As Holy Week draws near, Filipinos across the country embrace a season of contemplation, simplicity, and spiritual pause. But just because you’re abstaining from meat doesn’t mean you have to give up flavor. In fact, this sacred stretch of the calendar might just be the perfect excuse to explore the rich and surprising world of Lenten-friendly meals—and where better to start than Bulacan’s favorite community hubs?
SM Center Pulilan, SM City Marilao, and SM City Baliwag invite you to a different kind of culinary reflection—one that fills the soul and satisfies the palate. From coastal flavors to global-inspired plates, here are five Lenten dishes worth savoring, whether you’re fasting, feasting, or just plain curious.
- Truffle Fusilli from EC Café – SM Center Pulilan
Truffle pasta during Lent? Yes, please. EC Café puts a creamy spin on simplicity with their truffle fusilli—a dish that’s elegant, earthy, and rich in all the right ways. Each forkful is a creamy embrace of truffle and al dente pasta, perfect for those slow, soul-soothing lunches you didn’t know you needed. Bonus: it pairs perfectly with a cold coffee on the side.
- Inihaw na Pusit from Gerry’s Grill – SM Center Pulilan
Few dishes capture the Filipino spirit quite like grilled squid done right—and Gerry’s Grill absolutely gets it right. Charred and smoky on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, their inihaw na pusit comes with a side of achara and a dip that feels like a warm hug. Best shared with family, this dish turns a simple seafood plate into a soulful moment.
- Garlic Shrimp and Egg Fried Rice from Botejyu – SM City Marilao
Say ‘ohayou’ to this Japanese favorite that brings the umami straight to your Lenten table. Sizzling shrimp with garlic and fluffy egg over fried rice might sound simple, but Botejyu’s execution is anything but glorious. Served in a hot stone bowl, this dish crackles with flavor and texture—a must-try for those who like their no-meat meals with a little flair.
- Squid Sisig from Kuya J’s – SM City Baliwag
If your Lenten meals are starting to feel too tame, Kuya J’s Squid Sisig will turn things up a notch. Think sizzling plate, tender squid, a fiery blend of spices, and just enough heat to keep things exciting. It’s bold, briny, and perfect with garlic rice. This isn’t just a dish—it’s a full-flavored wake-up call for your taste buds.
- Grilled Salmon Platter from Kenny Rogers Roasters – SM City Baliwag
Healthy meets hearty with Kenny Rogers’ Grilled Salmon. Served with lemon butter, rice, and your choice of sides—including their famous corn muffin—it’s a dish that brings balance and brightness to your Lenten table. Whether you’re a gym-goer or just someone seeking cleaner meals this season, this one’s a go-to.
From weekday lunches to weekend family feasts, SM malls in Bulacan have your Lenten cravings covered—no meat, no problem. These five dishes are proof that mindful eating can still be an adventure, especially when it’s shared around the table.
