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Brian Kennett
Amateur Chef and Boozy Traveling Foodie Extraordinaire
Tagbilaran Restaurants: It's a fast-developing foodie City in the Philippines / 탁빌라란 레스토랑 리뷰: 탁빌라란 최고의 레스토랑
Tagbilaran Restaurants, in the vibrant capital city of Bohol in the Philippines, boasts a diverse and dynamic ever-changing dining scene that reflects the region’s rich cultural heritage, Filipino traditions, and International influence. From traditional Filipino fare to multiple versions of international cuisine, Tagbilaran Restaurants offers a plethora of choices for both locals and tourists.
One of the standout establishments is Smoque Bistro and Bar, run and owned by Chef Raph (say hello from Islifearecipe if you visit). An amazing variety of fusion food including local Filipino Food with International twists and probably the best Steak in Tagbilaran.
Gerarda’s Family Restaurant, is renowned for its authentic Filipino dishes served in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Diners frequently praise the dinakdakan and sisig, highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition. As one satisfied customer noted, “Great experience with the fam.”
For seafood enthusiasts, The Prawn Farm offers a delightful array of fresh catches prepared to perfection. Located within the Island City Mall, it provides a convenient dining option for shoppers and food lovers alike. A reviewer mentioned, “The pork was tasty.”
Another notable venue is Chido Cafe, which combines Filipino and international flavours in a cosy setting. Patrons appreciate the diverse menu and commend the vegetarian options available. One guest remarked, “Best service in the Philippines.”
Tagbilaran Restaurants Reviews Contents
Tagbilaran Restaurants Reviews: Best Restaurants in Tagbilaran / 탁빌라란 레스토랑 리뷰: 탁빌라란 최고의 레스토랑
Exploring the wide landscape of Tagbilaran Restaurants offers such fun and diversity of choice, oh yeah in most cases at $ pricing. It’s a super starting point for your travels to Panglao Island, Bohol, Mabini, Siquijor and other flights (or ferries) of fantasy you have booked in this part of the Philippines.
Smoque Bistro & Bar: Where to eat in Tagbilaran?
Smoque Bistro and Bar is one of the Best Restaurants in Bohol. With Chef Raph at the helm, you can’t go wrong as he promises to treat those taste buds and transport you to his enchanting island of Bohol in the Philippines. His menu is ever-changing, and always with a Specials Board too.
SMOQUE Bistro Bohol is a great place to dine; it’s a fusion of delectable cuisine, laid-back charm, and family vibes + added home-baked amazing cakes that are flying off the shelves. Picture yourself gorging on succulent dishes amidst a chilled-out atmosphere, with live music wafting over your ears that captures the essence of Bohol’s relaxed island lifestyle. Yep, look no further, this is Where to eat in Bohol.
From mouthwatering steak to delightful seafood, and everything in between, SMOQUE Restaurant Bohol promises you a foodie experience like no other on the island, and that has earned rave reviews and accolades since opening.
Jose Tagbilaran
Jose Restaurant in Tagbilaran is more than just a locale to go stuff your face. It’s a literal celebration of Filipino flavours and the warm hospitality that defines the culture. We got hooked the moment we walked in the first time, and we have been back since. It’s intoxicatingly good. PLEASE though Jose Tagbilaran STOCK YOUR BEER FRIDGE!!!
It has a menu dripping with thoughtfully crafted local dishes, in perfect symbiosis with its inviting atmosphere. The restaurant offers an experience that lingers long after the meal is over: we were gassing about it for ages. Hey, they also have free Wifi, cool toonz, they’re pet-friendly, and even have basketball and other sports on their big TV + live music on Saturdays… BOOMSKI!!!
Whether it’s the perfectly executed goat adobo, the vibrant freshness of kinilaw, the iconic sisig, or the indulgent Lomi to kill your hangover, Jose brings a level of care and authenticity that’s hard to find to every single item that leaves that serving hatch. Every dish is prepared with a deep respect for tradition, it reeks of quality and your memories with family.
If you are visiting Bohol, and have some time in Tagbilaran, a meal at Jose Tagbilaran is a must. The restaurant perfectly captures the essence of Filipino dining, where food is more than sustenance, it’s a connection to culture, history, community, and family. Jose Tagbilaran ensures a memorable meal that highlights the best of Tagbilaran and Bohol‘s most wonderful foodie scene. With its combination of delicious food, welcoming service, and a cosy setting, Jose Tagbilaran stands out as a true beauty in the heart of the Philippines.
