Holidays are a time of celebration, family gatherings, and, of course, feasting!

With the historical and cultural ties between the Filipino and Chinese communities, Chinese New Year (CNY) is widely celebrated in the Philippines. This holiday, rich in tradition, is as much about the food as it is about entering the year with good fortune.

For Filipinos, food is more than sustenance; it’s a symbol of love, togetherness, and cultural identity. The connection between food and celebrations is a hallmark of Filipino culture, where every holiday is a chance to create cherished memories around the dining table.

With CNY just around the corner, here are eight Chinese delicacies you can enjoy during this festive occasion, from the popular rice cake to sweet tangerines.

1. Year Cake (Tikoy)

Starting off with a crowd favorite — Tikoy, or Nian Gao in Mandarin, is a sweet rice cake made from glutinous rice flour. It is a staple in CNY household celebrations in the Philippines. 

It can be enjoyed in different ways, but it is traditionally served in thin slices dipped in beaten egg and fried.

This delicacy’s round shape symbolizes success in life, reflecting a prosperous year ahead. Its sticky texture represents strong family bonds, as well as good luck "sticking" to you through the year.

2. Longevity Noodles (Pancit)

Noodles are a must-have in feasts as they symbolize long life and smooth transitions. The belief that eating noodles—specifically pancit—for long life has become deeply ingrained in Filipino culture, especially during significant life milestones.

The long strands of noodles represent the passage of time and a wish for a lengthy and prosperous life. Pancit is often served with a variety of meats, vegetables, and seasonings for added flavor and significance.