️Sugbo Mercado IT Park – The Best Night Market for Food Lovers in Cebu (2025 Edition)

✍️ Introduction

If you ask any Cebuano where to go on a weekend night for great food, good vibes, and a lively atmosphere, there’s a high chance they’ll give you just one answer: Sugbo Mercado.

Located in the heart of IT Park—Cebu’s booming business and lifestyle district—Sugbo Mercado has become the premier night market in the city, and arguably in all of the Visayas. It’s where students, tourists, digital nomads, and professionals come together to enjoy an endless variety of flavors—from sizzling Filipino barbecue to Korean street eats, Japanese takoyaki, Mexican burritos, and trendy desserts that go viral on TikTok.

But Sugbo Mercado isn’t just another food market. It’s a symbol of Cebu’s evolving street food culture, where traditional flavors meet modern twists, and local entrepreneurs get a platform to shine.

️ A Short History: From Humble Beginnings to Cebu’s #1 Night Market

Launched in September 2015, Sugbo Mercado began as a modest weekend food bazaar with only a handful of stalls. Its goal was simple: to create a curated, consistent space for Cebuano food entrepreneurs to showcase their products in a safe, accessible, and enjoyable environment.

The organizers, seeing the potential of IT Park’s open spaces and young population, set up shop at the Garden Bloc—a central, grassy area surrounded by BPO offices, residential condos, and student hubs.

As word spread and foot traffic grew, so did the scale of the event. Within a year, Sugbo Mercado expanded to dozens of vendors, with a wide array of offerings that reflected Cebu’s diverse culinary spirit. It soon gained a reputation as the go-to destination for street food done right: hygienic, exciting, and community-oriented.

Why It’s Perfect for Food Lovers

By 2025, Sugbo Mercado has grown into more than just a food spot—it’s become a weekend ritual for thousands.

Here’s what makes it especially beloved:

• Diversity of flavors: Whether you’re a meat lover, vegetarian, sweet tooth, or spice hunter, you’ll find something made for you.

• Affordable prices: Most meals cost between PHP 100–250, making it ideal for students and budget travelers.

• Safe and secure: With roving guards, proper lighting, and a family-friendly crowd, it’s one of the safest outdoor spaces in Cebu after dark.

• Live entertainment: From acoustic singers to local DJs, the energy is always upbeat but never overwhelming.

• Social experience: Long wooden tables, open seating, and communal vibes make it easy to strike up conversations and enjoy meals with friends—or strangers who become friends.

For many 3D ACADEMY students, Sugbo Mercado is not just a food adventure—it’s one of the first places where they truly connect with local culture.

Chapter 1: What Is Sugbo Mercado?

Sugbo Mercado is more than just a night market—it’s a modern Cebuano tradition.

Every Thursday through Sunday evening, a large open area in IT Park’s Garden Bloc transforms into a vibrant street food village filled with the aroma of sizzling meats, the buzz of happy conversations, and the sound of live acoustic music echoing through the trees. For both locals and visitors, it’s the ultimate weekend hangout spot—a place to unwind, eat, socialize, and experience the modern soul of Cebu.

But what exactly is Sugbo Mercado?

Let’s break it down.

Where Is It Located?

Sugbo Mercado is located in IT Park, Lahug, which is one of the most modern and well-developed areas in Cebu City. It sits in the middle of Garden Bloc, surrounded by tall office buildings, residential condominiums, co-working spaces, and hotels.

For students at 3D ACADEMY, it’s only about 3–5 minutes by Grab or a short jeepney ride, making it easily accessible even after evening classes.

This central location is part of what makes Sugbo Mercado so popular—it’s safe, well-lit, and in an area known for being foreigner-friendly. Unlike traditional wet markets or downtown food spots, there’s no need to worry about dirty alleys or suspicious food preparation here.

⏰ When Is It Open?

