Diplahan Lechon: From Zamboanga to Manila

Diplahan Lechon is a new home based roaster that is aiming to introduce their own version of this party favorite to the Manila food scene. Diplahan is a little town in Zamboanga where two families lord it over the roasted pig business. It is one of these families who taught the guys from Diplahan Lechon the ins and outs.

I was not really a fan of lechon, having only tasted the giant ones from Manila that you really need to dip in sauce to add flavor. Then my wife introduced me to the wonders of provincial lechon, and I’ve been hooked since. When I got a cryptic email asking if I wanted to try some lechon, am I crazy to answer anything but YES.

Irene and I together with our foodie friends got a little preview of the Diplahan lechon. The lechon tasting was held in their office since their commissary was not really meant to hold something like that.

Other lechons I’ve had:

The lechon was roasted on site so the skin was crispy and the meat tender and flavorful. The taste was very similar to the ones from Davao but the flavor is just less intense. Looking at the lechon, I was thinking it was more likely a medium sized one, weighing it at around 16 kilos or so. With a pig this size usually there’s lots of fat but that was far from it, this was the leanest lechon Irene and I have ever had. Trust me, we’ve had quite a number over the years.

Every order of lechon comes with a bottle of their special blend vinegar, but if you ask me it’s hardly needed.

I give Diplahan lechon two thumbs up, its one of the best lechons I’ve ever had. Planning a party or just want to indulge, then Diplahan Lechon should be on your speed dial. I heard they also plan to join Mezza Norte in the near future selling lechon by the kilo.

Prices: