Traveling to Bacolod, the home of Chicken Inasal, a meal at Manokan Country (near SM Bacolod is a must. Arriving at the place via taxi, Carlos and I found out it was not a restaurant per se, instead its a row of similar inasal purveyors. I picked Nena Beth’s since it was a lot bigger than its neighbors and it had more customers, thinking they must know something we don’t.
We quickly took a seat in the green plastic chairs and tables covered with yellow plastic tablecloths. Scanning the menu, I ordered my usual “pecho” (breast part) while Carlos got the “paa” (leg) and “isol” (chicken ass).
While we were waiting for our orders, another staff came up to ass if we wanted fresh “talaba” (oysters). We scanned the menu looking at the price, it was P35, we were astounded but still a little skeptical. So we got one order for trial just to see how much it was.
The plate of oysters (P35) arrived and we were now officially shocked since it there was about 15 or so semi shucked oysters on the plate. Digging in to a few, we realized what a super good deal it was, so we ordered another plate. I asked for some calamansi to drizzle over the fresh oysters before slurping it into my mouth.
The chicken came after and we were ready for it with the oysters serving as great appetizers. I was surprised at their garlic rice, it seems that chicken oil has been mixed into the chicken then garlic bits are added on top, very different from what we have here.
You may have noticed there are two breast parts on my plate, I had asked the waitress if they had native chicken inasal, was promptly informed they had so ordered an additional one. I used to not believe there was any difference until one time while in Davao, I ordered one of each to taste the difference, and a very big taste difference there was. Since then, I’ve always ordered native chicken at bbq places when available. I gave Carlos a taste and he also agreed it was much better, another convert.
One bite into either version and I could really taste the difference from the ones I’ve had before. The chicken was perfectly marinated and grilled that it was not a wonder when everything was wiped out quickly.
We had so good a meal that the next inasal place we ate at, Bacolod Chicken House, paled in comparison so we just had to go back for more. The native chicken was not available the second time we were there so we made it up by ordering 3 plates of oysters.
If ever you are in Bacolod, don’t miss the chance to eat Chicken Inasal at its best at Manokan Country. Oysters, don’t forget about the super super cheap oysters.
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Wow, Php35 for a plate of oysters? Here in Manila you’d have to pay hundreds of pesos just for a small plate of semi-chucked oysters. I’d be sure to go there if I travel to Bacolod. Thanks!
@Marie,
Loved it. No matter the surroundings, whats important is the food, the cheap prices are a plus also.