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Have BBQ at Larsian Night Market: The Ultimate 2025 Guide

Have BBQ at Larsian Night Market: The Ultimate 2025 Guide

Looking for an unforgettable local food experience in Cebu City? Head to Larsian Night Market, where the aroma of grilled meat, the buzz of locals and tourists alike, and the unmistakable Cebuano hospitality come together for a feast like no other.

Located just a short walk from Fuente Osmeña Circle, Larsian has been a beloved Cebu institution for decades. It’s not just about the food—it’s about the atmosphere: smoky stalls, endless skewers, sticky rice (puso), and eating with your hands like a true local.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning visitor, this 2025 guide will walk you through everything you need to know—how to order, what to try, how to avoid common tourist mistakes, and where to find the best stalls.


What Is Larsian Night Market?

Larsian Night Market is one of Cebu City’s most famous open-air barbecue hubs, located near the Fuente Osmeña Circle and just across from Chong Hua Hospital. Since the 1970s, Larsian has been a gathering place for locals, students, workers, and tourists craving affordable and authentic Filipino-style grilled food.

The name “Larsian” comes from the combination of two words—“Lars” and “Sian,” derived from the mother’s name of one of the original stall owners. Over time, what started as a small group of stalls grew into a smoky, flavor-filled arena of more than 20 vendors competing to serve the best BBQ pork, chicken, chorizo, seafood, and more.

Although the market went through a temporary closure and renovations, it was re-launched with improved seating and sanitation facilities, while keeping its street-food charm intact.

Larsian is not just a place to eat—it’s a Cebuano experience: loud, smoky, bustling, and absolutely delicious.


Must-Try BBQ Dishes at Larsian

Larsian isn’t just any BBQ spot—it’s a carnival of grilled flavors. As you walk through the smoke-filled lanes, dozens of skewers will tempt you from all directions. Here are the must-try items that define the Larsian experience:


Pork BBQ

The classic. Marinated in sweet-savory sauce and grilled until slightly charred. Tender, juicy, and addictively flavorful.


Chicken Inasal / BBQ

Chicken wings, thighs, or drumsticks—grilled to smoky perfection. Try it with calamansi and chili-soy sauce.


Cebu Chorizo

Sweet and garlicky local sausage. It’s round, reddish, and bursting with flavor. A Cebuano favorite.


Grilled Seafood

Depending on the season, you might find squid (pusit), fish fillets, or even scallops. Grilled and brushed with butter or soy sauce.


Isaw (Chicken Intestine)

For the adventurous eater. Marinated and grilled crispy. Locals love it!


Tinae (Pork Intestine) & Tenga (Pork Ear)

Yes, you read that right—Filipino BBQ gets creative. If you’re curious, give it a try. Just say “one stick of tinae, please.”


Puso (Hanging Rice)

No Larsian BBQ is complete without puso—rice packed inside woven coconut leaves. You eat it with your hands!


Tip: Mix soy sauce, calamansi, vinegar, and chili in a small bowl—this is your ultimate BBQ dip.


How to Order and Eat at Larsian

Dining at Larsian Night Market can feel overwhelming at first—but don’t worry, it’s part of the fun! Here’s how to navigate it like a pro:


Step 1: Choose Your Stall

You’ll be welcomed (sometimes aggressively) by tindera from each stall waving menus and inviting you in. Take your time—each stall offers slightly different marinades or specialties. Some are known for their chorizo, others for seafood.


Step 2: Pick Your Skewers

Point at the raw skewers you want. Most vendors display a wide range: pork, chicken, fish, sausages, intestines, even vegetables. You’ll see signs like “Buy 5 Get 1 Free.”


Step 3: They Grill It Fresh

Once you’ve picked your items, the staff will grill them over open flames. You can sit down while you wait—grilling usually takes 10–20 minutes depending on the queue.


️ Step 4: Eat with Your Hands (Optional, but Fun!)

Your food is served on a tray, usually with puso (hanging rice) and dipping sauces. Many locals eat with their hands (kamayan style)—no judgment either way!


Step 5: Drinks & Add-ons

Soft drinks, bottled water, and sometimes buko juice are available. Some stalls also offer soups or sinuglaw (grilled pork + ceviche).


Step 6: Pay After the Meal

Larsian is very casual—there’s no upfront payment. Just enjoy your food, then pay at the stall you ordered from. Most meals cost ₱150–₱300 per person.


