Bacolod City Western Visayas, Philippines Travel Guide
Bacolod's culinary identity links to the sugar industry, with muscovado sugar influencing many dishes. Chinese-Filipino traditions also shape local flavors.
Key ingredients include chicken, pork, plus fresh fish. Common flavorings are sugar, vinegar, calamansi, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and annatto oil, yielding a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy tastes.
Bacolod cuisine has core dishes, with variations in preparation and preferred ingredients among eateries. Chicken Inasal, the most well-known dish, features several local interpretations.
Generally from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM.
Lunch, the main midday meal, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Dinner, the evening meal, usually from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Meriendas (snacks) are enjoyed throughout the afternoon.
Bacolod's iconic dish of marinated grilled chicken, basted with annatto oil.
Find at: Manokan Country (Aida's, Nena's Rose, Carmen's).
Unleavened flatbread filled with muscovado sugar, best served warm.
Find at: Bongbong's Piaya, Merzci Pasalubong, local bakeries.
Delicate layered puff a pastry containing custard filling and a sugar glaze.
Find at: Pendy's, Roli's, Merzci Pasalubong, Bongbong's Piaya.
A sour and savory beef soup, combining aspects of Bulalo and Sinigang, using batuan fruit.
Find at: Kansi restaurant along Lacson Street, various local eateries.
Refreshing fresh fruit shakes (mango, calamansi, avocado), strong local coffee (often with condensed milk), and San Miguel Beer are widely available.
Barquillos (thin rolled wafer cookies), Half-moon Cookies (crescent-shaped butter cookies with custard topping), and Dulce Gatas (caramelized condensed milk) are beloved treats.
Dedicated fine dining establishments are limited. Upscale hotels like L'Fisher Lodging and Seda Capitol Central offer sophisticated eating experiences within their in-house restaurants.
Numerous mid-range options along Lacson Street and within major malls (SM City Bacolod, Ayala Malls Capitol Central).
For real local tastes at reasonable prices.
A vibrant local market for fresh produce, seafood, and some cooked food stalls.
Authentic local commerce.
SM City Bacolod and Ayala Malls Capitol Central have extensive food courts with a variety of local and international fast food options.
Modern dining choices.
Sushi, ramen, and more.
BBQ, stews, and comfort food.
Pasta, pizza, and classic dishes.
Various international selections.
Direct communication with restaurant the workers are the best resource. Clearly state your dietary needs.
Be polite and patient in your explanations.
For severe allergies, carry a Translation card in Hiligaynon/Filipino explaining your restrictions.
This helps ensure your message is clearly understood.
Specialized tour operators or guesthouses may offer cooking demonstrations of local cuisine upon request.
Local guides can arrange food tours focusing on Bacolod's specialties (Inasal, sweets), providing a tasting journey.
An unique, informal, and authentic Bacolod dining experience, famous for Poultry Inasal.
Visit public markets for fresh produce, seafood, and a variety of cooked food stalls at budget-friendly prices.
During the MassKara Festival in October, a wide array of street food and local delicacies become available at food stalls.
A required stop for those with a pleasant tooth, Calea is famous for its wide selection of cakes and desserts, a Bacolod institution.
Indulge in rich chocolate cakes and other sweet treats.
Experience Bacolod's coffee scene, from traditional strong brews to modern cafes. Often served with condensed milk for a sweet touch.
A perfect complement to local pastries.
Locals often share the best hidden eateries and their personal favorite versions of signature dishes.
The sugar industry significantly shaped Bacolod's cuisine, leading to a rich tradition of sweet and salty or spicy dishes.
Bacolod's dishes, especially Chicken Inasal, are and offer excellent photo opportunities.
Exploring Bacolod's culinary landscape is an adventure. Be open to trying new flavors and dining experiences, from street food stalls to established restaurants. Many eateries welcome inquiries about their dishes.
