When in Pampanga, it's a must to pay respects to their sisig – you are at the homebase of the national pulutan after all, and the chopped pig's face is one of the many proud culinary creations of this province. Naturally, Capampangans are protective of this pork dish — they scoff at items that are labeled as sisig when it's topped with egg or drizzled with mayonnaise. Their sisig is as pure as it gets, its meaty parts soured ('sisig' is comes from a Tagalog term meaning 'to sour'), and apparently it was also the dish that pregnant women in Pampanga would eat — it's said to relieve nausea, while nowadays it's the staple beer match or hangover food (with extra rice, please).
Mila's Tokwa't Baboy is a carinderia in Angeles City that's considered one of the OG of sisig in Pampanga, and while it's their mighty good tokwa't baboy that's given credit in their name, it is the two kinds of sisig that bring the hungry locals and foodie travelers alike here.
Sisig here is served two ways, plain and sizzling, each having its own delicious appeal. Sizzling Sisig is the more familiar choice, the eatery serving chopped pigs' face on a sizzling plate. It's classic and comforting, the savory bites getting some crunch and juicyness from the chopped onions. Try it first without dousing it with hot sauce or seasoning, which is often our default — keep it simple to experience the sisig the way the locals enjoy it!
For something different, try the Plain Sisig, which is said to be the original form of the dish. Here, the meat is never meant to be crunchy and is served cold — plain sisig is chopped pig's parts that have been boiled, soured, and tossed with some chilis. Kilawin or ceviche eaters will find this version very appealing, the sourness just enough and the chewy and chunky pieces (especially the ear cartilage) very delightful. While this plain sisig is zesty and refreshing and will definitely be a good appetizer, don't forget to pair your sizzling sisig with heapings of white rice!
The Dish: Plain Sisig (P150) and Sizzling Sisig (P220)
Where to Find it: Mila’s Tokwa't Baboy, located at San Andres St. corner San Joaquin St., Barangay Sto. Domingo, Angeles City, Pampanga. Mila's is open daily 10am to 10pm; call (045) 888-6727 for inquiries.