Sugbo Mercado operates four days a week:

• Thursday to Sunday

• From 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM

Most people arrive between 6:30 PM and 9:30 PM, which is when the atmosphere is at its liveliest. While you can go early to avoid the lines, the real energy kicks in after sunset, when the lights come on, the grills fire up, and the performers take the stage.

️ What’s the Setup Like?

Unlike some cramped night markets, Sugbo Mercado is well-organized and thoughtfully laid out. Here’s what to expect:

• Dozens of individual food stalls, each offering a specific dish or cuisine (Korean, Filipino, Japanese, Mexican, vegan, dessert-focused, etc.)

• Open-air communal dining areas, with large wooden tables and benches

• Central performance space, where live musicians, DJs, or entertainers perform on weekends

• Waste disposal and handwashing stations, to help keep things clean and hygienic

• Security and first-aid staff on-site

It’s a modern night market that combines the energy of a street fair with the organization of a pop-up food festival.

What Makes It Unique?

1. Focus on local entrepreneurs
   Many of the vendors at Sugbo Mercado are small Cebuano businesses. Some are food trucks testing new concepts, while others are home chefs who grew their customer base through weekend exposure.

2. Blend of tradition and trend
   You’ll find both classic Filipino street food (like lechon belly, grilled squid, or sisig) and new-wave fusion items (like kimchi tacos, ramen burgers, or matcha-infused desserts).

3. Cebuano vibes, globally accessible
   While it’s deeply local in flavor, Sugbo Mercado is also extremely accessible to international visitors. Most vendors speak basic English, menus are clear and photo-rich, and the crowd includes both locals and expats.

Who Goes to Sugbo Mercado?

• Local office workers winding down after work

• University students meeting friends

• Expats and tourists exploring the Cebu food scene

• Young families enjoying a casual dinner out

• 3D ACADEMY students who want a fun, affordable weekend plan

There’s no strict dress code, no reservations, and no pressure—just come as you are, hungry and curious.

Payment Options in 2025

Gone are the days when you had to bring exact change. As of 2025, most vendors accept cashless payments, including:

• GCash

• Maya (formerly PayMaya)

• QR Ph (standardized QR codes)

• Select vendors even accept credit cards or mobile wallets from abroad

That said, bringing PHP 300–500 in cash is still recommended, especially for first-timers.

In Summary

Sugbo Mercado is a safe, clean, and exciting way to experience Cebu’s street food culture—without leaving the comfort of IT Park. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, regulars, and anyone looking to eat well, spend little, and connect with the city in a casual, authentic way.

Whether you’re in the mood for spicy Korean BBQ, Cebuano chorizo, handcrafted gelato, or vegan sushi rolls—Sugbo Mercado has it all.

Chapter 2: What to Eat – Must-Try Food Stalls in 2025

With over 40 stalls rotating every weekend, choosing what to eat at Sugbo Mercado can feel overwhelming—in the best way possible. From sizzling meats to cold desserts, traditional Filipino dishes to international street snacks, there’s something for everyone.

In 2025, the market continues to evolve with new culinary trends and refined crowd favorites. Here’s a curated list of stalls and dishes that stand out this year, based on student reviews, social media buzz, and our own visits.

1. Barikata Ramen Bar

Category: Japanese Ramen
Why Try It: A locally grown brand with authentic tonkotsu broth, firm noodles, and optional chashu pork. Perfect on a rainy night.
Must-try: Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen – PHP 250
2025 Update: Now offering vegan miso ramen and QR code table service.

2. Seoul Street

Category: Korean Skewers & Fried Snacks
Why Try It: One of the busiest stalls. Crispy Korean hotdogs, tteokbokki, fish cakes, and flavorful Korean-style sauces.
Must-try: Mozzarella Cheese Corndog – PHP 130
2025 Update: New menu items include Rose Tteokbokki and Bulgogi Wraps.

