Dining & Food

Savor Bacolod’s famous dishes, street food, and local dining spots.

Known as the home of “Chicken Inasal,” Bacolod’s culinary scene is a delicious blend of traditional flavors, innovative twists, and warm hospitality. From the aroma of grilled skewers wafting through its streets to its iconic pastries that satisfy even the sweetest tooth, Bacolod’s food culture is as diverse as it is delightful. Whether you’re sampling its famous street food or dining in one of its charming local restaurants, every bite in Bacolod tells a story of heritage, community, and joy.

Must-Try Bacolod Dishes

No visit to Bacolod is complete without indulging in its signature dishes. The star of the city’s food scene is undoubtedly Chicken Inasal, a flavorful grilled chicken marinated in a mix of calamansi, vinegar, garlic, and spices. Cooked over hot coals, the result is a smoky, juicy, and slightly charred masterpiece that pairs perfectly with rice drenched in savory chicken oil. A bite of this delicacy feels like tasting the soul of Bacolod.

For those with a sweet tooth, Piaya and Napoleones are a must. Piaya, a flaky flatbread filled with muscovado sugar, offers a simple yet satisfying sweetness. Napoleones, on the other hand, is a decadent puff pastry layered with custard and sugar glaze, making it the perfect treat with coffee.

Another dish to savor is Kansi, a comforting soup that combines the sourness of sinigang with the richness of bulalo. The addition of batuan fruit, a local ingredient, gives this dish its distinct tangy flavor. If you’re a fan of hearty broths, this one will quickly win your heart.

Street Food Culture

The streets of Bacolod are alive with the sizzle of grills and the chatter of locals enjoying simple, affordable, and incredibly delicious street food. A visit to Manokan Country is essential, where rows of eateries specialize in chicken inasal served with banana leaves as plates. The no-frills setup only adds to the charm, making it an authentic Bacolod experience.

Beyond inasal, you’ll find an array of street food like isaw (grilled chicken intestines), kwek-kwek (deep-fried quail eggs), and banana cue (caramelized bananas on a stick). These stalls are not just places to eat; they’re where locals and visitors gather, exchange stories, and bond over good food.

Local Restaurants and Dining Destinations

Bacolod’s restaurant scene is a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary dining. One of the city’s most iconic spots is Aboy’s Restaurant, where fresh seafood and local dishes take center stage. Their tangy sinigang and grilled squid are fan favorites.

If you’re looking for something more upscale, 21 Restaurant offers a refined dining experience with its take on Bacolod classics. For a quirky vibe, Calea Pastries and Coffee is the go-to spot for dessert lovers, offering cakes and sweets that are as Instagram-worthy as they are delicious.

Bacolod’s Love for Sweets

Bacolod’s relationship with sugar is deeply rooted in its history as the “Sugar Capital of the Philippines.” This love for sweetness is evident in its pastries and desserts. Apart from piaya and Napoleones, Bacolod is known for barquillos (crispy rolled wafers) and butterscotch squares, a buttery and sugary treat often brought home as pasalubong (souvenirs). Every bakery in Bacolod seems to have its own take on these sweets, and hopping from one to another feels like a delicious adventure.

Food and Festivals

Food takes center stage during Bacolod’s famous MassKara Festival, held every October. Stalls pop up across the city offering everything from grilled meat to local delicacies. The festival’s vibrant energy is matched by the variety of food on display, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Visitors can indulge in festival favorites like lechon (roast pig), batchoy (a savory noodle soup), and even unique creations inspired by the festive mood. During the festival, the streets are transformed into a culinary playground where every dish reflects the city’s love for celebration and community.

Cafés and Coffee Culture

Bacolod’s café culture has flourished in recent years, with charming coffee shops offering the perfect blend of comfort and creativity. Felicia’s Pastry Shop is a must-visit for its freshly brewed coffee and signature desserts. Kuppa Roastery and Café is another favorite, known for its locally sourced beans and warm ambiance. These cafés not only serve as dining destinations but also as cozy spots to unwind and soak in the city’s laid-back vibe.

Farm-to-Table Experiences

In recent years, Bacolod has embraced the farm-to-table movement, with restaurants sourcing fresh ingredients directly from local farmers. Dining establishments like Fresh Start Organic emphasize sustainability while delivering delicious and healthy meals. These initiatives not only promote local agriculture but also allow diners to taste the freshest produce Bacolod has to offer.

Bacolod City is a true culinary destination where every meal tells a story. From the smoky aroma of chicken inasal at Manokan Country to the sweet, buttery taste of Napoleones at a local bakery, the city’s food culture is a celebration of flavor, history, and community. Whether you’re exploring street food, indulging in pastries, or enjoying a meal at a farm-to-table restaurant, Bacolod offers a dining experience that stays with you long after the last bite. Come to Bacolod, and let its food leave you with a smile as big as the city’s heart.