We all already know that Cebu is a delicious treasure trove for classic dim sum and local Chinoy delicacies such as ngohiong and masi, so today, we’re here to present adventurous foodies with recommendations from a more varied menu! From Chongqing-style hotpots to Sichuan barbecue, here is our Cebuano list of underrated Chinese restos that you should definitely check out:
Long Men Hotpot
If you’re looking for authentic Chongqing-style hotpot, then Long Men Hot (also known as Tiongking Hotpot) is the place for you! Adorned with traditional wooden furniture and art, the restaurant treats visitors to a glimpse of China’s rich past — not unlike a scene you’d get from a historical drama — and offers a fantastic selection of meats, vegetables, fishballs, and dumplings that would no doubt leave you with one of the best hotpot experiences that Cebu has to offer.
Long Men Hotpot is especially known for its savory, spicy broths filled with chilies and Sichuan peppercorn, but those who aren’t so fond of the heat can also treat themselves to the mushroom, bone, or vegetable-based soups. (Pro tip: Although the menu only shows pairings of one spicy and one non-spicy broth for those wanting a two-soup-style option (PHP 450.00), you can also put in a special request for two different non-spicy broths.) And if that isn’t enough, you can also experiment with diversifying your flavor profile by sampling the restaurant’s impressive sauce station!
Address: Queensland Manor Building Rahmann St., Cebu City, Philippines
A delicious plate of Tender Beef (PHP 400.00) is perfect for cooking into a yin-yang hotpot.
Master Po
Those wanting to dine in some casual Chinese comfort food won’t be disappointed to add this option to their list! A sister restaurant to the locally beloved Ching Palace, Master Po leaves no doubt about the mouthwatering quality of its delectably affordable meals. From warm bowls of beef brisket noodles (PHP 244.00) and meatball congee (PHP 160.00) to sumptuous plates of roasted chicken rice (PHP 205.00) and Shanghai buns (PHP 120.00), this brightly decorated culinary establishment is truly a gem to find among the usual Cebuano options of upscale dim sum lauriats in the city.
In addition to that, Master Po is also recognized for its partnership with the Kidz Gym Therapy Center, providing a place for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to grow and develop. “I welcome kids from the center to help out Master Po,” said owner Jan Joan Yu-So. “Aside from helping our children, we also teach our customers to do away with discrimination and biases.”
Address: One Paseo, Saturnino Rd., Maria Luisa Road, Banilad 6000 Cebu City, Philippines
88 BBQ House (鼎记烧烤)
Did you know that you can find Sichuan-style barbecue in Cebu? This alfresco culinary establishment is definitely a must-try for the adventurous Chinese foodie, serving up sticks of lamb, beef, sausages, mantou (read: yes, you can apparently grill steamed bread!), and even frog to the table! Most if not all of these grilled items are generously coated with a uniquely flavorful spice rub, which can be adjusted according to your preferred spice levels.
But just because it’s a barbecue house doesn’t mean that savory meats are its only options! The restaurant also offers a fresh selection of seafood and stewed dishes for your culinary pleasure — try not to miss out on the golden mushrooms (PHP 200.00) and congealed duck blood (PHP 150]! Trust us, you won’t know what you’re missing unless you give it a good shot.
Address: A. Soriano Avenue, Mabolo, Cebu City, Philippines
Enjoy a wide selection of meats such as barbecued lamb (PHP 45.00/stick), beef (PHP 55.00/stick), sausages (PHP 60.00/stick), frog (price varies over seasons), and more!
Ocean Star Seafood Restaurant
What’s a Chinese food rec list without an option for some fancy lauriat? Those craving a feast of dim sum and fresh seafood can head over to Ocean Star Seafood Restaurant, which — as its name implies — holds an aquarium of live fish, crabs, lobsters, eels, and abalones for you to splurge on. (Note: Seasonal prices vary.)
Perfect for birthdays, lunar new year celebrations, and other special occasions for Chinese families to gather, Ocean Star Seafood Restaurant does what a Chinese restaurant does best: serving hot plates of great Chinese food with speed, efficiency, and a dedication to the classic palate with no false frills or pretension.
Address: Pope John Paul II Avenue, Mabolo, Cebu City, Philippines
Looking for more Cebuano restaurants? Check out our selection of Chinoy-owned establishments here!
