Memorable food experience at a gastropub in Cebu

It was like entering a church, except that the ‘sacred’ space was full of chattering, beer guzzling yuppies and busy waiters as the dark, brooding interiors of Irie Gastropubliko was lit not with wavering lights of candles but well appointed lighting and parabolic like lamps eerily hanging from the ceiling.

There were no saintly images but illuminated bottles of beer and alcohol at the bar counter while we were comfortably ensconced at a window side table. Gastropubs offer more than the usual beer and alcohol. It’s a dining destination in itself and with that in mind, I was expecting more from Irie.

I can’t help with admiring the dark interior. It was different from what you typically see in Cebu, tastefully done. It has ample space to go around without bumping into another chair or table. Or if you want a semblance of privacy, the plush and comfortable seats around a table at the inner part provides you that. And then, there’s the parabolic-like lamp, that always catches your attention.

It was like eating steak in a bun. I can taste its beefy goodness as I was downing the Classic Angus handcrafted burger. No, I don’t want to share this one nor can you pry it off from my hand. Stripped of fluff that plagues so many so called gourmet burgers that rely more on the varied tastes of its toppings, this one was simple and unassuming.

The onion rings gives crunch while the slices of gherkins provide a soury-sweet flavor while the cheese provides the salty taste. But its the angus patty that gives this burger real soul. Done medium rare, it was pure beefy joy that I can’t help but savor every bite.

I love burgers. I love Irie’s classic Angus handcrafted burger. The flavor and taste stays with you. It haunts you even if you’re already out in the world or far from the confines of its dark and brooding interior. Just as what I have experienced with the pizza burger of Marco Polo.

READ MORE: Memorable food, al fresco at a luxury hotel in Cebu

Makabungog!!! That’s how I describe the Fat Bastard! It’s a Cebuano term of a gush, a superlative that describes something more than a wow, because this dish is one. Not for the health conscious but one who loves good food. The description is just apt (see the caption above) and it will give you a hint of what to expect.

Korean style fried chicken has been around and this is Irie’s version. Double fried, special sauce and a siding of kimchi. Great tasting for this kind of dish that gives you a kick!

Eli’s cheesecake is heaven. For the curious, it’s actually a New York cheesecake with the crust/base separated, thus, deconstructed. But what I do love about this one is the velvety texture of the cheese cake. It sensually plays with your tongue, wickedly teases it that it becomes another memorable food experience. Something that will make you look forward to again in another visit.

Should you eat at Irie? Is that even a question? The food is great, memorable at a price that is surprisingly affordable. And whenever a friend from Manila asks me where to dine, I always say, check out Irie in IT Park.

Irie Gastropubliko
G/F Skyrise 4 Building, W Geonzon St
Cebu City, 6000
https://www.facebook.com/Irie.Gastropubliko