Cebu has become a second home for many Koreans. As the two cultures quickly merge, Filipinos have gained a penchant for pop music, K-drama, and especially their food. Many Cebuanos have even regularized their Samgyeopsal food trip, making it a monthly event, while for others, it’s a weekly habit.

by VANESSA AMMANN

SAMGYEOPSAL, OR samgyupsal, which translates as three-layered meat, is a Korean grilled pork belly. Using the soft part of the abdomen under the loin, the fat and meat appearwith three visible layers when cut.

Whether you are into the mouth-watering grilled fatty taste, or there for the soju pairing, or are just out to try new cuisines, going to a Korean self-cook Samgyeopsal restaurant is a culinary experience. Eating grilled meat and savoring its natural taste is always acceptable, but dipping it in your preferred sauce is the best way to appreciate a Korean meal. Ssamjang is the commonly used condiment for grilled meats, as it perfectly complements Korean barbecue. A thick and spicy sauce made of fermented soybean paste, red chili paste, and sesame oil, it is traditionally slathered in a samgyeopsal lettuce wrap. Another sauce is gochujang; while similar in taste and color, it is generally spicier.

Have your DIY grilling adventure at any of these popular Samgyeopsal restos around town. You’re surely find one you will love.

SAMGYUPSALAMAT

A favorite catch-up place with the barkada, they offer unlimited Korean barbecue at a budget-friendly price of Php549. Choose from ready-to-cook cuts of pork and beef with an assortment of delicious side dishes, including their latest addition, fried chicken balls. There are five branches in Cebu.

Opens Daily | 11:00am to 10:00pm

Branches:

• The Ridges Commercial Center F. Cabahug St., Mabolo

• Oakridge Business Park, A.S Fortuna St., Mandaue City

• Ayala Central Bloc IT Park, Lahug Cebu City

• Jamestown, Mantawi Drive, Mandaue City

• Island Central Mactan

KAYA KOREAN BARBECUE

The relaxed ambiance at KAYA makes you enjoy the rich flavors of their Korean cuisine even more. Featuring premium meats and a variety of side dishes, it’s a great place for a Samgyeopsal date or family dining. Locals often recommend it for its delicious offerings at their two branches.

Opens Daily | 12:00nn to 4:00am

Cebu City: 2nd Flr. Bonifacio District, F. Cabahug St., Kasambagan, Cebu City Mactan: G/F, City Time Square, Basak, Lapu-Lapu City

PEARL MEAT SHOP AND RESTAURANT

A meat shop and restaurant, Pearl is widely known to be the first samgyeopsal outlet in Cebu. With accessible branches all around, the popular restaurant offers unlimited meats for diners. Well stocked with a wide variety of local and imported cuts — it is, after all, a meat shop. Being such, you can also choose your meat, have it sliced to your desired thickness, bring it home, and have

sizzling fun with family and friends at your samgyeopsal party.

Opens Daily | 9:00am to 12:00mn

• A.S Fortuna Mandaue City

• Gaisano Countrymall, Banilad

• Capitol Site Osmeña Blvd., Cebu City

PREMIER THE SAMGYUPSAL

The popular Manila restaurant specializing in Korean barbecue opened its doors in Cebu in 2019. After a two-year lockdown period, Premier The Samgyupsal is still well-received. Never compromising on quality, their Unlimited Samgyupsal menu offers a variety of meats, side dishes, and marinades, all refillable. In addition, the dining experience is leveled up with its attentive staff. Their first Cebu branch at Jamestown in Mandaue, with private rooms, will soon be joined by a second one at IL Corso Lifemalls.

Opens Daily | 11:00am to 10:00pm

Jamestown, Mantawi Drive (beside Chong Hua Hospital), Mandaue City