Visit Taboan Market for Dried Fish: Cebu’s Authentic Pasalubong Experience [2025 Guide]

Introduction: Why Taboan Market Is a Must-Visit in Cebu

When you think of Cebu, you might picture white-sand beaches or roasted lechon—but for a truly local experience, nothing beats a visit to Taboan Public Market. This bustling, open-air market in downtown Cebu City is famous for its dried fish, especially danggit, a crispy, salty delicacy that locals love and tourists often take home as a souvenir (pasalubong).

The moment you step into Taboan, you’re hit with the unmistakable scent of dried seafood—a sign that you’ve entered a uniquely Cebuano space. Rows of stalls offer an incredible variety of dried fish, squid, anchovies, and more, all sun-dried and packed with flavor. Whether you’re shopping for gifts or just curious about Filipino food culture, Taboan Market is a sensory experience you won’t forget.

What is Taboan Market?

Taboan Public Market is one of the oldest and most iconic markets in Cebu City. Located in Barangay San Nicolas, just a few minutes from downtown, it’s known throughout the Philippines as the go-to place for buying high-quality dried seafood, especially danggit (dried rabbitfish).

Unlike the modern malls or tourist shopping centers, Taboan offers a truly authentic Cebuano experience. The market is lively, noisy, and packed with locals bargaining for the best price per kilo. The air is thick with the scent of dried fish—something that might shock first-timers, but to Cebuanos, it’s the smell of home.

Here, vendors display their goods in open baskets or large sacks. There’s no fancy packaging, no air conditioning—just pure, traditional commerce. Most sellers are friendly and used to visitors, often offering samples and discounts for bulk buys.

If you’re looking to take home a true taste of Cebu, Taboan is not just a market—it’s a destination.

What Can You Buy at Taboan Market?

While Taboan is best known for its wide selection of dried fish, the market offers much more than just seafood. It’s a one-stop pasalubong destination, where both locals and tourists stock up on Cebu’s culinary specialties. Here’s what you’ll find:

Dried Fish (Bulad/Daing)

The star of the show. Sold by weight or pre-packed, dried fish here includes:

• Danggit – the iconic butterfly-cut rabbitfish, best served crispy

• Pusit – dried squid, chewy and savory

• Dilis – anchovies, great for snacking or cooking

• Tuyo – dried herring, bold in flavor

• Espada – dried belt fish, longer cuts with mild taste

Local Delicacies & Snacks

Many stalls also sell other Cebuano treats:

• Dried mangoes – sweet, chewy, and world-famous

• Rosquillos – local cookies from Liloan

• Otap – flaky sugar-coated pastries

• Peanut brittle, banana chips, and other traditional sweets

Condiments & Cooking Ingredients

If you like to cook:

• Dried shrimp, scallops, or squid flakes

• Local vinegar (sukang pinakurat)

• Garlic chips and chili oil

Souvenir Packs

Most stalls now offer ready-to-travel pasalubong packs with vacuum-sealed dried fish, perfect for bringing on flights or giving as gifts.

Taboan is where you shop not just with your wallet—but with all five senses. Want to know which dried fish to try first? Let’s dive into that next.

Types of Dried Fish to Try at Taboan Market

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a dried-fish connoisseur, Taboan Market offers an impressive variety of flavors and textures. Here’s a guide to the most popular types of dried fish you’ll find—and how locals enjoy them:

1. Danggit (Dried Rabbitfish)

• Flavor: Salty, slightly fishy, rich in umami

• Texture: Crispy when fried, especially the skin

• How to Eat: Fry until golden, serve with rice, eggs, and vinegar

• Why Try It: The most famous dried fish from Cebu—perfect for beginners

2. Pusit (Dried Squid)

• Flavor: Chewy, salty-sweet with deep seafood notes

• Texture: Can be chewy or crunchy depending on thickness

• How to Eat: Grill or lightly fry; sometimes soaked before cooking

• Why Try It: Great as pulutan (beer snack) or as a savory side dish

3. Dilis (Anchovies)

• Flavor: Intense and salty

• Texture: Thin and crunchy

• How to Eat: Toss into salads or stir-fried with sugar and vinegar (dilis adobo)

• Why Try It: Affordable and versatile—small but packed with flavor

4. Tuyo (Dried Herring)

• Flavor: Bold, strong aroma, full-bodied taste

• Texture: Firm, meaty

• How to Eat: Fry whole and serve with garlic rice and tomatoes

• Why Try It: A Filipino breakfast staple; intense but satisfying

5. Espada (Belt Fish)

• Flavor: Mild and clean

• Texture: Long, ribbon-like strips

• How to Eat: Deep-fried or grilled, served with vinegar

• Why Try It: Less salty than others, great for those new to dried fish

Feeling adventurous? Most vendors let you sample a piece before buying. Up next: how to get to Taboan Market without getting lost—or too smelly!

How to Get to Taboan Market

Taboan Public Market is located in Barangay San Nicolas, Cebu City, about 2 kilometers southwest of the city center. It’s easily accessible by various modes of transportation and makes for a quick cultural side trip during your Cebu visit.