Chido Cafe
Chido Cafe: Welcome to a cracker of Tagbilaran restaurants nestled in the heart of Tagbilaran City, Bohol. I was rummaging around the internet trying to find somewhere near Tagbilaran for lunch, somewhere different, something new. Bingo! I found it on TripAdvisor as #1 of 82 restaurants in Tagbilaran City. Wow, this must be brand new, never heard of it.
It’s just near the Blood Compact. So, made even more perfect as we’re going that way for a trip to Sikatuna Mirror of the World attraction afterwards (a blog will be coming to ISLIFERECIPE.net soon). Our bus driver was curb-crawling to find KN Plaza, the address for Chido Cafe.
We enter and it is a WOW. I am in love already. It’s the decor, the cool toons, the view, everything, and we haven’t even looked at the Chido Cafe menu yet. I asked how long have they been here, as they must be super new… FOUR YEARS. Seriously, why have we never seen this place before? We’ve visited the Blood Compact and stayed at Ocean Suites a few times, and never knew this oasis was a 2 minute walk away.
Dear me!!! Chido Cafe is absolutely up there with the food Gods as some of the best Tagbilaran Restaurants Bohol. Then, add all the rest of the experience in the mix, and yeah this is easily one of the top 5 restaurants in Tagbilaran, believe me!!!
Gerardas Place
Islifearecipe.net is giving Gerarda’s Place a monster 4.r out of 5. Their consistency is unsurpassed and we’ve been coming here for 15+ years. The only reason for the slight markdown is that the menu has not changed once in those 15+ years, not even a ‘specials’ board.
It is rated high on TripAdvisor for Best Restaurants in Tagbilaran. Rightly so. Gets my vote, and it seemingly gets yours too, as it has garnered a strong reputation among diners, as reflected in numerous positive reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor. With an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 496 reviews, it holds the Travelers’ Choice award, placing it among the top 10% of restaurants listed on the site.
Customers frequently praise the restaurant’s authentic Filipino cuisine and warm ambience. One reviewer noted, “The food is great and the service is pretty good. It’s on a higher end for Filipino food but still affordable.” Another patron highlighted the attentive staff and generous portions, stating, “A family style resto. They have a generous serving of the food. Love their egg drop soup. a must try.”
Gerarda’s Place, Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines. This is such a nice place. You feel welcome. It’s homely. The aromas from the kitchen waft around you. The staff is so good. The food is incredible and the price befits such a bargain for the quality you consume here. It is a MUST do when in Tagbilaran. ENJOY!!!
House of Lechon
The House of Lechon in Tagbilaran City is a must-visit for those seeking authentic Filipino cuisine, particularly the renowned Lechon. Situated conveniently near Island City Mall, this restaurant has become a favourite among locals and tourists alike. The ambience is a harmonious blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, providing a welcoming setting for diners.
The menu features a variety of traditional Filipino dishes, with the lechon being the star attraction. Available in different sizes—small, medium, and large—the lechon is celebrated for its crispy skin and tender meat. Accompanying dishes such as lechon sisig and squid adobo further enhance the dining experience, offering a comprehensive taste of local flavours.
Customer feedback highlights the restaurant’s commitment to quality and service. One patron remarked on the “crispy lechon” and the charming presentation of rice in miniature pots, adding to the overall dining pleasure. While some reviews mention occasional delays during peak hours, the consensus remains that the flavorful dishes and inviting atmosphere make House of Lechon a standout among Tagbilaran restaurants.
The House of Lechon Review
Drunk Skillet Steak & Grill
The Drunk Skillet Steak and Grill Menu: Grilled Favorites with a Local Twist: focuses heavily on grilled meats, hearty fair, and a few fusion dishes thrown in there. The restaurant’s signature dishes revolve around well-seasoned meats cooked on the grill.
For seafood lovers, the grilled tuna is another highlight. The fish is grilled to tender perfection, served with a side of atchara (pickled papaya) and steamed rice. The slight char from the grill adds depth to the dish, while the atchara brings a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the tuna: Wifey loved this. Pork enthusiasts will appreciate the grilled pork belly, which is marinated and cooked to achieve a smoky, flavorful finish. It’s served with traditional sides, and hung on skewers from a frame: uber-cool.
