ASIDE from popular tourist destinations from mountains to beaches, Cebu is just as popular for its version of lechon (roasted suckling pig). It is one of the dishes that visitors never fail to taste when they reach the Queen City. The late Anthony Bourdain, a famous chef, ultimate foodie and TV host, said on his show “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown” that Cebu lechon is “the best pig in the world.”
What makes Cebu lechon stand out from the others is its unmistakable crispy red skin, and juicy, tender and flavorful meat. It is so flavorful that it can be eaten on its own without any sauce.
Helen’s Native Lechon, formerly known as Helen’s Lechon Cebu, has been roasting lechon since 1984. Since then, the taste of its famous lechon is still the same as it follows the traditional way of roasting the native dish—from preparing the pig to cooking it over a pit filled with hot charcoal.
After three decades of serving lechon and growing its clientele, Helen Ramin’s son, Leonardo “Neeboy” Ramin Jr.,—now the proprietor of Helen’s Lechon—realized that there are more delicacies on the island that needs to be showcased. That’s why he came up with the brand’s “Lechon Party Box.”
The Lechon Party Box is filled with appetizing items that even Cebuanos can’t say no to: Ngohiong, a deep-fried battered rice-paper roll filled with jicama and shredded coconut palm heart; chicharon bulaklak, deep-fried pork large intestines, a famous local appetizer and street food; pork sisig, a dish made from chopped pig head with liver; lumpiang Shanghai, a popular mainstay during Filipino gatherings; shaing, fried pork intestine; pork barbeque; dugo-dugo (blood stew), a Filipino stew made of pork meat cooked in pig’s blood, spices and vinegar; and of course, the Cebu lechon.
“We have so many gastronomic food choices that tourists need to try to complete their Cebu experience other than the famous Lechon. So I decided, ‘why not showcase these along with lechon?’ Our goal is to promote Cebu delicacies in a box. It’s like you’re going on a food trip without going from one place to another,” said Ramin.
The Lechon Party Box is also perfect for simple gatherings, island hopping and pasalubong. It is only available at its main outlet in M. Cuenco Ave., Cebu City. One may also order through Helen’s Native Lechon on Facebook or through 0927-878-3210 or 0998-793-7012. One is highly encouraged to place orders two days ahead.