In Philippines, its cuisine choices are colourful, enchanting, and vibrant. And in Cebu, the Larsian BBQ is one of them. Multitudinous rows of raw meat stabbed with sticks, from chicken intestines and squid, to chicken gizzard and pork, all waiting to sizzle and tantalise on the metallic charcoal grill. Prices are more than affordable, with a stick as low as 5 pesos, and the atmosphere is reminiscent of a grand celebration, a bravura of flavours and ambrosial sauces.
As you continue your search for the next big eat, your nose might pick up wafts of slightly burnt, yet extremely fragrant scent drifting through the evening air. It smells familiar, yet somehow distant. You’ve actually discovered Cebu’s famed lechon, or whole roasted pig. It’s one of the most popular dishes in Philippines – crispy on the outside, exquisitely tender on the inside. If you’re on hand to witness a just cooked lechon, you can witness its skin still crackling from the intense heat coming from the burning charcoals, emitting such a flavourful, bewitching aroma. Wash the meat down with a swig of San Miguel beer, and it’s pretty close to experiencing Eden on earth. Other must-tries include Kusina Uno – a type of stew that can be cooked with beef or chicken, as well as the more conventional options like the Casa Verde (cheap ribs and burgers) and Mooon Café (great Western favourites at low prices!). Take your pick, and feast to your heart’s content. When one thinks about the Philippines, vast beaches laced with stretches of soft white sand come into mind.
