Cebu’s Lechon: A Gastronomic Gem

Lechon, a roast pig delicacy that is ingrained in Filipino culture, particularly famous in Cebu, Philippines. This treat is prepared in a distinctive way that includes marinating, long roasting over open flames, and perfectly crisp skin. Lechon from Cebu is the star of festivals, loved for its unrivaled taste and sense of community. While keeping its rich legacy, its international recognition and adaptability show how it has influenced global culinary trends. Without tasting this delectable masterpiece, a visit to Cebu isn’t complete.

CnT Lechon

The lechon scene in Cebu is led by CNT Lechon, which was established in 1985 by Connie and Titing Tesoro. CNT Lechon stands out for its dedication to traditional methods. Their method, which includes picking the pig, marinating it, and roasting it over an open fire, results in soft meat with a crispy skin. The outcome is a taste explosion that perfectly describes Cebuano cuisine. A cultural symbol embodying Cebu’s rich tradition and encouraging authenticity in others, CNT Lechon is renowned for more than just its culinary skill. Savouring CNT Lechon, where history and flavor are woven into every bite, is a must-do experience while visiting Cebu.

Main Branch: 1377 V. Rama Avenue, Guadalupe 6000 Cebu City, Philippines
Other Cebu Branches: Ayala Center Cebu; North Reclamation Area; SM Seaside City Cebu
Facebook: @lechon.cnt
Contact Numbers: (032) 254-4249; (032) 254-6641; +63917-793-2068

Rico’s Lechon

Rico’s Lechon, which has been in business for more than 20 years, is the standard lechon in Cebu. They have locations all across Cebu and even throughout the Philippines. They now have 10 locations around the country. It’s best to consume Rico’s Lechon right away. In addition, for those who want a little bit of a spice, they also offer spicy lechon.

Main Branch: Unit F1 Jamestown, Mantawi International Drive, Mandaue City
Other Cebu Branches: AXIS Entertainment Avenue in Vibo Place N. Escario Street; Mactan Promenade in Lapu-Lapu Airport Rd; Ayala Malls Central Bloc I.T. Park Cebu
Website: www.ricoslechon.com
Facebook: @RicosLechonOFFICIAL
Contact Numbers: (032) 253-4650; (032) 253-4709; +63917-823-8263 (Mandaue Branch)

House of Lechon

This well-known Cebu lechon brand has only recently entered the market. House of Lechon really recently made its debut in November 2015. In any case, their famous Carcar lechon is delicious! Additionally, their upscale yet cozy atmosphere enhances the whole eating experience. A visit to one of their locations will leave you with plenty of Instagram-worthy photos in addition to, of course, the cuisine.

Biggest Branch: Avila Branch in Don Jose Avila Street (250-300 pax seating capacity)
Other Cebu Branches: Acacia Street; Robinsons Galleria Cebu; Upper Linao, Antuwanga, Talisay City
Website: www.pages.com.ph/houseoflechon
Facebook: @HouseOfLechonCebu
Contact Numbers: (032) 231-0958 (Acacia Branch)

Ayer’s Lechon

Ayers Lechon, which is tucked away in Cebu’s culinary landscape, is a monument to tradition and culinary prowess. It was established as a result of the Ayers family’s enthusiasm for creating the ideal lechon. Each mouthful is a wonderful combination of smokey, soft flesh and crispy skin thanks to a closely guarded marinade and thorough roasting. Beyond its deliciousness, Ayers Lechon represents Cebu’s illustrious culinary past and continues to be a source of inspiration for regional cuisines. Enjoying Ayers Lechon is experiencing decades of culinary mastery, not simply enjoying food.

Main Branch: Gate 777 across Cebu Country Club, Banilad Road, Apas, Cebu City
Other Cebu Branches: Mactan Domestic Airport Branch (Departure Area); 2nd floor, i2 Bldg., Asia Town, IT Park, Lahug; SM City Cebu 3rd Level SM Trade Mall; Gaisano South, Colon Street; e-Mall, Leon Kilat Street; Mak’s View, Busay
Facebook: @AyersLechon
Contact Numbers: (032) 268-0327; (032) 231-7615; +63927-440-6891; +63949-503-2206

Zubuchon

Zubuchon, a mashup of lechon (roasted pig) and Zubu (Cebu’s name on 16th-century Spanish maps), is not your standard lechon Cebu. Compared to the rest, their lechon doesn’t have a very strong flavor. This is presumably due to its all-natural approach, which starts with their 100% organically fed pigs and ends with their cooking method. Do you know that they also avoid using soy sauce and MSG? You may easily sate your lechon desires even if you’re not in Cebu by visiting one of the Manila Zubuchon locations. They are typically seen in shopping centers like SM Malls.

Main Branch: Escario Central, N. Escario Street, Cebu City
Other Cebu Branches: SM City Cebu; SM Seaside City Cebu; One Mango Avenue; The Outlets at Pueblo Verde; Pacific Mall; Pre-Departure Area of Mactan Cebu International Airport
Website: www.zubuchon.com
Facebook: @zubuchonphilippines
Contact Numbers: (032) 345 – ZUBU (9828); +63908-873-4766; +63917-657-2959 (Main Office)

More locally produced Cebu lechon brands

Leslie’s Lechon

A segment on Leslie’s Lechon appeared in the Netflix documentary Street Food: Asia. In the form of our favorite lechon, it did a great job of representing the street food scene in Cebu. If this isn’t enough to convince you, we’ll also inform you that Leslie’s Lechon has been roasting Talisay lechon since the 1940s. Their lengthy history of producing lechon may undoubtedly say a lot about the caliber of their lechon. In addition, they provide a variety of extras, including dinuguan (pork blood stew), atay and bulaklak (pig liver and intestines), spicy seasoning, and delivery for free if you purchase lechon valued between 5,500 and 7,000 pesos. To us, it sounds like a great offer!

Main Branch: 609 Dumlog, Talisay City, Cebu
Facebook: @Leslieslechon
Contact Numbers: (032) 2731844 / 5110476; +63908-528-6364

Se Ben’s Lechon

Se Ben’s Lechon, which has been around for more than ten years, is pleased to maintain the genuine flavor of lechon from Cebu, which is crispy on the exterior and juicy and tasty on the inside. They now have 70 reviews with an average rating of 4.9 stars. In addition to their excellent lechon, they have constantly received positive reviews for their outstanding service. They also provide free delivery in Consolacion, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and Cebu City. For cheapskate types like us, that’s a significant benefit!

Branches: GND Building, Panagdait (Near Sykes), Mabolo, Cebu City; G/F Gaisano Country Mall Food Court, Banilad, Cebu City
Website: www.sebenslechon.com
Facebook: @sebenslechon
Contact Number: +63917-323-2888

Carcar Lechon: A Cebuano Culinary Tradition

Carcar Lechon, which is located in the Cebuano village of Carcar, is a monument to tradition. This culinary treat is steeped in history and a testament to careful preparation and distinctive tastes. Each stage honors the town’s history, from hand-selected pigs to a top-secret marinade. As a consequence, a smokey scent, crispy skin, and soft flesh orchestra is created that not only honors flavor but also culture. Carcar Lechon is more than simply a meal; it takes you deep within Cebu’s rich culinary history.

Tip: The trip from Cebu City to Carcar takes around 1.5 hours. From the Cebu South Bus Terminal, board the first bus, and get out at the Carcar public market. The lechon here is so popular that it sells out quickly, unless you’re comfortable with the “pinilian” or “tira-tira” (leftover) pieces. Therefore, go as early as you can in the morning.