By Taxi or Grab (Recommended for Visitors)

• From Ayala Center Cebu: ~15–20 minutes

• From SM City Cebu: ~20–25 minutes

• Fare: Around ₱100–₱150 depending on traffic

• Tip: Ask your driver to drop you off at “Taboan Market main entrance” for the shortest walk

By Jeepney (For the Adventurous)

• Ride a jeepney bound for “Taboan,” “San Nicolas,” or “Pardo” from Colon Street or Carbon Market

• Ask the driver or fellow passengers to let you know when to get off

• Fare: ₱15–₱20

• Be aware: The area is crowded and busy—watch your belongings

On Foot (If You’re Nearby)

If you’re staying near Downtown Cebu, Colon Street, or Carbon Market, you can walk to Taboan in about 10–15 minutes.
Just follow the strong scent of dried fish—you’ll know you’re close!

Google Maps Pin:

Important: Parking is very limited. If you’re driving, park a few blocks away and walk in. Taboan’s narrow streets are best navigated on foot.

Tips Before You Go to Taboan Market

Taboan Market is a sensory adventure—but it does come with a few… strong impressions. To make your visit enjoyable (and smell-proof), here are some practical tips you should know before stepping in.

1. Prepare for the Smell

Yes, it’s strong—and yes, it will cling to your clothes.
The dried fish aroma is part of the experience, but it can linger long after you leave.

Tip:

• Wear clothes you don’t mind changing after

• Consider wearing a mask if you’re sensitive to smells

️ 2. Bring an Extra Bag

Vendors will usually give you plastic or paper bags, but it’s better to bring your own tote or backpack if you’re buying in bulk. Some stalls also sell pasalubong-ready packs.

3. Don’t Be Afraid to Bargain

Prices are usually fair, but if you’re buying multiple items or kilos, you can politely ask:
“Pwede pa-discount?” (Can I get a discount?)

4. Avoid Wearing Absorbent Fabrics

Skip wool, knitwear, or anything you’ll wear again that day. The smell is persistent—especially on cotton or hoodies.

5. Wash Up or Freshen Up After

There are no public restrooms inside the market, but small stores nearby may offer paid access.
Bring hand sanitizer, cologne, or a change of shirt if you have other plans after.

6. Ask for Vacuum-Sealed Packaging

Many vendors now offer vacuum-packed dried fish, especially danggit and pusit. These are ideal for travel and don’t smell as strongly once sealed.

How to Bring Dried Fish Home or Abroad

Yes, you can bring your Taboan Market treasures home with you—whether you’re flying within the Philippines or heading overseas. But because dried fish can be pungent (and powerful), a little preparation goes a long way.

✈️ 1. For Domestic Flights (Within the Philippines)

• Allowed: Yes, both carry-on and checked luggage

• Tip: Use double plastic bags or vacuum-sealed packaging to avoid scent leakage

• Bonus: Some vendors sell ready-to-fly pasalubong packs, often labeled as “airport safe”

2. For International Flights

• Rules Vary by Country:

  • USA & Canada: Generally allow dried seafood if declared, especially if vacuum-packed

  • Australia & New Zealand: Strict—often prohibited. Check biosecurity laws

  • Middle East & Asia: Some allow it, others don’t (e.g., pork-based items may be banned)

Tip: Always check your destination country’s customs regulations before flying.

3. Request Vacuum-Sealed Packaging

Many stalls in Taboan now offer:

• Vacuum-sealed packs (250g–1kg)

• Labeled packaging with ingredients and dates
  This helps reduce odor, extends shelf life, and avoids problems with airport security.

4. Packing Tips

• Wrap in ziplock bags + plastic + tote

• Keep in a dedicated pouch away from clothes

• Avoid packing in the same bag as important documents or electronics

5. Best Souvenirs to Bring Home

• Danggit (vacuum-packed)

• Pusit (small packs)

• Otap or dried mangoes (lightweight and no smell)
  These make great gifts and are easy to share.

1. Magellan’s Cross

• Distance: ~5 minutes by car / ~15 minutes on foot

• Why Go: A symbol of Cebu’s colonial history, planted in 1521 by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan

• Tip: Located right next to Basilica Minore del Santo Niño—visit both in one stop

Magellan’s Cross and Basilica del Santo Niño: Exploring Cebu’s Oldest Landmarks

⛪ 2. Basilica Minore del Santo Niño

• Distance: Next to Magellan’s Cross

• Why Go: The oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines, and home to the beloved Santo Niño de Cebu

• Experience: Join locals lighting candles or attending mass

️ 3. Fort San Pedro

• Distance: ~10 minutes by car

• Why Go: A well-preserved Spanish-era fort with stone walls, cannons, and small museum

• Good For: History lovers, quiet photos, or a short cultural break

The Ultimate Guide to Fort San Pedro

️ 4. Carbon Market

• Distance: ~5 minutes by car

• Why Go: Cebu’s largest and oldest public market

• What to Buy: Fresh produce, handmade crafts, cheap clothing, local street food

• Tip: Best visited during the day; go with a local or a guide if possible

Carbon Night Market in Cebu: A Must-Visit Cultural Spot (With Caution)

5. Shamrock Pasalubong Center

• Distance: ~10 minutes by car

• Why Go: Pick up otap, rosquillos, dried mangoes, and other Cebu-made snacks

• Bonus: Air-conditioned and smell-free—great place to finish your pasalubong run