Our original plan for our third dinner in Puerto Princesa was to dine at the famous Ka Lui Restaurant. Unfortunately, Ka Lui was closed that evening since it does not operate on Sundays due to regular maintenance. Wanting to make the most of our night, we decided to try another well-known restaurant in the city. That brought us to Balinsasayaw Chicken Grill and Restaurant Inc., a dining spot popular among locals and tourists.
Balinsasayaw Chicken Grill and Restaurant Inc. is conveniently located along Rizal Avenue, close to familiar establishments like Shakey’s and Jollibee. Its name comes from the “balinsasayaw,” a native bird of Palawan. This bird is famous for creating its nest using its saliva, which is the primary ingredient in the traditional balinsasayaw soup, also known as bird’s nest soup.
The restaurant is widely known for serving this iconic dish. Visitors often try it to experience a culinary tradition that has been part of Palawan’s identity for centuries. The soup has a reputation for being a delicacy with health benefits, making it a special highlight of the restaurant.
Ambiance and Design
The restaurant has a charming setup that instantly gives guests a sense of provincial life. Its dining concept combines traditional and modern styles. Aside from the main dining hall, there are alfresco cottages designed as nipa huts where guests can dine comfortably. These cottages create a cozy atmosphere, allowing diners to enjoy both privacy and fresh air.
The rustic design, wooden furniture, and use of natural elements reflect Palawan’s character. Eating in these cottages felt like having dinner in a small village, surrounded by the simplicity and warmth of the province.
What We Ordered
For our meal, we chose a seafood platter that was good for four people. The platter included a variety of dishes:
- Grilled squid
- Mixed seafood dish cooked in afritada style
- Chicken inasal
- Ensaladang talong (eggplant salad)
- Lumpia
- Fresh fruits
- Balinsasayaw soup
They served the dishes on a traditional bilao lined with banana leaves, enhancing the local dining experience. The presentation alone was enough to make the meal memorable.
The grilled squid was perfectly tender, while the chicken inasal carried a smoky flavor that stood out. The afritada-style seafood dish was rich and savory, pairing well with the freshness of the lumpia and ensaladang talong. The fruits provided a light and refreshing balance to the heavier dishes. Of course, the highlight was the balinsasayaw soup. It was light yet flavorful, and we appreciated its cultural significance.
We ordered a platter of seafood good for four. The platter has a grilled squid, mixed seafood dish (cooked in afritada style I think), chicken inasal, ensaladang talong, lumpia, a set of fresh fruits and of course the balinsasayaw soup. The food was served in a bilao with banana leaves.
Nearby Coffee Stop (Mang Itoy’s)
After our meal, we noticed Mang Itoy’s Coffee Shop located just across the street. According to our Puerto Princesa city tour guide, Mang Itoy’s is considered Puerto Princesa’s version of Starbucks. It offers a range of coffee drinks in a casual and cozy environment. While we did not stop for coffee that evening, it remains on our list for future visits.
Why Dine at Balinsasayaw Chicken Grill and Restaurant Inc.
Balinsasayaw Chicken Grill and Restaurant Inc. is more than just a restaurant. It is a place where culture and cuisine meet. Visitors can taste the unique balinsasayaw soup, enjoy generous platters, and relax in a traditional Palawan-inspired setting.
Compared to more modern restaurants in the city, Balinsasayaw highlights the province’s roots through both ambiance and food. It offers an authentic experience that feels welcoming and distinct. Families, groups of friends, and even solo travelers will find it a great spot for dinner.
Contact Information
For those planning a visit, here are the details:
Balinsasayaw Chicken Grill and Restaurant Inc.
Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines
Telephone: (048) 434-5804
