On the first day of our tour in Ilocos Norte, the staff of DOT Region 1 mentioned that we would have the opportunity to try the famous Pinakbet Pizza at Kusina Valentin before exploring Paoay Church.
Kusina Valentin, formerly known as Herencia, gained popularity by transforming the traditional Ilocano dish, Pinakbet, into a pizza. Pinakbet is a well-known dish made from various vegetables cooked with bagoong. We also learned that the restaurant was named after Valentin Diaz, a Paoayeño and the co-founder of the Katipunan.
When we arrived at the restaurant, we were pleasantly surprised to find it situated in front of Paoay Church. Its charming, old and vintage facade caught our attention, and upon entering, we noticed the bright and airy interiors. The restaurant also has large windows offering a breathtaking view of Paoay Church.
Kusina Valentin is famous for its authentic Ilocano cuisine, including crispy Bagnet and Sinigang na Malaga with Gamet. Malaga, a fish popular in the northern regions like Ilocos and Pangasinan, has tender meat perfect for Sinigang. While Gamet, a traditional dried seaweed, adds a distinct flavor to the dish.
Also, the restaurant offers a specialty called Gamet Seafood Pizza. During our brunch visit, we tried a variety of pizzas with unique flavors like Ilocos longganisa, Bagnet, garlic, cheese, and, of course, the must-try Pinakbet Pizza.
The view from Kusina Valentin.
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Trying Pinakbet Pizza
While all the pizzas were delightful, the Ilocos longganisa-flavored one stood out. However, we shouldn’t miss trying the famous Pinakbet Pizza. With the first bite, I immediately tasted the freshness of the vegetables, providing a crisp texture. Overall, the pizza was delicious, especially when paired with bagoong, enhancing its flavors and evoking memories of the real Pinakbet dish.
Our culinary adventure didn’t end with eating, the restaurant also offered a demonstration of how to make Pinakbet Pizza. It appeared simple, but I understood it required skill to ensure both flavor and the freshness of ingredients.
We watched the demo against the backdrop of Paoay Church, adding to the memorable experience.
Overall, dining at Kusina Valentin was a delightful experience offering delicious Ilocano dishes. When visiting Paoay, be sure to dine at Kusina Valentin to savor their culinary delights, including the unforgettable Pinakbet Pizza.
The demo on how to make Pinakbet Pizza.
Kusina Valentin Contact Information
Kusina Valentin
14 McArthur, Brgy Sangladan, Paoay, 2902 Ilocos Norte
0917 587 4628
kusinavalentin@gmail.com
Facebook: Kusina Valentin
Note: This Ilocos Tour was made possible by the DOT Region 1 and Cebu Pacific. Thank you!
FAQs about Kusina Valentin
1. What is Kusina Valentin?
Kusina Valentin is a restaurant located in Paoay, Ilocos Norte. It’s famous for its delicious Ilocano dishes and unique Pinakbet Pizza.
2. Why is it called Kusina Valentin?
The restaurant was named after Valentin Diaz, a co-founder of the Katipunan and a native of Paoay, Ilocos Norte.
3. What kind of food does Kusina Valentin serve?
Kusina Valentin serves authentic Ilocano cuisine, including crispy Bagnet, Sinigang na Malaga with Gamet, and their specialty Pinakbet Pizza.
4. What is Pinakbet Pizza?
Pinakbet Pizza is a unique dish that combines the flavors of the traditional Ilocano dish Pinakbet with pizza toppings. It features a thin crust topped with fresh vegetables and other local ingredients.
5. Can I find other types of pizza at Kusina Valentin?
Yes! Along with Pinakbet Pizza, Kusina Valentin offers a variety of pizzas with flavors like Ilocos longganisa, Bagnet, garlic, and cheese.
6. Is Kusina Valentin suitable for families?
Absolutely! Kusina Valentin is a family-friendly restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and a menu that caters to different tastes, including options for kids.
7. Can I enjoy a view while dining at Kusina Valentin?
Yes, indeed! Kusina Valentin is situated in front of the picturesque Paoay Church, offering diners a lovely view while enjoying their meal.
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