What I will BIG them up for is their pricing. Quite amazing pricing it has to be said. We walked away with a big smile when we paid the bill for 16 pax. Great job on that Drunk Skillet Steak & Grill: SUPER-AFFORDABLE.
The Hideout Food Park
Introducing The Hideout Food Park Tagbilaran: Where Food and Fun Unite as one of the newer restaurants in Panglao. But this is up there when considering where to eat in Bohol.
Do you have a hunger that can only be satisfied by the perfect combination of delicious dishes and a vibrant atmosphere? Look no further than The Hideout Food Park in Tagbilaran City, where food meets a lively entertainment hub.
Located on Mansasa-Dampas Road, The Hideout Food Park stands as one of the first full-scale food parks in the city, offering a tantalizing selection of options to choose from.
From local Filipino favourites to international delights, there’s something to please every palate. Whether you’re a fan of sizzling sisig street food, gourmet burgers, exotic fusion cuisine, or indulgent desserts, this food park has it all.
The lively atmosphere is enhanced by the fact that The Hideout Food Park is also a hub for entertainment and events. From live music performances to themed parties and special celebrations, there’s always something exciting happening here. It’s the perfect place to unwind, relax, and indulge in a little foodie fun. The Hideout Food Park is the ultimate destination for you.
Blue Ocean S Foodpark
Blue Ocean S Food Park in Tagbilaran City offers a vibrant dining experience that is appealing to both locals and more and more tourists: as proven by over 3,000 followers now on Facebook. Located on Graham Avenue, opposite Bohol Tropics Resort (a family favourite of ours for years), this relatively new food park features a huge variety of food stalls serving local dishes such as BBQ lechon, sisig, and rice bowls.
The lively atmosphere is enhanced by nightly live band performances, creating an enjoyable setting for diners. Patrons appreciate the spacious seating arrangements and the wide selection of cold beverages available. The food park operates until midnight, making it a convenient spot for late-night dining.
Blue Ocean S Food Park has fast become a popular destination for those seeking a diverse foodie experience in Tagbilaran. The combination of flavourful local Filipino cuisine, live entertainment, and a welcoming vibe contributes to its reputation as a notable spot among the best Tagbilaran restaurants.
Photo courtesy of Blue Ocean S Food Park Facebook
Payag
Picture this: you’re in Tagbilaran, feeling as hungry as ever and craving a taste of authentic Filipino cuisine. You ask around for recommendations, and suddenly Payag Restaurant comes up. It’s a food haven that will make you dance with joy. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this culinary delight.
From their incredible Chicken Inato, which is so delicious it’ll make you forget your own name, to the quirky and delightful chicken figures adorning every nook and cranny. Payag Restaurant has it all. But that’s just the short answer! So, prepare your appetite and get ready for a mouthwatering adventure!
My favourites of my family are the signature BBQ dish of Chicken Inato, deep-fried things that hold the intestines of a pig together (yep, I’m serious) called Chicharon Bulaklak, BBQ Chicken Liver, and Green Mango Shakes.
No need to book, and make sure you have some cash with you.
How to get to Tagbilaran / 타그빌라란에 가는 방법
Getting to Tagbilaran City is straightforward, with several transportation options available depending on your location. Below are the most common ways to reach this vibrant destination:
By Air: Tagbilaran is served by the Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG), which accommodates flights from major cities like Manila and Cebu, and direct from South Korea and China. Flights are short, typically taking 1 to 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, you can easily find taxis, tricycles, or pre-arranged transfers to take you to your accommodation in Tagbilaran: Grab is also now available in Tagbilaran and Panglao (although a bit patchy sometimes).
By Sea: For those who enjoy a more scenic route, you can travel by sea to the Tagbilaran City Seaport. Regular ferries operate from key ports such as Cebu, Dumaguete, and Manila. Travel times vary, ranging from 1.5 to 4 hours, depending on the distance and type of vessel. Once at the seaport, transportation options like tricycles and taxis are readily available to take you to your chosen destination.
By Land: If you’re already in Bohol or nearby provinces like Mabini or Panglao Island, tricycles, buses and vans provide regular service to Tagbilaran. These routes connect major towns and cities within Bohol. Depending on your starting point, travel times generally range from 1 to 4 hours.
For seamless travel, it’s a good idea to check the schedules and availability of flights, ferries, or land transport options in advance. Factors like weather and travel advisories can impact schedules, so planning ahead is essential: we’ve had a few occasions when the Coast Guard literally stopped all ferry traffic.
