Karlo Pacana
Rodeo Grill in SM City Cebu
Looking for cowboy-inspired barbecue and sizzlers with a Filipino twist? Read on.
Restaurant Facade
The King of Sinulog along with Cebu bloggers were off to taste the best of Rodeo Grill in SM City Cebu. Rather than just an ordinary food establishment, Rodeo Grill is a concept store which capitalizes on the experience with the idea of barbecue being quite synonymous to the outdoors and the cowboy lifestyle. Saddle up as we ride on this culinary journey to the Wild West.
Ambiance
Designed like a saloon with its swinging doors and rustic chandeliers, the restaurant is quite iconic as Clint Eastwood once was in his Hollywood roles as sheriff in a county defending the townsfolk from wanted crooks and drifters. Despite this rugged and manly concept, Rodeo Grill is family-friendly with their alcoholic beverages intentionally priced ridiculously high. With a seating capacity that could accommodate 120 people, the place could be full-packed during peak hours. For private events, they have a separate function room that could cater up to 30 guests. If given the choice though, I’d pick their old location near Elizabeth Hotel which will reopen soon since it provided a better outdoor experience.
Food
As dish by dish arrived, the sizzling plates were indeed overwhelming to see. Of all the good dishes I was able to sink my teeth in, three of which left a lasting impression. The first one was the Arkansas Ribs with its tender and lean meat slathered with a sauce with a spicy kick I can’t get enough of.
Next was the Tennessee Sizzling Shrimps. The dish was flavorful, juicy and cooked just right, evident with the easy separation of the shrimp from its shell. The last dish was unexpected, Rodeo Grill’s Lechon de Cebu with its fatty goodness and extra crispy skin which will surely question your loyalty with other lechon restaurants.
Among the desserts, I enjoyed the Choco Bang Bang with its hot and cold contrast, a perfect meal ender to satisfy your sweet cravings.
For the drinks, they have colas in glass jars at PHP59, coffee frappes and other healthy options.
Price
A typical meal for two would cost around PHP500. For those going solo, they have quick meals complete with drink under PHP200. If you’d ask me price to value wise, Rodeo Grill offers quite reasonable choices for the average Filipino customer.
Service
The food preparation was quick and hassle-free although avoid peak dining hours when visiting. Chef Kai was very thoughtful with the customers making sure that they have the best dining experience. The partners dressed in clad in cowboy attire were also professional and friendly.
Overall, if you happen to be in SM City Cebu and want to eat like a cowboy, then Rodeo Grill is for you.
Restaurant Information
Rodeo Grill is located at the 2nd level of SM City Cebu. For more details, check out their official Facebook page.
