Bohol The Visayas, Philippines Travel Guide
Philippine cuisine is a fusion of Malay, Chinese, Spanish, and American influences. This blend forms an unique flavor profile. Boholano cuisine emphasizes fresh seafood, pork, and local vegetables. Flavors tend to be savory, salty, sour, and sometimes sweet. It is for the most part less spicy than other Asian cuisines.
Coconut milk, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, onions, ginger, and calamansi (Philippine lime). Various fresh herbs and spices also play a role.
Rice is a staple food, served with almost every meal. It forms the base of the diet.
Bohol is known for its fresh seafood, especially in coastal areas like Panglao. Unique local delicacies include "kalamay" and "peanut kisses".
Fresh raw fish, often tuna, steeped in vinegar, calamansi juice, ginger, onions, and chili. It is a refreshing appetizer, widely available in seafood restaurants.
Considered the national dish of the Philippines. Meat is braised in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, and black peppercorns until tender. You will find it everywhere.
Lechon Kawali is crispy fried pork belly. Lechon Baboy refers to a whole roasted pig, often served for celebrations. These dishes are savory and satisfying, available in local eateries and markets.
Grilled poultry or pig intestines, a popular and adventurous street food.
Balut: A fertilized duck egg with a partially developed embryo. Kwek-Kwek: Quail eggs coated in an orange batter and deep-fried.
Limited in number, but some luxury resorts on Panglao Island feature upscale international and Filipino cuisine.
Abundant in Alona Beach and Tagbilaran. These restaurants serve a mix of Filipino, Asian, and Western cuisines, catering to diverse tastes. You will locate cozy environments and good service.
Carinderias: Local, informal eateries that serve a selection of pre-cooked Filipino dishes. Street Food Stalls: Pervasive in local markets and along busy streets, with quick and inexpensive snacks and dining.
These can be challenging to discover outside of major tourist hubs. Strategies: Search for vegetable-based dishes like "chop suey" or "ginataang gulay".
Many restaurants in Alona Beach now serve vegetarians and vegans due to demand.
This can be challenging due to the prevalence of brown sauce made from fermented soybeans and other wheat-based ingredients. Inform staff clearly about any allergies.
Carry translation cards for dietary restrictions in Cebuano/Filipino. This aids clear communication.
Limited availability. Some restaurants in Tagbilaran might have Halal options. Confirm directly.
Extremely limited, likely not available. Travelers with strict Kosher diets should plan to bring their own food.
Focus on fresh fruits and vegetables from markets. Use caution with prepared foods unless ingredients are confirmed.
Online forums or apps like HappyCow can assist in locating vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants.
A popular experience where you dine on a floating restaurant while cruising along the scenic Loboc River.
It frequently has a buffet lunch and live music or performances.
Has an unique menu featuring edible flowers, organic ingredients from their farm, and homemade sorbet with distinct flavors.
It creates a wholesome and interesting dining experience.
Food often revolves around local harvests or specific religious holidays.
