If you're craving for one of the best lechon in Cebu, this is a place that comes highly recommended. The spicy lechon that we got was ok, I thought the crispy buntot was the nicest, the kare kare sauce was too thick and flavorless, the crispy kangkong was tasty and the scallops were ok. It took 45 minutes waiting time for all our orders to be served. No visible staffs waiting around the dining area.
Overview
If you're craving the best lechon in Cebu, there's no place better than Rico's Lechon Cebu located along Mantawe Ave in Mandaue. Whether you're a local or a visitor to the area, this spot has quickly become a favorite for anyone who loves perfectly roasted, melt-in-your-mouth pork.
The moment you step inside, you'll immediately notice the casual yet welcoming atmosphere. It’s not fancy, but it’s cozy and full of character, making it an ideal place for families, friends, or even a quick solo meal. The vibrant energy of the staff adds to the charm, giving you the feeling that you’re not just a customer but a part of the Rico’s family.
Rico’s Lechon Cebu is renowned for its lechon, a local dish of roasted pork that's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It’s not just any lechon, though. The secret lies in their special marinade, which includes a perfect blend of herbs and spices, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. The skin, crispy and golden brown, provides that satisfying crunch, while the meat remains tender, juicy, and flavorful from the inside out.
When you visit, don’t skip their signature side dishes. The garlic rice is a crowd favorite, served hot and perfectly seasoned, complementing the lechon. They also offer various dipping sauces that elevate the flavor profile of the pork. From the tangy vinegar to the slightly sweet soy-based sauce, each one adds a unique twist to the meal. For those who prefer something more daring, they even have spicy options that bring a bold kick to the mix.
What sets Rico’s Lechon Cebu apart is not just the quality of their food, but also the level of service. The staff here are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. They’ll guide you through the different options, helping you choose the best dishes to suit your taste. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, you’ll always feel like a valued guest.
Aside from lechon, they also offer a variety of other Filipino dishes, from crispy pata to sinigang. You can opt for a hearty meal with a selection of dishes or stick to the classic lechon feast. The menu is perfect for both meat lovers and those who want to explore a range of Filipino flavors.
If you’re visiting for the first time, you might want to try the Lechon Cebu platter, which is served with a generous portion of their famous roasted pork and all the essential sides. It’s a complete meal that showcases the best of what the restaurant has to offer. The portions are also very generous, making it great value for money, especially if you're sharing with a group.
The location on Mantawe Ave is easily accessible and is perfect for those looking to explore the city. If you're coming from the heart of Cebu City, it's just a short drive away. The restaurant is strategically positioned to serve not only locals in Mandaue but also visitors from all over. Whether you're stopping by for a quick bite or planning a family gathering, Rico's Lechon Cebu offers a great spot to indulge in some of the finest local cuisine.
In terms of reviews, this place consistently gets rave feedback from customers. Many mention how the quality of the lechon never wavers, and the overall dining experience is always pleasant. The flavors are bold, yet balanced, and the atmosphere is relaxed, making it a perfect place for both casual meals and special occasions.
For those planning an event or gathering, Rico’s Lechon Cebu also offers catering services, ensuring you can bring their famous lechon to your celebration. It’s a great way to make any occasion memorable, with their signature lechon as the star of the show.
Overall, if you’re in Cebu and you haven’t yet tried Rico’s Lechon Cebu, you’re definitely missing out. With its delicious lechon, friendly service, and welcoming ambiance, it’s no wonder why this place has become a go-to destination for both locals and tourists alike. Make sure to add it to your list the next time you're in the area-your taste buds will thank you.
Good to know
Service options
âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-inPopular for
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Solo diningAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible car park âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seatingOfferings
âś“ Alcohol âś“ Beer âś“ Coffee âś“ Quick bite âś“ Small platesDining options
âś“ Brunch âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Dessert âś“ Seating âś“ Table serviceAmenities
âś“ ToiletAtmosphere
âś“ Casual âś“ TrendyCrowd
âś“ Groups âś“ Tourists âś“ University studentsPlanning
âś“ Accepts reservationsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cardsChildren
âś“ Good for kids âś“ High chairsParking
âś“ Free of charge street parking âś“ Free parking lot âś“ ParkingPhotos
Reviews
Uhmm... Lechon is tasty. But why is the skin not crispy? Kinda strange and disappointing, since we arrived opening time. Otherwise, the other orders re good, like the balbacua, streamed sea bass...
One of the places to try lechon in Cebu. We tasted both the original and spicy. The meat was tender and juicy, the skin crispy, everything you could want in lechon. We also got the garlic fried rice to go on the side which was super garlicky and tasty. The perfect combo. Check out our channel for a full review of our experience: Hungry Two Travel.
Wow. Just wow. Tbh, the tuna tail was better than the lechon, but overall, this restaurant has many great options. As we were leaving for Cebu, we were told to try the lechon (smoked pig over a fire) at Rico’s. We had lechon in the northern Philippine providence of Pangasinan and Rico’s was just as good, imo. We went at 4:00pm on a Saturday and it was quiet. Service was standard, nothing above, nothing under par. We ate many other dishes than the Lechon and that is what made this place a 5 star. Everything was very delicious including the seafood lumpia and baked scallops (clams). They also have lots of halo-halo options and shakes (smoothies), which I recommend too.
Food: 4/5 Good lechon, great veggies as well. Chorizo was okay. Service: 5/5 Good service Ambiance: 4/5 Good ambince, crowded