Food History of Calle Crisologo, Vigan, Philippines
The food culture of Vigan, especially in Calle Crisologo, is heavily influenced by its historical background, which is a melting pot of Spanish, Chinese, and indigenous Ilocano flavors. The street itself, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is lined with Spanish-style houses that date back to the colonial era. Vigan's cuisine has evolved over centuries, with many traditional recipes being handed down from generation to generation. Certain dishes reflect the adaptation to local ingredients and the Ilocano preference for savory and less spicy flavors.
Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Calle Crisologo, Vigan
- Bagnet (Non-Veg) - A crispy, deep-fried pork belly dish often served with KBL (kamatis, bagoong, and lasona).
- Vigan Empanada (Can be Veg/Non-Veg) - A unique empanada with a filling of green papaya, egg, and Vigan longganisa (pork sausage). Vegetarian options might be available in some eateries.
- Longganisa (Non-Veg) - A local version of Spanish sausage, known for its garlicky and slightly sour taste.
- Pinakbet (Veg) - A traditional vegetable stew flavored with bagoong (fermented fish) which can be made vegetarian without the bagoong.
- Sinanglao (Non-Veg) - An Ilocano sour soup that typically uses beef innards, but pork versions can also be found.
- Igado (Non-Veg) - A pork liver and innards dish cooked with peas, bell peppers, and annatto oil.
- Poqui-poqui (Veg) - A roasted eggplant salad mixed with tomatoes, onions, and eggs.
- Lumpia (Can be Veg/Non-Veg) - Spring rolls that can be filled with vegetables alone or with meat.
- Dinengdeng (Veg) - A vegetable stew with a variety of local vegetables boiled in a fish sauce or bagoong-based broth.
- Ukoy (Non-Veg) - A shrimp and vegetable fritter that is a popular snack or appetizer.
Top Famous Restaurants in Calle Crisologo, Vigan
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Café Leona
Address: Calle Crisologo, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
Famous Food: Vigan Longganisa (Non-Veg) and Pinakbet Pizza (Veg)
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Café Uno
Address: 1 Bonifacio St. Plaza Burgos, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
Famous Food: Bagnet (Non-Veg) and Grilled Vegetables (Veg)
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Kusina Felicitas
Address: 1 Bonifacio St. Plaza Burgos, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
Famous Food: Poqui-poqui (Veg) and Ilocano-style Paella (Can be Veg/Non-Veg)
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Lilong and Lilang Restaurant
Address: Liberation Blvd., Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
Famous Food: Vigan Empanada (Can be Veg/Non-Veg) and Dinengdeng (Veg)
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Hidden Garden’s Lilong and Lilang Restaurant
Address: Brgy. Bulala, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
Famous Food: Pinakbet (Veg) and Ukoy (Non-Veg)