I have been longing for an authentic Chicken Inasal in Dubai. Being married to an Ilongga and having made Bacolod my home, I’ve become accustomed to and addicted to the distinct taste of this famous grilled dish. For many years living in Dubai, I couldn’t find one that hit the mark. We even asked friends or family visiting from the Philippines to bring inasal straight from Bacolod just to satisfy our cravings! Then Bacoleños Grill came along, and at last, I found the authentic taste I had been craving for so long.
A Taste of Bacolod in Dubai
We usually order from Bacoleños Grill online after a friend recommended it to us. However, at the time of writing, they weren’t accepting online orders due to their recent reopening. After eagerly waiting for six weeks, we decided to visit the restaurant in person for lunch on a weekday. I had heard that weekends could get packed, with wait times lasting a few hours, but during our visit, there was no queue at all.
The atmosphere at Bacoleños is simple and straightforward. However, the moment we stepped closer to the counter to order, the aroma of grilled chicken filled the air. After just a few minutes of waiting, I finally tasted what has now become my new ‘Jollibee Chicken Joy.
I ordered the Pecho Pack (breast and wing part) for 23 AED, and my wife had the Paa )(Chicken Legs) for 21 AED. Each meal comes with garlic rice, a bowl of Cansi soup, chicken oil, atchara, calamansi, chili, and soy sauce. Bacoleños brings the closest authentic flavors of Bacolod’s Chicken Inasal right to the heart of Dubai. Their inasal is everything you’d expect from a dish born in the City of Smiles—flavorful, smoky, and grilled to perfection. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting reminder of home.
My Other Favorite Dish at Bacoleños Grill: Cansi
While Chicken Inasal is what Bacoleños Grill is best known for, my other favorite dish here has to be the Cansi, priced at just 23 AED. This comforting beef soup, made with tender beef shanks, is made extra special with the addition of Batwan, a souring fruit native to the Visayas region. The rich flavor of the beef, combined with the tangy kick from the Batwan, creates the perfect balance of savory and sour. Whether you’re looking for something that reminds you of home or simply craving a warm, hearty soup, this dish hits the spot every time.
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Where is Bacoleños Grill Located?
Bacoleños Grill is located inside the food court at Reef Mall, making it easily accessible for those in the area. It’s just a short walk from Salahuddin Metro Station, so getting there by public transport is convenient. While the location is fairly ordinary, it can get crowded, especially on weekends. Expect long wait times if you’re visiting during peak hours.
For a more relaxed dining experience, Bacoleños also collaborates with Kalye Sye7e KTV & Grill, located at Lotus Grand Hotel, rooftop, Al Rigga, Deira, Dubai. They are open from 6 PM to 4 AM.
Also Read: My Favourite Foods at Flayva Al Ghurair
Final Thoughts
For anyone in Dubai looking for authentic Chicken Inasal, Bacoleños is a must-visit. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a trip down memory lane for Filipinos, especially those of us who have made Bacolod our home. Bacoleños has brought the taste of Bacolod to Dubai, and for that, I am truly grateful. If you haven’t been yet, make sure to give it a try!
