No need to book flights down south.
Cebu has always had its own distinct homey appeal when it comes to food. Hello, lechon! With the recent opening of Hukad restaurant (thanks to the Golden Cowrie of Cebu), Manila peeps can instantly satisfy original Cebu lechon cravings with just a drive to Trinoma Mall.
The place is warm and informal, decked with wooden chairs and lights built with natural raw materials like rattan.
Fun fact: The decorative lamps, walls, chairs, and including the food, are all from Cebu.
The name of the restaurant actually means “to scoop,” which is the action done when serving rice. “Hukad pa more?” their servers will ask diners. A question which is indeed appropriate in Filipino dining because when the ulam is good, kanin seems to be lacking. It is the question suitable for the restaurant’s unlimited rice offering.
Amazing fact: The unlimited rice is only PhP 45.00
Before diving into the mains, the Baked Bantayan Scallops, from Bantayan Islands in Cebu, would be a good cheesy start but, as any Filipino would do, this dish could as well be eaten with rice.
For those looking for vegetarian starters, try the Ngohiong. This fried lumpia is actually a type of Cebuano street food that contains singkamas and ubod, and seasoned with a Chinese five-spice powder. Its sauce is also made with the same Chinese five-spice powder. Another veggie dish to order is the Monggo, a true Pinoy favorite.
Aside from Monggo, you can also opt for the usual Sinigang, Tinola or Bulalo.
Something interesting to try would be the Balut Sisig. Hukad uses eggs that are 16 to 18 days old. Careful now, this dish should be eaten in moderation.
Just like these addicting bestsellers. The Cebu lechon belly, which takes four hours to cook, did not disappoint and is truly the star of Hukad’s menu. True to its roots, the flavorful spiced rub is enough and takes away the need for liver sauce. Goodbye, Mang Tomas!
The lechon belly is available in the following serving sizes:
1/4 kilo – P259
1/2 kilo – P435
3/4 kilo – P615
1 kilo – P785
The Crispy Pata, in all its fatty glory and crispy skin, should be ordered, especially when you’re with family or friends.
Fun fact: The Crispy Pata is more popular in Cebu, while the Lechon Belly sells out quick in Manila.
If pork is not your thing and are looking for an alternative protein, try the Grilled Tuna Belly.
Insider tip: You can choose how you want your seafood cooked: grilled, fried, or steamed.
Wash down with a fresh pitcher of Watermelon or Pineapple-Cucumber.
The menu really boasts of the country’s well-loved snacks and dishes like Chicharon Bulaklak, Nilagang Baka, Humba, Tortang Talong, Kare-Kare, and Dinuguan. But do not miss their Sweet Somethings in the menu. There is just so much to choose from: there’s Ube Halaya Crisp Ala Mode, Budbud with Tsokolate Syrup, and Toron, among other sweets.
We’re so happy that Cebu’s authentic roasted pig with juicy meat and crackling skin is now available in Manila! Our bellies are ready. What about you?
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G/F Garden Restaurants, Trinoma Mall, EDSA cor North Ave, Quezon City
(02) 621-5334
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