It’s no secret that Pinoys love to cook and eat. Whenever a visitor drops by the house, it’s automatic to ask if he or she has already eaten and we’ll gladly offer what’s on the table. Food has the power to bring people together, and on a bigger scale, it can give a glimpse of a country’s rich culture, too.
In our country alone, each region has its own delicacies and pasalubong treats. Pampanga, dubbed as the culinary capital of the Philippines, is the home of the world-famous sisig and other mouthwatering dishes. A visit to this northern province wouldn’t be complete without a sampling of its filling fare like authentic sisig and a refreshing glass of halo-halo. If you’re in the area and you’re up for a gastronomic adventure, here are 10 restaurants that should be on your list:
Aling Lucing’s
Glaciano Valdez Street, Brgy. Agapito del Rosario, Angeles, Pampanga
Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or a catch-up date with friends – sisig is always a welcome addition to the menu. Aling Lucing’s sizzling plate of wonder features pig’s head and liver that are chopped and seasoned to perfection. Aside from having a feast on your visit, you can also take home ready-to-heat sisig packs so you can enjoy it even in your own dining area.
The Original Razon’s
JASA Road, San Matias, Guagua, Pampanga
Macapuno, shaved ice, and milk – the Razon’s halo-halo mix proves that you don’t need a ton of ingredients to create a delectable masterpiece. Each glass of their no-fail halo-halo is topped with a slice of leche flan that adds to its refreshing sweetness. Go here for merienda and make sure you order a plate of Pancit Luglug, too!
25 Seeds by Café Fleur
2F Dycaico Ancestral House, Brgy. Sto. Rosario, Angeles City, Pampanga
What can we expect from a celebrated Kapampangan chef? Unforgettable Filipino dishes with a twist, of course! Chef Sau del Rosario is the brain behind 25 Seeds by Café Fleur, a charming restaurant that will remind you of Filipino warmth and hospitality the moment you step inside. For a hearty course, make sure you order the Tamales Pampanguena and Pandan Chicken. Cap off your meal with Salted Egg Bibingka Cheesecake and Smoothies.
Matam-ih Authentic Kapampangan Cuisine
Lot 1-D M.A., Manuel A. Roxas Highway, Mabalacat, Pampanga
Up for a palate adventure? If you’re brave enough to venture out of the usual fare, Matam-ih is the best stop! Aside from the usual lutong-bahay favorites like Adobo, Crispy Pata, and Kare-Kare, this restaurant also offers exotic dishes like Adobong Salagubang, Kalderetang Kambing, and other viands cooked using crocodile meat.
Downtown Café
Plaridel Street, Angeles City, Pampanga
A brainchild of proud Kapampangan Chef Claude Tayag, Downtown Café is the perfect choice for families and friends who love reminiscing about the good ol’ days over an equally satisfying meal. Start your foodie journey with a serving of Trianggulos or fried samosas then follow it up with an order of Crispy Aromatic Spring Duck. Love rice? A bowl of Crispy Crablets with Pure Talangka on Rice won’t disappoint.
SOUQ Pampanga
Lazatin Boulevard, San Juan, San Fernando City, Pampanga
Picture-perfect and Pinterest-worthy, the Souq features charming corners that instantly capture the attention of guests. While taking photos of the restaurant will take your time, don’t forget to relish the dishes they offer! Start off with the refreshing Pako Salad and have a taste of the pasta offerings. Pasta Aligue and Smoked Fish in Pesto Cream Sauce are instant favorites, but if you want something heavier, you can always go for the Double Cooker Crispy Pork Belly Kare-Kare.
Bale Capampangan
Km 69, MacArthur Highway, San Fernando City, Pampanga
As its name suggests, Bale Capampangan offers unlimited serving of authentic Kapampangan food in a nostalgic yet energetic setting. Marvel at the beauty of the place and the interesting décor pieces as you savor each specialty! Some of the must-tries include Arobung Balut, Bistig Damulag, and Lenguang Baca.
Piccolo Padre
Prime Asia Hotel, Narciso Avenue, Angeles City, Pampanga
Looking for a fine dining option? Piccolo Padre fits the bill. With posh interiors and a fancy menu, to boot, Piccolo Padre is perfect for date nights or a special celebration with loved ones. Kick-off the feast with a plate of Live Oysters Inferno then treat your taste buds to a serving of Ossobucco Alla Milanese. Craving for seafood? Do check out Prawns Scampi and Furikake Salmon.
Mila’s Tokwa’t Baboy and Special Sizzling Sisig
San Andres Street, Brgy. San Angelo, Angeles City, Pampanga
No-frills and good food in a comfy setting – that’s what you will get at Mila’s. Some claim its sisig is one of the best so make sure you order a plate and give it your own rating. If you’re up for something other than sisig, you can never go wrong with Chicharron Bulaklak, BBQ Tocino, and the Tokwa’t Baboy.
Abe’s Farm
Magalang, Pampanga
Often referred to as a lifestyle destination, Abe’s Farm offers dining, accommodations, a spa, and a museum all in one serene hideaway. Those dropping by for a meal shouldn’t miss out on the Lamb Adobo, Sugpo sa Aligue, and Arobung Kamaru (Farm Crickets).
Without a doubt, Pampanga is truly a gem of a destination if you’re into discovering culinary specialties and culture. Its continuous progress is making this province a real estate hotspot, too. With homeowners looking into the possibility of moving out of the Metro, the city of San Fernando holds a lot of promise when it comes to finding a forever address.
The Resort Residences at Azure North, patterned after the success and lifestyle of the Azure Urban Resort Residences in Paranaque, brings resort-inspired living to San Fernando. Here, you live in the middle of the busy city but you can feel like you’re in a tropical island 24/7. At Azure North, you get a high-quality condo unit in a good location that’s near commercial establishments, schools, and food stops.
Tour the property and talk to an agent about available units without getting up from your couch! Log on to www.azurenorth.com.ph to take a virtual tour and be inspired to achieve your own #condogoals in San Fernando.
