Rediscovering Comfort and Resilience: Itchoy Batchoyan Reopens with Hope

When news broke that Itchoy Batchoyan had reopened its doors, my heart did a little dance of joy. The unassuming eatery nestled in the heart of Cebu City had become a cherished haven for many, offering more than just food; it provided comfort, solace, and a sense of community during the tough times of the pandemic and beyond.

In a city known for its bustling food scene, Itchoy Batchoyan still found a way to stand out. During the pandemic, I never stopped exploring and looking for the best local eats.  One of my most exciting discoveries was this unassuming Batchoyan and Paresan. I remember the first time I walked through its doors, drawn in by the aroma of familiar Filipino comfort foods. Batchoy,  beef pares, Sisig, Crispy Kare-Kare, and Lechon Kawali were just a few of the fantastic creations that awaited those lucky enough to discover this culinary haven.  The eatery back then had a "dirty kitchen" were you can watch how the delicious food are made.

The man behind this hidden gem is none other than Chef Edward Pedong, a seasoned culinary professional with a lifetime of experience cooking in hotels and cruise ships. The story of Itchoy Batchoyan is one of family, dedication, and unwavering commitment. When the pandemic started, the Pedongs started a family karenderia. Chef Edward's wife manned the cash register while their children worked side by side, creating a place where Cebuanos enjoy food that is rarely found in typical karenderias.

But life threw its curveballs, as it tends to do.  Many of us experienced losing loved ones and dear friends during the pandemic and the Itchoy family was not spared. The loss of their matriarch sent ripples of sorrow through the family and really affected the business, leading to temporary closures that sometimes took months. Yet, hope and resilience prevailed. With the support of relatives, friends, and loyal diners, Chef Edward and his family rallied together to resurrect their culinary haven, armed with upgraded kitchen facilities and the same old favorites that patrons had grown to love.

As I recently sat down at Itchoy Batchoyan once more, the flavors of nostalgia and comfort washed over me. The stuffed Bangus and Lechon Pares on my plate were a testament to Chef Edward's skill and passion. Each bite was an intricate blend of flavors, served with a flair that would make any high-end restaurant proud. Dining here felt like sharing a meal with old friends, amidst the warm embrace of familiarity.

It's not just about the food, though. It's about Chef Edward's journey, about a family's determination to keep a dream alive. His advice to never give up and to embrace ownership in the face of adversity carries the weight of experience and triumph. And as they embark on new challenges, opening another restaurant in Carigara, Leyte, the legacy of Itchoy Batchoyan continues to inspire.

As I savor the Beef Pares that played a pivotal role in my journey as a local food blogger during the pandemic, I am reminded of the importance of local gems like Itchoy Batchoyan. Their Pares Batchoy, with its harmonious blend of flavors and textures, is a testament to the creativity and magic that small local eateries are capable of.

Itchoy Batchoyan holds a special place in the hearts of Cebuanos (including me), from hospital workers seeking respite to students seeking nourishment for both body and soul to hungry #kalaminions who travel from far places looking for good food. It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, community support can breathe new life into the things we hold dear.

So, if you find yourself craving the Filipino flavors that transport you to a place of comfort, head over to Itchoy Batchoyan Cebu on C. Rodriguez St., Capitol Site. Their doors are open from 11 am to 8 pm, Monday to Saturday, ready to welcome you with the same warmth that has been their hallmark.

In the end, Itchoy Batchoyan's story is a reminder that amid life's uncertainties, there is always a solution waiting to be discovered. And as we savor every bite of their culinary delights, let's stand by Chef Edward and his family, continuing to support their local food venture that embodies the spirit of Cebu's resilience and community.

This story is an entry to COMCO Mundo’s “UNMASKED: The COMCO Mundo Write to Ignite Season 3”. The initiative aims to pull and collate powerful stories from the Philippine blogging communities. “UNMASKED” aims to explore how each mask is a person brimming with hope and wonders to share with others, as well as why it is important to tell their inspiring journeys in life. The “Write to Ignite” Season 3 is made possible by COMCO Mundo League of Enterprises, with airasia, Babyflo, PHILUSA Corporation, Century Tuna, Licealiz, Lamoiyan Corporation, Rémy Martin, and Uratex Monoblock as brand partners.