By Shiela Altubar, Anchor, Brigada News FM Cebu
If you’re craving a genuine taste of Cebu, there’s one place that locals and travelers alike will always recommend: Pungko-Pungko sa Fuente.
Just a few steps from the vibrant Fuente Osmeña Circle, this popular street food strip is more than just a dining spot—it’s a cultural experience. Here, food brings people together, conversations flow freely, and traditions are shared one bite at a time.
The term “pungko” comes from the Cebuano word for “to squat,” describing the simple, no-frills way people dine here. Imagine small plastic stools, stainless trays piled high with golden-fried delicacies, and the smell of garlic rice and spicy vinegar wafting through the air. It’s as authentic as street food gets—and that’s exactly what makes it so special.
Why It’s Worth the Bite
There’s a reason people keep coming back. Pungko-Pungko sa Fuente is more than just a place to eat—it’s a snapshot of Cebuano culture, a community of food lovers, and a space that supports small dreams and big flavors.
Affordable Eats, Big Flavors
From ginabot (crispy deep-fried pork intestines) to lumpia (fried spring rolls), buwad (dried fish), and even longganisa (Filipino sausage), the selection is wide, tasty, and perfect for any appetite. Meals are budget-friendly, making this a favorite among students, backpackers, and locals on lunch breaks.
Feel the Vibe
There’s no need for fancy cutlery or air-conditioned rooms here. You’ll dine shoulder to shoulder with friendly strangers who may soon become new friends. The setting is informal, but the experience? Unforgettable. Everyone gathers over food, stories, and laughter. It’s street dining at its most soulful.
Boosting Lives, One Plate at a Time
Every dish tells a story—not just of flavor, but of livelihood. Vendors like Ate Nena, who has been serving at Pungko-Pungko sa Fuente for over a decade, credit the place for helping them raise families, send kids to school, and sustain their way of life.
“Tourists—local or not—are our lifeline,” she shares. “When more people come, more of us earn.”
Supporting this vibrant food scene means supporting local families and micro-entrepreneurs whose lives have been shaped by Cebu’s ever-growing tourism.
How to Get There
Pungko-Pungko sa Fuente is located at 52 A J Llorente Street, right behind Fuente Osmeña Circle and across from Apple Tree Suites. It’s also just a short walk from popular landmarks like Hi-Precision Fuente and Robinsons Fuente.
Opening Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Transportation Options:
- Jeepneys: Hop on a local route that passes through Fuente.
- Taxis & Ride-hailing apps: Grab, Joyride, and more are easily available.
- Habal-habal: For the adventurous, these motorcycle taxis offer quick trips around the city.
- Walking: If you’re staying nearby, stroll over and take in the lively city atmosphere.
Travel Local. Taste Local.
Today’s travelers are no longer just sightseeing—they’re experiencing. And one of the best ways to experience Cebu is through its food. Especially street food, where heritage, hustle, and hospitality all come together.
With domestic tourism on the rise, more Filipinos are rediscovering hidden gems in their own backyard. Cebu’s Pungko-Pungko scene is a perfect example. It’s a quick escape from the usual, a food adventure packed into a few square meters, and a reminder that the best travel stories often start with something as simple as sharing a meal.
Even health experts agree: micro-travel and comfort food can be good for the soul. According to local psychologist Dr. Liza Montecillo, short breaks and familiar flavors “help break routine and boost emotional well-being.”
Preserving Culture Through Food
Sustainability is part of the story, too. Cebu City has been encouraging street vendors to adopt better waste management, use biodegradable packaging, and follow stricter hygiene guidelines. There are even local programs teaching young entrepreneurs how to grow their food businesses responsibly.
As Lourdes Villanueva, a tourism advocate, puts it:
“Sustainability isn’t just about the environment—it’s about preserving culture and creating long-term opportunities.”
Come Hungry. Leave Fulfilled.
So whether you’re a curious traveler, a proud Cebuano, or just someone looking for something masarap and meaningful, Pungko-Pungko sa Fuente is ready for you.
Pack light. Bring your appetite.