Must-Try Foods In Syquia Mansion Museum (Vigan) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Syquia Mansion Museum: A Glimpse into Vigan's Culinary Past

The Syquia Mansion Museum is not only a historical treasure but also a gateway to the rich culinary heritage of Vigan, located in the province of Ilocos Sur, Philippines. Once the residence of the sixth Philippine President Elpidio Quirino, the mansion showcases the opulence of the mestizo elite during the colonial era and gives visitors an insight into the lifestyles of the time, which of course, includes food. Food history in Vigan, where the Syquia Mansion Museum is situated, is deeply influenced by a mix of indigenous Austronesian, Chinese, Spanish, and Mexican culinary traditions. Staples such as rice are commonly paired with rich and hearty flavors, featuring ingredients like vegetables, seafood, and meats other than cow. However, the Ilocanos, the people of the region, are also known for their ingenious use of vegetables and emphasize farm-to-table freshness in their dishes.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Vigan for Tourists

1. Bagnet - A crispy fried pork dish that's non-veg and often paired with rice and a tangy papaya salad called "kbl" (kamatis, bagoong, lasona).
2. Vigan Longganisa - A garlicky and savory local sausage that is non-veg, often served at breakfast with garlic rice and egg.
3. Pinakbet - A mixed vegetable stew seasoned with bagoong (fermented fish or shrimp paste) and usually contains pork, making it non-veg, but often has veg versions.
4. Igado - This is a non-veg dish featuring pork liver and tenderloin in a savory-sour sauce with peas and bell peppers.
5. Empanada - A savory pastry filled with Vigan longganisa, egg, and grated green papaya that is non-veg.
6. Poqui-poqui - A vegetarian dish made from roasted eggplant, tomatoes, and onions.
7. Sinanglao - A flavorful non-veg soup made with different parts of beef, but in Vigan, it's more common to use other meats and innards.
8. Lumpia - Fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables that can be vegetarian and are typically served with a garlic and vinegar-based dip.
9. Miki - Vigan's own version of noodle soup, which can be made non-veg with meat toppings but also offers veg options.
10. Sinigang - A sour soup usually made with tamarind, tomatoes, and various meats like pork or fish (non-veg) but can also be made with just vegetables (veg).

Top Famous Restaurants Near Syquia Mansion Museum

Cafe Leona

Address: Calle Crisologo, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Famous Food: Vigan Longganisa (non-veg)

Café Uno

Address: General Luna St, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Famous Food: Bagnet (non-veg)

Kusina Felicitas

Address: Grandpa's Inn, #1 Bonifacio St., Vigan City

Famous Food: Pinakbet (can be veg or non-veg)

Hidden Garden

Address: Katipunan St, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Famous Food: Lumpiang Ubod (veg)

Lilong and Lilang Restaurant

Address: Liberation Blvd, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Famous Food: Poqui-poqui (veg)

Note that while Vigan is known for specializing in certain dishes that may contain pork or other meats, vegetarian options are becoming more available, and many restaurants are willing to cater to different dietary preferences.