Curious to try the famous bakasi eel? This is the best place to do it!
What’s the strangest thing you have eaten?
For some Cebuanos, it’s probably something fished from muddier parts of the ocean.
One of the most popular Cebu dishes is made up of the yellow-edged moray, more commonly known as the bakasi eel. These tiny saltwater eels are made into a savory stew, which is a popular delicacy of the town of Cordova.
Within the quiet residential neighborhood of Buagsong are several stores selling bakasi eel, which many residents and visitors flock to. Among the most famous is one that has been featured in a Netflix food documentary.
Entoy’s Bakasihan is the crown jewel of the town, famous for its modest setup but delicious homestyle cooking. Unlike other traditional pungko-pungko stalls, their meals consist of the freshest catches of the day.
Their bakasi eel stew is their bestseller, all thanks to the ingenuity of the store’s namesake, Florencio “Entoy” Escabas.
THE LEGEND OF ENTOY
This modest Filipino eatery in Buagsong is where it all started.
Entoy started as a small-time fisherman in Buagsong. The waters in this neighborhood are mostly muddy and grassy, but abundant in the bakasi eel.
“Bakasi” is the Bisaya term referring to the saltwater eels found in Cordova, which have become a massive source of income for its residents. These tiny baby eels are eight to twelve inches long, and can be cooked in a variety of ways.
Entoy made a living by fishing for bakasi eels at Buangsong and selling them to markets, but this only provided a modest income. He also cooked the dish for his friends and family.
He popularized the “linarang nga bakasi” which is a savory, slightly sweet stew. These are first sautéed, then added into a broth of flavorful ingredients like tomatoes and chilis.
It is notable for being soft and tender, but with a rich umami flavor.
Bakasi is usually paired with rice, but Entoy’s uses corn rice, which is thicker and has a rough exterior. This is perfect for tinuwa dishes like bakasi, since the soup softens the rice.
After serving the dish to his friends, they encouraged him to sell the dish to the public. In 2002, Entoy officially opened his small stall by the sea in Buasong, where residents could try his bakasi eel recipe.
Entoy’s is the oldest and most popular store serving bakasi in Cordova, gaining a positive reputation from around Cebu. It is almost always jam-packed with customers ranging from students to employees, even adventurous tourists.
Soon after, the eatery expanded its menu, serving other Filipino seafood dishes like stuffed squid and saang. They offer a fried version of the bakasi eel as well.
It’s now considered a local delicacy, serving as the inspiration for the town’s festival every August. It got so popular that it was featured on the Street Food Asia documentary on Netflix.
In 2020, Entoy passed away suddenly from acute coronary syndrome after struggling with a long battle against heart enlargement. He left the world with an indelible mark that has become an important part of Cebu’s culinary scene.
BENEFITS OF THE BAKASI EEL
The bakasi eel is fished off Kamampay Beach right behind Entoy’s.
Similar to other types of fish, bakasi is rich in protein, aiding in muscle growth and repair.
Some have also stated that it aids in skin regeneration because of its high collagen content.
The bakasi eel is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids as well, which are good for heart and brain health, and it reduces inflammation in the body.
However, its most popular benefit is how it boosts energy.
At first glance, the dish may be a bit intimidating to eat, but many residents from Cordova will say you’re missing out if you don’t give this delicious meal a try.
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Cordova is considered the bakasi capital of the Philippines, and that is in no small part because of Entoy. Starting out as a town fisherman, his risk into starting a business was well worth it.
Today, you can try out their delicious, world-class bakasi eel stew. Scary as it may be, this dish has played a vital role in highlighting exotic food in the Philippines.
HOW TO GET THERE
Exact Location:
Buagsong, Cordova, Cebu
Operating Hours:
6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
The best way to commute to Entoy’s is to ride a tricycle or habal-habal by the highway. Ask the driver to take you to the tip of Buagsong.
Entoy’s is located on the left side of the road, right in front of the beach.
