Best Eats In La Union: A Foodie’s Paradise

Experience the Best of La Union’s Cuisine

La Union, a beautiful province in the northern part of the Philippines, is known for its stunning beaches and surf spots. But La Union has more to offer than just its scenic views. It’s also home to a plethora of food options that will satisfy any foodie’s cravings. From traditional Filipino dishes to international cuisine, La Union has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore the best eats in La Union, so you can make the most of your culinary journey.

🍴 Where to Find the Best Local Food

One of the best things about traveling is trying out the local cuisine, and La Union is no exception. Here are some must-try local dishes:

Bagnet

Bagnet is a popular pork dish that originated from Ilocos, the neighboring province of La Union. It’s made by boiling the pork belly, air-drying it, and then deep-frying it until it’s crispy and golden brown. You can find bagnet in most restaurants in La Union, but one of the best places to try it is at Halo Halo de Iloko in San Fernando.

Pakbet

Pakbet is a traditional Filipino dish made with mixed vegetables and shrimp paste. It’s a healthy and flavorful option that you can find in most local restaurants in La Union. Try it at Cafe Leona in San Fernando, which is known for its authentic Ilocano cuisine.

Empanada

Empanada is a savory pastry that’s stuffed with meat, vegetables, and spices. It’s a popular snack in the Philippines, and you can find it in most food stalls and restaurants. But if you want to try the best empanada in La Union, head to Vigan City, which is just an hour’s drive from San Fernando.

Longganisa

Longganisa is a sweet and savory sausage that’s made with ground pork and spices. It’s a breakfast staple in the Philippines, and you can find it in most restaurants in La Union. But if you want to try the best longganisa, head to Aling Foping’s in San Juan, which is known for its homemade longganisa.

Sinigang

Sinigang is a classic Filipino soup that’s made with tamarind, vegetables, and meat or seafood. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for rainy days. Try it at Gefseis Greek Grill in Bauang, which puts a Greek twist on this Filipino favorite.

🍴 Where to Find International Cuisine

If you’re craving something different, La Union also has a variety of international cuisine options. Here are some places to try:

El Union Coffee

El Union Coffee in San Juan is not just a coffee shop, but also a hub for foodies. It’s known for its specialty coffee, but also offers a variety of snacks and sandwiches that will satisfy your cravings. Try their famous Grilled Cheese Sandwich, which is made with sourdough bread and three different kinds of cheese.

Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa

Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa in San Juan is a haven for surfers, but it’s also a great place to dine. Their restaurant, The Copa Lagoon, offers a variety of dishes that fuse Asian and Western cuisine. Try their Seafood Risotto or the Beef Rendang.

The Great Northwest Philippines Travel Stop and Viewing Deck

The Great Northwest Philippines Travel Stop and Viewing Deck in Rosario is not just a pit stop for travelers, but also a great place to dine. Their restaurant, The Dining Room, offers a variety of international cuisine options, from Italian pasta to American burgers. Try their Chicken Parmigiana or the Bacon Cheeseburger.

Tagpuan sa San Juan

Tagpuan sa San Juan is a cozy restaurant that specializes in Filipino-Italian fusion cuisine. It’s located in the heart of San Juan and offers a variety of dishes that will satisfy your taste buds. Try their Pizza Margherita or the Adobo Pasta.

Mad Monkeys

If you’re craving some Mexican food, head to Mad Monkeys in San Juan. Their restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from tacos to burritos, that are made with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. Try their Fish Tacos or the Beef Barbacoa Burrito.

🍴 Where to Find Sweet Treats

No meal is complete without dessert, and La Union has a variety of sweet treats to choose from. Here are some places to satisfy your sweet tooth:

Halo Halo de Iloko

Halo Halo de Iloko in San Fernando is not just a place to try bagnet, but also a place to enjoy the iconic Filipino dessert, halo-halo. It’s a refreshing dessert that’s made with shaved ice, sweet beans, fruits, and leche flan. Try their Special Halo-Halo, which is topped with ube ice cream.

Isabel’s Patisserie

Isabel’s Patisserie in San Juan is a quaint bakery that offers a variety of sweet treats, from cakes to pastries. Try their Ube Cheese Pandesal, which is a soft pandesal bun that’s filled with ube and cream cheese.

Sebay Surf Central

Sebay Surf Central in San Juan is not just a place to stay, but also a great place to enjoy some sweet treats. Their restaurant offers a variety of desserts, from ice cream to cakes. Try their Nutella Cheesecake or the Mango Float.

Cafe Leona

Cafe Leona in San Fernando is not just a place to try pakbet, but also a great place to enjoy some desserts. Try their Sans Rival, which is a layer cake that’s made with cashews and buttercream.

The Coffee Library

The Coffee Library in San Juan is not just a place to enjoy coffee, but also a great place to enjoy some sweet treats. Try their Chocolate Cake, which is a moist and decadent cake that’s made with chocolate ganache.

🍴 Best Places to Eat in La Union

La Union has a variety of restaurants and food stalls, but here are some of the best places to eat:

Midnight Special

Midnight Special in San Juan is a food stall that’s open 24/7. It’s a popular spot for surfers and locals who are looking for some late-night snacks. Try their Chicken Inasal or the Tapa Rice Bowl.

Olives Restaurant

Olives Restaurant in Bauang is a cozy restaurant that’s known for its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Try their Lamb Chops or the Seafood Pasta.

Beach Bum Food Park

Beach Bum Food Park in San Juan is a food park that’s located near the beach. It’s a great place to enjoy some food and drinks while watching the sunset. Try the Pulled Pork Sandwich or the Chicken Katsu Curry.

Surf Shack

Surf Shack in San Juan is a beachfront restaurant that’s perfect for surfers and beachgoers. Try their Fish and Chips or the Steak Sandwich.

Coffee Break

Coffee Break in San Fernando is not just a coffee shop, but also a great place to enjoy some food. Try their Sizzling Sisig or the Tapa Rice Bowl.

🍴 Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best local dish to try in La Union?

The best local dish to try in La Union is bagnet. It’s a crispy pork belly dish that’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

2. Where can I find the best bagnet in La Union?

You can find the best bagnet in La Union at Halo Halo de Iloko in San Fernando.

3. What is the best international cuisine to try in La Union?

The best international cuisine to try in La Union is the Seafood Risotto or the Beef Rendang at The Copa Lagoon in Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa.

4. Where can I find the best dessert in La Union?

You can find the best dessert in La Union at Halo Halo de Iloko in San Fernando.

5. What is the best place to eat in La Union?

There are many great places to eat in La Union, but some of the best places include Midnight Special in San Juan, Olives Restaurant in Bauang, and Beach Bum Food Park in San Juan.

6. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options in La Union?

Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options in La Union. Try the Vegetable Curry at The Copa Lagoon in Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa or the Vegetarian Pizza at Tagpuan