What we desire the most when we travel anywhere in the world is to try the diverse and delicious foods that we can find in that particular place. The locals a.k.a "Cebuanos" are quite known to have a salty palette so most foods that are loved here are savory and a little bit more on the salty side. This you can expect in "Street Food", Fast Food chains, and some restaurants. So if you want to try any of these popular foods, you can always ask them not to put too much salt when you order.
Here are the best of Cebu's distinctive food offerings that you can explore and savor while on the island.
Lechon (ver. Inasal Baboy)
This is a whole roasted pig that is a staple in many Cebuano celebrations. It is known for its crispy skin and tender, juicy pork meat.
Cebuano Dried Fish (ver. Buwad)
Dried fish is a local delicacy in Cebu, it is usually served as an appetizer or side dish and is often paired with rice and vegetables.
Dinuguan (ver. Dugo-dugo)
A savory stew made with pig's blood, meat, and offal. It is usually served with rice.
Pungko Pungko (ver. Assorted fried meat, innards)
A very popular street food mostly fried meat and innards (e.g. intestines, stomach, liver) paired with hanging rice (puso) in Cebu.
Bibingka
Best to consume it fresh. Bingka is a traditional rice cake prepared from milled glutinous rice, coconut milk, margarine, and sugar.
Roasted Chicken (ver. Inasal Manok)
Roasted chicken is a popular street food in Cebu, it is marinated in a mixture of spices and then roasted over charcoal.
Seafood
Cebu is known for its rich marine life, so seafood is a must-try in Cebu. Some popular seafood dishes include kinilaw - raw fish mixed with vinegar, chopped red onion, red tomatoes, and some chili, sinugba - aka grilled fish seasoned with salt and pepper, and baked scallops - with minced garlic and melted cheese on top.
Halo-halo
This is a popular Filipino dessert that is made with shaved ice, sweet beans, fruit, and milk. It is a popular dessert in Cebu all year round.
