The minute I step foot in Bacolod, I was informed that I should try the Chicken Inasal this region is proud of. So, for our first meal in Bacolod, Chicken Inasal it is.

It’s popularity started out a few years back when a group of vendors started selling this dish in the plaza. They are all scattered in the streets that the city had created a place for them which they call “Manukan country” which means “chicken country”. From then on, different establishments sprung up in the city selling Chicken Inasal (Inasal means “cooked in charcoal”). The reason: Bacoleneos (People of Bacolod) loves to eat chicken, that’s it.

We were advised that it is best to eat chicken inasal using our hands, the flavor and taste is better as the locals say, so, together with toyo (soy sauce) and calamansi, you will enjoy it to the very last bite. As they say, “Sarap to the bones!” Just make sure that you wash your hands before reaching for your food, so you could enjoy it even more.

Next stop…. Piaya!

Piaya is one delicacy in Bacolod that is sweet, crunchy in the outside and soft in the inside. It’s a dessert made up of butter, mascovado sugar, flour, water and vegetable oil. We were able to visit the factory where piaya’s was made. Over 50,000 pieces of piaya’s are produced there in a day. With only five process to make piaya: Mixing area, dough making, flatten the dough in the compressor, baking and repacking. It’s that simple. Better to eat piaya with hot coffee or tea, but for some, it is best eaten with cold softdrinks or juice. This is one of the best take home products must have when you come to visit bacolod.

Last stop…. Seafood paradise!

Though eating is only a part of our experience in Bacolod, it is one of the experiences that is hard to forget. Yes, Bacoleneos are fund of eating, and so am I.

We were able to come to this restaurant where all the dishes are prepared home cooked style. From crispy pata, to sinigang na isda, to chili shrimps to baked fresh calamares… a sumptuous meal I might say, that will satisfy one’s appetite to the fullest.  We were able to meet the owner, Mrs. Virgie Co and we came to know that she got her cooking skills from her father.  She prepares meals for her family and guests that eventually lead to establishing a restaurant of her own to cater more satisfying guests and tourists in the region.   Her trade secret, she prepares the meals as if she’s preparing it at home. Though others try to copy her style of cooking, they didn’t succeed.