Must-Try Foods In Bantay Bell Tower (Vigan) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Bantay Bell Tower, Vigan

The Bantay Bell Tower, an iconic landmark in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, has stood through centuries of Philippine history. Its vicinity is not only known for its rich historical value but also for the unique and flavorful Ilocano cuisine that has developed in the region. Ilocano dishes are known for their use of fresh, local vegetables, and seafood, owing to the area's agricultural and coastal geography.

Historically, Vigan's cuisine has been influenced by several cultures, including Chinese, Spanish, and native Filipino culinary practices. The Spanish colonization left a mark on the food, as seen in dishes that include longganisa (Philippine sausage) and empanada. The Chinese influence is evident in pancit (noodle dishes) and lumpia (spring rolls). Over time, these influences have melded together to create a distinct taste that is uniquely Ilocano and local to Vigan.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Bantay Bell Tower, Vigan

1. Poqui Poqui (Vegetarian) - A roasted eggplant dish mixed with tomatoes, onions, and eggs.
2. Pinakbet (Vegetarian) - A vegetable stew of bitter gourd, eggplant, okra, and squash, flavored with fermented shrimp paste.
3. Vigan Longganisa (Non-Veg) - A local sausage known for its garlicky and sour flavor, usually served at breakfast.
4. Bagnet (Non-Veg) - Crispy fried pork belly that is often accompanied by KBL (kamatis, bagoong, and lasona or tomatoes, fermented fish paste, and spring onions).
5. Lumpia (Vegetarian/Vegan option available) - Spring rolls that can be filled with vegetables, and sometimes meat, and served with a vinegar dip.
6. Igado (Non-Veg) - A liver and pork dish cooked in a tangy and savory sauce.
7. Empanada (Vegetarian option available) - Pastry filled with meat, vegetables, and sometimes, egg.
8. Sinanglao (Non-Veg) - A sour soup with beef innards and clear broth.
9. Miki (Non-Veg) - A noodle soup with chicken or pork and garnished with green onions and egg.
10. Dinengdeng (Vegetarian) - A vegetable soup dish flavored with grilled or fried fish bagoong (fermented fish paste).

Top Famous Restaurants in Bantay Bell Tower, Vigan

• Café Leona
  Address: 1 Crisologo St, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
  Famous for: Vigan Longganisa (Non-Veg)
• Cafe Uno
  Address: 1 Bonifacio St., Plaza Burgos, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
  Famous for: Pinakbet (Vegetarian)
• Kusina Felicitas
  Address: 1 Bonifacio St., Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
  Famous for: Bagnet (Non-Veg)
• Bistro Amarillo
  Address: Plaridel St, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
  Famous for: Igado (Non-Veg)
• Lilong and Lilang Restaurant
  Address: Hidden Garden, Katipunan St, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
  Famous for: Poqui Poqui (Vegetarian)

Whether you are exploring the historical sites like the Bantay Bell Tower or roaming the cobblestone streets of the old town, the restaurants in Vigan offer a taste of traditional Ilocano dishes that cater to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. Each dish provides a glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of the region.