As the Lunar New Year gallops into 2026, the Year of the Horse ushers in a spirit of energy, ambition, and forward motion. Beyond the vibrant reds, lanterns, and fireworks, Chinese New Year celebrations are deeply rooted in what is served at the table, where every dish carries a wish for prosperity, health, unity, and abundance.
This season, SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela curate a flavorful journey through auspicious Chinese New Year favorites that blend time honored tradition with modern, accessible dining experiences.
Longevity Noodles for a Strong and Healthy Year
Noodles symbolize long life and good health in Chinese tradition. The long, uncut strands represent longevity, making them a must have dish during Lunar New Year celebrations. The belief is simple: the longer the noodles, the longer and healthier the life. Shoppers can enjoy Panda Express’ Chow Mein, a savory stir fried noodle dish mixed with fresh vegetables and seasoned with a soy based sauce. Panda Express is located at the second level of SM City Grand Central.
Dumplings That Symbolize Wealth and Prosperity
Dumplings are among the most popular lucky foods during Chinese New Year. Their shape resembles ancient Chinese gold and silver ingots, symbolizing wealth, success, and financial prosperity. Serving dumplings during the festivities is believed to invite good fortune for the year ahead. Welcome abundance in the Year of the Horse with Wangfu Chinese Café’s lucky dumplings, available at the fifth level of SM City Grand Central.
Spring Rolls for Golden Beginnings
Spring rolls are named after the Spring Festival and are associated with renewal and fresh starts. Their golden, crispy exterior represents gold bars, symbolizing wealth and success. Eating spring rolls also signifies letting go of the old and welcoming new opportunities, perfectly aligned with the energetic spirit of the Year of the Horse. Enjoy a modern take on this symbolic dish with Kuya J’s Lumpiang Quesadilla, available at SM City Valenzuela.
Whole Steamed Fish for Abundance and Unity
In Chinese culture, the word for fish sounds like the word for abundance. This makes fish an essential dish during Lunar New Year celebrations. Serving the fish whole, with head and tail intact, represents completeness, family unity, and prosperity from beginning to end. Families can share this meaningful dish with Mandarin Sky’s steamed lapu lapu, available at SM City Grand Central, making it an ideal centerpiece for New Year gatherings.
Tikoy for Growth, Harmony, and Sweet Success
Commonly known as nian gao, tikoy symbolizes growth in prosperity and success. Its sticky texture represents strong family bonds and the idea that good fortune stays throughout the year. Traditionally enjoyed as a sweet dessert, tikoy promises a sweet and harmonious year ahead. Find the perfect tikoy at SM Supermarket in SM Center Sangandaan, and explore other Chinese New Year favorites such as hopia and kiat kiat at SM Hypermarket in SM City Valenzuela.
As the Year of the Horse brings renewed energy and optimism in 2026, let meaningful food traditions guide your celebrations. Welcome the Lunar New Year with symbolic flavors, shared moments, and festive dining experiences at SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela.
