Manokan Country Bacolod
Bacolod's iconic open-air food court, famous for its smoky, marinated chicken inasal and fresh seafood. A must-visit culinary landmark.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the buzz without peak crowds.
Manokan Country Bacolod
Best Time
Experience the buzz without peak crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bacolod's iconic open-air food court, famous for its smoky, marinated chicken inasal and fresh seafood. A must-visit culinary landmark.
"The best inasal I've had! Moist and seasoned just right."
📍 Find the SM Location
The original Manokan Country is under renovation. Look for the temporary stalls near SM Bacolod's north parking lot.
🍽️ Don't Sit Near Entrances
Avoid seating near entrances to minimize disturbances from vendors while you eat.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic Chicken Inasal
Various stalls at Manokan Country
Savor the smoky, marinated chicken inasal, a Bacolod specialty. Moist, perfectly seasoned, and served with chicken oil and crispy garlic.
Fresh Oysters
Various stalls at Manokan Country
Enjoy sweet and fresh local oysters, a perfect complement to the grilled chicken. A must-try side dish.
Aida's Chicken
SM Bacolod (temporary location)
One of the most famous stalls, known for its flavorful chicken inasal. Arrive early or be prepared for a wait.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Experience the Iconic Chicken Inasal
Navigating the Temporary Location
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
First timer in Bacolod. Help this newbie tourist.
📍 Find the SM Location
The original Manokan Country is under renovation. Look for the temporary stalls near SM Bacolod's north parking lot.
🍽️ Don't Sit Near Entrances
Avoid seating near entrances to minimize disturbances from vendors while you eat.
🌶️ Ask for Extra Chicken Oil
The chicken oil and crispy garlic are key to the inasal experience. Don't hesitate to ask for more!
💧 Stay Hydrated
It can get warm, especially during peak hours. Ice-cold sodas and water are readily available.
Tips
from all over the internet
📍 Find the SM Location
The original Manokan Country is under renovation. Look for the temporary stalls near SM Bacolod's north parking lot.
🍽️ Don't Sit Near Entrances
Avoid seating near entrances to minimize disturbances from vendors while you eat.
🌶️ Ask for Extra Chicken Oil
The chicken oil and crispy garlic are key to the inasal experience. Don't hesitate to ask for more!
💧 Stay Hydrated
It can get warm, especially during peak hours. Ice-cold sodas and water are readily available.
💰 Cash is King
Most stalls operate on a cash basis, so come prepared with enough money for your meal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Manokan Country is a beloved Bacolod institution, celebrated for its authentic chicken inasal and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors praise the moist, flavorful chicken and fresh oysters, though some note the original site's renovation and the temporary location's busyness. Despite minor inconveniences, it remains a must-visit for a true taste of Bacolod.
"It is highly recommended to visit Manokan Country while you are in Bacolod. The original building is under renovation but there is a space in SM Bacolod near the outside north parking lot. There are several who offer chicken inasal. We tried to order from different stores. We also had a plate of oysters and some local vegetable dish made from bamboo shoots. There are other food items available and most of them are grilled. It's quite nice to eat on one of the available tables in front of your chosen mang inasal store while drinking ice-cold bottle of soda. The area is clean and there are toilets and hand washing station too."
Lia_ph
"Visited their most famous stall, Aida's. Just a tip to not seat near the entrances if you do not want to get disturbed by vendors while eating. The place also gets packed during dinner time."
Cohlina Esguerra
"Best inasal I've had! Well, to be fair I've only had Chicken Bacolod, Mang Inasal and Bacolod Chicken House prior to this visit.
Regardless, their chicken were moist and seasoned just right. Chicken oil and the free crispy garlic is a nice touch. Their oysters, although small, we're sweet and fresh.
Stay away from their Kansi and you'll be okay."
Randy Lopez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The original Manokan Country is currently under renovation. The temporary location is at SM Bacolod, near the outside north parking lot. You can take a taxi or a local jeepney heading towards SM City Bacolod.
The original address is along Lacson Street, Bacolod City. The temporary location is at SM Bacolod, near the north parking lot. Check local listings for the most current information.
Yes, jeepneys and taxis frequently go to SM City Bacolod, where the temporary Manokan Country is located.
Bacolod-Silay International Airport (NEG) is about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive to Bacolod City. From the city center, it's a short ride to SM Bacolod.
Yes, ride-sharing apps like Grab are available in Bacolod and can take you directly to SM Bacolod.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to enter Manokan Country. You only pay for the food you order.
The stalls typically open in the late afternoon and operate until late at night, especially during weekends. It's best to check with specific stalls for exact hours.
Reservations are generally not required as it's a casual dining spot. However, it can get very crowded during peak dinner hours, so arriving early is recommended.
The original building is currently under renovation. A temporary location is set up near SM Bacolod.
No, tickets are not required. You order directly from the stall of your choice.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The absolute must-try is the chicken inasal, marinated and grilled to perfection. Also, don't miss the fresh oysters and other grilled seafood.
The menu primarily features various grilled items, with chicken inasal being the star. You'll also find grilled seafood, pork, and local vegetable dishes.
Aida's Chicken is one of the most popular stalls at Manokan Country. You can find them at the temporary location near SM Bacolod.
Options are limited, but you might find some grilled vegetables or other local dishes that are vegetarian-friendly. It's best to inquire at the stalls.
You can get ice-cold sodas, water, and local beers to complement your meal.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant grilling action, the colorful array of food, and the lively atmosphere of diners enjoying their meals. The smoky grills offer a dramatic backdrop.
Early evening, just as the grills are fired up and the lights begin to glow, offers the best ambiance for photography.
Yes, you can take photos of the food and the stalls. It's a great way to document your culinary experience.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography. However, always be respectful of other diners' privacy.
Focus on close-ups of the sizzling chicken, the vibrant marinades, and the communal dining experience. Wide shots of the entire food court can also be effective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families include arriving earlier in the evening to secure a table and avoid the peak dinner rush. Ordering a variety of grilled items can cater to different preferences. While the focus is on grilled meats, some stalls might offer simple vegetable dishes. Remember to bring cash, as most stalls are cash-only.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize your budget, consider sharing dishes with travel companions. Ordering a whole chicken inasal and splitting it can be more economical. Stick to the local drinks like sodas or water, which are cheaper than imported beverages. The temporary location at SM Bacolod also means you can combine your food trip with some window shopping or other activities at the mall.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Chicken Inasal
Manokan Country is where this tradition thrives. Even with the temporary location, the essence of authentic chicken inasal remains. Visitors often rave about the perfect balance of smoky char and tender meat, making it a standout dish that draws people from all over. It's often served with a side of garlic rice and a dipping sauce of soy sauce, vinegar, and calamansi.
When visiting, don't be afraid to try different stalls. Each has its own subtle variations, and exploring them is part of the fun. The communal dining setup, with tables set up in front of the grills, adds to the unique experience.
Navigating the Temporary Location
While the ambiance might differ slightly from the original open-air setting, the core offerings remain. Popular stalls like Aida's Chicken have relocated, ensuring that the authentic taste of Bacolod's chicken inasal is still accessible. Reviews suggest the area is kept clean, with available toilets and handwashing stations, maintaining a good standard for diners.
Expect the temporary location to be busy, especially during dinner hours. Seating is available, but it's advisable to arrive early or be prepared for a lively, bustling atmosphere. This temporary setup is a testament to the enduring popularity of Manokan Country and its role in Bacolod's food scene.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit