Bacolod, located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, is a bustling city with a population of approximately 600,000 people. Known as the "City of Smiles," Bacolod is famous for its colorful MassKara Festival, which is celebrated every October. The city is also renowned for its delicious food and drinks, which are a blend of Spanish, Chinese, and Filipino cuisines.
One of the most popular dishes in Bacolod is chicken inasal, which is a type of grilled chicken marinated in a mixture of vinegar, calamansi juice, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and annatto oil. It is served with a side of sinamak, a spicy vinegar made with chili peppers, garlic, onions, and ginger. Another famous dish is the batchoy, a noodle soup made with pork, liver, and beef broth, topped with pork cracklings, green onions, and garlic.
Seafood is also a staple in Bacolod, with dishes such as kinilaw, which is a type of ceviche made with fresh raw fish, onions, ginger, vinegar, and calamansi juice. Grilled squid is another popular seafood dish, which is stuffed with onions and tomatoes before being grilled to perfection.
For snacks or merienda, Bacolod is known for its piaya, a sweet pastry made with muscovado sugar and filled with sweetened coconut, and the napoleones, a layered puff pastry filled with sweetened cream. Other sweet treats include the caramelized biscocho, a type of toasted bread coated with caramelized sugar, and the guapple pie, a pie made with guava and apple.
Bacolod is also famous for its drinks, including the refreshing calamansi juice, which is made from the local citrus fruit, and the popular Negros coffee, which is a blend of Arabica and Robusta coffee beans grown on the nearby island of Negros. A must-try beverage in Bacolod is the ice-cold bottles of San Miguel Beer, which pairs perfectly with the grilled dishes and seafood.
As for meal times, Bacolodnons generally have breakfast around 6-7 am, followed by lunch at 12 pm, and dinner at around 6-7 pm. Street food vendors and restaurants can be found throughout the city, with some staying open until late in the evening.
Bacolod is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, pubs, and nightclubs catering to those looking to unwind after a long day. The city also has a thriving food scene, with numerous restaurants and eateries offering a wide variety of cuisines.
Bacolod is a city full of flavor and culture, where the locals take pride in their food and drinks. From the delicious grilled chicken inasal to the sweet piaya and refreshing calamansi juice, Bacolod offers a unique culinary experience that should not be missed. Whether you are a foodie or just looking to try something new, Bacolod is the perfect destination for anyone who loves good food and great company.