How to Get to Larsian Night Market

Larsian Night Market is centrally located in Cebu City, making it accessible from most tourist hubs. Here’s how you can get there easily, whether you’re staying in IT Park, near the port, or anywhere in between:


Exact Location

Larsian Night Market is located along Don Mariano Cui Street, near Fuente Osmeña Circle, and directly across from Chong Hua Hospital.


By Taxi or Grab

This is the easiest and most comfortable way. Just type “Larsian Cebu” into Grab or tell your taxi driver “Larsian, near Fuente.”

  • From Ayala Center: ~10–15 mins, ₱120–₱150

  • From SM Seaside: ~15–20 mins, ₱150–₱180

  • From Mactan Airport: ~30–45 mins, ₱250–₱350


By Jeepney

For the more adventurous, you can take a jeepney heading toward “Jones Ave” or “Fuente.” Ask the driver if it passes Chong Hua Hospital or Fuente Circle.

Fare: ₱13 only!


Walking

If you’re staying near Fuente Osmeña, Larsian is just a 3–5 minute walk. It’s a great way to build your appetite before the BBQ feast.


Tips for First-Time Visitors

To make your Larsian BBQ adventure even better, keep these insider tips in mind:


Dress Casually

It’s a smoky environment. Wear clothes you don’t mind smelling like BBQ afterward. Avoid white or delicate fabrics.


Bring Wet Wipes or Alcohol

Eating with your hands is part of the fun, but it’s best to have wipes or hand sanitizer ready, especially since restrooms are basic.


Best Time to Visit

Larsian gets busy around 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Come early if you want shorter waits and more stall options.


Check Skewer Prices First

Some stalls display prices clearly, but not all. Ask before ordering to avoid surprises. Most skewers range from ₱10 to ₱40.


Mix Your Own Sauce

Don’t forget to make your own dipping sauce! Mix soy sauce, vinegar, calamansi, and chili—every table has these condiments.


No Takeout Smell Protection

If you plan to bring leftovers home, know that BBQ smells cling. Plastic bags provided won’t mask the aroma, so keep that in mind.


Cash Only

No GCash, no cards—bring small bills. Expect to pay between ₱150–₱300 depending on your appetite.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Where is Larsian Night Market located?

Larsian Night Market is located on Don Mariano Cui Street, near Fuente Osmeña Circle and across from Chong Hua Hospital in Cebu City.

What time does Larsian open?

Larsian typically opens in the late afternoon around 4:00 PM and stays open until midnight or later. Peak hours are from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

How much does food cost at Larsian?

Most skewers range from ₱10 to ₱40. A full meal with several skewers and rice typically costs ₱150–₱300 per person.

Can I pay with credit card or GCash?

No. Most stalls accept cash only, so be sure to bring small bills.

Is it safe to eat at Larsian?

Yes, Larsian is popular with locals and tourists alike. While it’s a casual street-style setup, food is cooked fresh in front of you. Bring hand sanitizer and wipes for cleanliness.

Do they offer vegetarian options?

Vegetarian options are limited, but you may find grilled corn, eggplant, or tofu skewers depending on the vendor. Most dishes are meat-based.


Final Thoughts: A Must-Try BBQ Experience in Cebu

Larsian Night Market isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a living, breathing piece of Cebuano culture. From the smoky scent of charcoal-grilled skewers to the chorus of vendors calling out, the atmosphere is electric, authentic, and unforgettable.

Whether you’re a food adventurer trying pork intestines for the first time, or just craving Cebu-style chorizo with puso rice, Larsian welcomes you with open flames and full flavor. It’s a budget-friendly, local-approved, and nightlife-flavored experience you won’t find in any mall or restaurant.

So on your next Cebu trip, skip the fancy dining. Grab a skewer, sit on a plastic bench, and taste Cebu the way locals do. Larsian is waiting.


ChatGPT Prompt (for Travelers and Writers)

Write a travel review or plan your visit to Larsian Night Market in Cebu

Use this prompt to generate an itinerary, review, or summary about Larsian Night Market—from what to eat to how to get there. Perfect for first-timers or food blog writers.

I'm planning to visit Larsian Night Market in Cebu. Could you help me write a short travel guide or review that includes:
- What makes Larsian special
- What skewers or BBQ options are must-tries
- How to get there from central Cebu
- Any tips for first-time visitors
Write it in an informative yet fun tone.