Sikwate: The Cebuano Chocolate Drink

CEBU, Philippines - Of the so many things that make up the Cebuano pride, the local cuisine ranks among the front-liners. The Cebuanos have their distinct mark on food – whether their original creations or those they embrace from other cultures. One example would be the local chocolate drink “sikwate.”

Obviously, the name is a transliteration from “chocolate,” pronounced the Spanish way. “Sikwate” is made from roasted cacao seed, pounded to powder consistency. This one is probably not a Cebuano or Filipino original, or maybe it is. Some historians say that cacao is not native to the Philippines, that it was probably brought to the islands by seafaring traders of old, likely during the days of the galleon trade.

But origin theories often only interest the scholars. The rest of the population is only interested in what something does for them – now. And so the “sikwate” is more interesting for its taste. Additonally, true-blooded Cebuanos crave for it for sentimental reasons.

Of course, there’s no question whatsoever about the gustatory value of the “sikwate.” Its rich chocolaty taste always leaves one wanting for more after the first few sips. It has a characteristic sharp bite, especially if prepared the traditional Cebuano way.

As the saying goes: “The taste of the pudding is in the eating.” To enjoy “sikwate” right in the middle of the busy modern city that Cebu has become, one only needs to take a short walk down memory lane, to the city’s Old Parian district. Casa Gorordo Café, right inside the famous Casa Gorordo Museum on Lopez Jaena Street, serves “sikwate” to be shared by a group of friends or work buddies at merienda, or after work or school, the way the hot drink used to be enjoyed in the days of old.

At Casa Gorordo Café, traditional Cebuano delicacies are given a modern twist, in order to adapt to the changing tastes and to the tastes of foreigners that visit the museum. The food and drinks served are made from mostly locally-sourced ingredients. But then again, it’s the taste that matters most – as one customer puts it, “It gives you a feel of the glory days of Old Cebu.”

The ambiance of the Café also makes one experience the laid-back, hassle-free life of Cebu in the past. There, it seems there’s plenty of time, and that one can afford to while away eternity, amid good conversation in the company of friends. Casa Gorordo Café opens from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Tuesdays through Sundays. (FREEMAN)