3. Ribzilla

Category: Filipino-American BBQ
Why Try It: Huge servings, juicy ribs, bold sauces. A crowd favorite for meat lovers.
Must-try: Baby Back Ribs with Rice – PHP 280
2025 Update: Now with Smoky Hickory Chicken Bowl (more affordable at PHP 150).

4. Guiltless Eats

Category: Healthy / Vegan
Why Try It: Perfect for health-conscious diners. Plant-based wraps, quinoa bowls, tofu sisig.
Must-try: Vegan Sisig Rice Bowl – PHP 180
2025 Update: Expanded gluten-free dessert menu and cold-pressed juice bar.

5. Shrimp on the Go

Category: Seafood
Why Try It: Fresh, garlicky, and satisfying. Shrimp, crab, and squid cooked right in front of you.
Must-try: Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bowl – PHP 200
2025 Update: Added Spicy Cajun Option and customizable toppings.

6. Blissful Bites

Category: Desserts & Baked Goods
Why Try It: Instagrammable cakes, banana bread, cupcakes, and gooey cookies.
Must-try: Matcha Lava Cake – PHP 120
2025 Update: All items now available in sugar-free or low-carb variants.

7. Thirsty Crush

Category: Fresh Drinks & Smoothies
Why Try It: Real fruit blends, milk teas, and coconut-based shakes.
Must-try: Mango Yakult Slush – PHP 90
2025 Update: Reusable cup discount program launched.

8. Bored Burrito

Category: Mexican Fusion
Why Try It: Giant burritos, nachos, and quesadillas with Cebuano twist.
Must-try: Adobo Burrito – PHP 200
2025 Update: Now offering “Build Your Own Burrito” with rice/noodle/wrap base.

9. Kusina ni Lola

Category: Traditional Filipino
Why Try It: Hearty local dishes just like home—kare-kare, lechon kawali, pancit canton.
Must-try: Kare-Kare with Bagoong – PHP 170
2025 Update: Now using organic vegetables and coconut oil.

10. Dimsum Time

Category: Chinese
Why Try It: Affordable dumplings, siomai, and fried rice. Simple and satisfying.
Must-try: 4-piece Pork Siomai with Fried Rice – PHP 120
2025 Update: Added chili garlic oil bar and vegetarian siomai options.

Trending in 2025

• Charcoal Ice Cream and Galaxy Lemonade – very popular with TikTok and Instagram users.

• Flaming Cheese Ramen – spicy, photo-worthy, and highly shareable.

• DIY Skewer Grill Kits – grill your own meat on mini tableside stoves.

Typical Prices

Budgeting PHP 300–500 per visit will let you enjoy a full meal, a drink, and dessert comfortably.

️ Chapter 3: Is It Safe for Foreigners and Students?

Safety is one of the top concerns for international students, especially when exploring a foreign city at night. The good news is that Sugbo Mercado is considered one of the safest nighttime destinations in Cebu City—and here’s why.

1. Located in IT Park – Cebu’s Modern Business Hub

Sugbo Mercado is located inside IT Park, Lahug, which is widely known as one of the most secure, clean, and foreigner-friendly areas in Cebu.

IT Park is home to multinational companies, luxury condominiums, co-working spaces, and major hotel chains like Seda and Waterfront. With 24/7 security patrols, CCTV surveillance, and a well-maintained urban environment, it is miles apart from the chaotic downtown streets like Colon or Carbon Market.

For 3D ACADEMY students, this means you can visit Sugbo Mercado with much more confidence, even in the evening.

2. Visible Security Presence

Sugbo Mercado itself hires its own security staff, in addition to those patrolling the surrounding Garden Bloc and IT Park premises. Expect to see:

• Uniformed guards at entry points

• Patrol officers walking throughout the event

• Bag checks upon entry (especially on busy nights)

• First aid station on-site

This creates a secure and well-regulated environment that feels more like a community fair than a street market.

3. Bright Lighting and Open Layout

Unlike narrow downtown alleys or dimly lit sidewalks, Sugbo Mercado is brightly lit with overhead lights, vendor spotlights, and well-placed lanterns that make the space highly visible. There are no tight corners, hidden areas, or dark zones. The open layout also allows students and groups to easily locate each other.

