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Restaurants In Bacolod Review
A Journey through Bacolod: Exploring the Culinary Delights in the City of Smiles
Nestled in the heart of the Philippines, Bacolod is not just known for its vibrant Masskara Festival but also for its rich culinary heritage. The City of Smiles boasts a diverse and flavorful food scene that captures the essence of Negrense culture. In this comprehensive review, we will embark on a gastronomic journey through Bacolod, exploring some of its most iconic and hidden gem restaurants that showcase the unique flavors and traditions of the region.
Manokan Country: A Chicken Inasal Haven
No culinary exploration of Bacolod would be complete without indulging in the city's signature dish – Chicken Inasal. And for the best Chicken Inasal experience, one must venture into Manokan Country. This vibrant food hub is a collective of various stalls, each vying for the title of the best Inasal in town.
One standout establishment in Manokan Country is Aida's Chicken. Known for its perfectly grilled and well-marinated chicken, Aida's has become a household name in Bacolod. The ambiance is casual and laid-back, with plastic chairs and tables adding to the overall charm. The aroma of the sizzling chicken, combined with the smoky flavor from the grill, creates an irresistible atmosphere.
The Chicken Inasal at Aida's is a symphony of flavors – the succulent meat, the slightly charred skin, and the distinctive combination of vinegar, calamansi, and soy sauce marinade. Served with a side of sinamak (spiced vinegar) and steaming garlic rice, Aida's Chicken is a testament to Bacolod's culinary prowess.
Sugarlandia Sweets: A Dessert Haven
No culinary journey is complete without satisfying the sweet tooth, and Bacolod, known as the Sugar Capital of the Philippines, has an abundance of delightful desserts to offer. From traditional kakanin (rice cakes) to modern pastries, Sugarlandia's sweet offerings cater to a diverse range of palates.
One standout dessert destination is Calea Pastries and Coffee. Located along Lacson Street, Calea has earned a reputation as Bacolod's premier dessert haven. The inviting aroma of freshly baked treats wafts through the air as patrons step into the charming and cozy establishment.
Calea's display showcases an array of decadent cakes, pies, and pastries, each a work of art in its own right. The Blueberry Cheesecake, with its velvety smooth texture and generous layer of blueberry topping, is a perennial favorite. The Sans Rival, a Filipino dessert made with layers of buttercream, meringue, and chopped nuts, is a symphony of crunch and sweetness.
While Calea takes the spotlight, Felicia's Pastry Shop is another gem in Sugarlandia's culinary crown. Renowned for its Napoleones, a flaky puff pastry filled with custard cream, Felicia's is a testament to Bacolod's love affair with sweet, indulgent treats. The Ube Leche Flan Cake, a fusion of ube (purple yam) cake and leche flan (caramel custard), is a creative twist that showcases the ingenuity of Negrense bakers.
Seafood Extravaganza at 18th Street Pala-Pala
For those craving the bounty of the sea, 18th Street Pala-Pala is a seafood lover's paradise. This open-air seafood market and restaurant allow patrons to choose their seafood fresh from the market and have it prepared to their liking. Located along 18th Street, this culinary haven is a testament to Bacolod's proximity to rich fishing grounds.
The dining experience at 18th Street Pala-Pala is interactive and engaging. Guests can stroll through the market area, inspecting the day's catch – from succulent prawns and crabs to a variety of fish and shellfish. Once the selection is made, diners can choose from a range of cooking styles, from grilling to steaming, to suit their preferences.
One dish that steals the spotlight at 18th Street Pala-Pala is the Butter Garlic Shrimp. The plump and juicy shrimp are drenched in a luscious butter and garlic sauce, creating a heavenly combination of flavors. The seafood is cooked to perfection, retaining its natural sweetness, while the buttery garlic sauce elevates it to a whole new level.
Apart from the Butter Garlic Shrimp, the Grilled Blue Marlin is another must-try. The thick cuts of marlin are expertly grilled, resulting in a smoky char on the outside and a tender, flaky interior. Served with a side of soy sauce and calamansi dip, the Grilled Blue Marlin showcases the simplicity and freshness of Bacolod's seafood.
Bacolod's Culinary Adventure Off the Beaten Path
While the popular establishments offer a glimpse into Bacolod's culinary identity, the city is also home to hidden gems that cater to those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience. These lesser-known eateries showcase the depth and diversity of Bacolod's food scene.
One such hidden gem is Sharyn's Cansi House, located in the quiet neighborhood of Burgos-Lacson. Cansi is a local soup dish made with beef shank and bone marrow, simmered to perfection in a savory and slightly sour broth. Sharyn's Cansi House is known for its delectable rendition of this Negrense specialty.
The ambiance at Sharyn's is unassuming, with simple wooden tables and chairs. The star of the show, however, is the Cansi. The broth is rich and flavorful, with the natural goodness of the beef melding seamlessly with the tanginess of batwan fruit. The meat is fall-off-the-bone tender, a testament to the slow and meticulous cooking process.
For those in search of authentic Negrense home-cooked meals, Enting's Special of Sagay is a hidden gem worth discovering. Located in Barangay Pahanocoy, this unassuming eatery serves a variety of local dishes, each prepared with the love and care reminiscent of a home kitchen.
The Humba, a Visayan-style braised pork belly, is a standout dish at Enting's. The pork is cooked to perfection, with a sweet and savory sauce that complements the tender meat. The serving is generous, and the dish is often accompanied by a side of steamed rice and pickled vegetables.
