In the early '80s, a stall with a blue-and-white chicken logo opened just across from Don Bosco in Makati. It was a barbecue chicken stall that originated in Bacolod. I’d never heard of, let alone tasted, this provincial specialty. All I saw was smoke and could smell the aroma of grilling meats. Naturally, I had to try it. It was love at first bite. I learned that this dish was called Bacolod chicken inasal. Marinated and broiled over charcoal, this dish, to me, could put the Philippines on the world culinary map.
The place spread like wildfire, and soon similar restaurants from Bacolod were serving their own versions in Manila. To me, this is the best-tasting barbecue chicken in the world. I’ve tried all those other brands and places, but as they say, first love never dies. Chicken House, to me, is still the best.
Every time I talk to someone from Bacolod, my first question is, “What do you think is the best-tasting inasal?” Many say Aida’s, but most agree with me and say, “Chicken House.”
I’ve tried both. I went to Aida’s in Manukan Country in Bacolod to try this popular version. The chicken is moist because (I believe) it’s broiled from scratch. It’s delicious with garlic rice and chicken oil. Chicken oil is made by simmering the skin until the oil comes out, seasoning it, then adding annatto for color. This chicken oil is a must when eating inasal. Aida’s was very good.
After trying Aida’s, I went to Chicken House and had three paas (quarters), one atay (liver), and one isol (butt). Alongside, I had garlic rice and an ice-cold San Mig Light—a perfect combination. From what I’ve observed, Chicken House’s preparation involves marinating the chicken, grilling it halfway, and finishing the grill to order. Here, the inasal is tastier all the way through. Paired with mashed finger sili, sinamak (Bacolod vinegar) and a touch of soy sauce, it’s heaven. I dream of this combination whenever I leave Bacolod.
There used to be a Bacolod Chicken House across from Makati Cinema Square. It’s no longer there, but I heard they have a branch near Shopwise in Chino Roces, Makati. They call it Chicken House Express.
Living in Katipunan, I drive all the way there to relive the experience: two paas, one atay, one isol, garlic rice, and my side of mashed finger sili, soy sauce, and sinamak. They have chicken oil on the tables too. Everything is grilled fresh to order, and you can’t get it any fresher. The place has no air conditioning, but that doesn’t bother me. I order, wash my hands, and play games on my phone while waiting. When the food arrives, it’s game time. They provide plastic gloves, but I prefer to feel the heat from the grill and tear into the meat with my hands. Sometimes, I don’t even bother with the dipping sauce—a bite of hot chicken, a little garlic rice, and I hum away. It’s heaven in Makati. I’ve been back alone about three times. This is my simple food trip. The chicken is so good, even my dog won’t touch the leftover bones. I wash my hands and leave, thanking the Lord for this gift. This is the same Bacolod Chicken House from Bacolod, same owner.
If we Filipinos want to impress foreign foodies like Zimmerman, Phil, etc., I’d bring them here. Grabe, ang sarap talaga! You have to try it.
I’ll be seeing you there. The place is always packed, but I go at 10 a.m. and find a table. Many times, I end up sitting with strangers—and I love it.
HAPPY EATING!
CHICKEN HOUSE EXPRESS
114 K. Savana Market, Metropolitan Ave., Chino Roces, Makati
Tel. No. (02) 8897 8432