Even after 9 PM, the entire market remains lively, comfortable, and safe to walk around.

4. Easy Transportation Access

One of the biggest risks when visiting places like Colon Night Market is getting back home safely. That’s not a problem here.

• Grab cars are readily available in IT Park (usually within 5 minutes)

• Taxi lanes are located near Ayala Central Bloc and The Walk

• Jeepney terminals are available just outside the park gates

3D ACADEMY students can safely return to JY Square or Lahug area in under 10–15 minutes.

Pro tip: Book your Grab in advance during peak hours (9–10 PM) to avoid surge pricing.

5. Foreigner-Friendly Environment

Sugbo Mercado is used to having tourists, expats, and foreign students. Most vendors can communicate in basic English, and the crowd is very inclusive.

No one will stare, follow, or bother you for being a foreigner. In fact, many of the customers are Korean, Japanese, American, and European expats who live or work nearby.

This makes it a perfect place for 3D students to practice English, meet locals, and simply enjoy Cebu nightlife without stress.

✅ Summary: Is It Safe?

✅ Recommended for first-time visitors, solo travelers, and students.

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Voices from 3D Students

️ Yuka (Japan)
“I was nervous about going out at night at first, but Sugbo Mercado felt safe and welcoming. I tried Filipino BBQ and mango shake—it was delicious and very affordable. I now go almost every Friday with my dorm mates.”

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️ Pedro (Brazil)
“This place is amazing. I love the vibe—open air, live music, cheap food, and friendly people. I met students from Korea, Vietnam, and the Philippines while waiting in line for ramen. 100% recommend it to other 3D students.”

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️ Jasmine (France)
“I went after class with my roommates. We shared a seafood platter, some tempura, and got bubble tea. It was so fun, and the walk around IT Park afterward was nice. It felt very safe, even at 10 PM.”

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️ Minho (South Korea)
“I love street food, but Colon Night Market felt too dangerous. Sugbo Mercado is much better. Korean food is also available—tteokbokki, kimbap, and even Korean-style fried chicken. It’s like a small K-Food festival.”

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️ Trang (Vietnam)
“I tried sisig, lechon belly, and Cebu-style mango float for the first time here. I liked that vendors were friendly and explained the food to me. Even if you don’t speak perfect English, you’ll enjoy it here.”

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️ Ahmed (Egypt)
“The best part of my week! I use this to practice my English with vendors, meet people, and relax. Very different from traditional markets—clean, organized, and foreigner-friendly.”

Final Thoughts: Why Sugbo Mercado Belongs on Your Weekend List

For 3D ACADEMY students living in Cebu, weekends are the perfect time to step outside the classroom and explore what the city has to offer. And if there’s one place that combines safety, fun, variety, and authentic local experience—it’s Sugbo Mercado.

Located just 10 to 15 minutes away from 3D ACADEMY, Sugbo Mercado is more than just a night market. It’s:

• A culinary adventure, offering everything from Filipino street food to Korean snacks, Japanese ramen, and healthy vegan bowls.

• A safe, open-air space where you can relax after a long study week, even if you go solo.

• A social hotspot where you’ll meet locals, fellow international students, and sometimes even your teachers enjoying a weekend treat.

• A budget-friendly dining option, with meals and drinks easily under PHP 500.

Whether you’re new to Cebu or nearing the end of your study program, Sugbo Mercado is one of those places you shouldn’t miss. It’s where your taste buds can explore, your ears can enjoy live music, and your friendships can grow.

So next Thursday or Friday night—gather your dorm mates, book a Grab, and head over to IT Park.
You’re not just going out for dinner—you’re joining one of Cebu’s liveliest weekend traditions.

And who knows? Your favorite food stall might become a weekly habit—or the first memory you’ll tell friends about when you return home.

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