Review: Iskina Cebu

If you are seeking a taste of authentic Iskina Cebu cuisine in Singapore, you may have come across Iskina Cebu. This blog post takes a look at what works at this popular restaurant.

Let’s Start With a Quick Look

Category	Details
Location	73A Ayer Rajah Crescent, Singapore, Singapore 139957
Restaurant Type	Casual Filipino / Grill / Lechon Specialist
Menu Highlights	Lechon (spicy / non-spicy), Inihaw Liempo, Inasal Manok, Sisig, Lechon Roll, Set Meals.
Price Per Pax	$9.50 – $350
Operating Hours	Monday – Saturday 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM Sunday CLOSED
Dress Code	Smart casual
Website	https://iskinacebu.oddle.me/en_SG
Contact Info	+65 9230 8181 treshungrymen@gmail.com

What’s Their Story?

The story of Iskina Cebu began with a man named Christian Calledo, a native of Cebu in the Philippines. Before venturing into the food business, he worked as an insurance agent in Singapore, but soon realised that his true passion lay elsewhere. Determined to bring a taste of his homeland to Singapore, Christian left his corporate job and started experimenting with traditional Cebuano recipes, particularly the art of roasting whole pigs over charcoal to create authentic lechon. With no formal culinary training, he taught himself the process through countless trials and errors, eventually perfecting a recipe that captured the deep, savoury, and aromatic flavours of Cebu. What began as a humble food stall gradually transformed into Iskina Cebu, a beloved name among Filipinos and Singaporeans alike, representing hard work, authenticity, and a heartfelt connection to home.

Christian’s journey is an inspiring story of courage and determination. He often shares how exhausting it was to start from scratch in a foreign country, yet his passion for Cebuano food pushed him through every challenge. For him, Iskina Cebu was not just a business; it was his way of sharing his culture and telling his story through food. Today, the restaurant stands as a symbol of pride for many Filipinos in Singapore, proving that dedication and a love for one’s roots can turn dreams into reality.

Why You’ll Love It Here

One of the most notable aspects of dining at Iskina Cebu is its warm and unpretentious atmosphere. Customers often describe their visits as more than just a meal; it feels like being welcomed into someone’s home. The staff are friendly, approachable, and genuinely eager to make each guest feel comfortable. Many patrons mention that even on busy days, the team maintains a cheerful attitude and makes the effort to chat with customers, offering recommendations and sharing snippets about Cebuano cuisine.

Regular customers praise the lechon’s crispy skin and juicy meat, calling it one of the most authentic versions available in Singapore. Some diners say the food reminds them of celebrations back home, while others enjoy the comforting simplicity of a hearty Filipino meal. Even non-Filipino customers have become loyal fans, appreciating the robust flavours, tender texture, and honest cooking that define every dish. Most agree that the taste and experience make up for it. Whether you visit for the lechon, the grilled pork belly, or simply the sense of community, Iskina Cebu manages to make you feel at home in the heart of Singapore.

What’s on the Menu?

The menu at Iskina Cebu stays true to the restaurant’s Cebuano roots while appealing to a variety of palates. The undisputed star is the lechon, a Cebu-style roasted pork that comes in both spicy and non-spicy versions. Roasted slowly over charcoal until the skin turns golden and crackly, the lechon is tender, juicy, and deeply aromatic from its blend of garlic, lemongrass, and local spices. You can enjoy it on its own, in a set meal with rice, or as part of a combination platter.

For those looking for variety, the Inihaw Liempo (grilled pork belly) is a popular choice, offering a smoky and savoury contrast to the lechon. The Inasal na Manok (grilled chicken) provides a lighter yet equally flavourful option, marinated in vinegar, calamansi, and lemongrass before being grilled to perfection. Sisig, a sizzling dish made of chopped pork seasoned with chilli, vinegar, and onions, delivers a spicy kick for adventurous eaters. There’s also Laing, a vegetable dish made from taro leaves simmered in coconut milk, perfect for balancing out the richness of the meat dishes.

The restaurant also offers combination meals such as the Double Sampler, featuring both lechon and liempo, and the Sizzling Lechon, served on a hot plate with an egg on top for extra indulgence. Prices range from about SGD 9.50 to SGD 12 per person, making it an accessible yet satisfying option for lunch or dinner. While the menu is relatively focused, each dish is carefully prepared, highlighting the bold and comforting flavours of the Philippines.

Our Recommendations

If it’s your first time visiting Iskina Cebu, the lechon is an absolute must-try. The non-spicy version showcases the pure, fragrant flavours of Cebu, while the spicy one offers a gentle heat that enhances the savoury richness of the pork. Arrive early if you can, as the lechon tends to sell out by late afternoon. The Double Sampler is ideal if you’re sharing, as it allows you to enjoy both lechon and grilled pork belly in one meal. The Sizzling Lechon is another standout for those who love texture and a bit of theatre in their meal. The combination of crispy bits, egg, and sizzling sauce is truly satisfying.

For something lighter, go for the Inasal na Manok. The chicken’s tangy marinade balances the heavier dishes perfectly, making it a great choice for those who prefer less fatty options. Pair your meal with Laing or Sisig for added variety, and don’t forget to ask for their homemade vinegar dipping sauce, which brings out the best in every dish. If you plan to visit with friends or family, order a few different plates to share so you can experience the full range of flavours.

Conclusion

Iskina Cebu is more than just a restaurant; it’s a heartfelt representation of Filipino culture and resilience. From Christian Calledo’s inspiring story to the consistently warm hospitality, every part of this establishment reflects dedication and passion. The dishes are rich with authentic Cebuano flavour, the ambience is relaxed and welcoming, and the service is infused with genuine friendliness and the unmistakable taste of home-cooked Filipino food.