Beanucot: Oras Pautwas and that Calabasa Curry

In the Bacolod food scene, we don’t talk about hidden gems as much as we should.

I’m also guilty of this omission. I know that I have overlooked the unique and intimate spots that contribute so much to our local food scene and culture.

I am changing this today starting with Beanucot—a gem that feels like you’re visiting a gentleman’s library. By day you can lose yourself in a good book with coffee in hand. By night, you can enjoy a thoughtfully crafted cocktail with ingredients that have been sourced locally.

We visited last night to enjoy their happy hour, fondly labeled as “Oras Pautwas.” From 9 PM to 10 PM, you get a buy-one-get-one deal for cocktails. We tried the Hingabot, made with vodka, locally-sourced dalandan and passion fruit, and almond, and the Hidaet, crafted with gin, black tea, kiwi, melon, and soda.

What’s interesting about this cafe is its dedication to sustainable sourcing methods and the use of local ingredients. Every sip and bite reflects a deep respect for the environment and the community. Run mostly by one passionate individual, the cafe offers a personal touch that’s scarce in the current Bacolod food scene.

When you visit, you’ll be greeted by its inviting simplicity—no air conditioning, with plenty of books on the shelves. The cafe doesn’t focus on mainstream aesthetics but still manages to be Instagrammable while serving good food, good coffee, and good cocktails. However, its real charm lies in its substance and quality.

Our visit’s highlight was the calabasa curry, made with fresh ingredients from local farmers—a standout dish. My husband and I will be coming back to try other dishes.

So, if you’ve ever found yourself asking, “Diin ta makaun kag mangape man?,” I encourage you, don’t overlook the hidden gems. Drop by Beanucot and experience the magic that makes this spot a true treasure.

This post is not sponsored. We visit restaurants uninvited to fully experience their offerings. If you have an interesting hidden gem or story you’d like us to explore, feel free to reach out via email.