Most people would always associate the town of Hinigaran with talaba (oyster). However, for those with a sweet tooth, it’s Mila’s Royal Bibingka which they look forward to.
Mila’s Restaurant is one of those establishments in Hinigaran that you may consider a household name. It’s located along the highway, near the plaza, so it’s easy to locate. There are also a lot of travelers who stopover for lunch and to buy pasalubong.
Old photographs with notes about the Church of Mary Magdalene and the Origin of Hinigaran adorn the walls of the restaurant. In a quite pleasant way, it gives you the feeling that the restaurant is also quite old and their food are hometown favorites.
I noticed a few framed magazine features of Mila’s Royal Bibingka hanging on the wall together with a plaque that really made me smile. It says, “Accredited Pee Stop” by the Women in Travel Bacolod City. A little recognition but that means a great deal to a traveler considering the lack of decent restrooms even in our tourist destinations. Unfortunately, I did not get to validate the plaque since somebody was ahead of me and my companions are quite in a hurry.
Mila’s Royal Bibingka costs P16 each and if you buy in a box they charge an additional P7. It’s not your traditional bibingka but it tastes really good and will make a good pasalubong. You have to try their buko pie too. It’s P160 per plate. Namit gid.
Mila’s Royal Bibingka is also available at Hinigaran Pavilion during Panaad Festival. On regular days, it’s only available at Mila’s Restaurant in Hinigaran. But don’t fret. If you don’t like to travel all the way to Hinigaran to buy bibingka, you can call them at 391-7849. For orders above P500, they don’t charge for the fare. Otherwise, you add P40 on top of your order. You will then pick up your order at the dental clinic of Dr. Olaes at Rosario St., Bacolod City.
