The Cebuano food park craze arguably started when Sugbo Mercado welcomed food enthusiasts, travelers, and even audiophiles to a new hip hangout destination. The park allowed foodies to try all kinds of foods and treats that they would not otherwise try in various local markets. Soon, more parks with a similar concept emerged, and the brand of the Cebu City nightlife in IT Park swept Cebuanos away. Though there are many like it, nothing can top the “OG” street food phenomenon that is the Sugbo Mercado.
THE ORIGINAL CEBU FOOD PARK
WHAT IS THERE TO TRY AT SUGBO MERCADO?
There is a whole feast waiting for you at the Sugbo Mercado, as the options they offer will leave you scrambling with excited curiosity. From mouth-watering, savory meals to sugar rush-inducing desserts, all of which are relatively affordable for the average joe. It almost warrants a second visit, especially if there are other food stalls whose products you didn’t get to try. There are those that specialize in all things Asian, some that cater to drinks and beverages only, and different types of meals and recipes that you won’t be able to find anywhere else. From the comforting to the exotic, there is a dish for every type of foodie.
There are also many stalls that offer Filipino classics, like Chicken Adobo and Lechon, for those who want a lesson in Filipino Cuisine. After enjoying a sumptuous meal, you can satisfy your sweet tooth with the plethora of desserts at your disposal.
This is an ideal place for long conversations with friends and family, as food brings about many emotions and feelings, even conjuring memories of the happiest days of our lives. There are many individuals from different walks of life queuing to grab a bite of what could be Cebu’s next culinary delicacy, and there is an adequate amount for everyone you meet along the way.
Sugbo Mercado is possibly the best place to unwind in Cebu, with the open air giving a relaxing yet energetic aura to the surroundings. Unfortunately, the place is not completely covered, so the rain would not be your friend. Luckily, there are seats that are strategically placed under several big tents, so if getting caught in the rain is your concern, then it would be best to stay in one of these tents.
This is also a great place if you want to jam to some tunes performed by a live band in Cebu. Acoustic performers come in to entertain the hungry visitors with their smooth voices and neat instruments. If you want to sing along to a specific song, you may request it, assuming the band knows it. You might even get the chance to go on stage and perform if they ask for volunteers from the audience.
That all sounds great, but where exactly in IT Park is the Sugbo Mercado? The park is located at the Garden Bloc, which is situated right behind the terminal where public utility vehicles pick up passengers right across Ayala Central Bloc. With a few steps from the terminal, you can already experience many of the tasty treats at the famous food park.
Sugbo Mercado is just a speck of the vast lifestyle capital known as IT Park. With so many exciting things to do in Cebu, hanging out in this business and recreational park hybrid is a no-brainer. The aforementioned Ayala Central Bloc is a great shopping mall if you want to go on a late night shopping spree. Though smaller than its older brother, Ayala Center Cebu, there are still many shops you can visit to pass the time.
The restaurants at IT Park do not stop at the Sugbo Mercado. The Pyramid is situated right behind the food park if you want a fancier feel for your date night. You can also try out the large portions of Casa Verde’s baby back ribs or experience the chic and captivating atmosphere at Ambiance.
If you think that IT Park is too far, there are many other food parks around the city that you can try out. The Market in Mandaue City is another branch that the Sugbo Mercado has opened. It is located near Parkmall, across from Chong Hua Hospital. Other food parks in Cebu include the Yahay Food Park in Talisay and the Tambayan Food Park in Barangay Bulacao.
The best place for a food trip in Cebu is found in the food park that started it all. It is a must to remember how to get to Sugbo Mercado since it is a great hotspot for the hungry beast inside you. The options are endless, the atmosphere is through the roof, and people just want to have a good time. If you are looking for a great hangout spot where you can enjoy an array of delicious and mouth-watering food, then this is the place to be.