Where To Eat In Laoag

Laoag, the capital city of Ilocos Norte, is a treasure trove of culinary delights that will satisfy any foodie’s cravings. Known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, Laoag is also a city that takes pride in its gastronomic offerings. From traditional Ilocano dishes to modern twists and international flavors, the city’s dining scene is a reflection of its vibrant and diverse community.

Overview of Laoag’s Culinary Landscape

Laoag’s food scene is a fusion of traditional and modern, with a mix of old-school eateries, trendy restaurants, and street food stalls. The city is famous for its local specialties such as poqui-poqui (a dish made from grilled eggplant, tomatoes, and onions), dinakdakan (a spicy appetizer made from grilled pork’s face and ears), and bagnet (crispy fried pork belly). Visitors can also find a variety of international cuisines, from Chinese to Italian, and even vegan and vegetarian options.

Best Places to Eat in Laoag

In this article, we will explore the best places to eat in Laoag, from popular restaurants to hidden gems and local favorites. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot, a quick bite, or a food adventure, we’ve got you covered. So, come and join us as we take you on a culinary journey through the city of Laoag!

Where to Eat in Laoag: A Foodie’s Guide

Laoag, the capital city of Ilocos Norte, is a haven for foodies. The city offers a diverse range of culinary delights, from traditional Ilocano dishes to international cuisine. In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey to the best places to eat in Laoag.

Traditional Ilocano Cuisine

Ilocano cuisine is known for its bold flavors, hearty portions, and use of local ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes include:

• Pinakbet, a vegetable dish cooked in shrimp paste and served with steamed rice
• Dinengdeng, a vegetable stew made with various vegetables and grilled fish
• Sinanglao, a hearty beef stew cooked in a mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic
• Bagnet, crispy fried pork belly served with steamed rice and vegetables

Here are some of the best restaurants in Laoag that serve traditional Ilocano cuisine:

International Cuisine

In addition to traditional Ilocano cuisine, Laoag also offers a range of international cuisine to cater to diverse tastes. Here are some of the best restaurants in Laoag that serve international cuisine: (See Also: Where To Eat In Taunton)

• Italian: Bella Vista, located at the Laoag City Hall Complex, serves authentic Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, and risotto.
• Chinese: Hap Chan, located at the Laoag City Center, offers a variety of Chinese dishes like dim sum, noodles, and rice meals.
• Korean: K-Pub, located at the Laoag City Center, serves Korean-style BBQ and other Korean dishes like bibimbap and kimchi.
• Japanese: Tokyo Tokyo, located at the Laoag City Center, offers a range of Japanese dishes like sushi, ramen, and udon.

Here are some of the best restaurants in Laoag that serve international cuisine:

Coffee Shops and Bakeries

Laoag is also home to a number of coffee shops and bakeries that offer a range of coffee, pastries, and desserts. Here are some of the best coffee shops and bakeries in Laoag:

• Coffee Shops:
  • Bo’s Coffee, located at the Laoag City Center, offers a range of coffee drinks and pastries.
  • Figaro Coffee, located at the Laoag City Hall Complex, serves coffee, sandwiches, and salads.
• Bakeries:
  • Goldilocks, located at the Laoag City Center, offers a range of Filipino-style bread and pastries.
  • Red Ribbon, located at the Laoag City Center, serves a variety of cakes, bread, and pastries.

Here are some of the best coffee shops and bakeries in Laoag:

Street Food and Markets

Laoag is also known for its street food and markets, which offer a range of affordable and delicious options. Here are some of the best street food and markets in Laoag:

• Laoag Public Market, located at the heart of the city, offers a range of fresh produce, meat, and seafood.
• La Paz Sanduguan, located at the La Paz district, offers a variety of street food like grilled meat, seafood, and vegetables.
• Ilocos Norte Night Market, located at the Laoag City Center, offers a range of street food, souvenirs, and local products.

Here are some of the best street food and markets in Laoag:

Food Tripping Tips

Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your food trip in Laoag: (See Also: Where To Eat In Nola)

• Try the local specialties, such as pinakbet, dinengdeng, and sinanglao.
• Explore the local markets, such as the Laoag Public Market and La Paz Sanduguan, to try a range of street food and local products.
• Visit during peak season, from March to May, to experience the city’s vibrant festivals and events.
• Bring cash, as not all restaurants and markets accept credit cards.
• Be adventurous, and try new dishes and flavors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Laoag is a foodie’s paradise, offering a range of traditional Ilocano cuisine, international dishes, coffee shops, bakeries, and street food. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal, a sweet treat, or a quick snack, Laoag has something to offer. So, come and visit Laoag, and experience the city’s vibrant food scene for yourself!

Recap:

• Laoag offers a range of traditional Ilocano cuisine, including pinakbet, dinengdeng, and sinanglao.
• The city has a number of international restaurants, including Italian, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese.
• Coffee shops and bakeries, such as Bo’s Coffee and Goldilocks, offer a range of coffee and pastries.
• Street food and markets, such as the Laoag Public Market and La Paz Sanduguan, offer a range of affordable and delicious options.
• Food tripping tips include trying local specialties, exploring local markets, visiting during peak season, bringing cash, and being adventurous.

We hope this guide has helped you plan your food trip to Laoag. Happy eating!

Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in Laoag

What are the must-try dishes in Laoag?

Laoag is known for its delicious Ilocano cuisine, and some must-try dishes include Pinakbet (a vegetable dish cooked in shrimp paste), Bagnet (crispy fried pork belly), and Poqui-poqui (a dish made from grilled eggplant, tomatoes, and eggs). Don’t forget to try the local specialty, Laoag Empanada, which is a savory pastry filled with vegetables, meat, or seafood.

Where can I find the best empanada in Laoag?

There are several places in Laoag that serve delicious empanadas, but some popular spots include the Laoag Public Market, where you can find various stalls selling freshly cooked empanadas, and the famous Saramsam Ilocano Grill and Restaurant, which offers a variety of empanada flavors. (See Also: Where To Eat In National Harbor)

Are there any restaurants in Laoag that serve international cuisine?

Yes, while Laoag is known for its local cuisine, there are several restaurants that serve international dishes. Some popular options include the Farmacia Eatery, which serves a mix of Filipino and international dishes, and the Laoag Renzo Hotel’s restaurant, which offers a range of international cuisine, including Chinese, Japanese, and Western dishes.

Can I find vegetarian or vegan options in Laoag?

While Laoag is a meat-lover’s paradise, there are some restaurants that offer vegetarian or vegan options. Some popular spots include the Farmacia Eatery, which has a separate vegetarian menu, and the Saramsam Ilocano Grill and Restaurant, which offers some vegetarian dishes. You can also try the local markets, where you can find fresh fruits and vegetables to prepare your own meals.

Are there any food stalls or markets that are open late at night?

Yes, Laoag has several food stalls and markets that are open late at night, perfect for midnight cravings or post-party snacks. Some popular spots include the Laoag Night Market, which is open until the early hours of the morning, and the food stalls along the national highway, which serve a range of snacks and drinks until late at night.