When it comes to good food, Pampangueños know best. After all, this province in North Luzon is often dubbed as the “Culinary Capital” of the Philippines. In fact, there is a push in Congress to officially declare the province as such! And so, it’s no wonder that there are many restaurants in Pampanga that will surely satisfy any craving.
So if you find yourself on an adventure up north, consider adding SM City Pampanga to your list of pit stops. Besides being the longest mall in the country, SM City Pampanga hosts a variety of great restaurants that will delight your palate.
Ikabud Pagkaing Pinoy
A picture you can taste! Ikabud’s Sisig is a medley of flavor and texture
that your tastebuds will thank you for ordering. (Image source)
We’ve featured Ikabud before as a must-try restaurant in North Luzon, and we’re saying it again: When in Pampanga, you must try Ikabud! They serve authentic Filipino dishes just the way Pinoys like them—simple, unpretentious, and packed with flavor. Sisig, a delicacy native to Pampanga, is a must-order. Their Bulanglang na Bangus is also a dish not to be missed! And since you’re in Pampanga, be sure to try unique regional dishes like Fried Itik, Fried Pugo, and Kalderetang Kambing.
Nathaniel’s
A Nathaniel’s Lomi is the perfect dish to have especially now that it’s the rainy season (Image source)
Since 1994, Nathaniel’s has been bringing homey vibes and flavorful dishes. This restaurant is synonymous with buko pandan, their specialty—their “love language,” as they like to call it. But Nathaniel’s also offers dim sum, desserts, rice meals, and snacks at pocket-friendly prices. Try their pork siomai for only PHP 90, and pair it with their puto pao at PHP 50 each. Their noodles, like the bowl of lomi for PHP 175, are also a hit. Rice meals are reasonably priced too, with nothing over PHP 300. Finish your meal with a cup of buko pandan for just PHP 60. With such flavorful dishes at affordable prices, it's no wonder Nathaniel’s is well-loved.
Dookki
2nd level, East Wing
If you're a fan of Korean cuisine or looking to try something new, Dookki is a must-visit. (Image source)
If you’re craving for something Korean, then it’s Dookki you should visit. But unlike other popular Korean restos where samgyupsal takes center stage, Dookki puts the spotlight on another well-loved Korean dish: tteokbokki. At Dookki, you can enjoy an all-you-can-eat Tteokbokki buffet where you customize your own Tteokbokki pot with a variety of ingredients and sauces. The restaurant offers a selection of over 10 types of rice cakes, an array of fish cakes, noodles, vegetables, and other add-ons to enhance your meal. The buffet also includes Korean fried chicken, crispy and flavorful, making it a perfect complement to the spicy and savory tteokbokki. Enjoy this eat-til-you-drop experience at Dookki for only PHP 499 for adults, or PHP 249 for the kiddos.
VikingsUGF/GF/FF, Building 4
Have all the steak you want here at Vikings! (Image source)
When you are hungry but don’t know what particular food or cuisine you’re looking for, then maybe it’s time to pay a visit to Vikings.Known for their vast selection and high-quality International dishes, Vikings caters to all tastes with its impressive spread. their freshly shucked oysters, a sushi and sashimi bar with various fresh fish, and a carving station offering succulent roast beef and lamb. The buffet also features a wide range of Filipino favorites, Chinese dim sum, Italian pastas, and delectable desserts such as crepes, cakes, and a chocolate fountain. For PHP 1,038 on weekdays or PHP 1,138 on weekends, dining at Vikings is truly a memorable experience.
Prime Steak House
With its sophisticated atmosphere, attentive service, and top-notch cuisine,
Prime Steak House is a must-visit when in SM City Pampanga.
Known for its expertly grilled steaks and elegant ambiance, Prime Steakhouse is a top choice whether you’re celebrating something special or just in the mood for good food. Their menu boasts a variety of high-quality cuts, including the tender Ribeye, the flavorful T-Bone, the succulent Prime NY Strip, and the house favorite Hickory Pork Rib, all cooked to perfection and served with a choice of delectable sides. Get you unlimited fill of steak for only PHP 849 per head, which already comes with two unlimited side dishes of your choice!
Granda's Sweets and DelicaciesUGF/GF/FF, Building 2
No one does Sylvannas better in Pampanga than Granda’s! (Image source)
Granda’s started in 2008, but their sylvannas and sansrival have quickly become some of the best pasalubongs from Pampanga! Like many great success stories, Granda’s began small, born out of passion. They now have a presence in key cities in Pampanga, as well as a branch in Quezon City. Before heading off to your next adventure in North Luzon, be sure to drop by Granda’s and grab a box of their sylvannas or sansrival for the road. These come in small and large sizes, and the sylvannas are also available in a chocolate flavor! Their big sansrival—crunchy cashew meringue with French buttercream—is priced at PHP 480. Meanwhile, a big box of sylvanas costs PHP 380.
And so whether you’re on the hunt for new flavors or would love to get your fill of familiar tastes, SM City Pampanga has something for everyone. Make SM City Pampanga you next culinary destination and don’t forget to bring your loved ones along for a food adventure you will surely enjoy.
Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and X to stay updated with all the latest news and happenings here at SM Supermalls. You can also check the updated entry guidelines and mall hours for 2024 here.
