Indulge in the Top 25 Bohol Delicacies: A Gastronomic Tour of the Island

Bohol is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, from the Chocolate Hills to its white sandy beaches. But did you know that this island paradise is also a haven for foodies? Here’s a guide to the top 25 Bohol delicacies you need to try. I’ve personally tried almost all of them and some are so addictive that i have trouble budgeting my travel money whenever I visit the province.

1. Kalamay

Origin: Indigenous to Bohol
Best Places: Jagna, Local Markets

Kalamay is a sweet and sticky delicacy made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and brown sugar. It’s often served in coconut shells.

2. Peanut Kisses

Origin: Modern Boholano Innovation
Best Places: Peanut Kisses Factory, Souvenir Shops

Inspired by Bohol’s iconic Chocolate Hills, these peanut-based treats are shaped like little hills and made from high-quality local peanuts.

3. Bohol Bee Farm Ice Cream

Origin: Modern Creation
Best Places: Bohol Bee Farm

This ice cream is not just delicious but also organic, featuring unique flavors like spicy ginger and malunggay.

4. Ube Kinampay

Origin: Indigenous to Bohol
Best Places: Local Markets, Street Vendors

A type of purple yam, Ube Kinampay is often used in making delicious desserts like ice cream and halo-halo.

5. Balicasag Fish

Origin: Native to Balicasag Island
Best Places: Balicasag Island, Diving Resorts

The island is known for its fresh seafood, especially fish caught from its rich waters.

6. Chichaworm

Origin: Modern Creation
Best Places: Local Organic Farms, Souvenir Shops

Made from cultured worms, this unique snack is crispy and nutritious.

7. Dinumugan

Origin: Indigenous to Bohol
Best Places: Anda, Local Eateries

A suman-like rice cake made with coconut milk, sugar, and occasionally flavored with chocolate.

8. Saging con Yelo

Origin: Filipino Tradition
Best Places: Street Vendors, Local Cafes

A chilled dessert made with bananas, crushed ice, and milk, offering sweet relief on hot days.

9. Tocino del Cielo

Origin: Spanish Influence
Best Places: Local Bakeries, Special Occasions

A rich caramel custard dessert with a silky texture, it’s a special treat during Boholano festivities.

10. Linusak

Origin: Indigenous to Bohol
Best Places: Local Markets, Street Vendors

A mashed banana dessert, sweetened with sugar and sometimes flavored with cinnamon.

11. Calamares

Origin: Spanish Influence
Best Places: Alona Beach, Seafood Restaurants

Fried squid rings that are a popular snack or appetizer.

12. Puto Balanghoy

Origin: Indigenous to Bohol
Best Places: Tagbilaran City, Local Markets

Steamed cassava cakes often enjoyed with hot chocolate or tea.

13. Loboc River Crayfish

Origin: Native to Loboc River
Best Places: Loboc River Cruises

Caught from the Loboc River, these crayfish are a rare and delicious local delicacy.

14. Buko Pie

Origin: Filipino Influence
Best Places: Local Bakeries, Roadside Stalls

A coconut-filled pie that perfectly balances sweetness and texture.

15. Tamalis

Origin: Spanish Influence
Best Places: Local Festivals, Street Vendors

Corn masa filled with meats, cheeses, or fruits, and wrapped in corn husks.

16. Humba

Origin: Chinese Influence
Best Places: Local Eateries, Home-cooked

A Boholano version of Adobo, made richer with the addition of fermented black beans.

17. Bibingka

Origin: Filipino Tradition
Best Places: Street Vendors, Local Bakeries

Rice cake made with rice flour and coconut milk, often topped with cheese or salted egg.

18. Tinuom

Origin: Indigenous to Bohol
Best Places: Carmen, Local Carinderias

A dish made with chicken, vegetables, and spices, wrapped in banana leaves and then steamed.

19. Bodbod

Origin: Indigenous to Bohol
Best Places: Tubigon, Local Markets

A form of suman made with glutinous rice and flavored with chocolate or coconut.

20. Broas

Origin: Spanish Influence
Best Places: Local Bakeries, Souvenir Shops

Ladyfinger cookies, perfect for coffee or tea dipping.

21. Leche Flan

Origin: Spanish Influence
Best Places: Local Restaurants, Special Occasions

A creamy caramel custard that’s a staple at Boholano feasts.

22. Sinugba

Origin: Indigenous to Bohol
Best Places: Local Grill Houses, Beach Resorts

Grilled fish or meat, often enjoyed with a side of fresh vegetables.

23. Torta

Origin: Spanish Influence
Best Places: Local Bakeries, Special Occasions

A sponge cake that’s a blend of sweet and fluffy, often made with tuba (coconut wine).

24. Batchoy

Origin: Filipino Influence
Best Places: Tagbilaran City, Local Eateries

A noodle soup loaded with meat and spices, perfect for rainy days.

25. Kinilaw na Isda

Origin: Indigenous to Bohol
Best Places: Local Seafood Markets, Seafront Restaurants

Fish marinated in vinegar, ginger, and chili, making for a tangy appetizer.

Bohol’s culinary scene is a blend of tradition and innovation. When you visit, make sure to try these top 25 delicacies to experience the island’s unique flavors and gastronomic diversity. There are more delicacies not included in this list. Perhaps you can challenge yourself to discover those foods that Bohol should be proud of.