Located in the province of Aklan, Kalibo is a bustling city that serves as the gateway to the famous Boracay Island. While many tourists flock to Boracay for its pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife, Kalibo itself offers a unique blend of culture, history, and cuisine that is worth exploring. One of the best ways to experience the authentic flavor of Kalibo is through its local cuisine, which is a fusion of traditional Filipino dishes with influences from other Asian cultures. In this article, we will take you on a culinary journey through Kalibo, highlighting the top restaurants and eateries that you should try when visiting this charming city.
The Best Restaurants in Kalibo
Kalibo has a wide range of restaurants that cater to different tastes and budgets. From traditional Filipino cuisine to international flavors, there’s something for everyone in this city. Here are some of the best restaurants in Kalibo that you should try:
Traditional Filipino Cuisine
When in Kalibo, you should try the local specialty, inasal (grilled chicken). This popular dish is a staple in many Filipino restaurants, and Kalibo has its own unique twist on this classic dish. Here are some of the top restaurants that serve traditional Filipino cuisine:
- Island Inn Restaurant: This restaurant is located in the heart of Kalibo and serves a wide range of traditional Filipino dishes, including inasal, adobo, and sinigang.
- La Bella Vita: This restaurant offers a fusion of traditional Filipino cuisine with Italian flavors, making it a unique dining experience in Kalibo.
- May’s Restaurant: This family-owned restaurant has been serving traditional Filipino cuisine for over 20 years and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
International Cuisine
Kalibo has a growing expat community, which has led to the opening of several international restaurants in the city. Here are some of the top international restaurants in Kalibo:
- Red Lobster: This popular seafood chain has a branch in Kalibo and serves a wide range of seafood dishes, including lobster, shrimp, and fish.
- McDonald’s: This fast-food chain has several branches in Kalibo and serves a range of burgers, fries, and other international favorites.
- Chowking: This Chinese fast-food chain has a branch in Kalibo and serves a range of Chinese dishes, including noodles, rice bowls, and dumplings.
Cafes and Bakeries
Kalibo has a growing number of cafes and bakeries that serve a range of coffee, pastries, and other sweet treats. Here are some of the top cafes and bakeries in Kalibo:
- The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf: This popular coffee chain has a branch in Kalibo and serves a wide range of coffee drinks, pastries, and sandwiches.
- Yellow Cab Pizza: This popular pizza chain has a branch in Kalibo and serves a range of pizzas, pastries, and other Italian favorites.
- Le Coeur de la Mer: This bakery and cafe serves a range of pastries, cakes, and sandwiches, as well as coffee and other beverages.
Street Food in Kalibo
Street food is a staple in many Filipino cities, and Kalibo is no exception. From grilled chicken to fresh fruit, there’s a wide range of street food options to try in Kalibo. Here are some of the top street food options in Kalibo: (See Also: Where to Eat in Orlando Near Disney? Top Picks)
Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is a popular street food in Kalibo, and you can find vendors selling this dish on almost every corner. Here are some of the top grilled chicken vendors in Kalibo:
- Island Grill: This vendor sells grilled chicken skewers that are marinated in a secret blend of spices and herbs.
- Chicken Charlie: This vendor sells grilled chicken that is cooked to perfection and served with a side of rice and vegetables.
Fresh Fruit
Fresh fruit is a staple in many Filipino cities, and Kalibo is no exception. From mangoes to pineapples, there’s a wide range of fresh fruit options to try in Kalibo. Here are some of the top fresh fruit vendors in Kalibo:
- Mango Madness: This vendor sells fresh mangoes that are grown locally and are sweet and juicy.
- Pineapple Pete: This vendor sells fresh pineapples that are grown locally and are perfect for snacking or adding to salads.
Food Festivals in Kalibo
Kalibo hosts several food festivals throughout the year, which showcase the city’s culinary delights. Here are some of the top food festivals in Kalibo:
Aklan Food Festival
The Aklan Food Festival is one of the top food festivals in Kalibo, which showcases the city’s culinary delights. Here are some of the top dishes to try at the festival:
- Inasal: This popular dish is a staple in many Filipino restaurants, and Kalibo has its own unique twist on this classic dish.
- Adobo: This classic Filipino dish is made with marinated meat or seafood cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic.
- Sinigang: This sour soup is made with tamarind broth and is a popular dish in many Filipino restaurants.
Food Festival Schedule
The Aklan Food Festival is held annually, usually in the month of March. Here are the details of the festival: (See Also: Where to Eat Dinner in Grasmere? Best Local Options)
| Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| March 1-31 | 10am-10pm | Kalibo Public Plaza |
Recap
Kalibo is a city that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and cuisine. From traditional Filipino cuisine to international flavors, there’s something for everyone in this city. Here are the key points to remember:
- The best restaurants in Kalibo serve traditional Filipino cuisine, including inasal, adobo, and sinigang.
- International cuisine is also popular in Kalibo, with restaurants serving seafood, burgers, and other international favorites.
- Street food is a staple in Kalibo, with vendors selling grilled chicken, fresh fruit, and other snacks.
- Kalibo hosts several food festivals throughout the year, which showcase the city’s culinary delights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best inasal in Kalibo?
The best inasal in Kalibo can be found at Island Inn Restaurant, which serves a wide range of traditional Filipino dishes, including inasal, adobo, and sinigang.
What are the top international restaurants in Kalibo?
The top international restaurants in Kalibo include Red Lobster, McDonald’s, and Chowking, which serve a range of seafood, burgers, and Chinese dishes.
Where can I find fresh fruit in Kalibo?
Fresh fruit can be found at Mango Madness and Pineapple Pete, which sell a range of fresh fruit options, including mangoes and pineapples. (See Also: Where to Eat in Burlington Ma? Foodie Finds)
When is the Aklan Food Festival held?
The Aklan Food Festival is held annually, usually in the month of March, at the Kalibo Public Plaza.
What are the top dishes to try at the Aklan Food Festival?
The top dishes to try at the Aklan Food Festival include inasal, adobo, and sinigang, which are all popular Filipino dishes.