A Lazy Day Turned Culinary Adventure in Panglao, Bohol
As I sit to write this, it’s my 6th day soaking up the sun and culture in Panglao, Bohol. Today, unlike the adventurous days before, my story unfolds with a slightly different pace, courtesy of some sore legs from yesterday’s biking escapades. Here’s a tale of how my quest for brunch turned into a full-blown culinary journey.
A Change of Plans
Waking up a bit later than usual, with the sun already high and bright, my stomach was in the mood for something different. The craving? Korean food. Yes, amidst the beautiful island of Panglao, my taste buds yearned for the savory delights of Samgyeopsal, a Korean barbecue.
The Quest for Brunch
Venturing out, I made my way to Lower Tawala, known for its array of restaurants. The first stop on my list was WTF Wat The Fun Korean BBQ and Grill. The name alone piqued my curiosity, hinting at a fun dining experience. The place did look inviting, with an offer of unlimited pork and beef for Php 525 (about $10). But, here’s the kicker, their policy required ordering at least two sets. Being a solo traveler, that meant paying double. So, with a light heart and a lighter wallet, I decided to save this experience for another day.
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Not one to be easily deterred, my feet then led me to a Japanese restaurant named Sushihan. The promise of sushi was too good to pass up. This place, cozy and intimate with just a few tables, felt like a hidden gem. Their specialty, sushi, was priced at Php 315 ($6) for six pieces. I opted for the Philadelphia roll, a delightful mix of salmon, cream cheese, mango, and cucumber. Avoiding the tuna (the canned suspicion lingered), I dove into what can only be described as a piece of culinary heaven. The sushi was so good that the usually indispensable soy sauce became an afterthought.
Dinner Dilemma and Filipino Comfort Food
The afternoon saw me back on my quest for Korean BBQ. Across from Sushihan, Sik Gaek caught my eye, another Korean style grill BBQ restaurant with the same “two sets minimum” policy. The challenges of solo travel, indeed. As the day mellowed into early afternoon, my steps eventually led me to Gerry’s Grill in Alona Square. A household name for Filipino cuisine, this place is our safe haven when decision fatigue hits. Their sisig, a sizzling plate of fried fatty pork bits with chicharron and a runny egg, was the comfort food I didn’t know I needed.
A Sweet Ending
The day wouldn’t be complete without a sweet treat. Halo Mango was my next stop, famous for its mango-flavored soft-serve ice cream. Priced at Php 180 ($3.5), it’s a hit, especially among Koreans. The bustling crowd, mostly Koreans during peak hours, attested to its popularity. With a cone in hand, I strolled back to the inn, content and ready to rest.
On the way back, a sight caught my eye, Paeng’s roasted chicken. A local recommendation for those craving something savory and roasted along Lower Tawala. Maybe I’ll try it tomorrow.
Reflecting on my day, what started as a lazy attempt to feed a brunch craving turned into a delightful exploration of international cuisines right here in Panglao. From the missed opportunities at Korean BBQs to the unexpected joys of Japanese sushi and the comforting embrace of Filipino dishes, my culinary journey was a testament to the surprises that await when plans go awry. Tomorrow might bring more adventures or perhaps another day of delicious laziness. Either way, Panglao continues to be a treasure trove of experiences, one plate at a time.
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