DOT: Sharyn’s Kansi nod a validation of NegOcc’s rich culinary tourism

Sharyn’s Cansi House owner Delia Yanguer poses with a bowl of the popular dish prepared with the local souring agent Batuan. PHOTO BY ERWIN P. NICAVERA, GMA News

The Department of Tourism (DOT) in Western Visayas said the inclusion of Sharyn’s Kansi Beef Soup in the Top 50 “street food masters” in the world is a validation of the rich culinary tourism of the province of Negros Occidental, particularly Bacolod City.

The World Street Food Congress (WSFC), during a five-day event held in Manila, announced that five eateries from the country were included in the Top 50 World Street Food Masters list. They were chosen by a panel of industry experts.

Of which, Sharyn’s Cansi House located along Narra Avenue in Barangay Villamonte, Bacolod City, serving soup with beef chunks soured by locally sourced Batuan, placed 32nd among the 50 top eateries in the world.

The WSFC also recognized Negros-style lechon of the General’s Lechon in Manila as top seven.

DOT-Western Visayas Regional Administrative Officer Artemio Ticar, designated tourism area development head for Negros Occidental, said the recognition will further boost the local tourism industry by inviting more tourists especially “foodies” to visit the province and experience its delectable cuisines.

Ticar said the citation is hoped to encourage other establishments in the region, including Negros Occidental, to be more competitive through product innovation.

“This is a proof that Negrenses and Bacoleños are really capable of producing world-class products,” he said, stressing that food is considered as one of the three pillars of the tourism industry, along with people and destinations.

Prior to the congress which ended last June 4, representatives of WSFC led by its founder K.F. Seetoh conducted a “food exploration” in the province in March, particulalry in the cities of Bacolod, Talisay, Silay and Victorias as well as Manapla town.

Among the establishments they visited was Sharyn’s Kansi Beef Soup.

Its owner Delia Yanguer said their eatery has been serving customers, including foreign and local tourists as well as balikbayans, since 1985.

The price during that time, with only four tables, was only P10 per serving.

When their business started to boom in the early 1990s, the family began to expand its business.

Named after the youngest child Sharyn, the eatery can now accommodate at least 40 people and sells Kansi at P290 per serving.

“We were surprised by the recognition,” she said, adding that “it is really of great honor to be included in the list of food masters in the world.”

Like any other beef soup in the city, their Kansi uses Batuan as main ingredient. The souring agent is endemic in Negros and some parts of Panay Island.

"The only secret is boiling huge amounts of beef that will provide pure taste to the soup, Yanguer said, adding that "our Kansi is being cooked with love, embodying that naturally lovable character of the Negrenses and Bacoleños."

It is also important to ensure cleanliness to maintain the trust and confidence among their patrons, she added.

Their Kansi business, operating for over three decades now, has helped the family a lot especially in sending her four children to school.

Also, it is currently employing about 10 workers.

“With this recognition, we are more committed to cater to the public providing them the best Kansi experience they won't forget," the owner said. — BAP, GMA News