it in their special Sukalami sauce for an even better eating experience. Rico’s Lechon recently opened a restaurant near the airport and serves customers who do not eat pork.
If you are looking for one of the best lechons in Cebu but can’t try all the restaurants listed here, make sure not to skip Rico’s, you will thank me later!
You can check out Rico’s Lechon at their Mabolo and Mactan Promenade branches.
House of Lechon
The House of Lechon was supposed to be Rico’s Lechon’s third restaurant until it was renamed to its present name after separating from Pages Holdings.
The place offers roasted pigs similar to the ones from Carcar, wherein more sauce is added to the meat. Some diners would rather have it separated to maintain the skin’s crunchiness.
The House of Lechon is located on Acacia Street in Kaputhaw, Cebu City.
Zubuchon
Compared to the other restaurants in this line-up, Zubuchon differs in the way it serves its pork dishes, which include everyone’s favorite Lechon.
The company’s founder, Joel Binamira, prepared and served the roasted pig Anthony Bourdain feasted on, although this happened before the company was put up. Binamira did say that he still uses the same recipe at Zubuchon.
To create that unique taste, their roasted pigs are bathed in herbs such as lemongrass and green onions and seasonings, including sea salt, peppers, and other secret ingredients.
Try Zubuchon at Escario Central, Marina Mall, or the Cebu IT Park.
Cebu’s Original Lechon Belly
If you want to get a Lechon and you only want the best and tastiest part (the belly), head over to Cebu’s Original Lechon Belly.
Not only do they offer only the belly part of the Lechon, but they have also deboned it for an even better dining experience. Whether you get the classic or the spicy variety, you are assured that you get the same mouthwatering taste as a whole Lechon pig.
Cebu’s Original Lechon Belly can be found at the Al Fresco in Parkmall.
Ayer’s Lechon
This Lechon paradise is well-known to its fans because of its numerous physical stores and online shops, making online ordering possible.
According to them, it is their fresh native pigs that make their roasted pigs stand out in the market. Ayer’s Lechon does not just serve locally but also ships to Manila and other provinces. You can also taste Korean side dishes and Cebuano comfort food in some branches, including paksiw and bopis.
Don’t forget to check out Ayer’s Lechon’s website or their branch along Banilad Road.
Carcar Lechon
When it comes to Lechon de Cebu, the roasted pigs in Carcar might just be considered the Queen of all Lechon.
The Carcar variety has many flavors because their pigs are bathed in pig broth and roasted pig drippings. If that is not enough to make you drool, then I don’t know what else will.
Carcar Lechon can be likened to a home-cooked Lechon that your uncles and cousins roast in an open charcoal fire outside your backyard. Just think about the crispy golden-red skin, a thin layer of fat, and extra tender meat; you have the most delicious Lechon in the world.
To get a taste of Carcar’s world-class lechons, head to their public market and pair it up with puso (hanging rice) and a bottle of soft drinks.
Whew. Just thinking about Lechon makes me hungry. Perhaps it’s inviting you to book a flight to Cebu and go on a Lechon food trip as well?
Searching for the best hotels and affordable flights? Check out our complete list of affordable hotels and resorts via Agoda, or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.
Want more updates about new resorts in Bantayan Island? Please follow #TeamOutofTown on Facebook, and Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest for more travel ideas.
Also read:
- Travel Guide: Bantayan Island In Cebu
- Top 20 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches In The Philippines
- Top 15 Best CARCAR TOURIST SPOTS + Things to Do & Places to Visit
- Four Philippine Heritage Towns And Cities You Should Visit Next Summer
