Durian is known in Southeast Asia as 'The King of Fruits'. It has a unique and distinctive odor and has spike-like thorns. Its shape ranges from oblong to round, the color of its husk from green to brown and its flesh from cream to red, depending on the variety.

In Davao City or the Durian Republic or Durianburg, the popular varieties are Arancillo, Puyat, Native, Monthong, Chanee, GD69. Durian is best eaten raw, straight from the husk. Its great when mixed in different pastries and candies and even in dishes. The seeds can also be eaten when boiled, roasted or fried in cooking oil.

A popular Davao drink is Durian Coffee from Blugre Café. July to September are Durian heaven days for fanatics when durian prices drop to just Php20/kilo. Davaoeños and Durian afficionados flock to Durian parks in the city during the season to eat and be merry. During the offseason, durian prices would soar up to Php150/kilo.

DURIAN EATING TIP:

To remove the strong odor from your hands, put a little water on the shell/husk’s chambers, then dip your fingers inside and wash. Fresh Durian fruit is rich in dietary fiber, potassium, Vitamin C and the amino acid tryptophan (also known as known as "nature's sleeping pill"). Some locals even believe that durian is an aphrodisiac based on the warm feeling that one gets after eating the fruit. It's better to try it firsthand. =)