By JEN BAYLON
The famous chicken inasal, hailing from Bacolod City, has long been considered a crown jewel of Filipino cuisine.
Now, the world has taken notice.
In October 2024, TasteAtlas, a renowned global guide to traditional dishes and authentic restaurants, named Bacolod’s chicken inasal the No. 1 Filipino dish, earning an impressive 4.5-star rating.
TasteAtlas also ranked the dish, locally known as “inasal nga manok,” in 40th place globally with a 4.1-star rating, acknowledging its place not only in the hearts of Filipinos, but also as a beloved dish worldwide, particularly in the United States.
The announcement couldn’t have come at a better time, coinciding with the celebration of the vibrant 45th MassKara Festival, further solidifying Bacolod’s place in the culinary spotlight.
Recognized for its distinctive flavor and unique preparation, chicken inasal is more than just a grilled dish — it’s a cultural experience.
Originating in Bacolod and spreading across the Visayas, this dish features chicken cuts marinated in a blend of vinegar, lemongrass, garlic, ginger, and other spices.
The grilling process is what makes it exceptional.
The chicken is basted with atsuete-infused oil, which imparts a striking golden color and a mildly peppery flavor.
This smoky, savory dish is best enjoyed with annatto-flavored garlic rice and spiced vinegar, a combination that has won over both local and international palates.
Bacolod’s chicken inasal shares the spotlight with other Filipino classics on the Top 100 list, with lechon taking second place and leche flan ranking third.
The inclusion of other favorites like bulalo, lumpia shanghai and sinigang na baboy further showcases the diversity and richness of Filipino cuisine.
In addition to its international acclaim, chicken inasal holds deep cultural significance for Bacolod.
In 2022, City Ordinance No. 1012 was passed, officially declaring chicken inasal as a cultural property of Bacolod.
This legal recognition affirms its role as not just a meal but a symbol of the city’s heritage and pride.
To celebrate this culinary treasure, the Bacolod City Tourism Office has also featured chicken inasal in its latest food tourism booklet, “Kaon Ta!” (Let’s Eat!).
The booklet, aimed at guiding tourists through Bacolod’s food scene, highlights the dish alongside other local delicacies, encouraging visitors to fully immerse themselves in the city’s gastronomic culture.
Whether you’re savoring it at Bacolod’s Manokan Country, local eateries or enjoying it as a favorite meal abroad, chicken inasal is a testament to the enduring appeal of Filipino flavors.
It’s more than just a dish — it’s an emblem of Bacolod’s rich culture, earning global recognition one bite at a time!/JB, WDJ