Saramsam Ylocano Restaurant and Bar, Laoag, Ilocos Norte

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Saramsam Ylocano Restaurant and Bar, Balay da Blas, Laoag, Ilocos Norte

Saramsam Ylocano Restaurant is the in-house restaurant of Balay da Blas (read more), and would you believe that this place is also a hot go-to destination for foodies?

Well, I think there's nothing much surprising about it. Firstly, the popularity of Balay da Blas drips down to Saramsam; hence, people going to Balay da Blas have the natural tendency to try the restaurant as well. However, I believe that won't be sufficient to sustain its fame.

Now, here are possibly the more fundamental reasons as to why locals as well as tourists flock here in this place, but first let these photos speak for themselves.

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The colorful interior of Saramsam with native touches

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Saramsam Ylocano Restaurant can be a place for romantic dinner!

Saramsam offers an extreme air of comfort that makes you feel extra homey and at peace, and with the quaint yet colorful interior, you'll surely fall in love with the place.

In fact, it's so beautiful you can bring your date here, and have an awesome serene dining experience.

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Additional photo of Saramsam's interior in Laoag, Ilocos Norte

Now, if you want to go a little modern, you may want to check out this semi-private room of Saramsam. It has this posh feel and classy touches.

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The semi-private room in Saramsam, Laoag, Ilocos Norte

Of course, the place won't be as popular as it is without the essence -- the dishes. So, let's now get to the bottom of this by taking a look at some of the food served here in Saramsam Ylocano Restaurant.

Poque-poque Salad || P150

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The refreshing poque-poque for appetizer

This salad was remarkably refreshing not only to the eyes but to the taste buds as well. Also, I just love how well-spiced yet well-balanced the flavors were.

Canton Guisado || P115

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The Canton Guisado of Saramsam in Balay da Blas

Coming in with soft noodles, the Canton Guisado was tasty but arguably salty, as far as my taste buds are concerned.

Saramsam Pasta || P160

Spaghetti with shrimps, cilantro, green and red peppers, fresh tomatoes, onions, green and ripe mango slices, with olive oil and grated parmesan cheese

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The confusing pasta dish of Saramsam -- multitude of not highly harmonious flavors

The taste of this dish was way too confusing that I myself got confused whether I appreciate it or not. However, the fact that it made me think about it may suggest that this dish is "something".

It had multi-directional flavors (i.e. sweetness from the mangoes, saltiness from the cheese and herby taste from the veggies and spices) that may not be completely harmonious.

Dinardaraan Pizza || P185 for 8" || P345 for 11"

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The unique and tasty Dinardaraan or Dinuguan Pizza - something for a change!

This pizza was definitely unique with the added Pinoy twist of putting dinuguan on top. I know it may be disgusting for you, but it honestly worked for me. I'm giving this a two-thumbs up!

Lauya a Baka || P205

Meaty beef bones, potatoes and cabbage delicately soured with tomatoes

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Lauya a Baka of Saramsam Restaurant

Although it may not appear visually enticing, this Lauya a Baka was something that I found refreshing with its balanced flavor and generous meat serving.

Chicken Pork Adobo || P195

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Chicken Pork Adobo by Saramsam in Balay da Blas

I did not find this enjoyable for two reasons. First off, the serving appeared to be small. Second, the adobo had this saltiness that I found beyond what I can tolerate. In fact, the saltiness was too strong that it lingered in my taste buds. However, one of my friends saw this dish completely different, and he even said it was just "spiced rightly".

Chicharong Bagnet with KBL (Kamatis, Bagoong and Lasona) || P245

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Crispy bagnet of Saramsam - a definite best seller!

This Ilocano specialty was a star with its authentic crispiness and tastiness (leaving a guilt-full but pleasurable palatable experience).

Kalti || P175 (left) and Saniata Ice Cream (Dragon Fruit) || P45 (right)
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Although I didn't find the desserts we had superb, I still got to enjoy the Kalti (which had this suave mascovado goodness), but unfortunately not the ice cream.

Now, before I end, let me show this with you which is actually our first group photo in Laoag, if I remembered it right.

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A Not-So-Popular Kid with the gang in Saramsam of Balay da Blas

All thanks to my great friends for making our Laoag trip fantastic! 

Saramsam Ylocano Restaurant - Overall Ratings and Summary

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Note: Unshaded stars are equivalents of half-stars. The ratings apply solely to this dining experience.
Place ★★★★★
Taste  ★★★☆
Service  ★★★★☆
Value for Money ★★★★☆
Budget: At least P220 each  for a complete meal with friends going in a group of at least 4

With the astounding beauty of its interior, Saramsam Ylocano Restaurant is definitely something you may want to look forward to when you visit Laoag. The food served is generally comforting and delicious. The service is marked with friendliness and warmth, and the prices are relatively cheap and affordable.