7 Holy Week-Friendly Meals you can enjoy at SM

In addition to being a time for introspection and mindfulness, the Lenten season is a time for special meals with loved ones.  You don't have to give up flavor during Holy Week, whether you're avoiding meat or just in the mood for something new and filling.  SM Center Sangandaan, SM City Grand Central, and SM City Valenzuela provide a carefully chosen menu of dishes that are not just meatless but also bursting with happiness, ranging from Korean-glazed fish to hearty Filipino classics and Japanese comfort cuisine.

Here’s a delicious roundup of seven Lenten-friendly eats you’ll want to try—and maybe even keep craving beyond the season.

1. Crispy Fish and Seafood Mix Bowls at Bonchon in SM Center Sangandaan   

Who said that Lenten dinners had to be boring?  Bonchon's Crispy Fish is a delicious fillet coated in their trademark Korean glaze and served over rice.  If you're feeling a little more extravagant, the Seafood Mix is a full-fledged ocean party in a bowl.  Consider crispy fish, shrimp, squid, and nori, topped with fresh vegetables and creamy mayo.  It's like the K-Drama of Lenten dishes: dramatic, complex, and extremely delicious.

2. Sushi Platters at Kanzen Sushi Roll in SM Center Sangandaan

Sometimes all it takes is sushi to make everything great.  Kanzen's sushi platters are ideal for sharing.  These colorful bite-sized delicacies, which include Cali Maki, Kani Maki, and even Kani Sashimi, add balance to your Holy Week celebrations by combining zen, flavor, and fun.

3. Tuna Specials at Mangan in SM City Grand Central  

Looking for something indulgent but meat-free?  Mangan delivers on Kapampangan classics with a pescatarian twist.  The Crispy Tuna Tail is golden perfection, while the Sizzling Tuna Sisig delivers a powerful, spicy kick without the guilt.  If you're looking for something grilled and smokey, the Inihaw na Panga ng Tuna is ideal.  Mangan demonstrates that Filipino tradition is more than just delicious; it is incredibly soulful.

4. Comfort Classics at Nono’s in SM City Grand Central   

If you're looking for a warm and hearty Holy Week dinner, Nono's has you covered.  Their Miso-Glazed Salmon is rich but balanced, and the Red Rice appeals to any Filipino seeking a comforting meal.  Nono's combines modern flair with comforting flavors—ideal for a peaceful family lunch or a single soul-food date.

5. Squid Sisig with a Kick at Kuya J in SM City Valenzuela 

This one is for the flavor-seekers.  Kuya J's Squid Sisig combines delicate squid, a variety of spices, and a playful burst of heat.  It's crunchy, chewy, spicy, and incredibly fulfilling.  Pair it with garlic rice and a tall glass of calamansi juice for a supper that will improve your mood.

6. Grilled Salmon at Kenny Roger’s in SM City Valenzuela  

Kenny Roger's grilled salmon dish demonstrates that healthy eating does not have to be boring.  Think fire-kissed fish drizzled with lemon butter, served with your choice of sides, including their iconic corn muffin and rice.  It's a whole platter that is both comforting and nourishing.

7. Garlic Shrimp and Egg Fried Rice at Botejyu in SM City Valenzuela   

One bite of Botejyu's Garlic Shrimp transports you to Tokyo.  Served sizzling in a hot stone bowl, this dish mixes the umami of shrimp with garlicky fried rice and just the proper amount of egg.  It's rich, aromatic, and completely unforgettable—ideal for those wishing to elevate their Lenten meals.

Whether you’re craving Asian fusion, homegrown Filipino dishes, or comforting classics, SM Center Sangandaan, SM City Grand Central, and SM City Valenzuela serve up meals that let you reflect and indulge—one delicious bite at a time.