7 Best Food to Try in Bacolod City
Beyond its reputation as the “City of Smiles,” Bacolod is also rich in history and charm. The city is home to landmarks like The Ruins and the San Sebastian Cathedral. It’s the heart of Negros Occidental’s sugar industry as well, with deep roots in sugarcane production that continue to shape its economy and culture.
But if there's one more thing that sets this city apart, it’s the incredibly diverse food culture, which ranges from traditional Western Visayas dishes to modern culinary innovations. To truly experience the essence of Bacolod, sampling its authentic dishes and desserts is a must.
In this blog post, we'll take you through the city’s culinary scene. We'll list the best food in Bacolod to get a taste of its vibrant culture and flavors.
7 Best Local Dishes to Try in Bacolod
From savory to sweet, Bacolod's famous food will leave you craving more. Here are some dishes worth trying out.
1. Chicken Inasal
Bacolod's iconic chicken inasal is a must-try for any traveler. Marinated in local spices like calamansi, lemongrass, and garlic, this grilled chicken dish delivers a uniquely flavorful kick that captures the essence of Bacolod’s culinary heritage.
It's then typically served with garlic rice and dipping sauces, such as vinegar, soy sauce, and chili. You can try a satisfying serving of chicken inasal at Masskara Chicken in B.S. Aquino Drive or Nena's Rose Inasal in Hernaez Street.
2. Kansi
Kansi is Bacolod's answer to comfort food. Imagine the tangy flavors of sinigang combined with the savory richness of bulalo. What sets this dish apart is the use of the native batwan fruit, which gives the soup its distinctive sour taste. If you want the best, head to Sharyn's Cansi House, where this hearty dish will warm your soul.
3. K.B.L.
K.B.L. stands for kadyos (Congo peas), baboy (pork), and langka (jackfruit)—a trio of ingredients that make up this beloved Bacolod dish. Together, they create a flavorful, hearty soup that locals enjoy on rainy days.
For the best K.B.L., visit Sandok Comfort Food on Narra Avenue or Chicken House on Lacson Street.
4. Napoleones
After indulging in some of Bacolod's best food, you can cap your meal with napoleones: a sweet, flaky pastry filled with creamy custard and topped with glazed sugar. Its delicate layers create a pleasant crunch with each bite.
Locals rave about Leones Napoleones and Pendy's for the best napoleones in town. If you're in a rush, don't worry—you can grab a box of napoleones from Merzci at the airport. The dessert is an excellent pasalubong (souvenir) to bring home and pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee.
Source: Merczi
5. Half-moon cake
Bacolod's take on Brazo de Mercedes is a half-moon cake—a soft, spongey dessert topped with creamy custard.
If you're looking for variation, some places also fill it with ube (purple yam) or monggo (mung bean) for a more diverse selection. Its light and fluffy interior makes it a great afternoon snack to pair with your favorite kapeng barako or tea.
You can grab some to go from Pendy's on Lacson Street to enjoy this Bacolod favorite and grab some as pasalubong before your trip ends.
6. Barquillos
Barquillos are thin, rolled wafers perfect for nibbling or, as many Filipinos enjoy it, with ice cream. They come in various flavors like ube, pandan (screwpine), and strawberry. You can find the best barquillos at Quan Delicacies or popular stores like BongBong's and Merczi. Grab a pack or two to snack on during your journey home!
7. Piaya
Piaya is a delicious, flat pastry filled with sweet, syrupy fillings like muscovado sugar and sometimes flavored with ube or mango. It's a beloved treat from the Visayas, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
You can find the best piaya at well-known shops like BongBong's or Merzci, where they bake each piece to perfection.
How to Get Around Bacolod?
You may wonder: how exactly will I be able to try all those famous foods in Bacolod? Here are some practical tips to find your way.
Stay at Go Hotels Bacolod for convenient travel
If you're traveling within a budget, Go Hotels Bacolod is the best place to stay in the city. This hotel is just a short ride from Bacolod's top food spots and tourist attractions, including Lacson Street, The Ruins, and San Sebastian Cathedral.
Whether you're a backpacker or a traveling worker, you'll appreciate the convenience and comfort this hotel offers at affordable rates. Plus, staying here means you can easily hop between destinations without wasting time.
Use Grab services, local jeepneys, and tricycles
Getting around Bacolod is easy with a variety of transportation options. For quick and hassle-free rides, consider using Grab services, which are widely available in the city and ideal for visitors who value convenience.
Alternatively, you can opt for local jeepneys and tricycles, which are some of the quickest and most affordable ways to explore Bacolod. Jeepneys follow fixed routes across the city, with common ones passing by Lacson Street, where you'll find many food hubs. For short trips to nearby destinations, you can easily catch a tricycle. Just ask your driver for directions, and you'll be on your way.
Ask locals
Who better to guide you through Bacolod's food culture than the locals? Bacolodnons are hospitable, so they're happy to share their favorite food spots or the best ways to get around. You can chat with someone at a cafe or while riding a jeepney to discover hidden gems that aren't in the travel guidebooks.
Savor the Flavors of Bacolod
Bacolod's vibrant food scene offers a delightful journey for every traveler, from its famous chicken inasal to the sweet, flaky goodness of napoleones. As you explore the city, you'll discover not just the taste but also the culture behind these iconic dishes.
To make the most of your culinary adventure, stay at Go Hotels Bacolod, an affordable hotel in Bacolod City. With its prime location, you can easily access the area's top food destinations. Check out our promos and packages and get the best hotel rates in the city!
Contact us today for more information.
