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Vigan, a charming city in the province of Ilocos Sur, is not only known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and cobblestone streets but also for its mouthwatering cuisine. With a blend of Asian and Spanish influences, Vigan’s culinary scene offers a delightful array of flavors and unique dishes that are worth exploring. In this guide, we will take you on a culinary journey through Vigan, highlighting some must-visit food establishments.
One of the iconic dishes of Vigan is the famous “Vigan Longganisa.” This garlicky and flavorful sausage is best paired with freshly cooked garlic rice and native vinegar. You can find several eateries in Vigan that serve this local specialty, but one highly recommended place is Café Leona. Located in the heart of Calle Crisologo, this charming café offers an extensive menu featuring Vigan Longganisa dishes prepared in various mouthwatering ways.
Another local favorite in Vigan is the “Bagnet.” This crispy deep-fried pork belly is similar to lechon kawali but with a unique twist. The secret to the flavorful bagnet lies in the preparation and spices used. Every bite of this delightful dish is worth savoring. Head over to Café Uno for some of the best bagnet in town. Situated near Plaza Burgos, this restaurant boasts a cozy ambiance and also offers other Vigan specialties like sinanglaw (beef innards soup) and poqui-poqui (grilled eggplant and tomatoes).
For those looking to try traditional Ilocano cuisine, a visit to the Hidden Garden Restaurant is a must. Situated in a lush garden setting, this restaurant serves authentic Ilocano dishes cooked with fresh ingredients straight from their own garden. From pinakbet (vegetable stew) to pakbet Vigan (a twist on pinakbet), their menu offers a wide range of vegetarian and meat options that will delight your taste buds.
If you’re craving seafood, make your way to the popular Empanadaan in Vigan. Empanada is a local delicacy that features a crispy, deep-fried pastry filled with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and egg. Empanadaan offers a variety of fillings to choose from, including longganisa, bagnet, and seafood. Enjoy your empanada with vinegar or a side of Vigan’s famous sukang Iloko (Ilocano vinegar).
To satisfy your sweet tooth, drop by Irene’s Halo-Halo and Pasalubong. Halo-halo, a refreshing dessert made with crushed ice, sweetened fruits, beans, jellies, and ice cream, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Irene’s serves one of the best halo-halo in Vigan, topped with creamy leche flan and ube (purple yam) ice cream. While you’re there, grab some pasalubong (souvenirs) like biscocho (toasted bread) and chichacorn (corn cracklings) to bring home.
Venturing beyond the city, a trip to Bantay is highly recommended to experience authentic Ilocano dining. Bantay is home to the iconic Bantay Church and the equally famous Hidden Garden Baluarte Resto. Here, you can feast on traditional Ilocano dishes while enjoying a breathtaking view of the mountains and the sea.
In conclusion, Vigan, Ilocos Sur is not only a destination for its rich history and beautiful architecture but also for its delectable cuisine. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or an adventurous eater, this city has something to offer to every palate. So, step into the gastronomic world of Vigan, explore its culinary delights, and indulge in the unique flavors this charming city has to offer.
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