Big Jel's Restomeat

5R444VX, A. Batobalonos St, Poblacion St, Santa Fe, Cebu, Philippines
+63 923 567 9702
$$$ Restaurant
(333 Reviews)
Price Range ₱200–400

Welcome to Big Jel's Restomeat, a hidden gem nestled along A. Batobalonos Street in Santa Fe, Cebu, that's sure to charm both locals and visitors alike. This delightful restaurant highlights the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and hearty local dishes, creating an inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for a delightful meal after a day of exploring Bantayan Island.

As you step into Big Jel's, you’re welcomed by a warm and friendly ambiance, reminiscent of a cozy home where the aroma of delicious dishes fills the air. The restaurant’s interior is clean and well-maintained, offering a welcoming haven, even during the occasional brownout, as noted by one satisfied customer who described it as “a lighthouse in a storm.” It’s that kind of place where you can let your worries melt away as you savor every bite of your meal.

When it comes to the menu, Big Jel’s showcases a tempting array of dishes that celebrate the bounty of the sea. The BamE noodles, a standout choice, are perfectly cooked, providing a delightful combination of flavors that keep diners coming back for more. The Sizzling Squid and baked scallops are crowd favorites, bursting with freshness and expertly seasoned to elevate your dining experience. One guest happily noted their appreciation for the selection of lechon meat and kinilaw, which offered a perfect balance of flavors on their plate, making each visit a savory adventure.

Seafood lovers will be thoroughly impressed with the shrimp served in a sweet and sour sauce—a dish that promises a flavorful journey with each bite. Though some dishes like the pork may not steal the show, the overall seafood offerings create an unforgettable feast that draws raves from patrons. As one reviewer said, "I’d gladly eat there again," emphasizing the inviting service and impressive dining speed, ensuring you have a remarkable experience from the moment you walk in the door.

Whether you're in for a leisurely dinner or a festive celebration, Big Jel’s Restomeat caters to all culinary cravings, ensuring every meal is memorable. And with the helpful recommendations from locals like Kuya Lando, who insists that you “diri mo mokaon, lami gyud ni,” you can trust that you’re in for a picturesque dining adventure. So, whether you're planning a family feast or a casual dinner with friends, make Big Jel's Restomeat your next stop for an authentic taste of Cebu's vibrant culinary scene. Reach them at +63 923 567 9702 to book your table today!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Has all you can eat
Serves beer
Serves coffee
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Openings Hours

Monday

6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Tuesday

6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Wednesday

6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Thursday

6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Friday

6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Saturday

6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Sunday

6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

333 Reviews
greg mesina

10 Oct 2025

The food is great and many servings. Their Bam-E noodle and Sizzling Squid are delicious.

David

01 Oct 2025

Baked scallops and crab where excellent Shrimp in sweet and sour sauce was good. Pork was fine but not as outstanding as the seafood. Good service speed. Would gladly eat there again.

Kleinberg Fletcher Tabel

30 Sep 2025

Every great island adventure deserves a feast to match — and for us, that was Big Jel’s Restomeat in Bantayan Island. This local gem was a recommendation from our amazing tour guide and tricycle driver, Kuya Lando of Lando’s Land Tour, who insisted, “Diri mo mokaon, lami gyud ni.” And he was absolutely right. Tucked along Batobalonos Street near MJ Square, Big Jel’s is the kind of spot you might overlook — until the first spoonful changes your mind. We ordered pork sinigang, calamares, sizzling squid, and chicken curry — each one cooked to perfection and served in generous portions that made it the perfect post–island-hopping reward. The flavors hit that sweet spot of home-style cooking with local flair — comforting, hearty, and definitely maka-busog! The ambiance? Simple and open-air, perfect for the island vibe. There’s a smoking area at the back, and the space feels roomy enough even when packed with happy diners. What truly stands out is the warm hospitality — every staff member smiles like you’re part of their family. If you’re in Sta. Fe, skip the usual touristy restaurants and follow the locals’ lead — dine at Big Jel’s Restomeat. For us, it was the best meal of our entire Bantayan trip. Proof that when you listen to the locals, you don’t just find food — you find flavor, story, and soul.

Nestor Valente

19 Sep 2025

The selection is small for a buffet but I thoroughly enjoyed each of their offerings. The lechon meat was tasty and not tough. We had at least 4 plates of scallops and I kept coming back to the kinilaw to balance out the flavors. I'd come back again especially if they add to their selections. Don't get too many of their calamari it's a bit too floury in my opinion.

Frank R

23 Aug 2025

Most of the street was dark due to a “brown out”, this place was welcoming like a lighthouse in a storm. Wonderful friendly service (Thank you Christopher!!!) excellent food and fast service in exceptionally clean premises.

Just Carter

08 Jul 2025

Big Jel’s Restomeat, well-prepared dishes at a very reasonable price. The servings are generous, perfect for sharing and satisfying a big appetite. Friendly staff and good ambiance. Great flavours, great value, and a must- try spot for anyone who lives hearty, quality food without breaking the bank.

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