Food plays a central role in Chinese culture and celebrations. And like the lucky charms and trinkets, dishes commonly served at the Chinese New Year have symbolic meaning for the year ahead. So if you’re looking for a positive start to the Chinese New Year, SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan and SM City Valenzuela have rounded up lucky dishes that is sure to bring you daji dali—good luck and great prosperity.
LONGEVITY NOODLES. Noodles symbolize longevity- the longer the better. As the name suggests, the long and uncut strands signify the long life of anyone who partakes it. Eating noodles on Chinese New Year is believed to attract good health and long life. Shoppers may try Panda Express’ Chow Mein. This savory stir-fried noodle dish is expertly cooked with a flavorful combination of fresh vegetables and seasoned with a savory soy-based sauce, creating a delightful medley of textures and tastes. Panda Express is located at the 2nd level of SM City Grand Central.
DUMPLINGS. Dumplings are the most popular lucky Chinese food. They are considered lucky food because they resemble ancient Chinese gold or silver ingot, which represent wealth and success. Eating dumplings during this festive season is said to bring good fortune and financial prosperity, making them an important element of Lunar New Year festivities. Experience the luck and prosperity of the Lunar New Year with David’s Teahouse lucky dumplings, available at SM Foodcourt on the 4th level of SM City Grand Central.
SPRING ROLLS. Spring rolls are named after the event for which they are customarily cooked, the Spring Festival. The crisp golden rolls are believed to represent gold bars, bringing wealth and success in the coming year. Eating spring rolls also represents the shedding of the old and welcoming the new, which is consistent with the spirit of renewal and good fortune connected with the Chinese New Year. Enjoy the symbolically rich tastes and crispy deliciousness of Hap Chan’s Spring rolls available at SM City Valenzuela.
WHOLE STEAMED FISH. Did you know that the Chinese word for fish means abundance? No wonder they believe in eating fish while celebrating the Lunar New Year. Serving the fish whole, head and tail included, represents family completeness and oneness. Sharing this meal symbolizes a desire for unity and plenty, making it an important and auspicious option for gatherings. Share this cuisine with the whole family and elevate your dining experience at SM City Grand Central’s Mandarin Sky.
TIKOY. Commonly known as “nian gao” in Chinese, Tikoy represents growth of prosperity. The glutinous rice cake’s sticky texture represents family togetherness and the adherence of good fortune. It is traditionally savored as a sweet dessert and symbolizes the promise for a “sweet” and successful year ahead. Sharing and giving tikoy during Lunar New Year festivities is thought to increase the spirit of peace and good fortune among family and friends. Head to SM Supermarket at SM Center Sangandaan to discover the perfect tikoy for your festivities. Shoppers may also try other Chinese delicacies like Hopia and Kiat-kiat.
Embrace the good fortune the Year of the Wood Dragon brings only at SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan and SM City Valenzuela. Visit us today!
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