When we visited Pampanga last Sunday, we decided to have lunch at Cely’s Restaurant, a local eatery that left quite the impression. Initially, I thought this was just another simple carinderia, but as soon as we stepped inside, we were greeted with a vast array of ulam choices.
A Surprising Variety of Authentic Kapampangan Dishes
Cely’s Restaurant takes pride in offering a range of traditional Filipino dishes, many of which you don’t often see in modern restaurants. The locals have known about this gem for a long time, and after trying their food, I understand why.
One of the standout dishes I tried was the pritong palaka. It’s not every day you encounter frog meat on the menu, and here it was served with a delicious stuffing that was both savory and unique.
Another dish that caught my attention was the inadobong balut. Yes, you heard that right—balut, the infamous fertilized duck egg, cooked adobo-style. The blend of soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic gave the balut a tender, flavorful finish that surprisingly paired well with rice.
Beyond these unique offerings, they also serve classics like binuro, kaldereta, and sinigang—all of which are bursting with traditional Filipino flavors.
Beyond these unique offerings, they also serve classics like binuro, kaldereta, and sinigang—all of which are bursting with traditional Filipino flavors.
Desserts: A Sweet Finish
While we were hoping to try the famous tibok-tibok—a local Pampanga delicacy similar to maja blanca—unfortunately, it wasn't available during our visit. Instead, we opted for the leche flan, and it did not disappoint. Creamy, rich, and just the right amount of sweetness, it was the perfect way to end our hearty meal
Why You Should Visit Cely’s Restaurant
If you’re ever in Pampanga, Cely’s Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone who wants to dive into authentic Filipino cuisine. From its array of unique dishes like pritong palaka to its traditional Kapampangan offerings, it promises a dining experience that will both surprise and delight.
With options for both adventurous eaters and those seeking comfort food, Cely’s Restaurant is a true culinary gem in Pampanga, waiting to be discovered.
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