Convergence of Innovations in Cellular Biology
Michael Richartz Hall, University of San Carlos, Talamban Campus, Cebu City
October 23-24, 2025 (Thur-Fri)
Local Food Guide
House of Lechon
Sample Cebu’s famous lechon at one of the local restaurants offering original lechon de Cebu. Originally sourced from Carcar or Talisay, tourists can save time by visiting the House of Lechon.
Price Range: ₱300 to ₱500 per meal
Must Try Dishes: Special Carcar Lechon, Spicy Lechon, Lechon Sisig, Baked Scallops
Multiple Branches across Cebu
Rico's Lechon
Rico’s Lechon is one of Cebu’s most iconic lechon (roast pig) brands, known for its flavorful and crispy-skinned lechon cooked with a signature blend of herbs and spices. Founded in Cebu, it has gained nationwide recognition for its distinctive "spicy lechon" variant and traditional Cebuano roasting method. Rico’s offers dine-in, takeout, and frozen options, making it a favorite for both locals and tourists.
Price Range: ₱200-450 per plate
Must Try Dishes: Original Lechon, Spicy Lechon, Lechon Sisig, Lechon Paksiw, Bam-i (Cebuano Noodles), Chopsuey
Multiple Branches across Cebu
Salt Citea Private Dining
An intimate fine‑dining experience curated by Chef Pia Oceña, perfect for VIPs, keynote speakers, or small group gatherings within the symposium schedule. Think a tasteful six-course tasting menu in a private space adjacent to USC.
Price Range: Approx. ₱1,500/head (minimum 10 guests)
Must Try Dishes: Fish in Carrot Coat, Aglio e Olio, Beef Bourguignon, Caramel Tiramisu
Pungko Pungko sa Fuente
“Pungko-pungko” is a Cebuano term meaning “to squat,” a reference to the traditional way diners once sat on low stools beside makeshift tables. At Pungko-Pungko sa Fuente, this tradition lives on — with stainless steel tables, low seating, and a generous spread of deep-fried delights you pick by hand. It’s not just a meal — it’s a cultural experience. Locals, students, tourists, and even celebrities stop by for this hands-on, no-frills street-food feast that gives you a true taste of Cebu's urban culinary soul.
Price Range: ₱80–₱120 per meal
Must Try Dishes: Ginabot, Lumpia, Porkchop, Longganisa, Utok (pig brain), Crab Meat BallsPuso
Silogan ni Gian
A favorite of students, shift workers, and locals, this beloved 24/7 "silog" spot has been recognized as Cebu’s Best Silog Located just steps from USC-Talamban across Cuenco Avenue, it serves classic Filipino garlic‑rice‑and‑egg combos (silog meals) in a cheerful, no-frills environment that feels welcoming any time of day.
Price Range: ₱35–₱150 per silog meal
Must Try Dishes: Porksilog, Chickenskinsilog, Sisigsilog, Tapsilog, Tocilog
Multiple Branches across Cebu
Smiley Larsian by the Sea
Smiley Larsian by the Sea is a lively open-air food spot at Il Corso, Cebu’s seaside lifestyle strip along South Road Properties. Known for its grilled Cebuano favorites like baked scallops, tuna panga, and buttered shrimp, the place combines the casual charm of a Larsian-style barbecue joint with a breezy seaside ambiance. With communal tables, affordable meals, and sunset views over the ocean, it’s perfect for laid-back group dinners or a cultural food trip.
Price Range: ₱30–₱400 (grilled/seafood dish) ; ₱100–₱180 (drinks/desserts)
Must Try Dishes: Baked Scallops, Buttered Garlic Shrimp, Tuna Panga (Jaw), Grilled Squid, Chorizo or Hotdog Skewers, Seafood Soup (Spicy), Mango Float, Leche Flan
Pino Talamban
A family-style Filipino restaurant set in a cozy outdoor bamboo‑thatched environment. Ideal for symposium dinners or lunches, offering communal-style “Nigo” food packages perfect for groups.
Price Range: ₱300 per serving to ₱1,800 for group packages
Must Try Dishes: Fiesta Nigo Package (for 4), Seafood Nigo Package (for 4), Sinigang na Hipon
The Pig & Palm
A contemporary, sharing-style restaurant from Michelin-starred Chef Jason and Irha Atherton, blending modern European techniques with Filipino ingredients (notably lechon). The Pig & Palm offers thoughtfully plated small plates, creative mains, and an engaging open-kitchen atmosphere—ideal for foodies and group dining
Price Range: ₱650–₱1,500 (entrée); ₱350–₱450 (cocktails)
Must Try Dishes: Roasted Suckling Pig, Tuna Tataki, Chicken Karaage, Confit of Pork Belly
Pusô Bistro & Bar
Located inside Quest Hotel opposite Ayala, Pusô offers an all-day buffet and a la carte international and Filipino cuisine. Known for its impressive breakfast spreads (bacon, tocino, made-to-order eggs, pancakes) and cozy, market-style buffet ambiance with warm, efficient service
Price Range: ₱850 (breakfast buffet) ; ₱1,100 (Lunch/Dinner buffet)
Must Try Dishes: Breakfast Buffet, Lechon Station, Grill & Filipino Ceviche Station, International Selections
Paradize Restaurant & Bar
A semi-fine‑dining fusion venue in Verve Point Business Center, just a short walk from campus. With an airy, contemporary ambiance, Paradize caters to groups who want a more elevated experience—think Thai starters, Filipino favorites, Italian pastas, and a full cocktail list.
Price Range: ₱180–₱1,299 (entrées); ₱145–₱399 (cocktails and shakes)
Must Try Dishes: Pad Thai, Red Curry (Chicken), Paradize Pork Sisig, Imported Ribeye Thai‑Beef Steak, Mango Sticky Rice, Mango Daiquiri