Top 4 Places to Eat in Vigan

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Sophie King, John Santos
17/08/2025
A woman poses on Calle Crisologo in Vigan City, showcasing colonial architecture and bustling street life.
Pinkmean Creative, Pexels

Vigan's dining scene offers a delightful journey through Ilocano cuisine, blending traditional Filipino dishes with hints of Spanish and Chinese influences, catering to those seeking an authentic and flavorful experience.

1. Irene's Vigan Empanada

Cuisine: Ilocano Empanada and street food

A visit to Vigan is incomplete without trying its iconic Empanada, and Irene's is a local institution known for its authentic recipe. The empanadas here feature a balanced, savory filling of Vigan longganisa, grated green papaya, and egg, encased in a distinctively crispy, light orange shell. It is best enjoyed hot, dipped in a mix of local vinegar (sukang Iloko) with onions, garlic, and chili for an enhanced flavor. Aside from the classic, they also offer various fillings like bagnet, sisig, chicken, and even tuna, alongside crispy Okoy (shrimp fritters).

Price: PHP 40-100 per piece (approximately $1-2 USD)

Getting There: Irene's has a branch directly on Calle Crisologo and its main branch on Calle Salcedo, both are easily walkable from the main heritage area.

2. Cafe Leona

Cuisine: Ilocano, Japanese, and Italian Fusion

Nestled on the historic Calle Crisologo, Cafe Leona provides a unique dining experience within a heritage house setting, offering both indoor and outdoor seating that becomes particularly atmospheric in the evenings. The restaurant is well-regarded for its diverse menu, featuring traditional Ilocano dishes like Bagnet, Vigan Longganisa, and Pinakbet, often with creative Japanese and Italian twists, such as Bagnet-Bacon Maki and Pinakbet Pizza topped with Vigan Longganisa. Despite its popularity, portions are generous, and prices are fair, offering a blend of local and international flavors.

Price: PHP 200-500+ per dish (approximately $4-10+ USD)

Getting There: Located directly on Calle Crisologo, it is easily accessible by foot from most accommodations in the heritage area.

3. Hidden Garden Lilong and Lilang Restaurant

Cuisine: Authentic Ilocano Cuisine

Tucked away within the Hidden Garden, this restaurant offers a tranquil and charming ambiance with its lush garden setting and native bamboo decor. It's a fantastic spot to immerse in authentic Ilocano flavors away from the bustling city center. Signature dishes include Crispy Bagnet, Dinengdeng (vegetable soup), Sinanglao (sour soup), and Ukoy (shrimp fritters). They also serve a unique version of Vigan Empanada and refreshing Halo-Halo in a coconut shell. While some reviews mention occasional slow service or higher prices, the overall experience of quality food in a unique setting is consistently praised.

Price: PHP 150-400+ per dish (approximately $3-8+ USD)

Getting There: Situated approximately 4km from Plaza Burgos and Calle Crisologo, a tricycle ride is recommended, typically costing around PHP 50-100.

4. Cafe Uno

Cuisine: Traditional Ilocano and Filipino Breakfast/Comfort Food

Found within the charming Grandpa's Inn, Cafe Uno offers a cozy and rustic dining atmosphere, making it a favorite for both intimate meals and a hearty start to the day. The restaurant specializes in heirloom Ilocano recipes, with must-try dishes including Vigan Longganisa, Bagnet, Poqui-poqui, and Dinengdeng. They are particularly popular for their breakfast 'silog' meals (rice, egg, and meat dishes) and also offer cakes and pasta. The ambiance, with its wooden beams and capiz lanterns, evokes an old-world charm, providing a comfortable setting for diners.

Price: PHP 100-300+ per dish (approximately $2-6+ USD)

Getting There: Located on Bonifacio Street, near Plaza Burgos, it is within walking distance from Calle Crisologo and other central attractions.

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