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When you hear Bicol, you instantly think it’s a place where almost all people love food that are spicy, laced with coconut milk, or both. While it’s almost true, there’s more to this region than just that. For your first stop, you might want to visit the charming Naga City where cultural attractions like old churches from the Spanish era and the beautiful Mt. Isarog are found.

After you’re done with your adventure in and around the pilgrimage city, it’s time to check out the many food offerings you can devour. From specialty dishes in restaurants to the bustling streets where you can sample a wide variety of eats, food is what makes a trip to Naga City worthwhile. There are plenty of must-try restaurants but in this list, we’re highlighting popular eats and treats in the local food scene that will make your trip even memorable:

Kinalas

It would be a sin if you miss out on Kinalas which is Naga City’s version of mami. It is a bowl of noodles in flavorful broth topped with strips of beef or pork meat, gravy made out of brain, and calamansi on the side. If you prefer something less daring, get the Log-Log instead which is everything you can ask for in a kinalas without the meat.

Puto Bukayo

Other provinces in the Philippines have this too, but Naga’s Puto Bukayo is a great merienda option while you’re there. It is made of rice flour, shredded coconut, and muscovado, steamed for a bit and wrapped in fragrant banana leaves before ready to be eaten.

Toasted Siopao

Most people grew up with the classic siopao that has a fluffy white bun, but Naga City has its very own toasted siopao. It has a beautiful toasted bread that’s thicker and has a different texture compared to the steamed one. Bite into it and get a taste of the juicy meatballs and slices of hard boiled egg!

READ MORE:
Naga City’s Toasted Siopao, a Hometown Pride and Perfect Pasalubong

Halo-Halo with Cheese

We’re certain you’ve never tasted Halo-Halo like this one before. One look, you would notice it’s the usual Filipino dessert with all the works — sweetened saba, langka, ube, leche flan, nata de coco, kaong, sago, leche flan, and evaporated milk. What makes this extra special is the cheese that’s shredded on top, and a unique way they prepare the ice. It’s fluffy, fine, and almost melts in your mouth!

Bicol Express

Some know Bicol Express as the actual dish that’s served with warm rice, but Bicolanos know it as a side dish to fried dishes, grilled fares, and hearty soups. Add as much chilies you like for the ultimate experience!

READ MORE:
This Is How Bicolanos Cook Authentic Bicol Express

Gulay Na Santol

Sure, you’ve already had Bicol Express, but have you tried Gulay na Santol the Bicolano way? Gulay na Santol or Sinantolan as what locals call it is made with grated santol rinds, aromatics, siling haba, gata, and dinailan which is a kind of shrimp paste that has a powerful taste and smell. This goes well with anything grilled or your favorite Filipino soup like Bulalo and Sinigang.

Other side dishes worth checking out: Tinumtuman or Gulay na Lambo, Laing, Tabagwang

Pinangat

Laing is a popular Bicolano side dish, but have you tried Pinangat? This one is a mix of taro leaves, river shrimps, and young coconut simmered in mildly spicy coconut milk wrapped in gabi leaves.

Binutong

If you’re a fan of anything kakanin, Binutong will be a new addition to your favorites. This Bicol delicacy is made with glutinous rice and coconut cream wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed to cook. It may sound simple but the sweet flavor and chewy texture is just delectable! Dust it off with some brown sugar and pair it with your favorite coffee.