Enjoy Authentic Chicken Inasal at Manokan Country Bacolod

Bacolod is dubbed the City of Smiles, and one of the reasons for this is the mouth-watering foods served in this city. Food is something that should not be missed in Manokan Country Bacolod, the dining area that serves the best chicken inasal in the Philippines. This restaurant is found in the vicinity of SM City Bacolod, and this is an ideal place to eat delicious food and get to taste the genuine grilled chicken that is cooked using traditional methods. Whenever someone is planning for a food trip in Bacolod, Manokan Country is a must-visit destination. This place offers a diverse and succulent taste of the food history of Bacolod.

Why Manokan Country Bacolod is a Food Lover’s Paradise

A Brief History of Manokan Country

Manokan Country originated from some stalls that were established to prepare chicken inasal for the inhabitants and tourists. It then developed into one of the most recognized dining establishments in Bacolod, where people from all over the country visit to have their meals. All the restaurants located in this zone are offering grilled chicken meat marinated with spices and prepared with charcoal. Due to the increasing popularity of Manokan Country, Bacolod has become the icon for tourists and locals who wish to savor the food trip in Bacolod. It is its history to reciprocate the feeling that the people of Bacolod have for food and being hospitable to their guests.

Why It’s the Best Place for Chicken Inasal

As the name suggests, this restaurant is more of a ‘Manokan’ or native chicken barbeque than the commercialized fast-food chicken inasal. The secret is in the marinade, where calamansi, garlic, vinegar, and annatto oil are used in marinating the chicken. The meat is barbecued to the recommended standard, and it is tender with a smoky feel due to the grill. Every piece is filled to perfection and served with a combination of sour and sweet and the hint of spiciness, which makes it popular with the locals as well as tourists. The fact that the cooking process is authentic makes every order of chicken inasal have the right taste that is associated with Bacolod.

The Unique Dining Experience at Manokan Country

Indeed, it is quite special to eat at Manokan Country Bacolod. These establishments are relaxed and informal and allow customers to eat their food while being surrounded by the smell of chicken that has been barbecued. It is also advisable to take chicken inasal using your bare hands, as it makes it more enjoyable. This makes the place among the many great eating places in Bacolod due to its plain setting but yummy dishes. For first-timers and those who have been to Bacolod, Manokan Country would not just be a restaurant but a tasty journey of the famous Bacolod food.

What Makes Bacolod’s Chicken Inasal Special?

The Secret Behind the Flavor

The distinct taste of Bacolod’s best chicken inasal comes from its meticulous preparation. The chicken is marinated in a special mix of vinegar, calamansi, soy sauce, and garlic for several hours, ensuring that the flavors seep deep into the meat. Annatto oil, which gives the chicken its golden color, is brushed onto the meat as it grills, adding a rich, smoky taste. Unlike other grilled chicken recipes, Bacolod food trip enthusiasts appreciate the inasal’s balance of acidity, sweetness, and umami flavors, making it an iconic dish that represents the heart of Bacolod’s culinary tradition.

Popular Inasal Variants to Try

At Manokan Country Bacolod, there are different cuts of chicken inasal to choose from, each offering a unique texture and taste. The most popular option is pecho (chicken breast), which is juicy and packed with flavor. Paa (chicken leg and thigh) is another favorite, known for its tender and succulent meat. For adventurous eaters, atay (chicken liver) are must-tries, offering a richer taste. Each variant is marinated and grilled using the same traditional process, ensuring that every bite delivers the signature inasal experience that Bacolod food trip lovers crave.

Best Side Dishes and Condiments

No chicken inasal meal is complete without the right side dishes and condiments. The most common pairing is garlic rice, which enhances the smoky and tangy flavors of the grilled chicken. Atchara, a sweet and tangy pickled papaya, adds a refreshing contrast to the dish. The dipping sauce—a mix of calamansi, soy sauce, and chili—allows diners to customize their flavor experience. Another essential element is chicken oil, which can be drizzled over rice for added richness. These side dishes and condiments contribute to making every meal at Manokan Country Bacolod a truly satisfying culinary experience.

Tips for Enjoying Your Bacolod Food Trip at Manokan Country

Best Time to Visit and What to Expect

To fully enjoy your visit to Manokan Country Bacolod, it’s best to go during non-peak hours, such as late afternoon or early evening. Lunchtime and dinner rushes can result in longer waiting times, especially at the most popular eateries. The atmosphere is lively, with locals and tourists sharing tables and engaging in conversations. Expect a casual, no-frills dining experience, where the focus is on enjoying the food. Since the area is near major city attractions, visiting Manokan Country is a great way to end a day of exploring Bacolod.

How to Order and Eat Like a Local

When ordering at Manokan Country Bacolod, simply choose your preferred chicken cut and specify the quantity. Some stalls offer combo meals with rice and drinks. Eating with your hands (kamayan style) is encouraged, as it enhances the experience. Pouring chicken oil over your rice and dipping your chicken in a mixture of calamansi and soy sauce is a local tradition. Don’t be afraid to try different cuts of inasal and explore unique flavors. Following these simple tips will help you enjoy a truly immersive Bacolod food trip at Manokan Country.

Conclusion

A visit to Manokan Country Bacolod is a must for any food enthusiast looking for the best chicken inasal. This iconic food destination offers an authentic Bacolod food trip experience, where visitors can enjoy the smoky, flavorful, and perfectly grilled inasal in a lively setting. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, the rich flavors, casual dining experience, and cultural significance of Manokan Country make it a place worth visiting. If you want to taste the true essence of Bacolod’s culinary heritage, there’s no better place than Manokan Country.